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NOVEMBER 19, 2021
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Tourism department to get huge overhaul Director gets council’s OK for new hires, realignment of existing staff positions By Greg Wehner Staff Writer (Nov. 19, 2021) When Ocean City officials agreed to hire Tom Perlozzo as the director of tourism and business development, their intent was to strengthen the resort town as a yearround destination while also creating a dynamic and coordinated team to lead the efforts. Perlozzo was also charged with putting together a strategy to achieve the goal of developing a destination marketing organization. On Monday, Perlozzo showed City
Council members the direction he wants the department to take, and they responded with a 6-0 endorsement of an ambitious plan that entails the realignment of the tourism department and the addition of several new positions. “There’s three strategic elements that we’re requesting approval of, based upon your vision of tourism and business development,” Perlozzo told council. The first of those elements, he said, is the approval to advance the internal destination marketing team by realigning some current positions. For example, the administrative assistant would become a full-time position instead of part-time, and the See TOURISM Page 10
Housing critical to return of international workforce GREG ELLISON/OCEAN CITY TODAY
VETERANS DAY
Isabella Sbriglia with Scout Troop 621, preforms Taps, along side Color Guard members Glen Reely, left, and Michael Higdon to end the Veterans Day ceremony at American Legion Post #166 in Ocean City on Thursday.
Body cam overload State’s Attorney Heiser tells county timely processing of videos requires bigger staff By Jack Chavez Staff Writer (Nov. 19, 2021) Worcester County State’s Attorney Kristin Heiser made the case to the county commissioners on Tuesday that her office is going to struggle to keep up if the county’s 12
law enforcement agencies implement body-worn camera footage ahead of the 2025 state mandate. Appearing during the commissioner’s meeting with Worcester County Sheriff Matt Crisafulli, Heiser said that the unfunded mandate has strong potential to burden her understaffed office and that moving up the schedule, as some towns such as Ocean City want to do, would only See HEISER Page 4
J1 student recruiters say program jeopardized by lack of suitable quarters By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer (Nov. 19, 2021) Before covid and the uptick of Airbnb and VRBO rentals, Ocean City was a place that could comfortably house thousands of seasonal workers, many of whom traveled overseas to fill out employee rosters. Now, as the effects of the pandemic linger and property owners are enticed by higher dollars signs associated with weekly online vacation rentals, the local living quarters supply is dwindling, and the organizations tasked to bring foreign workers to the resort are wondering if they need to look into alternative spots.
Last week, United Work and Travel, one of several groups that places J1 and H2B foreign workers in resort towns for summer seasons, issued a letter to Mayor Rick Meehan asking for support in finding a solution to the impending housing shortage for summer 2022. “Many of our program landlords have either sold, updated to weekly VRBO/AirBnB rentals or are no longer renting seasonally to international students,” the letter said. “Others are requesting more than $2,500 in seasonal rent for BridgeUSA students. With the wages that are being offered by town employees, which are fair wages, seasonal rent in excess of $2,500 does not make sense for many BridgeUSA students. They will simply choose to participate in other seasonal areas of the USA, where the See HOUSING Page 8
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Ocean City Today
NOVEMBER 19, 2021
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Ocean City Today
Most visitors perceive Ocean City as positive By Greg Wehner Staff Writer (Nov. 19, 2021) Everyone has their own perception of what Ocean City is. For some, it could be a place of nostalgia, filled with memories going back generations, and for others it could be a place for kicking back and relaxing on the beach or taking a stroll up and down the boards. According to a study conducted by Opinion Works LLC 91 percent of the more than 5,500 people surveyed have had positive experiences in Ocean City resulting in a favorable perception, while the other 9 percent had a negative perception of the resort. “People think perception is reality,” Ocean City Director of Tourism and Business Development Tom Perlozzo told the tourism commission on Monday just before the perception study results were revealed. “We are now attempting to turn a page on that chapter. We’re no longer writing a blank check for our tourism and marketing efforts.” Perlozzo said one of the key components to moving Ocean City into becoming a year-round resort for tourists from 2022 to 2023 and beyond was understanding people’s perception. Steve Raabe, the president of Opinion Works, said the report he was presenting was a draft, and while many things in it could be wrong, they were how visitors perceived Ocean City to be. The purpose of the study was to define the resort’s core market, identify new market opportunities, highlight Ocean City’s strengths, and uncover its weaknesses. “This is audience perception, which
does not always match the reality of what you are delivering,” Raabe said. Perception, he added, drives decision making of potential visitors as well as where they plan to spend their money. For the study, Opinion Works intercepted 221 visitors in Ocean City, interviewed 4,444 people from the tourism database, and 874 members of the general public across the region, totaling 5,539 interviews, between August and October. Surveys were also conducted with meeting and conference planners as well as travel influencers, according to Raabe. Some of the strengths included things like being a fun place, having all the benefits of a beach, giving visitors lots of options to eat and drink, and providing a nostalgic family-friendly experience for multiple generations. On the flip side, some people said the resort area can be very busy and sometimes overcrowded, dated, and limited, pricey, and having a core audience that is somewhat older and working class, with average incomes skewing below $100,000 per year. The resort area also appeals more to the northeast corridor rather than the DC-VA metro area, with Marylanders falling in between. Along with the pricey accommodations, some felt there were far fewer recognizable national chains, missing out on people not familiar with the local brands. Perlozzo said there was an opportunity to improve upon this perception, saying those who visit places like Virginia Beach and Myrtle Beach may be overwhelmed by their larger brands, and Ocean City may appeal more to those folks with boutiques.
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Opinion Works LLC President Steve Raabe presented the results of a perception study to the Ocean City Tourism Commission that was conducted with over 5,500 visitors and influencers and found that 91 percent of the participants had a positive experience or perception of the resort area.
“Ocean City can build on this,” Raabe said. During the survey, participants were asked to describe Ocean City using three words and the results were words like entertaining, clean, beautiful, nice, exciting, family-oriented, crowded, Boardwalk, and safe. Participants were also asked what makes Ocean City special for them, and the results were things like the beach and ocean, good memories, family vacations, activities, and convenience and proximity. The top attraction for visitors was the beach, followed by the Boardwalk, shopping, rides and amusements, and night life. At the bottom were things like golf, tradeshows, and sports tournaments. When asked what makes Ocean City different, one person said, “OC is much more of the vibrant city feel. Cape May is low key, relaxed...even when you drive into Ocean City, it’s the big high rises, and you go down that street that’s got everything to your right, left, and you’re looking
around. You sort of mosey into Cape May.” Another person said, “Beaches and proximity to large East Coast cities for driving,” and another said, “The variety of activities, restaurants, and shopping.” Planners and influencers said there were some key drawbacks of Ocean City that people should be aware of such as run-down hotels, lots of competitors and not enough awareness of the destination, and very congested. Three of the nine comments provided by the influences also dealt with the Boardwalk and the negative publicity surrounding behavior on the boards. “Two Boardwalk comments were hearsay and perception,” Council Secretary Tony DeLuca said, which Raabe suggested could be changed. Of those surveyed, college educated people over 40 with incomes over $100,000 gave fewer positive ratings, while the more positive ratings were from the opposite. See VISITORS Page 6
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NOVEMBER 19, 2021
Ocean City Today
Heiser foresees surge in videos, and staff needs Continued from Page 1 strengthen those chances. “(Body-worn cameras) are an entirely new body-worn of evidence for every single case we prosecute,” Heiser said. “If the state’s attorney is not adequately staffed, we will not meet obligations for discovery standards.” Heiser stressed that she and her office do not have an issue with bodyworn cameras themselves and touted the benefits they could offer when trying a case — it’s about maintaining her office’s efficacy to try and convict cases. She broke down her case into a matter of time: In 2019, Heiser said, her office tried around 25,000 cases. Body-worn camera footage per case averages about one hour, meaning the review of the footage alone would have added 25,000 work hours to her office. Footage reviewers watch the video, prepare it, redact segments where needed and provide the evidence and review to the district attorney by a deadline, typically within 45 days of the charging incident, Heiser said. Currently, the Worcester County office carries the highest caseload per
JACK CHAVEZ/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Worcester County State’s Attorney Kristin Heiser meets with the county commissioners to update them on how prepared her office is for the state mandate that will require body-worn camera footage to be used by police officers at all times. If local police departments go through with plans to implement the new standard before the 2025 deadline, Heiser said her understaffed office may be overrun by the influx of new evidence. She estimated she could start hiring more people next summer at the earliest.
prosecutor in the state. “Once agencies go live with these body-worn camera programs, it’ll be like drinking from a firehose for us, our team at the state’s attorney’s office,” Heiser said. “There would be no way that we can keep up with that.” Another issue would be the com-
petition, since every other Maryland state’s attorney is looking to beef up their staff too. “I’m at the mercy of (what our police stations want to do),” Heiser said. “We will be competing with other counties to hire prosecutors. I don’t want to do that when I know we can’t offer the same salaries as others
across the bridge.” Commissioner Ted Elder asked about citizen subpoenas for bodyworn camera footage and the process that entails. Heiser said “a lot of complications are arising” from that situation. Depending on the nature of the incident, who responded, it could be a Free-
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Ocean City Today
Body cam mandate will generate other costs dom of Information Act (FOIA) request, a state Public Information Act (PIA) request or other possibilities. “We are projecting that these FOIA requests are going to skyrocket,” Crisafulli stepped in to say. Commissioner Chip Bertino showed sympathy to Heiser’s dilemma and laid some responsibility on the Maryland General Assembly, which passed the law mandating that body-worn cameras be implemented by 2025. “I think we should have the leadership of the state legislature come
down and explain themselves because they’re the ones that pushed this through,” Bertino said. “I suspect a lot of the concerns expressed over the years about police conduct in Worcester County will benefit from these cameras more often than not (in showing that), hopefully, 99 percent of the time our officers have done the right thing.” Bertino continued to categorize the idea of a prosecutor “sitting and watching thousands of hours of videos” as a “waste of time.” He asked Heiser for a timeline for her office to
be able to prepare itself. “If every agency’s budget requests are approved in full, everyone’s on the same page with funding, (camera) vendors and deadline, to me the earliest I’ll be able to do it is if I come to you in the next budget cycle (for FY23),” she said. “If it’s approved, starting July 1 I can start recruiting and hiring.” Commissioner Diana Purnell reminded Heiser and the other commissioners that the point of the footage is to secure convictions and that even more factors are considered
when they workshop these budget items. “If we fail, or you fail … of if they don’t have what they need, the cost on the other end could be greater than what we’re looking at,” Purnell said. “The cost factor when we do our work session is to look at that possibility so we know what we’re looking at… the human cost and the financial cost.” “If you lose, you’ll be sued. You know that.” Heiser pointed out that mishandled video will also lead to a loss.
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Ocean City Today
Visitors give city opinion on resort
Trio begins sorting advertising bids
Continued from Page 3 “There’s a core group that is multigenerational,” Raabe said. “They’re spending power may be a little less, but this is how they want to spend their money.” Ultimately, Raabe said he hoped the study would foster more discussion. Perlozzo said the perception study is not closed at this time, but it has sparked a few areas that the city can work on. For example, figuring out how to market to those in the 40 and 50-year-olds and elevating the consumer base to those with a $100,000 household income and above. “We won’t blanket the market with one message,” he said. “We’re going to be proactive, not reactive, as we move forward.”
By Greg Wehner Staff Writer (Nov. 19, 2021) The hunt for a new advertising agency is underway, and after receiving 10 proposals from companies across the country, Ocean City officials plan to narrow the list down to three or five by the end of the week. But since the proposals were submitted on Nov. 1, one company, TBC, has been removed from the running due to a conflict of interest. Initially, the proposals were to be reviewed by members of the Ocean City Tourism Commission and elected officials, though that has been reduced to a trio of individuals. The trio is made up of Director of Tourism and Business Development Tom Perlozzo, Communications and Marketing Director Jessica Waters,
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and Andrea Vernot of Choptank Communications, who was brought on as a consultant to help develop a marketing and branding strategy. On Wednesday, city officials were made aware that the consultant, Vernot, is married to someone with ties to TBC, which submitted a bid for the advertising contract. Mayor Rick Meehan, Council Tom Perlozzo President Matt James, Perlozzo, Waters, and City Solicitor Heather Stansbury met on Thursday morning and decided to remove TBC from the running. Vernot will remain on board as a consultant. Questions regarding the process of selecting an ad agency were prompted earlier this month when the bids submitted in response to the city’s solicitation were announced. The typical proceeding of announcing bids for most projects for the city start with an opening of the envelope, the reading of the company who submitted the bid, and the amount of the bid. When the advertising bids were announced, the amounts were omitted. All 10 packages containing a creative element and pricing element were remanded to staff for review. Miller said earlier this month that the bids were not read out loud because of proprietary information. He also said the packages would be reviewed by members of the tourism commission, or citizens. The late City Solicitor Guy Ayres, however, opined on this very thing, saying the proposals can be restricted to elected officials or open to the public, which includes members of the Tourism Commission – the documents are either open to the public or not. The process has since changed, and will only include Perlozzo, Waters, and Vernot. Still, the question of why the pricing was not provided in open session lingers.
During Monday night’s City Council meeting, Councilman John Gehrig referenced the tourism commission meeting earlier that day, when Waters said the city’s request for proposals were provided on Nov. 1, but the financials were excluded. “Were they not submitted?” James asked Stansbury. “No,” she said. “Mr. Perlozzo brought this to my attention.” Stansbury said she reached out to Miller, who had the day off, and he said he would investigate it ASAP. “I’m hoping it was an oversight and will be corrected for Tom before he needs it,” she added. Gehrig said the city would be deciding on what’s provided in the proposal as well as price. “Right. We need to know what’s included in the price to make sure there’s no duplications in services,” Perlozzo said. Stansbury said she saw no reason why the financials would not be released. On Wednesday, Miller concurred the advertising bid amounts would be released. As the group reviews the bids, he said, it is important for them to review the creative piece first before reviewing the financials to ensure neither influences the other. More than likely, Miller added, the prices associated with each bid will be released when the group is finished with their reviews. Still, there is another piece to this. Although the finalists will be whittled down from 10 to three or five by the end of the week, they are expected to give their presentations to City Council members sometime between the end of the week and Dec. 6 in a closed session. On Dec. 6, according to what Perlozzo said during the tourism commission meeting on Monday, he hopes to have a recommendation of an ad agency for council to approve. “It’s all exciting,” he said. “We’re moving along ... I hope to have the process wrapped up by early December.”
NOVEMBER 19, 2021
Ocean City Today
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OCEAN CITY COUNCIL BRIEFS By Greg Wehner Staff Writer (Nov. 19, 2021) Ocean City Council members met during a regular scheduled meeting on Monday, Nov. 15 and discussed the following items:
organizers. With the applications approval as is, the applicants will be required to pay the city $1,425 in private event fees and $3,018 in asset and support fees for a total of $4,443.
Marlin Fest moves
Alley swap
After two successful years, Marlin Fest could move to the inlet parking lot beach. The event was previously held at the Third Street Park, but because of renovations that are expected to take place at the ball fields next year, organizers are asking to have the event moved. Marlin Fest representatives Sasha Motsko and Madelyn Rowan told the council they want to give spectators an opportunity to watch the White Marlin Open weigh-ins from a remote location away from Harbour Island, where the pelagic beasts are raised on the scale. By having the event at the inlet lot, spectators will be able to watch the boats return from their offshore excursions and watch the weigh-ins on a big screen monitor that will have its back to the ocean. The event will also feature retailers, sponsors, food and truck vendors, and entertainment. Staff members who reviewed the application raised concerns about having alcohol on the beach and the risk of people climbing on the jetty, so with its approval, all have agreed to fence off the event. Mayor Rick Meehan expressed concerns about money lost from parking spaces that would be blocked off during the event and was told once a layout for the Marlin Fest is solidified, staff would have a better idea of how much money the city might lose. That money, as part of the agreement, would be reimbursed by Marlin Fest
City Council members unanimously adopted an ordinance to effect the exchange of a city-owned property between 74th and 75th Streets for another property on the same block. Owners of the new Atlantic Beach House restaurant being built at the former BJ’s on the Water location on 75th Street asked the city close a 100-foot-by-10-foot, east-to-west alley in the southern portion of the property, in exchange for a 10-foot easement in the north-south running alley behind Quiet Storm Surf Shop. A public hearing on the matter was held last month and drew no objections to the deal.
Airport property The city is closer to purchasing two parcels of land just north of the Ocean City Municipal Airport from the Lower Shore Land Trust for $850,000. City Council members approved the first reading of the deal in a 6-0 vote, with Councilman Peter Buas absent from the meeting. If the deal goes through, it will allow for the removal of vertical obstructions such as trees and treetops from the parcel. Because the purchase is eligible for a federal grant, the city is following all Federal Aviation Administration guidelines to ensure those funds can be pursued. If obtained, Director of Public Works Hal Adkins told council, the funds could cover the entire purchase.
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Ocean City is looking to purchase two properties to the north of the Ocean City Municipal Airport for $850,000, all of which could be covered with grants.
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Ocean City Today
NOVEMBER 19, 2021
Housing shortage could stymie J1 program Continued from Page 1 math and program opportunities line up better for their overall experience.” United Work and Travel President Kasey Simon, who sent the letter, said the organization has approved nearly 1,000 jobs so far for workers for the upcoming summer, and secured only 415 beds. He added that United Work and Travel is only one of the organizations that does this work. In total at peak, as many 3,000 or 4,000 seasonal foreign workers could be slated to come to the resort. “There is, my guess, eight or ten sponsors sending J1 … students to Ocean City for the summer months,” Simon said. “All of them are having issues with housing and all of them are faced with, do we hang on and hope there will be a solution? Or do we provide alternative program op-
tions to our participants who would normally have requested or sought out Ocean City, Maryland, and give them opportunities in other seasonal cities that may have additional housing available?” While Simon said he expects more private owners to step up and offer space, he is worried about the lack of housing at this time, which prompted the letter. “When we look at where we are with jobs compared to housing confirmed on Oct. 31, 2021 versus years prior, there’s a significant lag in housing,” he said. “There’s always a lag in housing, but not this great, at this point in time. We just want to let the mayor and the town know, look, May and June is not the time to make a big deal about housing. These employers need to understand, the town needs to understand, that there’s a serious
problem.” And although Simon said he did not receive a response to his letter from the mayor, city officials are aware of the problem. City Manager Doug Miller has been working with members of the Ocean City Chamber of Commerce and other officials to try and facilitate both public and private workforce housing projects for several months. “Some of it’s going to be taken up by the private sector,” he said. “Because those employers that depend on seasonal housing, some of them are going to take the reins in their hand, or the bull by the horns, however you want to say it, and provide seasonal housing.” A larger potential project came to the forefront in May when Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Lachelle Scarlato
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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REQUESTED Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan FY 2023 through FY 2027 Worcester County, Maryland The Worcester County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing on the REQUESTED Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for fiscal year (FY) 2023 through FY2027. The CIP is a planning document the County will use in preparing future operating budgets, to anticipate future financial needs of the County and to identify possible funding resources. Inclusion of a project in the CIP does not constitute a guarantee of funding from the County. Some capital projects will be added, deleted and/or amended as necessary. As with the Operating Budget, the projects for each fund have to be balanced with the resources available in that fund. Copies of the Worcester County REQUESTED Capital Improvement Plan for FY2023 through FY2027 summary may be obtained online at www.co.worcester.md.us. For additional information, please contact the County Administration Office at (410) 632-1194. The public hearing will be held on: Tuesday, December 7, 2021 at 11:00 A.M. in the County Commissioners Meeting Room Room 1101 - Government Center One West Market Street Snow Hill, Maryland 21863
presented plans for a set of residence hall style buildings with nearly 1,000 beds for not only foreign seasonal workers, but summer lifeguards and public safety aides who work for the city. The project, which would come to fruition through a partnership with Wisconsin-based Holtz Builders Inc., has its challenges, though. Miller said the necessary space is the main sticking point. “The issue there is that we have to find a large enough parcel of land,” he said. “And … they depend on their business model that the land be provided at a reduced cost or for free, and that is a difficult situation to meet.” In September, city officials, with help from Ocean City Development Corporation representatives, identified five properties that could possibly accommodate the project. But Miller said nearly all have been disqualified. “There’s one, potentially, but it won’t be ready for this summer because it’s smaller,” he said. And while all hope is not lost for summer 2022, it is not looking promising. “In talking with Dan Bullock of Holtz Builders, he’s saying if he can get a green light by the end of the calendar year he can be ready for the spring,” Miller said of the company’s president. “I mean a lot has to fall into place, an awful lot has to fall into place. But he’s still working at it. The private sector is working toward it.” Miller said he talks every Friday to Bullock to go over the progress of the project. City council members are also all on board and willing to help find solutions, and members of a OCDC workforce housing committee are set to present ideas to help at a Dec. 14 work session. “There may be some good news that comes out of that,” Miller said. Miller added that he thinks the situation will improve before summer 2023, but he is not so sure about 2022. “I’m confident for the season of 2023, between the private sector and maybe the quasi-public sector, we’ll be in better shape,” he said. “The summer of ’22 is probably going to be a little difficult because we’re only seven, eight months away from that.” Overall, Simon said he wants to find a solution to the issue so that organization officials do not have to direct their clients to other locations. “The purpose of my letter was not, ‘Hey shame on you town of Ocean City,’” he said. “It was more, hey guys, we’ve been doing this so long let’s put our heads together, and we need some immediate solutions so the town can succeed in 2022.’”
OceanCityToday.com
NOVEMBER 19, 2021
Ocean City Today
MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY
A commercial parking lot at 205 Dorchester St. is tapped to welcome a 10-room, three-and-a-half story seasonal workforce housing building with capacity to accommodate 84 people. The private developer received approval recently to waive all parking requirements for the project.
Private seasonal workforce housing gets parking waiver By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer (Nov. 19, 2021) A project that could eventually put a small dent in Ocean City’s workforce housing shortage took its first step toward reality last week. As city officials race against the clock to try to bring a large dormitory-style project to a not-yet-discovered public space, a private developer is making strides to build a threeand-a-half-story, 11-room structure on Dorchester Street that would house 84 seasonal workers. The 5,000 square-foot lot, currently used for commercial parking, is nestled between two modest buildings at 205 Dorchester St. near the inlet. The developer aims to create housing for J-1 work and travel students, H-2B Nonimmigrant Temporary workers, American college students, and anyone else classified as a seasonal worker. And in order to make it happen, they needed a waiver from the Board of Zoning Appeals for all of the parking city code requires. Zoning Administrator Kay Gordy said during a zoning board meeting on Nov. 10 that no specific language exists for regulating workforce housing, so she classified the units as rooming, boarding or lodging houses to allow the developer to waive the 16-space parking requirement. “This is standalone workforce housing and we know that in the Town of Ocean City that’s a great desire for us to be able to accomplish that,” she said. After some discussion, which included easing concerns about the project’s density and lack of space for vehicles, members of the zoning board unanimously approved the parking waiver request. Chairman Alfred Harrison asked how 84 people would fit in 11 rooms, one of which is designated for an onsite manager. Harry How, a co-founder of architect MAD Design Group, said that
while the measurements are “tight,” city code allows for 70 square feet for every two people and 10 feet of closet space, which works out with the proposed size of the building. Board members also voted to include a condition requiring that all of the residents not only would not have vehicles on the premises, but would not have them in town at all. The condition works out because most, if not all, of the residents expected to live in the building will be foreign students and other overseas workers who would not have cars. Members of the Ocean City Development Corporation also presented a set of conditions — including abiding by the organization’s design standards, providing a space for an onsite manager, having plenty of bicycle racks and allowing only in-town employees to reside in the building — that were also approved as part of the waiver. Glenn Irwin, OCDC executive director, said in an email that another similar project is also in the works down the street at 104 Dorchester St. That project will have 54 beds and will be ready for spring 2022. The project at 205 may have to wait a little longer, though. Following the zoning board approval, it still has to go through several more steps, including a site plan review, before it becomes a reality. Ann Marie Conestabile, the program director for United Work and Travel, testified during the Nov. 10 meeting about the need for this type of housing in Ocean City. The organization is one of several that places student and other foreign workers in the resort, and with covid and other challenges over the past few years, the amount of properties available to house the workers has been slim. “My frustration is, I bring anywhere from 1,100 to 1,500 students every season,” she said. “This year, I’m allowed to bring anywhere from 1,125 to 1,150. I have 200 beds.”
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Tourism office to become major department Continued from Page 1 director of marketing communications would report directly to Perlozzo. Perlozzo also asked to bring the special events department, marketing and communications, and the convention center under tourism and business development organizational umbrella. “I’m very sensitive to the existing staff, but I believe with clear direction, a mission, and some strategy, we can make a difference,” he said. The third element Perlozzo sought approval of several new hires next year. The first of these would be a director of sales, a public relations specialist, and a social and digital media coordinator. By April 2022, he added, he wants to bring on an advertising and research specialist, a graphic designer and brand manager, and a sports marketing and event manager. “I want you to also keep in mind that some of the functions that are currently listed in the job description are being funded by the ad agency contract,” Perlozzo said. “It will now be moved internally and give us the opportunity to succeed and provide some best practices in the industry.” One such position that is being jobbed out to an ad agency at a fairly
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Ocean City Director of Tourism and Business Development Tom Perlozzo proposed a restructure of his department that would move special events, marketing and communications, the finance manager, convention center and a new director of sales to directly report to him. Perlozzo is also seeking six new positions to be added to his team.
high cost is the social media management, Perlozzo said. He said that expense is sufficient to cover the cost of an in-house social media specialist,
with money left over to help pay for ome of the other positions. Councilman Lloyd Martin, while on board with promoting Ocean City as a year-round family destination, expressed reservations, saying he wanted to make sure the money used to hire these new positions came from the advertising fund and not the general fund. “I just want to make sure the money’s coming from the right pocket,” he said. “If we take it from the ad agency, I want to make sure the ad agency money is going for them and not coming out of the general fund.” Perlozzo said his aim is to hire the kind of people who can provide the services that will result in the desired outcome. That outcome would be a thriving business community of hotels, motels, restaurants and condos, low property tax, increased revenue from the room tax, off-season development, and potential weekday business at the convention center on 40th Street. “I think this is the current path we need to take in 2022,” Perlozzo said. Summarizing Perlozzo’s request, Councilman Tony DeLuca said he is seeking five people who report to him — the special events director, marketing and communications director, finance manager, convention center director, and the newly created director of sales.
