01/02/2026 OC Today-Dispatch

OC Today-Dispatch JANUARY 2, 2026

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— Page 59

PRICELESS

PHOTO COURTESY OF MIKE DETWILER PHOTOGRAPHY

DAWN OF A NEW YEAR Clean and full of promise is how each new year begins, and the photo above by Mike Detwiler seems to signify that fresh start. What happens next, of course, is up to nature and humanity.

Rt. 50 bridge detour delayed Higher tides The SHA has moved the start date of its two-week closure of the Route 50 bridge to Jan. 20. Traffic must take the long way in and out of town. — PAGE 3

County school probe info scarce Investigators from Office of the State Prosecutor and Maryland State Police execute search warrants at a home and schools’ main office. — PAGE 4

need higher intersection

OC trying to get state to raise road at base of bridge to fight frequent flooding. — PAGE 10

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OC Today-Dispatch

JANUARY 2, 2026

JANUARY 2, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

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PHOTOS COURTESY MARYLAND STATE HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION

The Route 50 bridge is pictured during the summer lane closures required to address structure deterioration.

Route 50 bridge repairs will close span starting Jan. 20

By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Jan. 2, 2026) Upcoming repair work on Ocean City’s Route 50 bridge means the main artery into the resort will be inaccessible for two consecutive weeks, forcing motorists to take a detour around Route 90 through Ocean Pines.

Starting Jan. 20, the State Highway Administration will temporarily close the Harry W. Kelley Memorial Bridge to make repairs to the interlocking mechanism that opens and closes its dual bascule spans. The project will officially launch Monday with single-lane daytime closures and is scheduled to wrap up March 20.

And it’s not just for cars. Sidewalk repairs mean pedestrians and bicyclists won’t be permitted to cross until the 15-day closure period ends Feb. 3, in part because it’ll be an active construction site, according to SHA spokesman Charlie Gischlar.

Other repairs include patching broken concrete on the underside of the bridge. All marine and boat traffic in the Sinepuxent Bay channel beneath the bridge also will be suspended for the duration of the 75-day project.

Access to the resort in the meantime will be limited to two locations: from the west along the Ocean City Expressway, or Route 90, or from the north side at the Delaware state line where Route 54 and Route 1 converge.

SHA says motorists may follow signs to a detour that includes U.S. Route 113 (Worcester Highway), Maryland Route 90 (Ocean City Expressway) and Maryland Route 528 (Coastal Highway) while the bridge is closed.

Shutting down access to downtown Ocean City will impact public safety, school bus routes, and even municipal trash pickup.

Ocean City’s emergency services agencies have been coordinating with the State Highway Administration. Traffic patterns will be monitored daily and traffic flow can be modified in response to a serious incident, according to emergency services director Joe Theobald.

The resort’s fire department is also working on a plan to maintain uninterrupted service and may move around fire apparatus and paramedic personnel as

needed, according to OCFD spokesman Ryan Whittington – an onerous task they already handle during the ebbs and flows of seasonal summer traffic, he added.

For law enforcement, the Ocean City Police Department will continue to handle calls downtown per usual, while State Police troopers and Worcester County sheriff’s deputies will cover the West Ocean City side, according to OCPD spokeswoman Ashley Miller.

Trash trucks servicing Ocean City, which are based at a public works yard off Keyser Point Road in West Ocean City, will also have to detour around Route 90 for the project duration. School buses drivers servicing Worcester County Public School families on the island also will come up with workarounds.

SHA maintains and inspects the 83year-old bridge on a regular basis. For this project, crews will repair motors and locks underneath the bridge decks that operate the draw span. The bridge tender’s booth will still remain open 24 hours a day during repairs because crews may need to run test openings.

It’s not the first time that the 84year-old drawbridge has been shut down for an extended period. In early 2008, SHA closed the bridge for about 35 days in January and February for extensive rehab work that replaced the bridge deck and the drawbridge gears.

The bridge span opens more than 1,600 times a year, making it one of the state’s busiest moveable bridges, according to SHA.

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OC Today-Dispatch

JANUARY 2, 2026

Agency searched WCPS office, employee’s home

By Steve Green Bethany Hooper Brian Shane Newsroom Staff (Jan. 2, 2026) One of the offices in the Worcester County Board of Education building in Newark was the target of a search and seizure warrant last month, school board attorney Heather Stansbury confirmed this week.

Stansbury said the warrant was executed on Dec. 13, the same day investigators converged on the West Ocean City home of Denise Shorts, Worcester County Public Schools’ chief academic officer for grades pre-kindergarten to eighth grade.

Stansbury did not say which school system office was involved in the search and seizure exercise, or what the warrant entailed.

“I can confirm that a search and

seizure warrant was executed on a specific office within the central office of WCPS on Saturday December 13, 2025, by state law enforcement authorities,” she said in a statement Monday. “WCPS cooperates fully.”

Last month, witnesses reported seeing law enforcement personnel entering and exiting Shorts’ home in the Oyster Harbor community on the same day.

Carrie Sterrs, the school system’s coordinator of public relations and special programs, said that the board of education could not comment on personnel matters, but is aware of an active investigation involving a school system employee.

“The employee is currently on administrative leave,” Sterrs said at the time, without providing further details, including the employee’s identity.

