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Jacobs Argues For Larger Hike in Marina Slip Fees Ocean Pines Association staff are proposing a 3 percent increase in marina slip rental fees as part of the Board of Directors’ review of the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget, but Director Steve Jacobs suggested the increase may be too modest given demand for slips and pricing at comparable marinas. ~ Page 3

OPA Seeks County Approval For New Cell Phone Tower The Worcester County Board of Zoning Appeals is expected to discuss the proposed cell tower construction in Ocean Pines this week. A special exception, requiring BZA approval, is needed for the cell tower’s construction under the existing Zoning and Subdivision codes. ~ Page 7

Treatment Plant Problems May Cost Pines Ratepayers Ocean Pines ratepayers may soon be required to pay the state’s Bay Restoration Fee after higher-than-normal nutrient loads at the community’s wastewater treatment plant last winter pushed levels above the threshold that allows the service area to remain exempt. ~ Page 12

January 2026

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Pines Board Considers $40 Assessment Increase in Proposed FY26-2027 Budget By ROTA L. KNOTT Publisher/Editor Ocean Pines homeowners could see a $40 increase in their annual assessment next year to help cover the cost of a new southside fire station and higher water and wastewater charges from Worcester County, while amenity rates would rise only modestly under a proposed fiscal year 2027 budget presented to the Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors on Dec. 19. General Manager John Viola told the Board the proposed FY2027 budget is the result of a “bottoms up” process involving review, analysis and clearly defined objectives carried out by department heads across the organization. The approach focused on pricing, expense reviews and identifying opportunities for organic revenue growth, while prioritizing service quality. “But most importantly to

enhance the customer experience” for all homeowners of Ocean Pines, Viola said during the review. He added that staff understand “the importance of the assessment and everything we do and it’s part of our norms is to bring forward the most efficient effective assessment for Ocean Pines.” Senior Director of Finance and Controller Steve Phillips said the assessment increase is directly tied to infrastructure and utility costs. “So we have a $40 increase in the assessment,” he said, citing water and wastewater rate increases and the expense of building the new fire station. Viola noted the current fiscal year assessment is $875. “There’s a $40 increase proposed in this proposed budget,” he said. He explained that $25 of the increase is earmarked for the fire department to pay for construction of

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the new southside fire station. “Not pointing and not saying anything was wrong, but we did not have that funded over the years,” Viola said, adding, “$25 this year is certainly, I believe, a reasonable number.” The remaining $15 of the assessment increase stems from higher water and wastewater fees imposed by Worcester County, which Viola said have affected Ocean Pines significantly in recent weeks. He noted residents have also seen the increases reflected on their own bills. Some of those higher water costs will be absorbed through aquatics fee increases, while Touch of Italy, the association’s food and beverage vendor, is also covering its share of the added expense, Viola said. The proposed budget also includes salary increases averaging about 3.25 percent for staff and the management team, as well as coverTo Page 3

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age for medical liability insurance. Viola said the association has relied on outside studies to benchmark compensation. “I truly believe we need to take care of them. We need to make sure just like anything else that we benchmark and that their salaries are within the ranges of everybody around us,” he said, referencing staff skill sets, benefits and overall responsibilities. In addition to the general assessment, Viola said the budget proposes a $25 increase in the waterfront differential assessment for properties located along Ocean Pines waterways. The additional revenue would help pay for improvements such as bulkhead replacement and repairs in areas where the association is responsible. Director Jeff Heavner praised the clarity and organization of the budget presentation, calling it “very easy to read.” He highlighted that the document lays out amenity fees, CPI-related changes, assessment history and boat slip information in one place. He also pointed to what he described as a significant increase in safety-related spending and the challenge of balancing rising costs such as insurance, firehouse expenses, water, salaries and benefits. Heavner said the result is “a really balanced budget,” noting “a modest increase in the assessment and quite frankly modest increases in our amenity fees like racquet sports $5, aquatics $10 to $30, golf $100 bucks, golf carts nothing, food and beverage, red to black.” Viola responded that the budget has absorbed substantial cost pressures in recent years. “We’ve probably covered over $100 worth of increases if not $150 within the budget, baked in as you’ve said,” he said, referring to the last couple of years. Public Works Director Eddie Wells said the association is proposing a 3 percent increase in marina slip rental fees. “We are proposing a slip increase,” Wells said, adding that the adjustment “still keeps us under anybody that’s in the area.” He said staff regularly check regional pricing and remain competitive. “We’ve been checking on all the prices just to make sure we’re competitive, and we still are well competitive,” he said. With a long waiting list for slips, Wells added, “If

January 2026 Ocean Pines PROGRESS 3

Staff Proposes 3% Marina Slip Fee Increase Jacobs argues higher slip rates could boost revenue By ROTA L. KNOTT Publisher/Editor cean Pines Association staff are proposing a 3 percent increase in marina slip rental fees as part of the Board of Directors’ review of the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget, but Director Steve Jacobs suggested the increase may be too modest given demand for slips and pricing at comparable marinas. Public Works Director Eddie Wells told the Board that staff are recommending a 3 percent increase in slip rates, an adjustment he said would still keep Ocean Pines below competing marinas in the region. He said staff routinely review area pricing to ensure competitiveness and noted the marina continues to see strong demand. “We have a long waiting list of people looking for slips.” He said the OPA will not have a challenge trying to fill any boat slips that become available if renters are not happy with the price increase. Director Steve Jacobs argued that the proposed increase does not go

somebody pulls out because they don’t like the 3 percent rental fee increase, I don’t think we’re going to have a problem filling them.” Phillips outlined several amenity fee adjustments included in the proposed budget. Aquatics memberships for residents and associates would rise by about 5 percent across the board, driven in part by the county’s water and sewer rate hikes that had to be absorbed in the budget. Racquet sports memberships would increase by $5, which he described as minimal. Beach parking annual passes would increase by $5 for the two annual passes, while weekly, daily and associate rates would remain unchanged. In golf, Phillips said membership rates would see modest increases ranging from $100 to $175. Based on benchmarking, he said, “we still end up being one of the lowest cost per rounds in the area.” Public greens fees would increase by $10, while resident rounds would rise by $5. The proposed FY2027 budget will continue to be reviewed by the Board of Directors as part of the association’s budget process.

far enough and urged consideration of a more aggressive adjustment. He pointed to previous increases and the limited revenue expected from the current proposal, noting that while Yacht Club slip rental revenue increased by $30,000 between the 2025 and 2026 budgets, the projected increase from 2026 to 2027 is less than $8,000. “We are priced below most of the other marinas or all of the other marinas if comparable in the area and we could charge more to generate more revenue,” Jacobs said. He added, “it just seems to me that there is a greater revenue potential if we’re more aggressive about this. I’m not saying we have to overprice to reach our competitors, but if we get closer to them, we should be able to generate more revenue.” General Manager John Viola told the Board that staff would follow its direction if members wanted to revisit the proposal. He said the association’s overall philosophy is to balance affordability with financial sustainability. “The approach is we

want to give the best amenity at a fair price,” Viola said. He explained that the goal is to cover expenses and depreciation while remaining slightly below competitors, though he acknowledged there may be room to adjust pricing. “We do have more pricing power there,” he said. Director Jeff Heavner pushed back against the idea of a larger increase, saying the proposed adjustment aligns with the association’s broader budget strategy this year. He noted that for most vessels under 26 feet, the increase would amount to about $75. “I think that fits in line with our modest increases this year. And we shouldn’t be having big spikes in the way we price things,” Heavner said, adding that he favored gradual adjustments rather than sharper hikes. Jacobs reiterated his position later in the discussion, emphasizing demand and pricing flexibility. “I’m not saying we got to gore anybody’s ox here, but at a minimum, it would To Page 5

