June 15, 2025
Referendum will decide future of South Fire Station in Ocean Pines
Voters to consider $3.4 million project as part of 2025 Board of Directors election
By Sherrie Clifford ROC Edition Publisher
Ocean Pines Association (OPA) members will vote this summer on whether to authorize the construction of a new South Fire Station to replace the current facility located at 911 Ocean Parkway.
The referendum question will be included in the 2025 Board of Directors election ballot. If approved, it would authorize the OPA board and administration to proceed with the design and construction of a replacement facility at a target cost of up to $3.4 million, with a possible variance of up to 10%.
The current South Fire Station was built in 1981. According to
OPA and the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department (OPVFD), the facility no longer meets modern standards for safety, accessibility or operational efficiency. Officials have identified deficiencies in the building’s structure, layout, energy systems and compliance with National Fire Protection Association and Americans with Disabilities Act standards.
The referendum question reads as follows:
“Do you authorize the Ocean Pines Association’s Board of Directors and Administration to proceed with the construction of a new South Fire Station at a target cost to OPA, Inc. of up to $3.4 million, with a possible cost variance of up
OPA to hold public hearing on fire station referendum
OPA to hold public hearing on June 27 at South Fire Station to discuss $3.4 million replacement proposal of the station ahead of
By Sherrie Clifford ROC Edition Publisher
Ocean Pines Association (OPA) will hold a public hearing at 2 p.m. Friday, June 27, at the South Fire Station, located at 911 Ocean Parkway. The hearing is part of the formal process required under
Section 4.08(a) of the OPA By-Laws to discuss a referendum question being placed on this year’s Board of Directors election ballot.
The referendum asks whether OPA members authorize the board and administration to move forward with the construction of a new South
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to ten percent (10%)?”
If approved, the new station would be built on the same footprint as the current one. The project is intended to address current deficiencies while providing a more functional facility. The existing station includes a bunkroom designed for one person that now houses four. Circulation challenges, mold, gas line concerns and drainage issues have also been cited as reasons for replacement.
In July 2024, the OPA board unanimously approved a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the OPVFD. The MOU outlines provisions for the construction project, fire and emergency medical service responsibilities and
long-term ownership and maintenance of the facility.
Under the agreement, the land on which the station sits will remain under the ownership of the OPVFD. Once construction is complete, ownership of the new building and associated improvements will transfer to OPA. The fire department will continue to cover property taxes, maintenance and repair responsibilities. The arrangement is expected to add value to OPA’s assets while maintaining operational independence for the fire department.
The new MOU replaces previous agreements dating back to the 1970s, which had become layered with multiple addendums over time.
See REFERENDUM page 2
OPA candidate forum set for June 27; four candidates to appear, public invited to participate
The Ocean Pines Elections Committee will host a public forum for candidates in the 2025 Board of Directors election on Friday, June 27 at 5 p.m. at the Clubhouse Meeting Room, 100 Clubhouse Drive, Ocean Pines.
All four certified candidates are expected to participate. In ballot order, the candidates are Stuart Lakernick, Steve Jacobs, Monica Rakowski and Amy Peck.
The forum provides an opportunity for Ocean Pines homeowners to hear directly from those seeking a seat on the board. Candidates will respond to questions related to governance, public safety, fiscal responsibility, infrastructure and other issues affecting the community.
The Elections Committee is accepting questions from residents ahead of the forum. Submissions
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Amy Peck, the only non-incumbent in this year’s board race, is a fulltime Ocean Pines resident and former appointed director. She cited independent decision-making, extensive research and a strong understanding of the association’s Governing Documents as key strengths in her candidacy.
ROC Edition • Submitted
ROC Edition • Sherrie Clifford, Publisher
referendum vote.
Berlin council approve budget for FY26, property tax rate remains flat
By Giovanni Guido Staff Writer
At their latest meeting, the Berlin Town Council officially passed the town’s budget for fiscal year 2026. The approved budget keeps the property tax rate flat at $0.8275 per $100 of assessed value.
Home Improvements
RENOVATIONS
Overall the budget’s general fund is nearly $17.4 million, and the electric fund is roughly $8.8 million. Compared to last year, there is a 21.95% increase for the general fund and a 3.96% increase for the electric fund.
Mayor Zack Tyndall expressed his approval of the proposed budget and thanked the town staff for their work on it.
“The budget’s been a solid work by all the departments, and I want to
REFERENDUM
Continued from page 1
The revised document is intended to simplify and clarify the roles and expectations of both organizations going forward.
As part of the standard process outlined in OPA’s governing documents, a public hearing will be held to provide more information about the proposed project. The hearing is scheduled for Friday, June 27, 2025, at 2 p.m., at the current South Fire Station. During the meeting, members of the community will have the opportunity to learn more about the proposal, ask questions and hear directly from officials involved in the
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Fire Station at a target cost of up to $3.4 million, with a possible cost variance of up to 10%.
This hearing will provide residents with an opportunity to hear directly from OPA officials, ask questions and review details about the proposed project before casting their votes. An informational document outlining the scope of the plan, cost estimates and facility needs will also be made available.
Community members are strongly encouraged to attend, regardless of whether they have already formed an opinion on the project. Public hearings are a critical part of HOA governance, ensuring that decisions are not made behind closed doors
ROC Edition • Town of Berlin, Maryland Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall
thank everyone … that’s worked on the budget. I thank my colleagues up here on the council. I think it’s solid. We’ve kept the tax rate the same, we’ve invested in some significant projects for FY26 and all around I think it’s a pretty good package,” Tyndall said.
planning and negotiations.
