OPA 2025 election debacle; trust erodes amid appearance of sway in OPA board’s preferred vendor decision
By Sherrie Clifford ROC Edition Publisher
The 2025 Ocean Pines Association election process has taken another troubling and deeply unsettling turn, with growing concerns that the Board of Directors and Elections Committee may have compromised fairness, transparency and public trust. Recent actions during the board’s review of the Elections Committee’s recommended vendor have raised serious questions about whether certain board members sought to improperly influence the selection process, working to steer the community toward the higher-cost, out-of-state vendor, MK Elections Services, while casting
unwarranted doubt on the longstanding, proven local business, ACE Printing & Mailing. Notably, Elections Committee Chair Steve Ransdell cast one of the two dissenting votes, leading to a 3-2 vote in favor of ACE. Board members Richard Farr and Stuart Lakernick joined Ransdell’s pushback against the local vendor, fueling concerns among many about whether there may be deeper issues at play.
At the center of the controversy is the board’s handling of proposals submitted in response to the association’s official Request for Proposals (RFP) for election services. ACE Printing, a Berlin-based vendor with more than 25 years of successful election service history with the association, was recommended by
Touch of Italy opens May 1 at Ocean Pines Yacht Club, live music starts May 2
By Sherrie Clifford ROC Edition Publisher
Touch of Italy officially opens its doors at the Ocean Pines Yacht Club on May 1, bringing its signature Italian cuisine and elevated service to one of the community’s most scenic waterfront venues. The highly anticipated launch marks the beginning of a new era in food and beverage operations for Ocean Pines amenities.
Initially, the Yacht Club will be open Thursday through Sunday, with hours from 4 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, and 4 to 10 p.m. from Friday through Sunday. Beginning May 15, it will open seven days a week, operating Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
The restaurant will feature an updated menu built on Touch of Italy’s traditional offerings— house-made pastas, classic entrees,
artisanal pizzas and imported cheeses and meats. A curated wine list, full bar service and attentive staff will help create a dining experience that blends fine dining standards with family-friendly appeal.
In addition to the restaurant service, live music will return to the Yacht Club patio starting Friday, May 2, with the band Tranzfusion scheduled to kick off the season. The group is a long-standing favorite among Ocean Pines residents and visitors and will headline what organizers hope will be a full season of waterfront entertainment.
Touch of Italy was officially awarded the Ocean Pines food and beverage contract earlier this year following the end of the association’s previous agreement with the Matt Ortt Companies. The transition included management of the Yacht Club, the Clubhouse Bar and Grille and the Beach Club. The arrival
the Elections Committee following a 3-2 vote in favor of ACE. Although not unanimous, the committee’s recommendation reflected strong support for returning to a trusted, experienced vendor that had consistently served the association without issue.
The board’s meeting revealed a pattern that seems to have undermined that recommendation. Board members Lakernick and Farr appeared to press the Elections Committee and its Chair with new demands and scrutiny of ACE Printing beyond the original RFP scope. Farr publicly stated that ACE Printing has some “red flags,” despite no such issues being identified during the committee’s formal evaluation. Farr continued to extend
deliberations by asking the Elections Committee Chair which vendor he would “lean toward,” a question that could be viewed as an effort to sway the board toward MK Elections.
Ransdell joined Farr in raising concerns during the board’s review process, seemingly to direct the contract away from ACE Printing and toward MK Elections.
After the April board meeting, ACE Printing submitted a formal letter of objection to the Board of Directors, outlining multiple concerns about how the vendor selection process was handled. In the letter, ACE cited procedural irregularities, confidentiality breaches and shifting requirements that were not part of the original RFP.
ROC Edition • Sherrie Clifford, Publisher
The Ocean Pines Yacht Club, now under new management, officially reopened May 1 with Touch of Italy offering waterfront dining, live music and expanded summer hours.
TOUCH OF ITALY
Continued from page 1
of Touch of Italy represents a shift toward brand consistency, higher culinary standards and enhanced guest service across all three venues. Preparations for the opening have included interior updates, menu testing, hiring and staff training and adjustments to back-of-house operations. Association officials say they expect the community to respond well to the new vendor’s commitment to quality and the broader dining experience.
Outdoor dining on the Yacht Club patio, with views of the bay and marina, will remain a central part of the guest experience. During summer months, the live music series and themed events are expected to drive increased traffic, while the full-service bar and indoor seating offer a year-round dining option for residents and guests alike.
More information about reservations, entertainment and upcoming events will be available on the Ocean Pines website and social media channels in the days leading up to the opening.
Three open seats up for grabs in 2025 Ocean Pines board election
By ROC Edition Staff
For the upcoming elections in Ocean Pines, the Board of Directors has three positions open.
Monica Rakowski’s term as the Treasurer, Steve Jacobs’ term as Director and Stuart Lakernick’s term as President are all coming to an end. The upcoming election for these three positions offers ambitious Ocean Pines residents a valuable opportunity to make a meaningful impact in their community.
Interested homeowners can fill out and submit candidate applications to the Ocean Pines Administration Building from now until the deadline on Friday, May 12, at 4 p.m. In order to qualify, candidates have to be listed as homeowners on their property deed.
