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JULY 9, 2021
SERVING NORTHERN WORCESTER COUNTY
FIREWORKS
SPARKLES AND BOOMS
Surprise misfire on the beach sends bombs flying high and low Sunday morning – Page 4
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Parking meter software goes into overtime Glitch, since fixed, charged customers more than once
LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY
The beach downtown and all along Ocean City was packed during the Fourth of July holiday weekend, as huge crowds descended on the resort. Even so, the number of rescues and emergency calls was not unusually high.
Fourth crowd a record breaker? Actual numbers unknown, but appearances suggest past weekend was huge By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer (July 9, 2021) Even with a bum fireworks show and one rain-soaked afternoon, Ocean City’s Fourth of July 2021 may have been the largest one in recent memory. “We had a really good weekend,” said Tom Perlozzo, the resort’s director of tourism and business development, “As far as I could see … we were packed full up and down the beach. It was good to see things were sort of back to normal.” While solid occupancy numbers
haven’t been tallied, the presence of people from sand to bay and beyond were a pretty clear indication that the resort has bounced back from the wrath of the pandemic in terms of tourism. “Obviously 2020 versus 2021, we probably doubled our numbers,” Perlozzo said. “There was some discussion beforehand that information [showed] the largest Fourth of July we’ve had in quite some time.” Susan Jones, the executive director of the Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association, said the phones were busy with people calling in with trouble finding rooms. “Most of our members either filled or came really close to filling,” she said of the lodgings. “It was extremely
strong and given the rainy forecast there were still lots of people here.” She added that on the heels of covid many business owners did not even mind all of the crowds and vehicles. “It’s really good to see all these people in town, definitely,” she said. “We’re welcoming the traffic.” And while many tourists likely hoped to watch fireworks shows Sunday night, Jones said she heard no reports of anyone picking up and leaving when an unplanned detonation led to the cancelation of the resort’s festivities. “The couple people that did respond to me, the only thing they did say was everybody was happy that nobody was really truly hurt in any major See VISITORS Page 10
By Greg Wehner Staff Writer (July 9, 2021) Visitors who left their vehicles in pay parking lots across Ocean City may need to check their bank statements, as it appears some kiosks were charging customers more than once for a single use. The city uses Flowbird to manage the kiosks at parking lots and up and down streets, where people pay to park while providing their license plate numbers. On Monday, City manager Doug Miller said, people were being charged for a single event, but then the software through Flowbird kept replicating the charge. City officials became aware of the See PARKING Page 3
Assateague mare struck and killed in hit-and-run (July 9, 2021) A four-year-old Assateague mare known as Moonshadow was apparently struck and killed by a hit-and-run driver at Assateague Island National Seashore last week. She was found dead on July 6, by a park employee in the Oceanside Campground of the park, and officials believe she was hit by a passenger vehicle week before. Both she and her foal, known by its file number, N2BHS-CKPT, were likely involved in a low-speed motor vehicle accident along Bayberry Drive. The foal is still lame, officials said, See INJURED Page 10
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JULY 9, 2021
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Parking kiosk software piles extra charges on customers Continued from Page 1 glitch that day, and by 9 p.m., they shut down the entire parking payment system. City Engineer Terry McGean said Flowbird was able to fix the glitch at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, and the system was reactivated by 5 p.m. later that day. “When we found out it was widespread, we suspended service,” he said. Apparently, there was a software upgrade done on the Flowbird processing side.” McGean said the glitch only affected certain credit card companies and how the kiosk processed the payment – but it was hit or miss. Miller said about 95 percent of the people who were charged several times may not even realize it because the software company can sometimes take days to post transactions. Miller added that he and city officials hope Flowbird can reverse the multiple charges. McGean echoed Miller. “Flowbird will be automatically crediting everybody’s credit card accounts,” McGean said. “It should be within days if it hasn’t happened yet.” Both Miller and McGean estimate the city lost between $15,000 and $20,000 during the 20 hours the kiosks were shut down. According to Miller, those who used the application from ParkMobile did not experience the glitch from Flowbird’s software; it was only those who used the kiosk. This is the second misfire by the automated payment systems used for parking in Ocean City since March. On March 26, the ParkMobile ap-
PAGE 3
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Famous Oyster Stew Fresh Local Oysters & Clams Flowbird, the software company that manages payments from kiosks located in Ocean City parking lots, experienced a software glitch on Monday that resulted in several customers being charged multiple times for a single transaction.
plication, which resort visitors use to pay for parking from their phones, experienced a mobile data breach that exposed data of 21 million people The breach exposed basic account information such as email addresses, phone numbers and vehicle nicknames, as well as license plate numbers. Information such as Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers and dates of birth were not accessed because ParkMobile does not collect them.
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JULY 9, 2021
Ocean City Today
Pyrotechnic blunder gives fans less than grand finale
PHOTO COURTESY HAL ADKINS
A fireworks display intended for the downtown section of Ocean City ignited prematurely on Sunday morning, sending bombs flying high into the air and across the beach while letting off loud whistles, alarming pops and explosive booms.
By Greg Wehner Staff Writer (July 9, 2021) Ocean City visitors expected to see bombs bursting in the air on the Fourth of July, but not so many of them all at once and not so near to the ground. That, however, was the nature of the Sunday morning mishap on the beach downtown that led to the cancellation of all fireworks shows scheduled for that evening. As of mid-week, officials were still trying to determine exactly what happened, and who would have to suffer the financial consequences. In April, the mayor and City Council agreed to hire Starfire Corporation out of St. Benedict, Pennsylvania to put on two fireworks displays, one at Northside Park on 125th Street while the other on the beach at Dorchester Street. Ocean City agreed to pay Starfire $55,000, or $27,500 per show, with the possibility of getting a contract extension to put on fireworks shows on New Year’s Eve and the Fourth of July in 2022. All that changed at approximately 10 a.m. on Sunday morning, when multiple explosions ripped through a truck carrying the fireworks for three
local shows. City Manager Doug Miller said he got a call from Hal Adkins, the director of public works for the city. Adkins asked Miller, who lives in the north end of Ocean City if he just heard the explosion. When Miller replied that he hadn’t, Adkins sent Miller a picture of the fireworks explosion – a tall plume of smoke with sparkles and an explosion inside the climbing gray cloud. Videos quickly emerged online of the fiasco, with whistles and pops being heard as the plume continued to rise. In one video, a man could be heard saying, “Welp, there goes the fireworks show.” Miller said he immediately headed downtown, and when he arrived on the scene, the fire marshal told him that Starfire was offloading fireworks displays at Northside Park at that moment and said to halt all unloading of fireworks because nobody knew what they were dealing with. The Ocean City Fire Department responded to what it was told was a car fire on the beach at Dorchester Street, while the Ocean City Police Department reported the car fire call and the fireworks explosion occurred at about the same time.
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Ocean City Today
Three fireworks displays canceled Sunday Ashley Miller, the deputy of com- members of the Ocean City and munications for the police depart- Maryland State bomb squads agreed ment said at the time that an on a course of action for the safe reemployee of the fireworks company moval and destruction of fireworks received minor injuries and refused leftover from Sunday’s mess. Visitors on the beach and Boardtransport to the hospital by Ocean City paramedics. None of the beach walk were asked by city officials to remain outside of a safety perimeter or Boardwalk patrons were injured. As a result of the explosion, an al- near the scene. Crews demolished the pyrotechready nearly 600-foot radius from the center of where the fireworks nics through small, controlled detowere supposed to be set up was ex- nations – a process that took nearly eight hours to complete. panded. “As of today, all areas of the beach While crews continued to work the and Boardwalk scene of the exhave been replosion, Ocean opened, includCity fire marshals were con- ‘We did not know what we were ing the return of service for the ducting safety dealing with. We didn’t want a B o a r d w a l k inspections at Tram,” Ocean both Northside repeat of what happened.’ City Fire Chief Park and downRichie Bowers town, when they City Manager Doug Miller said in the reinitially decided lease on Tuesto cancel the latday. ter out of an “I want to thank the Ocean City “abundance of caution.” Roughly an hour later, the fire- community, our businesses, resiworks at Northside Park were can- dents, and visitors for their patients and understanding during this unexceled, as well. Starfire was also getting ready to pected occurrence. Unsafe fireworks unload fireworks at Seacrets at 49th are not only dangerous but, in some Street for its Fourth of July celebra- cases, can be deadly. Our team of protion, and city officials ordered a stop fessionals from the Ocean City Bomb to that pyrotechnic show as well as Squad who were assisted by various they tried to figure out what hap- other city departments who did a phenomenal job ensuring that no citpened downtown. “We did not know what we were izens, visitors, or first responders dealing with,” Miller said. “We didn’t were injured.” An investigation completed by the want a repeat of what happened.” Shortly after 1 p.m., Starfire offi- Ocean City Fire Marshal’s Office on cials said they did not have time to Tuesday determined that one of the unload the fireworks at Northside fireworks being loaded discharged Park and Seacrets, and ultimately the prematurely and caused a chain reaction of fireworks to ignite. shows were canceled. The fire marshal could not deterStarfire Corporation President Audrey Jean Terrizzi did not respond to mine the exact reason for the unintended discharge but said there is no questions regarding the incident.. When the dust settled on Monday, indication of any criminal intent at
this point. “Fireworks can be a lot of fun, but we saw firsthand why it’s important to practice safety when watching or using fireworks,” Bowers said. “Although this was not the fireworks show we had all anticipated, we are fortunate that the safety perimeters and the swift actions of our town personnel prevented any serious injuries from occurring.” During a mayor and City Council meeting on Tuesday night, council members remained quiet on the matter despite having an opportunity to express concerns about what happened or to give thanks that only one person was injured in Sunday’s incident. Ocean City resident Martin Branagan did ask the council if the city was going to be held financially responsi-
ble for the fireworks. Council President Matt James told Branagan the issue was being discussed through the legal department. According to the contract between Starfire Corporation and Ocean City, $27,500 was due to the pyrotechnic company as soon an agreement was struck and delivered. The additional $27,500 was due to Starfire 15 days prior to July 4. If a dispute were to arise after the contract became official, it would be handled by arbitration in Worcester County. Still, Ocean City may not have gotten the fireworks show it expected, but it got a show that was seen around throughout the country and possibly farther, as videos and reports of the incident made the news coast-to-coast.
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JULY 9, 2021
Ocean City Today
PHOTO COURTESY STEPHANIE JONES
Jeep Week was one of several events approved by the Ocean City Council during a meeting on Tuesday night. This year, it is expected to take place from Aug. 26-29.
Cruisin’ and volleyball events approved in OC By Greg Wehner Staff Writer (July 9, 2021) The Ocean City Council approved several upcoming events during its July 6 meeting. ESA surf contest date change Laura Bren, a representative of the Eastern Surfing Association, or ESA, asked to change the date of a surf contest scheduled for Aug. 14-15 to Aug. 21-22. The reason for the change is because the East Coast Surfing Championship is scheduled to take place in Virginia Beach on the same weekend that ESA contest was expected to take
place in Ocean City. In addition to changing the date, Bren asked to change the location of the contest from 36th Street to 40th Street after some residents expressed concerns that contests primarily take place at the same place each time – at 36th Street. As part of the event change approval, the applicant was expected to pay the town an additional $50 in private event fees. Volley for TBI A representative of the 8th Volley for TBI – or Traumatic Brain Injuries – asked to hold a volleyball tourna-
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ment on the beach between 42nd and 43rd streets on Aug. 14, from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. A rain date of Aug. 15 is also listed in the request. The tournament consists of 24 teams and raises more than $100,000 for TBI research and rehabilitation at Sinai Hospital in Baltimore. The applicant asked to have four nets and three tents setup on the beach. As part of the application’s approval, the applicant is required to pay Ocean City $350 in private event fees. Jeep Week Brad Hoffman of Live Wire Media and Events was granted permission to hold Jeep Week from Aug. 26-29. The event consists of a parade of no more than 300 Jeeps on each day of the event on the beach from 29th Street to the inlet parking lot, as well as an obstacle course on the beach, just north of the pier. Hoffman asked for support from both the Beach Patrol and OCPD for the event, and is responsible for creating, maintaining, and securing the closed off beach obstacle course. He is also responsible for ensuring Jeeps leaking any type of fluid do not drive on the beach. As part of the application’s approval, the applicant is required to pay the Ocean City $3,200 in private
event fees and $3,410 in asset and support fees, totaling $6,610. Endless Summer Cruisin’ Meredith Herbert of Special Event Productions, requested permission to hold Endless Summer Cruisin’ from Octo. 7-10, while also placing holds on dates for future events on Oct. 6-9 in 2022, and Oct. 5-8 in 2023. The annual car show will feature music, automotive vendors, and exhibits in the inlet lot from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day of the event, as well as Boardwalk parades in the morning on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. The event will also feature drive-in movies on Friday and Saturday night as well as a neon car show on the north end of the inlet lot. As part of the application’s approval, Herbert and her company are expected to pay $1,175 in private event fees as well as 10 percent of the participant registration sales, inlet lot ticket sales, and inlet lot vendor space fees. In 2019, Ocean City collected $14,507 from said fees, and in 2020, it collected $16,776.50. Free State Corvette Weekend Jeffrey Givens of the Free State Corvette Club was granted approval to hold the Free State Corvette Weekend on Saturday, Oct. 16 at the inlet lot and from the lot on the Boardwalk to 26th Street. See CANCER Page 8
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JULY 9, 2021
Ocean City Today
Cancer run-walk among events to raise awareness
GREG WEHNER/OCEAN CITY TODAY
A water main break took 10 hours to fix over the weekend and shut down two northbound Coastal Highway lanes, Ocean City Public Works officials said. Eventually, Public Works personnel located a valve that had been paved over in the southbound lanes that stopped the flow of water when they turned it off.
Pipe break on Coastal Hwy fixed By Jack Chavez Staff Writer (July 9, 2021) A water main break between 43rd and 44th Streets and Coastal Highway took from 2:30 p.m. Saturday afternoon until 12:30 a.m. Sunday for Ocean City’s Public Works to repair. “We had difficulty in isolating it — or valving it off,” said Public Works Director Hal Adkins.
The break, which led to the shutdown of two northbound lanes, stemmed from a 12-inch pipe that runs east-to-west across Coastal Highway, Adkins said. “We had to expand (our radius) two blocks south and north, notify local businesses,” he continued. “Even then we couldn’t get it solved. We looked at the water main maps after … in the southbound lane there
was a valve that had been paved over by the State Highway Administration. In the southbound lane we found another water valve that had been paved over, we shut it off and the water pressure stopped. We were able to fix the main’ The break did damage the road surface on Coastal Highway, and crews were patching that area on Tuesday morning.
Continued from Page 6 The event will consist of a car show, road rally, and Boardwalk parade. As part of the event’s approval, the applicant is expected to pay Ocean City $425 in private event fees and $1,500 in asset and support fees, totaling $1,925. Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Mary Bellis, a representative of the American Cancer Society asked to hold the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5K and 1-mile fun run/walk on Saturday, Oct. 23, from 8 - 11 a.m. in the inlet parking lot and on the Boardwalk. The event helps raise money for awareness of breast cancer. In addition to the event, Bellis asked for a judges’ stand, electricity, event fencing, trash cans and cones for the event, as well as free parking for participants from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Oct. 23, as well as for volunteers who help set up on Oct. 22. As part of the event’s approval, the applicant is expected to pay Ocean City $425 in private event fees and $900 in asset and support fees, totaling $1,325.
JULY 9, 2021
PAGE 9
Ocean City Today
Internet, fire companies receive ARPA funds By Jack Chavez Staff Writer (July 9, 2021) The Worcester County Commissioners voted 6-1 on Tuesday to use about about $4.5 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) federal funds to address broadband and fire company needs. They will decide at a later date how to divide funding between the two. A little over $10 million was designated to Worcester County through ARPA. The county received about half of it in June and will receive the other half one year from now.
All of the money must be spent by the end of 2024. According to a memo from incoming Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young, the county can Weston Young only use the money for projects related to the covid-19 situation, such as recovering from a reduction in services because of revenue problems, as well as investments in infrastructure, including broadband.
The county must file periodic reports and coordinate with state and federal contacts on expenditures, similar that were in place for funding provided through the Josh Nordstrom 2020 CARES Act. “We have currently fully expended all CARES funding,” Young’s memo read. “I believe it is prudent to discuss how we intend to allocate the first half of the ARPA funding.” Project requests included deal
with water and sewer, broadband, health department, fire department, county jail and an online permitting technology. Commissioner Josh Nordstrom said that he spoke with the chief administrative officer in Caroline County, which went through a similar process with deciding on broadband providers. “They took an interesting approach to it that I think we may want to use as a template, Nordstrom said. “Instead of giving a bunch of money See HOW Page 12
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JULY 9, 2021
Ocean City Today
Visitors barely affected by Sunday’s fizzled fireworks Continued from Page 1 way and that it could have been a lot worse,” she said. “ … Everybody was certainly surprised, shocked … but we did not see cancelations or people wanting to check out early because of it.” Perlozzo also said that he did not hear any major backlash from the cancelation of the fireworks shows. “It was certainly a disappointment,
obviously, and from a public safety standpoint it was the right decision,” he said. “ … I have not heard or fielded a lot of calls about July Fourth and the fireworks being canceled.” Both Jones and Perlozzo also said that they have high hopes for tourism for the remainder of the summer. “I would say it’s going to be a really strong July and August,” Jones said. “Definitely a lot of bookings.”
LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Ocean City officials say the Fourth of July holiday weekend is one of the largest — if not the largest — in recent memory as far as the number of tourists that came into town.
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Four-year-old mare, N2BHS-CKP, Moonshadow, was found dead on July 6, and it is believed that her injuries were due to a hit-and-run automobile accident the previous week.
Injured foal remains in wild, condition will be monitored Continued from Page 1 but has improved noticeably over the past week and continues to move around with her band. The foal will remain in the wild, but park staff will continue to monitor her condition in the weeks ahead. Park officials reminded visitors to drive more slowly and with more caution along Assateague’s roads because
of roaming horses and wildlife. Since 1982, more than 30 horses have been killed by motor vehicles on the island, with about half of them occurring on the causeway near the bridge. Any road accident within the park, especially those involving wildlife, should be reported to park law enforcement at the Ranger Station.
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Ocean City Today
How divide ARPA funds next task
MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY
The Ocean City Dog Playground on 94th Street is still under construction for a series of enhancements but set for a ribbon cutting next week.
OC dog playground close to finish By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer (July 9, 2021) The dog days of summer are about to get a lot better for Ocean City canines. This week, town recreation and parks employees were putting the final touches on the new and improved dog playground on 94th Street hat has been under construction since the winter. “We are in the final stages of construction right now,” Ocean City Recreation and Parks Director Susan Petito said earlier this week. “We are hoping to be completely finished with everything by the end of this week, but, of course, anything can happen — weather can come in and push that back. But our plan is to have all the construction
phases competed by the end of the week.” With that, a ribbon cutting with staff members and city officials is planned for July 14. The enhancements to the park, which officially opened almost 13 years to the date in July 2008, include new landscaping to repair drainage issues, a dog pool and agility park, installation of artificial turf, a new pavilion and corner bench, and a concrete walkway. Petito said many of the changes will help prevent muddy conditions that have plagued the park since it opened. “When the park was first built, at least half of the park was wet all of the time because it was a drainage area for the mall,” Petito explained. “We basi-
cally didn’t have use of half of the park and it was a small enough area to begin with.” She added that enhancements were made last summer, along with other improvements over the years, to get to where they are now. “This is probably best place we’ve ever been with that park.” For dogs to go to the park, owners must buy passes. Petito said that while one-, three- and seven-day passes are available, most of the dogs and owners that go to the park are residents or homeowners with summer houses. The passes are required to ensure that all of the dogs that go to the park are vaccinated and are allowed to be around other dogs.
Continued from Page 9 … to specific companies to put it in the infrastructure, they’ve incentivized them per mile or per foot of broadband fiber they put in.” Nordstrom pointed out the strategy enabled them to bring even Comcast to the table, which in Worcester County he said has felt like an impossibility. “It means we’re paying for work that’s already been completed instead of just giving money to a company.” Commissioner Chip Bertino said that the ARPA funding is a special opportunity that does not come along in county government often before making a motion that the commissioners use the funding to address broadband and the fire companies as well. “As a body, we would determine how that would be allocated,” Bertino said. Commissioner Ted Elder agreed that broadband funding would profit most people in the county. Commissioner Jim Bunting stressed how imperative it was to get these projects funded.“We’ve been pushing this down the road for years,” Bunting said. “I think this is the most important thing we’re doing.”
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Ocean City Today
Unemployment boost sticks; OC job openings ‘numerous’ By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer (July 9, 2021) If the bumper-tobumper traffic, no vacancy signs, and maskless beachgoers huddled up on nearly every free inch of sand last holiday weekend were any indication, covid-19 is no longer a top concern for people vacationing in Ocean City. But on the service end, staff shortages still exist, and local officials are hoping that extended federal unemployment benefits are not the reason — yet the jury is still out. “There are probably going to be people who say, oh yea I’m still going to get a paycheck so why should I bother going back to work,” said Susan Jones, the executive director of the Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association, in response to news this week that the federal government will continue offering extended unemployment benefits — implemented specifically to curtail effects of the pandemic — until the fall. “And then I think there’s plenty of others who have figured out childcare, or figured out that they’re not going to get sick if they get a vaccination, so they’re ready to go to work,” Jones continued. “It definitely is not good in terms of the perception of if happening and the timing because it might encourage people to still hold their hand out.” This week, a federal judge upheld a restraining order overriding Gov. Larry Hogan’s decision to end $300 weekly Federal Unemployment Pandemic Compensation benefits, and other covid-era orders, on July 3. Hogan issued an appeal to the original order, but the federal court made its final ruling earlier this week claiming people are still struggling with the effects of the pandemic.
The benefits were initially supposed to expire in September, and under the latest ruling still will, but Hogan tried to end them early to get residents back to work in the face of staff shortages. “What we do know is that there is a labor shortage in OC as is with other areas of the country,” Nancy Schwendeman the deputy director of the Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce, said via email this week. “We see and hear it every day from our members that they simply do not have enough staff. Several businesses have had to adjust hours of operation and close either one or two days a week to be able to give the staff they do have a break.” While some business owners have said the added benefits are hindering their ability to become fully staffed, Schwendeman did not make the correlation. She said simply that the amount of open positions in Ocean City is “numerous.” “The Chamber supports all our members of different views,” she said when asked whether organization officials support the extension of the benefits, or Hogan’s decision to end them early. According to the Maryland Department of Labor, as of May, the state’s unemployment rate was 6.1 percent. The rate has gone down only slightly since December 2020, when it was at 6.8 percent. In Worcester County, the unemployment rate was 7.2 percent in May, which was down pretty significantly from December when it was 11.2 percent and the highest in the state. While still high in comparison to other counties, Worcester’s unemployment rate now falls below Prince George’s County and Baltimore city.