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The department would also hire three positions before the end of the year and before the new ad agency, which is yet to be chosen, begins providing services to the city. Ocean City resident Vince Gisriel told the council that when the tourism director position was announced, he figured the department would need to hire 20 or more employees and asked at the time how it would be funded. But on Monday, he said, he never anticipated the growth of the department to have six new positions in place by next year with a combined estimated salary of $560,000 when considering the basic starting salaries and benefits. Some of the positions, like the director of sales, would be responsible for training employees, as would the director of marketing and communications. “How big will this department grow?” he asked. “How many staff will be added to that department?” Gisriel said he did not think advertising was a function of government, nor was the business of tourism, adding that good restaurants and entertainment bring people to Ocean City. DeLuca replied, “This will create a tourism synergy that will strengthen Ocean City as a year-round tourist destination.” The rest of the council, with Councilman Peter Buas absent, agreed.
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NOVEMBER 19, 2021
Ocean City Today
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
This picture, taken from the deck of the Emma McCall, shows the Allison during the open-water incident that has drawn in state departments and local elected officials. Jimmy Hahn, owner of the Allison, and the crew of the McCall offer conflicting reports as to who was the aggressor and what intentions were during the fracas on Nov. 1.
Wind industry still embroiled in controversy with watermen By Jack Chavez Staff Writer (Nov. 19, 2021) Local fishermen, wind energy representatives and now local elected officials and state departments are searching for the answers that will allow cohabitation between newcomers to the coastal waters and those who have called the area home for generations. Earlier this month, a research vessel contracted by US Wind and a ship owned by local fisherman Jimmy Hahn squared off several miles offshore while the research vessel — the Emma McCall — allegedly trolled through conch pots that Hahn had deployed. After last week when US Wind representatives seemed to be cooperating with Hahn, there has been some pushback now from the crew of the McCall. One crew member, who asked to remain anonymous to protect his position as a contractor, was indignant over the characterization that the larger McCall was bullying the Allison, Hahn’s boat. Ocean City Today reviewed and confirmed his credentials as an experienced contractor who was on board the McCall during the standoff. “Before the incident happened, we first tried to survey in (our lease area) but it was too rough. We then tried to work … from the northwest corner of the lease area heading northwest but found buoys,” the contractor said. “There were no buoys anywhere to be seen in this area.” He said those who were on the
bridge of the McCall had an excellent vantage point of what was occurring. The contractor said the Allison prevented their leaving, which directly contradicts Hahn’s account that the McCall wouldn’t leave despite pleas to do so. The contractor also disputed that the pots were damaged and that it could be as many as 250 pots. “No pots were destroyed that day or throughout my time on the McCall,” he said. “I find 250 hard to believe. I was thinking, if we did (destroy any pots), maybe a couple dozen at most.” Hahn refuted the idea that the McCall was trying to leave and at one point requested that the anonymous contractor be asked, if you were leaving, why did it take 90 minutes to haul their gear after they were told, and why didn’t they go east, which would have indicated they were trying to leave? In the aftermath, there was also confusion as to whether the McCall had permission to be where Hahn encountered it. US Wind External Affairs Director Nancy Sopko said the McCall did have full approval from the federal government to conduct survey operations in and around US Wind’s lease, including that area. “As we explained previously, we have regularly coordinated our survey activities with local fishermen to try to avoid areas where they are fishing,” Sopko said in an email. “That coordination often involves voluntarily See CREWS Page 12
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Ocean City Today
NOVEMBER 19, 2021
Discussions continue in conch pot quarrel By Jack Chavez Staff Writer (Nov. 19, 2021) The incident in which a US Wind-contracted vessel and local fisherman Jimmy Hahn squared off on the open sea has resulted in discussion after discussion between the parties involved — Hahn with US Wind, US Wind with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, elected officials with watermen — and the dialog continues. A meeting last week between US Wind and local watermen was canceled. On Nov. 10, Rep. Andy Harris (R1st) met with watermen in Ocean City to discuss the incident and the overall relationship between US Wind and watermen. “The watermen seem to have a very valid issue with U.S. Wind over their survey boat destroying the watermen’s equipment,” Harris said in an email. “ We will help in whatever way we can at the federal level to make sure that this doesn’t happen again, and that US Wind makes much better good faith efforts than they have in the past on this project if they are hoping to go forward with it over the objections of many interested parties.” While he declined to get into specifics, Hahn said after the meeting that Harris and State Sen. Mary Beth
Carozza are “taking action on this matter.” Harris proposed the meeting after hearing that local watermen were losing gear on the open water because of US Wind’s Andy Harris surveying, according to spokesperson Walter Smoloski. Meanwhile, a meeting between local watermen and US Wind was scheduled but ended up not taking place. Sopko said that US Wind did meet with the DNR. “We created a quorum and platform
to go through the data we had surrounding (the incident) and any information that the fisherman had to convey to us. We had a couple of state reps at the meeting but unfortunately the watermen weren’t able to make it.” US Wind also met with Hahn oneon-one, but he said they declined to meet with other watermen as well. He said the meeting was productive, but the future still looks bleak. “The bottom line is they’re bringing two survey boats up here,” Hahn said. “They’ll be surveying all of December and they said they plan on having interactions with our gear.”
While the meeting was productive, the progress on the big picture remains stagnant, Hahn said. “I feel like this is going to be an ongoing problem until either the windmills are shut down or they’re completely built,” he said. “I feel like it’s not only going to affect the commercial watermen but also the sport watermen. They’re going to have closures when they start construction that we can’t navigate through or fish in. When they start bringing all the tugs and barges to make these windmills, if we have any pots in the water they’ll be destroyed and we’ll go out of business.”
Crews at odds over fracas details Continued from Page 11 avoiding certain areas and focusing on other areas.” “There is no question that the Emma McCall had permission under US Wind’s lease and survey plan approved by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management to survey where it was surveying. We are unaware of any argument to the contrary.” Later, Sopko clarified that there was an understanding of sorts between Hahn and US Wind as to where
the McCall should be. “We have permits to allow surveying around lease area. That being said, through our coordination efforts and communications with fisherman, we voluntarily agreed to keep our vessel away from the specific area,” she said. “It doesn’t have to do with permission. We worked out with the fisherman a situation where we would keep our vessel away from a particular area. Bad weather that day caused us to end up where we didn’t intend to be.”
Hahn, responding to all of the contractor’s allegations, made no bones about how he feels. “Well, first off, he wants to stay anonymous. OK. My response to him is that they weren’t supposed to be here and I don’t make this s—- up,” Hahn said. “How do you go through only a couple dozen pots when there are 600 in the water and you’re trolling for hours?” “I asked them for half an hour to pull up their gear and they didn’t.”
NOVEMBER 19, 2021
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Ocean City Today
Lewis Road bid awarded to OP firm By Jack Chavez Staff Writer (Nov. 19, 2021) The Worcester County Commissioners signed off on awarding the contract for the Lewis Road gravity sewer and pump station design to Ocean Pines-based EA Engineering, Science and Technology for $97.056.57 on Tuesday. The bids entailed the completion of the design, permitting, and construction-phase engineering services for the Lewis Road sewer expansion project, which the commissioners voted 4-3 to pursue earlier this year, with Commissioners Ted Elder, Chip Bertino and Jim Bunting having consistently voting to not go through with the project. The gist of their opposition has been that the project is being treated as a special exception, albeit one that is needed, considering the use of the American Rescue Plan Act funding for it while residents who benefitted from similar projects had to pay for it. Bunting and Bertino again showed their opposition on Tuesday as the bid was awarded on a 4-2 majority, with Commissioner President Joe Mitrecic absent. Residents benefitting from a similar project in Newark were saddled with higher rate costs, even though they told the commissioners it would be a hardship for them. A Lewis Road sewer expansion has
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Department of Public Works Director Bob Mitchell meets with the Worcester County Commissioners on Tuesday to recommend the awarding of the Lewis Road sewer extension project facilities bid to EA Engineering, Science and Technology. The project, which will connect residents along Lewis Road to the Landings sanitation service area, has been in the works about 20 years.
been in the works for 20-some years. The project aims to connect long-underserved residents along the road that runs between Sinepuxent Road and Stephen Decatur Highway to the Landings sanitation service area. It will be paid for with a $1.48 million grant and funding from the ARPA. The ARPA money will be used as a stand-in for a $500,000 USDA loan. The project calls for multiple sanitation facilities to be constructed but will also use existing pipelines and a water tower.
“The money is for infrastructure,” Commissioner Diana Purnell said in June. “To infer that Lewis Road (is special) — no one is special. We all work in the county together … You can’t tell me that after 20 years of doing water and sewer in this county, there’s been a time where we’ve done anything for this area. … This is money that’s here, that came in from ARPA so we can use it.” “This is in an area that’s growing by leaps and bounds all around … I think we should use the ARPA money for this very much underserved area.”
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Ocean City Today
ATTENTION
WORCESTER COUNTY RESIDENTS ONLY!!!
Household Hazardous Waste Collection Saturday, November 27, 2021 10 AM-2 PM Collections to be held at
OCEAN CITY PARK & RIDE, RT. 50, WEST OCEAN CITY
Household Hazardous Waste Collection WHAT WILL BE ACCEPTED: Computers & Laptops (No Other Electronics) Gasoline • Gas/Oil Mixtures • Fuels • Acids Cleaners • Solvents • Automotive Fluids • Bleach Ammonia • Pool Chemicals • Pesticides Dark Room Supplies • CFL Light Bulbs • Batteries Insecticides • Herbicides • Oil-Based Paints Thinners • Turpentine • Wood Preservatives Wood Strippers • Etc. All of these materials will go to a HAZ MAT disposal site. Dispose of solidified water based paint in trash. (to solidify – add dirt, sand, kitty litter, mulch, etc.) THESE ITEMS WILL BE ACCEPTED AT OCEAN CITY PARK & RIDE, RT. 50, WEST OCEAN CITY NOVEMBER 27, 2021, 10 AM - 2 PM
WHAT WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED:
Explosives • Ammunition • Medical Waste Radioactive Materials • Picric Acid • Asbestos Televisions • TV Remotes • Keyboards Mouse • Printers • Modems • Scanners • Cables Misc. Computer Parts • VCR’s • CD Player’s Calculators • Cell Phones • Radios • Stereos CB Radios • Fax Machines • Misc. items
ELECTRONICS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED
For more information on this event, Please call Mike McClung, Recycling Manager 410-632-3177 Ext. 2405 or email at mmcclung@co.worcester.md.us No Materials will be accepted from Business, Industrial or Commercial Sources.
NOVEMBER 19, 2021
Changes coming to police misconduct review process By Jack Chavez Staff Writer (Nov. 19, 2021) A three-tiered system for addressing police discipline is coming to Worcester County. Earlier this year, the Maryland General Assembly repealed the Law Enforcement Bill of Rights, which governs how police are disciplined. The law will expire at the end of June 2022. Its replacement is known as the Police Accountability Act, which “replaces the most internal discipline Roscoe Leslie system under LEOBR with a multi-tiered system of (three) external civilian boards,” according to a memo from County Attorney Roscoe Leslie to the county commissioners. According to Leslie’s memo, the boards would include a police accountability board, the overall governing body of the system that cannot have active police on it but must have a chair with “relevant experience” and will receive complaints of police misconduct; a five-member charging committee comprised of the accountability board chair and four civilians picked by the accountability board and the commissioners that will review complains and investigations into misconduct, decide if an officer should be charged with misconduct and recommend discipline; and a three-member trial board comprised of a retired judge, a civilian appointed
by the accountability board and a police officer from the agency involved. The trial board will conduct hearings if the officer doesn’t accept discipline and will have the power to issue subpoenas. Leslie outlined current concerns as the financial burden, finding qualified board members, the extent of local board power and addressing issues like handling internal complaints that the new legislation is not clear on. “During this process,” Commissioner Chip Bertino asked, “are the rights of the individual law enforcement officer protected each step of the way?” Leslie responded that the goal is to protect officers similar to how the county protects them now. “Board appointees will be trained properly with metrics similar to what the Maryland State Police use now,” he said. “(We just) need to fill in gaps to assure it.” Bertino also voiced concern over the inclusion of civilians on the board. “If we have citizens not well-versed in police procedures on these boards, or influenced by public opinion or videos on CNN or Fox News, it could irreparably harm individuals going through this,” Bertino said. “Like everyone else, they’re innocent until proven guilty and it’s darn important to protect their rights moving forward.” A formal resolution on how to implement the new system is expected early next year.
Commissioners, sheriff talk one-stop public safety shop By Jack Chavez Staff Writer (Nov. 19, 2021) The Worcester County Commissioners and Sheriff Matt Crisafulli discussed the feasibility $32.6 million public safety building on Tuesday, following that project’s inclusion in the FY2023-27 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). The specific need, according to Crisafulli, is for upgraded facilities in a county that has grown considerably over the last generation. “We’ve been outgrowing this space for some years now,” Crisafulli said. “When (the current office) was built (around 20 years ago), we were at approximately 50 deputies. … We’re up to 96 sworn pins … We’re potentially going from 50 deputies in 2001 to 100 deputies in let’s say 2022 coming up.” “We’re running out of space. We’re taking closet space to make offices.” The new facility in the CIP would
put the building around the vicinity of the county jail on Joyner Road in Snow Hill with easy access to Route 113. It is proposed that the facility would house the Department of Emergency Services — including 911 dispatch — as well. Preliminary discussions have also considered the State’s Attorney Office, Children’s Advocacy Center and the Fire Marshall’s Office as tenants. Crisafulli added that the current location of the Sheriff’s Office — in the courthouse basement — is not ideal for easy interfacing with the public. “It would be easier access for our residents to have a centrally located public safety building,” Crisafulli said. “I think that we need to be out in the public’s eye instead of in the basement where we’re not as accessible.” Commissioner Chip Bertino conSee BUILDING Page 15
NOVEMBER 19, 2021
Ocean City Today
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Stephen Decatur Middle addition underway Nearly 25,000 square-foot project will bring necessary space to school in West OC By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer (Nov. 19, 2021) After two decades and some rushed steel bids, Stephen Decatur Middle School’s footprint is officially getting bigger. On Wednesday, with bulldozers
Building for public safety to include other departments Continued from Page 14 curred that the current location in a basement is far from adequate and looked for a timeline from Crisafulli and Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young. “God forbid we ever have a flood,” he said. “What’s the timeline for this to be done? Are you looking at five, 10 years?” Young replied that the estimate is currently four to five years, to which Bertino asked if the reality of prior commitments to other big-ticket items like replacing Buckingham Elementary School and possible Snow Hill Elementary School renovations would affect funding. “(Our finance team is) looking at it now,” Young said.” In the meantime, Crisafulli said that the Sheriff’s Office will “do the best we can” over the next couple of years as planning for the new facility progresses. “This is future growth and planning for where we’re going to be with all the unfunded mandates (coming) and bringing in extra support staff,” he said, “And our projections also are that potentially within the next 10 years we may have just as many support staff as we do sworn personnel just to keep up with the changing times.” Commissioner Ted Elder offered a tempered point of view about what these improvements could mean for the county. “This is something that we have to look forward to, trying to figure out where we’re going to get funding for it. It’s certainly something I would think needs to be done,” Elder said. “We’re going to have some tough times ahead. It might destroy some of the plans that others had like the sports complex … the only way we’re going to be able to sustain these kinds of costs is really tighten our belts a lot. I just hope we don’t end up like some of the other counties that have such a high rate of taxes. I’m looking forward to finding out what the actual plans are going to be.”
and giant work trucks milling around a flat dirt plat in the background, Worcester County Public Schools officials and local dignitaries flashed genuine smiles of joy as they celebrated the official groundbreaking of a long-awaited 24,800-square-foot addition on the side of the existing 79,500 square-foot school on Seahawk Road in Berlin. “This addition is a project that this school has needed practically since its doors opened in 1997,” Superintendent Lou Taylor said to the modest crowd as participants waited to don ceremonial hard hats and clutch shiny silver shovels in front of a kneehigh pile of loose tan dirt for a photo op. “At that time we predicted how the north end community would grow,” Taylor continued. “And while the ini-
tial project didn’t ultimately include this necessary 25,000 square-foot addition, we are grateful to be able to add this much-needed space today.” The addition will include 12 new classrooms, four science labs, meeting and prep areas, and storage space. Taylor said the new square footage will be used for general storage, as well for the school’s growing band program. He said the addition will also help improve safety and security for the school by allowing for the elimination of nine portable classrooms and the creation of a secure entry vestibule. “Much like the one built at Showell Elementary School, it’s much-needed for safety today,” he said. Taylor thanked numerous people in the audience during his short See MANY Page 18
MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Stephen Decatur Middle School Principal Lynne Barton speaks during a groundbreaking ceremony Wednesday morning for a longawaited nearly 25,000 square-foot addition at the school. The project is set for completion by the end of the 2022.
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Ocean City Today
NOVEMBER 19, 2021
Final judgment still looms in Farr vs. Pines By Greg Ellison Staff Writer (Nov. 19, 2021) Closing arguments were delivered on Monday with no judgment delivered in the lawsuit filed by Ocean Pines Board of Directors candidate Rick Farr over his lastminute disqualification tied to property ownership questions. Farr was declared ineligible to run on July 27, even though now former Ocean Pines Board member and Secretary Camilla Rogers certified Farr’s candidacy on May 11. An “anonymous tip,” however, suggested that Farr was not a property owner at the qualification deadline of Jan. 1. Farr entered Monday’s trial in Worcester Circuit Court with a full head of steam after a long-delayed ballot count conducted last month revealed Farr led the pack with 1,629
votes, followed by Frank Daly with 1,571, Stuart Lakernick with 1,511 and David Hardy with 941. Judge Sidney Campen ordered the association to count ballots at the last court hearing in October. The court also halted an attempted redo election the board had approved by a 4-3 decision on Sept. 30. OPA legal counsel Rick Farr Jeremy Tucker, the first of three witnesses to testify on Monday, told Farr’s attorney Bruce Bright his involvement began after being contacted by Rogers on July 28. “I was not consulted on the decision to [initially] qualify Farr or other candidates,” he said.
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Tucker, who began representing the association in December 2017, told Bright the situation arose after an unidentified party alerted General Manager John Viola in July that a board candidate was not a property owner of record. “Did you verify the identify of the tipster?” Bright said. Tucker said the situation was unprecedented in his experience. “No, I didn’t think that was relevant,” he said. Bright said both the association’s charter and declaration of restrictions make reference to equitable and legal ownership. Bright said the association requires a board candidate to be an equitable owner, while a member could meet either definition. Tucker agreed with Bright’s assessment that if a member is eligible to vote and listed as a property deed grantee they qualify for board candidacy. “Your position in the context of a LLC in Ocean Pines is members can’t run for the board?” Bright said. Tucker said his interpretation of qualifying as an owner of record would be having the individual’s name listed on public records. Bright introduced Farr’s candidate application, noting the section asking for additional documentation if the person is not listed as property owner. “It refers to OPA records and doesn’t specify Worcester County land records,” he said. Tucker agreed that county land records are not part of the OPA membership database. Bright asked if members of property ownership partnerships could run for the board. “Probably not,” Tucker said. Bright continued in that same vein. “Have you considered if equitable owners can serve on the board?” he said. “Farr is an equitable owner of a trust that owns the property.” Since 2000, Farr has been a designated beneficiary of the Farr Living Trust, the legal owner of the property originally purchased by his parents in 1999. Tucker agreed an equitable owner in a property trust could serve on the board but doubted they would qualify for candidacy. “So, an equitable owner of a trust can serve on the board but the person can’t run for the board?” Bright said. Tucker agreed with the assessment. “That’s the way I view the bylaws,” he said. Bright said the sole basis to disqualify Farr was a reference in bylaws section 5.02A that states candidates be owners of records of real property in Ocean Pines on Jan. 1 of the election year. “Are there any other bylaws used to determine disqualification?” he asked.
Tucker said no other bylaws or charter provisions were relied upon for the determination. “Do any bylaws allow the secretary to disqualify candidates in the middle of an election with votes cast?” he said. “Or for the secretary to disqualify previously qualified candidates.” Bright noted an email sent by Rogers to Tucker on July 29 claimed association membership and assessments supervisor Ruth Ann Myers made an “honest mistake” in originally determining Farr was a property owner based on OPA records. Tucker said his opinion after being pulled into the discussion was the family trust was the owner of record not Farr. Tucker said a subsequent request for documentation from Farr indicated he was a property owner but not owner of record. Tucker said he was unaware Farr was considered a trust beneficiary prior to emailing the board several legal options on July 30. Bright said during a closed session on July 30 then secretary Rogers opted to disqualify Farr and the board voted on how to proceed. “She finalized determination on July 30 after thinking it over,” Tucker said. Bright said Tucker’s email indicated a lack of precedent for disqualifying candidates during an election and also noted the Maryland HOA Act fails to address the situation. “Your email also draws a distinction between being eligible to be elected and to serve,” he said. Bright said among the legal avenues proposed by Tucker the board opted to follow the first route. “Which recognized proceeding disenfranchised some voters,” he said. By contrast, Tucker also proposed the board could not disqualify Farr and permit the election to conclude with all ballots counted. He said if Farr was elected and seated, his eligibility could be challenged later. “Under Robert’s Rules you could raise a … point of order challenging his eligibility to be elected or serve on the board,” he said. Bright also raised issue with board motions voted on during a Sept. 30 special meeting held days after a court hearing left the issue still undetermined. After voting 7-0 to rescind a motion passed on July 30 to hold ballots, the board voted 4-3 in favor of staging a “re-do” election without Farr. Bright said after incumbent Daly voted to proceed with a new election, he abstained from a subsequent motion that deadlocked 3-3 to recount the 2021 ballots. “Daly was one of four voting in favor after you advised him publically to abstain?” he said. See COURT Page 18
NOVEMBER 19, 2021
Ocean City Today
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PAGE 18
Many get thanks for project start Continued from Page 15 speech, including his own support staff, the Worcester County Commissioners, state lawmakers and members of the board of education. He also noted one particular board member, former Superintendent Jon Andes, who stood out among the others. “One of his first projects as superintendent was to build Stephen Decatur Middle School and 20-plus years later I’m trying to finish it for Dr. Andes,” Taylor said. “I know you wanted it then. He deserves credit for getting the space off the ground.” Principal Lynne Barton, who served as emcee of the event, also pointed out the importance of all of the partnerships that brought the project to light, and board President Elena McComas noted the “joyous” nature of seeing a project of this caliber come to fruition. The evolution of the project was long, with planning beginning practically when the original school was built, as Taylor said. In July, board members opted to fast-track the bid process for the steel contract, for fear of a shortage due to covid supply chain constraints. With that, the project is set for completion by the end of 2022.
NOVEMBER 19, 2021
Ocean City Today
Court decision looms in OP case Continued from Page 16 Tucker confirmed Daly ignored his legal advice. Bright asked if any board members had also cautioned Daly. Tucker said both Director Doug Parks and now former board member Tom Janasek echoed his advice to Daly. “Was anyone else in the discussion?” Bright said. Tucker said he could not remember other comments. “You don’t recall [Larry] Perrone weighing in?” he said. Attorney Anthony Dwyer, representing Ocean Pines, said in some instances HOAs have different qualifications to serve on a board versus being an association member. Dwyer asked if Tucker had anticipated problems with the legal actions recommended to the board. “Someone was going to potentially sue,” he said. “No matter which way they decided, they were all bad decisions.” Tucker said if Farr was allowed to run other members or candidates could bring suit. “The decision was made carefully knowing what could happen,” he said. Judge Campen told Tucker in the wake of two recent board resignations, Farr could have been appointed
to an open seat. “If you and the board had chosen to do that, we wouldn’t be sitting in this court room today,” he said. Second on the witness stand was Director Colette Horn, who acknowledged association bylaws lack procedures for disqualifying a candidate deemed qualified. “The board position is anyone whose name is on the deed ... can run for the board?” Bright said. Horn said assessment fees must also be current. Bright asked if an owner or member of an LLC that owns property could run for the board. “I know of nothing in the governing documents prohibiting it,” she said. Bright said Horn previously testified that shareholders of a corporation that owns property could run for the board. “The principal shareholder could run for the board,” she said. Bright also asked if the board had adopted a resolution concerning conflicts of interest. “I’m aware it exists,” she said. “I couldn’t tell you exactly what it says.” Dwyer objected that Bright’s line of questioning was irrelevant. Bright said Daly’s vote to hold a new election would have violated resolution B-08 related to director conduct, which was rescinded this year after being adopted in July 2018. Dwyer asked if Horn played any role in determining if Farr was qualified. Horn, who previously served as secretary prior to resigning the role to seek re-election in 2019, wrote a handbook on related duties she shared with Rogers upon entering the role. “She knew what her duties were and I didn’t consider it my place to be questioning her,” she said. “I would
have no reason to second guess any of that.” Last on the stand was Myers who said a database of property owners was used as the basis to initially qualify candidates. In closing Dwyer asked Judge Campen to remove a list of 50-plus plaintiffs included in the suit. “None beared harm in any way,” he said. Further, Dwyer said including board members in the lawsuit was improper. Bright said in light of the vote count revealing Farr garnered the most selections, the list of plaintiffs is less relevant. “We are not seeking damages on their behalf,” he said. Bright disagreed about including board members, noting they made a decision on the issue in closed session. Judge Campen sustained Dwyer’s request to remove plaintiffs, but denied removing board members from the suit. Dwyer next asked to file a trial memorandum, with Bright requesting the same ability if permitted. “The closing issues in the case have been well presented prior to today,” Bright said. Judge Campen Judge agreed both sides could file a trial memorandum prior to a ruling being issued. Campen said one of the most troubling aspects of the case is the bylaws requirement for two persons per board vacancy. “So you would need four candidates,” he said. Campen said instead of seeking results, the board opted to disqualify Farr. “If Farr had lost we wouldn’t be here,” he said. “I believe in the sanctity of elections.”