Being a member of the board comes with a lot of responsibility. Members do not just attend the regular meetings held at the end of every month. They shape policies to benefit the people, guide decisions
ELECTION DEBACLE
Continued from page 1
Despite the RFP’s provision that bids remain confidential, details of vendor proposals were published in the Ocean Pines Progress newspaper before any official contract award. ACE Printing described this breach as a violation of procurement integrity.
Confronted with shifting requirements, loss of confidentiality protections and an increasingly hostile process, ACE Printing formally withdrew its bid. In its withdrawal letter, ACE Printing stated, “We categorically reject any continued participation in a procurement exercise that so plainly violates the fundamental standards of fairness, transparency and professional ethics.”
The withdrawal leaves the board with a narrow path forward. MK Elections, a Pennsylvania-based vendor whose bid was nearly $13,000 higher than ACE Printing’s, now stands as the favored vendor by default unless the board reopens the RFP process entirely or revisits the Elections Committee’s original recommendation.
The cost difference between the two vendors is significant. ACE Printing submitted a proposal for $18,685; MK Elections’ bid came in at $31,539. Homeowners are left
that affect every property owner and protect the long-term future of Ocean Pines. The board oversees everything from the budget and capital improvements to compliance issues, amenities and the overall look and feel of the community.
While the workload is significant, so is the impact. Homeowners who care deeply about Ocean Pines and its direction are encouraged to consider throwing their hat into the ring.
questioning why the board would advance a higher-cost vendor over a local provider with a proven record, especially given ACE Printing’s documented role in salvaging past election emergencies, including the 2023 mailing crisis.
The issues surrounding the 2025 election process mirror broader concerns about governance in Ocean Pines. For four consecutive years, OPA elections have been marred by controversy, procedural confusion, late mailings, lost ballots and delays. Residents who once viewed elections as routine now question whether the system can be trusted at all.
With three board seats up for election and a community already divided, trust in the integrity of the voting process is critical. What should have been a straightforward vendor selection has instead become yet another flashpoint in a community increasingly weary of political maneuvering and erosion of procedural fairness. Many homeowners have even expressed concerns about whether the Elections Committee—though protected by the governing documents—will remain meaningfully independent, as other committees in recent years have seen their roles diminished or eliminated altogether.
ROC Edition • Sherrie Clifford, Publisher
Wastewater meeting set for May 6 in Snow Hill; Ocean Pines residents urged to attend
By Sherrie Clifford ROC Edition Publisher
Ocean Pines ratepayers are being urged to attend a critical public hearing on Monday, May 6, at 6:00 p.m. at the Worcester County Government Center in Snow Hill, where officials will discuss a proposal that could shift a significant financial burden onto Ocean Pines residents.
The hearing will provide an opportunity for residents to comment on how costs are allocated across the county’s 11 water and sewer service areas, including a repayment plan tied to a previous financial discrepancy.
According to County Commissioner Chip Bertino, years of county financial mismanagement have led to a projected $2,188,530 combined deficit in the 11 water and wastewater service areas, of which Ocean Pines is attributed $116,699. This shortfall must be paid back in fiscal year 2026. Under the proposed draft plan, the shortfall would be divided equally among all 11 service areas in
Worcester County, regardless of each area’s actual debt contribution.
This means that Ocean Pines could end up shouldering much more of the shortfall than they are truly accountable for.
If approved, this would result in an increase of approximately $32 per quarter for Ocean Pines ratepayers compared to a $1 to $3 increase if
Ocean Pines residents are strongly urged to attend the critical May 6 public hearing in Snow Hill, where Worcester County ratepayers could face sharp increases to water and sewer bills under a proposed funding plan.
calculated solely on the community’s actual share of the shortfall.
Bertino, who represents Ocean Pines, has publicly opposed the plan, calling it inequitable and warning of substantial utility rate hikes.
The May 6 hearing is expected to draw strong attendance from Ocean Pines residents and advocacy groups. Homeowners are being encouraged
to speak during the public comment period to oppose any repayment plan that unfairly impacts the community.
With long-term costs and public trust on the line, the outcome of the May 6 hearing could shape utility billing and infrastructure planning throughout Worcester County for years to come.
ROC Edition • Sherrie Clifford, Publisher
Gymnasium floor at OP Community Center being replaced after water damage
By Sherrie Clifford ROC Edition Publisher
Work is now underway to replace the damaged gymnasium floor at the Ocean Pines Community Center following a water intrusion incident that left portions of the flooring unsafe to walk on. The repair and replacement project, which began in late April, is being managed by Ocean Pines Public Works in coordination with a professional contractor.
The damage to the gym floor occurred after a coupling in the radiant heating system failed, allowing water to spray into the interior wall cavities and seep beneath the floor. The resulting moisture infiltration caused sections of the hardwood surface to buckle and warp. As a result, the Recreation and Parks Department suspended or relocated scheduled programs, including indoor pickleball, youth sports, senior walking groups and group activities.
Ocean Pines Public Works crews began removing the damaged gym floor on April 21. Once the surface
is fully cleared and prepared, a new athletic-grade floor will be installed by Dynamic Sports Construction. Work on the new surface is scheduled to begin by May 12, with completion expected by June 2, scheduling permitting. The total cost of the replacement project is $62,300.