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Minimal Membership Fee Increase Proposed as Pines Seeks Racquet Sports Revenue Rebound By ROTA L. KNOTT Publisher/Editor minimal $5 increase in racquet sports memberships is proposed under the Ocean Pines Association’s fiscal year 2027 budget as officials look to boost participation and revenue following what staff described as a slower-than-expected year for the amenity. The Board of Directors reviewed the racquet sports budget during its Dec. 19 meeting as part of a broader discussion of the staff-proposed FY2027 operating budget. Steve Phillips, senior director of finance and controller, said pricing changes were intentionally modest. “We had minimal pricing increase on the racket sports. We went up $5 on the memberships,” Phillips said, adding that daily rates will remain unchanged. Phillips said the budget takes a rebound approach, projecting increased usage and higher check-ins next year. Total racquet sports revenue is projected at $218,788, compared with an estimated $197,276 this year, reflecting a hoped-for increase of about $20,000. He also pointed to payroll efficiencies, not-

Marina Slip Fees From Page 3

seem to me we should be increasing the rate someplace closer to 6 percent than the 3.3 percent we’re doing,” he said. He added that a higher increase should not negatively affect renters and asked how the Board might effectuate a change. OPA President John Latham said the Board could consider that approach and indicated the issue remained open. Director Stuart Lakernick said he was comfortable with the staff proposed increase, noting that many slip renters are Ocean Pines residents. “We’re covering our expenses. We’re making a modest income and all the slips are rented out,” Lakernick said. He cautioned against pushing rates too high, saying he had “no appetite to increase it any more than what is in this proposal.” Jacobs countered that demand remains strong regardless. “The fact of the matter is we have a wait list and we are underpriced compared to

ing that last year’s budget included $180,000 for payroll while the current estimate came in at $125,000. Phillips said the finance team worked to streamline business processes and manage part-time hours to create efficiencies. As a result, the projected bottom line shows improvement, even though the operation is still expected to run at a loss. “From a bottom line standpoint, still not where we want to be,” he said. Noting the OPA is forecasting a $26,795 loss, but that is improved versus the estimate about $84,545 loss for the current year. General Manager John Viola said the current year reflected a decline in memberships despite significant investments in the racquet sports complex. He said the association added a professional, upgraded facilities and responded to member feedback. “We were hoping to see increases in the membership,” Viola said. Viola said feedback suggested some potential users were more focused on lower membership prices, which conflicted with the level of investment made in the facility. He said price increases were implemented with agreement from staff every other marina,” he said, adding that the association has the ability to generate additional revenue without significantly burdening slip holders. Director Monica Rakowski also said she did not support a higher increase, stating she was not in favor of raising slip fees beyond what staff proposed. At the conclusion of the discussion, Viola asked whether the Board wanted staff to analyze higher increases. Latham responded that the Board would revisit the issue. During the meeting, Viola also spoke more broadly about operational decisions affecting the marina, saying staff are focused on making what he described as “bold” choices when appropriate, including changes to how fuel is purchased. Lakernick praised those efforts, saying marina fuel prices are highly competitive. “I got tell you the prices for gas at the marina are the best on the water,” he said, adding that he believed the association should do more to promote that advantage.

leadership and that he would like to see another year of data before making further changes. “I would like to just see another year to see what happens with all the investment we’ve done there and the product we have and hope to see and get more information on what’s going down there before we do more pricing,” he said. Viola emphasized that Ocean Pines racquet sports pricing remains below comparable facilities, despite growing competition from newly built pickleball courts in surrounding areas. He noted that the Ocean Pines facility offers multiple racquet sports in a single complex with dedicated amenities. He compared the situation to golf, where memberships initially declined after upgrades but later rebounded as players recognized the value. He said staff remain open to future pricing adjustments but stressed, “We are below any type of facility just like ours.” Director Jeff Heavner expressed

support for the cautious pricing strategy, praising the quality of the facility and staff’s approach. “We do have a first class facility down at the Racquet Center,” Heavner said. “I really appreciate what your intuition on having a way less than moderate increase down here to see how it goes this year.” Director Steve Jacobs said he agreed with the financial analysis but raised questions about understanding why memberships declined. “I don’t have any problem with your analysis,” Jacobs said. He asked whether the association could gather better data on whether former members were choosing other locations or simply reducing their usage, and whether pricing played a role in the loss of tournaments. Jacobs also asked whether staff were being aggressive in attracting tournaments, similar to golf packages, to increase exposure and usage of the facility. Viola said staff are working to To Page 7

6 Ocean Pines PROGRESS January 2026

OCEAN PINES

New Director of Golf Matt Ruggiere Focuses on Maintaining Quality on the Course By DAVID BOHENICK Contributing Writer att Ruggiere, the Ocean Pines Association’s new director of golf for the Ocean Pines Golf Club, says his priority is the golf club’s members. Ruggiere was born and raised in Ocean Pines and spent his childhood participating in the community’s

golf programs. Ruggiere worked in Florida as an assistant golf professional at LPGA International after graduating from Stephen Decatur High School in 2014. He also participated in several professional golf tours while there, including the West Coast Professional Tour and the Florida Professional Tour. Ruggiere also served as an

assistant golf professional at Indian Peaks Golf Course after moving to Colorado in 2021. He moved back to Ocean Pines in 2023 after talks with OPA General Manager John Viola about launching his own golf academy, which is now active as Ruggiere Golf Academy. Ruggiere said his new position as

the director of golf wouldn’t affect the lessons he offers. “We’ll still have the academy going. We’ve already built out the summer camps and afterschool programs for this year,” Ruggiere said. “For the long-term, I’m hoping to bring in another coach but the academy will still be available.” Ruggiere said his priority in this position was to take care of the golf club’s current members, while keeping it a family-friendly place for everyone interested in playing golf. He already has an idea to introduce a new tournament later this year. “We want to do adult-junior tournaments,” Ruggiere said. “It’d be a two-player team scramble format where younger players can play with someone more experienced, so juniors won’t have the stress of playing the ball alone.” Ruggiere said there are currently plans to have one adult-junior tournament in the spring, summer and fall. As for maintenance, Ruggiere said there’s work on a bulkhead on hole 18 but this was decided before his hiring. Ruggiere said there are currently no plans for other maintenance and additions for the course, and praised its design. “This is a Robert Trent Jones course and he’s one of the best designers of all time,” he said. Ruggiere also praised Course Superintendent Justin Hartshorne’s work and said he was happy to be on the same page and able to work with him. Ruggiere is excited about his future and wouldn’t ask to be anywhere else. “I’m happy to be in this position,” he said. “I’m very passionate about the golf course and I’m excited to help, whether it’s on or off the course.”