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PAGE 19
Ocean City Today
State BOE holds hearing on school masks By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer (Nov. 19, 2021) Members of the state board of education have a great deal to think about over the coming weeks. For nearly four and a half hours Tuesday, in a busy virtual Zoom session, the group that passed an emergency order requiring everyone in school buildings to mask up indoors without exception listened to testimony on all sides of the controversial issue. The meeting was their first time publicly reviewing the order since passing it almost unanimously in late August. And in the name of “science” and all the evidence every speaker could find, district representatives from across the state and a panel of doctors and health officials made adamant points both for and against the mandate ahead of a board meeting set next month to revisit it. The arguments for and against the mandate were all over the board, from pleas to keep the mandate in place to protect not only the vulnerable students, but their parents and grandparents and everyone they’ve ever known from covid transmission, to claiming child abuse and mental and emotional distress from unfair and unjust “muzzling.” “We were hoping to get a cross-section of views and opinions,” Board President Clarence Crawford said at the end of the hearing. “I was disappointed we didn’t get a silver bullet … But we have a lot of good information to think about.” Crawford and all but one member of the board bypassed the advice of Gov. Larry Hogan and passed the emergency order on Aug. 26. The decision, which was voted into law weeks later by a General Assembly committee, prompted officials in Worcester County Public Schools to flip original plans to start the school year mask-optional. Local officials have said that they will not revisit the mandate themselves while the state order is in place. Crawford said Tuesday that the emergency order ends Feb. 25 and cannot be extended or reissued, thus board members have to decide how to proceed. “We need to assess how it’s going and then begin to think through a thoughtful and prudent way forward. What do we do?,” he said of the reason behind Tuesday’s hearing. The groups represented at the hearing included members of the public, who testified nine to seven against keeping the mandate in place; parent and student groups; county school districts and state education organizations; and national health professionals and officials. Testimony from the educational groups leaned toward keeping the mandate. Several speakers pointed out that the pandemic is far from over and that transmission is evident
among children across the country. They also said that most children have no problem wearing a mask and claimed that schools have remained open because masks have been required. Those against keeping the mandate testified that the decision should be left to the local jurisdictions, and claimed that children do not contract or transmit the virus at the same rate as adults. The health officials had varying testimony as well. Dr. Lucy McBride, a practicing internist from Washington D.C. who has studied the effects of covid since its inception, said that masks were the clear answer for preventing the spread of the virus at the start of the pandemic. But now that a vaccine and advanced testing are available, and more science exists regarding transmission rates among children, her advice has changed. “Now that we have these vaccines that not only reduce the risk of disease in the vaccine recipient, but that also reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to someone else, it’s really time to think about removing a medical intervention whose benefits are not clear and that does have harm,” she said. “Masks are not a zero risk intervention.” McBride pointed out that no real evidence exists that show the benefits of masking outweigh the negative effects on children, which include mental and emotional distress from not having the ability to see and hear teachers and peers. “We need to recognize these are not risk-free interventions,” she said. “Students need to see faces to learn and for social and emotional health.” The U.S. World Health Organization also does not recommend mask wearing for children under 5 at all, and routinely advises against it for those between the ages of 6 and 11, McBride added. “In the U.S. we are really an outlier in masking children of these age categories,” she said. Dr. Monique Soileau-Burke, the vice president of the Maryland Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, had a more tentative take on moving away from masking. While she agreed that the vaccine will eventually allow officials to stop requiring masks for students and staff in schools, she believes it is still too soon. “I really, truly strongly believe the American Academy of Pediatrics will recommend that masks remain in place in classrooms until everyone has the opportunity to become vaccinated,” she said. She added that she does not believe it will be as simple as waiting a few weeks after the shot is available to all age groups, as it is not universally available to everyone at the moment
and getting to that point could take time. Professor Larry Gostin from the O’Neil Institute for National and Global Health Law at Georgetown University, disagreed with unmasking children at this time. While he said that he did not have specific evidence from schools stating
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that masks are effective at preventing covid transmission in children, he referenced general studies of transmission in other scenarios that show their success. “We have no evidence that taking off masks in the school system now would be safe,” he said. “And so as See VACCINES Page 21
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Ocean City Today
THE ROBERT DYE SCHOLARSHIP FUND For Local Nursing Students at Wor-Wic Community College
I want to thank everyone who attended the Robert Dye Scholarship Fund fundraiser and/or made donations (both financial and raffle or silent auction items). This was our best year ever. We collected almost $6,000.00. After next year, we will have reached the endowment level. I am so excited and feel so thankful. My brother would be so proud and so honored. I have included here the thank you letter I received for one of the two scholarships that have already been awarded. It is so very touching. July 22nd, 2020 Friend and Family of Robert Dye Dye Scholarship Dear Ms. Lynda Johnson, Thank you so much for your generous scholarship! I cannot express what it means to me and my family. My father has been working overtime to try and help me with my tuition and I have been working part time in a pharmacy during nursing school to pay for my books and material but it has been hard to afford all of the textbooks that nursing school requires. This scholarship is such a blessing for me. I cannot wait to tell my family; I know this will be a huge help! It is so generous that you have set up this scholarship away in honor of your friend and family member. What a wonderful way to keep his memory alive. It makes this award even more special to know that it is coming from the friends and family of a fellow lover of nursing. Nursing is and always has been a passion of mine, I strive to do well academically in nursing school to honor my late grandmother. My late grandmother, Dorothy, went back to school in her early 60’s and worked hard. Right before she passed away, she earned her LPN certificate and I was very proud of her. Now I am working hard in nursing school and have been receiving A’s and only 1 B so far, in her honor. After graduation, I hope to work at local hospital while continuing to advance my education. My goal is to one day become a nurse practitioner. This scholarship award means so much to me and I am incredibly grateful! Thank you for your generosity! Sincerely, Kennedy
NOVEMBER 19, 2021
Anheuser-Busch partnering with Ocean City’s Hoop Tea (Nov. 19, 2021) Anheuser-Busch announced on Monday its new partnership with Hoop Tea, an Ocean City-based beverage company known for its iced tea-infused malt beverages and tea-infused seltzers, inspired by the founder’s love for beach culture. Hoop Tea will join AnheuserBusch’s rapidly growing Beyond Beer portfolio, which is a major growth driver within the industry. “The team at Hoop Tea has created an incredible brand with an even better product offering,” said Fabricio Zonzini, Beyond Beer president, Anheuser-Busch. “I look for-
ward to working alongside Hoop Tea’s founder, Danny Robinson, and Vice President, Billy Gilman, to develop and grow the brand to its full potential.” Hoop Tea was born from the mindset that the beach isn’t only a geographic location, but a way of living. From beach bars up and down the East Coast to landlocked states without shores in sight, Hoop Tea evokes the laid-back beach culture of Ocean City, with each and every sip. Hoop Tea will continue to offer consumers great-tasting spiked teas See TEAMING Page 21
WCPS adjusts calendar for mental health improvement By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer (Nov. 19, 2021) In the name of improving the mental health of students, teachers and staff still seemingly ravaged by the lingering effects of the pandemic, Worcester County Public Schools officials have tweaked the school calendar to offer some relief. This week, board of education members unanimously voted to change Dec. 17 to a half-day of in-person instruction, make Dec. 20, 21 and 22 distance-learning days, and add two half-days on March 11 and May 16. The move will presumably help to soften the blow of going to school and work for full days on the specified dates. It also essentially gives students and staff members two full weeks away from classrooms for Christmas break.
“In light of the impact the pandemic and the associated sustained trauma students and educators nationwide have experienced as a result of covid-19, school systems across the country are examining ways to provide mental health supports for both students and staff,” the board document said. “Worcester County Public Schools, alongside our neighboring counties, has examined our existing 2021-2022 school system calendar to identify a strategy to build in time to provide this support.” Carrie Sterrs, the coordinator of public relations and special programs for WCPS, also presented board members with two options for the 2022-23 calendar. One would institute an early June dismissal date and the other a later one. Board members will take the options under advisement and vote on them at a later date.
The Worcester County Public Schools 2021-22 calendar was altered slightly this week to change Dec. 17 to a half day of in-person instruction, make Dec. 20, 21 and 22 distance learning days, and add two half days on March 11 and May 16. SCREENSHOT COURTESY WORCESTER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
NOVEMBER 19, 2021
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Ocean City Today
Teaming up with AB ‘perfect fit’ Continued from Page 20 in flavors like White Mango, Watermelon Mint, Pineapple Passionfruit, and Peach Tea Lemonade. The brand will also continue offering Hoop Tea Aire hard seltzer flavors in Goji Berry Green Tea, Orange Hibiscus and Kiwi Berry. The brand offers an assortment of SKUs including single-serve cans, variety packs and ready-to-share pouches. “Joining Anheuser-Busch is a perfect fit for us because we share a culture of daring innovation and strategic growth,” said Robinson, founder and CEO of Hoop Tea. “Hoop Tea’s roots were planted in a laid-back beach town and we’ve relentlessly strived to build and develop our brand over the past years,” he continued. “Working with the team at A-B is like hanging out with old friends and we’re excited to do some really cool things together.” With leading brands that include Cutwater Spirits, BABE Wine and more, Anheuser-Busch’s Beyond Beer portfolio has captured more than $1 billion in revenue over the last three years through a combination of organic brand building, strategic acquisitions, and innovative partnerships (IRI MULC w/e 10.24.21 - last three years). Hoop Tea will continue to be led by Robinson, who has joined the team at Anheuser-Busch along with
Gilman. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. For more than 160 years, Anheuser-Busch has carried on a legacy of brewing great-tasting, high-quality beers that have satisfied beer drinkers for generations. It owns and operates more than 100 facilities, including breweries, wholesaler distribution centers, agricultural facilities and packaging plants, and have more than 19,000 colleagues across the United States. It is home to several of America’s most recognizable beer brands, including Budweiser, Bud Light, Michelob ULTRA and Stella Artois, as well as a number of regional brands that provide beer drinkers with a choice of the best-tasting craft beers in the industry. For more information, visit www.anheuser-busch.com or follow Anheuser-Busch on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Hoop Tea is a brand of spiked iced teas originally brewed by the sun and steeped in the salty air of Ocean City. Founded in a beach front brewery, its free-spirited flavors are created by individuals who traded their day jobs for the beach life. An early pioneer of the exploding Beyond Beer category, Hoop Tea has rapidly gained a fanatic following in the Mid-Atlantic region.
PHOTO COURTESY ALEX ASHMAN
Anheuser-Busch announced on Monday its new partnership with Ocean City-based Hoop Tea. Pictured are Hoop Tea’s Founder, Danny Robinson, left, and Vice President, Billy Gilman.
Vaccines key to unmasking kids Continued from Page 19 much as my heart yearns for the little kids that have to wear masks I would say that at this point I would be cautious.” All three of the health officials did have one thing in common, though: They all believe vaccines are the catalyst for a mask-free, endemic future. “The answer to getting our kids out of masks altogether is to get them vaccinated,” Burke said. The board members asked several questions that ranged from advice on changing soiled masks to the threat of flu season, but they offered no feedback about which way they are leaning in the debate.
The board meets again in December and Crawford said they will take into account everything heard and come to a decision that will ensure students safely stay in school. “We will come up with a thoughtful, appropriate way forward as best as we can fulfilling what we said was our objective,” he said. Crawford also encouraged anyone with thoughts or opinions to contact the board at stateboard.msde@maryland.gov or 200 West Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201. He said that board members will take all emails and comments received into consideration before making their decision.
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Ocean City Today
NOVEMBER 19, 2021
REAL ESTATE REPORT
Maryland real estate stats released for Oct. By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer (Nov. 19, 2021) Maryland Realtors just released real estate statistics information from the October 2021 housing market analysis. The market continued its monthly trend of a decrease in units sold, down 8,665 in 2021, a 10.4 percent drop from 2020’s figure of 9,676. Locally, in Worcester County, the decrease is more dramatic at a 23 percent drop to 269 units sold in October 2021 as compared to 388 in October 2020. In spite of this dip, statewide, the average sales price rose 7 percent to reach
$431,461 as compared to 2020’s number of $403,226. The statewide median sales price of $369,700 represented a 7.2 percent increase from last year’s figure of $345,000. In Worcester County, the average sales price rose 20.8 percent to reach $410,546 as compared to 2020’s October number of $339,909. The local Worcester County median sales price also rose dramatically by 19.2 percent to reach $354,000, as compared to 2020 figure of $297,000.
Statewide, the median days on market—the number of days a house is listed before it is sold—has grown by a day over the last three months to nine days today, versus eight last year. However, for Worcester County, October figures show the average days on market in 2021 is eight, down 12 days on market average in October 2020. The number of new listings in October 2021 was 9,944, whereas the same time last year the figure was 11,451— representing a 13.2 percent drop in listing inventory. In Worcester County, the number of new listings is down to just 282 in October versus 388 new
listings in October of 2020. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) Chief Economist Lawrence Yun commented at the NAR Annual Conference in San Diego this past week that, “The housing sector’s success will continue, but I don’t expect next year’s performance to exceed this year’s. With more housing inventory to hit the market, the intense multiple offers will start to ease. Home prices will continue to rise but at a slower pace.” — Lauren Bunting is an Associate Broker with Atlantic Shores Sotheby’s International Realty Inc. in Ocean City.
Wor. Co. reports high senior vaccine rates By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer (Nov. 19, 2021) Maryland — and Worcester County specifically — are still setting records for the number of vaccines distributed to residents. This week, Sarah Yonker, the director of marketing for Atlantic General Hospital, said in an email that 96 percent of county residents ages 65 and older had received at least one
dose of the vaccine. Of that total, 86.9 percent are fully vaccinated. Gov. Larry Hogan announced last week that 99 percent of Maryland seniors have received at least one dose of the vaccine, a milestone that piggybacks on a similar one from last week regarding the overall shot numbers. He said that the state had also already clocked more than 50,000 vac-
cines for 5 to 11 year-olds. “From our oldest to youngest eligible, we continue to lead one of the most successful vaccination campaigns in the country,” Hogan said in a news release issued Nov. 13. “We have gotten to this point by listening to the experts and by following the science, and that is exactly what we will continue to do as we work to get those last remaining 1 percent of sen-
iors, and the 12.7 percent of remaining adults in our state vaccinated, and as we now work to get more of our school age children vaccinated.” Yonker said hospital officials have administered 99 vaccines to children in the 5 to 11 age group since the shots got the go-ahead in recent weeks. The hospital hosted its first pediatric dose clinic on Nov. 11 and has another See PEDIATRIC Page 23
NOVEMBER 19, 2021
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Ocean City Today
Pediatric vaccine clinics underway Continued from Page 22 scheduled for Nov. 18. Hospital officials are also working with the local public school system to offer clinics for 5 to 11 year-olds at various locations throughout the county in the near future, Yonker added. The Worcester County Health Department also recently held pediatric dose clinics and has two more scheduled for Dec. 4 and Dec. 7. Maryland has led the charge in high vaccination rates since the beginning. Hogan has said the low hospitalization numbers and covid-associated deaths, especially as compared to lower vaccinated states and regions, prove the efforts are paying off. Weekly vaccine numbers and info: • As of Thursday, Maryland providers administered more than 9 million covid-19 vaccines for a total of 87.7 percent of residents with at least one dose. • According to the Worcester County Health Department, 73.3 percent of the county’s population was fully vaccinated as of Wednesday. • Atlantic General staff members have administered a total of 12,859 shots. • As of Wednesday, 89 percent of AGH staff members had received at
least one dose of the vaccine. An employee boosters clinic was also held recently, where 35 hospital workers received vaccines. • Atlantic General Hospital hosts vaccine clinics from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday at its pharmacy in the main lobby of the hospital. All three types of vaccines are offered. • The Worcester County Health Department holds vaccine clinics weekly. For information, visit worcesterhealth.org/protect-menu/1726worcester-county,-md-coronavirus-c ovid-19 information-2020. Weekly covid numbers: • As of Thursday, Worcester County’s covid-19 positivity rate was 4.66 percent, a decrease from 5.3 percent last week. Posting the highest positivity rate in the state was Garrett County at 18.5 percent.* • The state’s positivity rate was 3.4 percent Thursday. • Also as of Thursday, Maryland reported 574,914 confirmed covid cases. • Atlantic General Hospital reported five covid in-patients this week, down from six last week. None of the patients were fully vaccinated and their ages ranged between 37 and 61. • Worcester County confirmed 55
new cases since last week, bringing the total cases since March 2020 to 5,144. • Ocean Pines and Berlin had 2,008 cases and Ocean City had 1,278 Thursday. • Worcester County has reported 123 covid deaths since March 2020. • According to the state health department website, as of Wednesday, 48 people in Worcester County schools — both public and private — were positive for covid. Broken down, Buckingham Elementary had 17 cases, Stephen Decatur Middle had 16, Stephen Decatur High had seven, Ocean City Elementary had four, Berlin Intermediate School had two, and Worcester Prep had two. Worcester County Public Schools also tracks new covid cases and outbreaks through an online dashboard tracking system. According to the site, from Nov. 8-12 the school system reported 18 new covid cases. Info from Gov. Larry Hogan; the Maryland Department of Health; Atlantic General; Worcester County Health Department; and the CDC. * The positivity rates are determined by a population percentage and do not necessarily reflect the number of confirmed cases as compared to areas with different populations.
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Larry Holdren Real Estate, Inc©
For More Information Call 800-252-2223 • 410-250-2700
For More Information Call 800-252-2223 • 410-250-2700
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www.larryholdrenrealestate.com • email: ocmdhre@gmail.com
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NOVEMBER 19, 2021
Ocean City Today
Hotel death remains undetermined By Greg Wehner Staff Writer (Nov. 19, 2021) The chief medical examiner determined this week that a 42-year-old man who was found outside of a hotel on 60th Street died from injuries sustained from a fall, though the cause remains to be undetermined, according to Ocean City Police. Police were alerted to an unconscious man outside of the Sea Bay Hotel on 60th Street by a citizen on Sept. 20, and when Ocean City paramedics arrived on the scene, they pronounced the man dead. The body was transported to the chief medical examiner’s office in Baltimore for an autopsy. “The investigation into the unattended death that occurred on Sept. 20 is still open,” Deputy Communications Manager Ashley Miller said on Monday. “The medical examiner ruled the manner of death ‘multiple
GREG WEHNER/OCEAN CITY TODAY
The chief medical examiner conducted an autopsy of a man who was found dead next to the Sea Bay Hotel on Sept. 20, and found the cause of death to be undetermined, though the man suffered multiple injuries from a fall.
injuries from a fall’ and the cause of death ‘undetermined.’ At this time the fall does not appear to be criminal
in nature.” No other details about the investigation were provided.
Two arrested for stealing vehicle By Greg Wehner Staff Writer (Nov. 19, 2021) Two men from Baltimore face charges after stealing a vehicle from their home city and driving it to Ocean City for a court appointment.
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Dontae Jerrod Willis and Malik BurtonBraxton, both 26, were arrested by Ocean City Police at approximately 1:05 p.m. on Nov. 8 at a hotel near Fifth Street and charged with the Dontae Willis unlawful taking of a motor vehicle and theft of property valued between $25,000 and $100,000. Police said they were alerted to a possible stolen vehicle in the parking lot of the hotel at Fifth Street by Toyota, which was tracking the 2021 Lexus RX. Toyota told police the vehicle was reported stolen from the Northeast District of Baltimore City Police Department. Police found the car and noticed damage on its driver’s side before obtaining surveillance footage from the hotel. The driver of the vehicle, Braxton, was seen checking into the hotel, going back to his car, pulling into a parking spot, and getting out of the car with two other people. Braxton was wearing the
same black sweatshirt and sweatpants he wore when he checked into the hotel. Police confirmed Braxton was the driver of the vehicle, and a background check revealed he had Malik Braxton two felonies in Georgia for forgery and theft, as well as 25 pages of charges in Maryland that included armed robbery, firearms, and controlled dangerous substances. According to police, the vehicle was taken from a dealership in Baltimore along with two other cars – the dealership was missing the keys to the cars as well as a fourth car. Police also said the suspects had access to temporary registrations. When Braxton exited the hotel at 1:05 pm., officers approached and detained him. Additional officers entered the hotel to detain the other two individuals – Willis and Janai Natasha Clark. See DUO Page 34
By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer (Nov. 19, 2021) A central Maryland man charged in connection with a mini golf game gone bad will be sentenced next month after pleading guilty to a felony assault charge. N’Gai Naamone Lincoln Jr., 23, of Havre de Grace, reportedly got into a N’Gai Lincoln Jr. fight with two other people around 7 p.m. on June 6 after a mini golf game at a course near 18th Street. The fight began, according to witnesses, on the golf course and moved to the parking lot on Kingfish Street. Reports said it began as close contact shoving and escalated to stabbing. Lincoln reportedly stabbed Ronald Edward Alfones Turner and Cheyenne Carmen Maria Lopez during the altercation. Police said they found Turner on Kingfish Street bleeding from cuts in his back and hand. Lopez had a small cut on her right hand. Lincoln initially left the scene but was later found and arrested after witnesses identified him as the person who stabbed Turner and Lopez. During a search of Lincoln, police found a black folding pocketknife with blood on it. Lincoln was arrested and charged with two counts of first-degree assault, two counts of second-degree assault, two counts of reckless endangerment, and one count of fighting with a knife/weapon stemming from the incident. On Nov. 8, according to records, Lincoln pleaded guilty to first-degree assault in Worcester County Circuit Court and will be sentenced Dec. 3. He remains in jail on $10,000 bail.
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NOVEMBER 19, 2021
Ocean City Today
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Ocean City Today
NOVEMBER 19, 2021
Santa tree seeks gifts for seniors By Greg Ellison Staff Writer (Nov. 19, 2021) After collecting healthy donations in 2020 despite the coronavirus pandemic, the “Be a Santa to a Senior” holiday outreach program coordinated by Home Instead Senior Care in Berlin is again soliciting gifts through Dec. 8. Home Care Consultant Crystal Heiser said “Be a Santa to a Senior” Christmas trees are on display at numerous locations in Worcester and Wicomico counties, including the Ocean Pines Community Center. Since 2016, the OPA has worked with Home Instead on the yuletide venture to provide senior citizens with cheer and help at Christmas. Heiser said the program addresses needs for homebound seniors or assisted living residents in Worcester, Wicomico and Somerset counties. The senior-focused Christmas trees are filled with tags listing spe-
cific items requested by local residents. “We call our tree ornaments hosts,” she said. Heiser said Home Instead Senior Care franchise owners Corrie and Don Boger have participated in the charitable venture since opening the location nearly a half dozen years ago. After collecting upwards of 700 donations in 2020, Heiser said the mark is set a bit higher for 2021. “Our goal for this year is 800,” she said. Gift requests are typically low-cost basic need items. “We try to keep it very simple,” she said. In addition to snack baskets, warm clothing and gift cards, Heiser said an often overlooked item are socks. “We never have enough socks,” she said. “Soft blankets are huge.” Organizers request gift items be returned to the site of origin no later
than Dec. 8. “We just ask that they return it either in a gift bag or box,” she said. “Whatever is simple for them so it can be wrapped and all ready to go.” Heiser said Home Instead senior trees are also on display at the Ocean Pines Chamber of Commerce, Shorebird Stadium and Apple Drug locations in Fruitland, Snow Hill and Salisbury. “We get names from the Worcester County Commission on Aging,” she said. Heiser said Avery Hall Insurance in Salisbury has a tree being supported by employees. Meals on Wheels recipients are also targeted for the outreach, Heiser said. “I spend about two weeks picking up the packages and delivering them to the site,” she said. For more information contact Home Instead in Berlin at 410-6410901.
Home Instead Senior Care in Berlin is once again sponsoring the “Be a Santa to a Senior” holiday outreach program at the Ocean Pines Community Center and other locations in Worcester and Wicomico counties.
OC Baptist Church sponsors Thanksgiving dinner Nov. 25 (Nov. 19, 2021) The 42nd annual free Thanksgiving dinner will again be held at the Ocean City Baptist Church on Thursday, Nov. 25, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The church is located at 102 North Division Street in downtown Ocean City right next to the 7-11. Anyone who is looking for a good homecooked meal this Thanksgiving Day is invited to the no-cost dinner. The men and women of the church and community will be preparing and serving the dinner. The menu includes: turkey, stuffing, gravy, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, string beans, corn, cranberry sauce, assorted pies, rolls and butter.
Call Ocean City Baptist Church for more information or to RSVP for the dinner, at 410-289-4054 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Friday, or, signup online at OCBaptist.com. Volunteers will also be taking dinner to shut-ins. Request a meal by providing the location of someone who needs dinner in Ocean City or West Ocean City, and volunteers will deliver to them. Volunteers prepared nearly 600 meals during Ocean City Baptist Church’s 41st annual Thanksgiving Day dinner in 2020. All meals were packaged for carryout because of covid-19 last year.
Your Online Community: www.oceancitytoday.com
PHOTO COURTESY SEAN DAVIS
Volunteers prepared nearly 600 meals during Ocean City Baptist Church’s 41st annual Thanksgiving Day dinner last year.
