R C Edition
March 15, 2025
Worcester County CAC new name, clear branding, strong commitment to protecting children
By Sherrie Clifford ROC Edition Publisher
The Cricket Child Advocacy Center in Worcester County is rebranding. On March 7, the center launched under a new name, The Worcester County Child Advocacy Center (CAC). Officials said, while the name has changed, the center remains committed to providing a safe space where young victims can share their stories, receive support and begin the journey toward healing.
ROC Edition spoke with Lauren Cooper, Executive Director of the CAC, who said it stands as a beacon of hope for children who have experienced abuse and neglect and shared more about the center’s new chapter.
The name change reflects the center’s dedication to serving all of Worcester County while enhancing awareness of its services. By aligning its identity with its mission, the CAC aims to increase accessibility and ensure families know where to turn for help.
The CAC is a collaborative center where law enforcement, medical professionals and child protective services work together to provide a child-focused approach to abuse investigations. Rather than undergoing multiple interviews in intimidating settings, children are welcomed into a warm and supportive environment where skilled forensic interviewers conduct interviews with care, minimizing trauma and the need for repetition.
Adding another layer of comfort and support is Belle, the center’s facility dog.
Jessica Burke, Belle’s primary handler, said she is a specially trained therapy dog received through the Hero Dog’s organization. Belle helps to ease anxiety for children and families during
forensic interviews, court and therapy sessions. Her presence creates a calming environment for young survivors as they share their stories, making a difficult process a little easier.
The CAC also connects children and their families with essential resources through partnerships with Atlantic General Hospital, law enforcement, the Maryland Department of Human Services and Child Protective Services, the Life Crisis Center and the Worcester County Office of the State’s Attorney.
Officials said the collaboration ensures access to medical, legal and emotional support. The CAC’s child and family advocacy services offer guidance and assistance to families navigating abuse investigations, while its proactive initiatives focus on preventing child abuse through education, community awareness and outreach programs.
Community support is crucial to the center’s success. Donations, volunteers and partnerships with local businesses and organizations all play a role in ensuring children receive the care and protection they deserve, according to officials.
The CAC encourages residents to learn more about its work and how they can get involved, whether through financial support, volunteering or simply spreading awareness. Together, as a community, officials said we can ensure that every child in Worcester County has a voice and a path to healing. For more information or to make a donation, visit WorcesterCAC.org
To report suspicions of abuse, contact: Call 410-641-0097 or 1-800-91-PREVENT (7738368)
After Hours and Holidays – Call 410-632-1111 or 911
Belle,
a facility dog, brings comfort and healing to children affected by abuse
By Sherrie Clifford ROC Edition Publisher
The Worcester County Child Advocacy Center (CAC) has welcomed a special new team member, Belle, a specially-trained black Labrador Retriever from Hero Dogs, Inc. Belle plays a vital role at the center, providing comfort and emotional support to children as they navigate forensic interviews, court proceedings and therapy sessions. Her calm and loving presence helps ease anxiety, allowing young survivors to feel more at ease in difficult situations.
At just two years old, Belle has already made a significant impact at the CAC. She has been carefully matched to meet the needs of the children and families the center serves, offering an unwavering source of support as they navigate investigations and healing.
Whether sitting beside a child during a forensic interview or simply being present in the room to provide a
OCEAN PINES • WEST OCEAN CITY • BERLIN MD
ROC Edition • Sherrie Clifford, Publisher
As a cherished facility dog, Belle is ready to provide comfort and support to children of abuse.
ROC Edition • Submitted
Continued from page 1
sense of calm and safety, Belle’s role is invaluable.
During a recent visit to the CAC, I had the opportunity to meet Belle and experience firsthand the warmth and comfort she brings to the center. From the moment she greeted me, her gentle presence was undeniable.
Executive Director Lauren Cooper and Family Advocate Jessica Burke explained Belle plays a vital role in helping children feel at ease. They added that multiple agencies collaborate within the CAC to provide a seamless, child-focused approach to care. Law enforcement, medical
professionals and child protective services work together to ensure children and families receive the support they need in a safe and nurturing environment, reducing stress and anxiety throughout the investigative process.
Belle was raised by Hero Dogs, Inc., a Maryland-based nonprofit organization that provides highly-trained service and facility dogs to assist individuals and groups in need. Unlike service dogs, which are trained to support individuals with disabilities, facility dogs like Belle work alongside professionals in high-stress environments, offering comfort and emotional support. Research has shown that the presence of a trained dog can reduce fear, lower stress levels and create a sense of security, making a significant difference for children facing trauma.