OCEAN PINES

January 2026 Ocean Pines PROGRESS 7

Proposed Pines Cell Tower on County BZA Agenda By DAVID BOHENICK Contributing Writer n Jan 8, the Worcester County Board of Zoning Appeals is expected to discuss the proposed cell tower in Ocean Pines. A special exception is required for the cell tower’s construction under the existing Zoning and Subdivision codes. Under ZS 1-206, the cell tower qualifies for special exception in the suburban residential district of Ocean Pines, as it is a monopole with a height between 100 and 199 feet. “It is a standard process for review with a public hearing including advertisements, posting of the property and letters to adjoining property owners,” Senior Director of Administration Linda Martin wrote in an email to The Progress. “If approved by the BZA, it will be subject to site plan review and subsequent building permits. If all approvals are obtained, construction would likely start sometime in the spring,” she said. The Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors unanimously approved the motion to authorize the signing of the site lease agreement at the Oct. 25, 2025, OPA Board meeting. At the time Milestone Towers, the wireless tower development company based in Virginia that is working on the development of the monopole, claimed they were waiting on this approval before planning “day one” of construction. OPA officials and residents have discussed the possibility of a cell tower since late 2024, when concerns were raised in regards to the cell reception in the area. An official at Milestone Towers approached the OPA to work on the tower’s development in the spring of 2025, with the two having ongoing negotiations throughout the year. Now that the Board has authorized the site lease agreement, Milestone Towers are responsible for all permits and approvals moving forward, including the upcoming BZA hearing. The tower is currently planned to be erected at 98 Clubhouse Drive, west of the Ocean Pines golf course maintenance building, and will include required ground equipment in a fenced area at the base of the facility. At the time of the October 2025 meeting, Milestone Towers expected the construction of the tower to be completed around November of this year. Police Chief Tim Robinson also confirmed plans for the cell tower to be camouflaged. “Of course everyone’s going to know it’s not a real tree but it’s going to blend in and try to keep a little bit of beauty that we’ve come to know at Ocean Pines,” Robinson said in the October OPA meeting when discussing the tower’s proposal. Robinson also advised the Board during the October 2025 OPA meeting that all three major carriers, Verizon, T-Mobile and AT&T, plan on providing reception. As a result, the Ocean Pines Association would receive approximately $35,000 in rent every year. While the official height of the tower wasn’t confirmed in previous public discussions, it is listed as a 150-foot structure in the Jan. 8 BZA agenda.

Racquet Sports From Page 5

attract more tournaments and that leadership believes tournaments help showcase the facility beyond immediate revenue. He acknowledged that at least one tournament was lost. He said staff believe additional tournaments can be secured. “It’s not just about, you know, what you make or don’t make on that day. It’s showcasing your facility,” Viola said. Jacobs said he would like clearer data next year to better understand the reasons behind membership

losses. “I just want to get away from talking about this as a hunch and sort of being able to say with some certainty this is why we’re in the position we’re in,” he said. Viola said staff believe two main factors contributed to the decline: increased competition from new pickleball courts in places such as Delaware and Ocean City, and reaction to what appeared to be a large percentage increase in membership rates. He said percentage increases can appear high when starting from a low base, even if overall pricing remains a bargain.

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Board Considers Revisions to Election Procedures By ROTA L. KNOTT Publisher/Editor he Board of Directors held a first reading Dec. 20 on proposed revisions to Resolution M-06, which governs elections and referendums procedures, following challenges encountered during the summer 2025 election process. Director Jeff Heavner presented the proposed changes during the meeting, explaining that the revi-

sions are based on feedback from the Elections Committee and are intended to improve timing, clarity and administration of future elections. “The topic is a revision to resolution M-06, the elections and referendums procedures,” Heavner said as he introduced the item. He said he was proposing this first reading to accomplish five changes to resolution M-06, elec-

Pines Eyes Expanded Advertising on Radio/TV By ROTA L. KNOTT Publisher/Editor uring a Dec. 19 review of staff’s proposed fiscal year 2027 operating budget, the Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors examined a public relations and marketing plan that includes expanded advertising on radio and television, $322,017 in total expenses, and $62,209 budgeted specifically for promotion costs, despite anticipated advertising revenue of just $75,000. Linda Martin, senior director of administration, presented the proposed public relations and marketing budget to the Board. She said the association plans to broaden its promotional efforts beyond traditional outlets. “We’re actually starting that this year,” Martin said, referring to the move into television and radio advertising. Board members questioned why no funding for sponsorships was included in the proposed budget. Martin explained that the association recently lost a primary sponsor but is actively seeking new ones. “We did not include it in the budget because at this time we do not have a sponsor for our podcast and other events,” she said, adding that staff are “actively pursuing the sponsorships.” Martin emphasized that radio and television advertising will not replace print advertising. Instead, she said those efforts are being added to existing newspaper promotion as part of the overall promotion line. Director Stuart Lakernick asked about audience engagement with the association’s podcast, saying he listens to all of the episodes and wanted to know how many people

tune in. Martin said listenership varies by topic. “It wasn’t as many as we thought,” she said, noting that one recent episode received about 50 hits. Director Steve Jacobs sought clarification on whether the association is actively expanding into radio and television advertising. Martin confirmed the plan and said the first radio advertising campaign will begin in January. She said the association is promoting an upcoming Recreation and Parks trip to a Capitals game after a December game was canceled due to low participation, and will also begin promoting other amenities, including food and beverage offerings. General Manager John Viola said the association is proceeding cautiously with the expanded advertising strategy. “We’re going lightly,” he said, adding, “but we’re going to give it a try a little more than we did in the past.” Jacobs asked whether the radio and television line items in the budget were specifically for purchasing advertising, and Viola confirmed that they were. Viola said one of the programs under consideration for advertising is Hooked on OC. He added that the association plans to partner with Touch of Italy on the effort and expects to finalize details soon. He described the cost as modest but potentially effective, explaining that past advertising efforts were heavily focused on the golf course. This time, he said, the goal is to promote Ocean Pines more broadly while incorporating food and beverage offerings through the partnership with Touch of Italy.

tions and referendum procedures based upon feedback from the election committee. According to meeting materials, the purpose and effect of the revisions are to correct difficulties experienced during the most recent election cycle. The proposed amendments address language related to candidate applications, voting deadlines, ballot preparation language, minor punctuation, and the timing of post-election meetings. The first proposed change would amend Section 5 of Resolution M-06, which deals with candidate applications. Under the current policy, when the list of eligible candidates is fewer than two more than the number of vacancies to be filled, there is an extended solicitation period for additional candidates that runs from June 1 through the third Friday in June. For the next election this summer, that deadline would fall on June 19. Heavner said the Elections Committee found that this window was too long and disrupted the overall

election timeline. He said the change regarding candidate applications would alter the time allocated for solicitation of additional candidates when the list of eligible candidates is less than two more than the vacancies to be filled. He proposed changing that time to seven business days. For 2026, this would change deadline from June 19 to June 9. “This excessive time period was found to adversely affect the proper time of significant voting process events,” Heavner said. The second proposed revision addresses Section 3 of the resolution, which sets the voting deadline. Currently, voting must be completed prior to the end of the association’s regular business hours on the designated day. Heavner said this requirement has created logistical challenges, particularly with overnight delivery of ballots to the voting contractor. He proposed changing the voting deadline from prior to the end of the association regular hours to noon on the Wednesday before the annual To Page11

10 Ocean Pines PROGRESS January 2026

OCEAN PINES

Board Approves $406,000 ‘Emergency’ Irrigation Project Expansion at Ocean Pines Golf Course By ROTA L. KNOTT Publisher/Editor mergency irrigation repairs, separate from and in addition to the Phase II Golf Course Irrigation Project already underway, were approved by the Board of Directors at its Dec. 20 meeting. The Board unanimously approved a $406,000 capital request for irriga-

