Ocean Downs Casino

Jack Ragone began working at Ocean Downs in November of 2022 as part of our Facilities team. He currently handles the busy evening shift, which has many different components including the live racing meet 4 nights a week. He recently assisted in the annual camel and ostrich races which is an event many look forward to each year. Jack did an apprenticeship with an HVAC company prior to starting here, so his knowledge in this area has come in handy. Jack enjoys his position here as he likes the Casino atmosphere where patrons are here to enjoy themselves and have a fun time. He knows that no two days are ever the same and that keeps him on his toes! When Jack isn’t working he can be found helping his family on the farm, getting used to his new motorcycle and playing his favorite game, Old School RuneScape. #teammembertuesday

Meet Amanda! ✨ Amanda is a bartender with Ocean Downs property for 13 years. She has worked in Food & Beverage the entire time! She enjoys her job and being “behind the bar”. The best part of her work is her customers and coworkers. Amanda grew up in Annapolis near the water and relocated to Ocean City—and enjoys the Southern hospitality of this area. When Amanda is not working, you can usually find her spending time with her husband Brian or golden-doodle Grace out on their boat. If Amanda wasn’t doing this role, she would be driving a racecar! Amanda’s family did build and race at the Capitol Raceway, where she and her brother were both drivers. The quote that is most often heard about Amanda is “ Amanda has a smile that you can actually hear light up the room”. We are grateful for team members like Amanda who enjoys her job and makes us all want to come to work with her!

John commenced his tenure with Ocean Downs in July 2022, assuming the role of a Part-Time Security Officer. Alongside his brother-in-law, he established "Finished Touch," a home improvement business in Ocean City, which has thrived for 38 years. After a 14-month retirement, John sought part-time employment, prompted by news of a security officer vacancy at Ocean Downs. He finds fulfillment in the atmosphere among colleagues and supervisors, dubbing Ocean Downs as "Where the Fun Shines." He appreciates the swift assistance provided by his peers and delights in interacting with familiar patrons. During his downtime, John cherishes moments spent with his four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, often seen strolling the Boardwalk, relishing summer treats and amusement park rides. As a devoted Ravens season ticket holder since 1996, John, accompanied by his son, never misses a home game. He also enjoys watching sports on TV. Ocean Downs values John's presence, recognizing his amiable nature and steadfast commitment as invaluable assets to the team. #OceanDowns #TeamMemberTuesday #EmployeeSpotlight #OCMD

Clara Poff, an invaluable member of our Waves team for 13 years, infuses her role as an F&B cashier with a genuine warmth that resonates with patrons. Beyond transactions, Clara cherishes the connections she forms, finding fulfillment in every interaction. Outside of work, Clara's commitment to holistic well-being shines through her dedication to staying active and healthy. Whether she's strolling along scenic paths or breaking into a jog, Clara embraces the outdoors to invigorate her body and mind. Complementing her physical pursuits, Clara prioritizes moments of meditation, fostering inner peace and mental clarity. Guiding Clara's journey is her unwavering faith, serving as a steadfast anchor amidst life's ebbs and flows. It's this fusion of faith, health, and genuine connection that defines Clara's approach to both work and life. Her positive energy and dedication create a ripple effect, shaping the welcoming atmosphere of our establishment and leaving a lasting impact on all who cross her path. In Clara, we find not just a colleague but a beacon of inspiration, reminding us of the importance of embracing balance and nurturing the soul amidst life's daily demands. #OceanDowns #TeamMemberTuesday #EmployeeSpotlight #OCMD

Phillip Hitchens has been a familiar face at Ocean Downs for a solid four years now, and if you've spent any amount of time here, chances are you've encountered him! He's an integral part of our vibrant Table Games team, known for his warm personality and knack for connecting with our guests. Phillip genuinely enjoys his work and excels at fostering a welcoming atmosphere, making him an invaluable asset to our team. Behind Phillip's dedication lies a source of inspiration close to his heart: his grandmother. Despite facing numerous challenges, she remains the epitome of strength in Phillip's eyes, serving as a constant motivation for him. When he's not busy at the casino, Phillip's passion for cars takes center stage, with a significant portion of his earnings being invested in his prized vehicle. During his leisure hours, you'll often find Phillip immersed in the world of Battle Royale games, sharing his gaming adventures with an eager audience on Twitch. #OceanDowns #TeamMemberTuesday #OCMD