Ballots for the referendum will be mailed with the 2025 board election package. Only property owners in good standing will be eligible to vote. Referendum results will be certified and announced according to OPA’s election procedures.
Additional information about the MOU and the project is available on the official Ocean Pines Association website. A video recording of the July 12, 2024 board meeting, during which the MOU was approved, is also publicly available online.
To view the new MOU, visit https://tinyurl.com/5ca57apa
and that residents have a voice in shaping major capital investments. The current South Fire Station was built in 1981 and has been flagged by the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department and the board as being outdated, undersized and noncompliant with modern building and safety codes. The proposed replacement would be constructed on the same footprint and, if approved, ownership of the building would transfer to OPA upon completion.
Ballots for the referendum will be included in the 2025 Board of Directors election package. The June 27 hearing serves as the primary opportunity for homeowners to ask questions and engage in an open discussion before voting begins.
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can be emailed to elections@oceanpines.org and may be selected and asked during the event.
For those unable to attend in person, the forum will be streamed live via Microsoft Teams. The remote viewing link is available on the OPA website.
This year’s election will determine three open board seats. Ballots and
Stuart Lakernick - Over the past year, I’ve had the honor of serving as President of our association, working to strengthen our community while preserving its unique character. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together—from the construction of our Veterans Memorial to key beautification efforts that have enhanced the look and feel of our shared spaces.
Monica Rakowski - My name is Monica Rakowski, I have served as the Ocean Pines Treasurer on the Board of Directors for the past three years. As a Professional Services consultant I provide accounting practices, project management, implementation and training for
We’ve made major infrastructure improvements, including the development of the new racquet center— all while keeping assessments low and budgets balanced. We’ve also increased public safety by adding new police officers to our force, ensuring quicker response times and greater community presence.
Beautification has been a key focus—improving landscaping, signage, and common areas to make our neighborhood more inviting and enjoyable for all. These improvements reflect pride in where we live and contribute to property values and community spirit.
Looking ahead, my top priority is getting shovels in the ground for the much-needed Southside Firehouse. I bring experience, a steady hand, and a strong vision for continued progress.
I respectfully ask for your vote so we can continue building on our momentum. Together, we can keep our community safe, beautiful, and thriving.
Fortune 500 companies. Skills I developed in my professional life allow me to apply them to the job as a director.
I love everything about Ocean Pines. The people, the amenities, and the natural environment that surrounds us. I have volunteered since I was fourteen years old. Volunteering to run for a director position made sense for me.
If re-elected Ocean Pines finances will remain a top priority for me. As a member of the board I will ensure we have enough reserves to address road issues, drainage and any other crucial projects that may arise. I promise to fully support the renovation of the Southside Firehouse. Safety, property values and maintaining the beautification of Ocean Pines are issues that I will without fail support.
official election materials will be mailed to eligible property owners in July Key election dates include: voter eligibility deadline—Saturday, July 5; ballot deadline—Wednesday, August 6, by noon; ballots counted and vote totals announced—Friday, August 8; annual meeting—Saturday, August 9, at 9 a.m.
For all questions related to the election or forum, email elections@oceanpines.org.
Candidate bios, as submitted to the Elections Committee, are reprinted below in full and unedited.
Steve Jacobs - I am currently completing my first 3-year term on the Ocean Pines Board of Directors. I am a member of Temple Bat Yam, Berlin, Maryland. Previously I was a member of the Ocean Pines By-Laws and Resolutions Advisory Committee and the Golf Advisory Committee. Former President of the Hardings Run Homeowners Association (3 years).
Amy Peck - I’m Amy Peck, and Ocean Pines has been my cherished home for 23 years. I raised my sons here, worked for OPA, volunteered extensively, and now enjoy retirement. This bond fuels my commitment to preserving our legacy and ensuring Ocean Pines evolves to benefit every resident.
I’m ready to serve from day one, drawing on my extensive
Served for three years on the East County Advisory Board (2 years as Chair) in Montgomery County.
I have a BS Degree in Political Science from The American University, Washington D. C. and a J. D. Degree from the Catholic University of America also in Washington, D. C. Admitted to the Maryland and District of Columbia Bar, now retired.
Employed for approximately 9 years for Republican and Democratic members of the U. S. House of Representatives, worked for 2 trade associations as Vice President, Government Relations. Worked for two small private, general practice law firms. Employed by the Attorney General of Maryland, assigned to the Department of Human Resources in Howard County to litigate child support cases.
understanding of Ocean Pines’ history and its governing documents. My background as a paralegal equips me to research issues and rigorously evaluate projects for cost-effectiveness and community benefit, while my experience as a teacher has refined my active listening, empathy, and clear communication skills. These tools are essential for engaging with diverse homeowners, addressing concerns, and fostering consensus.
I’m running for the Board because I believe fiscal responsibility and a focus on essential needs must guide our decisions. Instead of chasing flashy projects, I will prioritize maintaining infrastructure, ensuring safety, and preserving our community’s resources and natural beauty. I am here to listen, serve, and advocate for every resident in Ocean Pines.
Together, let’s build on the strong foundation laid by our Founders to create a future that honors our past while meeting today’s needs.
I’d be honored to earn your vote.