PINES NOTES tion replacement at the Ocean Pines Golf Course. The request was presented by General Manager John Viola and Director of Golf Maintenance Justin Hartshorne. The approved contract will be awarded to Irrigation Ser-

vices Inc., with work expected to begin in February or March. “We understand this is a big number,” Viola said. Hartshorne said the irrigation upgrades have been implemented incrementally. He said the OPA has

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been phasing in the project, he said, explaining that staff has been piecing together different sections of the golf course for irrigation work. He added that when a contractor is already on site, crews often evaluate adjacent sections and complete additional work at the same time. Viola said moving the work forward now will result in cost efficiencies compared to waiting another year. He noted the request was labeled an emergency due to leaks in the irrigation system. He said the OPA has found it can get efficiencies and better pricing from the contractors for additional work while they’re already on site. OPA President John Latham clarified that the work had been planned for next year and is being accelerated because the contractor is already on site. “This was in the plan anyway is that correct?” Latham asked. Viola confirmed the irrigation replacement had been planned to take place over a four-year period. “We’ve labeled it as emergency,” he said, adding that advancing some of the work allows the association to keep the contractor on the job and continue progress without interruption. Director Elaine Brady said the overall scope of the irrigation project is not changing, only the timing of certain components. The Board approved the contract for the additional work as presented. Meanwhile, Phase II of the Golf Course Irrigation Project began earlier this month. Crews are currently working on hole No. 4 and marking new irrigation head locations with pin flags. “We’re right on track,” Viola said, noting the goal is to complete the front nine holes this year. The total cost of Phase II of the project is $800,810.

South Fire Station Construction of the South Fire Station is expected to begin in February 2026 and will take an estimated 60 weeks to complete, according to an update provided to the Board by General Manager John Viola. Preparatory work on the project has been underway and the effort is now nearing the contract approval

January 2026 Ocean Pines PROGRESS 11

OCEAN PINES stage. The OPA is currently working with its attorney to finalize the construction contract, which was expected to be received by the end of December. Once finalized, the contract will be brought before the Board of Directors for review and sign-off. Staff plans to present the final contract to the Board for consideration at its January meeting. A meeting with county officials regarding the required construction permit was scheduled for early January, with a permit meeting set for Jan. 5. Viola said the project is well positioned to move forward. “We’ve been working on a pre-planning for several years,” he added, “I believe we have a solid plan, a solid building.”

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g, Heavner noted that a comma is missing in the existing text. The fifth and final proposed revision would amend Attachment A, Section 11, paragraph c, sub-paragraph iv, to clearly define the timeframe for the post-election Elections Committee meeting. Currently, the policy states that the meeting should occur on the day of the annual meeting or as soon as possible afterward, language that the Elections Committee found to be too vague. “The current time is defined from as the day of the annual meeting or soon as possible after the annual meeting. The proposed time frame is no later than 5 days after the annual meeting,” Heavner said. The Dec. 20 discussion marked the first reading of the proposed revisions. No vote was taken at the meeting, as the Board’s procedures require multiple readings before adoption. The second reading for the proposed changes is expected at the Board’s January meeting.

From Page 9

meeting. Heavner said waiting until the end of regular business hours can make it challenging to organize overnight delivery to voted ballots to the voting contractor. Several changes were also proposed to Attachment A of the resolution, which provides additional procedural detail. The third change would revise Section 7, paragraph c, of Attachment A to include more explicit language regarding ballot preparation for the association’s secure ballot box. The added language would clarify that ballots are to be prepared using the same instructions provided for marking and returning ballots by other methods. Heavner said “The lack of this detail led to ballot return preparation confusion when using the dropbox.” The fourth proposed change is a minor technical correction. In Attachment A, Section 9, paragraph

Proposed updates to the Ocean Pines Yacht Club, Clubhouse Pavilion, and Beach Club continue to move forward, according to an update provided at the Dec. 20 meeting of the OPA Board of Directors. OPA is working with Touch of Italy and Vista on the projects, with upcoming steps including soliciting construction bids and securing Board approval. Capital requests for the improvements were approved at the October Board meeting. At the Yacht Club, General Manager John Viola said interest from contractors has been strong. He noted that several contractors have already contacted OPA about bidding on the work. “Hopefully we get some nice bids,” Viola said.

Viola provided an update on the Yacht Club kitchen, stating that meetings have already taken place with Touch of Italy and Vista. He was optimistic that they would soon have plans completed and they’ll be able to start putting bids out for construction, he said. At the Beach Club, Viola said Touch of Italy had planned to complete work on the downstairs area over the winter. However, OPA recently received an update indicating that the work will likely be delayed until next year. Viola also shared an update on the Clubhouse Pavilion project, which is also being coordinated with Touch of Italy. Plans call for construction of a new pavilion that will include an outdoor kitchen. Viola said that portion of the project appears to be on track. Touch of Italy is also planning to complete some work inside the bar area, which will be handled as part of its scope. OPA staff will continue coordinating with partners as plans are finalized and construction bids are prepared for Board consideration.

Boat Slips on Hold A preliminary proposal to install transient boat slips along the canal at the Ocean Pines Golf Course is on hold and is not included in the general manager’s proposed fiscal year 2026–27 budget. General Manager John Viola said during a Dec. 20 meeting that the project is not moving forward at this time. The concept, first discussed publicly in October, envisioned four transient boat slips arranged as two structures with two dock fingers near the 10th tee, along with a stone-dust walkway leading boaters toward the clubhouse. Preliminary cost estimates placed the slips at

approximately $14,000, not including the walkway. Viola said the idea was presented at a high level to frame discussion, noting then that the Board had not voted on the project and that no detailed plans have been developed.

Dashboard Data As of Nov1, there were 134 property violations outstanding with the Compliance, Permits, and Inspections office. Another 14 violations were initiated in during the month, including 1 driveway, 1 no house number, 2 maintenance, 7 no permit, 1 shed color, 1 tress and 1 unregistered vehicle. CPI closed out 21 violations during the month, but there were still 127 remaining as of month end, including 45 maintenance, trash, or debris, 31 no permit, 3 trees, and 48 miscellaneous. Public Works had 195 open work orders as of Nov. 1 and received 52 new work orders during the month, including 9 bulkheads, 11 drainage, 11 grounds or landscaping, 8 roads, 3 signs and 10 general maintenance. The bulk of the remaining open work orders, 72, are for drainage. It had 195 open at the end of the month, with 72 of those open work orders for drainage issues. The OPA had 39 customer service contacts in November, including 5 for amenities, 5 for CPI, 1 drainage, 21 in general questions or comments, and 7 for public works.