Shorts is a longtime public school

employee, previously serving as principal at Buckingham and Snow Hill elementary schools before moving to the central office as coordinator of Title I and Literacy. In 2019, she was promoted to her current position. Shorts has more than 35 years of experience in public schools.

The Office of the Maryland State Prosecutor is leading the investigation but it’s unclear what information is being sought and obtained during the search warrant process despite a flurry of rumors.

It should be noted Shorts, in addition to her WCPS leadership position, is the co-owner of the Sunny Start Learning Center on Friendship Road in Berlin.

Over the last four years, the learning center has received $135,136 in state funds, public records show. Private day care facilities do receive state grant

Best W Wishes ishes from is from Fager’s Fager’s Islandd for 2026.

Reopening Reopenning on Thursday, Thursda s y, JJanuary anuary 15, 2026

funding for early childhood education if they meet state education criteria.

An evaluation of recent cases investigated by the Office of the Maryland State Prosecutor show it’s largely a reactionary body that probes a wide range of accusations submitted to the body.

However, the office does reserve the right to “investigate on his/her own initiative.”

Investigatory probes are made by request to investigate “certain criminal offenses” including election law, ethics law, and bribery law violations including public officials and employees as well as “misconduct in office by public officials or employees; and … extortion, perjury, or obstruction of justice related to any of the above,” according to the state prosecutor’s website.

Results of those investigations are shared with the prompting agency, saying, “Where no violation of the criminal law has occurred or prosecution is not recommended, the State Prosecutor reports his/her findings to the agency … that requested the investigation. The report is made available to the public if the subject of the investigation so requests,” the website also states.

What comes next is one of two things: the prosecutor’s office could decide to press criminal charges, either through a grand jury indictment or by filing a complaint in court. The case also dead-ends with no charges filed if the evidence doesn’t support prosecution.

Local prosecutors are not participating in this case, according to Worcester County State’s Attorney Kristin Heiser.

“The office of the state prosecutor has the jurisdiction and authority to investigate and prosecute such matters,” she told OC Today-Dispatch in a statement Tuesday. “My office has had no involvement in their investigation, which is being conducted wholly independent of my office.”

The prompting agency – the source of the request to the prosecutor’s office — has not been disclosed. However, concerns about the school system’s financial management have been aired by some commissioners over the last three years since the 2022 election.

Due to financial transparency concerns expressed by Commissioners Caryn Abbott, Chip Bertino, Jim Bunting, Ted Elder and Eric Fiori, the commissioners voted 5-2 (with Commissioners Joe Mitrecic and Diana Purnell opposed) in June 2023 to approve a “maintenance of effort” budget – the level mandated by state law to provide the same amount of funding on a per pupil basis from year to year.

With transparency stated often as the goal, questions about specific accounting practices and funding moves circulated throughout budget meetings in 2023. At some point, the county reported its financial management concerns and questions to the state, according to multiple reliable sources providing information on background.

See PROBE Page 6

JANUARY 2, 2026

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OC Today-Dispatch

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JANUARY 2, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

continues, Comp plan advances to OC Council Probe questions mount

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Jan. 2, 2026) An updated comprehensive plan for Ocean City is ready for the mayor and City Council to review.

The Ocean City Planning Commission approved the 2025 update of the city’s comprehensive plan and agreed unanimously to forward the document to the council with the recommendation that it be approved.

“The comprehensive plan is a working document,” City Planner Bill Neville told the commission at its December meeting. “So we are not closing the book on it today, but you are potentially forwarding that up to the mayor and council. They will have public hearings, and you’ll have an opportunity to continue to participate in that discussion.”

Over the last year, city staff, planning commission members and City Council members have reviewed the comprehensive plan as part of a 10year update. The document is used as the city’s long-term blueprint for future growth and land use decisions.

In June, a final draft was submitted to various state agencies, which have since provided feedback on the city’s planning document. And in October, the city’s planning commission received community comment through a public hearing.

With those comments in hand – and incorporated into the draft document – staff last month told commissioners the plan was ready to advance to the council.

“I believe we have a final, clean version ready for your approval to send to the mayor and council,” Plan-

ning and Community Development Director George Bendler said.

For his part, Neville applauded the commission for providing input on the long-term planning document. He noted that their suggestions, along with those from both state officials and the community, were included.

“I think there’s an advantage to not only providing this level of detail for the state comments, but also for the ones that the commissioners have provided,” he said. “That lets the council know what you’ve been thinking and kind of the fine tuning you’ve done.”

The draft 2025 comprehensive plan update is available for public review on the Town of Ocean City website, oceancitymd.gov. Comments continue to be accepted through the city’s web portal.

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Continued from Page 4 In subsequent budget years, while increased funding has been given to the school system, the commissioners by majority vote have not supported the full budget request the last two years.

Fiori, Purnell, and Mitrecic supported a nearly full budget request for the school in June while Abbott, Bertino, Bunting and Elder favored reducing the property and income tax rates over getting closer to meeting the school board’s funding requests.

In April, at Abbott’s request, the commissioners voted unanimously to ask that the state’s Department of Legislative Services audit the county’s Board of Education. Typically, the DLS audits the school system every six years. The last audit result was released in 2017.

WCPS asked for and was granted an exemption from an audit during the 2017 to 2022 window.

State policies on audits says school systems may not have two consecutive exemptions.

