R C Edition
April 15, 2025
Ocean Pines elections remain under scrutiny as vendor selection looms
By Sherrie Clifford ROC Edition Publisher
As the Ocean Pines Association heads into the 2025 Board of Directors election season, questions about transparency, vendor selection and election integrity continue to mount. A request for proposals (RFP) has reportedly drawn five bids, including one from ACE Printing, a Berlin-based company that previously handled local elections for decades without incident.
The past four election cycles, from 2021 through 2024, have each been fraught with issues ranging from procedural errors to mounting public distrust. In one case, a legal complaint challenged a candidate’s eligibility and required court intervention. What was once a routine community process has now become a recurring flashpoint over governance, oversight and communication within the association.
The 2022 election marked a pivotal shift in board control and introduced electronic voting for the first time. Though introduced as a modernization effort, the rollout quickly raised red flags among residents. Homeowners questioned the security of electronic submissions, the treatment of multi-lot owner ballots and the possibility of duplicate voting. A paper ballot recount became necessary, further eroding public trust. That same year, the entire Elections Committee resigned without public explanation.
In 2023, the association abruptly replaced ACE Printing with a vendor based in the West Coast, again without offering a clear reason. That year’s election cycle was marred by missed deadlines that forced the annual meeting to be postponed.
Residents questioned why an out-ofstate vendor, unfamiliar with local processes, was selected at all.
The 2024 election introduced yet another vendor, MK Election Services in Pennsylvania. Instead of improving public confidence, the change fueled more controversy when hundreds of ballots were found uncounted in a room and
later had to be added to the tally. Though the final results were certified, many homeowners were left with doubts about the integrity of the process.
Now in 2025, the Elections Committee has received five vendor bids. Among them is ACE Printing, whose past performance in Ocean Pines has led many residents to view it as the most reliable and costeffective option. ACE submitted one of the more competitively priced bids.
Still, concerns persist. Constant vendor changes are seen by many as a recipe for recurring errors and escalating distrust. The Elections Committee, which is comprised of volunteer members, is tasked with overseeing the selection process and ensuring secure vote tabulation.
But some residents have expressed doubts that the committee has the
expertise to vet modern online voting systems, manage complex logistics or software customizations that may be required for the process.
With the RFP process underway, the community is watching closely to see whether the association will return to a trusted local provider, stick with MK Elections or bring in yet another outside firm.
The legal challenges go back to 2021, when a candidate’s home ownership status was brought into question. That case ended in a court
ruling favoring the candidate and served as a reminder that even basic eligibility requirements had become contentious.
With the 2025 Board of Directors election fast approaching, time is running short. A vendor must be selected, the system tested and a reliable process put in place. Whether transparency will be restored or whether this year becomes the latest in a long string of election controversies remains to be seen.
County Commissioners to discuss proposed water and wastewater rate hike at April 23 Ocean Pines Library meeting
By Giovanni Guido Staff Writer
Worcester County Commissioners
Chip Bertino and Jim Bunting have scheduled a meeting at the Ocean Pines Library on Wednesday, April 23 at 6 p.m. to discuss the water and wastewater rate increases that were proposed by the county.
The commissioners have previously stated at meetings with the Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors that if the increases are approved, residents of Ocean Pines could end up paying much more than their fair share. They have encouraged both the board members and Ocean Pines residents to attend meetings in order to speak out against the rate increases.
According to Bertino, years of financial mismanagement by the county has led to a projected $2.1 million shortfall for fiscal year 2025, with $116,699 attributed to Ocean Pines. Under the proposed
draft repayment plan, the shortfall would be divided equally among the 11 water and wastewater service areas throughout the county. Ocean Pines is currently serviced by one of these 11 service areas. If this draft is passed, Ocean Pines residents will see an increase of approximately $32 per quarter, compared to the $1 to $3 increase if calculated
solely on Ocean Pines’ share of the shortfall.
County staff will be attending the meeting to provide further information and answer any questions the attendees have about the proposed rate increases.
The handout presented by the commissioners from the March 29 meeting is included on pages 16-19.
OCEAN PINES • WEST OCEAN CITY • BERLIN MD
ROC Edition • Sherrie Clifford, Publisher
Ocean Pines Association’s
By Sherrie Clifford ROC Edition Publisher
The Ocean Pines Association general manager, John Viola, has announced the promotion of three staff members into senior leadership roles, part of the organization’s continued focus on professional development and long-term succession planning.
All promotions take effect May 1, 2025.