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Ocean City Today
Food compost plan approved By Greg Wehner Staff Writer (July 9, 2021) Ocean City Council members on Tuesday unanimously approved a contract with Ocean Compost LLC to operate a pilot program to separate, collect, transport and process food waste from five restaurants in the resort area. Appearing before the mayor and council at its meeting that night, Director of Public Works Hal Adkins recommended the program, which has no fiscal impact on the city. According to city documents, the pilot program that Ocean Compost LLC – being led by Garvey Heiderman, the owner of the Hobbit on 81st Street – will collect food waste, have it weighed at 65th Street and be compensated on a per ton basis for diverting the waste away from the overall stream of refuse and garbage that Ocean City ships out. “This per ton compensation is not ‘in addition to payments made to Covanta,’ it is ‘compensation to Ocean Compost LLC in lieu of identical per ton payments to Covanta,’” the document read. Covanta is a waste-to-energy incineration operation in Pennsylvania. Heiderman has been working on creating a composting program for years, and in 2020, he received approval from the Board of Zoning Appeals to proceed with his initiative. Working with restaurants like Mother’s Cantina, Heiderman’s goal is to have food waste be converted into compost, or organic material that can
be added to soil to help plants grow, rather than having buried or burned. Other restaurants working with Heiderman are Bonfire, Dough Roller, and Annabelle’s BBQ & Creamery. Compost is made of three key ingredients: browns — dead leaves, twigs, branches; greens — grass clippings, vegetable waste and coffee grounds; and water. It not only has excellent agricultural benefits, but also is phenomenal in preventing runoff, as it has great moisture retention. In 2018, Heiderman worked with the Go Green OC group and launched a four-week pilot program at his restaurant to collect data in preparation for a large-scale composting project. The result was nearly 2,000 pounds of waste, with every single dinner sold generating 1.23 pounds of food waste. While the pilot program Heiderman is starting only involves five businesses in Ocean City, he told the council it could be expanded at some point. But right now, they are capped at the amount of waste they can accept. “A lot of things have to happen between now and then,” Heiderman said. “Like Hal said, this is a baby step...we are only doing the picking up and hauling.” Council members praised the efforts of the restaurant owner.
Garvey Heiderman, the owner of the Hobbit restaurant on 81st Street, is working with four other restaurant owners to collect tossed food and have it converted to compost instead of being added into the waste stream.
“It’s admirable,” Councilman Frank Knight told Heiderman. “I really appreciate what you’re doing.” When it came time for a vote on whether to allow Heiderman to move forward with his program, the council voted 6-0 in favor, with Councilman Lloyd Martin absent. As part of the agreement, Councilman Tony DeLuca asked Heiderman to provide quarterly updates to the city’s Green Team on how the program is going. Heiderman agreed to do so, though added the time the team meets was not optimal. But he could make it work.
County approves 46 Berlin EDU allocations By Jack Chavez Staff Writer (July 9, 2021) The Worcester County Commissioners unanimously approved the allocation of equivalent dwelling units (EDUs) to two adjacent communities in Berlin on Tuesday, including a townhome community and a proposed 52-cabin resort. The commissioners agreed to allocate 29 EDUs to Sea Oaks Village LLC, and 17 EDUs to Shore Point
Cottage Court. West OC Properties LLC, which owns the proposed Shore Point, is developing the site at 9543 Stephen Decatur Highway, approximately 1,000 feet south of the Sunset Avenue intersection. The plans for Shore Point had previously been reviewed by the Technical Review Committee in January. The site plan proposed during a teleconference meeting called for a
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pool, deck and “beach” amenities in the center of the property. The development had to use the existing access along Stephen Decatur Highway, which a letter from State Highway Administration officials said would need to be brought to “state standard. The project also went through the Planning Commission before landing before the commissioners on Tuesday.
Sea Oaks Village townhome project, the building of which is underway, is located about 1,000 feet south of Shore Point. The commissioners previously designated site to be “residentially planned” in 2018. Both properties will connect to the Mystic Harbor Sanitation Service Area. The EDUs that the properties use are allocated from Area 1, which is north of the Ocean City Municipal Airport.
JULY 9, 2021
Ocean City Today
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Ocean City Today
Vacasa buys up 2,000 OC vacation rentals from NRT
JACK CHAVEZ/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Vacasa’s deal with NRT gives it an even bigger foothold in the Ocean City and Delmarva vacation rental home market than it had before. The company said it boasts 330 employees in the area.
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By Jack Chavez Staff Writer (July 9, 2021) Vacasa, a rental management platform, has announced its purchase of NRT Vacation Rentals in Maryland (operating as Coldwell Banker locally) on June 23. The acquisition gives Vacasa Coldwell’s inventory of 2,000 vacation homes in the Ocean City area. “Vacasa has developed a strong presence in coastal Maryland and Delaware and we’ve proven that we can earn more for homeowners while providing an elevated level of service,” Zac Monahan, Vacasa vice president of corporate development, said in a press release. “The portfolio of properties that joined us from Wyndham Vacation Rentals in Bethany Beach, Delaware, earned 26 percent more in gross rents in their first year with Vacasa compared to 2019 due to our rate optimization and channel partnerships,” “Ocean City is doing similarly well with a 9.5 percent increase in occupancy at a higher average daily rate. The beach and Boardwalk in Ocean City are among the best in the coun-
try and, with Vacasa’s marketing expertise and strong local operations, we’ll be able to deliver consistent bookings for new homeowners, employment opportunities for team members joining us and a trusted guest experience.” The rental homes are largely twoand three-bedroom condos on the beach and larger vacation homes in Ocean Pines. The company has been in the area since 2015, operating with a local team of more than 330 employees. “As the category leader, Vacasa is well-positioned to bring value to NRT Vacation Rentals’ long-standing homeowners, employees and guests,” said M. Ryan Gorman, president and CEO of Realogy Brokerage Group, in the press release. “This sale is a strategic move to further bolster the value proposition of our owned residential brokerage operations. This transaction further simplifies our core brokerage business as we continue to deliver the invaluable services that our affiliated agents have come to know and expect of a Realogy Brokerage Group company.”
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Ocean City Today
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REAL ESTATE REPORT
‘Coming Soon’ status means no more than three weeks By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer (July 9, 2021) There are a few options in our local multiple list system (MLS) for letting the public know about a property for sale. These different statuses can become confusing as they are disseminated across the different online search platforms, so here’s a breakdown to help understand when a property is available to go see and make an offer. Sellers can choose to list in a “prelisting” status known as Coming Soon. The local MLS allows this status to be used for up to 21 days. This is a way to create buzz around a property that will be available for showings soon, but property listed in Coming Soon may not be actively shown to buyers. Most Coming Soon listings will not automatically be syndicated to the major online real estate search engines such as Zillow and Realtor.com. Zillow does have the option to show Coming Soon properties, but not all agents have access to this feature so many times their site will not have the majority of Coming Soon properties that are in the MLS—so it’s a good idea to ask your local realtor to set up a search for you to get these listings. Once the listing is moved to active status, then showings may occur to the public. This is also when the Pinball • Sk keeeball Prizes • Videos
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Ocean City Today
property for sale will show up across all online platforms as “For Sale.” When a property receives an offer, and all of the contract documents are signed and delivered, a list agent/office can mark the property in either Active Under Contract status or Pending status. Usually if the Active Under Contract status is chosen, this implies that the seller is still willing to honor showings on the property, but they already have a contract in place, and any other offers would be considered as back-up offers. This status is also used because there are certain contingencies, such as home inspection, financing contingency and/or HOA/Condo doc review period. Once these contingencies have been met, the property is supposed to be put into pending status. When a property is marked in the pending status, this implies that the seller has a contract in place, and they do not wish to honor any additional showings. Sometimes there are still contingencies to be met on pending status listings. The two major online real estate search engines mark listings differently—when using Zillow, you will see properties marked with either Under Contract or Pending, and on Realtor.com, you will see either Contingent or Pending. Lauren Bunting is a licensed Associate Broker with Atlantic Shores Sotheby’s International Realty in Ocean City. OP PEN Monday thru Sun nday 12pm-10pm
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Ocean City Today
Concerns raised over county agritourism bill By Jack Chavez Staff Writer (July 9, 2021) The Worcester County Commissioners returned a proposal for agritourism legislation to a work session during their Tuesday meeting. The proposal, which was devised by the Office of Tourism and Economic Development and the Office of Development, Review and Planning, sought to create a new definition for agricultural alcohol production. “(This definition would be) more inclusive,” planning department Deputy Director Jennifer Keene told the commissioners. “It includes wineries, farm breweries, distilleries — anything you can get a state manufacturing license for on a farm. It includes this under a definition for an agritourism use.” The proposal also sought to eliminate “old definitions” of “agritainment” exceptions in the current zoning code and replace them as agritourism accessory uses. For agritourism facilities, the proposal called for a 30-percent threshold based on the size of a given farm. It would allow for activities such as “open-air events, corn mazes, hayrides, buildings of any size so we’re not nitpicking the particulars of a tasting room versus a farm event,” Keener said. “We are not recommending making changes to the commercial hosting for non-agricultural functions and events. That will remain a special exemption as it stands today (in the existing zoning code).” Commissioner Jim Bunting asked if the proposal included terminology that established what constituted a “festival.” “A festival isn’t necessarily defined,” Keener replied. “The (state of Maryland allows) for farm and alcohol production, three days for an event, or a promotional type of event. It could also be related to the farm’s activities. A dairy farm could have a dairy festival for three days (for example.)” Bunting asked how many times a given farm would be able to have a
festival in a year. “Under the current agritainment facility use, we limit it to four. Under this proposal, that cap has been eliminated,” Keener said. Keener explained that the proposal would allow for farms to offer tastings and sales of products they produce. The proposal also does not establish a limit on crowd sizes or parking regulations. Bunting asked if the proposal allows for a commercial enterprise to establish itself. Keener said the proposal does not specifically bar it from happening. “In my opinion, this weakens our agricultural districts,” Bunting said. Bunting asked Keener, as a professional, what her opinion was. “I think it gives some value for agricultural benefits,” Keener replied. “But yes, there are some commercial aspects that it opens up here.” Bunting made clear that one of his chief concerns with the proposal was that the setback requirements outlined in it were inadequate. “If there’s no limit on how many people can be (at a given festival) … your (proposed 35-feet ) setbacks are nowhere near where they need to be, to be away from another farm or property if (that farmer) is trying to do work,” Bunting said. “This whole thing is ridiculous. … I haven’t had one farmer say it’s a good idea. I don’t know why we’re weakening our agricultural zoning. We’ve put a lot of work into it over the year. I’ve put a lot of work into it. This is just opening the doors for (a slippery slope) … This is wrong, it shouldn’t be in any agricultural zone. We have plenty of commercial property in Worcester County if you need to do something like this. The only thing I really approve of is the fact that a farmer should be able to produce ethanol or that’s it. That’s the only thing I see good about this deal.” Commissioner President Joe Mitrecic said that he objected to the 30 percent threshold on farm size because it could open up the definition of agritourism events to the planning
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Agritourism includes events and activities such as weddings, festivals, wine tastings, corn mazes and petting zoos. The proposal heard by the Worcester County Commissioners sought to revamp the set of laws currently falling under the label “agritainment” in a way that would make it easier for county residents to add additional revenue to their farm businesses.
department’s interpretation. “I think we need a hard number, whether it’s 20 percent of the entire property or whatever (number we can agree on),” Mitrecic said. “I think that any time that we open your department up to interpreting what (which) part of a farm is active and what’s not, I think it opens us up to issues down the road. It could put (the planning department) in the hotspot more so than anyone else. I want this number to be (somewhere) where it doesn’t put (the department) in the middle.” Commissioner Chip Bertino agreed and asked if there’s a way to address both concerns. “This seems like it could certainly change the complexion and ambiance of the agricultural areas within our county,” Bertino said. “(It seems to me this proposal) basically takes all the regulations, everything that makes the character of our agricultural areas, what they are and what attracts people, and throws them out the win-
dow.” Bertino asked if it’s possible to refine the proposal to address those concerns. “Certainly,” Keener replied. “We currently have an agritainment definition now that essentially is the agritourism definition, but we added the agricultural alcohol production to it. It is a special exception use now. It has the same setbacks but obviously, we don’t address the 50-feet for alcohol production and it limits the festivals to four per year. You already have that in your code. Unfortunately, no one has ever taken advantage of it (before). We don’t have an existing agritainment facility (in the rural county).” “If you feel it’s not even necessary to touch that, we don’t have to. We can simply go back and refine the scope of agricultural alcohol production, which I do think we need to address, to be more inclusive of just See AGRITOURISM Page 22
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Ocean City Today
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New project to power 250K Delmarva homes (July 9, 2021) Ørsted, the offshore wind developer announced Wednesday that it has submitted a bid to the Maryland Public Service Commission to develop Skipjack Wind 2, a proposed project of up to 760 megawatts (MW). The bid is in response to the commission’s call for proposals for Round 2 offshore wind projects, through which the commission can award at least 1,200 megawatts of Offshore Wind Renewable Energy Credits. The new project will power over 250,000 Delmarva homes in the region. The company said its proposal is designed to support the successful development of Skipjack Wind 2 while also committing to significant manufacturing operations that will enable the state to establish itself as a significant player in the offshore
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wind supply chain. It also told the commission it will provide significant resources to support the development of innovative science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programming as well as comprehensive workforce training initiatives. Ørsted is currently developing Skipjack Wind 1, a 120 MW project off the Maryland-Delaware coast that is scheduled to be operational by the second quarter of 2026. The project was awarded during Maryland’s first offshore wind solicitation, commonly referred to as Round 1, in May 2017.
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farms globally including America’s first offshore wind farm, the Block Island Wind Farm. Skipjack Wind 2 will help Maryland achieve ambitious renewable energy targets established by the Clean Energy Jobs Act of 2019, which states that 50 percent of Maryland’s energy must come from renewable energy sources by 2030. In the United States, Ørsted operates the Block Island Wind Farm, America’s first offshore wind farm, and constructed the two-turbine Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind pilot project – the first turbines to be installed in federal waters.
American Medical Women’s Association and the American College of Physicians. She is board-certified in family medicine. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 302-564-0004.
host a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, July 15, at 3 p.m. “We’re ready to serve and deliver value to customers in Pocomoke City and all of Worcester County,” said Kelly Jarvis Byrnes, store manager. “At Harbor Freight, we recognize that now, more than ever, our customers depend on Harbor Freight for the tools they need to get the job done at an affordable price. We are the place for quality tools at the lowest prices for mechanics, contractors, homeowners and hobbyists— any tool user who cares about value.” The 15,400-square-foot store will stock a full selection of tools and equipment in categories including automotive, air and power tools, storage, outdoor power equipment, generators, welding supplies, shop equipment and hand tools (which come with a lifetime warranty), among others.
BUSINESS BRIEFS
Joins AGH Atlantic General Hospital and Health System welcomes Dr. Ellen Rowe, who has joined the medical staff to provide family medicine care at the organization’s West Fenwick, Delaware, primary care office alongside nurse practitioner Michael Boyle. Rowe is a native of Sussex County. She received a Bachelor of Science in interdisciplinary health serv- Ellen Rowe ices and medical ethics from St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, where she also played Division I field hockey for four years. She received a Master of Science in biomedical science from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine before starting medical school. In 2018, she graduated from St. George’s University School of Medicine, where she was president of the Women in Medicine organization and member of the Gold Humanism Honor Society. Rowe completed her family medicine residency at VCU-Riverside Regional Medical Center in Newport News, Virginia. She is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American Medical Association, the
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Skipjack Wind 1 is expected to create approximately 1,400 Maryland jobs, spur at least $200 million in Maryland economic investment, and generate enough clean energy to power 40,000 homes in the region. Ørsted will be hosting a virtual open house on July 19, at 6 p.m. to answer questions from the public about the new expanded project. Individuals interested in attending the open house are encouraged to register via this link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/skipjack-wind-virtual-open-house-tickets161923293931. Ørsted operates 28 offshore wind
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Opening soon Harbor Freight Tools will officially open its new store in Pocomoke City on Saturday, July 17 at 8 a.m. The Pocomoke City store, located at 110 Newtowne Blvd, is the 13th Harbor Freight Tools store in Maryland. The store brings approximately 2530 new jobs to the community. It will be open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. The Chamber of Commerce will
Agritourism debates continue Continued from Page 20 wineries.” Bertino then moved to “send the issue back to the drawing board.” Before the commissioners ruled on the proposal, Commissioner Ted Elder echoed setback concerns. “It’s nowhere near sufficient for a farm,” Elder said. “Like Commissioner Bunting said, there are several things here that need to be addressed. I’d like to see it (specified) a lot better than this so we can address these issues.” When Keener was asked by Commissioner Diana Purnell if her department had discussed the proposal with the Worcester County Farm Bureau, Keener replied that it had not. “Entertainment is what people are looking for in the agricultural district, (but I think you should) check the Farm Bureau to see what farmers are saying,” Purnell said. While pointing out that he understands the concerns raised by the others, Commissioner Josh Nordstorm praised what the proposal does cor-
rectly. “I’m in favor of farmers using their property to do any number of things,” Nordstrom said. “There are a lot of farmers who struggle and who, without this bill, may go out of business. They may have to close down their farms if we don’t give them the opportunity to use their property, use their facilities for agritourism and other ways to make income.” Nordstorm asked if another work session on the proposal would consider the concerns raised on Tuesday, and was told that it would. Mitrecic, however, stressed the need for a decision. “We can have work session after work session after work session but unless we’re going to give (the planning department) some idea of what we’re looking for, then there’s no sense in having another work session. I’ll tell you that now. They’re looking for answers. (If we don’t want one thing) then what do (we) want? … These are the questions that they need answered by us.”
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Ocean City grants cabbies big break on fees By Greg Wehner Staff Writer (July 9, 2021) Taxicab drivers in Ocean City were handed a break last week when the City Council approved changes to the fee structure associated with the required city-issued medallion. In June, the council agreed to reduce the taxi medallion fee from $250 to $50 and to reduce the medallion transfer fee from $1,000 to $100. In changing the fees, the council had City Solicitor Heather Stansbury and her team review amendments associated with the taxi medallions. As a result, several housekeeping measures were made to maintain consistent language throughout the document. One such change was to give revocation of medallion power to the Police Commission but now includes an appeal process before the mayor and council, similar to how other business licenses go through the city manager and the mayor and council. This, along with fees associated with the medallions can now be changed by way of resolution as well. Another change was to include the terms “taxicab” and “limousine” to the business license occupations. Council members voted 6-0 in favor of the changes on Tuesday night, with Councilman Lloyd Martin absent. There was no discussion on the matter. The decision to modify the fee struc-
ture was brought up in April but came closer to fruition in May when the Police Commission presented a favorable recommendation to do so. The commission made the changes to the medallion fee and transfer fee to reflect what the program costs the city, and the damage rideshares like Lyft and Uber have done to the value of the medallions. When the medallion program was introduced in 2010, 175 taxi medallions
were purchased for $1,500 each. In 2017, only 142 of those medallions were active, while 33 were inactive. Those that were inactive were because of things like non-payment to the city or the taxi company went out of business. As a supportive measure, the city then purchased 10 medallions at fair market value on a first come, first serve basis. Then in May 2017, the city bought 18 medallions. In early April 2021, 106 of the issued
medallions were active. To support the taxi drivers and system, the city has reduced the fees in the past. For example, the annual medallion fee was reduced at one point from $500 to $250, and the inspection fee – a requirement to drive a taxi in Ocean City – was reduced from $150 to $100. The medallion transfer fee has also been reduced over the years to a flat rate of $1,000 instead of a percentage.
Casinos contribute $67.6 million (July 9, 2021) Maryland’s six casinos combined to generate $161.5 million in gaming revenue during June 2021. The total represents an increase of $18.6 million (13 percent) compared to June 2019, when gaming revenue was just short of $142.9 million. All six casinos were closed for most of June 2020 due to the covid-19 pandemic. Casino gaming contributions to the state in June 2021 totaled $67.6 milllion an increase of $7.5 million (12.6 percent) compared to the $60 million contributed to the state in June 2019. Contributions to the Education Trust Fund (ETF) in June 2021 were $49 million.
Maryland’s six privately owned casinos offer both slot machines and table games: MGM National Harbor in Prince George’s County; Live! Casino & Hotel in Anne Arundel County; Horseshoe Casino Baltimore in Baltimore City; Ocean Downs Casino in Worcester County; Hollywood Casino Perryville in Cecil County; and Rocky Gap Casino Resort in Allegany County. The gaming revenue totals for June 2021 are as follows: MGM National Harbor (2,207 slot machines, 200 table games) $63.7 million in June 2021, an increase of $6.8 million from June 2019. Live! Casino & Hotel (3,249 slot machines, 188 table games)
$58.5 million in June 2021, an increase of $9.5 million from June 2019. Horseshoe Casino (1,341 slot machines, 137 table games) $17 million in June 2021, a decrease of $1.6 million from June 2019 Ocean Downs Casino (855 slot machines, 18 table games) $8.8 million in June 2021, an increase of almost $2 million from June 2019. Hollywood Casino (641 slot machines, 16 table games) $7.7 million in June 2021, an increase of $1.3 million from June 2019. Rocky Gap Casino (650 slot machines, 16 table games) $5.8 million in June 2021, an increase of $639,434 from June 2019.
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JULY 9, 2021
Ocean City Today
Summer Time
French Dressing Tango Mango • Skechers Lilly White • Habitat Ruby RD • Charlie B Democracy • Parsley & Sage Tribal • Jess & Jane Men’s Salt Life Hook & Tackle IZOD Jack Nicklaus 302-537-1414
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Ocean City Director of Tourism and Business Development Tom Perlozzo, right, presented anglers Brad Young and Capt. Corbin Ensor with a check for $5,000 for catching the first white marlin of the year aboard the Tunafowl in the Washington Canyon on June 13. Each year the town awards the prize to the crew that catches and releases the first white marlin of the season.
WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS BRIEFS By Jack Chavez Staff Writer (July 9, 2021) The Worcester County Commissioners discussed the following during the July 6 meeting:
Board member raise
Services to purchase a CAD-to-CAD, or computer-assisted dispatch, solution patch between Ocean City and Worcester County. Proponents for the request said that the patch is essential to enhance communication between the two entities’ 911 services. The company providing the patch quoted the project at $110,375.
The commissioners unanimously approved a resolution calling for members of various county boards to have their compensation increased from $50 per meeting to $100 per meeting. The commissioners had previThe commissioners unanimously ously agreed on the resolution during approved the replacement of piping an FY22 budget work session in May. and valves in a River Run subdivision pump station in Berlin and three pump stations in West Ocean City. The Department of Public Works estiThe commissioners unanimously mated the River Run project will cost approved a request from the Town of about $23,000 and the West Ocean Ocean City Department of Emergency City projects to cost $29,500.
Pump station valves
CAD to CAD patch
Carey Road lower speed The commissioners unanimously agreed to lower the speed limit along a stretch of Carey Road in Berlin to 35 miles per hour. Public Works conducted a survey from St. Martins Road to the railroad tracks and from Rt. 113 to the railroad tracks and found the average speeds on both stretches to be too high. The reduction will occur from Rt. 113 and 0.10 miles west of the railroad tracks.
Utility vehicle The commissioners unanimously approved the $30,000 purchase of a Toro Workman Utility vehicle by Recreation and Parks. The value of the purchase is included in the Parks FY22 budget.
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JULY 9, 2021
Ocean City Today
The annual Canoe Race, originally presented by BJ’s on the Water for 40 years, will take place on Tuesday. It will be hosted by Atlantic Beach House, which is now located in the 75th Street building previously occupied by BJ’s on the Water. ABH is adding its own twist to the occasion by partnering with the Ocean City Young Professionals Group to donate proceeds to its Christmas charity event.