The gymnasium is a popular indoor space in Ocean Pines, serving a wide range of recreational and fitness needs for residents of all ages. In recent years, interest in programs such as pickleball, youth basketball and exercise classes has continued to grow, making the availability of this space even more critical to the community. Officials are working to minimize disruption by relocating programs to other venues where possible, while others will resume once the facility is fully restored.
The new floor is expected to meet current performance standards for indoor recreation, providing a durable and safe surface suitable for various sports and community events. Once completed, the restored gym will once again be able to accommodate the wide range
Crews began removing the damaged gym floor at the Ocean Pines Community Center in April, with installation of a new athletic-grade surface set to begin May 12 and completion expected by June 2.
of activities that have made it a central part of community life in Ocean Pines.
In the meantime, residents are encouraged to stay informed by checking Ocean Pines’ official website and social media channels for updates on construction progress, facility closures and adjusted programming schedules. The Recreation and Parks Department has stated its goal is to return the
gymnasium to full operation as quickly as possible while ensuring a quality, long-lasting result. This project is part of ongoing efforts to maintain and improve community amenities across Ocean Pines. While the temporary closure may inconvenience some residents, the end result will be a fully restored facility designed to serve the needs of the community for years to come.
Berlin mayor reminds residents of tax rate hearing, town applies for Special Projects grant funding, holds engagement meetings for future Community Center
By Giovanni Guido Staff Writer
Mayor Zack Tyndall of the Town of Berlin announced at the April 28 council meeting that the real estate tax rate will be staying at a flat rate of 0.8275 cents per $100 of assessed property value. There will be a public hearing held during the next town council meeting on May 12 to allow the public to voice their opinions on this fiscal year’s tax rate before it is officially approved.
BERLIN APPLIES FOR FUNDING THROUGH THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT
The Berlin Mayor and Council authorized the submission of an application to the Community Development Block Grant program for an amount that will not exceed $300,000. If awarded for this fiscal year, the funds from the grant program will go towards the demolition of the multi-purpose building on 130 Flower St.
The Mayor’s Executive Assistant Sara Gorfinkel explained to the public that the multi-purpose building needs to be demolished due to its hazardous nature. Because of
its age, the building contains leadbased paint and asbestos, both of which have major health risks. And after all these years, the building is in a state of disrepair.
An application for this grant program had been submitted by the town in the past for this fiscal year, but Gorfinkel specified that this new application is for the Special Projects Application that the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development offers through its grant program.
“Last year, we applied for a $500,000 grant to CDBG … We were not awarded the full $500,000; we were awarded a $100,000 grant … and throughout the process we found out that there are funds available for a special project that we could now reapply for—up to $300,000 … So, this is super specific to only demolishing the multipurpose building,” Gorfinkel said.
BERLIN TO HOLD MEETINGS FOR FEEDBACK ON THE FUTURE COMMUNITY CENTER
Two meetings will be held by the Town of Berlin as a way to receive feedback from the public to help form the future Community Center
on Flower Street. The first meeting will take place at the St. Paul’s United Methodist Church on Tuesday, May 6, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. On the following day in the Town Hall Council Chambers, another meeting will be held from noon to 1:30 p.m.
The town previously commissioned BEACON of the Salisbury University School of Business to create a survey, through which the town has received a lot of feedback from residents about what they hope to see from the Community Center.
“This is kind of taking it from paper into a 3D modeling situation,” the Mayor’s Executive Assistant Sara Gorfinkel said about the two engagement meetings.
Attending the meetings will be the project’s architectural team from Haley Architecture who has finished the draft work of the building. These meetings are being held in order for the architectural team to get even more feedback from anyone who is interested, not just town residents.
“You don’t even have to live right in the Town of Berlin to be able to participate in these community engagement sessions. If you think you are somebody who would be using the Community Center, and
you want to know more about it” you should attend these meetings, Grofinkel said.
REPLACEMENT OF 17-YEAR-OLD VAC TRUCK APPROVED
With the Town of Berlin’s current VAC truck being 17 years old, the Mayor and Council authorized the purchase of a new VAC truck in an amount not to exceed $624,000.
“It’s at its life expectancy. Usually, they recommend 10 years. We’ve made it 17 just because of trying to keep up on the maintenance,” Director of Water Resources Jamey Latchum said.
He then explained how they are trying to get this approved quickly due to some new tariffs which have the potential of increasing the amount the town would have to pay. The potential tariff impacts could amount to a 20% increase, which is roughly an extra $125,000 and would put the town significantly over its funding for the truck purchase.
Once the new truck is purchased, Latchum told the council that the 17-year-old truck will be appraised to determine its value and then be put up for sale on govdeals.com
ROC Edition • Sherrie Clifford, Publisher
Broken Elections, Broken Trust: It’s time for change in HOA governance
The 2025 Ocean Pines HOA Board of Directors election is just around the corner, and this year three board seats will be up for grabs. Three current board members are expected to run as incumbents, hoping to retain their positions and continue shaping the future of our community. But after four consecutive election cycles marred by chaos, controversy and a growing distrust among homeowners, it is clear the stakes have never been higher.