Linda Martin, currently Director of Business Administration, will assume the position of Senior Director of Administration. In her expanded role, Martin will oversee Recreation and Parks; Public Relations and Marketing; Compliance, Permits and Inspections and Strategic Planning. She will continue reporting directly to General Manager John Viola.
Justin Hartshorne, Director of Golf Maintenance, has been promoted to Senior Director of Golf Maintenance. Along with his current responsibilities, Hartshorne will now lead a major capital improvement project focused on
golf course irrigation.
Additionally, Ruth Ann Meyer has been promoted to Deputy Director. She will continue managing memberships and assessments while taking on added oversight of racquet sports. A longtime employee with more than 25 years of experience at Ocean Pines, Meyer has held several roles throughout the organization and has steadily taken on increased responsibilities. Racquet Sports Pro Terry Underkoffler will now report directly to Meyer.
According to the Ocean Pines recent press release, these promotions reflect the Association’s commitment to developing internal talent and ensuring strong service and continuity for the Ocean Pines community.
Individual organization charts are also available on the Ocean Pines Association’s website and include: Senior Director of Golf Maintenance, Senior Director of Public Works, Senior Director of Administration, Senior Director/Controller of
Finance, Chief of Police, Director of Aquatics, Deputy Director of Public Works, Deputy Director of Finance, Director of Recreation and Parks, Director of Golf and Director of Racquet Sports.
For questions or more information, contact the Ocean Pines Association at info@oceanpines.org.
To review current organizational charts, visit: https://www.oceanpines.org/web/pages/generalmanager
ROC Edition • Sherrie Clifford, Publisher
Berlin merchants embrace partnership, promotion and community at monthly meeting
By Sherrie Clifford ROC Edition Publisher
Business owners in Berlin gathered Wednesday morning for their monthly Main Street Merchants meeting, an event that continues to foster collaboration, education and community pride in one of Maryland’s most charming small towns.
Hosted on the second Wednesday of each month from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. at the Berlin Town Office, the meeting brings together local merchants who are committed not only to their own success, but to the health and vibrancy of the town as a whole. These monthly gatherings give business owners a consistent space to share ideas, build partnerships and hear from experts who offer tools and strategies to support small businesses in an increasingly competitive landscape.
This month’s meeting focused on tourism-driven marketing and digital outreach with an informative session on advertising and social media for local merchants.
Briana Dix, who serves as the Advertising and Destination Marketing Specialist for Worcester County Tourism and Economic Development, walked attendees through ways to elevate their business presence using existing county tools, branding assets and promotional partnerships. She encouraged merchants to align with county-wide tourism campaigns and leverage digital content provided by Maryland’s Coast to attract more visitors.
Following Dix, Kim Mueller, Director of Sales for Ocean City’s Department of Tourism, shared valuable insights into current tourism trends, demographic shifts and how Berlin’s small businesses can benefit from regional visitor patterns. Mueller highlighted opportunities for joint marketing efforts and reminded merchants that regional collaboration between Ocean City, Berlin and neighboring towns can help strengthen the entire coastal economy.
In a place like Berlin where community spirit runs deep, those words resonated. The Main Street Merchants group isn’t just a networking circle; it’s a reflection of how this town operates collaboratively, creatively and with a shared appreciation for its small-town character.
Business owners took time during the meeting to introduce themselves and their services, some sharing
personal updates, upcoming events or even simple offers to crosspromote fellow businesses. This kind of grassroots partnership is not unusual in Berlin. It’s a town where a bakery will recommend a local boutique, a bookstore will promote an artist opening across the street and cafe owners will proudly display flyers for the town’s next community fundraiser. These small but meaningful gestures reflect a culture of mutual support that has long defined Berlin’s downtown business district.
That sense of unity is no accident. Berlin has long celebrated its historical roots while finding fresh ways to grow. Once named “America’s Coolest Small Town,” Berlin is no stranger to the spotlight. Its quaint downtown streets have served as the backdrop for movies like “Runaway Bride” and “Tuck Everlasting”, and its well-preserved buildings, treelined sidewalks and independent
shops draw thousands of visitors each year. But it’s the relationships between the people who live and work here that keep the spirit of Berlin alive year-round.
The Main Street Merchants meetings play a key role in maintaining those connections. By bringing business owners face-to-face each month, the meetings foster conversation and new ideas. Whether it’s planning for the next town festival, sharing marketing tools or simply offering support during the slower seasons, Berlin’s merchants know they’re stronger together.