STEVE JACOBS
MONICA RAKOWSKI AMY PECK
Worcester County approves FY26 budget by slim margin, prioritizes property tax rate decrease over teacher pay
By Giovanni Guido Staff Writer
After some alterations were made to the original draft, the Worcester County Commissioners approved the county’s fiscal year 2026 budget. Some of the changes were points of contention, which resulted in the budget narrowly passing, with a 4-3 vote in favor. One major modification was the lowering of the property tax rate by 3 cents, which was made possible with a lower increase in county teacher salaries. Many of the adjustments, including the tax decrease, were made after the commissioners’ May 28 Budget Work Session.
Per the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future law, originally passed in 2021, the state mandates the starting salary for a teacher to be a minimum of $60,000. Every school within the state must have this salary increase implemented by July 1, 2026.
The county’s current salary for first-year teachers is $52,789. In order to meet the mandated
threshold, a proposal was made by the county’s teachers to increase starting teacher salaries by $4,000 this coming fiscal year and again in the following fiscal year.
Instead of that, the budget that was passed on June 3 does not make it clear how much teachers’ salaries will be increased. This budget features a $2,500 cost of living adjustment and a one-step increase for all eligible county employees, which does include teachers. However, the Worcester County Board of Education decides the teacher’s salaries within the confines of the Board of Education budget that is approved. The board requested $6,024,439 for its salary budget but was only given $4,860,341. This, of course, means the salary increases will be lower than what was originally proposed.
Commissioner Joseph Mitrecic voiced his opposition to the altered budget due to the underfunding of county teachers.
“You know, starting state teacher salary has to go up $5,500 next year. Period. There’s nothing that we can
‘You know, starting state teacher salary has to go up $5,500 next year. Period. There’s nothing that we can do about that; the state mandates that … This is financially irresponsible.’
-Commissioner Joseph Mitrecic
do about that; the state mandates that … This is financially irresponsible,” Mitrecic said during the June 3 County Commissioners Meeting.
The majority of the commissioners voted for this lower salary budget because of the property tax decrease. Originally, the tax decrease was supposed to be in the income tax, but the county’s income tax rate is already as low as it is allowed to be by state law, so the proposed budget decreased the property tax instead. This was made possible with a lower increase in the teachers’ salaries.
“How can we continue to lower the tax rate on the backs of our employees? How can we do this? And what are we looking at next year if we lower it 3 cents this year? Is it going to go up 5 cents next year? … I can’t ever even dream of doing this on the backs of our employees,” Mitrecic said.
A critique on the general fund budget was made, directed at the refusal to fully fund certain municipalities in the county, despite having nearly $3 million in surplus. Police officials from Ocean City made a one-time request for funding to support their officers. Snow Hill
requested seed funding for multiple projects. Both of these requests were not awarded.
Before the general fund budget was officially passed, Mitrecic tried to get his fellow commissioners to reconsider passing the former draft of the budget with proper funding for the county’s municipalities.
“I think that we really need to consider funding our municipalities at the requested level. The majority of our constituency live in those municipalities. They are what keep the county going,” Mitrecic said.
He then made a motion to approve the general fund budget as it was before the alterations were made, with what he believed to be suitable funding toward municipalities and teachers. The motion failed to receive the majority, with a 3-4 vote. Commissioner Jim Bunting then moved for the approval of the new, altered budget with the property tax decrease, which received the majority vote of the governing body, with a 4-3 vote. Shortly after, the altered Board of Education budget was brought forward and approved by the same margin.
Clarity on rules and procedures lacking as Ocean Pines heads into board election
By Sherrie Clifford ROC Edition Publisher
As HOA election season ramps up, some residents are voicing concerns not just about the candidates, but about the process itself. Recent years have seen a growing number of procedural missteps, vendor changes and disputed communications factors that have led to confusion and frustration among voters in communities across the country, including Ocean Pines.
This year is no exception. In Ocean Pines, questions have emerged regarding communication from the Elections Committee to both candidates and the public. Some candidates report receiving inconsistent or incomplete instructions ahead of the planned election forum. One candidate said they had to send multiple emails to confirm the forum start time, first listed vaguely, before finally learning it begins at 5 p.m.
Additional confusion involved unclear guidance on whether notes would be permitted. While the committee has since stated that notes
are not allowed during the forum, they have yet to answer a related question from another candidate about whether they can take notes during the event. Uncertainty has also surrounded changes to the questioning format, including a new policy where candidates may now be questioned by other candidates in ballot order, rather than the previous one-question-per-candidate structure.
Some candidates are concerned that this new setup could result in one candidate receiving multiple questions from all opponents, without equal time distribution. Further ambiguity surrounds the role of the Elections Committee itself, specifically whether it will ask the same question to all candidates or unique questions to each. Questions submitted by property owners will also be asked, reportedly selected at random, but the process for that selection remains unclear.
Confusion has also surfaced around campaign signage rules. Residents and candidates have received conflicting guidance on how many election signs are permitted per lot,
whether it’s one sign total, one sign per candidate or another interpretation entirely. There have also been questions about whether signs are allowed in rear yards that face the golf course or water, with no clear, published policy readily available. Some have asked who is making these determinations and whether inconsistent enforcement reflects broader procedural gaps within the election process.
For voters, staying informed may be the best tool available. Residents are encouraged to review election materials carefully, attend open meetings and ask questions about procedures, not just candidates.
As ballots are prepared and mailed in the coming weeks, many are watching not only who is running, but how the system operates behind the scenes.
Berlin council edits and discusses the future of current contracts with fire company and EMS
By Giovanni Guido Staff Writer
The Town of Berlin’s contracts between both the Berlin Fire Company and Berlin Emergency Medical Services (EMS) were reviewed and edited by the Mayor and Council at their latest meeting. During this review process, the governing body considered different ideas proposed by the council members that could decide the future of the contracts.