The past four elections have been a chaotic and embarrassing fiasco, undermining the trust homeowners once had in a process that should serve as the foundation of fair governance. In 2021, one board member sued the association to secure a seat, sparking costly legal battles and deepening public division. The 2022 election saw paper ballots recounted after certification had already been completed, when it was discovered that nearly 1,000 more votes had been counted than was mathematically possible given the number of voters. This, combined with no transparency or clear
COMMENTARY
Volunteerism is the cornerstone of strong communities. It is built on selflessness, integrity and the belief that service should be its own reward. But when volunteer leadership becomes entangled with perks, politics or personal status, the spirit of true volunteerism is lost.
Across many homeowners associations, members of Board of Directors wield significant influence over budgets, operations and community life. With that responsibility comes an even higher expectation for ethical behavior and a clear separation between service and self-interest.
True volunteers do not serve for personal gain. They do not expect free amenities, discounted memberships or preferential treatment. Board members, above all others, should pay full membership
fees and contribute equally to the community’s upkeep. Leadership is not a prize; it is a duty.
When Board members accept free use of amenities or arrange perks for themselves, it creates the appearance, if not the reality, of a conflict of interest. Worse still, it signals to the broader membership that volunteering is about what you can get, not what you can give.
Equally troubling is the use of volunteer committee appointments as political rewards. Too often, Board members favor personal friends or political allies over qualified, willing volunteers. This dilutes the strength of committees, discourages fresh perspectives and undermines the very purpose of volunteer advisory groups: To offer independent, honest feedback.
Even recognition of volunteers
answers regarding concerns about the electronic voting system, further eroded homeowner confidence.
Rather than addressing the public’s growing unease, the board shifted the 2023 election processing thousands of miles away to an out-of-state vendor and eliminated electronic voting altogether. Yet communication failures, delays in mailing ballots and questionable ballot handling only deepened community distrust and forced weeks of delay in holding the required annual meeting.
In 2024, yet another change was made, this time switching election processing to a Pennsylvania company and reintroducing electronic voting alongside paper ballots. Problems persisted. Ballots were again mailed late, and online voting began without voters receiving the proper documents required by the association’s governing documents, leading to a special corrective mailing. During the ballot counting process, a box containing hundreds of unprocessed paper ballots was discovered, forcing the election process to halt while officials worked to incorporate the missing ballots. Homeowners were left waiting for certified results, while the situation was further marred by an online fiasco in which unverified election results were mistakenly shown live to viewers during a chaotic and unprofessional scene.
As we approach the next election, the community faces a divided Board
can fall victim to misplaced priorities. Some HOA Boards spend upwards of $10,000 on “Volunteer Appreciation” dinners. Yet rather than honoring the many residents who selflessly give their time and financial support, these events sometimes serve as little more than political showcases. Handpicked media outlets, local politicians and Board allies are invited, while many true community volunteers are overlooked.
In the spirit of true volunteerism, a simple certificate, a letter of appreciation or public acknowledgment at a Board meeting should suffice. The reward for giving back should not be lavish dinners or public grandstanding, it should be the quiet satisfaction of knowing you helped build a stronger community.
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
www.ROCedition.com
Sherrie Clifford, Publisher
BROKEN ELECTIONS
Continued from page 8
of Directors, a fractured Elections Committee and widespread concern about whether a clear, trustworthy process is even possible. Even more uncertainty in this election is caused by the withdrawal of ACE Printing, the longtime local election vendor, after it filed a formal objection over deviations from the published Request for Proposals requirements. The Elections Committee had recommended returning to ACE Printing, citing their decades of successful service to the Ocean Pines Association, but the board’s handling of the selection process led to ACE’s departure. Homeowners are left with a critical choice: Either demand a return to a transparent, proven process with a trusted local vendor, or allow the board to once again turn the election over to the Pennsylvania company responsible for the failures in the 2024 election. With the deadline for the submissions of candidate applications set
for May 12, the pressure continues to mount.
While the failure to run clear and transparent elections has severely damaged trust, the behavior and ethical standards of candidates and board members themselves have been equally troubling. A broken process is dangerous, but so is a culture of entitlement, conflicts of interest and disregard for the rules that are supposed to protect the community.
In a prior election cycle, a candidate promoted the idea that homeowners would benefit from “two directors for the price of one,” referencing a spouse who had previously served on the Board of Directors. Although this messaging may have been intended to boost the candidate’s appeal, it raised serious concerns about whether board business would remain appropriately handled by those officially elected. Governance must be conducted by those duly elected, qualified and eligible, without informal influence from individuals no longer eligible to
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Resident questions justification of new ARC leaf removal guideline
Dear Editor:
It appears disingenuous for the Ocean Pines Association (OPA) to justify the new Architectural Review Committee (ARC) guideline changes regarding leaf removal as a matter of fire safety rather than aesthetics. At Saturday’s Board meeting, the previous ARC chair claimed that raking leaves from yards is crucial for addressing drought conditions and fire safety. However, this rationale does not align with OPA’s historical practices. For over half a century, OPA has faced droughts—including the severe 1976 drought, when much of the area was wooded and undeveloped, and the devastating 2012 drought, the worst on record. Yet, never has OPA mandated the complete raking of yards during these times. In fact, OPA made the decision in 2018 to allow fire pits, contrary to the Declaration of Restrictions,
serve. When unofficial actors participate behind the scenes, homeowners are left to wonder: Who is truly doing the work of an elected board member? Without clear, independent accountability, confidence in the board’s actions cannot be sustained. Further undermining trust, another troubling incident involved the appointment of a committee member who did not meet the basic qualification requirements at the time of approval. Specifically, the individual was not listed as a homeowner on the deed of record, a fundamental eligibility standard for committee service. Rather than correcting the oversight, the board allowed the member to remain in a significant role on the committee and gave them time to have their name added to the property deed. If an individual cannot meet or follow the basic rules of the organization, they should not play a significant role in its governance. Making exceptions based on loyalty, political favors or personal alliances damages the credibility of the committee
system and erodes trust in the fairness of association governance. Rules and qualifications must apply equally to all or they cease to have any meaning at all.