The CAC relies on community support to continue its mission to protect, serve and advocate for children affected by abuse. Donations help provide critical resources for the center, as well as essential supplies for Belle, including food, medical care and comfort items. For more information on how to support the CAC and Belle’s work, visit WorcesterCAC.org
BELLE
ROC Edition • Sherrie Clifford, Publisher
With a tender touch, Jessica Berke and Belle share a moment of warmth and trust.
Touch of Italy to take over Ocean Pines food and beverage operations sooner than expected
By Sherrie Clifford ROC Edition Publisher
Residents and visitors of Ocean Pines will see a quicker-than-anticipated transition in food and beverage services, as Touch of Italy is set to take over operations at all three venues: the Yacht Club, Clubhouse Bar and Grill and the Beach Club starting March 17.
Originally expected to take over on May 1, Touch of Italy will now begin operations earlier, thanks to an agreement between the Ocean Pines Association and the Matt Ortt Companies (MOC), the current food and beverage provider. The MOC’s last day is March 15, allowing additional time for Touch of Italy to prepare, set up and ensure a smooth transition.
The decision to expedite the transition was made with the goal of minimizing disruptions for Ocean Pines residents and ensuring a seamless handover. Ocean Pines leadership, the Matt Ortt Companies and Touch of Italy have worked
collaboratively to make the process as efficient as possible. The additional time between the transition dates will allow Touch of Italy to adjust to the unique needs of the community while maintaining the high-quality service residents and visitors expect.
Touch of Italy, well-known for its authentic Italian cuisine and bakery offerings, has built a strong reputation throughout the Delmarva region. With several established locations, the brand is recognized for its dedication to traditional recipes, high-quality ingredients and warm hospitality. The company has expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to bring its signature style and flavors to Ocean Pines.
The early transition allows the company to conclude its tenure with a positive handoff and Ocean Pines officials have expressed gratitude for its contributions.
As Touch of Italy prepares to open its doors, residents can expect further updates on operational details, menu offerings and any potential grand opening events.
Ocean Pines Yacht Club and Clubhouse Grille to host job fair
By ROC Edition Staff
In preparation for a busy season, the Ocean Pines Yacht Club and Clubhouse Grille will host an on-site job fair on March 20 between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Job seekers are encouraged to bring a resume and prepare for on-the-spot interviews. Several jobs are available, including servers and bartenders, hosts and foot runners, line and prep cooks, dishwashers,
barbacks and more.
Yacht Club officials stated in a news release that they are searching for “energetic, customer-focused” team members to join their staff.
“This is an excellent chance to launch or grow a career in the hospitality industry,” the release stated.
For more information or to apply in advance, email: info@TouchOfItaly.com
ROC Edition • Sherrie Clifford, Publisher
A taste of authentic Italian cuisine, where rich flavors, homemade recipes, and a dedicated in-house bakery come together to create an inviting dining experience.
RENOVATIONS Home Improvements
of Bulletproof IT Security Services
By Giovanni Guido Staff Writer
The Berlin Town Council has awarded a request for proposal (RFP) for information technology (IT) and security services to TechMD, in accordance with a third-party recommendation.
TechMD is an IT support and services company that has provided assistance to the Town of Berlin for more than 15 years.
The third-party recommendation was made by Bulletproof IT Security Services in its RFP Evaluation Report. 12 other companies also responded to the RFP.
“Based on our evaluation of the responses, using price, services and company stability as the primary factors, we feel that the risk and potential disruption of services resulting from switching vendors are not justified. We recommend continuing with the current provider, TechMD,” the report stated.
Out of the 13 vendors, TechMD had the fourth lowest monthly recurring cost at $4,734. Bulletproof’s report did not recommend awarding the RFP to three vendors with lower monthly recurring costs due to possible expenses that would come with transitioning from working with TechMD to another company. The lowest bidder was not able to provide the Town with all of the services it required.
The RFP was issued by Bulletproof in January. It requested services such as hardware support, systems and security monitoring and management among others. According to Bulletproof’s report, TechMD will be able to provide all of the necessary services with security monitoring being provided by 1nteger Security, a sister company to TechMD.