Atlantic Beach House adopts Canoe Race By Jack Chavez Staff Writer (July 9, 2021) The Atlantic Beach House on 75th Street is carrying on a 40-year tradition, as it will take over hosting the Canoe Race on Tuesday. The event had been an annual staple of the former tenants of Atlantic Beach House’s restaurant building, BJ’s on the Water, drawing hundreds of participants and spectators. “It was popular demand (that led us to host the event),” Atlantic Beach
House Consultant Chris Reda said. “People were asking about it and saying they wanted to see it continue.” The canoe race is open to all adults ages 21 and over. Teams will consist of four participants – two males and two females – who will race in canoes around the island in the bay behind the restaurant. The entry fee is $100 per team. Cash prizes will be awarded, as well as prizes for best-dressed teams and
best team names. Closed-toed shoes must be worn. Free T-shirts for participants. Those who don’t preregister can sign up beginning at 9 a.m. on July 13. The races will kick off at 11 a.m. Reda said that Atlantic Beach House is adding its own twist to the race by donating proceeds to charity. “We’re partnering with the Ocean City Young Professionals Group,” Reda said. “We’re raising money for their Christmas gift-giving event.
They give out Christmas gifts for underprivileged kids in the county and do a shopping spree with them before Christmas, so that’s where the proceeds are going.” Reda said they hope to raise upwards of $5,000, but it will depend on the turnout. “We’re just excited to carry on a tradition. This is new to all of us, so we’ll see how it goes,” he said. For more information or to register, visit www.abhcanoerace.com.
NOW PLAYING CAPTAIN’S TABLE 15TH Street & Baltimore Avenue, Located in The Courtyard by Marriott 410-289-7192/7191 / Captainstableoc.com Every Friday: Phil Perdue on Piano, 5-9 p.m. COCONUTS BEACH BAR & GRILL In the Castle in the Sand Hotel 37th Street Oceanfront, Ocean City 410-289-6846 / www.castleinthesand.com July 9: Darin Engh, noon to 4 p.m.; Monkee Paw, 5-9 p.m. July 10: Kevin Poole & Joe Mama, noon to 4 p.m.; 33 RPM, 5-9 p.m. July 11: Shortcut Sunny, noon to 3 p.m.; Lauren Glick Band, 4-8 p.m. July 12: Sean Loomis, noon to 3 p.m.; Bob Wilkinson & Joe Smooth, 4-8 p.m. July 13: Keri Anthony, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; Keith White Duo, 3:30-7:30 p.m. July 14: Taylor Knox Solo, noon to 3 p.m.; The Dunehounds, 4-8 p.m. July 15: Kevin Poole Solo, noon to 3 p.m.; Decade 80, 4-8 p.m. COINS 28th Street and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100 / www.coinspub.com July 9: Full Circle Band, 8 p.m. to midnight July 10: Jim Long Live, 3-6 p.m. July 11: DJ Wax, 10 a.m. July 14: DJ Wax, 10 p.m. July 15: Funk Shue, 8 p.m. to midnight JOHNNY’S PIZZA 56th Street Bayside, Ocean City 410-723-5600 / johnnyspizzapub.com
July 15: Open Mic Night w/host Troy Hanna, 6-9 p.m. OCEAN CLUB 101st Street, Ocean City Clarion Fontainebleau Hotel 410-524-3535 / www.clarionoc.com Ocean Club July 9-10: New Censation, 7 p.m. to midnight Lenny’s Beach Bar July 9-11: First Class, 4-10 p.m. July 12-19: On The Edge, 4-10 p.m. OCEAN PINES YACHT CLUB 1 Mumfords Landing Road, Ocean Pines 410-641-7501 / www.opyachtclub.org July 9: Kaleidoscope, 6-10 p.m. July 10: Mike Hines, 6-10 p.m. July 11: Marcella, 6-10 p.m. July 15: Zander Jett, 6-10 p.m. SEACRETS 49th Street and the bay, Ocean City 410-524-4900 / www.seacrets.com July 9: Bobby O' on De Bay, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Jim Long Band, 5-9 p.m.; I&I Riddim Reggae, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.; DJ Tuff, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; DJ Davie, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.; Cherry Crush, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.; DJ Bobby-O, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m. July 10: Bobby O' on De Bay, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; DJ Tuff, noon to 1:50 a.m.; ntil Sunrise, 1-5 p.m.; I&I Riddim Reggae, 5-9 p.m.; Evolution X, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.; DJ Cruz, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.;
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DJ Bobby-O, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.; Kono Nation, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m. July 11: Bobby O' on De Bay, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Triple Rail Turn, 5-9 p.m.; I&I Riddim Reggae, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; DJ Tuff, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; DJ Davie, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.; Smashed, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m. July 12: Bobby O' on De Bay, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Full Circle, 5-9 p.m.; Rising Sun Reggae, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; DJ Tuff, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; DJ Davie, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m. July 13: Bobby O' on De Bay, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Opposite Directons, 5-9 p.m.; Bumpin Uglies, 7-10 p.m.; Rising Sun Reggae, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; DJ Tuff, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; DJ Davie, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.
July 14: Bobby O' on De Bay, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Full Circle Duo, 5-9 p.m.; Zion Reggae Band, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; DJ Cruz, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; DJ Davie, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.; Kono Nation, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m. July 15: Bobby O' on De Bay, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; John McNutt Band, 5-9 p.m.; New Direction, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; DJ Cruz, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; Go Go Gadjet, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.; DJ Tuff, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m. THE VIEW AT THE CAMBRIA HOTEL 13 St. Louis Ave., Ocean City 443-856-4158 / https://www.choicehotels.com/maryland/oceancity/cambria-hotels/md310 Every Tuesday: Karaoke, 7-11 p.m.
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Berlin partnering Bathtub Races, Second Friday events By Greg Ellison Staff Writer (July 9, 2021) After hitting pause in 2020 because of covid-19, the Berlin Bathtub Races return for their 31st edition tomorrow and piggybacks on the Second Friday monthly celebration for an evening of familyfriendly activities starting at 5 p.m. Berlin Chamber of Commerce Deputy Director Steve Frene said the dual events would provide an array of sights and sounds. “In addition to the colorful bathtubs and teams that will be here for the event, there will also be artists,” he said. Roads that will be closed from noon to 9 p.m. are Main Street between West and Jefferson streets, along with one block on Broad, Commerce and Pitt streets. “In that block, we’ll feature several artists that will have works on display and for sale,” he said. Returning to defend its 2019 bathtub race victory is Deeley Insurance Group, which edged out previous two-time winner H.T. Harrison and Sons that year. Several new contestants are on board this year, including the Bearded Men’s Society of Ocean City.
“We don’t know what their racer is going to look like,” he said. “Some of the other folks have competed before and might have made some improvements.” The late Jesse Turner, former proprietor of the Berlin Shoebox, originated the tub races in 1989 to provide a friendly competition between area merchants. “Originally, it was part of its own event, the Village Fair, and has been on a variety of dates,” he said. The highly revered bathtub races require participants to think outside the box. “You can’t go out to Wal-Mart and buy a bathtub,” he said. “There is some technology and engineering that goes into the making of a bathtub racer.” Bathtub entries run the range from functional to eye-catching. “You’ll see some that are sort of bicycles that are welded together and there are others that are platforms with wheels,” he said. Frene said mobile bathtub creations tend to fall into one of two categories. “Those that are built for show and those that are built to go,” he said. Also new this year, providing a col-
Pictured in 2019 is the winning team from Deeley Insurance Group, including Trevor Frederick pushing and Delaney Manning driving, who will return to defend its title during the 31st annual Bathtub Races in downtown Berlin on Friday.
orful distraction between tub heats is Nolah Walton, a flow artist, who employs hula-hoops and flags in movement and dance disciplines. Besides the tub competition, the Second Friday event also provides entertainment for children. “We’re also working with Worcester Youth & Family Counseling to do a kids zone,” he said. Frene said craft activities would be staged in front of Worcester Youth & Family Counseling at 124 North Main St. “They will have crafts for kids and
will also bring in a technology group from Salisbury called M4 Reactor,” he said. “They create space for people to discover and explore technology through computer and science-oriented displays.” Competitors can drop off bathtubs at the Berlin Welcome Center at 14 S. Main St between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mandatory racer check-in, vehicle inspections and a driver’s meeting begin promptly at 5:30 p.m. The Bathtub Parade, which runs between the Welcome Center and See BATHTUB page 28
Ocean City Today
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JULY 9, 2021
COMMUNITY BRIEFS
Scholarships The Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City annual awards scholarships to local graduating senior students. This year, there were also two memorial scholarships offered in honor of Kiwanians Reverend Skip McComas and Pastor Dave Herr, who both passed away. They were influential to the club and community as spiritual leaders. Much of the funds were raised during covid by the club’s now annual “Lottery Raffle” ticket sales. Students receiving scholarships are: Maeve Donahue, $2,000, Skip McComas Memorial (William & Mary University); Kellen Catrino, $2,000, Dave Herr Memorial (Salisbury University); Brooklyn Pugner, $1,000 (Washington College); Morgan Carlson, $1000 (Washington College); Lydia
Woodley, $1,000 (St. John’s University Queens Campus); Kathrine Wrench, $1,000 (West Virginia University); Rafe Parsons, $1,000 (Bridgewater College); and Evan Truitt, $1,000 (Charleston Southern University).
Awarded The General Levin Winder Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) recently sponsored the award of DAR Bronze JROTC Medals to Lanie Gladding at Pocomoke High School and Kristin Braun at Snow Hill High School. A Silver DAR Outstanding Cadet Medal was awarded to Skylar Wesche at Stephen Decatur High School. The National Society DAR authorized the award of distinctive ROTC medals in 1967 as a means of recognizing and rewarding student cadets
of outstanding ability and achievement in secondary school, junior/community college, college or university ROTC programs. Students must have demonstrated qualities of dependability and good character, adherence to military discipline, leadership ability, and a fundamental and patriotic understanding of the importance of ROTC training. The Silver Outstanding Cadet medal was added in 2013 for award to a student participating in a nonROTC, military-affiliated cadet program funded by the school or privately.
President’s List Several Worcester County residents were named to the president’s list at their respective colleges and universities. Continued on Page 29
Bathtub Races in Berlin today Continued from Page 27 Commerce Street, starts at 6 p.m. with heats will start at 6:15 p.m. Race action will take place on Main Street between Commerce and Jefferson streets. Frene thanked a host of Bathtub Race sponsors, including Bradley Atlantic Insurance Management, Taylor Bank, Berlin Auto Wash, and the Sterling Tavern. The Bathtub Races and Second Friday, which also coincided in 2019, look to stay linked for the foreseeable future. “It was a good combination and that’s why we rescheduled it for this year,” he said. “It seems to have found a home on Second Friday now.”
Dining Guide ■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$ ■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted —————————————
DOWNTOWN
South end to 28th Street ■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE 15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, inside The Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City 410-2897192, www. captainstableoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Breakfast and lunch, Wednesday through Monday, 8 a.m. to noon. Dinner and lite fare, Wednesday through Monday, 5-9 p.m. Featuring seafood, steaks and poultry. Daily chef specials. Dine in or carry out available. ■ COASTAL SALT 16th Street and the Boardwalk, Ocean City 410-973-7258, www.coastalsaltoc.com $$-$$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Enjoy and dine with the beautiful view of the ocean with Reel Eats & High Spirits. Now open 7 days a week, breakfast, lunch and dinner, 8 a.m. until close. Happy Hour, 2-5 p.m. Wonderful starters, soups, salads, lite fare, and entrees. Famous bone-in ribeye, burgers, crab cakes, tacos, thyme roasted chicken and so much more. Dine in or carry out. ■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT 28th Street Plaza and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100, www.coinspuboc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Casual dining atmosphere for families. Soups, salads, crab cakes, hand cut steaks, fresh seafood, scallops, fresh soft crabs, and specialty dishes. Happy hour daily, 2-5 p.m. with food and drink specials. Early bird daily, 3:30-5:30 p.m. with special dinner menu. Open Wednesday through Monday at noon. Closed Tuesday. Dine in or carry out. ■ CORAL REEF RESTAURANT & BAR Oceanfront and 17th St. in Holiday Inn & Suites, Ocean City 410-289-2612, www.coralreefrestaurant.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Enjoy our hearty homestyle breakfasts starting at 6:30 a.m. daily. Lunch and dinner offering light fare of soups and salads along with our house specialty Scallops St. Croix, along with ribs, Cuban pork and steak selections. ■ THE DOUGH ROLLER S. Division Street and Boardwalk 410-2893501; 3rd Street and Boardwalk 410-2892599, www.TheDoughRoller.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar An Ocean City family tradition since 1980. Offering breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Buttermilk pancakes, fresh handmade dough pizza and Italian dinners. We have something for everyone! ■ FISHTALES BAR & GRILL 21st Street and the Bay, Ocean City 410-2890990, www.ocfishtales.com $-$$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar FishTales located in a premier outdoor beach location on the bay with the best sunsets. Come for the best local fare. We offer lunch and dinner with great happy hour food and drink specials.
Kids play area too. So sit back and enjoy. ■ HARBOR WATCH 806 S. Atlantic Ave., Inlet Ocean City 410-2895121, www.harborwatchrestaurant.com $$-$$$ | Reservations | Kids’ menu | Full bar Bringing Ocean City the freshest seafood, an award-winning Raw Bar along with certified Angus Beef. Great view of the Ocean City Inlet and Assateague Island. Call for Banquet information. Hours are Friday and Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday, 1-8 p.m. ■ PHILLIPS SEAFOOD, CRAB HOUSE 21st Street, Ocean City 410-289-7747, PhillipsSeafood.com $$-$$$ | Full bar Award winning buffet open everyday at 3:30 p.m. Menu dining everyday at 4 p.m. Hooper's Island crab cakes, steamed blue crabs, steamed seafood buckets, fried chicken and much more.
MIDTOWN
29th to 90th streets ■ 32 PALM Located in The Hilton,32nd Street, Ocean City 410-289-2525, www.32palm.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Open daily, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Bar and lounge. Western Caribbean cuisine with a mix of traditional Eastern Shore favorites. ■ COCONUTS BEACH BAR & GRILL Castle in the Sand Hotel, 37th St & the Beach, Ocean City 800-552-7262, www.castleinthesand.com $-$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Beachfront open air dining in a tropical setting. Serving grilled sandwiches, specialty salads, appetizers, wraps, tacos and frozen drinks, beer and wine. Live entertainment. Happy Hour daily, 5-6 p.m. 2 for 1 drink specials. Waitress service on the beach Memorial Day thru Labor Day. Coconuts is open daily, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., weather permitting. ■ THE DOUGH ROLLER 41st Street and Coastal Highway 410-5249254; 70th Street and Coastal Highway 410524-7981, www.TheDoughRoller.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Online ordering See downtown locations for description. ■ JOHNNY’S PIZZA PUB 56th Street, Ocean City 410-723-5600, www.johnnyspizzapub.com $ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Featuring homemade pizzas, 18 gourmet pizzas, a variety of calzones, subs, burgers, sandwiches and jumbo wings with 20 different sauces. Open everyday, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Dine in, pickup, carryout and delivery. ■ LONGBOARD CAFÉ 6701 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City 443-664-5639, www.longboardcafe.net $$-$$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Classic and creative American dishes and cocktails are showcased in a festive, surf-themed setting with weekly specials. Featuring burgers, tacos, prime rib, seafood and more. Closed on Tuesday. Dine-in and curbside pick-up.
■ MARLIN MOON Located in the Double Tree Hotel, 3301 Atlantic Ave., Ocean City 410-289-1201, www.marlinmoonocmd.com $$ Open Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.to 10 p.m. Restaurant and bar with fresh seafood, small plates, desserts and cocktails. ■ PGN CRAB HOUSE 29th Street, Ocean City 410-280-8380, 410289-4083, www.pgncrabhouse.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Beer & wine Known for their famous steamed crabs. Dining in or carry out is available. Casual seasonal seafood stop for the all-you-can-eat specials. Steamed crabs, chicken and corn on the cob. You can find clams, ribs, crab cakes, seafood platters and more. You can call for daily specials. Open 7 days a week, 11 a.m. ■ RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOTT 61st Street Bayside/2nd Floor @ Bayview Bar & Grill, Ocean City 443- 664-7043 $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Bayfront dining with a casual atmosphere. Specializing in burgers, flat breads, crab cakes, shrimp burgers and full dinner specials. Open Friday and Saturday, 4-11 p.m. and Sunday, 1-9 p.m. Happy Hour Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 47p.m. ■ SEACRETS 49th Street, Ocean City 410-524-4900, www.seacrets.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Open Thursday and Friday, 4 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. with Island atmosphere. Jamaican jerk chicken, appetizers, sandwiches, paninis, pizza and fresh seafood.
UPTOWN
91st to 146th streets ■ BAHAMA’S CRABSHACK CARRY OUT & OUTLET Oceanside MD/DE Line and Coastal Highway, Fenwick 302-537-5882 Premium seafood, fat crabs by weight, sandwiches and dinners. Seafood, chicken, homemade soups, super crab cakes, steamed shrimp, fresh clams, soft crabs, scallops, oysters and snow crab claws. Open 7 days a week for carryout only. ■ BLUE FISH JAPANESE & CHINESE RESTAURANT AND SUSHI BAR 94th Street, Ocean City 410-524-3983, www.bluefishocmd.com $-$$ | Full bar Enjoy authentic Chinese and Japanese cuisine and sushi bar with beer, wine, and full cocktail bar and lounge. Dine in, take out and delivery available. Open 7 days a week. ■ HORIZONS OCEANFRONT RESTAURANT, BREAKERS PUB & LENNY’S BEACH BAR & GRILL Inside the Clarion, 101st Street, Ocean City 410-524-3535, www.clarionoc.com $-$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Serving beach-inspired dishes in our oceanfront
restaurants, Horizons and Breakers Pub. All-day menu, available 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner including light fare and steamer specials. ■ NORI 11403 Coastal Highway, Gold Coast Mall, Ocean City 443-880-6258 $$ | Reservations | Kids’ menu | Full bar Open 7 days a week, all year, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., serving lunch and dinner. Our creative menu features hand-cut steaks, grilled fish, crab cakes, sushi and sashimi. Dine in, takeout, delivery available. ■ OC STREET FOOD 11505 Coastal Highway, Gold Coast Mall, Ocean City 443-664-6322, www.ocstreetfoodmd.com Enjoy a unique variety of foods. Specializing in chicken, steak, shrimp, and lamb gyros, kabobs and skewers. Salads, subs, rolls and wraps. Homemade falafel, sides and specialty sauces. Dine in or carry out with online pickup and delivery. Open 7 days a week. ■ REEF 118 118th Street, in the Carousel, Oceanfront Hotel and Condos, Ocean City 410-524-1000, www.carouselhotel.com $-$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Oceanfront dining in a casual atmosphere. Great ambiance, salads, soups, lite fare, cocktails, drink specials and service. Enjoy chef’s specials, crab cakes, salmon, chicken caprese and shrimp scampi. Friday and Saturday is Prime Rib Dinner for $19.95. Open 7 days a week, 4-10 p.m.
WEST OCEAN CITY ■ OC CHOPSTICKS Asian Bistro 12741 Ocean Gateway, Suite 890, West Ocean City (Outlets Ocean City) 410-801-1111, www.occhopsticks.com $$ | Beer | Premium Sake Offering a wide array of authentic Chinese, Japanese and Thai food. Dine-in and carryout. Lunch specials. Dinner and lite fare. Sunday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Friday and Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
OCEAN PINES ■ CLUBHOUSE BAR AND GRILLE 100 Clubhouse Drive, Ocean Pines 410-6417222, oceanpinesgolf.org/dining $$ | Full bar With sweeping views of the 18th hole, the new Clubhouse Bar and Grille serves freshly prepared breakfast and lunch items. Full bar. Open daily, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., weather permitting. ■ OCEAN PINES YACHT CLUB 1 Mumford Landing Road, Ocean Pines 410641-7222, www.OPyachtclub.com $$-$$$ | Full bar The Ocean Pines Yacht Club offers casual coastal cuisine for lunch and dinner in a beautiful bayfront setting. Fresh seafood, signature drinks, live music and more. Open daily, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
JULY 9, 2021
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Ocean City Today
COMMUNITY BRIEFS Continued from Page 28 Earning a spot on Southern New Hampshire University’s winter 2021 list are Berlin residents Christian Davenport, Cristina Jones and Taylor Hershey. The winter term runs from January to May. Full-time students who have earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.700 and above are named to the president’s list. Also from Berlin, Ann Woll scored a spot on James Madison University’s list for the spring 2021 semester. Students who earn president’s list honors must carry at least 12 graded credit hours and earn a GPA of 3.900 or above. Woll is majoring in history.
College Park. Chetelat is among approximately 30,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation only and requires nomination and approval by a chapter. Only the top 10 percent of seniors and 7.5 percent of juniors are eligible for membership. Graduate students in the top 10 percent of the number of candidates for graduate degrees may also qualify, as do faculty, professional staff and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction.
Honors
A number of Worcester County residents were recently named to the dean’s list for the spring semester at their respective colleges. They are: Sean Vandervelden, Ocean City, East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania; requirements - 3.50 quality point average or better, enrolled fulltime; James Church, Ocean City, McDaniel College (dean’s list with honors), requirements - grade point average of 3.90 or higher, high honors for a grade point average of 3.703.89, and honors for a 3.50-3.69 grade point average; Elsa Quillin, Berlin, College of William & Mary, requirements - at least 12 credit hours and earn a 3.6 Quality Point Average;
Kai McGovern, of Berlin, class of 2022 at the University of Vermont, was inducted into the Alpha Omicron Chapter of the Xi Sigma PI National Forestry Honor Society in April, based on his outstanding academic achievement in forestry and related coursework at UVM.
Initiated Trent Chetelat of Bishopville, was recently initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society. Chetelat was initiated at University of Maryland,
Dean’s List
CHINESE | JAPANESE | THAI 94TH ST + COASTAL HWY. BAYSIDE
410-524-3983 / 3982 WWW.BLUEFISHOCMD.COM
ORDER ONLINE
OPEN 7 DAYS
DINE IN | TAKE OUT ENJOY AUTHENTIC CHINESE & JAPANESE CUISINE AND SUSHI BAR FEATURING A FULL COCKTAIL BAR & LOUNGE
Kai McGovern, Berlin, University of Vermont Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources, requirements - grade-point average of 3.0 or better, rank in the top 20 percent of their class. In addition, James Madison University students: Caroline Pasquariello, Berlin, marketing major; Corinne Krasner, Berlin, musical theatre; and Alexa Upperman, Berlin, nursing, requirements - 12 graded credit hours and earn a GPA of between 3.5 and 3.899.
Cunningham, Berlin, bachelor of arts, University of Vermont; Shuvan Shrestha, Berlin, bachelor of arts, University of Vermont; Seth Lewis, Berlin, bachelor of science, commercial real estate finance, College of Charleston; Max Bisaha, Berlin, graduated cum laude, bachelor of arts, political science, College of Charleston; Ann Woll, Berlin, degree in history, James Madison University; Whitney Van Kirk, Ocean City, degree in writing, rhetoric and technical communication, James Madison University.