NOVEMBER 19, 2021
HOROSCOPE ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, you may not jump out of bed excited to work, but things may change in the next few days. Pleasant interactions at the workplace play a factor into your good mood.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Stop and smell the roses as much as possible, Taurus. Cherish the good things you encounter, whether they are big or small. Take advantage of an opportunity to indulge.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, don’t let trivial things distract you from the bigger picture. Even if a small opportunity does not initially seem like a big deal, it could grow in the days to come.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, people are interested in what you have to say, even if you’re normally inclined to keep things under wraps. Start practicing what you are going to talk about.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, you may experience a burst of productivity in the days to come. Harness this energy and get as much done as possible. Expect a helping hand from others.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 This week will be a lesson in putting yourself first, Virgo. Even if you don’t crave the limelight, people will be shining a spotlight on you for the time being. Prove your worth.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, progress you make in the next several days could be beneficial to you in the long run, even if doesn’t seem like it right now. Keep plodding on.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 A surprising energy may compel you to eschew responsibilities and seek out some new horizons, Scorpio. Don’t shy away from exploring wherever you see fit.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Don’t be surprised if things get a little stressful at work this week, Sagittarius. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, think of it as an opportunity to find success.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Figure out how to strike a balance in your life, Capricorn. This may mean sharing work with other people to free up more opportunities to spend time with family.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, you will be presented with various opportunities in the days to come. Some may be more worthy of your attention than others. Vet the options that come your way.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Pisces, uncertainty may hang over your love life. You may need to find a way to sum up how you feel. Then you can take action.
Ocean City Today
ThanksKitten Fun Run/Walk set for Nov. 25 in Pines (Nov. 19, 2021) CrossFit Assateague (CFA), invite all those in the Delmarva area for Thanksgiving to participate in its fourth annual “ThanksKitten Fun Run/Walk,” Thursday, Nov. 25, at the Ocean Pines South Gate Pond Trail. “ThanksKitten” will consist of three laps around the Ocean Pines South Gate Pond with exercise stations throughout each lap. Exercise stations are optional and participants can complete one, two or three laps. Three laps around the pond is approximately 2.5 miles. Families, children and pets on leashes are welcome. Registration for the Fun Run/Walk is $15 per person for adults, $10 for children 13 and over, and children 12 and under participate for free. Coordinators will also be collecting kitten supplies such as clumping cat litter, Purina One kitten dry food and Friskies turkey pate canned cat food. The Fun Run/Walk will start at 9 a.m. Thanksgiving morning. Participants can register online at www.crossfitassateague.com. Day of registration is also available at 8:30 a.m. at the Veterans Memorial Park by the South Gate pond. Parking is available at the Ocean Pines Library and surrounding area. “ThanksKitten” will benefit Town Cats, a local nonprofit charity, dedicated to enriching the lives of freeroaming, feral, or abandoned cats in the Ocean City and surrounding communities by limiting the population growth and providing medical care through Trap/Neuter/Return (TNR), and affordable adoption services. In 2020, CrossFit Assateague was unable to hold the event due to covid, but still provided an online fundraiser as well as a cat food supply drive. “We are so excited to be able to host ‘ThanksKitten’ again this year. Our goal is to create a fun family friendly event, that burns some calories Thanksgiving morning and hopefully double the amount of money/supplies we raised for Town Cats the past two years,” said Sandra Kerstetter, co-manager of CrossFit Crossword answers from page 30
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OP farmers market sponsors Thanksgiving event this Sat. (Nov. 19, 2021) The Ocean Pines Farmers & Artisans Market will kick off the 2021 holiday season with its annual Thanksgiving Market, this Saturday, Nov. 20. The special event, in White Horse Park in north Ocean Pines, will be filled with local produce, baked goods and everything needed for a festive holiday home and table. “Our Thanksgiving Market has become a tradition for many Worcester County residents,” Market Manager David Bean said. “This year, we expect over 30 merchants to open their businesses for this special market day.” The tradition dates to 2012, when the farmers market grew from a seasonal happening to year-round marketplace and introduced several unique events. A Tuesday Thanksgiving Market was later added in 2017, to accommodate shoppers picking up freshly baked goods for their holiday dinner. On Saturday, marketplace greengrocer D. J. David & Company will have a large, curated selection of fresh fruits and vegetables. Local Hayman sweet potatoes and newly-harvested New Jersey cranberries are a favorite of the greengrocer’s shoppers. Kitchen staples, including celery, onions and fresh herbs will be available, along with popular vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower and brussels sprouts. Kale, cabbage and collard greens from local growers will also be abundant. DelVecchio’s Bakery will have a generous selection of baked goods, made at their Snow Hill bakery. Shoppers can expect breakfast Danish, and homeAssateague. For more information or for a list of needed cat supplies, visit www.crossfitassateague.com or its Facebook page @crossfitassateague. For those that can not attend, but still want to make a difference, CrossFit Assateague has sent up a GoFundMe Page at https://gofund.me/30f76e67.
made breads and pies for their holiday feast. For those who prefer to bake their own pies, the farmers at Stag Run Farm carry several varieties of orchard apples at the market. Included will be late-season Pink Lady apples, and heritage Black Twig apple. Fans of mulled cider and wine should visit JABBS spice shop, which offers several blends of mulling spices for warming up a festive beverage, including pumpkin and apple pie. Synder’s Produce and Pretty Things will again be selling their handmade wreaths and rope garland, through Christmas. Snyders works with regional Christmas tree growers to gather the perfect mix of winter greens. Each wreath and garland that comes to the market is handmade by the Snyders, and each comes with a beautiful bow to garnish the top. Additionally, many artisans and crafters will offer a variety of merchandise for those looking to shop locally for holiday gifts. Cove Craft & Treasures will feature a selection of seasonal decor for the home. Among their most popular items are decorative snowmen created from porch posts. Hand-painted ornaments can be found at the market gallery of Sally Crisp, and the jewelry makers at Storigems create many unique pieces available in matching sets for holiday giving. Along with the special Thanksgiving Market on Saturday, the Ocean Pines Farmers & Artisans Market will also open on Tuesday, Nov. 23 for lastminute shoppers and pick-up of specially ordered baked goods. The Tuesday market will be open from 9-11 a.m. in White Horse Park. The Ocean Pines Farmers & Artisans Market is open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon, through February. Inseason hours return in March, with the market open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, visit https://www.oceanpines.org/web/pag es/farmers-artisans-market.
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NOVEMBER 19, 2021
Ocean City Today
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Add butternut squash bread pudding to holiday spread By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer (Nov. 19, 2021) Thanksgiving is rapidly approaching and menu planning should be in full swing. Tradition and innovation go hand in hand. Bread pudding is an easy, delicious way to celebrate the upcoming holiday. It is also a great way to use stale bread. Contemporary versions of the casserole are breakfast, lunch, dinner, side, or dessert. Sweet or savory also add the incredible variance of this humble dish. For those who have never made bread pudding, following are a few tips to ensure success. The type of bread one chooses is crucial for the delectable texture that bread pudding is known for. In general, soft and airy breads such as Challah, French or Italian loafs are best suited for bread pudding. No matter what type of bread you choose, it must be stale. If one has to make bread pudding on the spur of the moment, bake fresh bread at 300 degrees until dry.
If one desires a crackly crust, dot the top of the pudding with additional toasted bread cubes before baking. Make sure the eggs are well beaten, this process helps the bread absorb the cream mixture. If eggs are not properly beaten, the bread pudding will have an eggy taste. When I first made this dish, I used half-and-half. While the flavor profiles were good, it was a little dense. I remade the dish and used heavy whipping cream - what a difference. The interior had a moist, creamy consistency. Bread pudding should be cooked for 50 to 60 minutes or until the center of the pudding reaches 160 degrees. Another way to tell if it is done is to simply insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, the bread pudding is ready to serve. The consistency of finished bread pudding is slightly mushy and semisolid. If the custard starts to break, it is a sign that the pudding is overcooked. Sauces are sometimes served with bread pudding. This is a tasty additive, but make sure it does not overpower the actual pudding. Heating up bread pudding can be tricky for the simple fact that it dries out
easily. To reheat, preheat oven to 350 degrees and cook covered with foil for 5 to 15 minutes. In closing, I had the pleasure of teaching a cooking class at Brandywine Living at Fenwick Island. Heather Cormack and staff were so gracious and made me feel at home. But the most memorable moment were the “special ladies” that attended the class. Their enthusiasm and smiles made my day. Butternut squash bread pudding was on the menu and the ladies gave it thumbs up. Thanksgiving is about sharing and being with family. Butternut squash’s natural sweetness and gorgeous color fits in with the theme of fall and is a creative way to enhance your feast. If one is considering a new dish, you must give butternut squash bread pudding a try. Enjoy and have a Happy
Thanksgiving!
Butternut Squash Bread Pudding Ingredients 7 cups butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1 ½-inch cubes 5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg, plus extra for garnishing ½ teaspoon black pepper, plus extra for garnishing 4 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 small sweet onion, minced 3 large cloves garlic, minced 8 large eggs, plus 1 egg yolk 4 cups heavy cream 1 ½ cups chicken broth 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon fresh thyme 1 teaspoon dried crushed rosemary See LADIES Page 29
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Every Wednesday: Live Music, 5-8 p.m.
15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, Located in The Courtyard by Marriott 410-289-7192/7191 / Captainstableoc.com Every Friday: Phil Perdue on Piano, 5-9 p.m.
SEACRETS
OCEAN CLUB 101st Street, Ocean City Clarion Fontainebleau Hotel 410-524-3535 / www.clarionoc.com Nov. 19-20: On The Edge, 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.
49th Street and the bay, Ocean City 410-524-4900 / www.seacrets.com Nov. 19: Kono Nation Duo, 5-9 p.m.; DJ Tuff, 6 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.; Nowhere Slow, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.; Lunasea Glow Party!, 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Nov. 20: John McNutt Band, 5-9 p.m.; DJ Tuff, 6 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.; DJ Cruz, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; Kono Nation, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m. THE VIEW AT THE CAMBRIA HOTEL
RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOT 300 Seabay Lane, Ocean City 410-723-2222 / www.ResidenceInnOC.com Every Friday: Live Music, 6-9 p.m. Every Sunday: Karaoke, 5-8 p.m.
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ON THE EDGE Ocean Club: Sat., & Sun., Nov. 19 & 20, 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.
JOHN MCNUTT BAND Seacrets: Sat., Nov. 20, 5-9 p.m.
Ocean City Today
NOVEMBER 19, 2021
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Ladies approve of butternut squash bread pudding dish Continued from Page 28 kosher salt to taste 14 ounces challah bread, cut into 1 ½inch cubes 8 ounces Gruyere cheese, shredded plus extra for garnishing 2 ounces Parmigiano Reggiano or Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnishing 1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Toss squash, 3 tablespoons olive oil, nutmeg and black pepper in a medium bowl, make sure all ingredients are well coated. Place squash on a baking sheet and cook for 45 minutes or until tender. Set aside. Reduce heat to 350 degrees. 2. In a medium sauté pan, heat remain-
ing 2 tablespoons olive oil over mediumlow heat. Add onions and garlic and sauté until translucent, about 7 minutes. 3. Coat a 13-x-9-inch baking dish with non-flavored cooking spray. Whisk onions, garlic, eggs, cream, broth, mustard, thyme, rosemary and salt until well combined. Add bread cubes, cooled squash, cheeses and mix until all bread cubes are fully soaked with the cream mixture. Spoon bread pudding into prepared dish; distribute any remaining liquid into the dish evenly. Allow to rest for 30 minutes. 4. Garnish dish with a dusting of nutmeg, pepper, Gruyere and Parmigiano
PAGE 29
Bartender event to benefit AGH (Nov. 19, 2021) Berlin brewery Burley Oak will partner with OC Ravens Roost #44 and Atlantic General Hospital to host a guest bartender night fundraiser on Nov. 22, from 6-9 p.m. During this three-hour window, leadership from the Ravens Roost and Atlantic General will be behind the bar to serve drinks to the community. The guest bartenders include: Reggiano cheese. Bake uncovered for 50 minutes or until the center is fully cooked. Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread pudding to ensure doneness. Allow to cool 15 minutes before serving. Secret Ingredient – Giving. “Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds you plant.” Robert Louis Stevenson
• OC Ravens Roost #44 Board Chair Frank Berterman • Co-interim President/CEO and Vice President of Medical Affairs Sally Dowling, MD • Vice President of Public Relations Toni Keiser • Director of Pharmacy James McGinnis • Director of Endoscopy Terry Moore • Director of Population Health Tina Simmons • Director of Quality Bob Yocubik The fundraiser is free to attend, and participants will be provided the opportunity to win raffle prizes. Burley Oak will be donating 10 percent of beer sales and 50 percent of tips to the Ravens Roost Penguin Swim Team in support of Atlantic General Hospital’s 28th annual Penguin Swim to be held on New Year’s Day.
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 410289-7192, www. captainstableoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Featuring seafood, steaks and poultry. Daily chef specials. Breakfast and lunch Wednesday through Friday, 8-11 a.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 8 p.m. to noon. Dinner and Lite fare Wednesday through Sunday, 5-9 p.m. Dine in or carry out available. ■ COASTAL SALT 16th Street and the Boardwalk, Ocean City 410-973-7258, www.coastalsaltoc.com $$-$$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Enjoy and dine with the beautiful view of the ocean with Reel Eats & High Spirits. Now open Thursday through Sunday. Breakfast begins at 8 a.m., lunch at noon and dinner at 4 p.m. Happy Hour, 2-5 p.m. Wonderful starters, soups, salads, lite fare, and entrees. Famous bone-in ribeye, burgers, crab cakes, tacos, thyme roasted chicken and so much more. Dine in or carry out. ■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT 28th Street Plaza and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100, www.coinspuboc.com $$ | 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, 3-6 p.m. with food and drink specials. Early bird daily, 4-6 p.m. with special dinner menu. Open Monday through Thursday, Friday and Saturday at noon; Sunday at 9:30 a.m. 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. But-
termilk pancakes, fresh handmade dough pizza and Italian dinners. We have something for everyone! ■ THE VICTORIA ROOM Located in the Dunes Manor Hotel, 2800 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City 410-289-1100 $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Oceanfront dining with coastal inspired dishes along with regional favorites, craft cocktails, small-plates and a relaxed ambiance. Serving breakfast and dinner with spectacular ocean views. The house specialty – Maryland Crab Cakes are some of the best in Ocean City. Open 7 days a week. Dine in, take out, no deliveries. ■ THE VIEW RESTAURANT AND BAR AT CAMBRIA, OC Located in the Cambria Hotel, 13 St. Louis Avenue, Ocean City 410-280-1645 or 410520-4541 Open to the public with a new full menu, breakfast, lunch and dinner. Happy Hour each day from 3-9 p.m. Open 7 a.m. daily until midnight Fridays and Saturdays and until 10 p.m. all other days. Enjoy overlooking the bay with fresh baked pastries on premise. Wounder appetizers, salads, sandwiches, entrees and flatbreads.
MIDTOWN
29th to 90th streets ■ 32 PALM Located in The Hilton,32nd Street, Ocean City 410-289-2525, www.32palm.com $$ | 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. ■ THE DOUGH ROLLER 41st Street and Coastal Highway 410-5249254; 70th Street and Coastal Highway 410524-7981, www.TheDoughRoller.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Online ordering See downtown locations for description. ■ JOHNNY’S PIZZA PUB 56th Street, Ocean City 410-723-5600, www.johnnyspizzapub.com $ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Featuring homemade pizzas, 18 gourmet pizzas, a variety of calzones, subs, burgers, sandwiches and jumbo wings with 20 different sauces. Open everyday, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Dine in, pickup, carryout and delivery. ■ LONGBOARD CAFÉ 6701 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City 443-6645639, www.longboardcafe.net $$-$$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Classic and creative American dishes and cocktails are showcased in a festive, surfthemed setting with weekly specials. Featur-
ing burgers, tacos, prime rib, seafood and more. Open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Closed on Tuesdays. Dine-in and curbside pick-up. ■ MARLIN MOON Located in the Double Tree Hotel, 3301 Atlantic Ave., Ocean City 410-289-1201, www.marlinmoonocmd.com $$ 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. ■ RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOTT 61st Street Bayside/2nd Floor @ Bayview Bar & Grill, Ocean City 443- 664-7043 $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Bayfront dining with a casual atmosphere. Specializing in burgers, flat breads, crab cakes, shrimp burgers and full dinner specials. Happy Hour daily, 4-7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 4-10 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 4-11 p.m. (kitchen until 10 p.m.) and NFL specials all day Sunday. ■ SEACRETS 49th Street, Ocean City 410-524-4900, www.seacrets.com $$ | 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 ■ HORIZONS OCEANFRONT RESTAURANT, BREAKERS PUB & LENNY’S BEACH BAR & GRILL Inside the Clarion, 101st Street, Ocean City 410-524-3535, www.clarionoc.com $-$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Serving beach-inspired dishes in our oceanfront restaurants, Horizons and Breakers Pub. All-day menu, available 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner including light fare and steamer specials. ■ THE CURRENT RESTAURANT Located on the sun terrace at the Princess Royale Oceanfront Resort, 9100 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 21842 443-856-2367, www.princessroyale.com $-$$ | Dine in | Full bar Open to the public, open-ocean air dining, providing an experience unique to any other in Ocean City. Commanding view of the Atlantic Ocean and East Lawn. Enjoy a range of coastal cuisine, signature cocktails, local craft beers and live entertainment. Locals receive 25 percent off food and drink. Must show valid ID. Closing for the winter this Sunday. ■ OCHO RIOS JERK & TINGS 11805 Coastal Highway, Unit N, Ocean City
443-664-7275, www.ochoricosjerkandtings.com $$ | Full bar Serving you authentic Jamaican food, appetizers, lunch specials, stew, salads, burger, jerk shrimp or chicken, and entrees. Steak, oxtail, seafood, and chicken with many special sauces. Signature jerk excoveitched or BBQ. Side dishes with rice and peas, fried sweet plantains, fried cornmeal dough and mac & cheese. Desserts, Jamaican rum cake, NY cheesecake and red velvet cake. Closed Monday thru Wednesday. Thursday and Sunday, noon to 8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday, noon to 10 p.m. ■ THAI O-CHA 13727 Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410250-9918, www.thaiochamd.com $$ | Serving authentic Thai food, full vegan menu and vegetarian options including curry, rice and noodle dishes. Homemade appetizers, soups, and sauces. Seafood, meat, chicken, stir fries, vegetable, tofu, and desserts. Dine in or takeout. Early Bird Special Sunday, Monday and Thursday, 4-6 p.m. Closed Tuesday and Wednesday. Open noon to 8 p.m.
WEST OCEAN CITY ■ OC CHOPSTICKS Asian Bistro 12741 Ocean Gateway, Suite 890, West Ocean City (Outlets Ocean City) 410-8011111, 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 Thursday through Sunday, 11 a.m.
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Ocean City Today
NOVEMBER 19, 2021
Schools in Worcester County received $30,727 in grant funding through the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore’s 2021 Fall Education Grants Program. Pictured are Worcester County educators.
Lower shore schools receive $90,024 in education grants (Nov. 19, 2021) Schools in Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester counties received $90,024 in grant funding through the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore’s 2021 Fall Education Grants Program. As students have returned to inperson learning, teachers are eager to jumpstart new programs that are engaging and supportive of current needs. Funds will be distributed across 23 school-based programs. Educators and school districts were honored at an reception on Nov. 10 at James M. Bennett High School in Salisbury. “By supporting the educators who serve our community’s future leaders, we are growing a brighter future for the lower shore community,” said Community Foundation President Erica Joseph. “It is so inspiring to see the unique opportunities and projects area teachers are creating to enrich learning for children across the shore.” Education grants are made annually in conjunction with National Education Week through a competitive process to public and private grade schools on the lower Eastern Shore of Maryland. Grants are made to those schools that have developed innovative programs to enhance education and improve the social, emotional and physical wellbeing of their students and communities. Worcester County schools were presented $30,727. The following programs in Worcester received Education Award Grants for the 2021/2022 school year: * Berlin Intermediate School will expand its library collection to include titles focused on diversity, social-emotional learning and graphic novels.
CROSSWORD
* Buckingham Elementary School will create a literary vending machine to be used as part of its One School One Book program. * Buckingham Elementary School will host an after-school Glee Club that will allow choral students to showcase their talents for the community. * Pocomoke Middle School will expand its Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports program incentives. * Showell Elementary School will create outdoor learning spaces for gardens, science projects and activities. * Snow Hill Elementary will increase the school’s collection of literature focused on diversity and inclusion. * Stephen Decatur Middle School will expand its library’s collection of graphic novels. As leaders, grant makers and stewards of philanthropy, the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore connects people who care to causes that matter for the common good of the Lower Eastern Shore. It is a 501c3 nonprofit with an inspiring history of fostering charitable endeavors, and has provided $94 million in grants and scholarships to the local community since 1984. It collaborates with individuals, families and businesses to match their charitable interests with community needs and strengthens local nonprofits through grants and resources. CFES is devoted to improving the regional community and believes in the power of philanthropy. For information, contact Victoria Kent, marketing officer, at 410-7429911 or vkent@CFES.org.
Home Need Improvements? FILL Check out the
ry o t c e r i D e c i Serv For a variety of local contractors
Answers on page 27
NOVEMBER 19, 2021
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Ocean City Today
Ceremony to celebrate Eagle Scouts (Nov. 19, 2021) In 2019, two local young men achieved the coveted Eagle Scout rank of the Boy Scouts of America. Then, in early 2020 when covid hit, Kurt Leinemann of Ocean City, and Gabriel Bradley of Ocean Pines, could not be installed as Eagle Scouts with the formal ceremony that normally is held for the occasion. Finally, on Aug. 22, Leinemann, now 19, and Bradley, 20, of Boy Scout Troop 261, were celebrated during a two-hour Eagle Scout Court of Honor at American Legion Post 166, in Ocean City. The Post is a sponsor of the troop and supports it with monetary donations and the use of its facilities for programs such as the Eagle Scout ceremony. The main hall of the post was packed with well over 100 family, friends, scouts and members of the American Legion post, to witness the ceremony. Among them was Jeorg Leinemann, Kurt’s father, one of the scout leaders present at the proceedings and the first scout in Troop 261 to have earned Eagle Scout status. Helping to install the two young men was their Scoutmaster, Kenny Nichols, who announced at the event that he was stepping down from the post after leading the troop since 2008. Nichols was born and raised in Ocean City and now lives in Salis-
bury. He was honored by the two new Eagle Scouts when they were given an opportunity as part of the program to recognize with a special pin a mentor who was pivotal in their lives. Both chose Nichols. Leinemann is a graduate of Worcester Prep in Berlin and is now attending the University of Maryland, College Park. Bradley is a Stephen Decatur alumnus who is taking classes at Wor-Wic Community College. Both have been a member of Troop 261 since 2012.
Gabriel Bradley of Ocean Pines, left, and Kurt Leinemann of Ocean City, were recently recognized during a ceremony at the American Legion Post 166, in Ocean City.
Turkey Bowl Pickleball tourney (Nov. 19, 2021) Join Worcester County Recreation and Parks for the Turkey Bowl Pickleball Tournament, Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 20-21, at the Worcester County Recreation Center in Snow Hill. Saturday will be men’s and women’s doubles and Sunday will be mixed doubles. Doors will open and check-in will begin at 7:30 a.m. Gameplay will start at 8 a.m.
The tournament is open to players ages 18 and older. The cost per person is $40, which includes a T-shirt. To play, register online at www.pickleballtournaments.com. For more information, contact Allen Swiger at 410-632-2144 x2520 or email aswiger@marylandscoast.org. To view a full list of upcoming special events, visit www.playmarylandscoast.org.
As part of the ceremony, the two Scouts received numerous accolades from elected officials. Gov. Larry Hogan sent a message and proclamations were presented to them from State Sen. Mary Beth Carozza, Del. Wayne Hartman, and U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen. The Vietnam Veterans of America also presented them with its National Eagle Scout Medal, created in 2019 in response to periodic requests from scouting for a tribute to Eagle Scouts on behalf of Vietnam veterans.
Worcester GOLD holiday program (Nov. 19, 2021) Worcester County G.O.L.D. (Giving Other Lives Dignity), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is holding its Helping Hands for the Holidays program once again this year. In 2020, GOLD provided holiday gifts for 649 children and 74 vulnerable adults. This program provides Worcester County families and individuals in need with holiday gifts to help reduce financial burden and stress during the holidays. All recipients are screened by GOLD’s community partners to assess need and to prevent the duplication of services. “The pressure to provide holiday gifts can weigh on families struggling with low to no income,” said Nicholas Cranford, executive director. “With cost of living increasing and temporary benefits expiring, holiday assistance will come as a tremendous relief to those we serve.” To participate in the Helping Hands for the Holidays program sign up to sponsor a family, donate toys (new and unwrapped), or mail a check to be used by GOLD to purchase gifts. The deadline for sponsor signup is Nov. 22 and all gifts must be dropped off by Dec. 10. GOLD will accept monetary donations throughout the holiday season. For more information about GOLD’s programs and services, visit www.WorcesterGOLD.org.
NOW OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!
YOU HAVE OUR T R I E DO U S FAM ES? AK CR ABC WEDNESDAY - DJ WAX 10PM CLOSED THANKSGIVING DAY
BLACK FRIDAY SPECIAL WEEKEND
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HOMECOMING
Students at Worcester Preparatory School celebrated spirit week Oct. 4-9, by dressing accordingly to each day of the week’s theme. Pictured during homecoming on Oct. 9, is teacher Kira Gauger and her daughters, Ayla and Evelyn Eade.