This election matters. It is critical that homeowners ask tough questions of candidates, demand transparency about who is truly seeking to serve the community and vote for individuals committed to honest, independent leadership—not those looking to preserve access or influence through hidden channels. If we continue to reward the same behaviors with our votes, we will only see the same results: More dysfunction, more division and a further erosion of public trust.
This year must be different. Homeowners must engage, hold candidates accountable and insist that ethical leadership and election integrity are restored. The future of our community depends on it.
Sherrie Clifford Publisher, ROC Edition
further contradicting the supposed fire safety concerns.
There are alternative, effective approaches to fire safety that do not involve clear raking of yards.
Residents can safely mower-mulch leaves, promote natural landscaping, adhere to Maryland House Bill 322 requirements and remain mindful of fire risks.
Suppose fire safety truly is the reasoning for this policy. In that case, OPA should address more pressing fire hazards, such as fire pits, the immense piles of leaves at the public work yard, the accumulation of large dead wood piles in multiple locations on OPA land and the unmanaged debris in parks and trails adjacent to homes. Without addressing these issues, the justification for the new guideline feels weak.
Amy Peck Ocean Pines
STANDING Room Only
Build it and they will come!
Easier said than done.
In 1973, I participated in the production and publicity for a concert, emceed by the late, great Frank Sinatra and Bob Hope. During that concert, held at the Lyric Theatre in Baltimore, Sinatra sang a song that until this day, remains in my memory and heart.
“There used to be a ballpark right here,” a song written by Joe Roposo and performed by Sinatra during many concerts with sadness and love.
No, it wasn’t about losing a partner or love affair; it was lyrics devoted to the loss of a baseball team from Brooklyn, New York to Los Angeles, California.
The Brooklyn Dodgers left a city that embraced the team, its stadium, its players and its management. And all that was left in their wake was rubble and a fond memory.
The rules don’t change. The mound is the same. The bases are still numbered four. There are still two outs and three strikes to a batter. And nine innings to a regulation game.
The medical profession is in
the same predicament as our professional baseball clubs. Without a full team of players, it’s impossible to complete the game in life-saving time.
History changes our circumstances financially, spiritually and physically. Today, with our medical science, it is possible for a 20-year-old to live beyond age 100. Today, an athlete can play professional baseball into his 40s and still be effective on the field of play with the right medical staff and medication to keep him propelled to navigate around the bases at the proper speed.
Yesteryear pitchers were expected to remain on the mound for the full nine innings of the game.
Why is it that, even though the baseball pitchers of today are bigger, stronger, faster and better educated than they were 50 years ago, they seldom go the limit? Let’s compare this dilemma to today’s medical profession, which is building monuments to their spectacular achievements—huge buildings with tremendous equipment, able to
By Roger Marino
treat every disease and injury.
In the so-called “old days,” what you saw on the field is what the professional baseball teams had to offer in nine innings. So, stick it out and they will get to the bottom of the dilemma.
Today, Berlin, the Pines and West Ocean City are regions growing at an extremely fast-pace. More people, more buildings, more medical need. Here lies the problem.
Our medical personnel are better equipped and educated than they were in the past. The equipment and technology are the finest in the profession. Still, what’s holding the umpire from shouting, Let’s play ball?
The major problem, according to Dr. Christopher J. Galuardi, a prominent pain doctor located in Berlin for more than 20 years, is the serious lack of doctors to staff the expanding offices and hospitals that are growing like the pines on the east side of Route 113.
Sinatra sang, “For the old team isn’t playing and the new team hardly tries”.
I maintain that’s because our doctors are handicapped on the proverbial mound.
Remember when one doctor met the needs of a family? When he drove his car to your homesite to patch you up, stop your nose from running and the fever from worsening? Those days are in the past, as is the specialist who stands on the mound during a crisis in the family. Today, “the fields are still warm and green,” but the lineup is understaffed.
Today, the doctor is only expected to pitch 5 innings because the insurance companies and government are interfering with the catcher and calling the pitches. The quality of backup players and longevity in terms of innings on the mound has diminished due to the lack of personnel availability.
What used to be a pre-game medical plan is relegated to 10,000word documents to be completed each day by the doctors and medical staff. And as Dr. Galuardi states, “I now can only see one-third the patients I used to see during a normal day. The patient is losing.”