Maintenance projects Public Works crews have been actively removing leaves from medians, parks, and ditches owned by the Ocean Pines Association, an effort officials say has already improved drainage throughout the community. General Manager John Viola To Page12

12 Ocean Pines PROGRESS January 2026

WORCESTER COUNTY

Ratepayers May Face Bay Restoration Fee After Winter Nutrient Spike at Pines Plant By ROTA L. KNOTT Publisher/Editor cean Pines ratepayers may soon be required to pay the state’s Bay Restoration Fee after higher-than-normal nutrient loads at the community’s wastewater treatment plant last winter pushed levels above the threshold that allows the service area to remain exempt. Worcester County officials say they plan to petition the state for an exemption, citing extreme cold weather conditions early in the year that significantly affected plant performance. The issue was discussed during the Worcester County Commissioners’ meeting on Dec. 16, after Commissioner Chip Bertino raised concerns about information included in the commissioners’ information packet. Bertino said the packet contained a letter from the Ocean Pines Service Area’s water and wastewater advisory Board regarding the potential loss of the Bay Restoration Fee exemption, which Ocean Pines

ratepayers currently receive because the treatment plant has historically remained below nutrient thresholds that trigger the fee. “In January and February earlier this year those numbers spiked as a result of a number of factors,” Bertino said. Bertino asked Dallas Baker, the county’s public works director, to provide an update on where the county stands and what the next steps might be. “Since they brought it up to us, I’d like to get it out publicly,” Bertino said. Baker explained that there are two specific criteria a wastewater treatment plant must meet to qualify for an exemption from the Bay Restoration Fee. First, the facility cannot have accepted any state or federal grants. Baker said the Ocean Pines treatment plant has not taken such funding. Second, the plant must maintain annual average nutrient levels below 3 milligrams per liter for nitrogen and below 0.3 mil-

110

ligrams per liter for phosphorus. Based on data collected through the end of November, Baker said Ocean Pines’ nitrogen levels are currently above the allowable annual average. “The current numbers that we have through the end of November have our nitrogen level above 3 milligrams per liter,” Baker said. “We’re close but mathematically we’re not going to get there by the end of the year.” Baker noted that this is not the first time the plant has faced challenges related to cold weather. In 2011, the treatment plant experienced similar issues during a period of unusually low temperatures. At that time, the county submitted a letter to the state requesting an exemption, arguing that cold weather had negatively affected treatment performance. “The plant is not designed to operate at sustained cold temperatures,” Baker said, adding that the To Page13

PINES NOTES From Page 11

said crews are focusing on medians, parks, and all ditches that are owned by OPA or are part of park areas. He noted the work was accelerated this year in response to resident feedback. Last year, a property owners pointed out that the OPA was asking residents to clean up their leaves but the association wasn’t taking care of them on its own properties. “So, we’re on that this year,” he said. Viola said the increased focus has produced noticeable results. “I just want to say, and I call this program together, we’re better. Everything that Ocean Pines has done with the ditches, with the leaves, and I appreciate it.” It has really made a difference in the drainage, he said. Meanwhile, Senior Director of Administration Linda Martin reminded property owners that they are responsible for maintaining ditches adjacent to their property under the Declaration of Restrictions. Keeping ditches clear of leaves and debris helps prevent flooding and other water-related issues.

January 2026 Ocean Pines PROGRESS 13

WORCESTER COUNTY

Worcester Officials Outline Water and Wastewater Bill Appeal Process Amid Rising Customer Concerns By ROTA L. KNOTT Publisher/Editor orcester County staff detailed the procedures for appealing water and wastewater bills during a Dec. 2 meeting of the Worcester County Commissioners, responding to a growing number of questions from residents, particularly in Ocean Pines, about unexplained spikes in usage and concerns about the accuracy of their quarterly bills. Commissioner Chip Bertino, who represents the Ocean Pines district, said he has recently received numerous inquiries from customers who are unsure how to challenge their bills or understand the review process. He said he has fielded questions and concerns about appeal process for individual regarding amount of usage on bills, prompting him to ask county staff to explain publicly how an appeal question is handled. Quinn Dittrich, the county’s enterprise fund controller, provided the first overview. He said ratepay-

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ers should contact either the county treasurer’s office or the Department of Public Works if they want to appeal the water and wastewater usage charges that appear on their quarterly bills. Dittrich emphasized that customers should reach out even if their usage appears unusually low or inconsistent, as that too could be a sign of a problem. The first step, he said, is for the county to send someone out to examine the meter on-site. During that inspection, if staff find that “the meter is its continuously moving” even when no water is running in the home, that is strong evidence that “was a leak.” Customers who later confirm there was a leak and provide documentation can receive

an adjustment, he said. Customers can provide an invoice and show a leak was repaired, then the county would typically reduce their invoice down to the amount typically would be without a leak. Dittrich added that if a ratepayer calls the treasurer’s office, staff there will immediately notify Public Works. “Someone goes out and checks meter,” he said, reiterating that an on-site inspection is always the first step. Bertino then asked what happens when a meter is found to be functioning normally but the customer still believes the bill is unreasonably high. If the water meter is found to be working fine but the customer

still thinks their bill is excessive and it doesn’t resolve issue about a high bill, what’s the next step? he asked. Dittrich explained that the next option is for the customer to submit an appeal to the county’s grievance committee. That committee, he said, is comprised of the enterprise fund controller, public works director, treasurer’s office, and the water and wastewater superintendent. Public Works Director Dallas Baker elaborated on the committee’s typical review process and what might trigger an adjustment. He said his office examines a customer’s historical water use when determining whether the reported usage makes sense. If a customer

Bay Restoration

nal year-end numbers are available, the county plans to formally request that the state exclude January and February from the annual calculation, as was done previously. “At the end of the year once we have the numbers is the expectation that the county will petition the state to drop off January and February as they have done before,” Bertino asked. Baker responded affirmatively. “We will send the state that letter with that request,” he said. Baker also noted that the county had already taken steps earlier in the year. In June, Worcester County sent a letter to the state notifying officials of the situation and requesting an early decision. While the state acknowledged that there was precedent for granting such an exemption, Baker said the decision was deferred.

“They agreed there was a precedent but decided to withhold a decision until the end of the year,” he said. Commission President Ted Elder commented on the broader context of the exemption, noting that Ocean Pines’ situation is unique within the county. He said the exemption represents “a nice advantage” and added that he is happy Ocean Pines residents are able to be eligible for the Bay Restoration Fee exemption because no other service area in the county receives it. Baker pointed out, however, that the exemption does come with a limitation. Because the treatment plant has not accepted state grants, the county is unable to apply for state funding when upgrades are needed. “That’s the only challenge,” Baker said.

From Page 12

state ultimately granted the waiver. According to Baker, the winter of the current year brought comparable conditions. Nitrogen levels were “extremely high” during January and February, when cold temperatures persisted for weeks. Baker said nitrogen measured about 11 milligrams per liter in January and 6 milligrams per liter in February. “The plant’s designed to operate down to 12 degrees and we had sustained weeks of 9 degrees or lower for the weather back in the early part of this year,” Baker said. Baker explained that if those two months are excluded due to the cold weather impacts, the annual nitrogen average drops significantly. Without January and February included, the nitrogen average would be 2.66 milligrams per liter, which is below the threshold required for exemption. Phosphorus levels are also close to the cutoff. Baker said the phosphorus average through November stands at 0.31 milligrams per liter. To bring the annual average below 0.3, December’s phosphorus level would need to come in at 0.21 milligrams per liter. “We are currently at .21,” Baker said. “We’re trending in the right direction.” To ensure accuracy, Baker said samples are being sent to two different laboratories for quality control. Bertino asked whether, once fi-

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WORCESTER COUNTY Water Bills From Page 13

has historically been using 10,000 gallons and suddenly they are using 1 million gallons, that may indicate a significant leak. “Those are places where we can do adjustments,” he said. Bertino pressed further, asking how often unusually high bills turn out to be caused by faulty meters. He asked if more often than not it is a faulty meter. Baker replied that the answer is generally no. Most high-use issues originate from leaks. He noted that it is often due to water leaks, like toilets running or someone thought they turned faucet off and didn’t. In fact, he said, “majority of time it’s a leak.” Baker clarified that in most cases, the source of the problem is on the property owner’s side of the meter. “Most of the time it’s behind the meter,” he said, adding that the customer is responsible for those repairs. Still, he urged customers not to rush into hiring a plumber before the county inspects the meter. He encourages customers not to spend money on hiring a plumber until they contact public works to investigate the issue. There have been instances where a leak was discovered on the county’s side of the system, Baker said. In those situations, “if the problem is on our side we will pay to fix it,” although he cautioned that “they are not going to get your money back from the county” if the customers has the repair made on the county’s side of the meter. Bertino also asked about leaks that are not immediately apparent, such as underground breaks that are only discovered when a high bill arrives. Baker acknowledged that this can happen, especially if the pipe is in a crawlspace or buried. “It’s not going to be obvious,” he said. He noted that “more times than not” the issue turns out to be “toilet leak where value has stuck,” adding that customers would be shocked by the amount of water wasted. When Bertino asked how many gallons a toilet can leak in an hour, Baker estimated roughly 60 gallons. Bertino reacted by saying “that’s a heck of a lot more” and “Who knew a leaky toilet will use that much water?” Baker said the county’s new meters may help identify these hidden issues sooner.