The next Main Street Merchants meeting is scheduled for the second Wednesday of next month. All local business owners are encouraged to attend, especially those looking to become more involved in shaping the future of downtown Berlin.
For a town built on history and heart, that future looks bright.
ROC Edition • Sherrie Clifford, Publisher
The Berlin Main Street Merchants monthly meeting has guest speakers, networking opportunities and support for the local business community.
By Giovanni Guido Staff Writer
The Berlin Mayor and Council held a work session for the first reading of the town’s proposed general fund budget for fiscal year 2026. If approved, this draft of the budget will be keeping the town’s tax rate the same at .8275 cents per $100 of assessed property value. Mayor Zack Tyndall stated that keeping the tax rate as is will bring about an additional value of $359,000 for FY26, which is roughly a 7% increase from FY25.
“I want to note that the $285,000 we’re going to gain, hopefully, this year in interest, that’s 80% of the revenue that we’re expected to see just from FY25 to FY26 by keeping the tax rate the same. It also equates to about 5.7 cents on the tax rate. So, … keep in mind that the work that we’re doing with the good financial practices is leading to about 5.7 cents worth of additional revenue,” Tyndall said.
Finance Director Natalie Saleh explained that the budgeting for the upcoming fiscal year has not been an easy process. The main reason for this was because of the town’s capital projects. In order to fund those projects, the town had to advance funds from the reserves to the capital projects.
“Most of the projects that we see on the general fund side and on the utility side are either a carried forward project that is funded from reserve or a new project which ultimately will be funded, potentially, from reserve,” Saleh said.
She then said that advancing money from reserves to capital projects will not be good for the town’s future.
“It’s not a good practice to advance money from reserves and fund future capital projects. We’ve worked really hard to build the reserve. That’s why we earn a good interest income and I would like to continue on the same path to
be strong so the general fund will be sustainable and in good financial health,” Saleh told the council.
A suggestion that Saleh made to the council was to implement an incremental increase on the tax rate so the town can remain financially secure.
“We don’t have an increase in service fees, local tax remains the same, we have no say on the sales tax and pretty much rely on the real estate taxes and revenue from the general fund. It is the reality and we have to deal with that, but I encourage you to rethink the past and think incremental increase in the tax rate so that will allow us to plan for a five- and 10-year capital plan in the future and be solid and be sustainable going forward,” Saleh said.
The council listened to Saleh’s suggestion but as of now the tax rate is being kept as is.
The town’s budget for this coming fiscal year equates to roughly $17.4 million, which is an increase of 22.45% from FY25. Tyndall said that the increase was, in large part, due to some of the capital projects that the town is undertaking this year.
The town hall renovations project has $2.5 million, the Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods Program received $1.16 million in grant funding, the new public works facility has $2.8 million in bond funding and there is $216,000 for permanent restrooms to be put in place at Stephen Decatur Park.
“So, when you adjust that out, it’s really not a 22% increase in a given year,” Tyndall said.
The mayor then stated that the budget contains a contingency of $53,000, which he said is “not perfect but it’s a really good place to be.” He added that because the budget reviewed by the council at the work session is in its draft form, the contingency would likely change as the budgeting process moves forward.
Berlin business owner and residents voice concerns about ‘unfortunate interactions’ with Tracks and Yaks employees
By Giovanni Guido Staff Writer
A concerned business owner and several residents of the Town of Berlin attended the most recent Mayor and Council Meeting to recount the unpleasant experiences they have endured from some of the employees of Tracks and Yaks, a tourist attraction that offers both rail bike tours and kayaking.
To help them, the council unanimously approved a motion to send a letter to Adam Forshee, owner of Tracks and Yaks, as well as the Maryland and Delaware Railroad Company, which will relay the information that the council was told at the April 14 council meeting.
Berlin Beer Company owner Adam Davis and his wife Lauren Georgevich were the first to address the council and describe Davis’ interactions with the Tracks and Yaks employees and how the tourist attraction has negatively impacted his business.
According to Davis, Tracks and Yaks has no bathroom on its
property, and the closest public bathroom is 2 miles away. Instead of taking the 2-mile trip, the employees have taken to using Berlin Beer Company’s bathrooms since it is much closer.
“They’re using my facilities for those needs. It is putting an unfortunate burden on myself, my business, my neighbors for them to occupy that space,” Davis said, adding that Occupational Safety and Health Administration laws state that there must be a bathroom within 10 minutes of a place of business.
Town Administrator Mary Bohlen pointed out that there are public restrooms on William Street which are closer than the other facilities, but, she admitted, are still a long distance from Tracks and Yaks.