In the 2017 audit, the state noted how WCPS had not established processes to monitor employees who processed vendor invoices and payroll. That audit also found security risks in computer networks, and that transportation costs were “excessive” because bus contractors were paid more than necessary for bus purchase reimbursement and fuel costs.

“I just think it’s prudent to do it,” Abbott said at the time. “I’m not sure why (an exemption) was asked for and given.

It’s an independent and objective review, and that doesn’t hurt, it only helps.

I thought it would be a good tool for the schools and the taxpayers, especially with a new superintendent coming in.”

Recent cases pursued by the Office of the Maryland State Prosecutor, public records show, include a Maryland Department of Health police captain who was sentenced in December to a month in jail for attending college courses over a five-month period during scheduled work shifts; a Cecil County sheriff’s deputy who used police databases illegally to snoop on people; and a Senate legislative aide who stole from a scholarship fund.

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Inside this week Calendar ..............................37 Classifieds ..........................39 Crossword ............................38 Dining Guide ........................34 Editoral/Letters....................64 Entertainment ......................28 Horoscope ............................31 Obituaries ............................67 Police/Crime........................23 Public Notices ......................42 Sports ..................................69

JANUARY 2, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

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OC Today-Dispatch

JANUARY 2, 2026

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JANUARY 2, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

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OC Today-Dispatch

Platform near bridge could be used to alleviate flooding

The Maryland Department of Transportation is evaluating a project to elevate the intersection at the base of the Route 50 bridge with a tabletop design, shown above. Officials say raising the low-lying area will keep the bridge accessible to motorists and first responders during periods of flooding.

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By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Jan. 2, 2026) An idea to raise the intersection at the base of Route 50 bridge in Ocean City is gaining some traction at the state level.

Since 2023, the Town of Ocean City has asked the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) to evaluate its plan for elevating the intersection at North Division Street and Philadelphia Avenue, which officials say will keep the bridge accessible to emergency vehicles when the intersection floods.

Last month, during a visit to MDOT’s headquarters in Baltimore, Ocean City Public Works Director Hal Adkins learned the project is now in the process of being studied.

“It’s not a big change …,” he explained in an interview last week.

“The concept is to elevate the intersection at North Division and Philly, so that when you are entering town, you have an elevated platform.”

Adkins noted that in the last decade, the level and frequency of flooding in the downtown area has gotten worse. During periods of flooding, he said, the roads entering and exiting downtown Ocean City have become impassable.

“When you look at it from a first responder standpoint, you are stuck between a rock and a hard place,” he said.

The solution, Adkins explained, would be an elevated intersection –

shaped like a tabletop – designed to alleviate flooding and make it safer for motorists at the base of the Route 50 bridge. The “tabletop” would extend west to east, from the foot of the bridge to North Division Street, and north to south along a portion of Philadelphia Avenue.

“It’s not a speed bump,” he explained. “It’s just a smooth transition.”

A 2023 letter to MDOT SHA’s district engineer highlights the city’s support for the project, which they claim can be accomplished without any major impact to motorists and neighboring property owners.

Adkins added that the design not only addresses flooding, but could improve the aesthetic and safety of the intersection, as it calls for replacing the wooden bollards at the base of the bridge with a jersey wall. He said the bollards are often damaged in accidents.

“The jersey wall will handle the grade situation, resolve the wooden bollards that nobody likes, and remove incoming motorists out of harm’s way,” he said.

Adkins said MDOT is now putting together a “scope of services” needed to evaluate the project before it is advanced to construction funding. If installed, he said the elevated area will keep one of Ocean City’s three main access points open during periods of flooding.

Investigation reveals arson cause of Pocomoke blaze (Jan. 2, 2026) Arson charges have been filed in a residential fire in Pocomoke last weekend.

At approximately 1:40 p.m. on Dec. 28, Worcester County Emergency Services received a 911 call from the occupant of a residence in the 400 block of Linden Avenue, reporting that her house was on fire, and that she was trapped on the second floor, unable to escape.

A Pocomoke City police officer, a Pocomoke City EMS clinician and a Pocomoke City volunteer firefighter arrived on scene within minutes.

These three professionals were able to force entry into the residence and rescue the victim from the second floor, prior to the arrival of fire apparatus and without the use of any safety equipment. Firefighters from the Pocomoke City Volunteer Fire Company arrived shortly after and were able to quickly bring the blaze under control.

The victim sustained serious injuries and was flown by Maryland State Police Aviation Command to Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical

Center in Baltimore for further treatment.

Investigators from the Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office responded to the incident. After analyzing the scene, collecting evidence, and conducting interviews, investigators were able to determine the fire had started inside the residence andwas incendiary.

Investigators were also able to identify a person of interest, Margaret Jane Benchama, but were initially unable to locate her.

At approximately 6:30 p.m. on Dec. 28, Benchama was located and detained. Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office investigators conducted an interview with Benchama, during which she ultimately admitted to starting the fire intentionally.

Worcester County Deputy Fire Marshals arrested Benchama on charges of first-degree arson and second-degree arson. She was transported to the Worcester County Jail, where she is currently being held without bond.

JANUARY 2, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

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OC Today-Dispatch

JANUARY 2, 2026

Country Calling returning to two-day fest format in 2026

PHOTO COURTESY COUNTRY CALLING

The promoter of the Country Calling Festival announced the 2026 event will return to the two-day format. Ticket sales and festival lineups will be announced in the coming months. Above, a crowd is pictured during this fall’s festival, the first to be held over the course of three days.