Bachelor’s degrees
Master’s degrees
Worcester County residents who recently earned bachelor’s degrees from their respective colleges and universities are: Andrew S. Gottfried, Berlin, cinema, McDaniel College; James Wyatt Church, Ocean City, environmental studies, McDaniel College; Stella
Worcester County residents who recently earned master’s degrees from McDaniel College are: Amy Lauren Wright, Ocean City, school librarianship; Beau Williams, Berlin, school librarianship; and Jackson Mumford, Ocean City, teaching.
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Ocean City Today
JULY 9, 2021
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Fried oyster po-boy topped with spicy remoulade sauce By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer (July 9, 2021) Conceptual combinations are the difference between fair and fantastic. History is part of the equation for creative and successful menus. “Poor boy” sandwiches, commonly known as “po-boys,” represent the epitome of New Orleans culture. The term “poor boy” was first applied to the sandwich during the 1929 streetcar strike. Following increased heated contract negotiations, New Orleans streetcar motormen and conductors went on strike July 1, 1929. Oddly enough, wages were not the issue, the control of the workplace caused the controversy. For two weeks, crowds prevented the streetcars from being run by strikebreakers. Seeking to maintain a promise to the strikers, the owners of the Martin Brothers’ French Market and Coffee stand, ordered special rolls that were 40 inches long, and filled it with inexpensive cuts of meat. It was only a sandwich, but during this divisive time, the moral support spoke volumes. The Martins had no idea their generous act of labor would be a part of culinary history. Eventually, the name, “po-boy” displaced the older term and became a New Orleans tradition. Today, a po-boy sandwich is comprised of a fried protein such as shrimp, oysters, or soft shells. In addition, it contains a sauce, romaine lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and a loaf of French bread. Sometimes conventionalism needs a regional twist. The Eastern Shore is known for its Chesapeake oysters so needless to say oysters will be the star of this po-boy. The following recipe, a fried oyster po-boy with spicy remoulade and shavings of raw cabbage, is a smorgasbord of taste and textures. Every ingredient has been carefully chosen for the perfect bite. Following are a few tips for a mouthwatering po-boy. Generally, a dredging setup includes an egg mixture. Forgo the eggs and soak the oysters in buttermilk. The buttermilk adds a nice, subtle tang that enhances the essence of the oysters. Choose an oil that is neutral in taste and has a high smoking point. Canola and vegetable oil are good choices. Last but least do not overcook the oysters. Overcooked seafood is a sign of an inexperienced cook.
Once the oysters are done, place them on a cooling rack as opposed to a plate lined with paper towels. There is nothing worse than developing that crunchy exterior and then allowing it to rest on soggy paper towels. When the oysters have just come out of the frying pan and are on the cooling rack, add a dusting of salt. The hot surface will act as a glue and the salt will adhere to the oysters. The key to any sandwich is the ratio of meat to bread. The French loaves are too big and a hotdog roll is too small. Pepperidge Farm makes a Farmhouse Sausage Bun which is the ideal size. A spicy remoulade adds a creamy consistency and can hold its own against the raw shavings of green and red cabbage. In closing, entertaining is based on distinction and the element of surprise. A fried oyster po-boy with spicy remoulade and crisp cabbage is sure to wow your guests. Enjoy!
CROSSWORD
Spicy Remoulade Sauce 1 ¼ cups mayonnaise ¼ cup stone-ground mustard 1 tablespoon garlic powder 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon capers, drained, minced 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish 1 teaspoon favorite hot sauce ¼ to ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper ¼ teaspoon paprika 1. Using a medium sized bowl, combine all of the ingredients until fully mixed. Transfer remoulade to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use.
Fried Oysters 1 pint freshly shucked oysters 3 cups buttermilk 1 ½ cups cornmeal 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon kosher salt ½ teaspoon black pepper canola oil for frying 1. Drain the oysters and place in a small bowl. Add buttermilk and soak for 15 minutes. 2. In a pie plate, combine cornmeal, flour, salt and black pepper. Whisk until fully incorporated. 3. Heat enough oil in a large cast iron skillet to cover the oysters. The temperature of the oil should reach 350 degrees. 4. Remove oysters from the buttermilk and gently shake off excess liquid. Dredge the oysters in the cornmeal mixture, make sure the entire oyster is coated. 5. Gently lower oysters in oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3 to 4 minutes. See PO-BOY Page 31
Answers on page 32
JULY 9, 2021
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Ocean City Today
Pines Players hold general auditions between July 5-17 (July 9, 2021) The Ocean Pines Players are holding general auditions for actors, prospective actors, and singers for the upcoming season by appointment between July 5 and July 17. Locations may vary by day, but will all be in Ocean Pines. These auditions are open to everyone and are designed to be casual and fun. Depending on availability, up to four people may be scheduled to audition simultaneously, which often creates a more relaxed, creative, and informal dynamic. There is no need to prepare anything in advance. Monologs, resumes and head shots are welcome, but not required. Everyone will be asked to participate in an acting audition. Actors may also audition as singers, if desired. Casting decisions always focus as much on attitude, potential, and willingness to take direction as on experience, so beginners are encouraged to try out. To schedule an audition, contact Karen McClure at 703-727-0528. The Ocean Pines Players is a local allvolunteer 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. More information about the upcoming season and the Players can be found at www.oceanpinesplayers.com or by following the Ocean Pines Players on Facebook.
Boat safety July 12-14 in Pines (July 9, 2021) The US Coast Guard Auxiliary is offering the Maryland Basic Boating Safety Course, July 1214, at the Ocean Pines Library from 6-9 p.m. The Maryland Boating Safety Education Act requires that anyone born after July 1, 1972 must possess a Maryland Basic Boating Safety Certificate to operate a boat in the state. Those attending the class, and passing the test will receive a Maryland Boating Certificate which is NASBLA
approved and valid in all states. The cost is $20 for all three evenings. The library is located at 11107 Cathell Rd., Ocean Pines. Register or get more information by calling Barry Cohen at 410-9354807, or email CGAUXOC@gmail.com. Checks should be made payable to: USGCAUX 12-05 and mailed to: USCGAUX 12-05, P.O. Box 1682, Berlin, Maryland 21811. Payment via PayPAL is also accepted.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
‘Po-boy’ sandwich, or ‘poor boy,’ rich history discussed Continued from Page 30 Miscellaneous Pepperidge farm Farmhouse Sausage Buns, toasted ½ head small red cabbage, shredded ½ head small green cabbage, shredded Presentation Place shredded cabbage into the base of the toasted bun. Add a dollop of spicy remoulade and top with oysters. Secret Ingredient – History. “Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” – Confucius
LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY
STRAPPED IN
Caden, 16, and Jeremy Pease of Drums, Pennsylvania, prepare for liftoff on the Slingshot at Jolly Roger at the Pier.
ARS 0 YYE, M D 5 R OVE N CIT
ies! or m e M Making OCEA
68th St. Outdoor Dinosaur Course
68th St. Indoor UnderSea
136th St. Indoor Safari Course
23rd St. Outdoor Temple Of Dragons
23rd St “Temple Of Dragons”
28th St. Outdoor Renaissance 27 Hole
28th St
“Medieval Faire” OC’s Only 27 Hole Mini Golf!
136th St. Outdoor Caribbean Pirate
68th St
Dinosaurs! And Indoor UnderSea Adventure
136th St
Caribbean Pirates And Indoor Safari Village
PAGE 32
JULY 9, 2021
Ocean City Today
HOT DOG EATING CONTEST
HOROSCOPE ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, opportunities to discuss future business enterprises with interested parties arise this week. Your meticulous nature ensures you are prepared to take advantage of these chances.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Others begin to notice how articulate and charming you can be, Taurus. This is a prime time to invite friends over or to find a romantic partner if you’re single.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, even if you do not consider yourself to be an artistic person, inspiration to pursue creative endeavors comes to you this week. Try something different.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, you will be the planner for an event that brings together a number of people who share a common goal or interest this week. Conversations will be stimulating.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 You may be pushed into the public eye, Leo, and perhaps you are worried that you will not be prepared. You are a natural born leader who can impress a crowd.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Someone new and exciting comes into your life this week, Virgo. You will likely spend hours talking about your fields of interest, including exotic locations.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Unusual dreams could spark new ideas in your life, Libra. Don’t discount them as fantasy. Figure out how you can push the boundaries of your imagination.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, you have been craving social contact with new and interesting people. That is just what you will find at a neighborhood gathering this week.
GORGEFEST Fish Tales on 22nd Street, bayside, brought back its annual July 4 Hot Dog Eating Contest. Eleven contestants downed as many hot dogs as they could in 10 minutes. (Right) Nick Sokolovich of Bernville, Pennsylvania, came in first place, eating 14 hot dogs. He was presented a plaque by owner Shawn Harman and also won $1,000. (Above) Miles Gally of Rockville, left, took third with seven hot dogs, and John Ritchie from Cecil County, finished in second with eight. LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, if you feel like you have been spending too much time at work lately, it could be time to dial things back a bit. Don’t overdo it.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Crossword answers from page 30
Much of this week will be spent in the company of family and close friends, Capricorn. Lots of people rooting for you might be just what you need right now.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, you may decide to host a social event at your home over the next few days. Don’t put too much pressure on guests. See how the day unfolds.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Shake up your schedule, Pisces. Engage in something that is outside of your comfort zone. Push yourself to try new things.
July 9, 2021
33
Ocean City Today
Call 410-723-6397 Classifieds appear in Ocean City Today & Bayside Gazette each week and online at oceancitytoday.com & baysideoc.com
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED The Spinnaker Now Hiring Full-time, Seasonal
Maintenance/ Bellman
NOW HIRING!! Production Crew
HELP WANTED
BEACHSTAND JOBS. Work on the beach renting umbrellas. FT, PT, 9-5. Hourly rate plus commission. Message 410-726-0315.
NOW HIRING Seasonal Housekeepers (day & evening shifts). Apply within at the Sea Hawk Motel, 12410 Coastal Highway, OCMD.
Frog Bar and Grill now hiring Cooks, Bus Boys & Food Runners. Apply within after 9am, M-F. 221 Wicomico St., OCMD.
Apply in person 1800 Baltimore Ave. Mon-Fri, 11am-4pm
for our WOC kitchen facility Up to $17.50/hr. Apply online at: www.delmarvadd.com
HELP WANTED
Classifieds 410-723-6397
Pino’s Pizza Hiring $16/hr + Counter Tips Shifts: 11am till 4pm, and 4pm till 11pm. Cashiers, Pizzas makers and cashiers. 4-6 days a week. To enquire about job, walk-in ONLY between Noon and 10pm daily except Mondays. 81st Plaza. See at PinosOC.com
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Part-time position in law office. Proficient computer skills, Word Perfect, Dictaphone, telephone and light bookkeeping required. Familiarity with E-filing a plus, but will train. Please respond by sending resume to P.O. Box 56, Ocean City, MD 21843
Med Tech. CPR, first aide certified. Must be able to pass background check. Drug free facility. Full time position and every other weekend. Email resume to truittsandy@yahoo.com or call 443-880-7341.
Sun N’ Fun Motel Now Hiring • Evening shift, 4pm-12am, Desk Clerks • Day shift Housekeeping Apply in person 29th St., Baltimore Ave. Mon-Fri, 9-3pm
by Monday 5 p.m. HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
Thunderbird Beach Motel Now Hiring • FT Night Audit • PM Houseman/ Maintenance Apply in person 32nd St., Baltimore Ave. Mon-Fri, 9-3pm
Hiring ALL Positions!! Full time & Part time Fenwick and Selbyville Locations To apply go to: www.mygcjob.com
www.baysideoc.com www.oceancitytoday.com
NOW HIRING BARTENDERS & SERVERS
Call Johnny @ 443-880-2486 or Pam @ 410-726-7061 for interview or apply within 5601 Coastal Hwy., OCMD
HIRING ALL POSITIONS!! Starting wages are $13.50-$15.00 depending on experience. Full time & Part time Stop by our location on 52nd Street or call 443-664-2825
OCMD JOB FAIR
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HOLIDAY INN OCEANFRONT CONFERENCE CENTER at 67th St. on Coastal Hwy. WEDNESDAY DAY, JULY 14, 2021 D 10:00am - 2:00pm
Position s itio ns innclude ude... Gu r D k Hilton
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1701 Atlantic Ave
6600 Coastal Hwy
410-289-1234 410-289-7263 410-524-1600
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Appl pp ly onli nline: https://apply.jobappnetwork.com/harrison-group Vis it: ocmdhotels.com annd clic Visit lick Employmen mp lo yment Lin Link at botto b o tto m o f pag age Emai mail
jobs@harrisongp.com
Harrison Group Hotel & Restaurant Group | 410-289-4444
www.oceancitytoday.com Order YOur Classifieds Online!
• • • •
Convenient Quick No Waiting, No Calls Days, Nights & Weekends
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Ocean City Today
JULY 9, 2021
JULY 9, 2021
PAGE 35
Ocean City Today
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
RENTALS
DONATIONS
YARD SALES
PGN Crabhouse 29th Street & Coastal Hwy. Now Hiring for • Waitstaff • Kitchen Help Apply within after 11:00 am
SEASONAL & YEAR ROUND POSITIONS for immediate hire, sign-on bonuses! Bethany Beach (20 minutes from OC). More info and to apply: vacasa.com/careers
PAPA JOHN’S Now hiring ALL POSITIONS for the Ocean City area. Ask for Mary 410-524-1300
Seeking Year-Round & Seasonal Rentals! Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555
Do you have an old bicycle not being used? It could mean a world of difference to a hard-working international student. We are looking to get as many bikes as possible. Your donation will be taxdeductible. Contact Gary at 443-975-3065.
Large Yard Sale and Part Estate Sale that you do not want to miss!!!! Lots of great items!!!! Come see us on Sat., July 10th at 11934 Ocean Gateway (adjacent to the Sherwin Williams) starting at 7:30 in the morning.
Cleaners Wanted for OC If you are a conscientious individual or team looking for great hours and pay on the weekends ... then we are the cleaning company for you. Exp. preferred. Cell phone and vehicle required. 443-880-0525
Now hiring full-time positions for Front Desk, Maintenance, Housekeeping & Housemen. Apply within Comfort Suites, 12718 Ocean Gateway (Rte. 50) Ocean City, MD (WOC). 410-213-7171.
The Spinnaker Now Hiring Full-time, Seasonal
Housekeepers Good Pay! Monthly Bonuses Apply in person 1800 Baltimore Ave. Mon-Fri, 11am-4pm
www.oceancitytoday.com
Hiring Cooks (up to $18), Security ($14), EMTs, Audio/Video Techs, Office Receptionists, Boutique Associates, Distillery Tour Guides, Expeditors, Servers, Cashiers, Food Runners, Hosts, Groundskeeping, Bartenders, Barbacks, Prep Kitchen, Maintenance Staff, Head Distiller, Painter, & Carpenter. Apply in person or online at seacrets.com
AUTOMOTIVE GREAT-GREAT-GREAT OPPORTUNITES! Technicians - Up to $1000 Sign on Bonus! We are part of a large automotive group with parts stores, service centers and used car dealership. Fast paced, energetic atmosphere with advancement opportunities! We have locations in the Rehoboth, Bethany and Ocean City areas. We are now hiring for: - Technicians - Up to $1000 Sign On Bonus & Tool Allowance for qualified technicians - Tow Truck Drivers - Service Advisors - Tire & Lube Techs - Auto Parts Associates / Advisors - Car Salesman / Detailer Excellent pay & benefits including company matched retirement plan, vacation, holiday pay, health insurance, discounts and much more!! Call Matt, 302-344-9846
Become a Better You in 2021! To Order Product Call Christine 443-880-8397 or email: snowhillavon@ comcast.net To Become an Avon Representative Sign Up at www. ChristinesBeautyShop.com
RAMBLER MOTEL 9942 Elm Street, WOC Sleeps 4, $250 per week Manager onsite 410-213-1764
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Food & Beverage Manager We are currently recruiting an experienced Food & Beverage Manager to work under our Food & Beverage Director. Responsibilities include overseeing and being responsible for our busy restaurants, bars & conference center. The candidate should have excellent communication and problem-solving skills along with the ability to train employees. Must have strong management experience in a large restaurant, banquet and/or convention services experience. Must be able to work a flexible schedule including weekends and holidays. Excellent salary and benefits package. Send resume and salary requirements to: lwatson@clarionoc.com.
Employment Opportunities: Full Time, Year Round: Night Audit, Executive Assistant, Housekeeping Supervisor, Painter, Room Attendant, Front Desk Agent, Maintenance Seasonal: Security, Grill Cooks, Servers, Bartender, Hostess/Host, Busser, Food Runners, Beach Stand, Pool Attendant, Warehouse Clerk
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Grill Chef We are hiring a working Chef / Grill Supervisor for our beautiful ocean front beach bar and grill. Successful candidate must have a minimum of three years hands-on kitchen supervisory experience in a high volume restaurant and excellent employment references. We offer excellent benefits and salary (commensurate with experience). Housing available. Qualified applicants, forward resume with salary requirements to: lwatson@clarionoc.com.
PAGE 36
JULY 9, 2021
Ocean City Today
CLASSIFIED AD NETWORK Serving the Newspapers of Maryland, Delaware and the District of Columbia since 1908.