In the March 10 Berlin Town Council meeting, TechMD Technical Account Manager Mike Steinsdoerfer said 1nteger would help the town align with new National Institute of Standards and Technology framework, a set of guidelines helping organizations to manage and prevent cybersecurity risks.
Steinsdoerfer said the guidelines cover things like process, documentation and how tasks are assigned to IT workers.
“That is outside the scope of the managed service agreement that we’re proposing … You guys are an 1nteger CORE, which is the base
level—just monitoring management of your 365 environment. What we’re recommending is that (the Town) would elect for the 1nteger ONE solution, which is the fully managed security services provider offering,” Steinsdoerfer said, adding 1nteger would assign a team to help the town align to the new guidelines.
The RFP Evaluation Report was submitted to the Maryland Public Service Commission. According to Town Administrator Mary Bohlen, the commission stated the town was required to comply with the current auditing standards.
“While they accepted the standards to which Bulletproof audited us last year, in two years we will have to be whatever the current standards are at that time. So, this is not going to go away, it is something that’s going to have to be done,” Bohlen said.
Steinsdoerfer told councilmembers he believed this new framework will help with cybersecurity.
‘Based on our evaluation of the responses, using price, services and company stability as the primary factors ... We recommend continuing with the current provider, TechMD.’
-Bulletproof IT Security Services, RFP Evaluation Report
“This isn’t just an arbitrary thing. I don’t think the state is just doing it just because they want one more thing. We are seeing government agencies specifically targeted by the bad guys. And so, I think what the state is doing is a good thing. It obviously will be another investment and something for you guys to consider, but it is something that is real and out there. We see that across our client base,” he said.
Town Council unanimously approved the motion to award the RFP to TechMD.
Berlin awards RFP to East Coast Contracting for replacement of well building on Powellton Avenue
By Giovanni Guido Staff Writer
The Berlin Town Council awarded nearly $410,000 to East Coast Contracting for the demolition of the existing well building, which hold one of the town’s largest wells, Powellton Avenue (Well #1), and construction of a new well building.
Repairs have been done to the well building over the years since its construction in the 1950s but it has come to the point where the building needs to be reconstructed, said Berlin’s Water Resources Director Jamey Latchum.
“The building is in abysmal shape and really needs to be (replaced) … It’s a flat roof so it’s starting to leak and we’ve put enough BandAids on it and the Band-Aid needs to be taken off and torn out and rebuilt,” Latchum told the council at the March 10 Mayor and Council Meeting.
Latchum said the town has been aiming toward the replacement of this well building for the past eight years. In anticipation of this project,
many measures have been taken to ensure that there will be very little disruption to the town when the well building is being demolished and rebuilt.
“We will be down very short amounts of time with the well but there might be a day here and there where we’ll be down … This will have to stay running as much as possible because it is the town’s largest water supply,” Latchum said.
During the times when Powellton Avenue (Well #1) is unable to be in use, the town will rely on the two other wells it has at its disposal.
“Well #3, which is Branch Street, … is three years old and it pumps roughly 600 gallons a minute. Well #2, we’ve done a lot of work there, rejuvenating it, new pump and making sure all the equipment is proper … (It pumps) give or take about 300 gallons a minute. Well #1 could pump roughly right around 900 gallons a minute. So, well #2 and #3 almost (equal) well #1 pump by itself … We’ve made sure all our ducks were in a row to make sure we could work on this well and
take the building down properly,” Latchum said.
A three-phase process will be employed for this replacement project. According to the project’s schedule, work will begin later this month with the entire project set to be finished in early July. The new building will be approximately 24-by-34-feet.
The project’s cost will be $409,955.26. The money for this project was budgeted by the town in fiscal year 25 in the amount of $449,000. With the project being under budget there seems to be a contingency of $39,044.74, however Latchum pointed out that a purchase of an advanced metering infrastructure meter was made for the well building, making the contingency closer to $25,000.
For this project, a request for proposal (RFP) was released to find a contractor to carry out the job of replacing the well building. Four contractors sent bids in response to the RFP with East Coast Contracting being the lowest bidder.
The engineering firm Davis, Bowen and Friedel, Inc. helped the
town in the RFP process and gave the council its recommendation of East Coast Contracting because of the contractor’s experience.
“DBF believes that the contractor has the resources, experience and capability necessary to complete the project,” the firm’s recommendation letter read.