January 2026 Ocean Pines PROGRESS 15 The upgraded units allow staff to view up to 90 days of usage history. For example, he said the data can show that at 2 a.m. a house was using 120 gallons and that is evidence of a problem. He added that “there are a lot of times where you’re finding leaks with the new software” associated with the new meters. Returning to the appeals process, Bertino asked what happens once the grievance committee receives a case. Baker said requests typically arrive by email from the treasurer’s office or Public Works, each containing a specific request to review a situation. Bertino asked whether ratepayers ever meet directly with staff. Baker responded that not typically. Typically they are contacted by phone, but if they would like to meet the county will do so. He added that “most times is a favorable response to rate payer concerns” when a case reaches the committee. Bertino then asked about next steps if a customer remains dissatisfied after the grievance committee’s decision. County staff said the matter can then be escalated to the commissioners for review. Baker noted that customers can also request formal meter testing. If the meter is working properly, the customer pays for the test. If it is faulty, the county covers the cost. He said the typical fee is “$60 or more,” with larger commercial meters costing more than $100 to test. He also noted that the county does not have the ability to test larger meters inhouse. Commissioner Ted Elder recalled that “we had one come before the commissioners several years ago,” an appeal from Ocean Pines,” illustrating that escalated appeals have precedent. Bertino said such calls “have been a little more frequent over the last month and half” after customers received bills reflecting the county’s rate increase. Commissioner Joe Mitrecic contrasted Worcester County’s system with that of a neighboring jurisdiction. He said that in the Town of Ocean City “there is no appeal process for water and wastewater usage bills.” He added, “If it goes through the meter, you pay,” noting that if usage totals 1 million gallons that’s what the customer has to pay. The commissioners took no formal action on Dec. 2 but said the review was intended to help clarify the process for the public.

COUNTY NOTES

Commissioners Require Notification of Neighbors for Cell Tower Hearing By ROTA L. KNOTT Publisher/Editor orcester County Commissioners during a December meeting rejected a staff request to reduce notifications for the proposed monopole telecommunications tower on the Ocean Pines golf course. Staff had requested a waiver to limit certified mail notifications to only those property owners within a 750-foot radius of the tower, approximately 37 properties, rather than sending certified letters to all 290 adjoining properties. Jennifer K. Keener, director of the Department of Planning and Zoning, clarified that the request did not waive the notification process entirely. Standard legal notifications, including posting the property, sending letters via regular

mail to all adjoining property owners, and advertising in the newspaper, would still occur. The waiver would have applied only to certified electronic mail. Keener explained that the cost of sending certified letters to all 290 adjoining properties, at $8.90 per letter, would total $2,581. The department had previously budgeted $3,500 for administrative postage and freight for FY26. Limiting the certified mail to the smaller group would have reduced the cost but would still require an over expenditure if the full notifications were approved. Commissioner Chip Bertino opposed narrowing the notification process, stating, “Everybody needs to be notified.” Keener noted that under the staff To Page16

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proposal, affected property owners would not receive electronic certified mail, but Bertino argued that they should receive both traditional and electronic notifications. “Anybody affected by this in Ocean Pines needs to be notified,” he reiterated. In response, Keener requested an over expenditure to cover the additional cost of full certified notifications. Bertino made a motion to approve the over expenditure, with

the motion. The motion was approved, with Commissioner Joe Mitrecic voting in opposition. The full notification process aligns with existing Board of Zoning Appeals requirements. Under the Zoning Code, staff must send standard letters to all adjoining property owners, post the subject property, and advertise in the newspaper. Since a 2023 vote by the commissioners, staff have also been sending certified letters to all adjoining properties to ensure proper notice. Appli-

WORCESTER COUNTY cation fees include a $50 charge to offset certified mail costs, but additional funding was required for the Ocean Pines project due to the large number of affected properties. By requiring full notifications, the commissioners ensured that all residents potentially affected by the new cell tower will be fully informed, maintaining transparency and adherence to legal notification requirements.

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At their Dec. 2 meeting, the Worcester County Commissioners elected officers for the upcoming year through Dec. 1, 2026. Commissioner Ted Elder was re-elected as president of the Board of County Commissioners in a 5-2 vote, with Commissioners Eric Fiori and Joe Mitrecic opposing. Commissioner Jim Bunting was elected vice president in a 4-3 vote, with Commissioners Fiori, Mitrecic, and Diana Purnell voting against the nomination.

Route 50 Bridge To Be Detoured The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration was set to begin rehabilitation work on the Route 50 Harry W. Kelley Memorial Bridge over the Sinepuxent Bay in Ocean City this week. Drivers can expect occasional daytime single-lane closures initially through Jan. 20. A total closure and detour will occur starting Jan. 20 through Feb. 3. Following the total closure and detour, single-lane closures will go back into effect until the project is completed which is anticipated by March 20, weather permitting. Additionally, the channel under the bridge will be closed to marine traffic starting January 5 until the project’s completion. Crews will replace the nose lock assembly and retrofit the floor beam. These repairs require the bridge remain in the open position with draw spans in the upright position for the repairs to be completed. Work being done is to extend the service life of the 84-year-old bridge. Motorists will follow a signed detour that includes Route 113, Route 90 and Route 528 while the bridge is closed.

Christmas Tree Amnesty Event Worcester County residents with household permit stickers can drop off their Christmas trees for free during the annual Christmas Tree Amnesty Event. The event runs through Jan. 31 at the Central Landfill in Newark and the Berlin, Pocomoke, and Snow Hill Homeowners Convenience Centers. Commercial haulers, businesses, and organizations that sold trees are not eligible for the free drop-off at convenience centers but may take trees to the Central Landfill, where normal tipping fees apply. All trees collected will be ground into mulch.

January 2026 Ocean Pines PROGRESS 17

LIFESTYLES ACT Director Speaks to Anglers Club The Ocean Pines Anglers Club will meet on Saturday, Jan. 17 at 9:30 a.m. in the Ocean Pines Library. The speaker will be Taylor Swanson, Assateague Coastal Trust’s executive director and Assateague Coastkeeper. He will be discussing the Assateague Coastal Trust’s mission “protect and defend the health of Delmarva’s waters through advocacy, education, science and the enforcement of clean water laws.” The meeting will also discuss charter and fishing regulation updates and all things fishing. All are welcome to attend.