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Ocean City Today
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PAGE 38
Ocean City Today / Public Notices
NOTICE
OF PASSAGE OF BILL 21-3 WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Take Notice that Bill 21-3 (Public Safety – Animal Control) was passed by Commissioners Bertino, Bunting, Church, Elder, Mitrecic, Nordstrom and Purnell on June 15, 2021. A fair summary of the bill is as follows: § PS 2-101(b). (Adds the definition for “breeder” in the Public Safety Article to describe the ownership of six or more intact female dogs and establishes a maximum limit on the sale of puppies or kittens of three litters per calendar year.) § PS 2-101(b). (Adds the definition for “commercial” in the Public Safety Article to describe an activity where the intent is to make a profit, regardless of the form of compensation.) § PS 2-101(b). (Revises the definition for “dog” in the Public Safety Article to include a cross-breed with a wolf.) § PS 2-101(b). (Adds the definition for “kennel, commercial” in the Public Safety Article to describe an establishment that boards, breeds, treats, sells, rents, trains or exhibits more than five dogs or cats, other than a licensed veterinary hospital or office; establishes an exception for the ownership of no more than eight dogs or cats for personal use or companionship, hunting, exhibition, field working, or obedience trials, and establishes a maximum limit on the sale of puppies or kittens from two litters per calendar year.) § PS 2-101(b). (Adds the definition for “kennel, shelter” in the Public Safety Article to describe the structure, building, enclosure or run that is designed for the shelter or keeping of an animal.) § PS 2-101(b). (Revises the definition for “leash” in the Public Safety Article for stylistic changes.) § PS 2-101(b). (Adds the definition for “litter” in the Public Safety Article to describe the single birth of multiple animals to one female animal.) § PS 2-101(b). (Eliminates the definition for “suitable shelter” in the Public Safety Article as it is further defined in § PS 2-101(w).) § PS 2-101(i). (Revises the stray hold time from ten days to three business days.) § PS 2-101(v). (Establishes certain conditions in which the tethering of an animal is prohibited.) § PS 2-101(w). (Makes certain stylistic changes, and establishes additional requirements for suitable shelters.) § PS 2-101(x). (Differentiates a shelter kennel from a suitable shelter, establishes standards for a shelter kennel and simplifies the calculation for the amount of square feet required in a shelter kennel per dog or cat.) § PS 2-102(h). (Clarifies that a commercial kennel is subject to a commercial kennel license; provides that licenses shall not be transferrable; updates the record keeping requirements for a commercial kennel license holder; establishes minimum standards of care for puppies
and kittens associated with a breeder.) § PS 2-102(l). (Establishes a provision for the County Commissioners to adopt additional standards by resolution.) § PS 2-102(m). (Establishes what constitutes a violation, and the penalties and remedies available.) This bill becomes effective fortyfive (45) days from the date of its passage. This is only a fair summary of the bill. A full copy of the bill is posted on the Legislative Bulletin Board in the main hall of the Worcester County Government Center outside Room 1103., is available for public inspection in Room 1103 of the Worcester County Government Center and is available on the County Website at www.co.worcester.md.us. THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OCD-6/24/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF PASSAGE OF BILL 21-4 WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Take Notice that Bill 21-4 (Zoning – Commercial kennel) was passed by Commissioners Bertino, Bunting, Church, Elder, Mitrecic, Nordstrom and Purnell on June 15, 2021. A fair summary of the bill is as follows: § ZS 1-103(b). (Adds the definition for “breeder” in the Zoning and Subdivision Control Article to describe the ownership of six or more intact female dogs and establishes a maximum limit on the sale of puppies or kittens of three litters per calendar year.) § ZS 1-103(b). (Adds the definition for “cat” in the Zoning and Subdivision Control Article to describe the common house cat.) § ZS 1-103(b). (Adds the definition for “dog” in the Zoning and Subdivision Control Article to describe the domestic dog, and to include a crossbreed with a wolf.) § ZS 1-103(b). (Adds the definition for “kennel, commercial” in the Zoning and Subdivision Control Article to describe an establishment that boards, breeds, treats, sells, rents, trains or exhibits more than five dogs or cats, other than a licensed veterinary hospital or office; establishes an exception for the ownership of no more than eight dogs or cats for personal use or companionship, hunting, exhibition, field working, or obedience trials, and establishes a maximum limit on the sale of puppies or kittens from two litters per calendar year.) § ZS 1-103(b). (Adds the definition for “litter” in the Zoning and Subdivision Control Article to describe the single birth of multiple animals to one female animal.) § ZS 1-201(c)(31). (Repeals and reenacts this special exception use for a kennel in order to replace it with the newly defined commercial kennel in the A-1 Agricultural District.) § ZS 1-202(c)(15). (Repeals and reenacts this special exception use for a kennel in order to replace it with the newly defined commercial
kennel in the A-2 Agricultural District.) § ZS 1-209(c)(4). (Repeals and reenacts this special exception use for a kennel in order to replace it with the newly defined commercial kennel in the C-1 Neighborhood Commercial District.) § ZS 1-339(a)(11). (Repeals and reenacts the section of the home occupation regulations containing the list of uses that are prohibited by replacing the kennel use with the newly defined commercial kennel.) This bill becomes effective fortyfive (45) days from the date of its passage. This is only a fair summary of the bill. A full copy of the bill is posted on the Legislative Bulletin Board in the main hall of the Worcester County Government Center outside Room 1103., is available for public inspection in Room 1103 of the Worcester County Government Center and is available on the County Website at www.co.worcester.md.us. THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OCD-6/24/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF PASSAGE OF BILL 21-5 WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Take Notice that Bill 21-5 (Zoning – Off-premises signs) was passed by Commissioners Bertino, Bunting, Church, Elder, Mitrecic, Nordstrom and Purnell on June 15, 2021. A fair summary of the bill is as follows: § ZS 1 324(d)(4)A. (Repeals and reenacts the off-premise sign provisions to eliminate the exception that a billboard that is totally destroyed by a force of nature may not be reconstructed as a nonconforming sign.) § ZS 1 324(d)(5). (Repeals the prohibition on the reconstruction of billboards or other off-premise advertising structures that are destroyed to certain specified extents by a force of nature; requires that the reconstruction of a billboard be limited to in-kind materials and shall not include an electronic messaging component.) § ZS 1-126(e). (Repeals and reenacts the grandfathering provisions for billboards to remove the reference to § ZS 1-324(d)(5), which is to be repealed, and update the State of Maryland code citation.) This bill becomes effective fortyfive (45) days from the date of its passage. This is only a fair summary of the bill. A full copy of the bill is posted on the Legislative Bulletin Board in the main hall of the Worcester County Government Center outside Room 1103., is available for public inspection in Room 1103 of the Worcester County Government Center and is available on the County Website at www.co.worcester.md.us. THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OCD-6/24/3t _________________________________ REGAN J. R. SMITH ESQ WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON LLP
JULY 9, 2021 3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 18795 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF CONSTANTINE A. ANTHONY Notice is given that Byron A. Anthony, 13003 Old Bridge Road, Ocean City, MD 21842 and Ronald D. Anthony, 3 Harnel Court, Baldwin, MD 21013, were on June 21, 2021 appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Constantine A. Anthony who died on November 22, 2020, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 21st day of December, 2021. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. Byron A. Anthony Ronald D. Anthony Personal Representatives True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: June 24, 2021 OCD-6/24/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 18783 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ARTHUR L. PIERCE Notice is given that Shonda Suggs, P.O. Box 287, Snow Hill, MD 21863, was on June 23, 2021 appointed Personal Representative of
JULY 9, 2021 the estate of Arthur L. Pierce who died on June 5, 2021, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 23rd day of December, 2021. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. Shonda Suggs Personal Representative True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: July 01, 2021 OCD-7/1/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF PUBLIC HEARING BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS TOWN OF OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110 of the Code of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Zoning Ordinance for Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted by the Board of Zoning Appeals for Ocean City, Maryland in the Council Chambers of City Hall located on Baltimore Avenue and Third Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on: Thursday, July 22, 2021 at 6:00 P.M. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers, of the Code, an appeal has been filed pursuant to
PAGE 39
Ocean City Today / Public Notices the provisions of Section 110-94(3)(a) requesting a special yard exception to expand the legally existing side yard nonconforming use area in a manner that currently exists on the same lot, not by lot coverage or footprint, but vertically, to add approximately +/- 900 gross square feet of open, unenclosed, outdoor dining area on the newly proposed third floor. The site of the appeal is zoned LC-1, Local Commercial, Zoning District, and described as several unnumbered lots of Parcel 3204 of the Embers North Plat, dated 1968; further described as located on the western side of Philadelphia Avenue, and known locally as The Embers Restaurant, 2305 Philadelphia Avenue, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. APPLICANT: EMBERS, LLC C/O HUGH CROPPER, IV, ESQ. - (BZA 2597 #21-09400007) at 6:10 P.M. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers, of the Code, an appeal has been filed pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-94(3)(c) requesting a special yard exception to construct a new single-family dwelling on a corner lot with a front yard setback of 10’ on Caribbean Drive as established by the legally existing front yard setback at 9004 Caribbean Drive instead of 20’ as required by Code Section 110-276(4). The site of the appeal is zoned R-1, Single-Family Residential, Zoning District, and described as Lot 36, Block 1 of the Oceanbay City Plat; further described as located on the northeast corner of Pacific Avenue and Caribbean Drive, and known locally as 9000 Caribbean Drive, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. APPLICANT: MICHAEL B. & ANNA S. BELL - (BZA 2598 #2109400008) at 6:20 P.M. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers, of the Code, an appeal has been filed pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-94(3)(a) requesting a special rear yard exception similar to the existing side yard setback of 0.1’ to construct a new single-family dwelling with a rear yard setback of 0.3’ in the northeast corner of the site instead of 5’ as required by Code Section 110-423(1)i. The site of the appeal is zoned MH, Mobile Home, Zoning District, and described as Lot 10B of the Warren’s Park Co-op Plat; further described as located on the north side of Middle Way Lane, and known locally as 38 Middle Way Lane, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. APPLICANT: JAMES R. WILLIAMS - (BZA 2599 #2109400009) at 6:30 P.M. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers, of the Code, an appeal has been filed pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-94(5) requesting a special use exception to allow outdoor display of merchandise incidental to the on-premise use. The site of the appeal is described as Lot 1, Block 116, of the Isle of Wight Plat, further described as located on the west side of Coastal Highway on the north side of 67th Street, and locally known as the Kite Loft, 6701 Coastal Highway Unit 13,
in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. APPLICANT: KITE LOFT – (BZA 2600 #21-09400010) Further information concerning the public hearings may be examined in the office of the Department of Planning and Community Development in City Hall. Alfred Harrison, Chairman Maureen Howarth, Attorney OCD-7/8/2t _________________________________
There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: July 21, 2021 @ 1:00 P.M. The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party. OCD-7/8/2t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Transfer of a Class: "A" BEER-WINE License: 7 Day, By: Kristie Leigh Williams, 27 Burley Street, Berlin, Maryland 21811; Heather Ann Layton, 122 Cedar Avenue, Berlin, Maryland 21811. For: OC Organics, LLC For the premises known as and located at: T/A: Ocean City Organics 11944 Ocean Gateway, Suite C Ocean City, Maryland 21842 Formerly: Ocean City Organic, Inc. Formerly: Three Anchors, LLC There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: July 21, 2021 @ 1:10 P.M. The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party. OCD-7/8/2t _________________________________
OF PUBLIC HEARING WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF LICENSE COMMISSIONERS JULY 21, 2021 – 1:30 P.M. The WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF LICENSE COMMISSIONERS (the “Board”) will hold a public hearing in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland concerning Maryland House Bill 12 and Senate Bill 205 signed by the Governor on May 18, 2021 permitting local licensing boards to authorize the sale of alcohol beverages by Class B and D (BW) and (BWL) license holders for carry out and delivery only with prepared food other than prepackaged snacks. Maryland House Bill 12 and Senate Bill 205 require the Board to make a finding of fact as set forth below. IN CONSIDERING WHETHER TO ADOPT REGULATIONS FOR THE SALE AND CARRYOUT OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, A LOCAL LICENSING BOARD SHALL WEIGH THE NEED TO PROMOTE THE ECONOMIC RECOVERY OF DIFFERENT CATEGORIES OF SMALL BUSINESSES IN THE WAKE OF THE COVID–19 PANDEMIC AND THE NEED TO PROTECT PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE. If the Regulation is adopted a licensee shall request a letter of authorization from the Board to sell alcohol for carry-out or delivery only with prepared food other than prepackaged snacks subject to the restrictions set forth in Maryland House Bill 12 and Senate Bill 205 and such other restrictions set forth by the Board. If adopted, this Regulation and any Letter of Authorization issued hereunder shall expire June 30, 2023 and shall be subject to such other rules and regulations as are consistent with State Law. OCD-7/8/2t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Transfer of a Class: "B" BEER-WINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Ryan Wayne James, 10128 Blue Marlin Drive, Ocean City, Maryland 21842. For: James Family Hospitality Group, LLC For the premises known as and located at: T/A: Mother's Cantina 7805 Coastal Highway Ocean City, Maryland 21842 Formerly: Three Anchors, LLC
NOTICE
SMALL ESTATE
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18806 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF GEORGE HANNAWAY Notice is given that Michael Watson, 19640 Old Landing Road, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971, was on June 29, 2021 appointed personal representative of the small estate of George Hannaway who died on June 12, 2021, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
PAGE 40 (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Michael Watson Personal Representative True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication:
Ocean City Today / Public Notices July 08, 2021 OCD-7/8/1t _________________________________ SMALL ESTATE
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18808 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MARGARET J. PINDELL Notice is given that James Jonathan Driggers, 2 Cape May Place, Ocean Pines, MD 21811, was on June 30, 2021 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Margaret J. Pindell who died on April 14, 2021, without a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this
JULY 9, 2021 published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. James Jonathan Driggers Personal Representative True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: July 8, 2021 OCD-7/8/1t _________________________________
Commentary
Ocean City Today July 9, 2021
Page 41
Fireworks explosion ignites local curiosity Despite the early gasps of shock and disappointment that quickly followed the fireworks explosion in Ocean City Sunday morning, the loss of the resort’s two Fourth of July fireworks shows didn’t seem to matter that much to the hundreds of thousands of visitors who made their way here to see them. At least it didn’t seem to be that great of a concern to visitors and residents as it did to the resort’s elected officials, who have yet to say anything definitive about the incident beyond their own expressions of regret that the shows did not take place. The public, of course, already knew that, but were and are eager to know more about how and why this eruption occurred. Getting that information, however, could take a while, even though the investigation by the fire marshal’s office is said to be complete. The simple diagnosis so far is that the unintended explosion of one thing caused other things to do the same ... almost all at once. Obviously, there’s more to the story than that, as the ignition of that first piece of pyrotechnics did not occur for no reason. Maybe some inner chemical reaction made it unstable, maybe something else inadvertently set it off, maybe a wire touched another wire, maybe ... Although the weekend crowd, along with everyone else, wants to know the cause of ignition out of sheer curiosity, the general reaction of the local and visitor populations seemed to suggest that it was not that big a deal. These things happen, people seemed to say, as they found other ways to indulge their desires to celebrate the holiday. Hopefully, city officials will get around to releasing the full postmortem on this big bang and we can all start looking forward to next year. Chances are, however, that won’t happen until the Town of Ocean City and fireworks vendor Starfire Corp. come to terms over the $55,000 the city paid the company in advance. The city undoubtedly wants its money back, just as Starfire would be expected to fight to keep at least some of it to cover its own losses. Until that’s settled, the release of additional information will probably have to wait.
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EDITOR ............................................ Stewart Dobson MANAGING EDITOR ................................ Lisa Capitelli STAFF WRITERS .................. Greg Ellison, Neely James, .................... Greg Wehner, Jack Chavez, Mallory Panuska ASSISTANT PUBLISHER .......................... Elaine Brady ACCOUNT MANAGERS.......... Mary Cooper, Vicki Shrier CLASSIFIEDS/LEGALS MANAGER .... Nancy MacCubbin SENIOR DESIGNER ................................ Susan Parks GRAPHIC ARTIST .................................... Kelly Brown PUBLISHER........................................ Christine Brown ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT ...................... Gini Tufts Ocean City Today is published weekly by FLAG Publications, Inc. at 8200 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, Md. 21842. Ocean City Today is available by subscription at $150 a year. Visit us on the Web at www.oceancitytoday.com. Copyright 2021
PUBLIC EYE
Keeping sports pure
It’s a little-known fact that in the 45 BC Olympics, top athlete Draco Dementia was kicked out of the Olympic Bear-Wrestling Singles competition, as well as the Synchronized Bear Wrestling Team event, after testing positive for monkey gland extract. The refined extract, known in ancient Greek sporting circles as “Zeus Juice,” was said to have magical qualities and was therefore added to the list of banned performance-enhancBy ing substances, Stewart along with gorgon scales and a poulDobson tice made from the hair of three-headed dogs found only at the Gates of Hades. While acknowledging that he had indeed ingested this potent elixir, obtained from an illegal monkey juicing lab in downtown Athens, Dementia argued that he did so only to help him address a neighborhood minotaur problem. The Olympic rules committee, however, said tough noogies and sent him packing. And thus began the long history of conflict between the rule makers and rule breakers in Olympic sports, where the original ideal was to fill a stadium with naked people throwing, jumping, running and, uncomfortably, one would suppose, wrestling (“hey, Hey, HEY! Stop that!”). Today, obviously, things have changed.
Among other developments, clothes are required, although they may be specially made to improve the athlete’s performance, just as certain equipment has evolved as well. The pole used by vaulters, for instance, was initially made of wood, then bamboo, then aluminum, then fiberglass and then carbon fiber. Obviously, these changes drastically improved the human ability to propel themselves over a high bar, as was the clothing requirement, which ... never mind. Similarly, Olympic swimmers initially competed in wool onesies, which were replaced by silk, then nylon, then a nylon-Lycra combo, and finally a spritz of non-stick cooking spray that looks like a suit but is more of a tattoo, really. This, to get to the point, is why I’m disgusted with the Olympics. Officials contend they want to keep the sports pure by forbidding the use of, say, monkey gland extract by athletes, but are more than happy to let vaulters use a composite pole that will sling their spindly carcasses over a bar that’s 5 feet higher than the best-ever bamboo vault. I don’t get it. In the scheme of things, what is the difference between a record broken because of enhanced equipment and one broken because of an enhanced human performance? What I mean is if everyone took monkey gland extract, wouldn’t that be a level playing field as well? That, of course, is not going to happen because monkey gland extract fell out of favor long ago. According to Olympics archives, it followed the tragic death in 1908 of English runner Arnold Smythe-Feeble, whose famous last words were, “I say, I think gorilla gland extract would be even better.”
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Ocean City Today
Miami tragedy offers OC lessons
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Park redevelopment for downtown Editor, In January, the Ocean City Council voted to move forward a three-phase conceptual plan for redeveloping the recreation park complex between Third Street and Fourth Street along the bayside. First phase: to re-purpose the current fenced-in baseball field and create an open flexible lawn area surrounded by trees for pick-up sports and a pavilion / band stage for concerts. Second phase: to expand the skate park, reposition the basketball court and improve the playground area. Third phase: to construct restrooms near the location of the pavilion/band stage. Revitalizing the downtown park area is welcomed and certainly is needed, however let’s not put the cart before the horse. Before the first phase begins all the town’s resources (business, residents and government) should focused on solving summer’s reoccurring problems: the out of control litter and disturbing and threatening activity in the neighborhood surrounding the park. After all a clean and safe place to play is “the primary goal.” Downtown Neighborhood Watch Coordinators, Newt Weaver and Margaret Pillas
By Lisa Gundling Contributing Writer (July 9, 2021) As the tragedy of the condo collapse in Surfside, Florida continues, we’ve learned that the owners of Champlain Towers South knew their building needed extensive repairs. Various sources report they were stymied by the $15 million price tag, along with the magnitude of the project. At least one Champlain owner sued the Homeowner’s Association (HOA) in 2015 due to crumbling walls and water intrusion, according to a CNN interview with the condo owner’s attorney (his client survived the collapse.) In addition, it appears there were varying degrees of concern and apathy among owners at Champlain, typical of all HOAs. We still don’t know whether lack of repairs caused the condo to collapse. Despite this, condo owners in Ocean City (including me) can’t help but think of the parallels to their own beachfront buildings, with the corrosive effects of sand, wind, salt and water. Questions leap to mind such as, “suppose that was my building?” Followed by, “what should I do if I notice a big problem in my building?” And, “what would I do if my HOA board or
other owners didn’t care to fix the problem?” As a condo owner in Ocean City who has recently dealt with a safety and liability issue, along with an uncooperative HOA board, and too many apathetic neighbors, I can attest that the answers aren’t easy. However, addressing the issue headon and remaining diligent is worth some peace of mind. What happened? In the fall of 2018, my five-story building in Ocean City was planning a renovation, which would include brand new walkway railings. Construction, cost more than $2.5 million was to start one year later (fall 2019), ending with walkway railing installation concluding in the spring of 2021, with summers off for the rental season. Some owners, who were in favor of the renovation but wanted alternative ideas considered, questioned whether the purchase of new railings could be postponed to alleviate the immediate cost burden. Disagreeing, the condo board e-mailed a dire warning to all unit owners, writing: “I’ll bet you I could go to many of the railings on the walkways or balconies, give them one swift kick, and watch them fall over. “Just think of someone on the fifth floor, leaning against the rail-
ing to take a picture of the beautiful pool below and the railing ‘SNAPS.’ That person is now splattered in the loading zone just awaiting the lawsuit against [the condo]. That will be worth much more than the replacement of the railings. “Think about that!!!” Visions of renters falling from the fifth floor haunted me. What would we tell the families of the victims? How would we admit that our solution was to wait 2.5 years to replace the railings? Criminal and civil lawsuits would be a certainty. A personal injury attorney I consulted said he believed that the condo board’s e-mail could very well be damaging to the HOA if anyone fell from the railings, noting that the first thing a lawyer looks for is, “did [the defendant] know there could be harm?” It’s practically unheard of to find something written like this, he opined. Knowing that the personal and collective liability had to be stemmed, I joined forces with a few like-minded owners to find a solution and get our concerns on the record. Here’s how: Condo board. We asked the condo board to have the railings inspected by the city or to replace them quickly. They didn’t respond. See CONDO Page 43
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Ocean City Today
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SYMBOL OF LOVE
Visitors will see an assortment of locks along the Ocean City Fishing Pier fence. According to Wikipedia, sweethearts fasten these locks - typically with their names or initials and a special date - to a bridge, fence, gate, monument, etc., to symbolize their love. The key is then thrown away.
Condo boards help monitoring Continued from Page 42 Join them. I joined a board committee. During my first meeting with them, I requested a railing inspection or immediate railing replacement. They refused, saying the railings weren’t a problem. Surprised by their verbal reversal, I then asked the condo board for a written retraction of their earlier e-mail warning. They refused this, too, causing the liability risk to remain. Other unit owners. We tried to involve other owners, with little response. Outside sources. The Maryland Attorney General’s Office, which oversees condo HOA complaints, said that this issue didn’t fall under their purview. I notified the building’s property insurer, but that went nowhere. Fire marshal and building inspector to the rescue. Six months later, my HOA board officially voted against testing the railings. In an astounding move, they admitted they wanted to avoid testing, because if the railings didn’t pass, the summer rental season might be jeopardized. The board had videotaped their own comments, so this was one more addition to the mounting liabilities. With other options exhausted, I finally reported the railing situation to the Ocean City Fire Marshal’s Office. The fire marshal arrived within 15 minutes and brought in the city’s building inspector. The city issued a violation letter, directing my condo board to have the railings professionally tested. The good news is that the railings ultimately passed the test. Unfortu-
nately, this was overshadowed when the engineer in charge of the building renovation shockingly told unit owners at our annual meeting that he didn’t trust the railings or the testing, which examined a limited number of areas. In light of this, I asked if all railings could be installed first, but nothing came of it. New railing installation for the entire building was still 18 months from completion, so the liability concerns continued. At this point, I had done all I could, so prayer and finger-crossing was all that was left. A few months ago, in May 2021, the final railings were installed in my building. The cloud of uncertainty has been lifted, along with the liability issues. While I truly hope that lack of repairs didn’t play a part in the Champlain Towers collapse, it does serve as a reminder to watch out for liability and safety issues in our beachfront buildings. If you suspect that something is wrong with your building, take your concerns to your condo board, to the other owners, and to any outside entities that can influence your condo board, if your concerns are rebuffed. Get yourself on the record as a concerned owner and keep a paper trail of all your attempts. While it’s true that an individual condo owner doesn’t have the power to make or implement decisions, individual owners can demonstrate that they will not be a party to unsafe practices that could put them at risk for personal liability.
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JULY 9, 2021
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FILE PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Members of the Board of Education and the Worcester County Commissioners recently approved an expedited bid from Delmar, Delaware-based Crystal Steel Fabricators to provide steel for a planned addition to Stephen Decatur Middle School.
Steel shortage concerns expedite SDMS bid By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer (July 9, 2021) Fueled by the fear of a dwindling steel supply following plant closures last year because of covid-19, Worcester County officials have fast tracked a construction bid for a planned addition at Stephen Decatur Middle School. Members of the Worcester County Commissioners voted on Tuesday to approve a bid agreement with Delmar, Delaware-based Crystal Steel Fabricators to provide steel for the project, which is still on track to break ground in November. The action came on the heels of a June 24 special Board of Education held specifically to expedite the bid process. “The economic slowdown caused by the pandemic resulted in many steel producers worldwide pulling back production,” said Vince Tolbert, the chief financial officer of Worcester County Public Schools, via email this week. “Steel production was cut to reflect the depressed construction market conditions,” he continued. “There is now a smaller supply of steel coupled with a rising demand as the economy begins to recover from pandemic conditions.” The project will eliminate the need for nine portable classrooms that have been accommodating the growing student population at the Berlin school. Tolbert said plans call for 24,800 square feet of added space, including 12 general education classrooms; four science classrooms and two prep rooms; two girls and two boys restrooms; two storage rooms a conference room; three small meeting rooms; a teacher work room; and an 800 square-foot storage room adjacent to the existing stage in the cafeteria. Documents for the bid for materials were released May 27 and opened June 17. According to BOE documents, a total of four bids were received. Crystal Steel, which was also the steel contractor for the new Showell Elementary, submitted the lowest bid at $718,624. Tolbert explained that school board members were initially set to review and approve the winning bid at their next regular meeting on July 13, but opted to expedite it because of the concerns over steel availability. He said the contract was the only one that was expedited, with the next opening set to follow the original schedule.
“We will continue with the remaining bid packages on our original bidding schedule,” Tolbert explained. “This schedule includes bid opening in August, Board of Education approval in
September, County Commissioner approval in October with actual construction starting in November. Since the project steel will be ordered in August and arrive on site in February/March,
we should not encounter any construction delays due to the availability of the project steel.” Under that schedule, project completion is set for December 2022.
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Ocean City Today
COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS
OFF TO COLLEGE Worcester Prep graduates wear T-shirts representing the colleges they will be attending this fall. All 43 members of the graduating class will be going to a four-year college, and half of them have attended Worcester since Pre-K or Kindergarten.
AWARDED Sponsored by the Worcester County Garden Club, Stephen Decatur Middle School student Renata Lovitt was recently presented with an award for placing first in the National Garden Clubs, Inc. 2019-2020 Youth Poetry Contest. Lovitt wrote the poem “My Grandmother’s Garden” when she was in sixth grade, but restrictions imposed during the covid pandemic delayed the award. Pictured, from left, are Superintendent of Worcester County Public Schools Louis H. Taylor; Lovitt; and Worcester County Garden Club Youth Contests chairs Joanne Kirby and Brigid Slavin.
SCHOLARSHIPS Four Stephen Decatur High School students were presented with scholarships in the amount of $6,000 by the Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club. Pictured, from left, are Trent Ortega (Advanced Technical Institute), Kellen Catrino (Salisbury University), Lauren Kemp (Salisbury University) and Ericka Holdren (University of Maryland at College Park).
HONORED
LEARNING IS FUN Students in Ashley Miller’s class at Berlin Intermediate School were reviewing dialogue and editing sentences for correct punctuation by “karate chopping” and inserting punctuation where needed. Pictured is Logan Shelly, Foster Wakefield, Ariyanna Johnson, Aiden Buchheit, Jack Ritchie, Chandler Muller, Ben Marino and Jayden Ye.
Betty Johnson Whitehead was recently presented with a certificate marking her 25 years of dedicated service to the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). Whitehead, a member of General Levin Winder Chapter, was accepted into the DAR on Dec. 2, 1995. Her patriot is James Stevenson of Maryland. The DAR is a women’s service organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history, and securing America’s future through better education. For more information, visit www.dar.org.
