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OC Today-Dispatch MAY 8, 2026
STUBBORNLY LOCAL, EQUALLY INDEPENDENT
Decatur sports teams prepping for playoff runs — Page 92
PRICELESS
Rally boosts resort But unregistered hangers-on cause problems uptown and leave police planning to deal with it next time. — PAGE 3 BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
The Worcester County Commissioners face a packed hearing room in Snow Hill as they discuss the budget for the next fiscal year.
County: $3M turnaround Not much more than a week ago, Worcester County government officials were $3 million short between what they could do financially and what they wanted to do. And then the state stepped in with a nice surprise on property tax and health dept. funding — PAGEs 12-13
Fiori/vanVonno have their say. — PAGE 4
PSST ... 4TH STREET POST OFFICE CLOSES. PASS IT ON — PAGE 76
PAGE 2
OC Today-Dispatch
MAY 8, 2026
MAY 8, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 3
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Car enthusiasts gathered at the corner of 120th Street and Coastal Highway over the weekend during the Cruisin’ OC event. Businesses reportedly had to cease service in the area due to crowds.
Pop-up groups still hanging on during Cruisin’ OC event By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (May 8, 2026) It’s not the event, it’s the hangers-on. That’s the message the Ocean City Police Department delivered after reporting an uptick in unsanctioned car gatherings during last weekend’s spring Cruisin’ event. “The Cruisin’ OC event itself did not present any significant concerns. This event has vehicle-year restrictions for participants, and only a small percentage of our traffic stops involve vehicles that meet the requirements,” Ocean City Police Department Deputy Communications Manager Ashley Miller said Tuesday. “However, we continue to see an increase in unsanctioned gatherings involving modified vehicles and pickup trucks along Coastal Highway and in nearby business areas.” Miller said most of the issues were seen in the evening hours last weekend along Coastal Highway between 118th and 125th streets and along Baltimore Avenue between 25th and 33rd streets. Videos and pictures circulating online showed cars and trucks not associated with Cruisin’ gathering at gas stations and shopping centers in the area of 120th Street, as well as spec-
tators lining the streets with signs in hand. “This year, we saw an increase in spectator activity along sidewalks,” Miller said. “While gathering to watch the event is typical, this year included larger groups with signs and costumes that were historically seen during the pop-up rally.” Miller said police also received calls from some businesses requesting assistance when parking lots became overcrowded, creating safety concerns related to blocked fire lanes and restricted access points. At The Buzzed Word in uptown Ocean City, the store announced it was closing early Friday and Saturday due to an unsanctioned gathering in the parking lot. “So we're closing at 6pm tonight and tomorrow. Which we HATE to do,” a Facebook post from Friday reads. “But shortly you literally will not be able to access our shop.” From Thursday to Sunday, the Ocean City Police Department received 1,364 calls for service, more than what was recorded for the last four spring Cruisin’ weekends. Traffic stops, warnings and citations were also up from prior years. The department also reported 50 See CAR Page 10
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OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 4
MAY 8, 2026
Candidates talk cable project, development District 3 contenders Eric Fiori, Tim vanVonno square off in South Point forum By Brian Shane Staff Writer (May 8, 2026) A proposed cable landing station – described by critics as a data center – sparked sharp exchanges between Worcester County Commissioner Eric Fiori and challenger Tim vanVonno during a candidates forum focused on growth along the Route 611 corridor. “I'm gonna stand up for this community,” Fiori said at the April 30 debate. “I wanna make sure the (Route) 611 corridor does not get developed if I get reelected. I don't give a darn if it's Amazon. I don't care who it is. They're not gonna destroy our com-
BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
District 3 candidates Tim vanVonno, left, and Eric Fiori debate before residents at a forum hosted by the South Point Association.