There were two edits that were proposed and passed by the council; one in each contract. The edit made in the fire company contract was the cutting of line item two under the second section, which stated, “The fire company has requested $150,000 annually for fire and rescue capital and the town advises they are unable to fulfill this request.” The edit in the EMS contract resides in line item two of the contract’s second section. This edit saw the cutting of the last sentence, which stated, “The annual request was $75,000.” This line item, in its entirety, declared that EMS will receive $15,000 annually for ambulance replacement, and the final sentence that was cut adds that the original request was $75,000 annually.
Town Administrator Mary Bohlen clarified that these changes to the two documents would not affect the “terms of the contract.” She elaborated, “It doesn’t change how much they’re getting paid or what their dates of service are.”
This discussion was brought up during the June 9 meeting because some of the council members expressed an interest in simplifying the contracts, which they felt were over complicated.
Councilman Jack Orris was one of the members that expressed discontent with the current documents. The councilman even conveyed his opinion that simplifying it would not solve the problems but getting rid of the documents altogether could. He admitted, however, that there should probably be something in writing.
“I’m just unsure that we need the contract at all for both fire and EMS, but recognizing that that is just my opinion and something probably should be in writing, I respect that. I do have a concern with … taking this and just simplifying it if we’re still going to have to review and sign off on it every year,” Orris said.
In place of the simplifying solution, Orris suggested to his fellow town officials a standardized contract that would apply to all organizations and vendors that receive funding from the town, as the fire and EMS departments do. This standardized contract would include, Orris specified, things like “a memorandum of agreement, stipulations of what parties are supposed to do, exit strategies for both parties, a time frame for regular review.”
Town Attorney David Gaskill addressed Orris’ proposition of a standardized contract, stating that this would only complicate things more.
“I don’t see how you can do a one-size-fits-all contract for BFC and EMS and any other group we give money to because these are unique organizations,” Gaskill said.
After the previous meeting when the contracts were discussed, Councilman Jay Knerr also stated that he would like to get rid of the contracts entirely. However, he too realized that it was important to have some sort of contract to specify how much of the taxpayers’ money is going toward the two departments. So, instead of abolishing the two documents, Knerr undertook the task of drafting shortened versions of the two contracts.
“It just accomplishes what we need, gets rid of a lot of the excess verbiage and it’s a year-to-year agreement. It would be signed by the town and the fire company, but it’s crystal clear without the excess nonsense,” Knerr said.
Another suggestion on how to handle the situation was made by Vice President Dean Burrell. He proposed that the town set up a financial “pass through” to the county, meaning the funds of the
fire and EMS departments that come from the town’s taxpayers would be given to the county. This would then put the responsibility of distributing those funds on the county.
“I do believe having a pass through from the Town of Berlin to the county to the Berlin Fire Department would really clean things up and put us, I’m talking about the Town of Berlin, in a more positive situation going forward,” Burrell said.
The town mayor, Zack Tyndall, pointed out that, throughout the state of Maryland, it is rare to see municipalities manage the funding of their respective fire and EMS departments. It is typically handled by the counties, Tyndall said.
Given the fact this fiscal year is coming to an end, however, Councilman Steve Green felt that all the council’s proposed ideas should be considered for the next fiscal year. Green instead made a motion to edit out the two sentences the council previously discussed, which they agreed were unnecessary.
Approval of grant funding applications continue the progress of Berlin’s skate park initiative
By Giovanni Guido Staff Writer
Two applications for grant funding were approved by the Berlin Mayor and Council for the future skate park in Heron Park. This project has been underway since 2022 and is being undertaken by the town in partnership with the local nonprofit, We Heart Berlin.
The first of the two applications is for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) grant, and the second is for the Community Parks and Playgrounds (CPP) Program grant. Both of these grants, if awarded, will fund the development of the skate park project.
In order to be eligible to receive funding through the LWCF federal grant, the applicant must procure a 50% non-federal match of the amount they requested. This means that, if an applicant is asking for $1 million, they must first raise $500,000 from non-federal sources to be able to receive the remaining 50% through the grant program.
Special Projects Administrator Kate Daub explained that this is where the second grant comes in.
“If all goes as planned, fingers crossed, the plan is to, hopefully, use the Community Parks and Playgrounds funding as the match for the Land and Water Conservation Fund grant,” Daub said.
The town and We Heart Berlin decided to go about the funding process in this manner because the town is unfamiliar with the LWCF grant but has had experience with the other grant.
The only problem with this plan is that, based on the town’s past experience with this grant, it is doubtful that the town will be awarded any more than $250,000, which would not fulfill the 50% match of the other grant.
An estimate of the total cost of the project amounted to $975,000, so if the town asks for this amount from the LWCF grant, it must procure $487,500 for the match. It should be noted, however, that the amount the town and the nonprofit intend to ask for from the LWCF grant is not yet known.
If the town is unable to receive 50% of the LWCF sum through the CPP grant, We Heart Berlin will instead try to raise funding to match the first grant.
“Should we not receive Community Parks and Playgrounds, We Heart Berlin is committed to meeting
ROC Edition • Submitted Berlin Mayor and Council approve two grant funding applications for a proposed skate park in Heron Park, a project pursued in partnership with local nonprofit We Heart Berlin and targeted for construction in 2027.
that match should we be fortunate enough to receive the Land and Water Conservation Fund grant,” Daub said.
If this occurs, the nonprofit would acquire funding through local sources.