JULY 9, 2021
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Ocean City Today
St. Mary church bells ringing again Downtown Catholic house of worship unveiled new look at June 30 ceremony By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer (July 9, 2021) The bells are regularly ringing once again at St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church in downtown Ocean City. Last week, after a longer-thanplanned closure for a series of renovations, the historic house of worship at 208 Baltimore Ave. opened its doors for its first public service in more than two years. Father John Solomon, the priest at both the recently reopened downtown church and the Sea and Holy Savior on 17th Street, said the event on June 30 attracted roughly 120 people, which he deemed impressive for a mid-week service in the heart of summer at the beach. The opening was the inaugural one not only for the new and improved church building, but also for Solomon, who took his position in June 2019, just a few months after the renovations began. “It was great, it was really exciting,” Solomon said of the ceremony, which included a prayer service, some socializing and refreshments, and a few words shared about the
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fundraising efforts and path from the project’s inception to the doors finally opening. “I wouldn’t consider myself the most emotional of people but it sort of got to me a little bit, the opening, knowing the amount of time, the amount of work,” Solomon continued. “I learned a lot of things, not just about building — it’s easier to build
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something new than fix up something old — but just in terms of the involvement of the people and everybody really giving so much.” The original idea for the renovations, which included tearing down the old rectory on the side of the main church building and replacing it with a bride room, expanding the sacristy, See SUNDAY Page 48
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Ocean City Today
Sunday, Wednesday services slated Continued from Page 47 and creating an outdoor garden and parking area, began taking shape in 2015. That was the extent of the plans at the time, but as the work began, church officials realized it would not be that simple. Solomon said they determined that the floor of the old building, which was constructed in 1877 and stands as the oldest building in the town, was not in good shape and needed stabilizing. Other improvements included adding an entrance on the outside, work on the doors and windows, painting and landscaping, and replacing the HVAC system. All in all, the project cost more than $740,000, which was more than the original estimate of roughly $600,000 for the work. “With God being good,” though, as Solomon put
it, the church had enough to cover the initial costs and fundraised for the rest. “The nice thing is, as we open this up we are debt free, which is a huge gift,” he said. The funding was not the only gift that the church received, either. Solomon said the parishioners have dedicated a great deal of time and effort to helping with the improvements. For example, he said volunteers spent hours after Sunday masses using what he called little toothbrushes to clean some brass candlesticks that desperately needed polishing during the course of the renovation work. “It was a labor of love,” Solomon said. “It’s not something that really gets recognized or seen a lot but [it was] everybody really coming to-
gether, which was really beautiful to see.” Now that the church is officially open, Solomon said he will hold sunrise services there at 7 a.m. on Sundays as well as services at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesdays. He said volunteers are also set to spend time at the church after Wednesday masses to talk with people walking around downtown. Piggybacking on that, Solomon also plans to spend evening hours at the church when he can. “I didn’t like the idea of, we’re going to do all this work, and all this time, and spend all this money and just have it open for an hour on Sunday when almost no one is up,” he said of wanting to spend time at the downtown church. “In Ocean City I think we’ve got to make it available more times.”
Elks Lodge 2645 Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament The 15th Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament Fundraiser was held on June 14, 2021 at Eagle’s Landing Golf Course and was a huge success! All the funds raised are used to award scholarships to local students. The Scholarship Golf Tournament Fundraiser Committee would like to thank Eagle’s Landing, Pepsi, all the sponsors, the volunteers and the golfers for their commitment to this worthwhile event and their dedication to assist students with financial awards. Just to name a few of our sponsors: Bayside Resort Golf Club Bear Trap Dunes Cripple Creek Golf and Country Club Eagle's Landing Golf Course Glen Riddle Golf Club Links At Lighthouse Sound Mulligan's Pointe
Ocean City Golf Club Ocean Resorts Golf Club River Run Golf Club & Community Rum Pointe Seaside Golf Links Plantation Lakes Golf & Country Club Ocean Pines Golf Club
JULY 9, 2021
Vaccinated youths eligible for tuition money across Md. By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer (July 9, 2021) Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan has found a way to incentivize younger residents to get covid-19 vaccinations. In a news release this week, Hogan announced the launch of the VaxU Scholarship Promotion, a $1 million program for vaccinated 12- to 17-year olds. Winners will receive a $50,000 scholarship, which covers the equivalent of full tuition and fees at a public, in-state institution of higher education. The Maryland Higher Education Commission and the Maryland Department of Health will jointly administer the program, which will select 20 winners through random drawings between now and Labor Day. Beginning Monday, the promotion will randomly select two winners per week for eight weeks. On Sept. 6 — Labor Day — four winners will be selected. To qualify for the scholarship, students must both live and be vaccinated in Maryland. Vaccine numbers and info: • As of Thursday, Maryland providers have administered more than 6.93 million covid-19 vaccines and a total of 75.2 percent of Marylanders had been vaccinated. • As of Wednesday, AGH had received a total of 16,455 doses of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines and 900 of the Johnson & Johnson. • Hospital personnel had administered a total 11,542 covid vaccines as of Wednesday at hospital vaccine clinics. • The Worcester County Health Department holds vaccine clinics each week. For information about when and where they will be held visit worcesterhealth.org/protectmenu/1726-worcester-county,-mdcoronavirus-covid-19-information-2 020. Covid case numbers: • As of Thursday, Worcester County’s covid-19 positivity rate was 2.04 percent, an increase from 0.50 percent last week. The state’s rate was 0.77 percent. • Also as of Thursday, Maryland reported 462,835 confirmed cases of covid-19. • Worcester County has confirmed 10 new cases since last week, bringing the county’s total cases since March 2020 to 3,707. • Ocean Pines and Berlin had 1,489 cases and Ocean City had 948 Thursday. • Worcester has recorded a total of 106 deaths from covid-19.
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Ocean City Today
Buoy launched off Maryland coast for monitoring whales (July 9, 2021) The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Maryland Energy Administration (MEA), University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science and Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution have launched an ocean buoy that monitors and provides daily reports of whales detected off Maryland’s Atlantic coast. A wide range of whales, dolphins, and porpoises call the ocean offshore Maryland home or visit during their annual migration along the Atlantic coast. The buoy supports the state’s efforts to expand its understanding of marine mammals and to support research that will aid environmental assessments such as those conducted for offshore wind development. This buoy will provide information about these species and the time of year they are present. The buoy was deployed about 23 miles offshore and is sited within US Wind LLC’s MarWin lease. A U.S. Coast Guard notice to mariners was issued to alert ocean-going vessels and the boating community to its location. The buoy system has an underwater listening device called a hydrophone that will record marine mammal calls. A detection algorithm will then analyze these calls and determine the presence of humpback, fin, sei, and the critically endangered North Atlantic Right whale species. These data will be transmitted to shore, and the records will be verified by university scientists and shared on a daily basis. Anyone interested in which species are detected off our coast can access the daily reports on the buoy website. The DNR and Energy Administration have supported several research initiatives to help provide informa-
tion to be used when evaluating potential offshore wind deployment. Such initiatives help the state understand the physical characteristics, wind resources, and local and migratory wildlife of the mid-Atlantic Outer Continental Shelf. The administration has also funded a number of focused studies analyzing Maryland’s port infrastructure, steel fabrication facilities, and offshore wind supply chain capabilities. These research initiatives help provide key information to offshore wind project developers to facilitate the development of plans, which must be submitted to and approved by the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management prior to construction.
PHOTO COURTESY MARK BAUMGARTNER, WOODS HOLE OCEANOGRAPHIC INSTITUTION
A buoy launched 23 miles off of Maryland’s coast monitors and provides reporting on the whales that call the area home or migrate through it. The buoy uses an underwater listening device.
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JULY 9, 2021
Two 19-year-olds found with four handguns By Greg Wehner Staff Writer (July 9, 2021) Two men face felony charges in Ocean City after police found four handguns, several grams of marijuana and thousands of dollars in U.S. currency in their possession. Tobias A. Kargbo, 19, and Dennis Sanchez, Jr., 19, both of Alexandria, Virginia were arrested by Ocean City Police at approximately 2:35 p.m. on July 4 near Fourth Street on gun-related charges as well as charges connected to drug distribution. Police said Kargbo was stopped for several traffic infractions and an investigation revealed he was driving with a learner’s permit. His passenger, Sanchez, also only possessed a learner’s permit, though the registration said he was the owner of the car Kargbo was driving, according to police. In addition, police said a search of the car resulted in the recovery of a Glock 17 9 mm handgun loaded with 17 rounds of ammunition and one round in the chamber, a Glock 22 .40 caliber handgun loaded with 15 rounds of ammunition and one round in the chamber, a Glock 26 9 mm handgun containing a 31-round extended capacity magazine loaded with 25 rounds of ammunition and one round in the chamber, a Glock 19
9 mm handgun loaded with 15 rounds of ammunition and one in the chamber, several rounds of ammunition throughout the car, two scales with THC on them, approximately 69 grams of marijuana and $2,770 in cash. When officers interviewed Kargbo, he allegedly said about 20 grams of the marijuana was his and that a 10mm round of ammunition in the Tobias Kargbo passenger-side door was his from a rifle he once owned. As far as the handguns, police said, Kargbo said they did not belong to him, though he did see a “Glock 17” on the pasDennis Sanchez senger floorboard that belonged to Sanchez. When Sanchez was questioned by officers, court documents said, he stated there were “drugs and firearms” inside the vehicle and that the Glock 17 under his seat was his. Police said Sanchez admitted to putting the gun under the seat about two to three hours before the traffic stop and that he had a “gut feeling” something was in the rear pocket of
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the passenger seat. When he reached back, Sanchez told police, he felt a clip which he admitted being a 31round extended capacity. Ultimately, both men were arrested on suspicion of drug distribution. When officers searched Sanchez, he was in possession of $1,693 in currency, and an investigation into the handgun he admitted to having revealed that it had been stolen from South Carolina. Sanchez was charged with four counts each of felony drug distribution with a firearm, felony drug trafficking with a firearm, misdemeanor charges of possessing a firearm as a minor under the age of 21, possession of a loaded handgun in a vehicle, and possession of a handgun in a vehicle, as well as additional counts of possessing a loaded handgun, having a handgun, possessing a registered
firearm that was reported stolen, criminal possession of drugs with intent to distribute, and criminal possession of more than 10 grams of marijuana. Kargbo was charged with three counts each of felony drug distribution with a firearm, felony drug trafficking with a firearm, misdemeanor charges of possessing a firearm as a minor under the age of 21, possession of a loaded handgun in a vehicle, and possession of a handgun in a vehicle, as well as additional counts of possessing a loaded handgun, having a handgun, criminal possession of drugs with intent to distribute, and criminal possession of more than 10 grams of marijuana. Both men were held without bond. Kargbo is expected back in Worcester District Court in Ocean City on Aug. 2, while Sanchez will be back in court on August 5.
Men face burglary charges following Boardwalk feud By Greg Wehner Staff Writer (July 9, 2021) Ocean City Police arrested four people last week after they allegedly chased down a man and his friends, forced their way into their apartment and robbed them. Police said they they got a call around midnight last Tuesday about a disorderly group near an apartment building on the Boardwalk. The alledged robbery victim told officers that four men chased him into his apartment, kicked in the door, threatened him and his friends, then attempted to rob them. Police then broadcast a description of the four men, and a short time later the men were found. The men were identified as James Travon Jones, 19, of Temple Owings Mills; Christianne Dave Igao, 19, of Owings Mills, and two fifteen-year-old juveniles from Baltimore. Police said it appeared that the four suspects and victims got into an argument on the Boardwalk and that it continued at the apartment. After forcing their way into the apartment, the four men assaulted the victims and robbed them of their belongings, po-
lice said. Jones and Igao were both charged with home invasion or breaking and entering with the intent of committing an act of violence, first-degree burglary, three counts of first-degree assault, three counts of third-degree burglary, two counts of robbery, three counts of seconddegree assault, two Christianne Igao counts of false imprisonment, and trespassing on private property. Igao and Jones were both held without bond. The two juveniles were both charged with robbery, first-degree James Jones assault, home invasion, and first-degree burglary. Their cases were referred to the Department of Juvenile Services. Police asked that if citizens see something suspicious or have concerns about possible criminal activity, they call the Tip Line at 410-520-5136, email them at crimetips@oceancitymd.gov, or call the police department directly at 410-723-6610.
JULY 9, 2021
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Ocean City Today
Police report slight crime increase By Greg Wehner Staff Writer (July 9, 2021) The Fourth of July weekend presented evidence of a closerto-normal summer in the Ocean City resort area after a year plagued by a pandemic, as crowds were seen moving between the beach, rentals, and popular night spots at all hours of the day. But with those crowds came a slight increase in crime when comparing 2021 to 2019. Ashley Miller, the deputy communications manager for the Ocean City Police Department said 2,014 calls were made for service between July 2 and 5. Of those calls, 680 were made by citizens while 1,334 were made by officers in the field. The department also made 89 arrests over the extended weekend – 14 that were drug-related, six that related to illegal weapons, and six associated with driving
while under the influence of alcohol. In 2019, the department made 61 arrests, with eight of those connected to drugs, six involving weapons, and six related to driving while under the influence of alcohol. Two 19-year-old men – Dennis Sanchez Jr. and Tobias Amari Kargbo, both of Alexandria, Virginia – for example, were arrested on Sunday after they were found to be in possession of four loaded handguns, two ounces of marijuana, two digital scales, and more than $4,000 in cash. Both men were ultimately held without bond. Police also made 245 traffic stops over the weekend, with 138 traffic citations and 107 warnings being issued. The number of traffic stops was up from 213 in 2019, which resulted in 94 citations and 119 warnings. The department also responded to 63 motor vehicle accidents this past week-
end compared to 54 in 2019. When asked about how many calls were made regarding the illegal fireworks over the weekend, and how many citations were issued, the department did not comment. In addition to fireworks mishaps, the Ocean City Department of Public Works tended to a water main break on Coastal Highway at approximately 2 p.m. on Saturday. To fix the water main and the crack in the road, police shut down two of the northbound lanes of Coastal Highway, forcing all traffic to merge into one. Efforts to repair the pipe and hole were hindered by torrential rains that peppered the area that afternoon and into the evening. Crews were able to complete the work by midnight, though they were seen making further repairs on Tuesday afternoon.
Temple Hills man flees bike crash By Greg Wehner Staff Writer (July 9, 2021) A Temple Hills man was arrested by Ocean City Police after he allegedly hit a bicyclist on Philadelphia Avenue and fled the scene. Michael William Shaw, 33, was arrested by Ocean City Police during the early morning hours on July 5 near Route 50 and Whaleyville Road and charged with DUI, failing to stop at the scene of an accident involving bodily injury, reckless driving, and Michael Shaw various other charges. Police responded to a motor vehicle accident involving a pedestrian near 14th Street at approximately 12:30 a.m. that morning, and when they arrived, they saw two bicycles with bent frames on the ground. One of the cyclists told police he was riding in one of the lanes when a vehicle following him too closely hit the bike and caused him to crash. But the car continued down the road, the man told officers, as if the driver had no idea he was involved in a crash. Witnesses told police the Nissan that struck the bicycle did not have its headlights on, and they saw it head south on Philadelphia Avenue. Another witness, court documents said, followed the car from the scene of the crash to Route 50, then to the U.S. 113 interchange while also giving police the license plate number. The vehicle was later spotted, and Shaw was in the driver’s seat. Police said Shaw told officers he was leaving Ocean City where he was with his family. When officers asked Shaw if his last alcoholic beverage was before or after the crash, he said, “it had to be before the crash,” though he insisted several times
he was not involved in a car crash. A trooper at the scene found that a juvenile passenger in the Nissan had been texting someone, and an outgoing text message stated that the Nissan was stopped by police because Shaw struck someone in Ocean City, according to court documents.
An investigation revealed Shaw was under the influence of alcohol, police said, and he was charged with driving while impaired and leaving the scene of a bodily injury accident. The cyclist complained of back pain and was taken to a local hospital and treated for his injuries.
Officials determine house fire in West OC intentionally set (July 9, 2021) The Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office has determined that the June 22 fire that destroyed a home at at 12847 Harbor Road in West Ocean City was intentionally set. The 1:51 a.m. fire destroyed the unoccupied home and boat house and damaged three additional houses. Two firefighters were injured while battling the fire. Investigators said the assistance of the public has been encouraging as has the help from allied agencies, as the county fire marshal’s office pursues various leads. The fire marshal’s office was assisted on the scene by the Ocean City Fire Marshal’s Office and a Maryland State Fire Marshal K9 accelerant unit. The Worcester County Bureau of Investigation is assisting the County Fire Marshal’s Office with the investigation. Anyone with any information related to the June 22 Harbor Road arson is ask to call the Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office at 410632-5666 or the Maryland Fire and Arson hotline at 1-800-492-7528. www.oceancitytoday.com
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Ocean City Today
JULY 9, 2021
OC Beach Patrol act fast during 4th mishap By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer (July 9, 2021) Fourth of July 2021 was unlike any other for Ocean City Beach Patrol Capt. Butch Arbin. What started as a routine setup on Sunday morning of a safe perimeter around the line of fireworks slated to blast off later that night from the beach downtown turned into a scramble to get crowds to safety after a premature detonation. “We guard the fireworks,” Arbin said of the role of the Beach Patrol staff. “We establish a perimeter and make sure people don’t walk through the area, and this is a perfect example of why.” According to the show contract between the town of Ocean City and provider Starfire Corporation, the fireworks were to blast off on the beach at 9:30 p.m. Sunday. Company officials began setting up the show that morning to the east of Dorchester Street and the Boardwalk at the high tide line. The fire marshal established a circular perimeter around the area that reached 450 feet both to the west toward the Boardwalk and to the east into the ocean, and 600 feet to both the north and south. An added layer of protection jutted out another roughly 20 feet into sand. That’s the area Arbin said his crews were guarding when the explosion occurred around 10 a.m. Sunday. “So we had our personnel out there but they were at the perimeter so when it happened they just did their job to keep the crowd back,” Arbin said. The new radius the guards established eliminated all of the space between the beach and the pier to the south, and the sand and the Boardwalk to the west. To the north, Arbin said the guards probably pushed the perimeter another 50 or so feet up the beach.
LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Members of the Ocean City Beach Patrol guarded a radius around the fireworks, shown here on the beach near Dorchester Street, to keep the public safe during the setup on Sunday. When a firework detonated prematurely by accident, guards hurried to usher people further away from the area.
At the time, droves of people hoping to enjoy the sunny weather before the nighttime show had already set up their towels and beach umbrellas just outside of the original radius, and Arbin said the patrol members had to act fast to move everyone to safety. “We managed to get the crowd back and keep them back through the course of the day until they were able to go back and get their belongings and we stayed out there maintaining the area [Sunday] night until we turned it over to the police department,” Arbin said. “And then we were back out there [Monday] morning again just making sure the perimeter was enforced. It wasn’t what we typically do for that event, but it’s what we typically do on the beach.”
Arbin added that the detonation is the entire reason safety measures are implemented for these types of public events. “There’s often people that like to argue with you, but this is a perfect example,” Arbin said. “The reason we have a perimeter out there is for the safety of the public. And because yesterday there was a perimeter, and it was being enforced, the public wasn’t in danger and that’s what we do.” The fireworks mishap was also not the only thing keeping lifeguards busy last holiday weekend. While the number of water rescues was not extremely high given the large number of people on the beach, Arbin said there were still quite a few, with a total of 68 Saturday, 148 Sunday and
a whopping 382 Monday. He said there were also emergency calls that required ambulances all three days, with four on Saturday, 10 on Sunday and nine Monday. One surprise, though, was the lower-than-expected number of lost and found children reported over the weekend. Arbin said last week that holiday weekends usually result in around 100 lost and found children but that there were only 14 reported Saturday, 26 Sunday and five Monday. “It wasn’t a terribly busy Fourth of July weekend from our standpoint,” Arbin said. “The beaches were packed, there were a lot of people here, but from our standpoint, the things we needed to be involved with, it was not unusual.”
JULY 9, 2021
Ocean City Today
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COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS
PHOTO COURTESY OCEAN PINES ASSOCIATION
MEMORIAL A crowd gathered at the Ocean Pines Racquet Center recently to remember Paul Rusko as a teacher, mentor, and a dedicated family man who had an effect on countless people, both locally and throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. His widow, Barbara, is pictured with the bench that now has a plaque in his honor.
OBSERVANCE In observance of Memorial Day, the Worcester County Garden Club placed a wreath at the Veterans Monument in downtown Berlin. The wreath was designed and created by member Sue Ann Hudson. Pictured, from left, are Hudson, Deb Young, Martha Bennett, Suzy Young and Pat Arata. Individuals interested in learning more about Worcester County Garden Club can contact the membership chair at WorCtyGardenClub@gmail.com.
FOOD DONATION The Ocean City – Berlin Rotary Club, with the help of Hocker’s grocery store in Ocean View, Delaware, was able to present a food donation to Sonrise Church Storehouse and Sarah’s Pantry – both Berlin area food pantries. The donation was two of nine made possible through a Rotary District 7630 grant secured by the club, jointly with Southern Sussex Rotary Club. Pictured, from left, are club member Gina Shaffer, Sarah’s Pantry coordinator Marion Bickerstaff and Club Treasurer Margaret Mudro. The Club normally meets every Wednesday at the Residence Inn in Ocean City. However, due to the pandemic the club is meeting by Zoom. For more information or to join a meeting email ocberlinrotary@gmail.com.
MEETING The Republican Women of Worcester County held a meet and greet for Republican women living in the central part of Worcester on May 15, at The River House Inn in Snow Hill. More than 40 women attended. Pictured, from left, are hosts and owners of The River House Inn, Rick Lesser and Dwayne Mease, with President of RWWC, Beth Rodier, accepting a donation. To learn more about Republican Women of Worcester County, visit www.gopwomenofworcester.org.
FOOD DONATION
ARTS DAY On Sunday, June 13, The Art League of Ocean City held "Arts Day at the Winery," a friend-raiser and fundraiser at Windmill Creek Winery and Vineyards in Berlin on June 13. A large crowd attended the all-day event that featured an artisans' marketplace, live music, arts and crafts, and perfect weather. Pictured is Marisa Longo.
The Ocean City – Berlin Rotary Club, with the help of Hocker’s grocery store in Ocean View, Delaware, was able to present a food donation to Sonrise Church Storehouse and Sarah’s Pantry – both Berlin area food pantries. The donation was two of nine made possible through a Rotary District 7630 grant secured by the club, jointly with Southern Sussex Rotary Club. Pictured, from left, are Club Treasurer Margaret Mudron, members Gina Shaffer, Ashley Church, Steve Gragert and President Elect Brian Shockley, and Chris Cannon, Hocker’s store manager. The Club normally meets every Wednesday at the Residence Inn in Ocean City. However due to the pandemic the club is meeting by Zoom. For more information, email ocberlinrotary@gmail.com.
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POLICE/COURTS
DUI Allen Ray Butts, 54, of Martinsburg, West Virginia was arrested by Ocean City Police at approximately 12:30 a.m. on June 29 near the inlet parking lot and charged with DUI, DWI, negligent driving and reckless driving. Police said Butts was stumbling through the inlet parking lot when a family rushed over to help him after he fell to the ground. After getting back up, Butts walked unsteadily to a vehicle, according to police, who advised him not to drive. Even though he told police he wouldn’t, he was spotted driving out of the lot, police said. He was stopped and arrested.
MDMA possession Nikolas Francis Cerza, 28, of Denver, Colorado was arrested by Ocean City Police at approximately 3:50 p.m. on June 29 on the Boardwalk near Eighth Street and charged with possession of drugs, public consumption of alcohol and having an open container. Police said Cerza was seen taking a sip of his spiked lemonade before crushing the can and throwing it away. Police recovered the can and arrested Cerza for an open container violation. A search of his person produced a small plastic bag containing with a white powdery substance, which by Cerza’s admission was MDMA, otherwise known as Ecstacy, police reported.