a y t a D the Is s ’ r e lan o th
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munity.” Hosted by the South Point Association at the Ocean City Golf Club, the forum drew dozens of Route 611 residents, who peppered both District 3 commissioner candidates with questions about development and infrastructure. The election is a rematch of 2022, when both men were first-time candidates and Fiori won by 37 votes. While the forum touched on public safety, schools, bike access and sewer costs, the discussion repeatedly returned to development pressure along Route 611 and whether county rules can keep larger projects from reshaping the corridor. Top of mind for many was a proposal by developer Globalinx, as residents pressed both candidates for answers about a planned transat-
lantic cable landing station for Amazon Web Services near the Ocean City municipal airport. Last fall, Ocean City officials inked a separate deal with Globalinx to bring undersea cables ashore through the airport property. The proposal has raised concerns about noise, energy use, and long-term impacts. VanVonno argued that county officials should have addressed the project last year, since it had been discussed openly for months, and that it’s creating uncertainty for locals. “The real issue is, why did it get this far?” vanVonno said. “That's the concern I have and that's one of the reasons I'm running. Why are we talking about it now?” Fiori, 48, stressed that the project has not been approved at the county level, and that it could be stopped using county zoning and sewer capacity limits. Both candidates said development along Route 611 – a mostly rural road that stretches 10 miles from West Ocean City into a quiet bayfront peninsula – should be limited. Fiori said he wants to preserve the rural nature of “our gateway into AsSee CANDIDATES Page 6
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PAGE 5
OVER $56,500 MILLION IN SETTLED REAL ESTATE IN 2025 12207 Coastal Hwy. Suite D • Ocean City, MD 21842 • 410-524-1203
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6201 COASTAL HWY UNIT 806 • CALYPSO • OCEAN CITY OFFERED AT $1.8 MILLION Own the top of the world in Ocean City. Introducing the premier penthouse, Unit 806—a breathtaking 4bedroom, 3-bath direct oceanfront masterpiece. This is the Southeast corner end unit. This is the best view in the building! Enjoy sweeping, unobstructed panoramic views stretching all the way to the Boardwalk and Ferris wheel. Watch stunning sunrises over the ocean and sunsets from your private perch. MDW02037456
WATERFRONT 2 BR, 2.5 BA CONDO with BOAT SLIP
WATERFRONT 2 BR, 2.5 BA CONDO with BOAT SLIP
OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY 1-3PM
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201 S HERON DR #26B • HARBOUR CLUB OCEAN CITY • $574,900 Wow—this stunning 2BR/2.5BA waterfront condo with a deeded boat slip #31 in Harbour Club is truly one of a kind. Completely remodeled between 2022 and 2025, this home showcases modern coastal luxury throughout and is one of the largest floor plans in Harbour Club. Deeded Boat Slip #31 conveys with the sale. The condo is being sold furnished, beautifully designed in neutral tones and ready for immediate enjoyment. MDWO2035916
OCEAN BLOCK 2 BR, 2 BA CONDO
12971 INLET ISLE • LANE ESTATES AT INLET ISLE OCEAN CITY • $2,699,900
Stunning custom 5BR/5BA waterfront estate located in the prestigious Estates at Inlet Isle Lane in West Ocean City. This exceptional home offers panoramic views of the marina, bay, canal, and ocean, with unforgettable sunrises and sunsets. Boaters will love the deep-water slip accommodating up to a 42-foot boat with easy inlet access. The modern coastal exterior features clean white lines, stone accents, and striking black details. MDWO2033522
201 S HERON DR #8A HARBOUR CLUB OCEAN CITY
$499,000 Beautiful 2BR/2.5BA Harbour Club condo with deeded boat slip #9, sold fully furnished and movein ready—everything you see conveys. One of the larger floor plans in the community, this coastalstyle unit overlooks the canal with stunning sunset views over the bay and Ocean City skyline. MDWO2036148