Tim became a member of the Ocean Downs Team in March 2018, assuming the role of a Security Officer. In February 2020, he transitioned to the Slots department, where he has since served as a Slot Attendant. He derives immense satisfaction from engaging with our patrons and relishes the opportunity to personally award jackpots, reveling in the joy he witnesses firsthand. Prior to joining Ocean Downs, Tim served as a night auditor at a local hotel. During his leisure hours, Tim's passion for baseball, particularly the Baltimore Orioles, becomes evident as he frequents baseball games. Accompanied by his mother, he has embarked on a quest to visit different ballparks, with 24 out of their 30 destinations already ticked off their list. Additionally, Tim indulges in activities such as cycling, beach outings, and quality time with his family. We consider ourselves exceptionally fortunate to have Tim as a valued member of our team. #OceanDowns #TeamMemberTuesday #OCMD

Rebecca joined the Ocean Downs team in 2019 as a Food & Beverage Manager. She was promoted to Senior Food & Beverage Manager in 2021, bringing with her 25 years of experience. Previously, she worked in the family business and played a key role in managing the Captains Table Restaurant along with the Santa Maria Motel. She has been an invaluable addition to the Food & Beverage team here at Ocean Downs, attributing her success to the exceptional team she collaborates with each day. When Rebecca isn’t working, she can usually be found at dance competitions. Her daughter, Caroline, is on the competitive team at the College of Charleston, where she recently participated in a national dance competition in Orlando. Rebecca was there cheering her on! Her other daughter, Catherine, also competes with the Seaside Dance Academy located in Berlin. Their competitions take them up and down the East Coast, which Rebecca describes as always being a lot of fun. In addition to her passion for dance, Rebecca enjoys spending quality time with her husband Brad and their dog Lucy. Together, she and Brad relish traveling and meeting friends for dinner at the many wonderful restaurants our area has to offer. #OceanDowns #TemaMemberTuesday #OCMD

Tina Prato has been with Ocean Downs for 8 years. She began her career as a Slot Attendant and in 2021 was promoted to Slot Shift Supervisor. She loves meeting new customers on the floor and seeing familiar faces enjoying their Ocean Downs experience. Tina also brags about the amazing team they have built, and their ability to provide exceptional customer service each and every day. Before coming to Ocean Downs, Tina worked at a campground store in Virginia. She continued working there part-time while she worked here as it was a fun job! When Tina is not working she enjoys hanging out with her friends, watching old movies, and classic TV shows. Baking is her passion and her long-term plan is to open a bakery where she can make people happy with pastries. Tina is an asset to Ocean Downs as she works every day with a big smile on her face. #OceanDowns #TeamMemberTuesday #EmployeeSpotlight

Joann Guthrie has been with Ocean Downs for 13 years. She started as a Cage Cashier, worked briefly in Accounting, and when a position opened up in the Player’s Club, she took it and has never looked back. She has been a Lead Player’s Club Representative for many years and loves the challenge of training and mentoring our newly hired team members. She has a fantastic team that delivers exceptional customer service each and every day. She scored 100% last quarter when the secret shopper came to the Casino! Before joining the team at Ocean Downs, Joann worked at Christiana Care Health Services as an administrator. She retired in 2010 after 10 wonderful years. Joann has been married to her husband, Harry, for 13 years. The two of them are active members of the Sussex County Cruising Club. They also participate in Cruisin' OC and the Ocean Pines Cruising Club. During these car events, they proudly show off their '55 Chevy. They also have a vintage toy and train business which keeps them busy attending events. A big part of their life is enjoying their 5 grandchildren, including trips to Florida and Pennsylvania to visit all of them! #OceanDowns #EmployeeSpotlight #TeammemberTuesday

Take a moment and congratulate the winners of our 2023 fourth-quarter awards. Jeff was our front-of-the-house team member of the fourth quarter. Raekwon was our back-of-the-house team member of the fourth quarter. Vic was our team leader of the fourth quarter #OceanDowns #Employeespotlight #OCMD