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Jan. 2, 2026) The third annual Country Calling Festival will return to a two-day format next year.

On Dec. 18, promoter C3 Presents announced its “Save the Date” for next year’s Country Calling, to be held Oct. 2-3, 2026.

Tourism and Business Development Director Tom Perlozzo said that while there was “no real particular reason” for next year’s event reverting back to its two-day format, the change would “ensure the longevity of the event and potential headliners.”

The news comes one month after officials shared that the second installment of Boardwalk Rock would not return to Ocean City next spring.

They noted that the cancellation of two headline acts had forced them to cancel the 2026 event entirely.

“Everything, operationally, was set and ready to go,” Perlozzo said at the

time. “But we had two headliners drop out over the course of getting this thing ready, and we couldn’t find a replacement that was suitable and met the expectations for a first-class event here in Ocean City.”

Perlozzo, however, made it clear that the promoter’s challenges in securing entertainment would have no effect on next year’s Oceans Calling Festival, which will return Sept. 2527, and Country Calling Festival, which will return Oct. 2-3.

Earlier this year, C3 Presents announced that the 2025 Country Calling event would expand from two days to three, with headline acts from Carrie Underwood, Brooks & Dunn, Luke Bryan and Luke Combs. The extended festival, coupled with a strong musical lineup, brought an estimated 55,000 people to Ocean City each day over the course of the weekend.

C3 Presents Tim Sweetwood did not respond to requests for comment.

Snow Hill student threatens violent act, police act swiftly

By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Jan. 2, 2026) Police shut down a threat of violence against Snow Hill High School made on Dec. 19 by a student who was using spoofed text messages.

Worcester County Sheriff Matt Crisafulli said a quick resolution in this particular threat was the result of strong communication and collaboration between the school and law enforcement.

“Because information was shared quickly,” he told OC Today-Dispatch, “we were able to intervene before any potential threat could evolve, keeping our students and staff safe. I am extremely grateful for the collaborative efforts of everyone involved!”

It was around 10:30 a.m. on Dec. 19 when the Sheriff’s Office announced on social media that there had been a “concerning message” circulating among students.

In the early morning hours of Dec. 19, several students reported receiving a text message from an unknown telephone number, saying there would be a midday shooting at the school against students and staff.

The sheriff’s office posted to social media at 10:34 a.m. that they were looking into the threat. Police beefed up their presence at the school while they investigated.

Law enforcement acted quickly, according to the sheriff’s office.

Deputies were able to trace the source of the message using phone records and investigative techniques. They

learned the number had been “spoofed” to make it appear like a random phone number.

The student, a freshman enrolled at Snow Hill High, was taken into custody and criminally charged as a juvenile. After having confiscated his phone, deputies confirmed that the threats were sent using the boy’s device, according to the sheriff’s office.

By 11 a.m., an all-clear update was posted: “The investigation remains ongoing; however, there is no current threat to students or staff at the school,” the sheriff’s office said on Facebook.

At this time, it’s not clear what punitive consequences the student may have faced from school administrators.

It’s not the first time an online or phone-based threat has shaken the Snow Hill community.

In February 2023, police investigated an early-morning threat to Snow Hill Middle posted to social media. Law enforcement later deemed the threat “not credible” and school services resumed later in the day.

In March 2019, the sheriff’s office charged two juveniles criminally in connection with a failed school shooting plot at Snow Hill Middle.

Police determined that the juveniles’ plan was months in the making.

Other students ended up tipping off authorities to the threat, and no weapons were ever brought onto school property.

JANUARY 2, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

Berlin accepting applicants for open police chief position

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Jan. 2, 2026) The Town of Berlin is officially searching for the next chief of police, announcing the job posting for the department’s leadership position has been released following Chief Arnold Downing’s retirement.

A Dec. 26 press release notes that town officials are seeking “qualified candidates to advance the department’s focus on community-centered policing, public safety, and operational excellence.”

The announcement comes amid a leadership transition following the retirement of longtime Police Chief Arnold Downing last month. Lt. Robert Fisher has been appointed interim chief of police and will serve in that capacity until a permanent chief is selected, according to the municipality’s announcement.

Officials say that Fisher brings “extensive experience” to the role and is committed to prioritizing “community partnerships and upholding the department’s core mission and values of integrity, respect, and service.”

Fisher has served with the Berlin Police Department for about 30 years. During that time, he has taken on a variety of roles, including collision reconstructionist, drone operator, and member of the department’s bicycle patrol unit. He previously served on the Town of Berlin SWAT team and is also a certified firearms instructor.

In addition to his operational background, Fisher has contributed to the department’s administrative functions. His experience includes supporting budget development and management. The interim chief has also played a part in the hiring and promotion processes.

The Dec. 26 press release states that this combination of policing experience and leadership positions will enable Fisher to provide stability during the search for the permanent police chief.

“Berlin’s police department remains focused on protecting and serving those who live, work, and visit the Town of Berlin,” Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall said in the municipality's statement. “I am encouraged by the level of interest we have already received in the Chief of Police position and confident that Interim Chief Fisher will provide steady leadership throughout this transition while we complete a thorough and thoughtful search for the department’s next chief.”