MONDAY: BURGER & PRIME RIB NIGHT TUESDAY: SEAFOOD FRENZY NIGHT WEDNESDAY: MAMBO ITALIANO NIGHT THURSDAY: SHRIMP & "LOBSTER" NIGHT SUNDAY: NFL DISCOUNT DOUBLE CHECK DAY & NIGHT Hand Cut Steaks • Fresh Scallops • Fresh Soft Shell Crabs 19 BIG SCREENS TO WATCH ALL YOUR SPORTS ACTION NFL AND COLLEGE FOOTBALL PACKAGES • KENO HAPPY HOUR DAILY 3PM-6PM
EARLY BIRD DAILY 4PM-6PM
Food and Drink Specials
Special Dinner Menu
Open Monday-Thursday at 3pm Friday & Saturday at Noon • Sunday at 9:30
Dine-In • Carry-Out & Online Ordering www.coinspuboc.com
28th Street Plaza • 410-289-3100
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NOVEMBER 19, 2021
Ocean City Today
COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS
FIRE PREVENTION (Left) Worcester Preparatory School hosted the Berlin Fire Company on Oct. 4, for a Fire Prevention Assembly to explain the importance in knowing fire safety measures. Firefighter Colby Sirman, dressed in fire gear, interacts with students. (Right) Pictured, from left, are students Liam McAllister, Jack Jarvis, John Parker, Brock Hidell, Emerson Bofinger, Elliott Mason, Sparky the Fire Dog, Hannah Coyle and Kaylin Zervakos.
PROCLAMATION Worcester County Commissioner Ted Elder presents a proclamation to Fire Marshal Jeff McMahon recognizing Oct. 3-9, 2021 as Worcester County Fire Prevention Week and October as Fire Prevention Month in Worcester County. Learn about fire safety and form a Family Action Plan at https://www.nfpa.org/Events/Events/Fire-Prevention-Week.
BIOLOGY CLASS Jenn Corron’s Worcester Prep 10th grade biology class met in the lab to recreate plant and animal cells with gelatin and craft pieces. Baylor Hoen, left, and Kannon Cropper move the pieces to the appropriate parts of the cell.
PHOTO COURTESY RAY HILL OF RH IMAGERY PHOTOS PHOTO COURTESY D.J. LANDIS, SR.
NEW OFFICERS Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City installed new officers on Sept. 29, at White Horse Park. Pictured, from left, are Board of Directors member Dick Clagett, President-Elect Bob Wolfing, BOD member Tom Southwell, BOD and Outgoing President Steve Cohen, BOD member Jackie Dubin, Secretary-Treasurer Carolyn Dryzga, and BOD members Dave Landis and Roy Foreman. Recording Secretary Pat Winkelmayer, BOD member Sue Wineke and Assistant Treasurer Patricia Baglieri are not pictured.
HONORED Adriano “Bubba” Almony, multi-award winning celebrity bodyguard, was honored on Oct. 18, by Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan and town council with a proclamation that declared the entire month of October as Bullying Prevention Month in Ocean City. Council also recognized Almony’s efforts to help eradicate bullying. In addition, he was recently honored by The Los Angeles Tribune as the top anti-bullying advocate in the nation.
NOVEMBER 19, 2021
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Ocean City Today
COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS
PHOTO COURTESY D.J. LANDIS, SR.
RECOGNITION Shelley Cohen recently received the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City’s Presidential Advisor Award from organization president, and her husband, Steve.
SPIRIT WEEK Students at Worcester Preparatory School celebrated spirit week Oct. 4-9, by dressing accordingly to each day of the week’s theme. Pictured, standing from left during Character Day, are Brice Richins, Jarett Sofronski, Marshall Mumford, Austin Cannon, Jordan Willey and Riley Schoch, and kneeling, Bennett Tinkler, Anderson Taylor and Tristan Weinstein.
HOME TOUR (Left) Christine and Brian Selzer display a custom home portrait of their South Point residence that is included on the 2021 Virtual Sand Castle Home Tour, which was held during the month of October. The Art League of Ocean City presented the couple with the portrait painted by artist Jackie Adkins during the Home Tour party at Spain Wine Bar at the Cambria Hotel on Oct. 11. (Right) Sand Castle Home Tour homeowner Susan Eubank received her gift home portrait from artist Gerilyn Gaskill at the Art League of Ocean City's celebration of the tour's homeowners and sponsors.
BERLIN TOUR
PROCLAMATION
Berlin Intermediate School sixth grade students in Kelly Powell’s enrichment class toured downtown Berlin for different electrical elements. Students then applied their findings toward the discovery and creation of a light circuit. Pictured are Mackenna Foreman, Emory Jack, Catrina Donmoyer, Donavon Robbins, Israel David, Aiden Buchheit and Tanner Edelmann.
The Worcester County Commissioners joined with Patty Behr, president of the Eastern Shore Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland, to proclaim Oct. 15, 2021 as White Caine Awareness Day in Worcester County to encourage area residents and employers to value the white cane as a tool of independence for the blind in both public spaces and businesses.
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Duo steals car from Baltimore Continued from Page 24 Officers read Willis his rights before he told them he was in town with his brother, Braxton, and Clark because Braxton had court the next day. When police told Willis the car was stolen, he denied knowing it until later, when he admitted to an OCPD lieutenant he knew the car was stolen and he was involved in the theft. Clark also told police she was unaware the car was stolen, saying if she knew she would not have gotten in. Police ran a background check of Clark and discovered she had a warrant for her arrest from the State Police for failing to appear in court. All three were placed under arrest: Braxton and Willis for theft and unauthorized use of a vehicle and Clark for her warrant.
Ocean City Today
NOVEMBER 19, 2021
POLICE/COURTS
Fighting knife possession
Disorderly and resisting
Zachary Warren Ralph, 37, of Dagsboro, Delaware was arrested by Ocean City Police at 2:05 a.m. on Nov. 10 near 15th Street and charged with intoxicated endangerment, disorderly conduct, and possession of a fighting knife, among other things. Police said Ralph was seen staggering on the sidewalk when another man walked up to him. Ralph leaned on the man before he pushed Ralph away, saying, “What the ****,” before walking away quickly, according to police. Officers approached Ralph and believed he was under the influence of alcohol. He was then placed under arrest for disorderly conduct and public intoxication. When searched, police found a Gerber pocketknife with a lever on the handle. Police described the lever as being designed to open the blade with a spring.
Christjon Joseph Huddleston, 68, of Salisbury was arrested by Ocean City Police at approximately 10 p.m. on Nov. 13 at a hotel near 56th Street and charged with disorderly conduct and resisting arrest. Police said officers responded to reports of a disorderly man in a room at the hotel and when they arrived at the room, Huddleston opened the door and the officers saw his wife laying on the floor face down. Huddleston reportedly told officers his wife had too much to drink, though officers wanted to enter the room to check on her. Huddleston then apparently told officers he did not want them in the room and asked the officers to leave. Huddleston began yelling at the officers, according to police documents, saying they had no right to be in there. When the front desk employee
walked up to the room, he told officers he received more complaints from tenants about Huddleston being too loud. Huddleston demanded the officers leave, police said, and they responded if he did not quiet down, he would go to jail for being disorderly. He told officers he was not being loud, and they could not arrest him because he was a physician. As officers walked away from the room, Huddleston continued to yell at them and tenants continued to express discontent with the situation, according to police. The officers walked back to Huddleston and placed him under arrest for being disorderly. When they attempted to place cuffs on him, police added, Huddleston resisted. He was ultimately detained and taken to the public safety building for processing.
WORLD WAR II
Operation Crusader leads to siege of Tobruk By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer (Nov. 19, 2021) Today, 80 years ago, the 22nd Brigade, commanded by Brig. Gen. John Scott-Cockburn, launched its attack against the Axis position at Bir el Gubi, in Libya. The position was held by the Italian Ariete Armoured Division, commanded by Mario Balotta, who had assumed command of the division on July 21, 1941. By the end of the day, after seven assaults, Scott-Cockburn’s men had lost between 50 and 60 tanks, with about one-third of those due to breakdowns. This was the opening round of “Operation Crusader,” which would lift the siege of Tobruk.
Gen. Balotta’s Ariete Division was tasked with guarding the southern flank of what was now known as Panzergruppe Afrika, commanded by Gen. Erwin Rommel. This force consisted of the Deutsches Afrika Korps, commanded by Ludwig Crüwell; the Corpo d’Armata di Manovra, commanded by Lt. Gen. Gastone Gambara; and XXI Italian Corps, commanded by Enea Navarini. Gen. Balotta’s Ariete Armoured Division and the Trieste Motorized Infantry Division commanded by Gen. Arnaldo Azzi, who had only been in command a month, comprised Gen. Gambara’s Corpo d’Armata di Manovra. Gen. Navarini’s XXI Corps
manned the siege works around Tobruk, and was comprised of Pavia, Bologna, Brescia, and Trento Infantry Divisions, commanded by Antonio Franceschini, Alessandro Gloria, Bortolo Zambon, and Giuseppe de Stefanis. Gen. Crüwell’s Afrika Korps contained the 15th and 21st Panzerdivisions and the Afrika and Savona Infantry Divisions, commanded by Walter Neumann-Silkow, Johann von Ravenstein, Max Sümmermann, and Fedele de Giorgis. Gens. Neumann-Silkow and Sümmermann did not survive “Operation Crusader.” Gen. von Ravenstein was captured during the fighting at Sidi Rezegh on Nov. 28 Gen. de Stefanis’ Trento Motorized Infantry Division
had the responsibility of defending Bir Hachim, about 50 miles west of Bir el Gubi. At 8 a.m., on Nov. 19, pursuant to orders from 7th Armoured Division’s commander, “Strafer” Gott, Gen. Scott-Cockburn’s 22nd Armoured Brigade opened up with its artillery, generating a response from the Italians. Three hours later, Gen. ScottCockburn sent 40 Cruiser Mark VI tanks to attack the Italian position. They were opposed by the Italian M14 medium tanks. After 10 minutes, the British retired, having lost eight tanks. The Italians had lost three tanks, with seven damaged. Continued on Page 46
NOVEMBER 19, 2021
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Ocean City Today
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., Nov. 19 GOOGLE APPS 101
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m.noon. Drop in and learn how to use some of Google’s many features such as Google Sheets, Google Calendar and Google Drive. Feel free to bring your own electronic device. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-632-2600
ST. MARY STAR OF THE SEA CHRISTMAS BAZAAR
St. Mary Star of the Sea, 1705 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Enjoy shopping our gift stores, jewelry counters, plants, toys, home made sweets and a raffle auction not to mention the delicious food that will be available for carry out. Come join in the fun!
BERLIN BOOK OF THE MONTH: ‘THE UNCOUPLING’ BY MEG WOLITZER
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Lively discussion facilitated by Cynthia Hanagud and Gail Samis of Salisbury University. Copies of the book are available at the Berlin branch. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-632-2600
SEAFOOD NIGHT AT BERLIN FIRE COMPANY Berlin Fire Co. Headquarters, 214 N. Main St., 4:30-7 p.m. Half pound steamed shrimp, macaroni salad and French fries for $15 or one pound steamed shrimp (no sides) for $20. http://berlinfire.com, 410-641-1977
Sat., Nov. 20 TURKEY BOWL PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT
Worcester County Recreation Center, 6030 Public Landing Road, Snow Hill, 8 a.m. Check-in begins at 7:30 a.m. For ages 18 years and older. Cost is $40 and includes a T-shirt. Register: www.pickleballtournaments.com. Allen Swiger, 410-632-2144, Ext. 2502, aswiger@marylandscoast.org.
FIRE DEPARTMENT FUNDRAISER & RECRUITMENT
White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines, 9 a.m.-noon. Stop by the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department’s booth and purchase your truck raffle tickets, Green Number Plate Signs and learn about becoming a member of the department. 410-641-8272
SPECIAL THANKSGIVING FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET
White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines, 9 a.m.-noon. The market will be filled with local produce, baked goods, decorations, gifts and everything needed for a festive holiday home and table. Open to the public. www.oceanpines.org, 410-641-7717
ING
Community Church at Ocean Pines, 11227 Racetrack Road, 6 p.m. Different congregations come together as one body as they share scripture, sing and give thanks. Time of fellowship afterward. Bring non-perishable food for Diakonia and a side dish or snack to share. 410-641-5433
COMMUNITY’S THANKSGIVING SERVICE
First Presbyterian Church of Ocean City, 1301 Philadelphia Ave., 7-8 p.m. The Ocean City Christian Ministries Association invites everyone. Desserts and fellowship will follow the service. Food, paper products and an offering will be collected for the needy. 410289-9340
VIRTUAL WALK WITH A DOC
Visit AGH’s Facebook page, where there will be a short presentation by one of their providers, 9 a.m. Then walk and share your selfie on social media with #walkedwithagh. tsimmons@atlanticgeneral.org
TURKEY TROT OPEN
Eagle’s Landing Golf Course, 12367 Eagles Nest Road, Berlin, 9:30 a.m. Golf tournament and turkey dinner feast. Entry fee is $60 and includes greens fee, cart, food and prizes. Sign up: 410-2137277 or email Robert Croll, RCroll@oceancitymd.gov. www.eagleslandinggolf.com.
CRAFTY SATURDAY: FALL & THANKSGIVING CRAFTS
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Make some great crafts, perfect for the fall and Thanksgiving. While supplies last. For ages 4 years and older. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-6322600
FLU SHOT CLINIC
Sturgis Park, 299 River St., Snow Hill, 10 a.m.-noon. For ages 13 years and older. 410-641-9358, agh.care/flu.
FRIED CHICKEN DINNER
New Hope United Methodist Church, 7348 New Hope Road, Willards, 11 a.m. Menu includes mashed potatoes, greens, string beans, roll and dessert. Cost is $14 for adults. Drive through pickup only. 410-543-8244, 443-235-0251
Sun., Nov. 21 TURKEY BOWL PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT
Worcester County Recreation Center, 6030 Public Landing Road, Snow Hill, 8 a.m. Check-in begins at 7:30 a.m. For ages 18 years and older. Cost is $40 and includes a T-shirt. Register: www.pickleballtournaments.com. Allen Swiger, 410-632-2144, Ext. 2502, aswiger@marylandscoast.org.
Mon., Nov. 22
STORY TIME ‘GIVING THANKS’
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and fingerplays. Takehome activity included. For 2-5 year old children. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-632-2600
DELMARVA HAND DANCE
Tuesdays - Selbyville Elks Lodge 2173, 13324 Worcester Highway, Bishopville, 5:30-9:00 p.m. Show proof of vaccination or wear a mask. A picture on your phone of your vaccination card is acceptable. delmarvahanddance@gmail.com, https://delmarvahanddancing.com
WRITING FOR WELLNESS
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:30 p.m. Writing about stressful experiences like illness, may boost health and psychological well-being. Group uses exercises to stimulate creative expression. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-6322600
Wed., Nov. 24 CRAFT TIME ‘GOBBLE GOBBLE TURKEY’
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Make fun activities for turkey day. For 2-5 year old children. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-632-2600
T.O.P.S. OF BERLIN - GROUP #169
Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 5-6:30 p.m. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a weekly support and educational group promoting weight loss and living a health lifestyle. Rose Campion, 410-6410157
PAGE TURNERS BOOK CLUB
DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS
GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP
Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 7:00-9:00 p.m. All ladies that love to sing invited. Contact Mary, 410-629-9383 or Carol Ludwig, 302-242-7062.
Tues., Nov. 23 SPECIAL THANKSGIVING FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET
White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines, 9-11 a.m. The market will be filled with local produce, baked goods, decorations, gifts and everything needed for a festive holiday home and table. Open to the public. www.oceanpines.org, 410-641-7717
ANNUAL COAT & TOY DRIVE
Ocean Pines Community Center Parking Lot, 235 Ocean Parkway, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean PinesOcean City will be collecting unwrapped toys, coats, boots, shoes, thermal ware, sweatshirts, sweaters, jeans, gloves, scarves and blankets. djlandissr@gmail.com, 410-641-7330
CRAFT TIME ‘HAPPY THANKSGIVING’ A GREATER BERLIN INTERFAITH GATHER-
Branch, 301 Market St., 10:30 a.m. Play games and complete crafts to celebrate Thanksgiving. For 2-5 year old children. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-6322600
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke
Meeting via Zoom, 3:30 p.m. Discuss the book “Always Looking Up: Nancy Grace Roman, Astronomer.” Title available on Hoopla. For ages 8-11 years. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-6322600
Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 5:30-7 p.m. Providing participants with hope for the future. Gail Mansell, 410641-9725, gmansell@atlanticgeneral.org.
Thurs., Nov. 25 THANKSKITTEN FUN RUN/WALK IN SUPPORT OF TOWN CATS
Veterans Memorial Park, Race Track Road, Ocean Pines, 9-11 a.m. In person registration begins at 8:30 a.m. Online registration: www.crossfitassateague.com. Cost is $15 for adults, $10 for children 13 and older and free to those 12 years and younger. 443-513-4520
42ND ANNUAL FREE THANKSGIVING DINNER
Ocean City Baptist Church, 102 N. Division St., 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Come and receive a free Thanksgiving dinner. RSVP: 410-289-4054 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Friday or OCBaptist.com. Dinners will be delivered to shut-ins in Ocean City and West Ocean City.
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NOVEMBER 19, 2021
Ocean City Today
Letters to the editor Tourism could suffer from wind turbine placement
Editor, I am writing in response to Arlo Hemphill’s letter of Nov. 4 with regard to the controversial wind turbines planned off our Maryland and Delaware coastlines. Currently, Orsted proposes to construct 82 845-foot-tall wind turbines that will be visible from shore both night and day. Please see the Ocean City Government website for illustrations of what they will look like. http://upload.oceancitymd.gov/driv e/s/BKOfLOlZvdkOzzd6Yps3nsP39 OGEI1 There is room in the two lease areas for as many as 200 or more 12MW wind turbines. Certainly, Mr. Hemphill is correct in that this involves more than just the permanent residents of Ocean City. It involves anyone who comes to and loves the beach. Think of the blue-collar worker who brings his children to the beach each year. Will their enjoyment be the same with these manmade towers cluttering the horizon, their visible red warning lights flashing throughout the night? Will they spend their hard-earned dollars as they have before or go somewhere else that is more appealing?
Studies show that visible wind turbines might decrease tourism between 15 percent and 38 percent and this would have a devastating impact on home values, jobs, and the tax base. As for the feared sea level rise, NOAA global tidal gages show that there is no visible increase in the rate of sea level rise, which by the way, has been rising for 20,000 years (http://www.sealevel.info/MSL_glob al_thumbnails5.html). The current rate of rise is approximately 5-8 inches per century and is hardly alarming. As for the supposed benefit with regard to fighting climate change, a Maryland Public Service Commission’s Report found that the wind turbine project would actually increase regional CO2 emissions within the 13-state PJM electrical grid. (http://www.levitan.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Levitan-Associates-Inc.-Evaluation-and-Compa rison.-Revised-Public-Version.-CaseNo.-9431.-ML-214140.pdf). Clearly, this nation needs to find clean sources of energy but they need to be both affordable and reliable. Offshore wind power costs four times more than onshore wind power. Solar energy is also considerably cheaper. The wind also tends to blow the least
BLINDS & SHADES
when power demand is at its highest. Thus, wind power cannot replace most fossil fuel and nuclear power energy. Orsted, a Danish-owned company, will receive billions of dollars of subsidies which will significantly increase the cost of electricity in our area. Once constructed, there will be few permanent jobs created. Higher electricity prices will harm the poor who can least afford it. Private business will bear the brunt of hundreds of millions of dollars in higher annual electricity prices. Why risk our beach when there are other, better, and more affordable alternatives? Geoff Pohanka Bethany Beach
Pricey upgrades to tourism department
Editor, It has recently been revealed that the Mayor & City Council (M&CC) of the Town of Ocean City are creating a whole new tourism department. Over the next six months they will add the following positions: director of sales, public relations specialist, social and digital media specialist, graphic designer and brand manager, advertising and research specialist, and sports marketing and event manager. These six new positions alone will cost the town nearly $500,000 a year in starting salaries and benefits. There is further indication that
CONSTRUCTION
a sales division and a marketing team will be assembled under two of the above positions. Who knows how many new positions will be created? The job descriptions of the above positions reveal that some of the duties previously performed by our advertising agency will now be done in house. If so, why do we need an advertising agency? The M&CC have made it clear that they want to help tourism. That is fine, but we are already doing it by our strong public safety departments, namely Police, Fire, EMS and Beach Patrol. We are already doing it with a clean environment and a pristine beach. We are already doing it with water, wastewater, trash collection and sound infrastructure. It is one thing to help and enhance our local tourism industry, but this M&CC wants to operate the tourism industry. In FY21, they had $7.46 million in advertising funds to spend. Now, they want to control all marketing and to “rebrand” the town. Advertising and marketing are not functions of government. They should be left to the private sector. If the town sticks to the basics of public safety and a clean environment, and the tourism industry puts out a good, affordable product, Ocean City will thrive. Vincent dePaul Gisriel Jr. Ocean City Continued on Page 46
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Ocean City Today
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Ocean City Today
November 19, 2021
Call 410-723-6397 Classifieds appear in Ocean City Today & Bayside Gazette each week and online at oceancitytoday.com & baysideoc.com
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FT/PT LIFEGUARD OPPORTUNITIES at the Health and Aquatic Club in Bayside
in Selbyville with competitive pay up to $15/hour, based on experience. Training & Uniforms provided.
Contact Bob Tugya: 302.988.2315
Funeral Associate/Groundskeeper The Burbage Funeral Home located in Berlin, MD is looking for several individuals to join our funeral home staff. Some job duties include assisting funeral directors with funeral services, doing removals both during normal business hours and after hours, and maintaining funeral home grounds. Must be willing to work nights and/or weekends and be on call as needed. Also must be able to lift 100 pounds. A valid driver's license is required. Send resume to: j.weldon@burbagefuneralhome.com
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Front Desk Clerk
Small Engine Mechanic Year-round. Competitive wages. 443-754-1047
B-3/Piano Player to accompany singing drummer. Rascals, Soul Survivors, etc. 301-254-9865
CASHIER WANTED. Delaware Tobacco Outlet, 100 Coastal Hwy., Suite 3, Fenwick Island, DE 19944. Apply in person.
Atlantic Shores Sotheby’s Int Realty is hiring
MULTIPLE YEAR-ROUND POSITIONS for Vacasa in Bethany Beach (20 minutes from OC). More info and to apply: vacasa.com/careers
Now hiring part-time Front Desk Clerk. Must be 21 years of age, computer experience, upbeat attitude, and superb front desk skills. Please contact the Membership/Assessment office at: member@oceanpines.org
COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION MANAGER Local real estate management office in Bethany Beach is looking for a Community Association Manager to oversee a number of our resort communities. Applicant must have experience in community management, excellent communication skills, and strong organizational and time management skills. Full time position with benefits.
Email resume to: Jodi@wilgusassociates.com
Real Estate Agents No experience needed. Please text Steven Diaz for more information.
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CONSTRUCTION WORKERS/ CARPENTERS Must have experience. Competitive pay. Call 443-856-5600 or email your resume at skylineconstructionoc@ gmail.com
Work At The BEACH... Work With The BEST!!
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WEIGHT ROOM ATTENDANTS Sea Colony, Bethany Beach (20 minutes from OC) Experience not necessary. Info and apply: vacasa.com/careers or Jen Neal: jennifer.neal@vacasa.com
RENTALS RENTALS Seeking YR & Seasonal Rentals! Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555.
WEEKLY RENTALS AVAILABLE NOW Poolfront ................$245/wk Efficiency..............$275/wk 2BR Apartment.....$350/wk 3BR Suite .............$425/wk Burgundy Inn 1210 Philadelphia Ave. 410-289-8581
for our WOC kitchen facility Up to $18/hr. Apply online at: www.delmarvadd.com
Yearly & Seasonal Rentals
Employment Opportunities: Full Time, Year Round: Servers, Hostess/Host, Banquet Servers, Bartender, Banquet House Staff, Maintenance, Room Attendant, Rooms Division Manager, Housekeeping Supervisor
Top Wages Excellent Benefits Clarion Resort Fontainebleau Hotel Attn: Human Resources Dept. 10100 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842 Phone: 410-524-3535, ext. 7128 Fax: 410-723-9109 EOE M/F/D/V
Rooms Division Manager We are currently recruiting for a year round Rooms Division Manager for our Oceanfront convention hotel (250 rooms w/ 85 adjacent condominiums). The preferred candidate should have a minimum of 3 years hotel front desk management with working knowledge of housekeeping, inventory/ revenue experience, good verbal communications and telephone etiquette. Qualified candidates apply. Salary commensurate with experience. Excellent benefits package available. Apply in person, Mondays through Saturdays 10am – 4pm.
www.oceancitytoday.com Order YOur Classifieds Online!
Hiring Cooks (up to $18), Audio/Video Techs, Distillery Tour Guides, Food Runners, Hosts, Maintenance Staff, Head Distiller, Painter, & Carpenter. Apply in person or online at seacrets.com
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SEEKING RENTAL SEEKING RENTAL Retired Single Female seeking immediate yearround rental in Ocean City, Ocean Pines or Berlin area. 443-754-7054 Charitable foundation expanding and coming to Ocean City (See TheLearnersLabFoundation. org & TherapyConnection Institute.org). Corporate Rental Needed. Multiyear, minimum one year, with option to renew. NO HOA properties. Seeking 2BR, 2BA no more than $1250 monthly, including utilities or mobile home without utilities. OC/Berlin area preferred. No further out than the Bishopville-Ironshire region. Studio/1BR no more than $750-1k/monthly. No Salisbury rentals please. Call Jerri at 202-839-7750.
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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.
STORAGE STORAGE Storage West Ocean City. 2-car garage for rent w/attached work room. Total 775 sq. ft. Call John 410-726-0075.