Another option for this project’s funding is to implement a phased approach to the grant funding process. The specific number was not specified, but the process would be split into multiple phases. For example, phase one would be the site preparation portion of the project, which would cost roughly $250,000. Phase two of the project would be all the concrete work, which amounts to $500,000. By implementing this phased approach, the funding process would be far more manageable.
The founder of the nonprofit, Tony Weeg, stated how this approach would be a great way to get support from local investors.
“Once we get the ball rolling with grants and with funding, … what I’ve been told is ‘once we see that you’re real, we’re going to show you that we’re real’ … We just got to get
to a certain point with some federal and state grant funding and/or some other private funding. Once we get to that point, others are going to jump on board pretty fast,” Weeg said.
The town intends to apply for both of these grants for fiscal year 2027, which is roughly when construction for the 14,000- to 16,000-square-foot skate park is set to begin.
Fair HOA elections require a firewall between the board and the elections administrators
In many homeowners associations, especially those managing larger budgets or complex governing structures, an Elections Committee plays a central role in maintaining fair and transparent board elections. This committee is typically tasked with overseeing the nomination process, verifying candidate eligibility, coordinating with outside election vendors and ensuring compliance with the association’s bylaws and applicable laws. While not all HOAs formally establish such a committee, those that do are following a good practice: separating the administration of elections from the board members seeking to retain power. Without that separation, trust in the process erodes, and the community risks the perception or reality of internal influence over the outcome.
Unfortunately, in many HOAs that line is not just blurred. It’s been quietly erased.
It begins with what looks like convenience: a sitting board majority that installs or influences the appointment of committee members tasked with running the very election that could determine their future control. But what starts as a subtle advantage becomes a systemic imbalance. When those responsible for managing a fair and impartial election process are aligned, socially or politically, with those seeking to retain power, integrity becomes a casualty. The result is not just a flawed process; it’s a betrayal of community trust.
The Elections Committee is not an extension of the board. It does not serve at the pleasure of any board majority. Its duty is to the members, all members of the association. That duty includes ensuring that elections are fair, secure, timely and free from the perception of manipulation or favoritism. That means every decision, from selecting an election vendor to how ballots are mailed and counted to how candidate information is shared, must be handled with strict independence and transparency.
When a Board of Directors chooses to insert itself into these processes, whether directly or through friendly committee appointments, it compromises that independence. It fosters a climate where conflicts of interest go unacknowledged, where challenges to the process are dismissed and where the outcome of an election may be viewed with suspicion, regardless of its legitimacy.
This is not theoretical. Across the country, HOAs have faced lawsuits, overturned elections and community unrest because they failed to protect the electoral process from internal influence. In some cases, associations were forced to rerun elections or appoint independent overseers at additional cost, all because the public perception of fairness had been destroyed.
The risk grows every time a board member hand-picks a committee volunteer or when those running elections share social outings, private messages or drinks with those on the ballot. It grows when vendor decisions appear to favor loyalty over cost-effectiveness or impartiality. It grows when the Elections Committee’s recommendations are altered, blocked or overridden without explanation or worse, when no recommendations are made at all because silence has replaced scrutiny.
No election system is perfect. But the best ones are grounded in transparency, free of favoritism and safeguarded by people who understand that their loyalty is not to a faction; it’s to the process itself.
It’s time to restore that understanding. In every HOA, the Elections Committee must be structurally and culturally independent. Board members should not have the ability to influence who sits on the committee, who runs the elections or how the votes are handled. Vendor contracts must be reviewed publicly and without input from anyone on the ballot. And once elected, board members must recuse themselves from any procedural changes affecting future elections.
Because in governance, as in life, it’s not just what’s legal; it’s what’s ethical. And when there are people controlling the outcome, the community loses.
Sherrie Clifford Publisher, ROC Edition
The ROC Staff
Sherrie Clifford Publisher/Editor 856-873-6029 sclifford@oceanpinesroc.com
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
Sherrie Clifford, Publisher
Running for a seat on a homeowners association board of directors isn’t for the faint of heart, especially when those currently in power seem more focused on preserving control than promoting fair governance. Many candidates step up with good intentions, only to find themselves facing resistance not from residents, but from the very structure they hoped to help improve.
It’s one thing to enter the race because you care about your community. It’s another to realize that by simply doing so, you may trigger a coordinated effort to discredit you. In some associations, informal alliances operate behind the scenes, shaping narratives, protecting their own and pushing back against anyone who challenges the status quo. You quickly learn that stepping forward doesn’t just make waves; it paints a target on your back.
The unfortunate truth is that those who claim to welcome new voices often move swiftly to marginalize them. Whether through selective messaging, whisper campaigns or vague accusations of being “divisive” or “not a team player,” the goal is the same: maintain control and silence dissent. If you’re not aligned with the majority, you may be cast as having a “personal agenda”—code for: You’re not easily controlled.
If you’re considering a run, understand this: You need more than ideas and good intentions. You’ll need courage, clarity and thick skin. You’ll need to stand firm, even when it’s uncomfortable, and ask the questions others won’t. This isn’t about ego; it’s about accountability. It’s about putting your neighbors and your community first, not preserving a private club mentality.
Serving on an HOA board is serious work. Board members
oversee multimillion-dollar budgets, make decisions that impact property values and influence quality of life for every resident. It requires time, focus and an unwavering commitment to transparency and fairness. You will need to read financials, understand governing documents and, perhaps most importantly, ask “why” when others just nod along.