The chief of police job posting is available on the Town of Berlin’s website at berlinmd.gov/employment, where interested candidates

can review the position’s qualifications, responsibilities, and application procedures. Town officials have not released a timeline for when a permanent chief is expected to be named. The position’s salary range is advertised as $102,273 to $124,612.

The current search follows the retirement of Downing, who has served the town for more than three decades. Last month, the Berlin Mayor and Council formally honored Downing during a Dec. 8 council meeting as he prepared to step down from his role.

At the meeting, Tyndall reflected on Downing’s long career and his own professional history working alongside him in multiple capacities, including as a paramedic, councilmember, and mayor.

“On behalf of all of us, I do want to say thank you for your service,” Tyndall said at the time. “Decades of service to the Town of Berlin and to the citizens, capstoning a fundamental career as the chief of police. We couldn’t have asked for a better person to serve in that capacity.”

Downing began his career with the Berlin Police Department on Aug. 26, 1991. He was appointed acting chief of police in February 2000 and officially named chief in December 2002, becoming both the first African American administrator and the first African American chief of police in the department’s history.

During his tenure, the department expanded significantly, launching specialized units such as SWAT, a traffic reconstruction unit, five K9 teams, a drone unit, a Defensive Tactics Instruction Team, and a Firearms Training Unit. Downing also championed officer wellness and professional development, spearheading initiatives including enrollment in the Law Enforcement Officer Pension System, a take-home car program, and specialized pay incentives.

One of the most visible accomplishments of his administration was the opening of the new Berlin Police Station in 2018, a project that modernized the department’s infrastructure and supported future growth.

Beyond policing, Downing played an active role in community service, serving as a founding member of the Worcester County Child Advocacy Center, formerly known as the C.R.I.C.K.E.T. Center, and as a member of the Lower Shore CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) and Worcester Youth and Family Counseling Services.

Those interested in the Berlin Police Department’s open leadership role are encouraged to apply.

www w..octodaydispatch.com

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JANUARY 2, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

Funds confirmed for utility project, OC officials say

FILE PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

City officials are moving forward with a plan to underground utilities along a portion of Baltimore Avenue, pictured above.

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By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Jan. 2, 2025) A scaled-down plan to bury utilities along a portion of Baltimore Avenue is now in motion following some assurances that Ocean City would still have access to a $20 million federal grant.

After receiving a $44.8 million cost estimate to bury utilities along Baltimore Avenue from North Division to 15th streets, the Ocean City Council last month agreed to take a $20 million federal grant and add a $5 million local match to go as far as it can with the project, so long as the new “scaled-down” version remained eligible for funding.

With the state confirming those funds remain available, Public Works Director Hal Adkins said efforts to redesign the project will soon begin.

“After recent discussions with the Maryland Department of Transportation Planning Department, I have confirmed that they will prepare and provide the [memorandum of understanding] for the ‘Further Scaled Down Version’ of the Baltimore Ave. Project,” he said in a statement last week. “So, as far as I am concerned we are now positioned to commence the redesign, the NEPA Process, and all other activities associated with the Project.”

Last year, the city received a $20 million federal earmark to help fund an extensive effort to bury utilities, widen the sidewalks and improve the overall streetscape along a portion of Baltimore Avenue. Based on initial cost estimates, the federal grant was expected to pay for roughly half of the $40 million project.

Earlier this fall, however, city officials, fearing an updated cost estimate would take the total price tag beyond $40 million, decided instead to pursue a scaleddown version of the project, which focused solely on burying utilities from North Division to 15th street.

Those fears were confirmed last month when the council learned the scaled-down version is now estimated at $44.8 million, or $5 million more than the cost of the original project.

The council in December voted unanimously to begin burying the Baltimore Avenue utilities lines – starting on North Division Street – until the $20 million grant and $5 million local match dries up. City staff at the time also agreed to contact state partners to ensure the scaled-down project remained eligible for the $20 million earmark.

Using the federal grant will come with some stipulations. For example, the Town of Ocean City must meet certain approval and design requirements and develop a shovel-ready project before Sept. 30, 2027. Adkins said last week the city is on track to meet that deadline.

“It is my hope to have bid the project

by August of 2027 and to commence construction of a Two Year, Two Phased, project in late October of 2027,” he said.

JANUARY 2, 2026

PAGE 15

OC Today-Dispatch

Town considering zoning code modifications OC weighs larger setbacks for residential properties in commercial zoning spaces

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Jan. 2, 2026) Ocean City’s planning commission will hold a public hearing this month to consider increasing setbacks for residential developments located in commercial zoning districts.

On Jan. 21, the Ocean City Planning Commission will accept public comment on a proposed zoning code amendment on setback regulations within commercial zones. The city proposes to increase minimum frontand side-yard setbacks for residential dwellings and subdivided two-family dwellings and townhouses.

“We had a discussion of how we can do some effective land use changes,” Planning and Community Development Director George Bendler told commission members at a Dec. 16 meeting. “And one of the things we all agreed on at these meetings is that we are going to take small bites of the apple. And one of these is setbacks, especially in our commercial districts – our LC-1s, our SC-1s, and other commercial districts.”

Specifically, the amendment would: increase front-yard setbacks or any residential dwellings or subdivided two-family dwellings and townhouses to 20 feet; increase the rear-yard setback to 15 feet; and require a five-foot side setback for one, two- or three-story, two-family subdivided dwellings and townhouses, and a 10-foot side setback for four- or five-story subdivided dwellings and townhouses.