Signs have been put up on the bathrooms which state they are for customer use only; however, those signs have not stopped the staff from using them.
Another issue Davis brought up is that the Tracks and Yaks business is not required to provide parking, which has led to the staff and
‘I
don’t feel like this business is doing a kind service to the town, and I feel like the town is valuing ecotourism above the day-to-day life and residency of its neighbors.’
-Adam Davis, owner of Berlin Beer Company
customers of that business to park in the Berlin Beer Company’s parking lot, driving away potential customers for Davis’ business.
Davis’ wife, Georgevich, elaborated on the parking issue, “They’re using our private parking lot … A lot of our rear parking spaces are being occupied by Tracks and Yaks customers. It’s obvious. They park, they go straight over and they’re out,” Georgevich said.
Berlin police officers have advised Davis to acquire signs to put in his business’ parking lot stating that only customers can park there. Initiative has already been taken and there should be signs posted in the parking lot by the end
of the week, Davis said.
Economic and Community Development Director Ivy Wells told Davis and Georgevich that the town has been dealing with this parking issue for many years and has gone through negotiations with Tracks and Yaks to move to another property or use some property as parking spaces for its business.
“We tried a variety of other places to get them to move and then it didn’t work out. After I heard that this was going on, I called Adam from Tracks and Yaks because we were working on another location, and then he told me that they leased property in West Ocean City because
See TRACKS AND YAKS page 6
TRACKS AND YAKS
Continued from page 5
they’re continuing with the kayaking portion of their business and everyone is going to be directed to West Ocean City to park there and then they’re going to shuttle them over to that location … That happens mid-May. They said it’s going to be another six to eight more weeks,” Wells said.
Georgevich was not convinced this would solve the problem Berlin Beer Company has been facing.
“I think that’s a fantastic pipe dream. The reality of that I really don’t see happening. If you’re coming from Bethany, if you’re coming from Rehoboth, you’re not going to drive to Ocean City to get bussed into Berlin to get bussed back to Ocean City. It’s just not realistic,” she said.
Davis then brought up concerns about how he was told by the Tracks and Yaks staff members that Tracks and Yaks has no employee designated as the business’ manager, despite the owner of the business living six hours away.
“I have their staff telling me that they have no manager on duty. So, the only person responsible for the management of that property lives six hours away … It’s doing a
disservice, with nobody responsible for their business occupation and operations in this town limit,” Davis said.
In the past, Davis has gotten in contact with the owner of Tracks and Yaks to notify him of these issues; however, he is no longer returning his calls.
The week before the council meeting, Davis decided to confront the staff members about their behavior. Although he did not give specific details on his interactions with the staff members, Davis said, “I’ve had some personal unfortunate interactions with the staff over there over this past week.” According to Georgevich, Tracks and Yaks staff members “verbally cussed” at Davis when he went to address some of his concerns with their behavior.
Davis continued, “I know there’s been some unfortunate impacts on the neighbors over there as well … I don’t feel like this business is doing a kind service to the town, and I feel like the town is valuing ecotourism above the day-to-day life and residency of its neighbors.”
To tell the council of the experiences the town residents in the area have faced from Tracks and Yaks employees, four Baker Street residents attended the meeting and addressed the council.
Sarah Simon relayed her experiences with some of the employees who park in the streets in her neighborhood to the council. According to her, many employees have urinated in Baker Street residents’ lawns due to no bathroom nearby, used residents’ hoses to fill their water bottles since they have no source of water and used drugs in their vehicles.
“(It) has been very jarring to me as a mother playing outside in my front yard blowing bubbles with my children, explaining why a vehicle has smoke pouring out the windows. That is just truly unfortunate,” Simon said.
She stated that she appreciated the effort that is being put into the West Ocean City shuttle plan to help with parking, but that does not solve the problems the nearby residents are facing.
Because they have no bathrooms or water sources, “they come into our yards and empty their bladders, use our hoses, use our trash cans. They use our street as their own personal access points, and it’s ridiculous and it’s unsafe for me and my kids to be out and about and a random person just popping up into my yard. It’s ridiculous,” Simon said.
Multiple council members suggested to the residents who have had people empty their bladders on
their lawns to report those people to the police. Vice President Dean Burrell told the residents that leaving those infractions unreported does not help their situation.
“You’re coming up here, expressing your concern and sharing your complaint, gives us no weight. But you cannot maintain a public nuisance. That is against the law. And by documenting your concern with the police department gives us standing to call those folks and explain to us why they are operating or allowing this public nuisance,” Burrell said.