And let’s be honest about the process. Fair elections don’t happen by accident. When the people overseeing the vote are closely tied to incumbents or when there’s little transparency around procedures, trust erodes. Every community deserves an election process that is open, impartial and beyond reproach, whether ballots are cast by mail, scanned electronically or submitted online. Residents deserve to know that the results reflect their will, not the will of a select few.
So, do you have what it takes?
If you are someone who believes in transparency, fairness and the power of informed residents, then yes. You might be exactly who your community needs. But go in with your eyes wide open. Change doesn’t come easy, and it won’t come without resistance. You will be tested. You will face criticism. You may be mischaracterized or misunderstood. But if you stay grounded, stick to facts and focus on serving others, not yourself, you can make a meaningful difference.
Real leadership doesn’t fear accountability. Real service doesn’t require loyalty to a clique. And real progress only happens when residents refuse to accept business as usual.
Sherrie Clifford Publisher, ROC Edition
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Electric bikes are motorized vehicles and should be regulated as such
Dear Editor:
For a good part of my life, I’ve been an avid bicyclist. I once pedaled 6,000 miles a year, commuted to work daily—26 miles round trip—and followed Le Tour de France on my own bike, a 19-pound Klein Quantum aluminum, pedaling up and down the world-famous Alpe d’Huez 21 switchbacks.
In my opinion, the now becoming-all-too-common “electric” bicycles are an abomination—a scourge. They enable very young “riders,” and older “riders” who should know better, to effortlessly travel
at ridiculously excessive speeds on streets, highways and walking paths. They aren’t “human-powered”— they are motorized. In some ways, scaled-down motorcycles, and, in my opinion, should be treated as such: regulated, perhaps licensed and their riders should be accountable for their actions.
Pre-teens flying down the shoulders of Ocean Parkway and the walking paths of Pintail Park, where parents and kids and dog walkers walk, is wrong—very wrong.
Ralph ”Pedals His Bike” Ferrusi
Class-Action Actor STANDING Room Only
A girl rushes into the classroom and snags the front-row desk in our fourth-grade classroom. It was our first day in school, and she beat me to the best position, in front of the twenty-five-student classroom, at the center of the blackboard.
She was a pretty girl who, for her mad-dash excellence, was awarded the same seat for the entirety of our fourth-grade studies.
Her second-best feature was the long blond hair wrapped in pigtails, rolled over her shoulders and gently touching the top of my
brown, wooden desk.
I was young enough to be unaware of the world around me, old enough to understand that baseball was the most important event in my life and dangerous enough to take a stab at pulling her hair periodically during classroom study, especially when she raised her hand to always answer the teacher’s question.
Georgia, without hesitation and right on cue, quickly responded to my action and unappreciated laughter from the classroom, as
Now Open and Accepting New Patients
By Roger Marino
she joined our smiling Mrs. Perfilio with, “Roger, stop it! Behave!” It was romantic, mischievous, daring, courageous and bold. But I had to do it. I was a hero among my male classmates. Each day, the beat went on until we were promoted to the fifth grade. A new classroom, new teacher, same old wooden desks and a blackboard that covered most of the wall at the center of the room.
On the first day in September, I was rushing to be the center of attention, making a dash for the front-row seat and guess who beat me to it? Georgia. And the hairyanking went on for another school term. “Stop it, Roger!”
However, this upgrade in classroom study contained a stricter, no-nonsense teacher. It was after a few shout-outs and a “Cut it out or else” lecture in the principal’s office, insinuating my actions might hinder me from getting to the next grade that cured any continuing boisterous activity.
Forty-four years later, I was seated at a ceremony for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to receive an award for journalistic news coverage, following Dr. King’s assassination.
Seated in the row ahead of me were members of the President’s legal staff. The hair of the lady in front of me was politely draped over the back of her seat.
At the conclusion of the national anthem, the lady in front of me turned and said, “Hi, Roger.” I refrained from half-sitting in my chair and, in an embarrassed state of confusion, shook her hand.
We have all been embarrassed in a situation of running into someone we knew but could not remember their name. My mind raced through a file card of business and friend situations and constantly drew a blank.
She relieved me from my frustrated name-remembering trials: “I’m Georgia from West Side Elementary School,” she said in a wide smile. The handshake got stronger and the light bulb in my head brighter. Georgia, from fifth grade!
She was a member of the presidential legal staff. I quickly focused
on the long blond hair, now peering through occasional streaks of grey. Trying to concentrate through the squinting eyes of an eight-year-old, she still looked the same as she did 44 years ago. Unfortunately, that’s my mistaken realization of what is staring back at me today, in the image of my own bathroom mirror.
Georgia was at this gathering as a representative of the presidential staff.
We made arrangements to meet after the ceremony for a cup of coffee and some catchup chatter. Georgia was happily married to a DC attorney, with two children.
After college graduation, she earned a law degree and moved into what we agreed was the political world of trick or treat. “Every day was Halloween, and it isn’t always easy to find the right costume to fit the upcoming event,” she said with a knowing smile.
During the following two hours, we spoke about our 44 years of living. The plusses of growing up and the minuses during the periods of losses that would occur unexpectedly in our stages through the days of facial pimples, innocent pranks, graduation dances, high school and college ballgames, youthful infatuations, occupational achievements and good and not-so-good doctor visits.
Through all the talk of our family and business ventures, our conversation came back to the race for the front-row seat, situated in front of the large blackboard, and, most of all, remembrances of our days in the too-tight-to-fit-into-today, fifth-grade wooden classroom desks. And the blond pigtails that graced the top of my desk, perfectly aligned to be tugged at the right moment for a classroom laugh.