PAGE 39
Ocean City Today
AUCTIONS The contents of mini storage units will be sold online at Lockerfox.com. Units to be auctioned: B5/ B27/ B50/ B52/ B85/ S35/ L9/ O27/ O38/ O55/ O29/ O115/ O164. Units are being sold due to non-payment of rent. Common items in units are, household items, furniture, tools, fishing equipment, paintings, antique and vintage items. Date: Friday, November 26, 2021 Time: 10:00 am This will be an online auction. Please go to Lockerfox.com and register. Feel free to call 410-2132029 for any questions regarding the online auction.
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PAGE 40 Rosenberg & Associates, LLC 4340 East West Highway, Suite 600 Bethesda, MD 20814 (301) 907-8000 www.rosenberg-assoc.com
SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES’ SALE
OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY 11311 GUM POINT RD. BERLIN, MD 21811 Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from Nolan R. Dove, Jr. dated October 4, 2016 and recorded in Liber 6863, folio 112 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Sub. Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on DECEMBER 3, 2021 AT 3:00 PM ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND, together with the buildings and improvements thereon situated in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. Tax ID #03-011445. The property, which is improved by a dwelling, will be sold in an "as is" condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranty of any kind. Terms of Sale: A deposit of $24,000 in the form of certified check, cashier's check or money order will be required of the purchaser at time and place of sale. Balance of the purchase price to be paid in cash within ten days of final ratification of sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County. Interest to be paid on the unpaid purchase money at the rate pursuant to the Deed of Trust Note from the date of sale to the date funds are received in the office of the Sub. Trustees. There will be no abatement of interest in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement or if settlement is delayed for any reason. The noteholder shall not be obligated to pay interest if it is the purchaser. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE FOR THE PURCHASER. Adjustment of all real property taxes, including agricultural taxes, if applicable, and any and all public and/or private charges or assessments, to the extent such amounts survive foreclosure sale, including water/sewer charges and ground rent, to be adjusted to date of sale and paid at execution of the deed, except where the secured party is the purchaser, and thereafter assumed by the purchaser. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale forward. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes and settlement expenses shall be borne by the purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. Purchaser assumes the risk of loss or damage to the property from the
Ocean City Today / Public Notices date of sale forward. Additional terms to be announced at the time of sale. If the Sub. Trustees are unable to convey good and marketable title, the purchaser's sole remedy in law and equity shall be limited to a refund of the deposit without interest. If the purchaser fails to go to settlement, the deposit shall be forfeited, to the Trustees for application against all expenses, attorney’s fees and the full commission on the sale price of the above-scheduled foreclosure sale. In the event of default, all expenses of this sale (including attorney’s fees and the full commission on the gross sale price of this sale) shall be charged against and paid out of the forfeited deposit. The Trustees may then re-advertise and resell the property at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser or may avail themselves of any legal or equitable remedies against the defaulting purchaser without reselling the property. In the event of a resale, the defaulting purchaser shall not be entitled to receive the surplus, if any, even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulting purchaser and the defaulting purchaser shall be liable to the Trustees and secured party for reasonable attorney’s fees and expenses incurred in connection with all litigation involving the Property or the proceeds of the resale. Trustees' file number 70768. Diane S. Rosenberg, Mark D. Meyer, et al., Substitute Trustees ALEX COOPER AUCTS, INC. 908 YORK RD., TOWSON, MD 21204 410-828-4838 www.alexcooper.com OCD-11/18/3t _________________________________ COHN, GOLDBERG & DEUTSCH, LLC ATTORNEYS AT LAW 600 BALTIMORE AVENUE SUITE 208 TOWSON, MARYLAND 21204
SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE
OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY 401 PACIFIC AVENUE NORTH OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from Joseph Flicop, and Evelyn S. Flicop, dated January 6, 2009 and recorded in Liber 5187, Folio 664 among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, with an original principal balance of $562,500.00, and an original interest rate of 2.620%, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Substitute Trustees will sell at public auction at the Courthouse door for the Circuit Court for Worcester County, on December 7, 2021 AT 3:20 PM ALL THAT FEE-SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND and the improvements thereon situated in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The property is improved by
a dwelling. Terms of Sale: The property will be sold “as is” and subject to conditions, restrictions, easements and agreements of record affecting same, if any and with no warranty of any kind. A deposit of $42,000.00 by certified funds only (no cash will be accepted) is required at the time of auction. Balance of the purchase price to be paid in cash within ten days of final ratification of sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County. At the Substitute Trustees’ discretion, the foreclosure purchaser, if a corporation or LLC, must produce evidence, prior to bidding, of the legal formation of such entity. The purchaser, other than the Holder of the Note, its assigns, or designees, shall pay interest on the unpaid purchase money at the note rate from the date of foreclosure auction to the date funds are received in the office of the Substitute Trustees. In the event settlement is delayed for any reason , there shall be no abatement of interest. All due and/or unpaid private utility, water and sewer facilities charges, or front foot benefit payments, are payable by the purchaser without adjustment. Real estate taxes and all other public charges, or assessments, ground rent, or condo/HOA assessments, not otherwise divested by ratification of the sale, to be adjusted as of the date of foreclosure auction, unless the purchaser is the foreclosing lender or its designee. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes and settlement expenses, and all other costs incident to settlement, shall be borne by the purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. Purchaser assumes the risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale forward. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE. If the purchaser shall fail to comply with the terms of the sale or fails to go to settlement within ten (10) days of ratification of the sale, the Substitute Trustees may, in addition to any other available remedies, declare the entire deposit forfeited and resell the property at the risk and cost of the defaulting purchaser, and the purchaser agrees to pay reasonable attorneys' fees for the Substitute Trustees, plus all costs incurred, if the Substitute Trustees have filed the appropriate motion with the Court to resell the property. Purchaser waives personal service of any paper filed in connection with such a motion on himself and/or any principal or corporate designee, and expressly agrees to accept service of any such paper by regular mail directed to the address provided by said bidder at the time of foreclosure auction. In such event, the defaulting purchaser shall be liable for the payment of any deficiency in the purchase price, all costs and expenses of resale, reasonable attorney's fees, and all other charges due and incidental and consequential damages, and any deficiency in the underlying secured debt. The purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds or profits resulting from any resale of the property. If the Substitute Trustees cannot convey insurable title, the purchaser's
NOVEMBER 19, 2021 sole remedy at law or in equity shall be the return of the deposit without interest. The sale is subject to postsale confirmation and audit of the status of the loan with the loan servicer including, but not limited to, determination of whether the borrower entered into any repayment agreement, reinstated or paid off the loan prior to the sale. In any such event, this sale shall be null and void, and the Purchaser's sole remedy, in law or equity, shall be the return of his deposit without interest. Edward S. Cohn, Stephen N. Goldberg, Richard E. Solomon, Richard J. Rogers, Randall J. Rolls, and David W. Simpson, Jr., Substitute Trustees Mid-Atlantic Auctioneers, LLC (410) 825-2900 www.mid-atlanticauctioneers.com CGD File #: 444844 OCD-11/18/3t _________________________________ McCabe, Weisberg & Conway, LLC 312 Marshall Avenue, Suite 800 Laurel, MD 20707 www.mwc-law.com
SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES’ SALE
OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY 9202 PEERLESS RD. BISHOPVILLE, MD 21813 Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from Edward T. Drew and Gracie Ann Drew, dated March 23, 2013 and recorded in Liber 6132, folio 399 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, default having occurred under the terms thereof and at the request of the parties secured thereby, the undersigned Substitute Trustees will offer for sale at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on NOVEMBER 29, 2021 AT 3:40 PM ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND AND THE IMPROVEMENTS THEREON situated in Worcester County, Maryland and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The property is improved by a dwelling. The property, will be sold in an "as is" condition and subject to conditions, restrictions, easements, encumbrances and agreements of record affecting the subject property, if any, and with no warranty of any kind. Terms of Sale: A deposit in the form of cashier's or certified check, or in such other form as the Substitute Trustees may determine, at their sole discretion, for $16,000 at the time of sale. If the noteholder and/or servicer is the successful bidder, the deposit requirement is waived. Balance of the purchase price is to be paid within fifteen (15) days of the final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland. Interest is to be paid on the unpaid purchase price at the rate of 5% per annum from date of sale to the date the funds are re-
NOVEMBER 19, 2021 ceived in the office of the Substitute Trustees, if the property is purchased by an entity other than the noteholder and/or servicer. If payment of the balance does not occur within fifteen days of ratification, the deposit will be forfeited and the property will be resold at the risk and cost of the defaulting purchaser. There will be no abatement of interest due from the purchaser in the event settlement is delayed for any reason. Taxes, ground rent, water rent, and all other public charges and assessments payable on an annual basis, including sanitary and/or metropolitan district charges, and front foot benefit charges, if applicable, to be adjusted for the current year to the date of sale, and assumed thereafter by the purchaser. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale. The purchaser shall be responsible for the payment of the ground rent escrow, if required. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes (including agricultural transfer taxes, if applicable), and all settlement charges shall be borne by the purchaser. If the Substitute Trustees are unable to convey good and marketable title, the purchaser’s sole remedy in law or equity shall be limited to the refund of the deposit to the purchaser. Upon refund of the deposit, the sale shall be void and of no effect, and the purchaser shall have no further claim against the Substitute Trustees. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. The purchaser at the foreclosure sale shall assume the risk of loss for the property immediately after the sale. (Matter #19-602106). Laura H. G. O'Sullivan, et al., Substitute Trustees ALEX COOPER AUCTS, INC. 908 YORK RD., TOWSON, MD 21204 410-828-4838 www.alexcooper.com OCD-11/11/3t _________________________________ Scott R. Robinson, Esq. Hofmeister & Breza 11019 McCormick Road, Suite 400 Hunt Valley, MD 21031 410-832-8822 STEPHANIE H. HURLEY, ET AL. Substitute Trustees Plaintiffs v. JEFFREY H. YOUNG Defendant IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY Case No. C-23-CV-19-000282
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given this 28th day of October, 2021 by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings and described as 2502 Worcester Hwy., Pocomoke City, MD 21851 will be ratified and confirmed, unless cause to the contrary be shown on or before the 29th day of November, 2021, next, provided a copy of this NOTICE be published at least once a week in eac of three successive weeks in some newpaper of general
PAGE 41
Ocean City Today / Public Notices
PUBLIC NOTICE The motor vehicles described below have been abandoned. The owners and lien holders are hereby informed of their right to reclaim the vehicles upon payment of all charges and costs resulting from the towing, preservation, and storage of the vehicles. The failure of the owners or lien holders to reclaim the vehicles within three weeks of notification shall be deemed a waiver by the owners or lien holders of all rights, title and interest and thereby consent to the sale of the vehicles at public auction beginning November 4, 2021 or to have it otherwise disposed of in a manner provided by law. Line No 80-21 579-21 1068-21 1071-21 1076-21 1107-21 1122-21
Year 2003 2012 2012 2003 2006 2006 2006
1123-21 2000 1127-21 1178-21 2001 1201-21 2011 1350-21 1996
Make FORD FORD HONDA HUMMER BMW BUICK HYUNDAI
Model MUSTANG FUSION ACCORD H2 525i LUCERNE SONATA
Color BLUE MAROON WHITE BLACK BLACK BLUE SILVER
VIN Mileage 1FAFP40403F361283 NA 3FAHP0HA2CR325822 NA 1HGCP2F76CA024702 NA 5GRGN23U53H103929 NA WBANE53506CK83662 NA 1G4HP57256U256747 NA 5NPEU46F26H129480 NA
WHITE ALUMINUM
Style COUPE SEDAN SEDAN SUV SEDAN SEDAN SEDAN STATION WAGON TRAILER
MERCURY LOADRITE HARLEY DAVIDSON MERCURY TOYOTA
SABLE JETSKI FXDL MILAN COROLLA
BLUE MAROON RED
MOTORCYCLE SEDAN SEDAN
1HD1GDV181Y337087 NA 3MEHM0HA0BR601205 NA 1NXBB02E9TZ463971 NA
1MEFM59S2YA610051 5A4YNSJ12720191904
NA NA
All vehicles will be sold at auction on-line at www.govdeals.com. For details call 410-723-6643. AUTH: Ross Buzzuro Chief of Police OCD-8/26/3t ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ circulation published in said County before the 22nd day of November, 2021, next. The report states the amount of sale to be $318,948.22 to Planet Home Lending, LLC. Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court for Worceter County True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-11/4/3t _________________________________ C. GREGORY COBURN ESQ 6806B COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 18840 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MATTIE H. LYNCH Notice is given that Vaughn Lynch, 500 Artic Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, was on November 01, 2021 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mattie H. Lynch who died on June 28, 2021, with a will. There was a prior small estate proceeding. 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 1st day of May, 2022. 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. Vaughn Lynch 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: November 04, 2021 OCD-11/4/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 18898 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF BONITA J. NELSON Notice is given that Robert McArthy, 4405 East West Highway, Suite 201, Bethesda, MD 20814, was on October 19, 2021 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Bonita J. Nelson who died on July 20, 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 (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 19th day of April, 2022. 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 no-
PAGE 42 tice, 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. Robert McArthy 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: November 04, 2021 OCD-11/4/3t _________________________________
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
Opioid Treatment Program (OTP) Expansion Worcester County Health Department The Worcester County Local Behavioral Health Authority (WCLBHA), an agency of the Worcester County Health Department, seeks an Opioid Treatment Program (OTP) provider for the purpose of hiring Peer Recovery Specialists in Worcester County, Maryland. The provider must be approved as a licensed and accredited behavioral health provider under COMAR 10.63 Community Based Behavioral Health Programs and Services, and licensed under COMAR 10.63.03.19 with an office in Worcester County, Maryland. This grant is to support staff salary for a peer support specialist, training costs to support certification through the Maryland Addiction and Behavioral Health Professionals Certification Board (MABPCB), equipment needs for the peer support specialist, and travel related expenses. This grant will assist with the expansion of Peer Recovery Specialists position within OTPs and simultaneously expand the Peer Recovery Specialist Workforce in Worcester County, Maryland. Grant funds are provided through the "COVID-19 Supplemental -Substance Abuse Block Grant awarded to the State of Maryland" by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The Worcester County Local Behavioral Health Authority requests participation through June 30, 2023. Proposals will be accepted by the Office of the County Commissioners until Monday, November 29, 2021 at 1:00 PM. One (1) original, and five (5) copies should be in a sealed envelope marked "OTP Peer Expansion" in the lower left comer of the envelope addressed and mailed or hand carried to: Office of the County Commissioners ATTN: Mr. Weston Young, Chief Administrative Officer Worcester County Government
Ocean City Today / Public Notices Center One West Market Street, Room 1103, Snow Hill, MD 21863 A pre-proposal conference will not be held for this solicitation. All contact regarding this Request for Proposals (RFP) should be directed to Karen Waggoner at 410-632-1100, Ext. 1146 or karen.waggonerl@maryland.gov Thank you for your interest. OCD-11/11/2t _________________________________
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Adolescent Clubhouse Worcester County Health Department
The Worcester County Local Behavioral Health Authority (WCLBHA), an agency of the Worcester County Health Department, is seeking proposals for the purpose of developing and operating an Adolescent Clubhouse in Worcester County, Maryland. It is desired for services to be incorporated in multiple locations and/or virtual services for youth who cannot access the physical location. Locations must be an easily accessible, clean and welcoming public space, that will serve adolescents ages 12 - 17 (or up to age 18 if youth is still in high school) at risk for and recovering from a substance use disorder. The Adolescent Clubhouse will allow adolescents to assemble with their peers, in a safe and supportive alcohol and substance free environment that promotes recovery. The Adolescent Clubhouse will honor and respect all diverse pathways to recovery and promote person-centered and peer-based services. The services offered should include, but not be limited to, vocational and educational training, self-care and social skills development, peer recovery support, age and developmentally appropriate recovery support groups, resource linkage, volunteer and service opportunities, recovery related workshops and family engagement events. The clubhouse shall employee a Young Adult Peer Recovery Support Specialist (YAPRSS) who will engage with youth at the Adolescent Clubhouse in an effort to improve hope and optimism, support symptom reduction, increase self-esteem, build overall health and wellness, reduce workplace stigma surrounding substance use and co-occurring mental and opioid use disorders, and to inform non-peer staff about recovery from a youth perspective. OCD-11/11/2t _________________________________ NOTICE TO HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTORS
INVITATION TO BID Housing Rehabilitation Worcester County, Maryland
The Worcester County Commissioners are currently accepting bids for rehabilitation work to be performed on a single-family home located in the Pocomoke City area of Worcester County. Bid specification
packages and bid forms are available to licensed Maryland Home Improvement Contractors. Packages may be picked up from the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center, One West Market Street - Room 1103, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863, obtained online at www.co.worcestcr.md.us under the "Bids" drop-down menu in the lower right hand side of the home page, or by calling the Commissioners' Office at 410-632-1194 to request a package by mail. The projects are proposed to be funded by the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program and are thus subject to all applicable Equal Opportunity and Civil Rights guidelines. Sealed bids will be accepted until 1:00 p.m. on Monday, November 22, 2021 in the Office of the County Commissioners at the above address at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. Envelopes shall be marked “Housing Rehabilitation Bid Pocomoke” November 22, 20212 in the lower left-hand corner. Bids will be reviewed by staff and awarded by the County Commissioners at a future meeting. In awarding the bids, the Commissioners reserve the right to reject any and all bids, waive formalities, informalities and technicalities therein, and to take whatever bids they determine to be in the best interest of the County considering lowest or best bid, quality of goods and work, time of delivery or completion, responsibility of bidders being considered, previous experience of bidders with County contracts, or any other factors they deem appropriate. All inquiries regarding the bid specifications shall be directed to the Housing Program Inspector, Dave Walter, at 410-603-4096. All other inquiries shall be directed to Davida T. Washington at 410-632-1200. OCD-11/11/2t _________________________________ NOTICE TO HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTORS
INVITATION TO BID Housing Rehabilitation Worcester County, Maryland
The Worcester County Commissioners are currently accepting bids for rehabilitation work to be performed on a single-family home located in the Stockton area of Worcester County. Bid specification packages and bid forms are available to licensed Maryland Home Improvement Contractors. Packages may be picked up from the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center, One West Market Street - Room 1103, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863, obtained online at www.co.worcestcr.md.us under the "Bids" drop-down menu in the lower right hand side of the home page, or by calling the Commissioners' Office at 410-632-1194 to request a package by mail. The projects are proposed to be funded by the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program and are thus subject to all applicable Equal Opportunity and Civil Rights
NOVEMBER 19, 2021 guidelines. Sealed bids will be accepted until 1:00 p.m. on Monday, November 22, 2021 in the Office of the County Commissioners at the above address at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. Envelopes shall be marked “Housing Rehabilitation Bid - Stockton - November 22, 2021” in the lower left-hand corner. Bids will be reviewed by staff and awarded by the County Commissioners at a future meeting. In awarding the bids, the Commissioners reserve the right to reject any and all bids, waive formalities, informalities and technicalities therein, and to take whatever bids they determine to be in the best interest of the County considering lowest or best bid, quality of goods and work, time of delivery or completion, responsibility of bidders being considered, previous experience of bidders with County contracts, or any other factors they deem appropriate. All inquiries regarding the bid specifications shall be directed to the Housing Program Inspector, Dave Walter, at 410-603-4096. All other inquiries shall be directed to Davida T. Washington at 410-632-1200. OCD-11/11/2t _________________________________ NOTICE TO LEAD LICENSED HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTORS
INVITATION TO BID Housing Rehabilitation Worcester County, Maryland
The Worcester County Commissioners are currently accepting bids for rehabilitation work to be performed on a single-family home located in the Snow Hill area of Worcester County. Bid specification packages and bid forms are available to licensed Maryland Home Improvement Contractors also possessing both MDE and RRP lead contractor certifications. Packages may be picked up from the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center, One West Market Street- Room 1103, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863, obtained online at www.co.worcester.md.us under the "Bids" drop down menu in the lower right-hand side of the home page, or by calling the Commissioners' Office at 410-632-1194 to request a package by mail. The projects are proposed to be funded by the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program and are thus subject to all applicable Equal Opportunity and Civil Rights guidelines. Sealed bids will be accepted until 1:00 p.m. on Monday, November 22, 2021 in the Office of the County Commissioners at the above address at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. Envelopes shall be marked “Housing Rehabilitation Bid - Snow Hill - November 22, 2021” in the lower left-hand corner. Bids will be reviewed by staff and awarded by the County Commissioners at a future meeting. In awarding the bids, the Commissioners reserve the right to reject any and all bids, waive formalities, informalities and technicalities therein, and to take whatever
NOVEMBER 19, 2021 bids they determine to be in the best interest of the County considering lowest or best bid, quality of goods and work. time of delivery or completion, responsibility of bidders being considered, previous experience of bidders with County contracts, or any other factors they deem appropriate. All inquiries regarding the bid specifications shall be directed to the Housing Program Inspector, Dave Walter, at 410-603-4096. All other inquiries shall be directed to Jennifer Keener, Director, at 410-632- 1200. OCD-11/11/2t _________________________________ MARIANNA BATIE ESQ LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 9748 STEPHEN DECATUR HIGHWAY, STE. 112 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 18974 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF DAVID WILLARD TOMLINSON Notice is given that David Stephen Tomlinson, 634 Cottage Park Lane, Leesburg, FL 34748, was on November 08, 2021 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of David Willard Tomlinson who died on October 18, 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 (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 8th day of May, 2022. 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. David Stephen Tomlinson 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
PAGE 43
Ocean City Today / Public Notices personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: November 11, 2021 OCD-11/11/3t _________________________________ IN THE ORPHANS’ COURT FOR (OR) BEFORE THE REGISTER OF WILLS FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND IN THE ESTATE OF: GRANVILLE WILLARD CROPPER ESTATE NO. 18699
NOTICE
OF JUDICIAL PROBATE To all Persons Interested in the above estate: You are hereby notified that a petition has been filed by Donald Littleton, 7124 Walston Switch Road, Parsonsburg, MD 21849 for judicial probate for the appointment of a personal representative. A hearing will be held at One W. Market Street, Court Room 4 Court House, Snow Hill, MD 21863 on 12/07/2021 at 10:00 a.m. This hearing may be transferred or postponed to a subsequent time. Further information may be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills. Terri Westcott Register of Wills One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Phone: (410) 632-1529 Newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Publication Date: 11/11/2021 OCD-11/11/2t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF PUBLIC HEARINGS BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS AND APPEALS TOWN OF OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 2 Administration, Article IV, Division 5 of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland hereinafter referred to as Code, same being the Board of Adjustments and Appeals Ordinance for Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearing will be conducted in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland. Wednesday, December 1, 2021 At 3:00 PM BAAV 21-124 To consider an appeal for relief from freeboard requirements in an X-shaded flood zone for a horizontal addition to a residential structure. The applicant is requesting a variance to the Town of Ocean City Code Chapter 38 Floods (Section 38-72) to modify the minimum elevation for residential construction (Sec. 38-71 (a) (4), reducing the required elevation by 0.7 feet, and allowing the proposed lowest floor to match the existing structure. The property is located east of Coastal Highway and north of 39th Street, and known locally as The
Breezes Condominium, 16 – 39th Street, Unit #105 parcel number 6423-5 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. APPLICANT: JOHN LEAGUE OCD-11/18/2t _________________________________
TOWN OF BERLIN
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
RFP # 2021 – 03 PAVING OF STREETS AND PATHWAY Due Date: Wednesday, December 15, 2021 Time: 10:00 AM EST The Town of Berlin is seeking Proposals for the Demolition as required and Paving of certain streets and a park pathway in the Town of Berlin. Qualified contractors are encouraged to visit the Town of Berlin website at berlinmd.gov/government/ request-for-proposals/ or contact Town Administrator Jeffrey Fleetwood at 410-641-4002/jfleetwood@ berlinmd.gov for the official RFP. EEO. OCD-11/18/1t _________________________________
TOWN OF BERLIN
PUBLIC NOTICE CASE NO. 9508 (p)
IN THE MATTER OF THE CONTINUING INVESTIGATION OF THE ELECTRIC FUEL RATE AND PURCHASED POWER COST ADJUSTMENT CHARGES OF THE MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC SYSTEM OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF BERLIN PUBLIC UTILITY LAW JUDGE’S NOTICE OF HEARING A Public Hearing in the above entitled matter will be conducted by the Maryland Public Service Commission virtually, on Tuesday, December 21, 2021, at 1:00 p.m. The hearing can be accessed via the Public Utility Law Judge’s YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/2X6wLiP OCD-11/18/1t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 18976 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF PATRICIA EILEEN PIERCE DYER AKA: PATRICIA EILEEN DYER Notice is given that Michael Dean Dyer Sr., 5277 Green Hill Circle,
Quantico, MD 21856, was on November 09, 2021 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Patricia Eileen Pierce Dyer who died on October 6, 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 9th day of May, 2022. 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. Michael Dean Dyer Sr. 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: November 18, 2021 OCD-11/18/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Request to alter and increase the licensed premises with 3,000 square feet of public sales area, a 3,000 square feet second floor inventory storage area and a third floor encompassing housing for employees. Class: "D" BEER-WINELIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Leighton W. Moore, Jr., 117 West 49th Street, Ocean City, Maryland 21842; Gary L. Figgs, 117 West 49th Street, Ocean City, Maryland 21842. For: O.C. Seacrets, Inc. For the premises known as and located at: TIA: Seacrets 117 West 49th Street Ocean City, Maryand 21842 There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: December 1, 2021
PAGE 44
Ocean City Today / Public Notices
@ 1:00 P.M. The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party. OCD-11/18/2t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Class: "A" BEERWINE License: 7 Day, By: Arthur B. Papoutsis, 10311 Thirty Knots Lane, Berlin, Maryland 21811. For: Spirit of 1832, LLC For the premises known as and located at: T/A: Assateague Market 7643 Stephen Decatur Highway Berlin, Maryland 21811 There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: December 1, 2021 @ 1:20 P.M. The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party. OCD-11/18/2t _________________________________
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: Jason Robert Bullock, 372 Schooner Lane, Berlin, Maryland 21811; Chad John Olenchick, 182 Ocean Parkway, Berlin, Maryland 21811; Cortney Bullock, 372 Schooner Lane, Berlin, Maryland 21811. For: Cabanas Beach Bar & Grille, LLC For the premises known as and located at: T/A: Cabanas Beach Bar & Grille 109 North Atlantic Avenue Ocean City, Maryland 21842 Formerly: Harrison Group There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: December 1, 2021
@ 1:30 P.M. The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party. OCD-11/18/2t _________________________________
December 1, 2021 @ 2:00 P.M. The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party. OCD-11/18/2t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Class: "A" BEERWINE License: 7 Day, By: Lynn E. Haines, 10949 Adkins Road, Berlin, Maryland 21811; Mustafa Nawaz, 16609 Peach Street, Bowie, Maryland 20716. For: Ocean Beer, LLC For the premises known as and located at: T/A: 7-11 11624 Ocean Gateway Ocean City, Maryand 21842 There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: December 1, 2021 @ 1:40 P.M. The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party. OCD-11/18/2t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Request to expand the licensed premises, by adding bar and service areas in the northeast corner on the ground level and a pizza kitchen, dining and bar areas on the third floor. Class: "B" BEER-WINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Jay Taustin, 2305 Philadelphia Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842. For: The Embers Restaurant, Inc. For the premises known as and located at: T/A: Embers Restaurant 2305 Philadelphia Avenue Ocean City, Maryland 21842 There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on:
OCEAN CITY TODAY
Legal Advertising Call Nancy MacCubbin 410-723-6397, Fax: 410-723-6511 or E-mail: legals@oceancitytoday.net
TOWN OF BERLIN
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS RFP # 2021 –04 Branch Street Well #3 Replacement Well
Due Date: Wednesday, December 15, 2021 Time: 10:30 AM EST The Town of Berlin is seeking Proposals for the furnishing and installation of a 125’ deep test well and a 12” diameter, 125’ deep production well, at the existing Branch Street Well #3 site. Qualified contractors are encouraged to visit the Town of Berlin website at berlinmd.gov/government/request-for-proposals/ or contact Town Administrator Jeffrey Fleetwood at 410-641-4002/jfleetwood@berlinmd.gov for the official RFP. EEO. OCD-11/18/1t _________________________________ SMALL ESTATE
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18968 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM D. STEVENSON AKA: WILLIAM DAVID STEVENSON Notice is given that Joan Scott Stevenson, 12619 Meadowood Drive, Silver Spring, MD 20904, was on November 08, 2021 appointed personal representative of the small estate of William D. Stevenson who died on September 13, 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
NOVEMBER 19, 2021 (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. Joan Scott Stevenson 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: November 18, 2021 OCD-11/18/1t _________________________________
TOWN OF OCEAN CITY
ORDINANCE 2021-22 RE: Purchase Real Property Notice is hereby given by the Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, that an ordinance was introduced for first reading at their meeting of November 15, 2021. Second reading is scheduled for December 6. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review in the Office of the City Clerk, City Hall 3rd Street and Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, or online at oceancitymd.gov in the November 15 agenda packet. This ordinance authorizes the acquisition of real property within FAA Part 77 Airspace, subject to obstruction removal and control, as directed by the FAA/MAA, directly north of Runway 02/20 being known as parcels 450A and B Stephen Decatur Highway, Ocean City, Maryland, 21842, and further described as third election district of Worcester County, Maryland described as all that lot or parcel of land lying and being situate in the tenth tax district of Worcester County, Maryland, described as parcels A and B as designated on the plat entitled “Resubdivision lands of Mystic Harbour Corporation”, made by Frank G. Lynch, Jr. & Associates, Inc., dated May 9, 1996, revised April 18, 1997, and recorded among the land records of Worcester County, Maryland in Plat Book RHO No. 151, Folio 2, Et. Seq.; and being all and the same property conveyed unto Lower Shore Land Trust, Inc., by deed dated December 23, 2019 and recorded among the land records, as aforesaid, in Liber SRB No. 7564, Folios 441, Et. Seq., for the sum of Eight Hundred and Fifty Thousand Dollars ($850,000.00). OCD-11/18/1t _________________________________
Commentary
Ocean City Today Nov. 19, 2021
Page 45
Marketing, sure, housing, that too Putting a real emphasis on tourism and marketing, as City Hall is about to do with its massive overhaul of this former departmental stepchild, make sense ... as far as it goes. The catch is that marketing is just one element of what Ocean City needs to reach the stated goal of becoming a yearround resort. Equally vital in this tourism-building equation is finding enough workers to staff the hotels, restaurants and other businesses that would have to remain open all year, assuming they would want to do that. As many businesses learned this past summer, American students aren’t as interested in seasonal employment here as they once were. There was a time, as some of the resort’s current leading citizens will recall, when getting a job at the beach was a rite of passage during their college years. Now, not so much, which makes Ocean City’s summer economy even more dependent on foreign workers. And that’s not going to work out if these potential employees have no reasonable accommodations at reasonable prices. Although some businesses did exceptionally well this past summer with reduced staffing, it was an exhausting exercise that many of them couldn’t — or wouldn’t want to — endure on a year-round basis. No one can fault property owners for raising their rents to whatever the market will bear, but the fact is it has left the immediate Ocean City area with an extreme shortage of affordable housing for young workers regardless of their point of origin. Further, suggesting that businesses suck it up and raise wages to reflect the soaring costs of housing overlooks their own financial limitations — keeping prices within the range customers will accept, while also dealing with the rapidly rising cost of supplies. This is something city officials must address with the same bold approach accorded the proposed tourism department expansion. Otherwise, as aggressive as their pursuit of yearround resort operations might be, that goal won’t be reached without people to do the work.