“Those districts, when you go in and put residential use in there, you have the luxury of receiving commercial setbacks,” Bendler explained.

“And the situation that occurs with those commercial setbacks is we are not getting the luxury of having additional land for the facilities we need.

“If you look at some of our most recent developments, you see how tight the setbacks get, where we barely have enough room for our transformer, barely enough room for our mailbox services. We’re limited in the amount of setbacks we have here.”

Bendler said increasing setbacks for residential developments placed in commercial zones would give additional space to accommodate basic needs – such as trash service, stormwater systems and more. He said the city was “struggling with every project” to ensure those services are included.

Bendler added that the city was evaluating changes in all commercial zones – LC-1 local commercial, BM-1 bayside marine, DM downtown marine, BMUD bayside marine mixed use, and SC-1 shopping center dis-

tricts. However, he noted that staff would start small, starting with projects in LC-1 zones.

“What we are doing is taking a bite of the apple and going back and saying these projects in our LC-1, that are supposed to be commercial, that are going to be all residential, they

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When asked if smaller lots would be exempt from the changes, Bendler said they wouldn’t. However, he said staff would evaluate smaller lots located in commercial zones and prepare maps for the upcoming public

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Ocean City uses a pyramidal zoning system which allows residential projects in less-strict commercial zoning districts. In recent years, city officials have debated the use of pyramidal zoning and its impact on commercial development.

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OC Today-Dispatch

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OC Today-Dispatch

JANUARY 2, 2026

Former military ordnances found on Assateague

PHOTOS COURTESY OF WORCESTER COUNTY FIRE MARSHAL’S OFFICE

One of the two recovered former military ordnances is pictured above and below is what the specific type looks like when not subjected to the ocean for decades.

(Jan. 1, 2025) Two unexploded military ordnances were recovered by authorities on Sunday.

On Dec. 28, at approximately 8:35 a.m., the Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office was requested to assist the National Park Service at Assateague Island National Seashore following the recovery of a suspected unexploded military ordnance.

Later that afternoon, a second suspected unexploded military ordnance was recovered at a residence on Greenwood Lane in the Ocean Pines community.

The device recovered in Ocean Pines was determined to have originated from Assateague Island and had been transported from the National Seashore to the residence by a member of the public.

Bomb squad units from the Ocean City Fire Marshal’s Office responded and coordinated with the United States Air Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team from Dover Air Force Base, 436th Civil Engineer Squadron. Following evaluation, both devices were believed to be M29A1 Practice Rockets or a variation of the same, a type of military training ordnance commonly known as the “Super Bazooka.”

Assateague Island was historically used as a military bombing and training range during World War II, and unexploded military ordnance may still be present in certain areas.

Although designated as “practice” munitions, these devices can still pose serious safety hazards.

Both devices were rendered safe and disposed of properly by EOD personnel.

There were no injuries reported in either incident.

The Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office strongly reminds the public that unexploded military ordnance and suspicious devices are extremely dangerous.

Members of the public should never touch, move, or transport any suspected ordnance. If an unfamiliar or suspicious object is discovered, individuals should immediately leave the area and call 911 so trained personnel can respond safely.

JANUARY 2, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

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JANUARY 2, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

New meter installation work to start in OC

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Jan. 2, 2026) The Town of Ocean City will begin upgrading its water meters with an automatic meter reading system.

On Jan. 5, crews with Concord Utility Services will begin installing automatic reading systems (AMI) on the city’s water meters, as well as replacing any broken meters found in the process. To that end, the city is alerting residents and businesses of the upcoming project.

“The purpose of this effort is to up-

grade the City’s water distribution system with an electronic reading capability and to replace meters that have served beyond their estimated useful lives,” a flyer from the city reads. “The target meter population includes all commercial and residential meters.”

In December, the Town of Ocean City proceeded with a bond sale to fund six capital projects in the current fiscal year. Among them, a $2.3 million line item to upgrade water meters.

According to the city, the new

digital system will allow meters to be read from data collectors mounted to infrastructure across town, meaning city staff will no longer have to come to a customer’s property to collect water usage numbers. Replacing any old meters along the way will also ensure the city can accurately track usage for billing purposes.

The city reports customers will not be charged for the digital reading installation, or any meter replacement that may be needed. As water meters – in most cases – are located in the

public right-of-way, the city added that installers would not disturb a customer’s property.

“There are a very small number of situations where your meter might be located inside of your home or building,” the flyer reads. “In those cases, we will schedule an appointment in advance.”

The city estimates the project to be completed in April. Those who have questions or concerns are asked to contact Dan Cole, water superintendent, at 410-524-8388, or email dcole@oceancitymd.gov.

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OC Today-Dispatch

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12207 Suite D, Coastal Hwy • Ocean City, MD 410-524-1203 Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are independent contractor sales associates and are not employees of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. © 2026 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker is a registered service mark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLS. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Opportunity. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC.

JANUARY 2, 2026

PAGE 23

OC Today-Dispatch

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PAGE 24

JANUARY 2, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

Electrical fire north of Berlin destroys home (Jan. 2, 2026) Six area fire companies responded to an active fire outside Berlin on Saturday.