I am in the twilight of those years now. In a world where innocent pranks are sometimes misconstrued as hurting remarks, constructive criticism can be interpreted as a terrorizing political statement and too few are listening and embracing the words spoken by those of different language, color and religious preference.
What a difference from the innocent days when we were all equal in a 25-seat classroom, filled with fun-loving boys and girls. And a pig-tailed nine-year-old girl who, after all those years, confessed that on that first day in school, she “purposefully flipped” the long blond hair over her shoulders to the top of my desk after winning the race for the best seat in the house.
ROC Life
Sun, shade and safety; why Ocean Pines pools are a summer favorite
By Sherrie Clifford ROC Edition Publisher
As summer arrives in Ocean Pines, the pools come to life with laughter, splashing and the familiar rhythm of swimming. For many residents and guests, pool season is a highlight of life in the Pines, offering everything from family-friendly afternoons to quiet morning laps. With five unique swimming facilities, including the oceanfront Beach Club Pool in Ocean City, there’s a spot for everyone no matter your age, swimming level or idea of fun.
What sets Ocean Pines pools apart isn’t just the variety; it’s the atmosphere. Each location is designed with comfort and aesthetics in mind. From manicured landscaping and shaded lounging areas to the clean, well-maintained water and comfortable deck furniture, these pools offer a beautiful, welcoming environment that reflects the pride residents have in their community. Many pools are surrounded by vibrant flowers, palmstyle trees and upgraded amenities that make a simple swim feel more like a mini-vacation. Whether you are watching the sunset over the bay from the Yacht Club Pool or enjoying a cool breeze through the pine trees at Mumford’s Landing, there’s a special kind of relaxation that only comes from a thoughtfully designed setting.
Convenience matters too. With pools spread throughout the community, there’s always one nearby, whether you are coming from a morning tennis match, an afternoon golf round or simply walking from your home. Each facility has restrooms, shaded seating and easy parking, making it simple for families, seniors and visitors to enjoy the water without hassle.
But fun also comes with responsibility. Drowning remains a leading cause of accidental death in children nationwide, and even experienced swimmers can find themselves in trouble without warning. This is why Ocean Pines Aquatics staff and lifeguards work hard to remind everyone that safety always comes
ROC Edition • Sherrie Clifford, Publisher
Ocean Pines lifeguards are trained professionals, but they are not babysitters. Parents and caregivers must stay attentive and within arm’s reach because when it comes to water safety, supervision saves lives.
first. Each pool is staffed by certified professionals and has clear rules posted to help keep swimmers safe. But no rule or lifeguard can take the place of personal responsibility, especially when children are involved.
From the indoor Sports Core Pool on Cathell Road, open all year and perfect for lessons or laps, to the tranquil Swim and Racquet Club Pool along the St. Martin River, each Ocean Pines facility offers something different. The Yacht Club Pool draws families with its sundeck and food service, while Mumford’s Landing Pool is a favorite among locals for its relaxed setting and easy access. The Beach Club Pool, perched just steps from the Atlantic Ocean, draws in beachgoers looking to cool off in a safe, gated environment with lifeguards always on duty.
Yes, lifeguards do more than just sit in chairs; they are trained responders and take their jobs seriously. But they cannot be
everywhere at once. Pool safety starts with the people in the water and on the deck, watching out for themselves and others. That means no running on slick concrete, no diving in shallow areas and no roughhousing that can easily lead to accidents. It also means staying hydrated, taking breaks from the sun and entering and exiting the pool carefully.
Ocean Pines is proud of its aquatics program, but staff are quick to point out that every safe swim is a team effort. That team includes parents, swimmers, lifeguards and
staff who remind everyone to follow pool rules. Because at the end of the day, the goal is simple: Enjoy everything the season has to offer and return home safe.
Pool hours, seasonal passes, swim programs and special event information are available on the Ocean Pines Association website. Before heading out to the water, take a moment to refresh your understanding of the rules, sign the kids up for lessons and pack a little extra sunscreen. Summer in Ocean Pines is something special, and it’s even better when everyone plays safe.
Author Frank Hopkins blends life experience with fiction, sells books at Ocean Pines market
By Giovanni Guido Staff Writer
Author Frank Hopkins has attended the Ocean Pines Farmers & Artisans Market for many years, enjoying the wide variety of vegetables and homemade products that the vendors provide. Attending the market each Saturday, Hopkins adds to the event’s variety by selling his engaging crime novels and short story collections.
Hopkins’ books cover a multitude of subjects, many reflecting his own personal experiences. His book “Abandoned Homes: Vietnam Revenge Murders” touches on the Vietnam War and some of the effects it had on the United States of America, even 35 years after it ended.
Another one of his novels, “Unplanned Choices,” tackles the topic of abortion through the lens of the 1960s and 1970s, a time of great unrest in America.
Both of these books have Hopkins’ personal experiences woven throughout.
“I was compelled to write about these topics since they were the leading social and political issues during my college days … I fondly remember participating in marches and demonstrations to end the Vietnam War and to legalize abortion,” Hopkins said.
The settings of his books are often places he has lived in during a certain period of his life, and he frequently draws inspiration from the various careers he’s held. For example, his book “The Opportunity” begins with a newly divorced woman who decides to quit her third-grade teaching job to pursue a career in the federal government contracting industry, a field in which Hopkins had a lot of experience in when he moved to Ocean View, Del., in 2001, where he still lives today.