2 BR, 2 BA CONDO with DEEDED BOAT SLIP LIFT & JET SKI LIFT
1 66TH ST #101• VINTAGE OCEAN CITY • $479,000 Stunning 2BR/2BA Condo Just One Back from the Beach! Welcome to your coastal retreat! Located on 66th Street in a desirable ocean block building, this beautifully updated condo is only steps from the sand and surf. MDWO2033508
PRIME .45 ACRES OCEAN VIEW, DE OPPORTUNITY
42 WOODLAND AVE OCEAN VIEW, DE $365,000 Prime Ocean View Opportunity: 0.45 Acres + Updated Garage - 2 Miles to Beach! Unlock the potential of this exceptional Ocean View property, perfect for investors, contractors, or those looking to build their dream coastal getaway! Situated on a spacious half-acre lot, this offering includes a detached garage that has been recently updated - ready for your vehicles, workshop, or storage needs. Garage updates include new framing, new roof, new windows and doors. While the property is being sold strictly AS-IS, providing a blank canvas for your vision, the property boasts incredible bones in an unbeatable location. Enjoy the best of Delaware coastal living with public water and public sewer already connected! Unbeatable Location: Only 2 miles to the white sands of Bethany Beach! Convenience: A short walk/golf cart ride to Harbour View Marina for boating enthusiasts. Recreation: Just 1 mile to premium golf courses. Space: Rare half-acre lot in town, offering privacy and room to expand. Bonus: Recently updated, versatile detached garage/workshop. Don't miss out on this rare chance to own a versatile, high-potential property in one of Delaware's most desirable locations. Seller's will finance up to 65% of purchase price. Schedule your viewing.
204 S HERON DR UNIT 202 G BAYWATCH II GRAND OCEAN CITY • $565,000 Beautiful 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath Condo with Deeded Boat Slip, lift & Jet Ski Lift in Baywatch II Grand Rarely available for sale, this beautiful second-floor condo in the Grand Baywatch building (with elevator) is now on the market! This spacious unit features one of the larger floor plans and includes a deeded boat slip and jet ski lifts— perfect for the boating enthusiast. MDWO2034514
PRIME WATERFRONT LOT
OCEANFRONT 1 BR CORNER CONDO
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11324 RIVER RUN LANE BERLIN, MD OFFERED AT $627,900 Stop searching—this is the ONE!! Located in the prestigious River Run Golf Club, this stunning 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath single-family home offers the ultimate relaxed lifestyle. All one level (Ranch-style living!) Spacious, modern, and incredible open floor plan! Close to Ocean City Beaches! 11324 River Run Lane Berlin MD MDWO2037276
ICE ! PR NGE A CH
ICE ! PR NGE A CH
Condo – Canal Views, Community Pool & Prime Location! This upgraded top-floor condo offers the best of both worlds—peaceful canal views and just two blocks from the beach! Sold fully furnished and move-in ready. Featuring open concept living with updated kitchen & bath, stainless appliances and storage galore. Close to Northside Park, the beach, restaurants, shops, and mini golf, this unit is the perfect coastal retreat or investment property. MDWO2033766
COMMERCIAL
SOUTHHAMPTON DR. 10312 THIRTY KNOTS LN LOT 46 • LIGHTHOUSE SOUND GLEN RIDDLE • BERLIN Prime commercial location in Selbyville of 8.4 acres. This BISHOPVILLE • $449,000 is a rare commercial development opportunity on the NOW $1,090,000
Build Your Dream Home! A rare opportunity has just become available in the prestigious Lighthouse Sound community! This expansive 20,237.00 sq ft lot - one of the largest in the neighborhood - offers the perfect setting to build your dream home. Ideally situated on the corner of Fox Ridge and Southampton Drive. Enjoy a lifestyle of luxury and leisure in a community recognized by Golf Magazine as one of the Top 100 golf courses in the country. The Links at Lighthouse Sound also features an elegant clubhouse and a highly rated restaurant - perfect for relaxing after a round of golf.