Latchum told the council that he talked with East Coast Contracting and emphasized to the firm that the well needs to stay in operation as much as possible.
“We’re coming along to our large volume use of the season where everybody wants to irrigate their yards and fill their pools … and we stressed to them that we needed to keep this well active as much as possible,” he said.
Once Latchum finished, the council unanimously approved the motion to award the RFP to East Coast Contracting for the well building replacement project.
Berlin council changes schedule for closing on MWIFA funding for three water supply related projects
By Giovanni Guido Staff Writer
A motion was passed by the Mayor and Council of Berlin to change the schedule of closing on loan funding, provided by the Maryland Water Infrastructure Financing Administration (MWIFA), to three different tasks related to water supply. The council previously approved a motion to close funding to all three tasks on the same day. Now, the council voted to close Task #1 and Task #2 on the same date, with Task #3 to be closed on a separate date.
The first of these tasks is lead service line inventory, the second is lead service line replacement phase one and the third is Route 346 water supply and treatment project. All three of these projects have been loan funded through MWIFA, with each of the project’s loans being divided into both a base loan and a principal forgiveness loan.
Lindsey Rader, public finance lawyer of the law firm Funk & Bolton, told the council at its March 10 meeting the necessity of the loan closing schedule change.
“Due to the pacing of the projects and the fact that to get to closing on a MWIFA loan, at least the base loan portion, the town has to pay some of the project expenses ahead of time and then get reimbursed from loan proceeds after it closes, … we thought it made sense to close on the loan funding for Tasks #1 and #2 at the same time but close on the loan funding for Task #3 separately,”
Rader explained.
Councilman Jack Orris asked Rader what the town is “on the hook for” when it comes to the loans of Task #1 and Task #2.
Rader told Orris the base loan funding for the first two projects amounts to $784,783, while the principal forgiveness loan funding adds up to $1,055,910. She also made a distinction between the two types of loans.
“An important point about the principal forgiveness loan is, unlike base loans, they don’t have a scheduled amortization and they do not approve interest from the date of closing. And as long as the town does not default under a loan agreement relating to principal forgiveness loan in the 10 years
after closing on that loan, that loan is automatically terminated and deemed null and void. And so, essentially, at that point funding has converted to a grant but it’s technically a loan until you hit that 10-year anniversary date,” Rader said.
She then explained what would occur in the instance of the town defaulting on a principal forgiveness loan agreement within that 10-year period.
“If the town were to default, MWIFA has the right to call that loan, the entire principal amount that’s been drawn down, immediately due and payable plus interest from the date of demand but not interest from the date of closing. And again, you are not on the hook, as it were, for any of that loan funding until you actually close on the loan,” she said.
The funding for the second of the three projects was approved in two tranches, the first was during federal fiscal year 2023 and the second in FFY24. When this was made known to the council, Orris asked Rader if there was “any concern of any type of changes on the federal level with this funding for reimbursement?”
“I have not heard anything to date on that and I am working on some other loan closings for other jurisdictions currently that have not been impacted by any of the recent federal actions or uncertainty,” Rader told Orris.
Mayor Zack Tyndall chimed in to give some clarity on why there have been no signs of uncertainty for these projects’ funding.
“I think the reason we might not be seeing the uncertainty associated with this funding right this moment is because it really is a pass through to the state, which is why our next step would be Board of Public Works approval,” Tyndall said.
The mayor then said that this new change in loan closing dates puts the town ahead of schedule.
“Basically, where we’re supposed to be right this moment is just inventory … and this is going to get us to actually fixing a portion of lead service lines that we’ve identified,” Tyndall said.
After discussions were finished, the council unanimously approved the motion to change the closing dates on loan funding for the three projects.
FREE COMPUTER CLASSES FOR VETERANS
Presented by:
THE ASSOCIATES OF VIETNAM VETERANS OF AMERICA, CHAPTER 1091, OCEAN CITY, MD
1ST CLASS – APRIL 4, 2025 – 11 A.M.
BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS – understanding your laptop, usage Bring a laptop, or contact us if you need a laptop to use
2ND CLASS – MAY 2, 2025 – 11 A.M.
ON-LINE BASICS – set up an e-mail account, connect with others and the VA.
All classes will include one hour of instruction followed by one hour of one-on-one help. We want all veterans to have the ability to access their VA benefits from home, at any time.