That is also the setting of “Abandoned Homes,” which follows a marine veteran turned police officer and a retired history professor who try to solve the mystery of these dead bodies that were uncovered at an abandoned home in southern Delaware. It is later discovered that those bodies were college students of the University of Maryland, the college that Hopkins earned his Ph.D. in economics from.
Before he earned his Ph.D., Hopkins also enrolled in Hofstra University in New York State during
the 1960s, which is both the location and time of “Unplanned Choices.”
Compared to some authors, Hopkins is very meticulous with his writing process. He described himself as a “plotter, not a prodder, who writes novels from a very detailed outlining process.”
When he looks for an idea for a novel, he will often watch news coverage of issues that affect people today.
“Watching TV news programs gives me a strong idea of what interests the public,” he said.
Once he has figured out the topic he wishes to explore, Hopkins will then create an outline that describes the majority of the book in immense detail before he begins the first draft.
“I start to construct a spreadsheet with the first row that includes the chapters, and the second row includes the scenes within each chapter. The columns define the properties of each scene, including setting, number of pages, characters, point of view, introductory sentence of each scene, summary of each scene, final sentence of each scene
to provide a smooth transition to the next scene,” the author explained.
Although Hopkins takes inspiration from his own life experiences, his books often include things that are beyond his area of expertise. When this occurs, he will dive deeply into research of the subject. He pointed out that his own researching skills are something he developed during his time as an Associate Professor at Binghamton University in New York.
“I use the internet as my primary tool to conduct research. As an ex-professor, I have developed research procedures that allowed me to earn tenure in four years, instead of the normal six years,” Hopkins said.
The events that would eventually spark his writing career began in his college days. As a student of the University of Maryland, he was encouraged by his professors to write technical papers and submit them to be published in professional journals.
“By the time I received my Ph.D., I had published in two technical
journals and had a book related to my Ph.D. dissertation selected for publication,” Hopkins said.
This type of writing continued as he entered the workforce after his graduation. He would have to write professional papers for his job at the Department of Energy and as both an associate professor and a government and business development consultant. With all this writing experience under his belt, he continued writing even after he retired 12 years ago, this time in the realm of fiction.
Hopkins’ has had plenty of help from his wife, Sally Scarangella, who will carefully edit each of his novels and short stories. She also attends the farmers and artisans market with Hopkins to help sell his books.
People interested in buying Hopkins’ novels or short story collections can find them and the author at the Ocean Pines Farmers & Artisans Market all throughout the summer. They can also be purchased at Browseabout Books in Rehoboth Beach, Del., or on Amazon.
ROC Edition • Sherrie Clifford, Publisher
Author Frank Hopkins, a longtime vendor at the Ocean Pines Farmers & Artisans Market, offers his crime novels and short story collections each Saturday at the market throughout the summer.
Bathtubs will race across Berlin Main Street to find out who is number one in the annual Bathtub Races
By Giovanni Guido Staff Writer
Anyone who walks along Main Street in downtown Berlin during the afternoon of Friday, June 20 will see hay bales being set up in preparation for the annual Berlin Bathtub Races. The festivities will begin at 6 p.m. and last until 8 p.m. This marks the 35th year that this Berlin Chamber of Commerce event is being held.
According to Chamber Vice President David Fitzgerald, at least 3,000 people watch every year on the sidelines as the different teams compete for first place.
For the event, there are 16 teams of two that will compete in a double elimination style tournament, where two teams will compete against each other at a time. If a team loses twice they are eliminated from the race. The team that wins the race will receive a trophy and bragging rights for their efforts.
The teams that participate in the race must build their own bathtub-inspired vehicles according to the regulations that are set by the chamber. Fitzgerald stated some
of the regulations, which include the permitted size, adherence with safety measures and the ability to hold water.
Racing teams are encouraged to each have their own individual theme for their vehicles and even wear team t-shirts that match with their chosen theme.
“Some like to do a patriotic thing, they may have American flags. Some may have a theme of their business that they represent … It’s pretty unique in the decorations that we see when the people build their tubs,” Fitzgerald said.
The event will begin with a parade at 6 p.m. that will feature the 16 teams with their respective themed, bathtub-inspired vehicles.
“Just so that everybody standing there can see all the tubs at one time and the uniqueness and … the themes, we start at 6 o’clock with a parade,” Fitzgerald said.
The races will shortly follow once the parade is done. At the halfway point of the tournament, there will be what the chamber calls a hulahoop intermission. Hula hoops will be put out for anyone to use, and a DJ or an emcee will play music for
Bathtub-inspired vehicles to race down Main Street of downtown Berlin during the annual Bathtub Races.
people to hula hoop and dance to.
During the event, there will be a fundraiser called 50/50 ducks, where people can pick a duck with a number on it, in hope of winning the raffle.
“Since it’s a bathtub race, we do little floaty ducks with numbers on it. So, they buy a duck, just like buying a ticket, except we sell the ducks instead of a ticket. Just, again, to give it a uniqueness because it is a bathtub race, so we wanted little floating ducks. The little miniature ones like kids would have in their bathtubs,” Fitzgerald explained.
There will also be bathtub t-shirts being sold for $20 each. All the proceeds will go to the chamber.
And for all the people, racers and event organizers who have gathered at this annual event, there will be local food vendors that provide pizza, hot dogs, popcorn and slushy ice.
Just like every year, the Bathtub Races, with its competitive yet unified nature, promises to bring people together under one common cause: the courageous sport of bathtub racing.
ROC Edition • Berlin Chamber of Commerce