Many of the council members sympathized with the residents’ and business owner’s situations and agreed that if the Tracks and Yaks business has become a public nuisance to the residential neighborhood, something should be done to prevent that going forward.
A motion was put forth to send out a letter to the owner of Tracks and Yaks and also to the Maryland and Delaware Railroad Company to notify them of what has been happening, and to see what can be done about it. The motion passed unanimously.
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CLASS WILL BE HELD AT: American Legion Post 166, 2308 Philadelphia Avenue, Ocean City, Md
Associates of the Vietnam Veterans of America is a non-profit organization established to support all veterans and their families. We work alongside the Vietnam Veterans of America to ensure that all veterans are treated fairly and have access to their Veterans benefits for themselves, their caregivers and their families. Membership is open to anyone, of any age, who wishes to support our veterans. For additional information, contact Marie Gilmore, President, Associates of Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 1091.
Phone – (410)726-2881 or Email – OPMarie@aol.com
Public trust requires full disclosure before the ballots are cast
As communities across the country prepare for local board elections, it’s more important than ever for voters to take a close look at who’s running and whether there are any potential conflicts of interest tied to each candidate. This is not about attacking anyone personally. It’s about ensuring that those who seek public responsibility are willing to be transparent and accountable.
When someone steps into a leadership role that impacts others whether it’s on a community board, association, or public committee, their decisions affect lives, property, policies and, in some cases, money. Voters have every right to ask whether a candidate has any financial interests, business ties or outside influence that could interfere with their service.
That scrutiny also applies to the people closest to them.
If a board member’s spouse or immediate family member is under federal investigation or if a case involving them has recently been reopened by the United States government, that becomes relevant. It’s not just a private matter. It raises real questions about distraction, influence and the potential for compromised judgment.
COMMENTARY
When it comes to project management and communication in Ocean Pines, consistency should not be optional. It’s not something that should be done right “most of the time” or “when convenient.” This community deserves a dependable, professional process, especially when it comes to meeting schedules, recordings and published minutes.
Let’s be clear: While the Ocean Pines Association operates as a nonprofit corporation and follows a corporate structure, it is still, at its core, a homeowner’s association, one of the largest in Maryland. This is our community. The decisions made during these meetings directly affect every homeowner, from property values and infrastructure to the overall quality of life in Ocean Pines.
That’s why consistent transparency and accountability aren’t optional, they’re essential.
One of the most basic expectations is that meeting schedules are kept accurate and up to date. If a meeting is scheduled on the community calendar, then residents should be able to rely on that information. And if a meeting is canceled, rescheduled or changed in any way, the calendar should be updated immediately, not hours later, not the next day. People arrange their time around these meetings. It’s simply respectful and professional to communicate those changes as soon as they happen.
Meeting minutes are another crucial part of this process. These are not just paperwork or formalities,
To be clear, this isn’t about guilt by association. Everyone is entitled to due process. But when someone asks for the community’s trust, that trust has to be earned through transparency. If there’s a serious legal situation involving someone close to a candidate or board member, the ethical response is to acknowledge it publicly.
In some cases, that might mean recusing themselves from discussions or votes that overlap with the issue. In more serious circumstances, it could mean stepping back from the role entirely until the matter is resolved.
The public shouldn’t have to investigate its own leaders just to find out the truth. That responsibility lies with the person running for office. Integrity starts before the ballots are printed, not after.
If we want leadership that puts community before self-interest, then we need to expect full honesty from the very beginning. That means asking hard questions, demanding clear answers and not settling for silence when accountability is required.
The role of public service is a privilege not a shield
Sherrie Clifford Publisher, ROC Edition
The ROC Staff
Sherrie Clifford Publisher/Editor 856-873-6029 sclifford@oceanpinesroc.com
they’re the written record of what was discussed and decided. Not everyone can attend every meeting, especially working residents or those who have other obligations. But everyone should have the opportunity to read the minutes or watch the video recording and stay informed. These documents should be posted promptly on the Ocean Pines Association website. If the meeting happened, then the information should be made available to all in a timely and consistent manner.
And that word “consistent” is really the key here.