Today, a family doctor or medical specialist, taking to the mound must check on his rule book before throwing a pitch, slowing the game and changing the fast-ball to a curve, contrary to his pitching strength.
Doctors are walking patients before having the opportunity to release the ball to the plate.
“And the sky has gotten so cloudy when it used to be so clear.”
Paperwork, rules and regulations are holding up medical procedures, office operations, physical therapy, office practices, prescriptions and so much more.
In a world where the support staff is as important as the leadoff pitcher and the home run hitter, the medical professional is stationed for hours, reading and writing their right to exist on the mound.
You don’t build a beautiful stadium (medical facility), and expect the fans to come when there aren’t enough players on the team. And those who are there aren’t fully equipped to carry out a winning game plan.
Don’t let a frivolous paragraph determine the outcome of a perfect operation.
Let’s equip the fine medical staff in our area with more talent—on the field of play, in the dugout, behind the scenes, all the way to the groundskeeper who makes the grass green and the landscape perfect. It takes a full platoon of talent to produce a winning team.
Let’s stop the paper-pushers from holding up the medical procedures. Let’s have an aggressive, holistic game plan to draft new talent to fill the needs for our first-place medical staff: Within the community, Washington and, importantly, the insurance companies. And let’s lift the “Cloudy-Stormy Skies” due to an understaffed bench to the fields of green Sinatra sang about in his farewell to the ballpark and healthy game he loved so much.
Let athletic, managerial and technically enthusiastic minds manage the game for the benefit of the enjoyment of the fans and families who purchase their best ticket to the game of life.
Help us to bring here the best recruiters to hire future All-Stars and grow the staff into Most Valuable Players, filling the mounds and bases daily as they perform inside these remedial, monumental walls.
Keep us healthy and safe in this game of a happy life for a full nine innings.
Pray for our healthy communities, the growth of its constituents and the doctors and staff that will keep us physically and mentally safe. The ball is in their hands.
VOLUNTEERISM
Continued from page 8
Removing volunteers from committees because they question decisions or challenge the status quo further weakens the fabric of volunteer governance. Healthy organizations value honest debate and welcome diverse viewpoints. Volunteers should not be punished for raising concerns; they should be respected for their willingness to speak up.
True volunteerism is not about what you receive, nor about the power or recognition you feel by holding a title. It is not about perks,
influence or political maneuvering. It is about service pure and simple. It demands humility, integrity and a willingness to place the community’s well-being above personal pride or personal connections.
Board members must lead by example: Paying their own way, rejecting special favors, appointing committees based on merit and recognizing all volunteers equally, not just those within their inner circle.
Sherrie Clifford Publisher, ROC Edition
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LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Habitat for Humanity Restore in Ocean Pines
Dear Editor:
I frequently notice homeowners in Ocean Pines placing used household items and furniture, marked “free” for taking, in front of their home. As a regular volunteer at the Habitat for Humanity Restore in Ocean Pines, I know that nearly all of these items could be donated to the Restore.
I have observed many families happy to find great deals on beautiful furniture, a young couple happy to find a low-cost appliance and the regular handyman or carpenter finding tools for a small fraction of the cost of new tools.
The Restore can take a wide range of items: Housewares, dishes, undamaged furniture, bed frames, working appliances, working grills, clean rugs, tools, hardware, bikes, exercise equipment, unused paint, boxes of new tile and flooring materials, kitchen cabinets, bathroom fixtures, lamps and light fixtures, framed mirrors, artwork, flatscreen TVs, CD players, stereo
systems, decorative pillows, Christmas decorations, etc.
In general, the Restore cannot take fabrics or clothing of any kind, badly stained furniture or mattresses. These sales help to fund the building of new homes for less fortunate families in the county.
The Restore is located in south Ocean Pines in the Manklin Creek shopping center, near the Seafloor store and My Backyard bird shop. For pickup of large furniture, you can arrange for pickup for a $25 fee, but it will take two to three weeks to schedule these pickups. You can arrange for pickups on the website: https://habitatworcester.org/ restore/donate.html
I recommend residents of Ocean Pines to stop by and be amazed at what is offered, and if you have items to give away, please bring them to the store.
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 21st and the 7th of each month.
Tim Peck Ocean Pines
ROC Life
Ocean Pines set to launch biggest-ever Season Kickoff May 17
By Sherrie Clifford ROC Edition Publisher
Ocean Pines is ready to launch into summer with its largest Season Kickoff event to date, moving the festivities to a bigger, more spacious location to accommodate a growing crowd. The annual celebration will take place on Saturday, May 17, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park, located just off Race Track Road (Route 589) at the South Gate entrance to Ocean Pines.
The event promises to be a vibrant and lively showcase of all Ocean Pines has to offer. Designed for residents, prospective homeowners and visitors alike, the Season Kickoff will highlight the community’s amenities, activities and programs while creating a festive atmosphere for all ages.
Ocean Pines amenities staff will be on hand to answer questions, provide information and introduce visitors to the full range of recreational opportunities available. Representatives from Touch of Italy, Ocean Pines Men’s Golf Club, Women’s Club of Ocean Pines, Ocean Pines Fire Department and more will be present to talk about memberships, lessons and new offerings for the 2025 season.