Ocean City Today 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 Phone: 410-723-6397 / Fax: 410-723-6511.
EDITOR ............................................ Stewart Dobson MANAGING EDITOR ................................ Lisa Capitelli STAFF WRITERS .................. Greg Ellison, Greg Wehner, ..........................................Jack Chavez, Mallory Panuska ACCOUNT MANAGERS.......... Mary Cooper, Vicki Shrier ..............................................................Amanda Shick 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. 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, 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
Avoid holiday stress
Something about our Thanksgiving tradition makes no sense, and I’m not talking about why Aunt Fanny insists on creating mutant casseroles that threaten our existence as a species. “Whoa!” you exclaim in horror as she places her most recent experiment on the table. “Did that thing just move on its own?” “Maaay-beeeeeeeee, hee-hee,” she replies. No, it’s not that, or even your Uncle Harvey’s obBy servation that last year’s Stewart creamed brussels sprouts “turned me into a “ballistic Dobson missile,’” adding, “I kid you not!” for emphasis. The situation is that we extol the virtues of the big fat American family dinner at the same time we read a thousand advice articles on how to get through it without planting a fork in Uncle Harvey’s forehead. “Shut up, Uncle Harvey!” Doink! That’s what puzzles me about Thanksgiving dinner. Apparently, it’s the most contradictory holiday on the calendar, considering that so many people say they can’t wait to attend, but, once there, can’t wait to leave. “Hey, boy,” Uncle Harvey says to his fully grown adult nephew. Did I just see you checking your watch?” “No, Uncle Harvey. I was looking for puncture wounds. I think Aunt Fanny’s casserole just bit me.” And then there are the brothers, sisters and cousins, whose original traits and tendencies have become more pronounced with
the passage of time. For instance, there’s Cousin Fern, whose tendency as a child to cover up her own misdeeds with lame excuses and a “how-could-you-possibly-think-that” eyeroll, now extends to her kids. “Uh ... Fern, your son Willie just whizzed in the aquarium!” “Oh, he sometimes gets confused.” Eyeroll. “He’s 14, for crying out loud.” The thing is, if Thanksgiving is such a great holiday, why is so much written about how to handle the stress of these annual family gatherings? Obviously, many people have to gird themselves for the mingling and dining with relatives they have enjoyed not seeing for the past year. So, they set boundaries, make pledges of silence about controversial subjects and remember what not to say to whom. It must be exhausting, which leads me to offer my own advice to those who wish to enjoy a stress-free Thanksgiving: stay home. Not only will you feel better, but it also will give everyone else at dinner something to talk about — you — thus sparing them those awkward boundary-observing silences. As for me, my Thanksgivings were always happy affairs with little drama, give or take the occasional death-ray stare from the family matriarch warning me that it’s not polite to fork people in the head. And my advice for how to deal with the Willies of the world? Take the little offender aside and offer a quiet admonition, so as not to make a scene: “I catch you doing that again, little man, and you’ll be bobbing for goldfish. Get me?” A few kind words can go a long way over the holidays.
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Ocean City Today
NOVEMBER 19, 2021
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Continued from Page 36
Margaritaville size raises concerns (The following letter was sent to the Ocean City Zoning Administrator and forward to Ocean City Today for publication). Editor, As an owner at the Sea Mist community, located directly across Baltimore Avenue from the proposed Margaritaville development, I am writing to you to express my concerns for this massive project. Yes, it is an upgrade, but the scale and magnitude of this project does not fit in with the size and location of the site they want to build it on. A project similar to the Beach Plaza Hotel and surrounding properties would be a welcome upgrade to the block between 13th and 14th Street on the Boardwalk. Our community is very concerned with the magnitude of this project and what negative impacts a project of this size will have on the surrounding communities and negative impact on this Boardwalk region of Ocean City. It simply doesn’t fit. I have many concerns: Nighttime light pollution. Day time shadow pollution. Noise pollution due to the increased size.
Concerns with lack of adequate parking within its footprint for the guests and workers. No plans for remote parking for the 80 +/- proposed number of workers per shift. Large increase in the number of patrons and workers from the previous use. Loss of the parking lot that was used for many daytime visitors and guests. Street parking being taken from the longtime residents and guests that frequent this part of Ocean City. Potential negative stormwater management impacts to an already stressed area. Ingress and more importantly egress of the guests and visitors onto Baltimore Avenue after events visiting the pro-
use of Sea Mist property as a cut through, and other unsavory uses which we already deal with. Margaritaville’s size and intent of use, negatively and dramatically changes this part of Ocean City. We understand there are other proposed developments that better fit the use of this site, please pick one of those proposals for the sake of Ocean City and the surrounding areas. If Margaritaville wants to be in Ocean City, they should find a site appropriate for the intended use, not downtown in the historic district of this great vacation town. Ross Rappaport Sea Mist Ocean City
Rezegh and joined the 4th Armoured Brigade in an attempt to take that position. In the meantime, not wanting to leave Gen. Balotta’s Ariete Armoured Division on their flank, the 1st South African Division, commanded by Major-Gen. Daniel Hermanus Pienaar, was ordered to dislodge the Italians. At 8:25 a.m., the next day, the 1st South African Infantry Brigade, commanded by the one-armed Brig. Gen. Eric P. Hartshorn, on the morning of Nov. 20, headed toward Bir el Gubi. Twenty minutes later, the Italian artillery opened fire on the South African armored cars, which were leading the attack. At 10 a.m., the South Africans ceased their assault. For the next two days, the South Africans and Italians skirmished. On Nov. 23, Gen. Balotta sent two-thirds of his division under the command of Gen. Ismaele Di Nisio, to attack the British from the rear, while Gen. Neumann-Silkow’s 15th Panzerdivision attacked them frontally at Sidi Rezegh. Sidi Rezegh is the site of the tomb of an Arab saint and his son, southwest of Tobruk. After Gen. Balotta’s Ariete Armored Division was withdrawn from Bir el Gubi, it was replaced by the Gruppo Speciale Giovani Fascisti (the Young Fascists) regiment, supported by two regiments of the elite Bersaglieri, commanded by Lt..Gen. Fernando Tanucci-Nannini. On Dec. 3, 1941, the 11th Indian Brigade, moved into position in preparation for another attack on Bir el Gubi. The brigade consisted of two battalions of Indian infantry, one of
Gurkhas, and one of Scots, together with a regiment of artillery, and was commanded by Andrew Anderson. It was reinforced by 16 Valentine infantry tanks. The Giovani Fascistis were, as the name implies, young — generally 18 to 22 years old. And, for the most part, they were ardent Fascists, all being volunteers. In a sense, the Gruppo Speciale Giovani Fascisti was the inspiration for the SS Hitlerjugend Panzerdivision. The soldiers of the Gruppo Speciale Giovani Fascisti were recruited from the Fascist youth organization, while those of the SS Hitlerjugend Panzerdivision were recruited from the Hitler Youth. Both were volunteer organizations, and both proved their value with their enthusiasm. On Dec. 7, 1941, the Giovani Fascistis and the Bersaglieri were relieved by the tanks of 15th and 21st Panzerdivisions. Accompanying the Panzers was Gen. Rommel who praised the young Italian soldiers and thanked them for their “Stand in the Sand.” No matter the bravery of the Ariete, Giovani Fascisti, and Bersaglieri at Bir el Gubi, the Siege of Tobruk was lifted and Gen.Rommel’s Panzergruppe Afrika driven out of eastern Libya (Cyrenaica). Next week: Rostov-On-Don 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.
WORLD WAR II Continued from Page 34 At 1:30 p.m., the British tanks charged again – this time overwhelming a battalion of the elite Bersaglieri infantry. The situation was stabilized by the Italian 75 millimeter guns and 47 millimeter anti-tank guns. By 3 p.m., the British had extricated themselves but ran into a group of truck-mounted 102 millimeter naval guns, equipped with armor-piercing shells. After an hour and a half, the British withdrew, and by 5:00 p.m., all was quiet. After the last repulse, Gen. ScottCockburn’s brigade moved to Sidi
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posed use of the project. 265 proposed rooms, at least 80+ more rooms than the largest of the current hotels in the area. Height of the building, this project will dwarf the other building within a few blocks of the site. Ocean City is known for being a family-oriented vacation spot. The Boardwalk has always been a big part of that family fun. In recent news, late night partying has become an issue in some areas of the Boardwalk. In consideration of the size and intended use of Margaritaville as a large party venue, I worry about how that will affect night time on the boards near Sea Mist and potential pedestrian
assateaguepointesales.com
NOVEMBER 19, 2021
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Ocean City Today
OBITUARIES BONNIE LEE HAMPE Ocean Pines Bonnie Lee Hampe, 74, of Ocean Pines, Maryland, peacefully passed away from heart failure on Monday, Nov. 8, 2021. Bonnie is survived by her husband, J. Michael Hampe (Mike); her daughter, Katherine (Kate) McCloskey and son-inlove, Dennis; her son, Jay Kappel, and Bonnie Hampe daughter-in-love, Debbie; her daughter, Elizabeth Hampe; her five grandchildren, Doria, Diane and Deyton McCloskey, and Josh and Emily Kappel; and her brother, Paul Bartholomee. Bonnie was born in Baltimore, Maryland, on Jan. 24, 1947, to Vera Zabel and Eugene T. Bartholomee. She grew up in Linstead and went to Severna Park High School and was on the Linstead swim & dive team. After devoting herself completely to raising her three children, she went back to work for 24 years at Broadneck High School (in Annapolis, Maryland) as their financial secretary/bookkeeper. She retired in 2007, then she and Mike sold their home in Cape St. Claire (Annapolis) and moved to Ocean Pines, Maryland, to be close to the beach they both love, and to their oldest daughter, Kate, and her family.
She was a very involved grandma, and the greatest cheerleader to her five grandchildren who all know how crazy in love she was with each of them. In retirement, Bonnie volunteered at Shirley Grace Pregnancy Center (Berlin, Maryland) counseling those dealing with an unplanned pregnancy to choose life for their baby. She touched so many and made a lasting difference. Bonnie loved people of all ages, but especially babies; she was quite the baby whisperer. She also loved serving her church (Coastal Community Church in Berlin) on the finance committee, welcome table, her grace group, and more; she was a ray of sunshine, vibrant and full of warmth and love to everyone. She loved with her whole heart and held nothing back; she always put others first. She left a powerful legacy of grace and love, which abundantly overflowed from her to the world, especially to those who needed a long warm hug, encouragement, or prayer. While her passing has left a huge hole in her family, community, church and our hearts, we are also comforted by her unwavering faith in Jesus, assured that forever more she is in the presence of her Lord and Savior. A Celebration of Life, open to the public, will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 4, 2021, at her church, Coastal Community Church, 10900 Ocean Gateway, Berlin Maryland.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made “in memory of Bonnie” to Coastal Community Church’s “Community Fund” to continue her legacy of caring for those who may need some loving assistance. Arrangements are in the care of Eastern Shore Cremation and Funeral Service, 504 Franklin Ave, Berlin, Maryland 21811. To send condolences to the family, please visit www.easternshorecremation.com. JAMES VINCENT CERNIGLIA Ocean City James Vincent Cerniglia, age 89, of Ocean City, Maryland, passed away Monday, Nov. 1, 2021. James was the loving husband of the late Catherine Cerniglia, the son of the late John Cerniglia Sr. and Rosalina (Cammarata) Cerniglia, and the youngest brother of James Cerniglia John Cerniglia Jr. and the late Samuel Cerniglia. James is survived by his children: Vincent Cerniglia Sr. and wife, Caroline, Kathleen Raby, Colleen Cerniglia and fiancé, Scott Hall, and Krystal Wharton and husband, Chris. James is also survived by his beloved grandchildren: Vincent Cerniglia Jr., Brendan Cerniglia and wife, Gianna, Connor Cerniglia,
Christopher Wharton, Oliver Wharton, Alexander Wharton and Elianna Wharton. James was preceded in death by his son, Paul Cerniglia. James loved preparing and gifting food to others, frequenting farm stands, feeding the chickadees, walking around his neighborhood, and going on long car rides. He was passionate about sharing his life experiences and expertise in history. He had the ability to poke fun at everyday life, even during his final days. He enjoyed the company of his family, friends and neighbors. Above everything, James adored his wife, Catherine, who he is now reunited with in peace. A memorial service was held in memory of James at St. Luke Catholic Church in Ocean City on Nov. 9, 2021. Condolences may be made via: www.burbagefuneralhome.com. JAMES C. WALTON III Berlin It is with deep sorrow we mourn the sudden passing of James C. Walton III (Jay), 71, of Berlin, on Nov. 7, 2021. Jay was born Aug. 6, 1950, and was the son of Margaret Custer Walton and James Coady Walton, Jr. He was a wonderful, devoted husband to the love of his life, Pat Walton. He graduated from Fishburne Military School and lived on the Eastern Continued on Page 48
ITEMS NEEDED AT THE NO KILL SHELTER OFFICE SUPPLIES FOOD Verus Chicken & Oats Dog Canned/Dry Food Verus Variety Cat Canned/Dry Food Friskies Variety Canned Cat Food Purina Cat Naturals Dry Food Royal Canin Baby Cat Dry Food Small Dog Treats/Cat Treats - Variety KMR Kitten Milk Replacement
TOYS Kongs for Dogs – All Sizes Scratch Pads/Posts for Cats Cat Toys - Variety Chuck-It Toys (large) Feather Wand Toys – Cats Cat Kicker Toys
VETERINARY CARE Latex Gloves (all sizes) Non-Latex Gloves (all sizes) Digital Thermometers Batteries (AAA, AA, 9V)
Copy Paper Black Pens Money/Rent Receipt Books (carbonless 2 part) Tape/Duct Tape Post-It Sticky Pads 952 HP Printer Ink
CLEANING SUPPLIES 0-Cedar Microfiber Twist Mop Cleaning Buckets Hand/Dish Soap Paper Towels Fabuloso (lavender scent) Brooms/Dust Pan Toilet Paper Liquid Laundry Detergent Hand Sanitizer Clorox/Lysol Wipes Contractor Size Trash Bags Kitchen Trash Bags Bleach
ITEMS NEEDED REGULARLY FOR WCHS
* When in doubt, it is better for our animals to spend your donation dollars on cleaning supplies rather than off brand animal foods*
PET CARE Cat/Dog Beds/Fleece Blankets Kitty Litter - Scoopable or Wood Pellets Puppy Training Pads Snuggle Safe Pet Heating Discs Nursing Bottles - Kitten Small Ceramic Water Bowls Disposable Food Bowls Dog Waste Bags
OTHER Gift Cards to WalMart, Tractor Supply, PetSmart, Petco, Concord Pets, Food Lion, Staples, etc.