A “hit or miss” approach to project updates, meeting uploads and calendar management doesn’t just look sloppy, it makes people
Staff Consultant News Editor editor@oceanpinesroc.com
Giovanni Guido Staff Writer gioguido56@gmail.com
Roger Marino Columnist marino.roger@aol.com
Lara Spaid Advertising Sales 410-443-4717 laraspaid@comcast.net
Ocean Pines ROC Inc. Ocean Pines Village Square 11042 Nicholas Lane, Suite B-203 Berlin, MD 21811 www.ROCedition.com
Sherrie Clifford, Publisher
Call for Ocean Pines Yacht Club Facebook page to restore access for blocked users
A group of Ocean Pines residents is urging the Ocean Pines Association to restore access to the Ocean Pines Yacht Club Facebook page for community members who were previously blocked from the platform.
According to residents active in local Facebook groups, several users were blocked from the page during a period of heightened public discourse following the 2022 hit-and-run death of 14-year-old Gavin Knupp, a local incident that drew widespread attention and sparked ongoing community controversy. At the time, the Matt Ortt Companies managed food and beverage operations at the Yacht Club. Some residents say they were blocked after posting comments or raising concerns related to the case and its perceived connections to individuals associated with the company. While users maintain that their comments were respectful and did not violate any community standards, they believe their removal was prompted by publicly addressing a highly sensitive issue.
The Yacht Club Facebook page serves as a key communication channel for event announcements, dining specials and updates related to the amenity, one of several community facilities managed by the Ocean Pines Association.
HIT-OR-MISS
Continued from page 8
feel left out or even suspicious. When things appear disorganized or incomplete, it’s easy for rumors to take root and for trust to erode. But when communication is handled professionally and updates are timely, it builds confidence even if residents don’t always agree with the decisions being made.
This isn’t a criticism, it’s a call to action. We can do better. And frankly, we must.
There is no reason why our association can’t run like a well-oiled
Homeowners who have been blocked argue that restricting access to the page limits their ability to receive information about an amenity funded, in part, by their HOA dues.
In recent weeks, calls for increased transparency have resurfaced as Touch of Italy officially assumed food and beverage operations at the Yacht Club, Clubhouse Bar and Grill and Beach Club, replacing the Matt Ortt Companies. Community members say that with a new vendor in place, effective communication is more important than ever—not only for the benefit of residents, but also for the success of the business.
Touch of Italy, a well-known regional brand with locations across the Delmarva Peninsula, is expected to bring elevated service and menu offerings to Ocean Pines’ hospitality venues. The Facebook page is one of the most visible and frequently accessed platforms used to promote specials, announce entertainment and engage both year-round residents and seasonal visitors. Residents argue that blocking potential patrons from accessing this content limits the vendor’s ability to market effectively and build a customer base within the community.
Those currently restricted from the page include homeowners who frequently dine at Ocean Pines venues and would otherwise be regular supporters of Touch of Italy’s offerings. Without access to timely updates, event announcements or menus, these residents say they are left out of the loop and unable to fully participate in the dining and entertainment experience.
The Ocean Pines Association operates as a nonprofit corporation and is one of the largest homeowner’s associations in Maryland. Its social media platforms are viewed by many as essential tools for sharing community-related news
and promoting events tied to Association amenities.
With the transition to Touch of Italy now underway, many view this as a turning point for Ocean Pines’ hospitality venues and an opportunity to reset communication policies in a way that supports both residents and business partners. Ensuring equal access to information, they say, will not only help the community move forward, but also provide the best possible environment for these amenities to thrive.
Sherrie Clifford Publisher, ROC Edition
machine when it comes to communication and project oversight. We have the tools. We have the platforms. Now we just need the commitment to follow through and treat communication as a top priority, not a secondary task.
Let’s move forward with a renewed sense of responsibility. Ocean Pines deserves a consistent, transparent system that works for all residents. Let’s make that the standard—because our community is worth it.
Sherrie Clifford Publisher, ROC Edition
STANDING Room Only
By Roger Marino
Historians tell us a lot has happened during the past ninety years. And what do we have to show for it?
In 1935, young Americans were joyfully playing with Japanese-made trucks, fire engines, military toys and soldiers made of indestructible metal and functioning parts with workable wheels.
World War II fell on America alongside the Japanese bombs on the Pearl Harbor Naval Fleet in Hawaii, sinking American military ships, killing many American sailors and beginning a four-year horror of pain and losses on both sides of the Pacific, including their partners in Germany.
The 1939-1945 Japanese war ended with the Atomic Bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the death of thousands of Japanese military and civilians and a follow-up handshake surrender on the deck of an American military warship.
Today, some of the highest paid athletes in American professional sports are hired from grassy playing fields in Japan and Germany.