On Dec. 27, around noon, the Showell Volunteer Fire Company was dispatched to the 8200 block of Circle Road for a reported residential structure fire. Assisting Showell on the initial dispatch were Berlin, Bishopville, and Willards Volunteer Fire Companies.

Upon arrival, fire was reported extending from the right rear of a single-story residential dwelling. Due to the volume of fire and the need for additional water in a non-fire hydrant area, a tanker task force was requested.

The need for more water brought additional units to the scene from the Ocean Pines, Powellville, Pittsville, Ocean City and Selbyville Volunteer Fire Companies.

The dwelling was not occupied at the time of the fire. Firefighters worked for several hours to bring the fire under control and remained on scene for approximately four hours.

Deputies from the Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office responded to conduct an origin and cause investigation. After examining

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

The active fire scene on Circle Road is pictured on Saturday.

the scene, investigators determined the fire originated in a bedroom and the cause of the fire was determined to be accidental and electrical in na-

ture.

The Ocean City Fire Marshal’s Office assisted with investigation efforts at the scene.

No injuries were reported. The single occupant of the residence is being assisted by the American Red Cross.

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JANUARY 2, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

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OC Today-Dispatch

JANUARY 2, 2026

JANUARY 2, 2026

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OC Today-Dispatch

Local artist receives inaugural Taustin award (Jan. 2, 2026) The Art League of Ocean City and the Taustin family have presented Brandon Bell with the inaugural Cheryl M. Taustin Creative Leadership Award. The announcement was made at the Art League’s Annual Meeting & Luncheon on Dec. 11, 2025 at the Princess Royale Hotel.

The fellowship honors the late Cheryl Miller Taustin, a prominent figure in Ocean City and Berlin, who passed suddenly in 2024.

Bell is the founder and muralist behind We Are Limitless Studios headquartered in Salisbury, Md., with the mission to harness the power of public art to impact lives, inspire individuals, and fortify communities.

“Beyond mere aesthetic expressions, we view murals as potent instruments for community-building and civic engagement,” their website states. “We make impactful and large-scale public art murals that empower businesses, organizations, municipalities, and the communities in which they exist.”

Murals created by Bell and his team include the “Smile” mural for the Ocean City Recreation & Parks Center, the HealthPost mural in Newark, Md., the “Warriors Live Here” mural for the City of Pocomoke, and the Baltimore Ravens “Paint the State Purple” mural at the Crown Sports Center in Fruitland.

“I am deeply honored and honestly

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Pictured, from left, are Bonnie Miller, Brianna Mattern, Jay Taustin, Brandon Bell, Cole Taustin and Rina Thaler.

still processing that I was selected as the first-ever recipient…,” Bell said.

“Learning about Cheryl Miller Taustin moved me in a way I did not expect …

As a touring cabaret singer, advocate, educator, mother, and community builder, she used her voice to uplift others, challenge injustice, and celebrate life with grace and courage.”

At the award presentation, Cole Taustin said, “Cheryl Miller Taustin knew that we are not the sum of our productivity or our job, but the strength of our integrity, creativity, and our voice. And she graced so many

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The family also presented Bell with artwork created by son Kyler Taustin entitled, “The Last Heartbeat.” The art is bisected by a printout of his mother’s final heartbeat, “symbolizing the highs and lows of a life filled with joy, equity, love, and harmony,” Taustin stated.

“It is one of the most powerful and intimate artworks I have ever encountered,” Bell said.

The Cheryl M. Taustin Creative Leadership Award recognizes artists, educators, and mentors of any arts medium who demonstrate a synchronicity with Taustin’s commitment to causes of social justice, uplifting the unheard voice, and valuing community and thought-provoking artistry. Exemplified through daring leadership, innovative viewpoints, and generative progress, fellows will carry forward Taustin’s legacy of cultivating a more beautiful and more empathetic community through the arts.

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JANUARY 2, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

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JANUARY 2, 2026

PAGE 29

OC Today-Dispatch

Who’s Where When Wednesdays: Bingo w/ Blake HARBORSIDE 410-213-1846 South Harbor Rd., West End O.C. Friday, January 2: DJ Billy T Saturday, January 3: Cecilia’s Fall & DJ Bigler Sunday, January 4: Opposite Directions Thursdays: Dust N Bones

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PAGE 30

JANUARY 2, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

13th Annual Shared Visions exhibit returns to art center (Jan. 2, 2026) First Friday, Jan. 2, 2026, celebrates a collaboration between visual artists and writers during the 13th annual “Shared Visions” exhibit at the Ocean City Center for the Arts. All are welcome to the free event that runs from 5-7 p.m., and complimentary refreshments will be served.

“Shared Visions” is a collaboration of the literary word and the visual arts. The exhibition features local writers and artist members of the Art League of Ocean City. This year, the writers submitted poems and short prose they had authored, and the artists created works to illustrate their words. The writings will be displayed alongside the paintings, photography, fiber art, and mixed media artwork.

“This is the 13th year for the collaboration,” Rina Thaler, executive director of the Art League, said. “It is an inspired coming-together of words and images and demonstrates the different forms of self-expression.”

On Tuesday, Jan. 20 from 6-8 p.m., the writers will read their poetry and prose during a free event at the Arts Center, and the public is invited. Guests will enjoy complimentary refreshments.