ALL CLASSES 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
A call for new leadership and transparency in the 2025 Ocean Pines election
As the 2025 Ocean Pines Board of Directors election approaches, three seats will be available, offering an opportunity for new leadership and fresh perspectives. This election presents a critical moment for homeowners to consider the direction of the community and the qualities they seek in those who will serve on the board.
The upcoming election calls for individuals who are independent, dedicated and focused on making decisions that benefit the entire community. It is essential to elect board members who will work collaboratively while ensuring transparency and accountability in their decision-making. Strong, effective leadership is necessary to navigate the challenges ahead and maintain the integrity of the board’s responsibilities.
This is a crucial moment to support candidates who are dedicated to serving with integrity, free from conflicts or external influence. Homeowners deserve a board that listens, considers all perspectives and makes decisions in the best interest of Ocean Pines, without resorting to publicly shaming homeowners who voice concerns. Additionally, candidates should be able to run without fear of online attacks or intimidation aimed at preserving a board majority. A fair and respectful election process is key to encouraging qualified candidates to step forward.
Recent elections have highlighted the need for consistency and confidence in the voting process. Issues in past elections, including recounts, questions
surrounding ballot counts and changes in election processors, have raised concerns about efficiency and accuracy. Ensuring a transparent and reliable election process is essential to maintaining trust in the system and the results.
The election process should be free from confusion and conducted with the utmost integrity. Voters deserve confidence in knowing that every ballot is counted accurately and that the process remains fair. It is important that the 2025 election is conducted smoothly, with clear procedures in place to prevent errors and delays.
As the filing period for candidates approaches early in May, homeowners should consider stepping forward to volunteer their time and expertise to the board. Serving on the board is a responsibility that requires dedication and a commitment to the well-being of Ocean Pines. It is an opportunity to shape the future of the community in a positive way.
The strength of Ocean Pines lies in its homeowners, making participation in the election process vital. Whether by running for a position, engaging in discussions or simply casting a vote, every homeowner plays a role in shaping the future of the community. A fair, friendly, transparent and well-run election is fundamental to ensuring the continued success of Ocean Pines.
To apply for the 2025 Ocean Pines Board of Directors election, please visit the official Ocean Pines Association website at www.oceanpines.org to complete and submit your candidate application.
Sherrie Clifford Publisher, ROC Edition
The ROC Staff
Sherrie Clifford Publisher/Editor 856-873-6029
sclifford@oceanpinesroc.com
Spring is in the air and with it comes a renewed sense of energy in Ocean Pines. The chill of winter is giving way to warmer breezes and the community is waking up from its seasonal slumber. Lawns are turning green again, flowers are starting to bloom and neighbors who have been hibernating indoors are stepping outside, ready to enjoy everything this time of year has to offer.
Life on the Eastern Shore of Maryland is always special, but there’s something about spring that makes it even better. The boardwalks are less crowded, the air is crisp with just the right amount of salt and local businesses are gearing up for another busy season. Boats are returning to the water, golfers are hitting the greens and early morning walkers are taking in the beauty of the Ocean
City boardwalk, Assateague Island’s wild horses and the scenic local trails as the sun rises over the horizon.
Ocean Pines has even more to look forward to this season, especially with exciting changes at the Golf Clubhouse, Yacht Club and Beach Club. Touch of Italy, the new food and beverage provider, is bringing its signature flavors and warm hospitality to the community. Whether it’s a post-round lunch at the Clubhouse, waterfront dining at the Yacht Club or a casual bite at the Beach Club, residents and visitors will have a fresh new experience to enjoy.
In Ocean Pines, spring isn’t just about a change in weather, it’s about a shift in pace. It’s a time to reconnect with friends, embrace new opportunities and appreciate the natural beauty that makes this place so
unique. It’s when the community comes alive, with local events, farmers markets and the promise of summer just around the corner.
For those lucky enough to call this area home, spring serves as a reminder of why we chose to be here. Whether it’s enjoying a quiet morning by the water, dining outdoors with the sound of seagulls in the distance or simply breathing in the fresh ocean air, there’s no better time to appreciate life on the Eastern Shore. With new and exciting events, familiar traditions and a renewed sense of community, Ocean Pines is ready for another season of sun, sand and everything that makes this place feel like paradise.