DUI and assault Christopher Scott Walls, 48, of Ocean City was arrested by Ocean City Police at 4:58 p.m. on June 29 near Captains Quarters Road and charged with DUI and second-degree assault. According to court documents, the woman who filed the complaint said Walls assaulted her before driving away. While police interviewed the woman, the
vehicle Walls left in drove past the scene and was found a short time later at a nearby restaurant with him standing on the outside leaning on the car. Police said they approached Walls, who showed signs of being under the influence of alcohol, when he held up an unopened bottle of alcohol and stated he wasn’t drinking yet. Walls explained to police that he got into an argument with the mother of his child, and when asked by officers why he was driving, he asked them to give him a break and let him go. Walls, police said, provided an ID card from Pennsylvania and his license privileges were suspended in Maryland for a DUI in May 2021. After refusing to submit to field sobriety tests, Walls was placed under arrest and transported to headquarters.
Pipes and rocks Shannon M. Williams, 41, of Odenton was arrested by Ocean City Police at 1:58 a.m. on July 1 near Caroline Street and the Boardwalk and charged with two counts of possession of drugs other than marijuana. Police said Williams was spotted on the beach with Michael J. Reinfelder, 67, of Parkville after midnight, which is not permitted under city code. When the officer approached the two people, he saw Reinfelder laying on the ground and attempting to button his pants before tossing a pipe into the sand next to him. Williams told police the pipe was used for smoking marijuana, but officers did not believe her and Reinfelder confessed he was in possession of crack cocaine. Police searched Reinfelder and found nothing, but discovered a small vial of suspected crack cocaine when they searched Williams. A search of the area where there arrest was made resulted in the discovery of several vials and an additional crack pipe in the sand.
At booking, Williams was found to be in possession of “multiple” Alprazolam pills not prescribed to her. In addition to the charges William faces, Reinfelder was charged with possession of drugs other than marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Possession of cocaine Taysha N. Maddox, 32, of Salisbury was arrested by Ocean City Police at 12:49 a.m. on July 5 near First Street and Philadelphia Avenue and charged with possession of drugs other than marijuana and disorderly conduct. Police said Maddox was the passenger of a vehicle that was stopped for going the wrong way on a one-way street. When officers approached the vehicle, they smelled marijuana and conducted a license check on the driver to discover his driving privileges were suspended. Officers then placed the driver in handcuffs as well as Maddox because of a potential warrant out for her arrest. A search of the vehicle produced a small plastic corner of a bag of suspected cocaine. The driver was then placed under arrest for possession of a controlled dangerous substance.
Disorderly behavior Scott L. Hershey, II, 32, of Millsboro was arrested by Ocean City Police at 7:21 p.m. on July 2 near Eighth Street and charged with possession of drugs other than marijuana, disorderly conduct, and various other violations. Police were called to a nearby hotel to assist with an eviction after Hershey and another man were seen climbing in and out of their room window while threatening to fight with other guests of the hotel. When officers arrived, they said, the two men appeared to be under the influence of alcohol. Officers issued an indefinite trespass warning to both
men, and as they walked off the property, Hershey yelled things like, “It’s free game out here, I’ll **** you up,” “You think you’re all big and bad with that badge, I’ll **** you up,” and “You big-nosed mother******.” Hershey and the other man then pulled out two cans of beer from Hershey’s backpack and opened them up before taking a sip, according to police. When officers asked the men to empty out the cans, they ignored the order and were arrested. A search of Hershey’s backpack resulted in the discovery of two tablets of Tramadol, a schedule IV controlled dangerous substance.
Illegal firearm Thomas J. Iezzi, 56, of Bear, Delaware was arrested by Ocean City Police at 2 a.m. on July 3 near 64th Street and charged with illegal possession of a firearm, illegal possession of ammunition, possession of a loaded handgun in a vehicle, DUI, and various other charges. Police said they were alerted to a driver nodding off at the wheel of a vehicle traveling north. Police stopped the driver, identified as Iezzi who during questioning told officers he had just passed Dewey Beach, which was nearly 20 miles north of the traffic stop. Iezzi was then taken to headquarters and his car Iezzi’s car was taken to the impound lot, where a search revealed a loaded 9mm handgun.
Drug possession Chad A. Colman, 39, of Ocean City was arrested by Ocean City Police at 2:26 a.m. on July 3 near a gas station at 120th Street and Coastal Highway. A clerk alerted officers that a man was sleeping in his car in front of the store, and when they approached the vehicle, they saw Colman in the front seat and asleep – he was also sweating heavily, police said. Continued on Page 55
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WORLD WAR II
Continued from Page 54 Colman was put through field sobriety tests, while a search of his car located 43 wax folds containing powdered heroin, three empty wax folds, a pipe used for smoking crack cocaine, a small baggie of white powder suspected to be cocaine, and two glass pipes with THC residue inside the car. He was taken to police headquarters and held before being released on his own recognizance.
DUI crash Michelle Nicole Dickinson, 31, of Ocean City was arrested by Ocean City Police at 11:56 p.m. on July 3 near Third Street and St. Louis Avenue and charged with DUI, possession of drugs other than marijuana, and negligent driving. Police said Dickinson allegedly sideswiped the side of a sedan as she attempted to parallel park her SUV. An investigation determined Dickinson was under the influence of alcohol and she was placed under arrest. A search of Dickinson produced a small baggie of suspected cocaine.
Walking to Bethany Beach Jackson Robert Miller, 21, of Monrovia was arrested by Ocean City Police at 9:15 p.m. on July 5 near 86th Street and charged with intoxicated public disturbance and disorderly conduct.
Police said Miller was laying in the bushes near a gas station at 85th Street when he stood up and continued walking north on the sidewalk. Then, police said, Miller started urinating on the sidewalk near 90th Street before staggering away. When asked by police where he was going, Miller allegedly replied that he was headed to Bethany Beach. Police told Miller he should get a ride to Bethany Beach to get there safely, though he was unwilling to do so. After handing his driver’s license to the officer, Miller started to yell at the officers, according to court documents. He continued to refuse a ride back to Bethany, and was arrested for disorderly intoxication and transported to the headquarters.
Death Investigation Ocean City Police responded to reports of an unconscious man outside of a building on Ninth Street on June 29, 2021, at approximately 04:45 a.m. after a citizen discovered the man outside of their home. Ocean City EMS personnel arrived at the scene and a short time later pronounced the victim deceased. Although the name of the victim has not been released, OCPD detectives have determined that the death was not a result of criminal activity. The body was transported to the Chief Medical Examiner’s Office for an autopsy.
Spain Blue Division joined Wermarcht 80 years ago By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer (July 9, 2021) This week, 80 years ago, the Spanish Blue Division was incorporated into the German Wehrmacht as the 250th Infantry Division. As word of the commencement of Operation Barbarossa — the Axis invasion of the USSR — spread through Europe, there was much joy and exultation. However, there was no more exuberance than in Spain, and, in particular, its capital, Madrid. This may have been, because other than Rome, Bern and Lisbon, this was the only western European capital that was not under the heel of the German jackboot. In Madrid, crowds gathered and began marching down Avenida de José Antonio toward the headquarters of the Falange. Avenida de José Antonio was, and is now, La Gran Ví a— the main drag of Madrid. The name was changed, by El Caudillo, Generalíssimo Francisco Franco, to honor José Antonio Primo de Rivero, the founder of the Spanish fascist party, the Falange Española, or Spanish Phalanx. Party Minister José Luis de Arrese, who was in the building as the crowd approached, immediately called Ramón Serrano Súñer, who was the
brother-in-law of El Caudillo, Spain’s Foreign Minister and chief of the Junta Política of the Falange. Súñer raced to Falange headquarters and went directly to the balcony, stepped outside and received a thunderous ovation. The Foreign Minister began addressing the crowd, “Comrades, it is not the time for speeches but it is the moment for the Falange to dictate its sentence of condemnation!” The throng responded with one voice, “¡Arriba Espana! ¡Viva Franco!” Súñer continued, “Russia is guilty — guilty of our civil war, guilty of the murder of José Antonio, our founder.” The crowd interrupted, “¡Ruso es culpable! ¡Arriba Espana! ¡Viva Franco!” The foreign minister ended his address by saying, “Guilty of the murder of so many comrades — so many soldiers who fell in that war brought on by the aggression of Russian communism. The destruction of communism is a necessary condition for the survival of a free and civilized Europe.” The crowd shouted, “¡Arriba Espana! ¡Viva Franco! ¡Viva Alamana!” And then, finally, with one voice, “Muerte a Soviet Ruso.” The year before, the German Führer Continued on Page 56
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Ocean City Today
JULY 9, 2021
WORLD WAR II Continued from Page 55 and his foreign minister, Joachim von Ribbentrop, had met with the Spanish Caudillo and his foreign minister for nine loooong hours at Hendaye, on the Franco-Spanish border, as the German leader attempted to persuade/cajole the Spanish leader to enter the war against Great Britain. The Spanish Caudillo agreed — in principle. However, he placed so many conditions on his country’s entry into the war, that it was obvious that Spain was going to sit this one out, even though everyone knew that he owed his position as the Spanish Caudillo — leader — to the aid he received from the German Reich and the Italian Kingdom. After the meeting, the German Führer told the Italian Duce that he, “...would rather have three or four teeth extracted than go through that again!” But now, the Spanish dictator saw a way to repay his debt to the Axis nations without going to war with the British Empire. The Reich’s ambassador to Spain, Eberhard von Stohrer, communicated Spain’s offer of participation and help in the crusade against communism to the Reich’s foreign minister. Minister von Ribbentrop immediately informed der Führer of the Spanish offer. On June 24, 3 days after the commencement of Operation Barbarossa, von Ribbentrop, thinking that the war would be over quickly, cabled Ambassador von Stohrer, “All right, but tell them to hurry!” When the call for volunteers was issued, the recruiting stations were overwhelmed as hundreds of thousands of Spanish men rushed to enlist to fight communism. All of the cadets of Spain’s military academy volunteered. Requirements for the volunteers were: membership in the Falange or military service; 20 - 28 years old; medical approval. The Spanish government decided to send an infantry division and a squadron of fighter pilots. The official name for the infantry division was División Española de Voluntarios — DEV. However, the name by which it is/was universally known is La División Azul (The Blue Division). It took this name from the blue
shirts it received from the Falange, as blue was the Falange color. The name was suggested by Minister de Arrese. Although the Spanish soldiers wore regulation German uniforms when on duty, when they were in Spain, they wore the blue shirts of the Falange, red berets of the Carlist party and the khaki pants of the Spanish Foreign Legion. Their German uniform had a patch worn on the right shoulder with the Spanish national colors and the word ESPAÑA. On June 30, a secret meeting was held at the Foreign Office on the Willamstrasse, in Berlin. The purpose of the meeting was to determine where the tens of thousands of expected foreign volunteers would be serving. It was decided that Germanic and Scandinavian volunteers, such as Danes, Finns, Flemings, Dutchman, Norwegians, and Swedes, would serve in the Waffen SS. Non-Germanic volunteers such as the Croats, Portugese, and Spaniards were assigned to the Wehrmacht. Even though Súñer hated him, Gen. Agustín Muñoz Grandes was chosen to lead the DEV. The British considered him, “...one of [Spain’s] best and most resolute generals.” On July 13, 1941, thousands packed Madrid’s Estación del Norte, as the young volunteers of Regiment Rodrigo made their way to the first train which would carry them on the initial leg of their trip to the German Reich. Gen. Muñoz Grandes was on the platform with other generals, ministers and government officials when Foreign Minister Súñer arrived, resplendent in a white uniform, as the band played “Cara al Sol(Face to the Sun).” This was the song of the Falange, written by Party Founder Primo de Rivero. After a short speech, as the crowd sang “Cara al Sol,” the train, draped in Spanish, German and Italian flags and bearing the first of Spain’s contribution to the Axis war effort, pulled out of the station. The next day, a similar scene was repeated, sin Minister Súñer, as Gen. Muñoz Grandes and his staff departed Madrid’s Barajas Airport. In the following days, the scene was replayed in the train stations of 18 other Spanish cities.
Celebration of Life Service Joseph Velenovsky, born May 30, 1950, passed away December 21, 2020, at his residence in Georgia. He is survived by his daughter Annie Morgan and his son Joseph Velenovsky III, also a brother Robert Velenovsky and sister Debbie Bova. His good friend Katherine Mohr was by his side at the time of his passing. Celebration of Life Service will be held on July 12, 2021, at St. Luke's Catholic Church in Ocean City, Maryland at 11:00 am. There will be a continuation of his life's celebration at Fiesta Park, 145th St. directly following the service. Joseph Velenovsky
The first train carrying the Spanish volunteers stopped at Hendaye. There the volunteers boarded third-class coaches of the French National Railway. The reception, as the train rolled through France, was decidedly different. Frenchmen along the route hurled taunts, stones and other missiles. At several stops, fights occurred. The attitude changed, once again, when the train crossed into Germany. At Karlsruhe, as many as 12,000 Germans gathered to welcome the young Spaniards. On July 23, 1941, the last trainload of Spanish volunteers arrived in Grafenwöhr, in Bavaria, for outfitting and training. The Spanish soldiers swore their loyalty to the German Führer on July 31,1941. La Division Azul began moving toward the front on Aug. 21, 1941. It, along with Escuadrilla Expedicionaria, a.k.a.: Escuadrilla Azul — the Spanish squadron of fighter pilots — was assigned to Armeegruppe Center, commanded by Field Marshal Fedor von Bock, whose objective was the Soviet capital of Moscow. It traveled, by train, to Grodno, which is a city now in Belarus. From Grodno, the Division marched 620 miles to Vitebsk, also now in Belarus, near the Polish and Lithuanian borders. With each soldier carrying 70 pounds of equipment, the division stretched for 20 miles. On Sept. 26, the division was diverted from Field Marshal von Bock’s Armeegruppe Center to join Field Marshal Wilhelm von Leeb’s Armeegruppe North, whose objective was Leningrad. Along the way, the Spanish soldiers began bedeviling their German allies with their disregard of the prohibition against fraternization with the Polish and Jewish girls. At Vitebsk, the division boarded other trains to the front, where it joined the Sixteenth Army, commanded by Ernst Busch. Escuadrilla Azul remained with Armeegruppe Center. It was responsible for downing 156 Soviet aircraft, at a cost of 21 killed and one captured. The Blue Division was assigned a sector of the front, north of the ancient Russian capital of Novgorod, along the Volkhov River. It began to settle in
during the second week of October, as the first snow fell. The temperature dropped to 29 degrees Fahrenheit. El Caudillo demonstrated more prescience than the Germans, when he ordered winter clothing shipped to La División Azul. On Oct.19, 1941, La División joined the German offensive toward Tikhvin, aimed at joining with the Finns along the Svir River east of Lake Ladoga and completing the encirclement of Leningrad. However, the Red Army’s tenacity and the plummeting mercury, combined to stop the offensive on Nov. 6. The temperature on that day was 23 degree Fahrenheit. By early December, it was down to -40 degrees By then, the division had suffered more than 2,400 casualties. Gen. Muñoz Grandes was replaced by Emilio Esteban Infantes y Martin in December 1942. Upon his return to Spain, Gen. Muñoz Grandes was greeted by almost every government official, promoted to Lt. general and awarded the Palma de Plata, the highest award of the Falange, which no one had received since Founder Primo de Rivero had received it, posthumously, during the Spanish Civil War. With the Allied invasion of North Africa, and the American occupation of French Morocco, El Caudillo, seeing the change in direction of the winds of war, and bowing to British and American pressure, ordered the division home on Oct. 10, 1943. Those that wished to stay — 2,133 — served in the Legión Azul, commanded by Col. Antonio García Navarro, former chief-ofstaff of La División Azul. By November 1944, most of them had returned to Spain. Some 250 stayed until the bitter end, with a company commanded by Miguel Esquerra, serving in, first, the SS Wallonian Panzergrenadierdivision and then the SS Nordland Panzergrenadierdivision, defending Berlin. Approximately 47,000 Spanish soldiers served in La División Azul, the Legión Azul and Escuadrilla Azul. One-third were veterans, while the rest were from the Falange. About 5,000 were killed, 8,700 wounded, 1,500 suffered frostbite and 372 were captured. Continued on Page 57
JULY 9, 2021
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Ocean City Today
OBITUARIES CLAUDE GARY COLEMAN, JR. Ocean City Claude (Joe) Gary Coleman, Jr., age 95, passed away in the care of his family and home nursing assistance in Ocean City, Maryland on June 21, 2021, following health complications from a stroke. Joe and his wife, Mary (Betty passed Claude Coleman away in June 2015) had made Ocean City their retirement home in 1998. They had relocated from Parkville, Maryland in Baltimore County, where they had lived for most of their lives and raised six children. Joe was born in February 1926 in Augusta, Georgia, the son of Claude Gary Coleman and Annie Lee Smith, who later divorced. Joe leaves behind four surviving children (Mary, Joseph, Ann and Thomas), eight grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren. He also is survived by his brother, Krozer Early. In addition to his wife, he is preceded in death by his son, John (2003), and daughter, Elizabeth (2015). Joe was a loving and devoted husband and father who also gave back to his community after his retirement from the then Martin Marietta industrial company (Middle River, Maryland), where he worked in financial management. He led tax preparation volunteer work for the elderly and disabled; or-
WORLD WAR II Continued from Page 56 Of those captured, 286 finally returned to Spain on April 2, 1954, after Stalin’s death. La División Azul was the most decorated unit in Spanish history. The Spanish soldiers were awarded 138 Iron Crosses, 2,359 Iron Crosses Second Class, eight Cruzes Laureadas de San Fernando (the Spanish equivalent to the Medal of Honor) and 44 Medallas Militares (the Spanish equivalent to the Silver Star). In addition to the Knight’s Cross awarded to Gen. Muñoz Grandes, one was also awarded to Gen. Infantes y Martin, (although without the Oak Leaves) who was also promoted to Lt. general upon his return to Spain. Both generals also received the German Cross of Gold. Hitler said that La División Azul was, “...equal to the best German ones.” Next week: Smolensk Mr. Wimbrow writes from Ocean City, Maryland, where he practices law representing those persons accused of criminal and traffic offenses, and those persons who have suffered a personal injury through no fault of their own. He can be contacted at: wimbrowlaw@gmail.com.
chestrated activities at the Senior Citizen Center in Dundalk, Maryland; served remotely for five years as the treasurer for the USS Yorktown Foundation based in Charlestown, South Carolina, the USS decommissioned aircraft carrier (CV-10) where he served in the US Navy during the later end of WWII Pacific theater war, and bravely fought in combat as a bombardier on a dive bomber; and volunteered for two years at the Atlantic General Hospital visiting patients, to include bringing flowers to their rooms. The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin, Maryland, is handling his body’s cremation, per Joe’s wishes. His ashes will be laid to rest at a future private celebration of life memorial ceremony at the Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Dagsboro, Delaware. His remains will be lovingly placed besides those of beloved wife, Mary, his son, John, and his daughter, Elizabeth. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joe’s name to Coastal Hospice (https://coastalhospice.org) or to the USS Yorktown Foundation (https://ussyorktownfoundation.org) , both 501 (C) 3 charitable organizations. Letters of condolence may be sent via the Burbage Funeral Home (https://burbagefuneralhome.com), 108 William Street, Berlin, Maryland 21811.
JOHN STATON WHALEY, JR. Berlin John Staton Whaley, Jr., age 88, died on Monday, June 28, 2021, at his home in Berlin. Born in Salisbury, he was the son of the late John Staton Whaley, Sr., and Willa Mae (Hayes) Whaley. He is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Gail Jarvis WhaJohn Whaley ley; son, John Staton Whaley, lll, and his wife, Jilian of Berlin; and grandchildren, Staton Alexander Whaley of Berlin, and Kendall Suzanne Whaley of Berlin. Mr. Whaley attended the Loomis School in Windsor, Connecticut, where he received the Batchelder Prize, and was president of the Student Council. He was a graduate of Princeton University, Class of 1954, where he was a member of the Ivy Club. John served as a 1st lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps from 1954-1958.
In West Ocean City he developed the subdivision he named Captain’s Hill. With his friend Daniel Trimper Vl, he built the first condominiums in Ocean City. John built many oceanfront townhouses and oceanfront buildings. Among these were Beachwalk, Beach Place North, Beachloft, and Beachmark. He built the first “high-rise” building in Ocean City, High Point South. He built High Point North and Pyramid. He was a member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Berlin, and was an active sports fisherman on his boat the “Curlew.” A graveside service was held on Tuesday, July 6, 2021, at the Whaley Cemetery in Whaleyville, Maryland. The Rev. Michael Moyer officiated. A donation in his memory may be made to: Coastal Hospice, P.O. Box 1733, Salisbury, Maryland 21804; or Atlantic General Hospital, 9733 Healthway Dr., Berlin, Maryland 21811. Letters of condolence may be sent via: www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of the Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin.
OBITUARY NOTICES Submitted Obituary Notices are $50.00 for print and online publications E-mail: editor@oceancitytoday.net Mail: Ocean City Today, P.O. Box 3500, Ocean City, Md. 21843 Fax: 410-723-6511 Obituary Notices are published as space allows. Every effort is made to publish all that are received.