Some of the top medical engineers, mechanical engineers and scientific leaders of our businesses, government agencies and products
ROC Edition is pleased to accept obituaries from our readers.
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are of Japanese and German origin.
A country with no black professional athletes, America was shocked when in 1947 Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier, becoming the first black player in professional baseball and a star on the former Brooklyn Dodgers baseball club. We have now opened our arms and pocket books to all who compete on a high level and play by the rules.
Germany is now a strong U.S. ally, while Japan has reportedly stopped producing plastic toy fire engines because of environmental concerns about recycling.
In 1947, the United States and Soviets took the spotlight in Cold War politics. A dangerous game of ideological and geopolitical hideand-seek with the weapons between the two powerhouses. A game played on the Olympic ice rink, in the boardrooms and viewed verbally for years on television screens across the continents. And we have Soviet defectors competing in our outdoor and indoor fields of play.
As our American genius created technological developments with
space exploration, the Hubble Space telescope and more, we continued to struggle with the Civil Rights movement and demonstrations in our cities and towns.
The assassinations of both Martin Luther King Jr. and President John F. Kennedy, along with the shooting of President Ronald Reagan and other demonstrations in the streets.
Since the days of Rosie the Riveter, the iconic female figure who represented the labor factory worker building ships and airplanes during World War II, women have been demonstrating for their rightful place as equal to that of men.
And the marching and chanting in the streets grew to a more melodious tone.
Then the Vietnam War and the youth of this country began their disagreement with the government and its position to declare this volatile conflict an all-out war. Again, the marching and singing became louder. Rights for women, men and babies; rights for athletes, male and female; economic rights; civil rights and some of the rights still on the minds and hearts of Americans now.
Today, America’s streets and university campuses are overflowing with young and old students and citizens chanting and shouting for rights.
And we are staving off another war possibility.
And the street-beat goes on with a new song added on the scene. “Pray, Pray for our 401K.”
Today, the World Streets, the Olympics, the Super Bowl, tennis championship, golf tournaments, basketball tournaments, hockey games, lacrosse tournaments and soccer tournaments continue in a friendly competitive atmosphere, bringing hundreds of millions of dollars to the competitors, states and communities hosting the events — regardless of where they are played, regardless of race or national origin.
Now, a Russian-born hockey player holds the National Hockey record for the most goals scored in the National Hockey League. Both countries and ice hockey fans throughout the world cheering in unison for that athletic achievement.
How do I know about these events and happenings that occurred a monstrous 90 years ago? Well, I was born March 30, 1935 and celebrated my 90th birthday two weeks ago on the calm streets of Delmarva. More strategically, in a Berlin restaurant with 14 family members. The only shouting and demonstrations were perpetrated by my kin who enjoyed the meal and celebration. Marching in the streets? I am of the age that my body tells me that such activity is best left to others on holiday celebrations. It is a privilege to reach this age and I don’t want to spoil it!
As a writer who covered much that has happened in the past 90 years, let us lift a glass to hopeful cheers that we all get better with age.
ROC Life
By Sherrie Clifford ROC Edition Publisher
Just minutes from downtown Berlin and a short drive from Ocean City, Windmill Creek Vineyard & Winery offers a one-of-a-kind destination that blends history, handcrafted wine and the charm of Maryland’s Eastern Shore. The 12.5-acre estate is home to the 1858 Mariner House, a historic farmhouse surrounded by wildflowers, open fields and peaceful garden spaces that invite guests to sip, dine and unwind.
The farmhouse at the center of the winery was built in 1858 by Lemuel Showell II as a wedding gift for his son, Lemuel Showell III.
Showell III would go on to help found Ocean City and serve as president of the Pocomoke and Wicomico Railroad, which played a key role in bringing early tourism to the coast. The home remained with the Showell family until 1924, when it was purchased by Edwin Mariner. It has been in the Mariner family ever since.
Barry Mariner, who spent much of his childhood visiting his grandparents Ed and Gertrude Mariner on the farm, inherited the property in 2015. Together with his wife Jeannie and daughter Brittany, the family began restoring the home and repurposing the land with care and vision. After three and a half
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ROC Edition • Sherrie Clifford, Publisher
The Mariner family has transformed the 1858 farmhouse and surrounding grounds into a destination for wine, food and live entertainment.
WINDMILL CREEK
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years of renovations, they opened Windmill Creek Vineyard & Winery in 2018. Now in its seventh season, the winery remains a family-run operation that honors its past while creating new memories for locals and visitors alike.