Rare Opportunity: Build Your Dream Home on a Prime Waterfront Lot! Seize the chance to create your ideal residence on this exceptional 0.73-acre waterfront lot, nestled on an expansive sandy beach within the highly sought-after gated community of Glen Riddle. Enjoy panoramic views of the Ocean City skyline, and breathtaking vistas of Turville and Hearing Creek, as well as the Assawoman Bay. Glen Riddle is an amenity-rich community. MDWO2023166
busy intersection of Lighthouse Sound Rd. (Route 54) and Hudson Rd. There are already many existing new homes surrounding this property and more than 3,200 additional homes are coming soon. This is the perfect location for a shopping center, multiple smaller retail businesses, and/or medical or other professional offices to serve these homes and the entire Selbyville, Bayside, Fenwick, Ocean City area. The Seller will finance up to 70% of the purchase price at 1 percent below the current prime lending rate for up to 5 years. The property is located 8 miles from the beach! DESU2044978
Chic Coastal Corner Retreat – Stunning Oceanfront Views in North Ocean City! Experience the ultimate coastal lifestyle in this stunning one-bedroom, one-bathroom oceanfront sanctuary. Located in the sought-after Breakwater I building on 134th St, this elevated corner unit offers the privacy and height of a second-floor condo with breathtaking, views of the ocean. Stepping inside, you are greeted by a fresh "Blue and White" designer aesthetic that perfectly mirrors the Atlantic horizon. The expanded family room serves as the heart of the home, bathed in natural light and flowing effortlessly into a charming dining area and kitchen. This turnkey gem comes fully furnished with new, high-end designer pieces and a soothing nautical palette that brings the serenity of the sea indoors. MDWO2037918
COMMERCIAL
Commercial Site in Prime Location hits the Market! 2.36 acres on the corner of RT 54 and W. Line Rd in Selbyville DE. This location is directly across from Yellowfins Restaurant and shoppingcenter on heavily traveled Rt 54. The location is approximately 3-4 miles to the beaches of Ocean City & Fenwick Island. It has water and 8' sewer main that will supply a hotel, shopping center, office complex, medical center, professional center, etc. Lot is cleared. Buy it Now Before It's SOLD!!! Owner Financing is available. MLS DESU184528
DIRECT OCEANFRONT 1 BR CONDO
13410 MADISON AVENUE NORTHWEST OCEAN CITY $585,000
Discover coastal living at its best in this beautiful 3-bedroom, 2.5bath single-family home, ideally located less than one mile from the Ocean City and Delaware beaches. Offering 1,820 square feet of living space on a 5,270 sq ft lot, this home provides the perfect combination of comfort, convenience, and beachside charm. The property features a spacious yard - perfect for kids, pets, or simply relaxing with a cold drink while enjoying the refreshing summer breezes. Inside, the home boasts numerous upgrades throughout, including a large kitchen and dining area, a welcoming family room, and a second living space that can be used as a sitting room or home office - ideal for entertaining family and friends. Enjoy the coastal lifestyle with multiple decks where you can relax and watch the boats go by. The home is within walking or biking distance to the beach, mini golf, Harpoon Hanna's, and many popular local restaurants and attractions. MDWO2036794
34862 WEST LINE RD SELBYVILLE, DE $3,900,000 32474 LIGHTHOUSE RD SELBYVILLE, DE $5,900,000
13307 WIGHT ST #101 • BREAKWATER OCEAN CITY • $435,000
3 BR, 2.5 BA HOME with NO HOA or CITY TAXES! ST JUTED! LIS
105 123RD STREET UNIT B332 JOCKEY BEACH CLUB OCEAN CITY • $258,900
PRIME WATERFRONT LOT
Experience true beachfront living in this beautifully furnished 2-bedroom, 2-bath direct oceanfront condo located on the 18th floor of the highly desirable Atlantis building. Unit 1808 offers sweeping, unobstructed views of the Atlantic—endless blue water, refreshing ocean breezes, and a front row seat to every sunrise. MLS# MDWO2037926
WATERFRONT CUSTOM 3 BR, 3.5 BA ESTATE
1 BR, 1 BA CONDO on CANAL
OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 11:30AM-1:30PM
10300 COASTAL HWY #1808 ATLANTIS • OCEAN CITY • OFFERED AT $435,000
BUILD YOUR DREAM ESTATE LOT
10168 RABBIT RIDGE LN BISHOPVILLE $199,900