Sherrie Clifford Publisher, ROC Edition
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
Spring awakens the beauty of Ocean Pines and Maryland’s Eastern Shore
Sherrie Clifford, Publisher
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Eastern Shore faces growing crisis of litter and plastic pollution
Dear Editor:
I am Cindy Dillon, the Zero Waste Lead for the Lower Eastern Shore Group of the Maryland Sierra Club. I am writing to you in order to highlight the extensive problem of litter and plastic pollution on the Eastern Shore and to offer a solution. Of the 5.5 billion metal, glass and plastic beverage containers sold each year in Maryland, more than 4 billion are left in the environment, along roadsides, in waterways and on our beaches (according to the Sierra Club of Maryland). Plastic beverage containers break up into smaller pieces that pose health risks to marine life and land animals, as well as humans.
The passage of the Maryland Bottle Bill (HB 232, SB 364) which is now before the Maryland General Assembly, would go a long way toward decreasing beverage container litter. A small deposit would be added to the price of beverages and would be refunded when the containers are returned. Think of it as
purchasing the beverage and renting the containers. Bottle bills already exist in ten states and have proven to be highly effective. When containers can be redeemed for cash, fewer are littered or likely to remain littered.
We need Maryland residents to help get this bill passed into law by contacting their Maryland state senators, delegates and Governor Wes Moore and request their support.
You can find your representatives by visiting MGALeg.Maryland.gov/ MGAWebsite/Members/District, and selecting the “Lookup” option.
Please voice your support now. With each year that the passage of this bill is delayed, another 4 billion beverage containers will be left to spoil our otherwise beautiful Maryland environment.
Yours sincerely, Cindy Dillon Ocean Pines
Zero Waste Lead Lower Eastern Shore Group of the MD Sierra Club
ROC Edition is pleased to accept obituaries from our readers.
All obituaries must be accompanied by a name and telephone number of a family member. A ROC Edition staff member will call the family member who sends the obituary, obtain additional information if necessary and write the obituary in standard newspaper style.
Photographs are accepted.
ROC Edition is published each month on the 1st and 15th. The deadline for obituaries is the 7th and the 21st of each month.
STANDING Room Only
By Roger Marino
My beautiful backyard turned into a buffet, what can I do?
The sun peeped between my bedroom blinds. It was the beginning of a new day and hopefully, the exit of a cold, snowy winter. March is here.
Breakfast was on the table as I peered over the downstairs porch into the green-laced yard that has become my cherished landscape. To my surprise, I was looking into four eyes peering back at my wide-eyed expression. Two young deer were nibbling at my most expensive foliage.
I tried shooing them away from the 26 evergreen bushes and trees that lined my backyard fence, turning green, red or yellow depending on the time of year.
There they were: big, round, beautiful brown Disney-created
eyes, four of them. Two on two indifferent heads, cocked up, ears in an alert position. God’s beautiful creatures, known in the scientific world as Odocoileus Virginianus of the Cervidae family, looked at me with the innocence of a two-year-old child who just committed the crime of knocking over his mom’s favorite flower vase after being told numerous times not to touch the valuable heirloom.
It was an egregious violation of my hard work and years of diligent landscape planning and planting. Not to mention the financial cost to a landscape company to plant and professionally sculpt the plants as it grew in stature and beauty, to the delight of my neighbors and our family.
So, one morning following another of the numerous Delmarva snowfalls, I looked out onto my porch toward the plants, bushes and nine-foot spruce trees, only to notice they were turning brown from the ground upward.
From two-foot baby-blooming green, red, yellow and orange precious plants, my 26-member family of backyard beauty were dying a brown, barren death. And to add thorns to the scratchy irritation of the situation, the same two killer culprits were peering up at me from the base of my lovely plant variety. Staring with sweet defiance, the four-pawed, four-foot-high, woodland-hoofed animals seemed dugin to their crime, inch deep into the snow-covered backyard. They weren’t going anywhere until their meals were picked, pulled and swallowed. At my expense! And despite my intense shouting.
Bambi had bombed my beautiful property. Leaving small thick pines
porous to my daily admiring eyes now undecided to fill with tears or shout even louder to the heavens to scat. So, I did both simultaneously with much lung effort.
Twenty-six precious plants. Two thousand five hundred dollars to trim, cut and groom twice a year. And that’s not even counting the cost of purchasing and planting my beautiful landscape.
So, here is my dilemma: Do I replace the foliage or remove the 26 disfigured plants, bushes and trees leaving the white fenceline barren? Or do I build a barrier completely around the yard, blocking off the pond and preventing others from walking into my grassy party area?