Due to the home’s historic status, a commercial kitchen could not be installed inside. Instead, the Mariners invested in a new food truck, now referred to as the Outdoor Kitchen, designed to bring an elevated dining experience to the estate grounds. The Outdoor Kitchen is set to open April 23 and will be led by Chef Michael Rendell, who was named Ocean City’s Chef of the Year in 2018.
The dining experience at Windmill Creek features farm-to-table dishes inspired by local ingredients, complementing the wide selection of handcrafted wines. Brittany Mariner, who studied enology and viticulture in college, manages wine production and vineyard operations. Building on a family tradition that dates back to her great-grandparents’ winemaking hobby, Brittany has helped shape a wine list that includes dry reds, bright whites, fruit wines and rotating seasonal blends.
Guests can enjoy wine by the glass, bottle or tasting flight, along with locally brewed beer and specialty sangrias. The historic Mariner House now serves as a central space for dining, wine sales and live entertainment. Guests are encouraged to explore the grounds, relax in shaded seating areas or gather around the bonfire during special events. Outside food and alcohol are not permitted, a policy that supports the estate’s curated culinary and beverage offerings.
Windmill Creek also features a year-round calendar of events, including live music by local bands during warm months, solo and duo artists indoors in the winter, paintand-sip nights, private events and seasonal favorites like heated igloo dining and bonfire gatherings.
Reservations for indoor dining are encouraged, especially during weekends and special events. As the winery continues to grow, the Mariner family remains dedicated to providing a space that celebrates community, craftsmanship and the slower pace of rural life.
Windmill Creek Vineyard & Winery is located at 11206 Worcester Highway, Berlin, Maryland 21811. For reservations or more information, call 410-251-6122 or visit windmillcreekvineyard.com
ROC Edition • Sherrie Clifford, Publisher With its original architecture and enduring charm, the historic farmhouse offers guests a unique glimpse into the past.
Berlin celebrates Easter and spring with Bonnet Parade, egg hunt, games and more on April 19
By Giovanni Guido Staff Writer
To celebrate Easter and the season of spring, the Berlin Chamber of Commerce is hosting its annual Berlin Spring Celebration on Saturday, April 19 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Each year this event brings in roughly 2,000 people, according to Allison Early, the Economic and Community Development Administrative Assistant for the Town of Berlin.
Early stated that the chamber has been hosting this event for many years as a way to bring residents out and tourists in.
“They just wanted to … do something for the kids. That’s really our main focus a lot of the time. It’s a community celebration of spring and Easter and warmer weather and everybody’s been stuck inside and now they can start doing stuff outside,” Early told a ROC Edition reporter.
The event will take place in downtown Berlin and will host a variety of different attractions, including breakfast with the
Easter Bunny, Bonnet Parade and the Easter egg hunt.
The festivities for the day begin with breakfast with the Easter Bunny at the Berlin Fire Company. The breakfast starts at 8 a.m. and lasts until 9:45 a.m. An adult must pay $10 to attend and $6 for a child to attend.
Shortly thereafter, families can make their way to World of Toys for the beginning of the Bonnet Parade at 10 a.m. Families are encouraged to march in the parade wearing their own homemade bonnets. The parade-goers will march their way to the corner of Pitts and Main Streets where they will come upon a small stage. A contest will then be held where the people who created their own bonnets can have the chance to win a prize.
There will then be an Easter egg hunt on the lawn of the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum, starting at 11 a.m. Participants are asked to pay close attention to how the lawn is divided into different zones based on children’s age groups. The age group zones consist of ages 0-3, 4-6 and 7 or older.
Throughout the day there will also be games, crafts and face painting offered by local businesses. As an added bonus, the amusement park Jolly Roger has donated prizes which can be won at the games.
“The Berlin Chamber of Commerce will put out to their members that they can host a game on the street and … Jolly Roger supplies all the stuffed animals that they give away as prizes for these games,” Early said.
Saltwater Mini Farm, Lollipop the Clown, Grambunny and Shake it Up Jam performances are other activities that families can enjoy at this annual event. There will also be food vendors throughout the downtown area for families to eat at as they work their way through the different festivities.
For more information on the events featured this year, visit https://berlinchamber.org/event/ spring-celebration/
Berlin’s Vintage & Vinyl Berlin’s Vintage & Vinyl
The morning of April 5th started off a bit rainy but it didn’t stop the community turn out. While the band entertained the crowd, vendors displayed unique upcycled merchandise, original art, vintage books and records, pottery, home decor, antique collectibles and so much more.
ROC Edition photos by Giovanni Guido