OWNER FINANCING AVAIABLE!! Build Your Dream Estate on 4+ Acres in Picturesque Bishopville! Discover the perfect blend of country privacy and coastal convenience with this stunning 4.07-acre parcel in desirable Bishopville, Maryland. Featuring a mix of open, cleared land and serene, wooded areas in the back, this property is the ideal canvas for your custom dream home. Enjoy the tranquility of Eastern Shore living with plenty of room for a pool, and expansive gardens, all just a short, easy drive to Ocean City beaches and West Ocean City amenities. No builder tie-in—bring your own builder and create the life you've always wanted. Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a piece of Worcester County paradise. MDWO2036750
6803 ATLANTIC AVE #4H OCEAN CITY • $425,000 Beautiful top-floor, direct oceanfront condo just hit the market! This is one of the largest one-bedroom oceanfront condos available, located in a desirable midtown setting. The well-maintained condominium complex features an oceanfront pool, perfect for relaxing beach living. This spacious condo offers a large, private oceanfront balcony—ideal for enjoying breathtaking sunrises and cool summer ocean breezes. MDWO2035292
CUSTOM-BUILT 4 BR, 2.5 BA HOME SOLD FURNISHED
13905 LIGHTHOUSE AVE CAINE WOODS OCEAN CITY $849,900 This stunning coastal custom home, located just blocks from the beach in Caine Woods, has recently been listed and offers 4 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. Built by Piney Island Builders, the spacious home features an open floor plan with an abundance of natural light and numerous upgrades throughout. MDWO2037570
WATERFRONT 2 BR, 2 BA CONDO
COMMERCIAL
201 S HERON DRIVE UNIT 2D HERON HARBOUR ISLE OCEAN CITY
MOBILE HOME PARKS FENWICK ISLAND, DE OFFERED AT This is a prime location in sought-after Fenwick Island! This is an extremely rare opportunity to purchase C-1 commercial land in Fenwick Island DE close to the beach and Atlantic Ocean. A salty breeze carries the scent of the Atlantic Ocean as you stand on these 4 commercially zoned C1 parcels in Fenwick Island. DESU2059932
Welcome to this 2BR/2BA waterfront condo, filled with upgrades, located in Heron Harbour Isle. You will be wowed by the remodeled chef’s kitchen featuring white cabinetry, stainless appliances and upgraded countertops. The kitchen, dining & family rooms flow seamlessly with an open concept living floor plan leading to a private balcony overlooking the water, bird sanctuary & breathtaking sunsets. Relax in your spacious primary bedroom with a spalike, en-suite. The second bedroom is freshly painted with new carpeting. Enjoy resort-style amenities including tennis courts, a fitness center, clubhouse, sauna, indoor heated pool, lap pool, family pool, and a kiddie pool. This location is close to the beach, restaurants, shops, grocery stores & mini golf. Come experience the very best of coastal living! MDWO2034104
The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Real estate 2026 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are independent contractor agents and are not employees of the Company. ©2015 a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker, the Coldwell Banker logo, Coldwell Banker Previews International and the Previews logo are registered and unregistered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. 10771BALT_07/15
Vote for Me - Through May! Nancy Reither - Realtor Best Luxury Real Estate Agent
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OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 6
MAY 8, 2026
Candidates talk corridor growth
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Continued from Page 4 sateague Island” and won’t support large-scale housing complexes or commercial businesses that would require additional sewerage. VanVonno, 57, a builder and developer, said he doesn’t think there’s room for growth without more sewer capacity. He also noted many new and planned townhouse complexes were “crammed” along the corridor that “could have been prevented, that should have been looked at.” The debate shifted from data centers to infrastructure. Addressing a recent spike in utility bills, Fiori said the county for years had avoided necessary rate increases by shifting funds between accounts until surpluses were exhausted under a former administration. “When you rob Peter to pay Paul, eventually, Paul's not there anymore,” Fiori said, “and that's exactly what happened.” He pointed to a new arrangement with the Town of Ocean City to process sewage as a “ginormous relief,” saying it would save $50 million over five years. VanVonno, however, questioned whether those savings would ever reach residents and didn’t want to overpromise financial relief for ratepayers. Both candidates stood firm on