OPA Celebrates Staff Service Milestones Several Ocean Pines Association staff members were recognized for their years of dedicated service during the annual Holiday Luncheon, held Dec.19 at the Ocean Pines Yacht Club. Employees honored for reaching milestone service anniversaries were: Joe Bailey, Sandra Milito, Dustin Berkey and David Quinones, 5 years; Michelle Hitchens, 10 years; Lisa Jarman and Debbie Donahue, 15 years; Earl Hall, 20 years; Nobie Violante, 25 years; and James Brasure and Robert Grant, 30 years. John Viola, general manager, thanked staff members for their continued dedication and commitment to serving the Ocean Pines community.

Republican Women to Hold Meeting The Republican Women of Worcester County will hold their January General Luncheon meeting on Thursday, Jan. 15 at Worcester Technical High School located at 6290 Worcester Highway (Rt 113), Newark, MD. The guest speaker will be Maria Sofia, Government affairs, CATO Institute and First VP of MFRW. Her topic will be “How to us AI effectively and safely.” For more information, visit gopwomenofwc@gmail.com.

Another Successful Angel Tree Campaign More than 100 angels were placed on the Angel Tree, located inside the Ocean Pines Community Center, during the 2025 during this year’s Angel Tree campaign. More than 100 gifts were donated to local fam-

COMMUNITY NOTES The Ocean Pines Anglers Club at their December meeting announced winners of the 2025 Walt Boge Fishing Tournament which recognizes Anglers for largest fish in each of 15 categories from Dec. 1, 2024 to Nov. 30 2025. Pictured (from left) Frank Tortella, Fresh Water Trout, 12.5 inches; Ken Thompson, Tuna, 71 inches; Rich Kuhar, Croaker, 13.5 inches, Spot, 9 ¾ inches, Large Mouth Bass, 17 inches. Not pictured Adam Thompson, Striped Bass, 48 inches, Sea Bass, 21 inches, Tautog, 20.25 inches; Greg Donahue, Bluefish, 14.75 inches; Judy Schiable, Flounder, 23 inches; Tom Ottenwaelder, Salt Water Trout, 15 inches.

ilies in need and P.E.P. Club members this holiday season. “I feel incredibly blessed to live in a community where so many people are willing to show up and help one another,” said Katie Goetzinger, recreation program supervisor. “Residents consistently called the Community Center asking if there were more angel ornaments available to shop for. Seeing the tree filled— and refilled—three times was truly heartwarming. Knowing how many people will be receiving gifts makes it all worthwhile.”

Off-season hours are Thursday through Monday, 9 a.m. to close, and the Clubhouse is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Rec & Parks Hosting Capitals Bus Trip Ocean Pines Recreation and Parks is hosting a bus trip to the Washington Capitals vs. Carolina Hurricanes rematch game on Saturday, Jan. 31.

Tickets are $130 per person and include round-trip transportation, a game ticket, and a food package. The package includes one ticketed food item and unlimited beer and wine at Devils Backbone Brewing Company until the start of the third period. The bus will depart the Ocean Pines Community Center parking lot at 1 p.m., with an additional pickup location added at the Shoppes at Salisbury parking lot at 1:30 p.m. Game time is 5 p.m. For more information and tickets, call 410-641-7052.

Big Game Scramble Set for OP Golf Club Golfers are invited to tee it up at Ocean Pines Golf Club during the Big Game Scramble on Sunday, Feb. 8. The two-player scramble tournament will feature a shotgun start at 10 a.m. Registration is $20 per team and includes range balls, entry into the prize pool, a hot dog, and a beer. Greens and cart fees will be paid the day of the tournament ($35 for non-members; members pay their regular membership rate). For more information or to register, call 410-641-6057.

January Specials, Music at the Clubhouse There’s plenty to enjoy this January at the Clubhouse Bar & Grille, with weekly food and drink specials, live music, and game-day fun. Mondays feature $10 Smashburgers from 11 a.m. until close, along with Music Bingo from 4–6 p.m. Happy Hour runs from 4–6 p.m. on Mondays and Fridays, while Thursdays offer all-day Happy Hour. Fridays include $10 nine-inch Bulldog-style pizzas available all day, plus live music from 5–8 p.m. The January Friday night live music lineup includes: Jan. 9, Lennon La Ricci; Jan. 16, Jack Bannon; Jan. 23, Opposite Direction; and Jan. 30, Jack Bannon. On Saturdays, enjoy Wii Bowling on the big-screen TVs from 2–5 p.m. Sundays round out the week with NFL Ticket coverage. Both days include all-day specials and giveaways, including buy one get one half off appetizers. Specials subject to change. There is one more complimentary chili bar to enjoy this football season on Monday, Jan. 12.

OPEN SATURDAYS OR BY APPOINTMENT PLEASE CALL 410-251-7528

18 Ocean Pines PROGRESS January 2026

LIFESTYLES

New owners scoop up PopCe’s, preserving favorite flavors while expanding the menu By PROGRESS STAFF mong the many tempting desserts at PopCe’s Homemade Ice Cream is a butter pecan ice cream cake made by co-owner Lorrance Banna, one of several flavors in the freezer at the Manklin Creek Road shop where customers will also find the sweet, layered baklava, made with ground pistachios or pecans, pastries and more than 30 favors of ice cream made by her husband, Taz. The couple bought PopCe’s from Robert Miller, who decided to retire, kept the name that is well known among customers, expanded the menu and set their hours at Sundays to Thursdays from 2 to 8 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 1 to 9 p.m. Customers concerned the ice

A Staff photo

Lorrance Banna displays an icecream cake at PopCe’s.

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cream recipe would change after the shop was sold, or that their favorite flavors would no longer be available, can relax, Mrs. Banna said, adding the former owner shared recipes and his technique with them. Taz Banna told The Progress he’s proud to now own PopCe’s with his wife, father-in-law and motherin-law and said his family “brings many years of hands-on experience in crafting homemade ice cream.” “We are excited to continue this tradition within our community. The shop was founded by a brave local owner … His dedication and passion resulted in exceptional ice cream and a loyal customer base, as reflected in the many positive reviews from the community. We are honored to carry on the legacy

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LIFESTYLES

January 2026 Ocean Pines PROGRESS 19

he built. Since taking over the business, it has been a pleasure meeting our local customers and getting to know them. The warm welcome and support from the community have meant a great deal to our family. Our plan is to preserve the original recipes and quality that customers know and love, while gradually expanding the brand,” he said. The couple, which has restaurant experience from years living in Lebanon, made ice cream there, but Mrs. Banna said the machines and recipes are different from the way it’s made in the United States. Seasonal flavors include candy cane, peppermint bark, goose tracks, mint Oreo, run raisin, sugar cookie and peanut butter ripple. Butter beer is similar to a butterscotch flavor and there are also non-dairy, gluten free and sugar free items. Customers can look forward to

spring flavors including pina colada. Keep up with the latest flavors on Facebook and Instagram. Banana splits and sundaes are always on the menu and there is cornhole outdoors. “Our customers like that we have so many different flavors. Every time they come, they choose a different flavor. They say, ‘We like it’ and ‘We’re glad you’re here.’ They are happy,” Mrs. Banna said. “Our family has lived in Ocean Pines for the past 10 years and we are deeply committed to growing alongside this beautiful town. We look forward to serving our community for many years to come,” her husband added. The couple, parents of a toddler and 7-month-old, plan to open additional PopCe’s shops in West Ocean City and Ocean City.

The Ocean Pines Progress is a journal of news and lifestyles published monthly throughout the year. It is distributed to every occupied home in Ocean Pines and at newsstands in the community.