A strong lineup of exhibitors, both familiar names and exciting new ones, will also take part in the event. Businesses, sponsors and organizations will showcase the latest in equipment, technologies, services and products geared toward enhancing home, garden, leisure and health. From home improvement specialists to fitness experts, many of the region’s top businesses will be available to answer questions and demonstrate what they bring to the community.
One of the highlights of this year’s Season Kickoff will be a full entertainment schedule, with a stage set up to host performances throughout the afternoon. This year’s lineup includes the Stephen Decatur High School Marching Band and Jazz Ensemble, the Delmarva Chorus, the Pine Tones and the Pine Steppers. The event will also feature a return appearance by students from Chesapeake Martial Arts, who
drew a large and enthusiastic crowd during last year’s demonstration. Admission to the event is free and all are encouraged to attend and enjoy the day’s music, entertainment, activities and community spirit.
Food trucks will be stationed throughout the park, serving a wide range of lunch options, snacks and treats. From casual favorites to specialty dishes, visitors can expect a variety of food and beverage choices to satisfy every taste. Seating areas will be available for families and friends to relax and enjoy the festivities together, and guests are encouraged to bring their own chairs to take advantage of the green open spaces throughout the park. Visitors should also be sure to check out the new pavilion, where picnic tables have been placed for added comfort and convenience while enjoying a meal or taking a break from the activities.
Moving the event to Veterans Memorial Park was a key decision to support the continued growth and popularity of the Season Kickoff. In past years, space constraints limited the number of vendors and visitors who could participate comfortably. With a larger, more open park setting, the 2025 event will offer more room for exhibitors, expanded parking options and better flow for foot traffic. Organizers say the move also provides a more scenic and festive backdrop, showcasing one of Ocean Pines’ most beautiful public spaces.
ROC Edition •
Ocean Pines will host its biggestever Season Kickoff event May 17 at Veterans Memorial Park, featuring live performances, food trucks, local vendors and amenity showcases.
The Season Kickoff reflects the spirit of Ocean Pines bringing neighbors together, welcoming newcomers and celebrating the amenities, businesses and small-town charm that make the community unique. Whether you’re curious about joining a club, upgrading a home project, enrolling kids in summer camp or simply looking for a fun afternoon with family and friends, the event promises something for everyone.
As May 17 approaches, excitement is building for what is expected to be the biggest and most successful kickoff celebration yet. With amenities, businesses, entertainment, food and community spirit all coming together, Ocean Pines is ready to welcome the summer in style.
Submitted
Ocean Pines gears up for Bocce Ball League play this
By Sherrie Clifford ROC Edition Publisher
Ocean Pines is getting ready to roll out a major addition to its amenities with the construction of two new bocce ball courts located near the Yacht Club. The project, which is expected to be completed on or before Memorial Day, is already drawing strong interest from residents eager to take up the popular and fast-growing sport. Organized league play is anticipated to begin in June.
According to Debbie Donahue, Director of Recreation & Parks, the new courts are expected to attract over 100 players when organized play begins. Already, 88 players have signed up for the inaugural league season, with a separate list of substitutes ready to step in if a league member is unable to play.
The two bocce ball courts are being built side by side, end to end, maximizing the available space and allowing for multiple matches to be played simultaneously. The courts are being constructed at a cost of $50,692 and are part of an ongoing effort to diversify recreational options for residents of all ages.
Bocce ball, a sport that combines gentle strategy with competitive precision, has seen a remarkable surge in popularity in Ocean Pines. General Manager John Viola stated that interest in bocce has now surpassed that of our 50-60 platform tennis players, a longtime favorite among the community’s athletic offerings.
The location, nestled close to the Yacht Club and its surrounding amenities, is expected to make the courts a hub for social gatherings and friendly competition throughout the summer and beyond.
League play and casual games are expected to become a regular feature of community life. With 88 players already signed up and a substitute list in place, strong participation is anticipated when play begins in June. Informal social games and opportunities for new players to learn the sport are likely to develop as interest continues to grow.
While bocce ball may seem like a modern trend, the game itself has a rich and ancient history that spans centuries. Its origins date back as far as 5,000 years, with early versions of the game played in ancient Egypt and the Roman Empire. Roman soldiers are credited with spreading the game across Europe, where it took hold strongly in Italy. By the Middle Ages, bocce was a well-established pastime
Construction is underway on two new bocce ball courts near the Yacht Club, with league play expected to begin in June and more than 80 players already signed up.
among European nobility as well as common citizens.
The word “bocce” is derived from the Latin “bottia,” meaning “ball,” and the sport as we know it today is most closely tied to its Italian roots. Italian immigrants brought bocce ball to America in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and the game gradually built a strong following, especially in cities with large ItalianAmerican populations.
Played on a flat, narrow court, bocce ball combines elements of bowling, lawn games and strategy. Players take turns tossing or rolling bocce balls with the goal of getting closest to a smaller ball called the “pallino.” The game emphasizes skill and accuracy over speed or strength, making it accessible to players of nearly all ages and abilities.