preserving the county’s E-1 estate zoning for South Point. Fiori warned that a proposed shift to R-1 Residential zoning would double the density of homes allowed on the peninsula. At times, the back-and-forth moved quickly between candidates and attendees. Audience questions at times turned pointed and personal when the discussion shifted to campaign money and developer influence. One audience member challenged vanVonno on the source of his campaign funding, pointing to the number of large wooden campaign signs posted throughout the Route 611 corridor. VanVonno said many of his sign materials carried over from the 2022 race, and that his support comes from local businesses owners, not “corporate backing.” Fiori seized on the moment, arguing that his hesitation to rubberstamp development has put him at odds with builders and developers. “They hate me. And I’m glad they hate me,” he said. “If they come to me and they want a piece of agricultural land and want me to turn 611 into Sussex County, we’re going to have a very nice conversation.” Fiori and vanVonno are the only candidates on the June 23 Republican primary ballot for District 3. With no candidates from other parties, the winner will run unopposed in the Nov. 3 general election.
OC Today-Dispatch
MAY 8, 2026
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OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 8
MAY 8, 2026
LUNCH & DINNER AT DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND NORTH, 12305 COASTAL HWY. With Homemade Sodas & Other Soda Fountain Treats
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OC Today-Dispatch
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OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 10
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Car culture crowds cramp OC Continued from Page 3 arrests, 15 crashes and 48 exhibition driving violations throughout the four days. Miller said the OCPD was assisted by the Maryland State Police, Maryland Natural Resources Police and the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office. “We welcome events like Cruisin’ OC to Ocean City and remain committed to ensuring they are safe and enjoyable,” she said. “We expect all participants and spectators to follow the law and respect the community.” While attributing most of the problems to hangers-on, anecdotally, officials said the resort remained busy throughout the weekend and that the Cruisin’ event was a success. “With 4 days of favorable weather, the 36th Annual Cruisin’ Ocean City, presented by Chesapeake Classic Restorations, was a tremendous success,” the event’s organizer, Special Event Productions, said in a news release. “This nationally recognized event attracted more than 3,000 customs, hot rods, street machines, classics and more from over 25 states plus Canada, as far west as California and as far south as Florida.” Restaurateurs also talked about the business the event brought to town throughout the weekend. “We had a great turnout at 28th Street and Northside Pit & Pubs,” owner Steve Hoffman said. “Our newest location in Selbyville hit record numbers for us. We really enjoy Cruisin’ weekend and always do fabulous when they are in town.” The event’s organizer said Cruisin’ will return to Ocean City in the fall, with Endless Summer Cruisin’ set for Oct. 8-11. “Cruisin’ OC has always held safety as our number one priority,” the news release reads. “The event does not tolerate unlawful activities or the disrespect of Ocean City. Once again we
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
A spectator holds a handmade sign for cars traveling in Ocean City for the annual spring Cruisin’ event.
appreciate the support from participants, spectators and everyone in town for this event.” City Manager Terry McGean said the unsanctioned activity witnessed over the weekend will be addressed. “While the event itself and the event participants were wonderful guests, we did notice a pretty significant increase in the ‘hangers on’ vehicles and associated crowds, particularly on the north end of town versus last year,” he said in an email this week. “We did receive some complaints through our email portal but no more than we have typically received about these events in the past. The increases in the ‘hanger on’ vehicles and crowds and some of their behavior is very concerning and we will be discussing some different strategies to address that going forward.”
MAY 8, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 11
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