This is a yell for help from a frustrated homeowner located on God’s green acres, the land of pleasant living.
How do I stop or prevent Bambi and his naughty sister from invading and damaging my property?
I seek the guidance of my readers. Please send me a thoughtful solution for this delicate, consequential and perhaps, if my retirement can afford it, a forever expense. And please keep in mind that the animals we are discussing are a product of God’s green earth. Be kind.
email: marino.roger@aol.com
ROC Life
Discovering hidden
gems throughout Ocean Pines that enhance the community’s charm and natural beauty for residents and visitors
By Sherrie Clifford ROC Edition Publisher
Ocean Pines is home to several gazebos spread throughout the community, each with its own history and charm. While they provide quiet places to sit, relax and enjoy the beauty of the surroundings, many residents may not realize just how many gazebos exist or know the stories behind them. These structures, often tucked away in parks and public spaces, add to the character of Ocean Pines and serve as gathering spots for residents and visitors alike.
One of the most notable gazebos in Ocean Pines is the newly-built structure in the Veterans Memorial Park. Completed and dedicated on November 11, 2024, during the Veterans Day ceremony, this gazebo now serves as a focal point within the memorial park, offering both beauty and function to the space. The original gazebo from Veterans Memorial Park was relocated to the Ocean Pines Community Gardens, where it continues to provide a peaceful setting for residents to enjoy.
Gazebos across Ocean Pines have long offered shade and a scenic resting place for those attending festivals, concerts and community events. These charming structures can be found in locations such as Pin Tail Park, White Horse Park and the golf course, serving as quiet retreats and hidden gems within the community. Near the Ocean Pines Dog Park, another gazebo sits in a nearby children’s park, providing a shaded area for visitors.
While out golfing, I recently noticed another gazebo that stood out. This one appears to have a newly installed green roof, giving it a fresh, updated look. Its condition suggests it remains a valued part of the community, possibly serving as a shaded resting spot for golfers or a peaceful escape for visitors taking in the scenery.
Gazebos have been a part of landscapes for centuries, dating back to ancient civilizations that used them as open-air pavilions in gardens
and courtyards. The concept can be traced to Egyptian gardens around 5,000 years ago, where wealthy landowners built these structures as private retreats. The Greeks and Romans expanded on the idea, incorporating gazebos into their public spaces and estates as places for relaxation and reflection. During the Renaissance, they became key features of European gardens, adding a touch of elegance to landscaped grounds. In America, gazebos gained popularity in the 19th and early 20th centuries, becoming common fixtures in town squares, parks and estates as symbols of beauty and community gathering spaces. Today, they continue to provide shade, seating and a peaceful retreat from daily life.
As I continue to locate and photograph the gazebos throughout Ocean Pines, I am reminded of the charm and character they bring to the community. Whether serving as a quiet retreat, a scenic backdrop or a gathering place for friends and neighbors, these structures add to the beauty of the area. Each gazebo offers a unique setting to relax, reflect and enjoy the peaceful surroundings that make Ocean Pines such a special place.
ROC Edition • Sherrie Clifford, Publisher
A dozen restaurants participate in Berlin’s third annual LepraCON bar crawl; grab an event passport to support Assateague Coastal Trust
By Giovanni Guido Staff Writer
To celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, Berlin is hosting its third annual LepraCON bar crawl event. The event runs from March 14 through St. Patrick’s Day, Monday, March 17.
This year, 12 restaurants are taking part in the event.
Each restaurant is offering its own prize. Customers may pick up an event passport at any of the participating restaurants to take part in the competition, according to Ivy Wells, Director of Economic and Community Development for the Town of Berlin. The passports were designed by Brooke Borrelli, the owner of The Sterling Tavern, one of the participating restaurants in the bar crawl. Event passports cost $25 per person.
To win a prize, participants must have their passports stamped 12 times, once at each location. The participants can then drop off their stamped passports in a collection box at whichever restaurant has the prize that they want to win.
“You go to each restaurant, you see what kind of sweet prize you can win … You don’t have to purchase anything in order to get your passport stamped. You just have to visit each bar and restaurant,” Wells said.
The prize winner for each restaurant will be decided through a raffle.