PUBLISHER/EDITOR Rota L. Knott pinesprogress@gmail.com 443-880-3953

ADVERTISING SALES Frank Bottone frankbottone@gmail.com 410-430-3660

CONTRIBUTING WRITER David Bohenick dbohenick2003@gmail.com

Send your community news releases, letters to the editor, and upcoming events information to us at: pinesprogress@gmail.com

Staff photo

Lorrance Banna scooping up a treat at PopCe’s.

LIFESTYLES

20 Ocean Pines PROGRESS January 2026

Taylor’s set to reopen under new ownership, with menu updates and a new name ahead By PROGRESS STAFF nder the new ownership of Ann Kellington, Taylor’s Neighborhood Restaurant at the South Gate of Ocean Pines was expected to reopen on Tuesday, Jan. 6, and, by spring, start offering breakfast and vegetarian options,

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plus get a new name. Kellington wasn’t quite ready to reveal that moniker yet, but said there will be an announcement about that, and a grand opening, around March and that Taylor’s will continue to be a sports bar and neighborhood gathering spot. “We’re changing the menu and the décor, a bit. We will still have American cuisine, with hamburgers, wings, those kinds of menu items, but we will be adding some family meals to the menu, vegetarian meals and low-sodium dishes. We do plan on serving breakfast starting in March. The prices will stay the same, mid-range,” she said. Desserts aren’t planned yet, but she and her husband and business partner, Chuck Mitchell, have a few ideas for sweet finishing touches. Indoor seating capacity of 182 won’t change but outdoor seating of 35 will be added and the new owners will be painting and “freshening it up,” Kellington said. “We will offer patio specials. They hadn’t done a lot out there with the patio so we will be offering patio specials as the weather gets warmer,” said Kellington, an Ocean Pines property owner since 2009. “I love this place. It has always been near and dear to me and I always thought it could be so much more. That’s what I hope to bring to the community and we look forward to welcoming everyone,” she said. Kellington has worked in many restaurants, primarily in Frederick County, Md. Taylor’s is the first restaurant she has owned, after buying it from former owner Zev Sibony. “I want everyone to have a pleasant, homey feeling when they come here, a family kind of atmosphere with family dinners. I’ve always got a listening ear and I am always open to suggestions. This is such a popular location. It is a prime location. For the longest time, it was one of the only places here. “Everybody knows everybody here and I love that. I’ve been coming here with my husband and we have met a lot of the people. I love everyone who comes in here. I feel like they are already family,” she said.

January 2026 Ocean Pines PROGRESS 21

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LIFESTYLES

Penguin Swim plunges into 30th year, raising $131K this New Year’s Day for Atlantic General Hospital By PROGRESS STAFF ince a handful of Atlantic General Hospital physicians conceived of a unique idea for a fund raiser in 1995, the annual Penguin Swim has raised more than $2 million, including $131,000 this year, at the annual event that, on New Year’s Day, attracted 850 participants. “That first year, a bunch of

doctors decided to jump in the ocean to raise money. One of them was one of our ER doctors. It started years ago in front of The Carousel Hotel in Ocean City. A couple doctors jumped in and they raised $10,000 that first year,” Event Coordinator Laura Powell told the Progress. Proceeds, she said, “go to the community and the health of the community.”

“It can be equipment for the hospital. It always goes back to the community and the health of the community. People have a tendency to not realize hospitals are not-forprofit in Maryland. Most of them are not-for-profit so the money always goes back to health care in the community. That is how we get the latest and greatest, like maybe replacing an MRI machine. But it’s

not just for AGH. It is the health system around here. It goes into the community because there are screenings we can provide for the community or new equipment that will serve everybody,” she said. Bull on the Beach has been a legacy sponsor since the Penguin Swim began and, Powell said, has been “very generous each year,” even planning a golf tournament.

January 2026 Ocean Pines PROGRESS 23

LIFESTYLES The Ocean City Ravens Roost also supports the Swim. Powell has splashed into the ocean on several New Year’s Days but said she “always lucked out” because temperatures were warm for January. “The first year I worked it I was in a short-sleeved shirt. The last few years the weather had been very kind but there is so much excitement in the air it’s hard to notice what the temperature is outside,” she said. Many participants add to the fun by wearing costumes, including a regular who dresses like Poseidon, the powerful ancient Greek god of the sea, earthquakes, storms and horses. Powell has also spotted Old Bay and crab costumes. Prizes are awarded for best individual, couple and family costumes and other “bests,” including traveling the longest distance. This year, Great Britain residents were at the Swim. “One of my favorite things about this event is it has become a tradition for families, as well. We have three major events every year – a golf tournament, an anniversary celebration that is a lovely, formal night out and the Penguin Swim and it is for the entire family. You can have your 2-year-old niece. You can have your 90-year-old grandmother. It’s so inclusive of everybody. It’s a lot of fun. You have individuals who do it, teams, businesses, community organizations, restaurants. That is what makes it so unique,” she said, adding participants pay $30 in advance or $35 in New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day, but donations are always accepted. “We go every year. I probably have done half of them,” Penguin Swim Co-Chairman Ryan Kirby said. He gets in the water with his teenaged daughters Rylie, Kennedy and Lily, while his wife lends emotional support and holds their towels, he said. “I enjoy it for not only the community and festive atmosphere of the Swim itself but also because you get all the superheroes in full costume, whether it’s Superman or Spiderman or the Incredible Hulk or you name it. They are there. So it’s very entertaining to say the least. I usually just go in as a swimmer, so nothing unusual. We haven’t gotten around to having a family costume or anything like that,” he said. Kirby said he goes all the way into the ocean, and it isn’t miserably cold. “The Beach Patrol, the Coast Guard are there. We’re doing a

Submitted photo

Penguin Swim participants race into the ocean.

benefit for the hospital, not trying to get more patients, so they want to get people in and out of the ocean and not lingering too long out there. There were 980 last year and 965 of them were in and out in 30 seconds but there are always a handful. I went back in last year because it was so nice and another one of my kids wanted to go back in but the event starts at noon and everyone is out of the water at 12:02,” he said. Afterward, awards are presented in the atrium at the Princess Royale. “They have the youngest, the oldest. The youngest has been like 9 months old and last year, the person who won being the oldest passed away like a month ago. She was in her high 80s, like 88. They get Fisher’s popcorn, a stuffed penguin. Some of the miniature golf courses give rounds of golf and we have gift cards from all over Ocean City. Stephen Decatur High School graduate Trista Harner sings the National Anthem. The bar is open and Bull on the Beach has their really big event in the atrium. They have been the biggest supporter. They raised about $800,000,” he said, adding Marie Houck, wife of Bull on the Beach owner Phil Houck, recently died. Kirby also credited the Ocean City Ravens Roost for raising more than $200,000 in recent years. Last year, proceeds were used to buy a new MRI machine that cost about $1.5 million, Kirby said. “They got a dozen or so years out of the old one. The staff loves the new one. It’s not only brand new but it’s turnaround time is so much quicker. You can get four patients

in an hour now. With the old one everything took longer. The views weren’t as good as they are with the new one. Proceeds are used mostly for whatever is at the top of the needs list,” Kirby said. “We try to do things that would resonate with the community, so they can really understand what we are supporting as opposed to something that might go right over their heads,

whether it’s new beds for the ER or new TVs for patients’ rooms. You are looking out for the care and comfort of people staying at the hospital … We help them. With the merger now with TidalHealth, we really can use the money for things the hospital didn’t already have in their budget so we’re in a place now where we can surprise the hospital with, ‘Hey, this is what we’d like to do,’” he said.

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