PLEASE DROP OFF YOUR HOLIDAY DONATIONS: COLLECTION SITE: Coldwell Banker Realty, Attn: Nancy Reither 12207 Coastal Hwy Suite D Ocean City Md. 21842 Donations accepted until 12/14/2021
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Ocean City Today
NOVEMBER 19, 2021
OBITUARIES Continued from Page 47 Shore of Maryland his entire life. He was employed for over 20 years at Rommel’s Ace Hardware in Ocean City. Prior to Ace Hardware, Jay worked as a manager at MAB Paints & Coatings in Fenwick Island, Delaware. Those who knew Jay well would agree that while he was a quiet pillar of strength, he had a strong and fierce passion for his family and was a giving soul. He was always James Walton III available to lend an ear to those whom he cared about and had an infectious laugh. Jay was immensely proud of his two sons, Brian (Liz) and Jason (Beth) Walton, of the wonderful men and fathers they became. He will be especially missed by his three grandchildren, Kellen (11), Bella (11) and Carter Walton (7). Through his long marriage to Pat, he also became a stepfather to Candy Brantner, a loving grandfather to his two step-grandsons, Jeremy and Chris Brantner, and a great-grandfather to two beautiful girls, Memphis (7) and Rowen (6), who will miss him dearly. He is also survived by his mother-inlaw, Mabel Whisenhunt Stepp of Hampton, Tennesse, and brother-inlaw, Coy Whisenhunt (Kelley) of Valley Forge, Tennessee. His ultimate joy and greatest pride was taken in spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He loved the simple aspects of life and could often be seen grilling dinner for the family, setting off fireworks with his sons, on the Boardwalk with his grandkids, enjoying quiet dinners with his wife or simply watching his favorite TV shows like “Jeopardy” or “The Big Bang Theory.” Jay enjoyed fishing and the ocean, and loved watching the storms roll in at the beach. He was an avid football fan and enjoyed nothing more than teasing his daughter-in-law, Liz, for being a Philadelphia Eagles fan. A small private funeral will be held in Tennessee and Jay will be laid to rest
in Blevins Cemetery in Roan Mountain, Tennessee, off Tiger Creek Road, next to Pat’s father, Oscar J. Whisenhunt. A Celebration of Life gathering will be held locally on a later date. The family has appreciated all the love and support they have received during this time. In lieu of flowers, if you would like to assist the family with the unexpected funeral expenses feel free to send donations to: Rainbow Condominium, c/o Pat Walton, 11200 Coastal Highway, Unit 107, Ocean City, Maryland 21842 (please make checks payable to Pat Walton). DENNIS MICHAEL CONTIC SR. Berlin Dennis “Denny” Michael Contic Sr., 76, from Berlin, Maryland, went home to be with the Lord Tuesday, Nov. 9, 2021, at Coastal Hospice at the Lake in Salisbury, Maryland. Denny was born May 9, 1945, in Greensburg, to Anthony Contic Sr. and Florence M. “Flossy” Contic (Maxwell). He was steeped in his Italian heritage and D. Contic Sr. was proud of it through his entire life. Growing up, he was an accomplished athlete making “all-star” teams in baseball, football and basketball, especially as a high school varsity basketball player. He graduated from Greensburg Salem High School, where he contemplated being a history teacher. After completing some classes toward that goal at Point Park College, Denny served in the Army reserves for a few years. After the Army, he worked in various positions in local businesses. Eventually, he was called to his final career as a merchandise sales representative, which would be his passion for the rest of his life. So much so that in 1978, he started his own sales rep business, D&S Sales. It was the perfect, tailor-made job for this man who loved people. He excelled at turning complete strangers into personal friends. The parts of himself he gave to his friends paled in com-
The Ocean City Christian Ministers Association Invites Everyone To Our…
Community’s Thanksgiving Service Sunday, November 21st, 7:00pm First Presbyterian Church, 1301 Philadelphia Avenue Service will include…praise, worship songs, hymns, Thanksgiving testimonies and a brief message. Please bring packaged food goods, paper products, and funds for the offering, which will be used to help the needy in our community. There will be desserts & fellowship after the service. This is a great opportunity to give thanks to God. We hope you can attend. For information, call 410-289-9340
parison to what he gave to his family. He loved his wife, children and extended family to a fault. Denny belonged to the American Legion, the Knights of Columbus and the AMS Club of Greensburg. His hometown being on the outskirts of Pittsburgh, he was a fan of all Pittsburgh-area sports teams, especially the Pittsburgh Steelers. In fact, Denny started the first Pittsburgh Steelers Fan Club in Ocean City Maryland, in 2004, and remained the president until the late 2010’s. He loved playing golf, cards, reading, telling jokes and listening to music, especially live bands. He was basically partial to anything that involved interaction with other people. Denny is survived by his wife, Tina Marie Contic (Powley); his son, Dennis M. “Denny” Contic Jr. and wife, Shannan; and daughter, Stacey Stewart (Contic) and her husband, Kurt; as well as granddaughter, Abigail Contic, and grandson, Dennis M. Contic III. Denny is also survived by numerous nephews, nieces and friends he loved like family. In addition to his parents, Denny was preceded in death by his brother, Anthony Contic Jr.; sister, Florence Ann Frund (Contic); and brother, Barry Caruso, as well as a several nephews and nieces. In keeping with the wishes of our beloved Denny, there will be a memorial celebration of his love and life to be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 21, 2021, at “The Boulevard” Restaurant, 900 Towne Square Drive, Greensburg, Pennsylvania 15601. We hope that you come prepared to celebrate the three words most often associated with Denny: family, fun, and gathering. In lieu of flowers, please direct your generosity to the selfless, angels of mercy who assisted in the comfort and care of our beloved, husband, father and friend by sending your gifts in memory of Dennis Contic to Coastal Hospice. Checks may be made payable to “Coastal Hospice” and mailed to: P.O. Box, 1733, Salisbury, Maryland 21802. Or, visit their website at www.coastalhospice.org/donate. Arrangements are in the care of Eastern Shore Cremation and Funeral Service, 504 Franklin Ave, Berlin, Maryland 21811. To send condolences to the family, please visit www.easternshorecremation.com. MARTIN FERRIS Ocean Pines Martin “Pat” Ferris, age 96, of Ocean Pines, Maryland, passed away on Nov. 7, 2021, at Senator Bob Hooper House in Forest Hill, Maryland. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, he was the son of Martin and Caroline (Schilp) Ferris, and husband of the late Veronica Ferris. Martin Ferris He was a veteran of
the U.S. Army and worked as an attorney since the early 1950’s, working in Baltimore City for several years. He later worked as a senator’s aide before becoming a U.S. assistant attorney general for the State of Maryland. He then went on to work for the Environmental Protection Agency and for the Maryland Department of Labor Unemployment Division. Pat loved tennis and played until he was 90 1/2 years old with his buddies, and loved living on the water in Ocean Pines. He was an avid painter, enjoyed writing poetry, and cakes and pies - especially blueberry pies. He loved movies and musicals vowing that “The Godfather” was the best movie ever made. Martin is survived by his sons, Martin A. Ferris, IV (Tere), Timothy B. Ferris (Susan) and Daniel J. Ferris (Lori); daughters, Kathleen S. Maynard, Wendy A. Huber (John), Lynn A. Kim (James) and Kelly A. Marks (Steven); and many grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Nancy Thomas and Joan Ferris. Visitation was held under the caring guidance of the family-owned and operated McComas Funeral Home in Bel Air, Maryland on Monday, Nov. 15, 2021, followed by a memorial service at 3 p.m. Contributions may be made to the American Heart Association – Maryland, 217 E. Redwood Street, 23rd Floor, Baltimore, Maryland 21201; or the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Attn. Membership Dept., 6 Herndon Ave., Annapolis, Maryland 21403. Condolences may be left on the guestbook at mccomasfuneralhome.com. NORRIS E. SHANNAHAN, JR. Salisbury Norris E. “Ned” Shannahan, Jr., 37, passed away at his home in Salisbury, Maryland, on Monday, Nov. 8, 2021. He was born in Annapolis on Aug. 24, 1984. He is the son of Norris “Chirp” Shannahan and K. MaGale Shannahan. He grew up in Oxford on Boone Creek, where he enjoyed boating, crabbing and N. Shannahan Jr. fishing. He was a competitive ice hockey player from the age of 6 through high school and was very active in local ice hockey travel teams. Ned attended The Country School, The Gunston School and Easton High School. His chosen profession was carpentry where he excelled at house framing. He gained much of his experience while working locally for P.E. Moore and Sons. He loved the ocean and spent a lot of his free time in Ocean City where his mother and half-sister, Kelly, lived. Ned had great insight into peoples’ feelings
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Ocean City Today
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OBITUARIES and possessed an innate ability to make them feel comfortable. In addition to his father, Chirp, and his wife, Anne, Ned is survived by his two half-sisters, Kelly Carney of Ocean City and Jennifer Carney of Petersburg, Virginia; aunts and uncles, Mary Carol and Pete Gregory of Royal Oak, Eleanor Shannahan of Easton, John and Mimi Shannahan of Oxford, Mollie and Art MacAdams of Chester, and Patrick and Jennifer Shannahan of Davidsonville. Additionally, he will be missed by his many cousins. He was preceded in death by his mother, Magale Shannahan; his grandmother, Polly Shannahan; and his stepbrother, Robbie Cameron. In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Ned Shannahan, may be made to: Dove Pointe, P.O. Box 1610, Salisbury, Maryland 21802. A graveside service was held on Thursday, Nov. 18, 2021, at The Oxford Cemetery. IRENE B. PINO Ocean Pines Irene B. Pino, age 84, of Ocean Pines, died Thursday, Nov. 11, 2021 at home. Mrs. Pino was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and was the daughter of the late Maria Edwardo. She retired from the World Health Organization as a procureIrene Pino ment officer. Irene was a member of St. John Neumann Catholic Church and the Red Hat Society. She is survived by five sons, John A. Pino, Joseph L. Pino (Patty) and Charlie A. Pino all of Berlin, Robert A. Pino (Niki) of Centreville, Maryland, and William C. Pino (Jennifer) of Tyaskin, Maryland; six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Albino Pino. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 20, 2021, at Community Church at Ocean Pines, 11227 Racetrack Road, Berlin, Maryland 21811. Friends may call one hour before the service. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105. Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com. MARGARET M. MAZZILLI Ocean Pines Margaret M. Mazzilli, age 98, died on Sunday, Nov. 7, 2021, at Catered Living in Ocean Pines. Born in Massachusetts, she was the daughter of the late Carl and Gertrude (Donahue) Tyler. She was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond Mazzilli; and two sisters, Helen Tyler and Agnes Mitchell. Surviving are many nieces,
nephews and a host of friends. Mrs. Mazzilli had worked as a telephone service representative for Bell Telephone Company. She was a member of St. John Neumann Catholic Church, and avid gardener, and enjoyed painting in oils. One of her favorite subjects were sea gulls. M. Mazzilli A mass of Christian burial will be announced near the end of November. A donation in her memory may be made to: Little Sisters of Jesus and Mary, 411 Popular Hill Ave, Salisbury, Maryland 21801; or The Joseph House, 812 Boundary St., Salisbury, Maryland 21801. Letters of condolence may be sent via: www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of the Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin. FRANK FOX HOGATE Selbyville Frank Fox Hogate, age 85, of Selbyville, died Friday, Nov. 12, 2021, at Beebe Medical Center in Lewes. He was born in Alloway, New Jersey, and was the son of the late Charles Spayd Hogate and Laura (Zane) Hogate. He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Beverly I. Hogate of Selbyville; his children, Marie Hogate Thatcher of Arizona, Clyde Hogate of Sebastian,
Florida, and Ryan Hogate of Smyrna, Delaware; three sisters, Ethel Buehler of Salem, New Jersey, Louise Ecert of Pennsville, New Jersey, and Frances Masten of Dover, Delaware; his stepchildren, Kim Mazzella of Chicago, Illinois, Michelle Flanagan of Brookville, Maryland, Frank Hogate Noelle Dorment of Kensington, Maryland, and Christopher Isemann of Huntersville, North Carolina; 11 grandchildren, 12 step-grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a son and daughter, Frank Hogate Jr. and Margaret Schutte. Frank had many occupations throughout his career. Frank was a manager at JC Penney’s in New Jersey before moving to Dover, Delaware. In Dover, Frank was co-owner of Vane’s Florist and dabbled in real estate before becoming a correction’s officer with the Department of Corrections in Dover and Wilmington. Frank had a special love for Little League Baseball. He was a coach and umpire for many years at the Dover Little League Complex. He also loved to hunt, play golf, country dance and was an avid reader. Frank’s love of country dancing led him to meeting the love of his life, Beverly
Hogate. After retirement, Frank fell in love with the game of golf. You could find him on the golf course weekly, with Beverly or his friends from the Ocean City Elk’s Club, where he was an active member. He and Beverly enjoyed dancing at the Elks Club and their many golf trips up and down the East Coast with the MISGA organization. Frank was a happy and easy-going man. Whenever asked how he was, he would usually reply, “Great.” He truly loved his children and grandchildren. They held a special place in his heart. He never complained, even when his house was taken over by his grandchildren and many pets. He just embraced the chaos and enjoyed the sweets. Frank would like to be remembered as a quiet, but witty man who loved his family and friends. Due to covid restrictions and concerns, the family would like no gathering at this time. A walk-thru visitation will be held from 4-5:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 19, 2021, at Bishop-Hastings Funeral Home in Selbyville. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to: Ocean City Elks Lodge Scholarship Fund, 13708 Sinepuxent Ave., Ocean City, Maryland; or to the American Heart Association at www.heart.org. Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com.
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Ocean City Today Nov. 19, 2021
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Martinek honored with induction into Maryland NWHOF By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor (Nov. 19, 2021) Stephen Decatur Coach Todd Martinek was recognized for lifetime service to wrestling during the 2021 National Wrestling Hall of Fame Maryland Chapter induction ceremony last weekend in Chestertown. “It feels weird. I’m not used to talking about myself. I don’t like to talk about myself,” Martinek said. “I don’t win dual meets, my kids win dual meets. I looked at it like this, it was a lot of work for me but I thought it would be really cool for my mom and dad and my daughter to always say my son’s in the hall of fame or my dad’s in the hall of fame. I looked at it more like a thing for them. I tried to do my best in my speech and my memorabilia put out, I tried to do the best for them.” Martinek was nominated for the recognition, then he had to fill out an application and supply three letters of recommendation. “Todd is a man of high character that has made wrestling his life’s work,” Craig Reddish, Bel Air head wrestling coach, athletic director and 2014 National Wrestling Hall of Fame Maryland Chapter inductee, wrote in his reference letter. He has known Martinek for 40 years. “He has worked tirelessly to improve wrestling in the state of Maryland, especially on the Eastern Shore … His contributions to the sport in Maryland are second to none.” About 50 guests – family members, friends, colleagues, former teammates – attended the event to support Martinek. “I invited people that are important to me … All my high school teammates came, all my college teammates came. Almost everyone I invited went and that meant a lot to me,” Martinek said. “They were so proud. I thought it was cool to see some of my old buddies. My old high school coach was there and that meant a lot.” Each inductee had to have someone put on them the jacket they received. Martinek chose his Bel Air High School Coach, John Yantz. “I asked my high school coach since I was there for coaching,” Martinek said. “It was just a top-notch night. It was done very professionally and all my friends and family seemed like they had a good time.” Career highlights:
PHOTO COURTESY TODD MARTINEK FACEBOOK
Stephen Decatur Coach Todd Martinek, seated, second from left, was recognized for lifetime service to wrestling during the 2021 National Wrestling Hall of Fame Maryland Chapter induction ceremony last weekend in Chestertown.
* Martinek won the state championship at 103 pounds for Bel Air High School in 1989. * He competed for Salisbury State University at 118 pounds (1989-1992, 35-25 record). He was captain of the last team in 1992. (Salisbury dropped the Division III wrestling program due to Title IX financial problems). * Martinek was the head coach at James M. Bennett in Salisbury for eight seasons (1994-2002). During that time the team went 73-38. * Martinek started the prestigious annual War on the Shore tournament in 2002 with then-Decatur Head Coach Kevin Gilligan. * He was an assistant coach at Decatur for the next five years (20032008; 80-4 record, five Bayside Conference titles). * The next three years he was a wrestling official. * Martinek returned to Decatur for the 2011-12 season as head coach. * He has coached nine state individual champions (2020 three state champions), 46 state place winners, 19 100-match winners. * He was named Bayside Coach of the Year twice (1994, 2019). * Decatur coaching record - 169-32 (three Bayside titles head coach); overall record - 242-70. Unfortunately, Decatur wrestlers missed out on competition for the 2020-21 season because of covid.
The 2019-20 season was extremely successful, capped off with 11 boys and two girls qualifying for the state championship. Three Seahawks captured 2A/1A state titles in their weight classes. The squad went undefeated, 14-0, during the regular season, 26-0 overall with the Iron Horse dual tournament (8-0) and state dual meet tournament (4-0). It was the team’s first undefeated dual meet season. Decatur captured its second consecutive regional dual title and won its second straight state dual championship as well. In the past 50 years, Decatur sports teams have won six state championships. The wrestling team holds three of those titles. Decatur won the Bayside Conference championship for 10 consecutive seasons (2002-2011), then again in 2017, 2019 and 2020. The team broke numerous wrestling program records during the 2019-20 season – 10 wrestlers in the Bayside Conference championship meet finals, nine in the regional finals, seven regional champs, 11 state qualifiers, seven state place winners, five state finalists and three champions. The Decatur coaching staff and wrestlers are looking forward to the 2021-22 season, which kicked off the day after Martinek’s induction.
“It’s been kind of nice in the fact that we really have our work cut out for us this year. We have a lot of young guys,” he said. “We took a year off, so it’s like going back to your coaching roots now. “The last two years it was pretty easy because we had really advanced guys, so there was not a lot of coaching but you kind of just more manage them. Now, I’m going to have to coach and manage them,” he added. “My assistant coaches have really dedicated this year to try to send me out with one more state title, which would be cool, but we’ve got a lot of work to do.” Involved in the sport since he was 13, the now 50-year-old will wrap up his coach career at the end of this season. The Decatur history teacher plans to retire at the end of next school year, after 30 years in the classroom. “After we won states I said I was going to do one more year, but with covid we didn’t get that year last year,” he said. “I certainly would not have been as successful if it weren’t for Kevin [Gilligan] and the groundwork he laid here and me and him worked really hard together. He showed me the offseason sacrifices that he made … I knew I needed to do more as a head coach.” Martinek noted a few things why See TODD Page 51
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Todd Martinek recognized for lifetime service to wrestling Continued from Page 50 he’s been so successful over the years: community support, continuing to learn and surrounding himself with good people, he said. “I’m a student of the sport. This sport changes like every other sport does,” he said. “I’m trying to learn from the best and show the kids the best technique and also trying to use my experience has helped me in keeping them healthy, making weight, just making it a good environment for them to be successful. I feel like I’ve learned a lot about creating
environments that win and making them realize they can push themselves further then they ever could.” He also follows the advice from a former coach. “One of my first coaches said ‘surround yourself with good people’ and I have seven assistant coaches that are just great guys,” he said. “It’s nice being in this community, where everybody goes to Decatur … and people have a lot of pride in this school for generations and they like a winner, and we’ve been lucky enough to win lately and a lot lately.”
Stephen Decatur varsity wrestling team Coach Todd Martinek is joined by his wife, Sherri, and daughter, Alexis, during the 2021 National Wrestling Hall of Fame Maryland Chapter induction ceremony last weekend in Chestertown. Martinek was honored for his lifetime service to wresting. PHOTO COURTESY TODD MARTINEK FACEBOOK
PHOTO COURTESY VINCE RISSER/BAYSIDE SPORTS PHOTOGRAPHY
Stephen Decatur sophomore Gavin Solito holds tight onto the ball while being tackled by a Wicomico player during last Friday’s 2A East Region semifinals in Salisbury. Decatur won, 30-27.
Eastlack field goal pushes Decatur past Wi-Hi, 30-27 By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor (Nov. 19, 2021) The Stephen Decatur football team edged out the Wicomico Indians, 30-27, last Friday in Salisbury to advance to the 2A state quarterfinal round. “It was a great win. We had unbelievable resilience,” said Decatur Coach Jake Coleman. “It was win or go home and they rose together as a team. We have such a close-knit group of guys that really play for one another.” Playing in front of more than 3,000 spectators, the third-seeded Seahawks didn’t start off the way they wanted to, as Wicomico returned an interception for a touchdown on the first play of the game. The extra-point kick was blocked by Decatur. On Decatur’s next drive, senior quarterback Ashten Snelsire found sophomore Brycen Coleman for the score with eight minutes left in the first quarter. Sophomore Brogan Eastlack’s kick was good.
With two minutes remaining in the first quarter, Eastlack was successful on a 26-yard field goal attempt to put the Berlin squad on top, 10-6. The second-seeded Indians pulled ahead, 12-10, two minutes into the second quarter. With seven minutes to play before halftime, Snelsire threw a 40-yard pass to junior Luke Mergott for a touchdown. Eastlack made the extra point. At halftime, Decatur led, 17-12. Wicomico scored with just under eight minutes left in the third quarter, to gain a 20-17 advantage. With about a minute left in the third, Eastlack hit a 44-yard field goal to tie the game, 20-20. “It was a bomb. In practice I’ve seen him kick 55 yarders, so we knew he had it in him,” Coleman said. “He’s got incredible talent.” The Indians got back on top with 10 minutes remaining in the game, 27-20. See SD Page 52
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SD advances to quarterfinals Continued from Page 51 Sophomore Gavin Solito’s touchdown and Eastlack’s kick evened it back up, 27-all, with six minutes on the clock. Solito intercepted the ball with about four minutes left in the game and Decatur proceeded to work the ball down the field. With about 13 second left, Eastlack hit a 26-yard field goal to give Decatur a 30-27 lead, and the victory. “We have so much confidence in Jake Coleman Brogan,” Coleman said. “When we got down there we tried to drain the clock. It was all about positioning the ball where he likes to kick it. “I’ve known him since he was 10 years old and he’s built for these moments,” the coach continued. “I told him to go out and do the best he can, to keep his head down, kick the ball straight and as hard as he can. He went out there and buried it. It was a surreal moment. He made the kick and everyone celebrated.” Decatur avenged the 47-41 regular-season loss on Sept. 24 to Wicomico in Berlin. Snelsire was 23-for-46 passing for 306 yards. Solito caught eight passes for 90 yards. Mergott racked up 79 yards on three catches. Senior Zimere Handy recorded 96 yards rushing 17 times. “They handled being behind in the second half. We have so many clutch players. There were so many clutch performances,” Coach Coleman said. “The offensive line did a great job, we played perfect on special teams [and] defense was outstand-
ing – some big interceptions, huge fumble recovery, and limiting their big players was huge.” Senior Marqui Henry Jr. was tasked with guarding Wicomico’s all-state receiver, Jayce Freeman. “He went everywhere he went. He held him to zero catches. He shut him out,” Coleman said. Coleman said the team and coaching staff was appreciative of the fan support. “The Stephen Decatur community completely packed the stadium. It felt like a Decatur home game,” he said. “Our community took over.” The remaining eight 2A teams were seeded, with Decatur receiving the No. 8 spot. The Seahawks will battle the No. 1 Huntington Hurricanes, today, Friday, at 7 p.m. in Huntington. “It will be a tough game. Everyone is good from here on out, but this team can PHOTO COURTESY VINCE RISSER/BAYSIDE SPORTS PHOTOGRAPHY accomplish anything,” Coleman said. “Every week you’re fighting for an oppor- Stephen Decatur sophomore Brogan Eastlack was 3-for-3 on extra points and tunity to keep playing. We don’t want this was also successful on three field goals, the last kick being the one to give time to end. It’s an honor to play deep his team a 30-27 lead over Wicomico with 13 seconds left in last Friday’s game in Salisbury. into the season.” Tickets must be purchased in advanced and are only available online at: Coleman said. “We need to be able to stop the run, https://gofan.co/app/events/459226?schoolId=M we have to run the ball and we’ve got to be great on third down. We need to take care of the football PSSAA&fbclid=IwAR2Uj3Nv03BuX9PdTxHwx9s and limit penalties, and special teams have to be 4dzkBOzoG8wyz8LytYtJJr_I22A2o5OJUJY. “We need to support and fight for one another,” flawless.”
Dutton competes in state XC meet ‘I thought my time was pretty impressive because the course was pretty hilly’ By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor (Nov. 19, 2021) Stephen Decatur senior Tristan Dutton wrapped up his four-year cross country career competing in the MPSSAA 3A state championship meet last Saturday at Hereford High School in Parkton. Dutton crossed the finish line in 71st place overall out of 175 runners, with a time of 18:17.9. “I wanted to do better placement wise, but overall I did really well. I thought my time was pretty impressive because the course was pretty hilly,” he said. “Everyone I talked to, all the runners, were friendly, and the competition was really fast. It was just a cool experience overall.” Coach Brenda Hommel was pleased with his performance. “I was happy with how he raced, simply because I would rather him go out hard and really try to earn that top 25 [spot] and then not be able to rather than to go out at a comfortable pace …” she said. “A few things were working against him [but] he ran hard and that’s all you can ask for.” Dutton qualified for the state meet by placing sixth overall during the 3A South Region championship on Nov.
4, at Chesapeake High School in Pasadena. He crossed the finish line in 16:48.40, his fastest 5K time of the season, by 20 seconds. “I thought my whole season was excellent,” he said. “I broke a school record [18:20 for the Decatur 5K course], placed third in the Bayside [Conference Brenda Hommel meet], and got sixth in the region.” Dutton was pleased with his fouryear cross country career. “When I was a freshman, my 5K time was like 21 minutes, and now I’m running a 16:48 as my fastest 5K. I think I definitely improved,” he said. “Running for Decatur has just been awesome. My coaches have been great, especially Mrs. Hommel and Mr. [Jody] Stigler who’s now at Pocomoke. They’ve helped me a lot along the way.” Dutton is now participating in indoor track and will kick off his fourth outdoor track season in March. Hommel thought the cross country season went well overall. Prior to the start of the 2021-22 school year, she had worked with the cross country program for seven seasons and indoor and outdoor track for seven and six seasons, respectively. This year she took over the run-
ning programs from Stigler, who transferred to Pocomoke Middle School to become an extended day administrator, assistant principal. The Decatur boys’ cross country team finished in third and the girls’ squad placed fourth during the Bayside Conference championship. Both teams places seventh during the regional meet. “I was just thrilled with how both teams performed. We have such a young team, with only four veteran runners on both teams – four males four females – everyone else was brand new to cross county,” Hommel said. “The fact that our boys’ team competed as well as they did and placed as well as they did – I think they always came in top three … that was great especially with as many young boys and we had. “Our girls’ team winning every conference meet was just remarkable, given we had so many injuries from our veteran runners,” she continued. “We really relied on our brand new runners. I was just so impressed with how well they did.” The program will only graduate four runners, so Hommel thinks the teams will be strong next year with a core group slated to return. “I think next year will be a really good year for us. I’m very exciting with the core group returning,” she said. “Freshman runner Amber Mar-
LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Stephen Decatur senior Tristan Dutton wrapped up his four-year cross country career competing in the MPSSAA 3A state championship meet last Saturday at Hereford High School in Parkton.
shall by the end of the season she is ranked the No. 2 freshman of all time for Decatur (5K time 21:23). She outperformed all freshmen in history from Decatur other than one – Lindsay Chetelat (2005, 20:01).” Hommel said Marshall is a rising star and she will look to her to lead the group next season. See COACH Page 54
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Coach Hommel pleased with More than 200 golfers take cross country season overall part in annual tournament Continued from Page 52 “We made a runner out go her … I don’t think she still realizes what her potential is,” Hommel said. “We definitely have some growth here and so she’s going to be a strong leader and we’re excited to see what she does over the next four years.” Marshall enjoyed her first competitive running season. “It was exciting. I didn’t know I could run this fast,” she said. Marshall is also competing in indoor track this winter and plans to participate in outdoor track in the spring. Hommel enjoyed her first season as head coach and is looking forward to the indoor and outdoor track seasons. “Running is definitely my passion. I get up at 4:30 every morning and run with my dog. It’s something I have found in my own experience running has helped my stay somewhat balanced, giving me some time to focus on myself and keep my stress levels low,” she said. “Right now, mental health issues in school I think just offering students an opportunity to run – the esteem-building experience and just showing kids that if you align your choices with your goals you can pretty much achieve almost
anything you want to achieve.” With running, progress is measured by an increase or decrease in time. While athletes are running as individuals, cross country is also a team sport. “They learned running cross country is a team sport. They relied on each other and [saw how] every single point counted,” she said. “And a lot of times, kids that come out for cross country are not super athletic and we make them. It’s just such a great experience for the kids, and they’re probably the nicest group of athletes. “One thing I always tell the kids, even if you choose not to do indoor or outdoor track, even if you choose not to ever do the [cross country] team again, just look at what you accomplished, you chose to run and you all did it,” she added. “They were all able to grow and improve their times. One thing about running, it’s alway there for them. They don’t have to be on a team to run. They can just go out and run and enjoy it. Hopefully we gave them that outlet and just another door opened in terms of experience they can rely on, whether it be for mental health, physical health, or social, running fits a need for a lot of kids.”
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(Nov. 19, 2021) The Atlantic General Hospital Foundation held its 2021 Robert E. Warfield Memorial Fall Golf Classic on Sept. 23 at the Ocean City Golf Club. Despite scattered rainstorms, this year’s tournament was attended by 208 golfers on 52 teams. On Oct. 13, Atlantic General leadership and staff, Fall Golf Classic committee members and Michael James from the Carousel Group, a 22-consecutive-year Legacy Sponsor of the tournament, all came together to commemorate the success of the event. With the help of the many sponsors, golfers and volunteers, the event raised $112,500 for the Atlantic General Hospital Foundation. Proceeds from the tournament enable Atlantic General Hospital, a notfor-profit healthcare organization, to advance the health of the residents and visitors of the community through a coordinated care delivery system that provides access to quality care, personalized service and education.
Winning Teams: • Lou and Buzz Taylor, and Dan and Penny Parker. • USI Insurance Services - Jim Brannon, Steve Niewinski, Mark Scott and Bryan Shepherd. • i.g. Burton - Charlie Burton, Bob Earle, Mike Larking and Danny Michaels. Golden Ball Challenge: Atlantic Orthopaedics - Tom Beck, Munna Garg, Dan Pascucci and Phil Spinuzza. Women’s Longest Drive: Penny Parker and Poppy Granite Men’s Longest Drive: Lou Taylor and Brendan Murphy Men’s Closest to the Pin: Taylor Ballard and Richard Silberstein Putting Contest: Matt Zaleski, Doug Taylor and Brandon Mallon Floating Green Contest: Bob Yocubik, Bryan Shepherd, Tom Bradshaw, Les Dennis, Dan Pascucci, Joe Sise and Rick Holland.
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