In Ocean Pines, the timing of the new courts taps into a broader national revival of interest in classic outdoor games, particularly among communities seeking low-impact, highly social sports. The simplicity of the rules, combined with the competitive excitement of a close match, has made bocce ball one of the fastest-growing recreational activities across the country.
As Memorial Day approaches, excitement is building not just for another summer season in Ocean Pines, but for a new tradition of friendly competition rolling onto the courts near the Yacht Club.
For more information, contact Club Director Michael Galello at 410-430-8491 or mgalello@aol.com
ROC Edition • Sherrie Clifford, Publisher
Berlin’s Jazz, Blues, Wine & Brews event returns to Main Street on May 3 with stellar lineup of performers
By Giovanni Guido Staff Writer
Berlin’s annual Jazz, Blues, Wine & Brews event is returning to Main Street this year on Saturday, May 3, with a rain date set for the following Saturday. This free-to-attend celebration features a mix of live music, local beverages, artisan vendors and delicious food. Like every year, this event is being put together by the Berlin Chamber of Commerce. The festivities begin at 10 a.m. and last until 6 p.m.
Attendees will see a wide variety of bands performing throughout the day on two different stages, one located at The Atlantic Hotel and another near The Sterling Tavern. As music is being performed, residents and tourists can peruse the stores in the area and see local artists display their artwork on the streets. With all these attractions, the event typically attracts around 1,000 people every year.
The wine and brews will be provided by the local wineries and distilleries Tipsy Teacher Wine, Berlin Beer Co., Burley Oak and
Forgotten 50 Distilling. Alcohol will stop being sold during the event at 5 p.m.
The Baione Quartet will be the first band to take the stand and will perform from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Leader of the band Joe Baione will be playing the vibraphone and accompanied by Vince McCool on trumpet, Benjie Porecki on organ and John Lamkin III on drums.
The Tribe Band will begin where The Baione Quartet left off and perform until 1:30 p.m. Band members Larry Darnell Simpson, Stanley Johnson and Johnny Matthews play a wide variety of music, including blues, gospel, soul, R&B and funk.
From 1:30 to 3 p.m., The Boneshakers will take to the stage. Formed by guitarist Randy Jacobs, who has worked with such talent as B.B. King, Seal, Bonnie Raitt and Kris Kristofferson, the band performs a blend of blues, funk and rock music.
Singer and harmonica player Anthony “Swamp Dog” Clark will perform renditions of popular blues songs from famous blues performers.
His band will start at 3 p.m. and end at 4:30 p.m.
For the last act of the event, the Stephen Philip Harvey Octet will start at 4:30 p.m. and close out the event at 6 p.m. Harvey will lead the group on the tenor saxophone, with
Justin Mendez on alto saxophone, Eric Williams on trumpet, Shannon Gunn on trombone, Shawn Purcell on guitar, Anthony Pocetti on piano, William Ledbetter on bass and Tony Fidyk on drums.
Berlin residents and tourists are encouraged to make a day of going to the
farmers market
and the
first art and vintage market
By Giovanni Guido Staff Writer
Despite its name, the Berlin Farmers Market attracts a wide variety of people who hope to participate in the event, not just farmers or food vendors. In particular, there have been plenty of inquiries from local artists who have wanted to participate, many of whom could not due to the event’s focus being on food vendors. The Town of Berlin plans to remedy this through its partnership with The Merry Haven to host the 2nd Sundays Art & Vintage Market, which will feature many local artists.
Starting on May 11, this new event will be held in the parking lot of the Berlin Welcome Center every second Sunday from May to October, hence the name. Local artists will display their work, vintage items will be sold and live music will be featured. These Sunday events will have the same time slot as the farmers market, which is 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The Berlin Farmers Market
will be held every Sunday, starting May 4 until October. Berlin has been putting this event together with its Economic and Community Development department for roughly 10 years, according to Allison Early, the Administrative Assistant of that department.
“It’s a producers-only market, meaning everything that you see for sale there at the market was made by the person you’re buying it from,” Early said.
This event typically attracts around 1,000 people every week, and more than 50 vendors will be participating. Attendees will be able to see many of the same popular vendors that attend every year but also a few vendors who are new to the event.
“Everybody usually comes back. We very rarely have anybody drop out that’s why we usually don’t have any openings, but we do allow Berlin businesses to join when they like … and we’ll do our best to add them to the market,” Early said.
The Inn Berlin, 2nd Wave Coffee & Social and Cafe Berlin are all
participating in the farmers market for the first time this year. Some of the event’s crowd favorites include BayBees Honey, Baked, Mandala Pies, Burley Oak, Berlin Beer Co., Lyon Rum and Eastern Shore Kettle Korn, according to Early. BayBees Honey will feature educational material to teach the community the importance of beekeeping and pollinators. Since Lyon Rum is located in St. Michaels, it always attracts event-goers who are unable to visit the distillery as
much as they would like to. Eastern Shore Kettle Korn is quite popular and will be making its kettle corn on site. And for The Inn Berlin’s first year at the farmers market they will feature gluten-free desserts.
Early said residents and tourists can spend the day exploring the farmers market and the art and vintage market when they coincide, and to also visit The Merry Haven, which is located at the back of the parking lot where the art and vintage market is held.