Sports & Recreation www.oceancitytoday.com
Ocean City Today July 9, 2021
Page 58
Ladies take first place in billfish release division By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor (July 9, 2021) The Big Stick/#trappequeens team released two blue marlin and one white to win the billfish release division of the Ocean City Marlin Club’s 39th annual Canyon Kick Off Tournament last weekend – and the anglers, they are all female. “We enjoyed it a lot. We always have a great time together,” said team captain Jackie Tenuto of Berlin. “We want to show that the girls can do it just as good as the boys. Four of the girls are moms, so it’s something the kids can look up to. They have strong, independent moms that can [fish] too.” Tenuto has fished in the Canyon Kick Off for several years. This was the first time with an all-female crew. The group has competed in several ladies-only tournaments, but now they want to branch out and “try to fish with the big boys,” Tenuto said. Tenuto met nearly all of her team members through fishing. Most of the ladies fish together often, while some do a few tournaments here and there. They traveled from along the coast to Ocean City for the competition. The seven on the team for the Canyon Kick Off were: Tenuto, Allison Wigley and Rachel Wehrle both of Stuart, Florida, Natalia Frost (Morehead City, North Carolina), Kristin Lewis (Ocean City), Heather Hourihan (Hunt Valley, Maryland), and Megan McNamara (Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania). On Saturday, Wigley fought a blue marlin for more than three hours. Unfortunately, they had to cut the fish loose before officially recording a release in order to get their daily catch report in on time. Tenuto had already released a blue marlin that day, and the team didn’t want to lose its 150 points. “It was probably about 500 pounds. It was a good one,” Tenuto said. “We had to break it off due to time.” The next day there was another blue marlin bite, and this time, after a 45-50-minute fight, Wigley was able to record an official release. “She got her redemption,” Tenuto said. In addition, Frost recorded a white marlin release. “We started as a ladies team, but
(Top) The members of Big Stick/#trappequeens team took first place in the billfish release division of the Ocean City Marlin Club’s 39th annual Canyon Kick Off Tournament, held last weekend. Pictured, kneeling, from left, are Allison Wigley and Rachel Wehrle, both of Stuart, Florida; and standing from left, Natalia Frost (Morehead City, North Carolina), Kristin Lewis (Ocean City), Heather Hourihan (Hunt Valley, Maryland), Megan McNamara (Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania) and Jackie Tenuto (Berlin). (Bottom) The Big Stick/#trappequeens team released two blue marlin (Allison Wigley and Jackie Tenuto) and one white (Natalia Frost) during the competition.
we wanted to show we can compete with the boys too, and that we’re just as good as the boys are,” Tenuto said. Tenuto and Frost are the original members of the team, then several women joined in, starting with Wigley and then Wehrle. The team name came about during a fishing tournament in Costa Rica in February 2019. Tenuto and Frost were fishing on the boat Tuna Trappe, and the group needed a team name. Tenuto took the word Trappe from the boat and after hearing the song, “Trap Queen” by Fetty Wap, came up with #trappequeens. “It’s the first boat we ever fished on together as a ladies team,” she said. The team now uses that for every tournament it competes in. The group also has an Instagram page, @trappequeens_sportfishing. Tenuto said for 2021 she plans to participate in eight tournaments, including ladies-only events, the Marlin Club’s Heels and Reels and Bahia Marina Tournaments’ Poor Girls Open, with some of her teammates. She will also compete in the White Marlin Open and The MidAtlantic Tournament. The Big Stick/#trappequeens team won See BIG Page 59
PHOTO COURTESY AMANDA SHICK/OCMC
PHOTO COURTESY JACKIE TENUTO
JULY 9, 2021
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Ocean City Today
Ocean City Tuna Tournament Big Stick/#trappequeens to move forward as planned team gets 2 blues, 1 white By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor (July 9, 2021) The annual Ocean City Tuna Tournament will go on as scheduled, with fishing days today, Saturday and Sunday, despite the passing of Tropical Storm Elsa. “It looks like Thursday will be the worst day and maybe into Friday morning, but Saturday and Sunday look fishable, so we thought there was no point in changing anything,” said Tournament co-Director Becca Haskell. Over the past weeks, tuna fishing has been good, then slow, then good again, then slow, but this week leading up to the tournament, many tuna have been caught. Haskell said just from the boats out of the Ocean City Fishing Center alone, numerous tuna have been reeled in. On Sunday, Talkin’ Trash, captained by Chris Little, caught its limit of yellowfin (three per person per day) - 18 total. And on Tuesday, the RoShamBo, captained by Willie Zimmerman, picked up eight yellowfin on its trip, and Haskell said they were all decent size. “The size of yellowfin have definitely gotten bigger over the last few weeks, and boats are catching their limit,” Haskell said. “If they stay around, it could make for good competition.” On July 5, a 250-pound big eye tuna was hooked aboard the Cookie Monster out of Sunset Marina. Big eyes are being caught here and there, Haskell said, and bluefin tuna is hit or miss, she added. There have not been as many bluefin tuna landed as there were in early June, when Haskell said the fishing center was struggling to have enough tags for the bluefin to keep up with the catches. For 2021, tournament fishing is permitted Friday through Sunday, July 911. Anglers will fish two of the three days. Boats can leave either the Ocean City or Indian River inlets. Catches will be weighed at the Ocean City Fishing Center in West
Ocean City from 4-8:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and until 7 p.m. on Sunday. There is no cost to watch the weighins, which are open to the public. There will also be vendors featuring jewelry, art and tournament apparel, set up near the weigh-ins. Prize money will be awarded to the first-, second- and third-heaviest single tuna and the largest total catch weight. Each boat may weigh up to five fish per day to compete for a two-day total pound catch. There is a 30-pound minimum weight requirement for all eligible tournament tuna (yellowfin, bluefin and big eye). Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place in the Park Place Jewelers Ladies Division. A $1,500 award will be presented to the female angler who catches the largest tuna. Prizes of $1,000 and $500 will be distributed to second and third place, respectively. The Yeti Cooler Junior Angler division is for youth 16 and younger. The winner will receive $1,000. Cash prizes of $500 and $250 will be presented to junior anglers who land the secondand third-heaviest fish. There will also be prize money of $2,500, $1,000 and $500 for the first, second- and third-largest dolphin. The minimum weight for dolphin is 20 pounds. Since several wahoo have been caught during the tournament over the years, organizers added a division for the fish in 2016. The calcutta is also available this year. Minimum weight is 20 pounds. For more information about the Tuna Tournament, call 410-213-1121 or visit www.octunatournament.com. Despite being modified a few times due to weather and fishing conditions brought on by Tropical Storm Fay, the 33rd annual Ocean City Tuna Tournament in 2020 was still considered a success. Thirty-two boats were entered and a total of $346,995 was awarded to the winners.
Continued from Page 58 $5,886 for placing first in the Canyon Kick Off. “For me personally, it was extra special to win this with my best girls in the cockpit and my boyfriend [Capt. Ronnie Fields] driving the boat,” Tenuto said. The mates were Brad Wilson and Marshall Freng. The Fish On team came in second place with one blue marlin release. The crew was awarded $1,224. The Brenda Lou team released one white marlin to finish in third place. The Loose Knot team won the tuna division with a 51.6-pound fish. The group received $6,615. The Gret’s Three J’s crew caught a 45-pound tuna as was awarded $999. The team also hooked a 43.6-pound tuna and
took home an additional $666. The only qualifying dolphin was caught aboard Kilo Charlie. The 14.6-pound dolphin was worth $8,280. The turnout for the tournament was lower than usual because of lessthan-stellar offshore weather and rough seas. A total of 23 boats were entered and overall payout to the winners was $23,670. “It turned out well for the small amount of participants,” said Marlin Club President Boz Jefferson. “We probably would of had 60-plus boats if the weather was better, but $20K-plus is not bad considering the number of boats. They still caught fish and everybody had a good time.”
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Ocean City Today
JULY 9, 2021
ON GUARD
Beach patrons should get to know surf rescue technicians By Kristin Joson Contributing Writer (July 9, 2021) Although people refer to them as lifeguards, the men and women responsible for your safety on the beach of Ocean City, are actually known as surf rescue technicians (SRT). Surf rescue technician is the certification level obtained by the men and women in the red bathing suits who watch over the beach in the white stands, once they have successfully completed all testing, training and probation. We encourage beach patrons to introduce themselves to the SRT (lifeguard) and ask about current beach conditions. As you may know, beach conditions may change throughout the day. You never know what you might encounter. So please ask your SRT each day. Once a rookie has earned the title of surf rescue technician you will hear them referred to as SRT Thomas or SRT Warren. Although people still refer to our personnel as lifeguards, the term surf rescue technician if far more appropriate due to the job demands, which far exceed a traditional lifeguard. Each SRT has demonstrated competency in the techniques and skills that are required for open water rescue. Their duties include educating the public, warning swimmers of potential dangers, rescuing distressed swimmers, responding to emergency situations, administering first aid, reuniting lost and found individuals, enforcing city ordinances and most often being the ambassador of Ocean City to our visitors who will approach our SRTs with all types of questions. The Ocean City Beach Patrol is on duty daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. We start guarding the beach the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend (fol-
lowing an annual prayer service) and continue seven days a week through the Sunday after Labor Day, Sunfest weekend (Oct. 3 this year). The Beach Patrol tests potential SRTs beginning in August each year for the next year’s season (2022). If you or someone you know would like to work for the OCBP as a surf rescue technician, there will be pre-employment physical skills evaluations on Saturday, Aug. 7, 11 and 14, and several additional opportunities both in Ocean City and throughout the region (no experience or certifications required). Once a candidate passes the physical skills test, they are appointed to a 65-hour, paid Surf Rescue Academy. We are looking for physically able, ambitious and responsible men and women who are 16 years of age or older. They must be 17 by the first date of employment, unless they have successfully completed all 4 levels of the Junior Beach Patrol program. Many people are surprised to know that we do not require past experience or previous certifications to try out; simply because there is no certification that we feel prepares our candidates to do the job that we require. Therefore, we test every candidate to assure they have the ability to run in soft sand, swim in ocean water, enter and exit the ocean through the surf, move an unconscious person of 150 pounds, swim for 400 meters, hear and locate a whistle blast from 300 meters, and speak and read the English language. To demonstrate these abilities each candidate must pass all aspects of an eleven phase Pre-Employment Physical Skills Evaluation, which begins with an English proficiency test, followed by rigorous physical testing elements consisting of different phases in succession that include a 300-meter soft sand run in under 65 seconds, 400-meter ocean swim in
PHOTO COURTESY KRISTIN JOSON/OCBP
Sgt. Steve DeKemper, an 18-year veteran of the Ocean City Beach Patrol and a teacher from Indiana, assists with training the rookies during the recent Surf Rescue Academy.
less than 10 minutes, simulated rescues in the surf with a rescue buoy, victim removal techniques, runswim-run medley, tower transport (lifeguard stand), holds and releases (escaping from a panicked victim), and lastly an interview with Beach Patrol, Capt. Butch Arbin. It is indeed a long day of physical and mental testing. If you were down at the inlet beach or any of the beaches down south this past week or a couple of weeks ago you might have seen firsthand our rookies in Surf Rescue Academy I or II. Once a candidate completes and passes all phases of the test they are appointed, on a probationary basis, to a Surf Rescue Academy. Prior to entering academy, (and each year after), each employee must pass a drug test. During academy candidates receive instruction in open water rescues, beach patrol policies and procedures, basic oceanography, use of rescue equipment, first aid, CPR, semaphore communications (a series of signals using flags), radio protocol, and physical training consistent with the demands of the job. All phases of surf rescue academy must be completed successfully as determined by the Ocean City Beach Patrol Surf Rescue Association to earn SRT rank and assignment to the beach.
Surf rescue academy is an eightday, 65 hour, paid-training program conducted by beach patrol instructors with support from other public safety agencies, followed by three weeks of supervised, on-the-job probation and a surf rescue academy requalifying test where candidates must pass the run and the swim again. Because of the uniqueness of the job’s demands, the Ocean City Beach Patrol does not accept certification or experience with other agencies. All aspects of becoming an SRT, as well as all certifications such as first aid, Stop the Bleed, CPR and AED are completed during surf rescue academy. Returning SRTs are drug tested, re-qualified (run and swim) and recertified each year. Now that you know what goes into the making of a surf rescue technician, you can feel confident when swimming under their watch. Our SRTs want to help you remain safe and enjoy your time in Ocean City. Don’t wait until you need help to meet your “lifeguard.” Make it a point introduce yourself and your family and ask about the current beach conditions. Your lifeguard will also know about the free family activities that are offered in Ocean City. They are happy to answer any questions that you may have. See SRTs Page 61
JULY 9, 2021
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Ocean City Today
SURF REPORT
ON GUARD
Fascination with sharks discussed
SRTs go through rigorous training, education cycle
By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer (July 9, 2021) Sharks have probably been a fascination to mankind since time immemorial. The National Geographic Channel will often feature shows on sharks. Plenty of books have been written on the subject and you can be sure that an abundance of information can be found on the internet. I’ve often been asked what I know of sharks or what information is available regarding them in the local area. They are certainly thought of as denizens of the deep and the not so deep. Though they are not at the very top of the ocean food chain, sharks are close to it. As the proverbial sea monster they can absolutely qualify. I can remember surfing alone across the Ocean City inlet at the northern most point of Assateague Island, when out of the corner of my eye I saw a fin break the water’s surface. It didn’t freak me out, but did give me a start and, as you can imagine, grabbed my attention.
The quick realization was that it was a mother dolphin with a youngster by its side. A shark attack would not be good anywhere, never mind at the Wedge as it was, and still is, known. I’m sure my sigh of relief could be heard all the way across the inlet. As far as local knowledge goes, what I hear from people that boat out to sea is that there are plenty of sharks out there. They tend to not venture into shore though because they are well fed, once again, out there. This is key I think because sharks as well as other animals of the land and sea are always looking for something to eat. Shark stories abound. Most have heard of punching one in the snout, if during an encounter one would have the presence of mind to do so to ward off the beast. The most amazing story I have heard was told just a few weeks ago. While doing ding repair duty on the front porch of the shop an acquaintance of mine told me of a friend of his who was bumped by a tiger shark while surfing in Hawaii. The surfer ended up jumping on the sharks back, “riding” it for almost 10 yards! Apparently the shark felt
enough resistance it didn’t want any part of the surfer. The surfer finally let go and the shark swam away. The guy happened to be from Texas. I don’t know if the “Texan” had any experience busting broncos or if it would even matter but it served to enhance the story. The teller of the tale swore up and down that the story was true. Tiger sharks are abundant in Hawaii and are known to be aggressive. This too enhanced what was probably the biggest “fish tale” I have ever heard. Here’s the bottom line for you. Years ago I had the privilege of taking a Scuba course and became certified. During the course there was a segment on sharks. This perked up the few of us in the class, as we paid strict attention. All the instructor had to say was, “The only thing we know about sharks is that we don’t know anything about them.” That was it! This didn’t satisfy me but it did illustrate a very good point. Sharks are anything but predictable. It’s best to stay away if there is any notion of one or more lurking around, but unless that’s the case, enjoy your water activities.
Continued from Page 60 It’s also a good idea to introduce your children. We want them to feel comfortable if they get lost or have any questions. We pride ourselves on being the town’s ambassadors; after all, we are glad you are here! To help us keep you safe, always check in with the surf rescue technician on duty and if you hear a SRT blowing their whistle stop what you are doing and look at the SRT. They may be trying to get your attention because they know or see something that you are unaware of. Most importantly for the safety of you and your family, remember our slogan, “Keep your feet in the sand, until the lifeguard’s in the stand!” This simple tip could save a life – yours or someone you care about!!! Sure, they live there and we are just visiting but statistics show that a lot of other situations are much more dangerous. – Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop
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Calendar Submit calendar items to: editor@oceancitytoday.net. Submission deadline is 5 p.m. Monday, the week of publication. Local submissions have priority. Area event listings are subject to space availability.
Fri., July 9
Sun., July 11
DEADLINE TO REGISTER FOR 4TH ANNUAL OCEAN CITY FILM CHALLENGE
SUNDAES IN THE PARK
Filmmakers must register for the challenge by July 9 at https://forms,gle/pKGGeo(sbPwDBYa7. Complete rules and entry details are available at http://www.ocmdfilmfestival.com/ocean-city-film-challenge. Additional information: 410-524-9433.
Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 7-9 p.m. Enjoy free music and each week children are offered various free activities and entertainment. Ice Cream and beverages available for purchase. Followed by the new drone show. https://www.ococean.com.
OC DRONE SHOW MARYLAND CRAB CAKE DINNER
Stevenson United Methodist Church, 123 N. Main St., Berlin, 4-6:30 p.m. Carryout only. Cost is $12 for a platter with one crab cake, $20 for a platter with two crab cakes and $8 for a single sandwich. There will be a bake table. https://www.stevensonchurch.org/contact. 410-641-1137
Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 9-9:30 p.m. Come experience Ocean City’s new drone show. https://www.ococean.com/events/ocdrone-shows2021
Mon., July 12 TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY MEETING
ANNUAL BATHTUB RACES
Berlin Main Street, Berlin, 6-8 p.m. The parade will begin at 6 p.m. with races starting at 6:15 p.m. There will also be a Kid Zone with arts and crafts. https://berlinchamber.org/events/bathtub-races/, 410-641-4775
Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 5-6:30 p.m. Meeting in-person and via conference call. For call-in option, dial 605-472-5789, wait for voice command, then press 944874. Support and educational group. Rose Campion, 443-8808884
MOVIE ON THE BEACH
27th Street Beach, Ocean City, 8:30 p.m. Featuring “Sonic The Hedgehog.” Weather permitting. Ocean City Recreation & Parks, 410-250-0125, http://www.oceancitymd.gov
Sat., July 10 OCEAN PINES ANGLERS CLUB MEETING
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, Berlin, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Cpl. Gina Tyler and Dr. Roman Jesien will discuss bay dredging, water quality and more. Angler members will provide updates on current fishing issues. All welcome. Jack Barnes, 410-641-7662
MARYLAND BASIC BOATING SAFETY COURSE
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, Berlin, 6-9 p.m. Cost is $20 for all three evenings, July 12-14. Register: Barry Cohen, 410935-4807, CGAUXOC@gmail.com
Calvary United Methodist Church, 8607 Ironshire Station Road, Berlin, 10:30 a.m. Sandwiches cost $9. Platters cost $12 and include one side and one soda. Info: Tom, 443-783-6024.
CAPTAIN CRAIG SWIM
14th Street and beach, Ocean City, 6 p.m. Competitors will swim a measured mile to a finish line located at 14th Street and the beach. The Ginny Craig quarter mile swim will also finish in the area of 14th Street. 410-289-7556
ter: www.worcesterlibrary.org under events. 410-632-2600
UNCLE TYRONE KID’S COMEDIAN OUTDOOR PROGRAM
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, Berlin, 2-3 p.m. Uncle Ty-Rone is a ventriloquist, puppeteer and kid’s comedian with a hilarious act that inspires kids to reach their goals through reading. Register: www.worcesterlibrary.org under events. 410-632-2600
PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP
The Macky & Pam Stansell House Coastal Hospice, 1500 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines, 3:15-4 p.m. Group provides discussions and mutual support, as well as education on exercise, nutrition, coping techniques and more. To reserve: Kay Kinnikin, 410-641-4765, kkinnikin@atlanticgeneral.org
FAMILY BEACH GAMES
27th Street Beach, Ocean City. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free interactive fun for the whole family. Games include sand castle contests, tug-of-war, relays and more. Parents must stay with their children. Weather permitting. http://www.ococean.com
SECOND CANDIDATE FORUM
Ocean Pines Golf Club, 100 Clubhouse Drive, Ocean Pines, 7-9 p.m. Candidates this year are Frank Daly, Stuart Lakernick, David C. Hardy and Richard Farr. To submit questions for the forum, email elections@oceanpines.org. www.oceanpines.org, 410-641-7717
ATLANTIC COAST SPORTFISHING ASSOCIATION MONTHLY MEETING
American Legion Post 123, Old Ocean City Blvd., 7:30 p.m. Dave Wilson will be speaking on the current status of wind energy. Guest are welcome. Ron Smith, smitty3894@aol.com
MOVIE ON THE BEACH
27th Street Beach, Ocean City, 8:30 p.m. Featuring “Playing With Fire.” Weather permitting. Ocean City Recreation & Parks, 410-250-0125, http://www.oceancitymd.gov
Tues., July 13 FIRST ANNUAL CANOE RACE
OYSTER FRITTERS & FISH FRY FUNDRAISER
JULY 9, 2021
Ocean City Today
Atlantic Beach House, 115 75th St., Ocean City, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Cash prizes, drink specials and free T-shirts for participants. Cost is $100 per team of four. Pre-register: www.abhcanoerace.com. 410-524-7575
UNCLE TYRONE KID’S COMEDIAN OUTDOOR PROGRAM
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., Berlin, 10:3011:30 a.m. Uncle Ty-Rone is a ventriloquist, puppeteer and kid’s comedian with a hilarious act that inspires kids to reach their goals through reading. Regis-
Wed., July 14 UNCLE TYRONE KID’S COMEDIAN INDOOR PROGRAM
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 10-11 a.m. Uncle Ty-Rone is a ventriloquist, puppeteer and kid’s comedian with a hilarious act that inspires kids to reach their goals through reading. Register: www.worcesterlibrary.org under events. 410-632-2600
OPEN AIR JOB FAIR
Elks Lodge #1624, 1944 Worcester Highway, Pocomoke City, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Employers offering competitive wages and signing bonuses will be accepting applications and hiring onsite. Come prepared to apply and interview. Takes place rain or shine. jtrieu@co.worcester.md.us, 410-632-3110
ZOOM WITH YOUR BABY
Meeting via Zoom, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Babies under 2 and caregivers join in for songs, rhymes and stories. Optional: have a scarf and rattle/shaker handy. Register: www.worcesterlibrary.org under events. 410-632-2600
TEEN CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOP WITH HONOR MCELROY
Meeting via Zoom, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Write, collaborate, share and explore publication opportunities. Bring your poetry, song lyrics, drawings woven with words, stories and more. Register: www.worcesterlibrary.com under events. 410-632-2600
MOVIE ON THE BEACH
Carousel Hotel, 11700 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 8:30 p.m. Featuring “Ugly Dolls.” Weather permitting. Ocean City Recreation & Parks, 410-250-0125, http://www.oceancitymd.gov
Thurs., July 15 CPAP MASK FITTING
Atlantic General Hospital Sleep Disorders Diagnostic Center, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin. Free mask fitting clinic for patients who are having trouble adjusting to their CPAP equipment. Appointment required: Robin Rohlfing, 410-641-9726.
FAMILY BEACH GAMES
Carousel Hotel, 11700 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free interactive fun for the whole family. Games include sand castle contests, tug-of-war, relays and more. Parents must stay with their children. Weather pending. http://www.ococean.com.
CONCERT IN THE PARK
Cypress Park, 7 Bridge St., Pocomoke City, 7-8:30 p.m. Featuring “Coastal Sound.” Pack a picnic and bring lawn chairs. Admission is free. downtownpocomoke.com, 410-957-1333, Ext. 111
SUNSET PARK PARTY NIGHTS
Sunset Park, 700 S. Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 7-9 p.m. Featuring “Saved by Zero” (80’s cover band). Admission to the park is free, while beverages, including beer, are available for purchase. Bring your own seating. http://www.ocdc.org, 410-289-7739
OC BEACH DANCE PARTY
Caroline St. Stage, 2 N. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 7:30-9:30 p.m. A DJ hits the Caroline Street Stage where attendees can dance under the lights on the beach. Followed by the new drone show at 9:30 p.m. 410-250-0125
OC DRONE SHOW
North Division Street Beach, Ocean City, 9:30-10 p.m. Come experience Ocean City’s new drone show. https://www.ococean.com/events/ocdrone-shows2021.
JULY 9, 2021
Ocean City Today
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JULY 9, 2021
Ocean City Today
CLARION RESORT FONTAINEBLEAU HOTEL OCEANFRONT 10100 COASTAL HIGHWAY
VOTED 2019
410.524.3535 WWW.CLARIONOC.COM
WINNER of the Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence for 15 Years and The Best of Excellence Award for 10 years!
LIVE MUSIC 7-Midnight
Friday, July 9 & Saturday, July 10
OCEANFRONT DINING Open Daily 7am - 10pm 410-524-7500
Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Including Lite Fare & Steamer Specials
NEW CENSATION Friday, July 16 & Saturday, July 17
FIRST CLASS
1 lb. Alaskan Crab Legs 2 lb. Alaskan Crab Legs with an Ear of Corn
2650
$
45
$
with 2 Ears of Corn
OPEN DAILY 11AM
FIRST CLASS Fri. July 9 - Sun. July 11
5PM-10PM
½ lb. Steamed Shrimp ½ lb. Alaskan Crab Legs
1 lb. Steamed Shrimp in Old Bay® & Onions
2525
$
with an Ear of Corn
2650
$
OPEN DAILY 11AM Breakers Pub Best Craft Beer
ON THE EDGE Mon. July 12 - Sun. July 18
5PM-10PM
Live Acoustic Music by
STEPHEN ANTHONY
Every Friday & Saturday All Summer Noon-4PM
Check Out
Happy Hour 4-7pm
REDUCED HAPPY HOUR DRINK PRICES
375
$
Domestic Beers Rail Drinks House Wines
3
$
Select Drafts
425
$
Margaritas
9 HI-DEF TVs 6AM - ‘TIL