The 12 restaurants that are participating this year are 410 Social, Atlantic Hotel, Berlin Beer Co., Blacksmith, Burley Oak, BourAgave, Forgotten 50, J&M, Roadie Joes, Sister’s Wine Bar, The Globe and The Sterling Tavern.
“Many of the restaurants will have special St. Patrick’s Day drink and food specials,” Wells said.
The event is a fundraiser for Assateague Coastal Trust.
“It’s donation based, so they make a $25 donation that goes to Assateague Coastal Trust and they receive one of the passports,” Wells said.
The Assateague Coastal Trust is a nonprofit organization which strives to protect coastal waters and educate people on the environment. This organization has been a part of
the annual Berlin LepraCON since the event’s inception in 2023. This bar crawl event is also sponsored
by Berlin Main Street and Arts and Entertainment District as well as Fireplace Supply Company Inc.
Raising a glass for a cause supports Assateague Coastal Trust, a nonprofit dedicated to protecting coastal waters.
New owners take over Jun & Juice in Berlin and hope to grow the business and continue ‘to sell the same great products’
By Giovanni Guido Staff Writer
Liam Deck and Charlotte DeBord are currently in the process of rebranding what was formerly known as Jun & Juice to The Juice Club. Formerly owned by Brett and Megan Hines, the juice shop located in Berlin is now under the ownership of Deck and DeBord who are brother and sister.
The original name of the shop came from the two main products the former owners sold there, jun, a honey-fermented kombucha, and juice. Deck and DeBord decided that moving forward they will not be selling jun at the shop and realized it would be strange to keep the original name. They decided to call it The Juice Club since it resembled the name of the Pilates studio DeBord owns, called The Core Club OC.
Despite no longer selling jun, the new owners are still selling many of the same products with the exact same recipes the former owners used.
“(We’re) making sure that people are happy with the products they receive and just continuing to sell the same great products that Jun & Juice had previously been doing before we took it over,” Deck told a ROC Edition reporter.
Many of the same popular drinks that Jun & Juice sold are still as popular as ever, such as Glow Up, Mermaid Juice and Green Juice.
The Hines family originally offered the business to DeBord in January after realizing they wanted to take on other adventures and focus on their family. The former owners knew DeBord from taking classes at her Pilates studio and a past collaboration; she was a big fan of the juice shop according to Deck.
After DeBord told her brother about the offer, who had previously shown interest in opening a similar shop of his own, the two of them decided they did not want to see the juice shop go away. The two siblings became the official owners on Feb. 12.
Brett Hines said he felt good “leaving the business in the new owners hands … We know the business will continue to serve the community who has supported us from the beginning. Obviously we know there will be some changes, but that could be a good thing too.”
The new owners are at the beginning of making changes to the products’ design as well as the design of the shop.
“We’re going to be moving into new bottles that have our logos printed onto them. Next week we’re coming in, painting, getting rid of some old equipment, replacing it with new equipment, getting rid of a lot of the different details and a lot of the things that say Jun & Juice on it and switching it out with the new products that we’re bringing and the new stencils and logos. It’s a bit of an undertaking actually, getting everything switched out,” Deck said.
In February, when the planning for a transition of ownership was taking place, the former owners taught Deck and DeBord a lot on how to run a juice shop.
“There’s a lot that goes into (running the business). You have to comply with the health department and make sure that everything is made to a certain standard and just really ensuring that everything flows and operates the way that they had was definitely helpful getting that from them,” Deck said.
When Hines left the business to the new owners he knew they would be able to make the business grow far beyond what he and his family could.
“The new owners will be able to help the business grow to the next level by scaling through the other businesses that they own. They have an existing community of health conscious members who are engaged,” Hines said.
Deck mirrored what Hines said about making the business grow through DeBord’s business.
“Initially we’re planning on stocking our juices in The Core Club and we’re also in the next couple weeks going to be rolling out a menu with more food options available to people around Berlin to be able to get grab-and-go-food and other healthy options,” Deck said.
ROC Edition • Sherrie Clifford, Publisher
Refreshing, nutritious, and absolutely delicious! The Juice Club serves up vibrant smoothies, energizing acai bowls, and fresh power-packed juices.
ROC
Pines
ROC ’n the Pines
’n the PinesROC ’n the
There are so many amazing things ROC’n the Pines this time of the season as we await the official start of Spring. Even though the weather has its ups and downs we should always stop and appreciate all the little things around the pines.
ROC Edition photos by Sherrie Clifford, Publisher