In January, the Sisson Galleria will feature an exhibit entitled “My Happy Place,” an all-media group show

where the artists share the scenes, spaces, and experiences that make them smile. David Hollander will judge the show, and the Art League will award cash prizes to the winners.

Maria Sallese is the artist-in-residence in Studio E in January. A 3D artist, Sallese works in mixed materials of metal, paint, foam, and plywood.

Joyce Rose is the Schwab Spotlight Gallery artist for January. A self-taught painter, she uses acrylic paint to showcase her love of nature.

Maurice Sevigny occupies the Artisan Showcase in January. Sevigny is an accomplished mixed media artist and a one-of-a kind jewelry designer.

The Art League’s satellite galleries also open new shows on First Friday. Carol Bell exhibits her nature-inspired photographic work in the lobby of the Princess Royale Hotel at 9110 Coastal Hwy. Kristin Mallery Hooks is the artist-inresidence at the Coffee Beanery at 94th St. and Coastal Hwy. Arts Center exhibits run through Jan. 31. Satellite gallery exhibits continue through March 28.

The Ocean City Center for the Arts at 502 94th St. is open daily until 4 p.m., and admission is free. More information is available at OCart.org or by calling 410-524-9433.

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Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are independent contractor sales associates and are not employees of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. © 2025 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker is a registered service mark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLS. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Opportunity. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC.

JANUARY 2, 2026

PAGE 31

OC Today-Dispatch

COLLECTION DRIVE

HOROSCOPE ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Students from Worcester Preparatory School gathered last month to donate gifts collected for Worcester County GOLD in support of local families during the holiday season.

In addition to participating in the SGA Food Drive, students and volunteers chose to further give back by organizing a toy collection for Worcester County GOLD. Pictured, from left, are Head of School Dr. Betsy Hornung, Head of Middle School Jake Perry, students Lillian Ha, Brooklyn DeliGatti, Will Schlesinger, Chase Thompson, Tobi Blaska, Vivian Spraul and Head of Upper School Carol Evans.

Strange things are happening, Aries.

It may be better to go with the flow right now. You might like the change that ensues, and the change in pace could be a positive.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Better days are ahead, Taurus. It’s just a matter of having a little patience and waiting a little longer for things to settle down. Start a new project to take your mind off things.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Make the most of time spent with friends and family this week, Gemini.

You may need to step away for a little while, so cherish this time you get to spend with those you love.

CANCER – JUN 22/JUL 22

SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Cancer, someone special is able to take a peek into your inner thoughts this week. Their ability to see you so personally could reinforce your outlook.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 You might feel a bit melancholic as the holiday season nears its end, Leo. It’s understandable based on how much has been going on. Maintain a strong social calendar.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, generosity is an admirable trait, and now is a good time to indulge your love of helping others.

Make a concerted effort to pitch in where your assistance is necessary.

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LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 When one door closes, another door opens, Libra. Look at all of the positive things in your life and embrace the great changes that are coming your way. This is an exciting time for you.

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SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, there are so many things going on right now but you can still function effectively. The pace might be hectic right now, but things will calm down soon enough.

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AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Take a firm hold of your finances for the next few weeks, Aquarius. Overspending could complicate an important relationship if you’re not careful.

Curb any purchases for a few days.

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PAGE 32

JANUARY 2, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

SURF REPORT

The Adventures

Equipment key to winter surfing

of Fatherhood

By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer (Jan. 2, 2026) It looks like we’ve turned another corner in the “getting colder” department.

December has been below average as far as air temperature goes, at least from my viewpoint, plus the water temperature has dropped well into the 40s.

The first day of astronomical winter was the 21at day of December, though meteorologists consider December the 1st to be winter’s first day. For our purposes it really doesn’t make a lot of difference because no matter how it’s viewed, it’s cold! This is especially true when the wind chill factors in, which is a frequent occurrence on the coastline.

As much as the cold season can be difficult it’s not so bad if the surfer has decent equipment. This means a thicker winter wetsuit along with boots, gloves, and a hood or cap of adequate thickness. One can get by with lighter gear for an occasional go out on a warmer day but the water tends to not be so apt to change, especially in the ocean. A sunny day with air temperature in the mid-forties and light or calm winds is not too hard to take but water in the forties is quite cold indeed.

So there you have an up-to-date run down on the air and water. Winter surfing is not for everyone but it can be very unique and satisfying. It seems special to do something that most people would probably think doesn’t make any sense. But therein lays the benefit. Plus there’s no crowds, no traffic, and parking is abundant. There are also a few tricks to make the activity a bit easier. More on that subject in future columns/articles. Cold water surfing is indeed an exceptional experience.

- Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City

by Steve Green (Editor’s Note: Due to early deadlines this week, I dusted off an archive from Christmas week 2009 for republication.) morning spent in the emergency room will surely make this a Christmas I will never forget.

My oldest son, Beckett, is a “bruiser.” I find him hilarious, particularly during meals of late when he consistently points to the high-chair tray and says “down, down, down,” meaning he wants the food put down in front of him now or at least at a quicker clip.

He continued to live up to his nickname on Christmas Day when a mishap involving a box, containing a Diego toilet, and a wall led us to the ER. Christmas morning was a wonderful time, and, although Beckett is just 19 months old, he seemed to be enthralled with what transpired in the house from the time he went to bed on Christmas Eve to the next morning. The transformation was not lost on him. Carson, the 7-week-old, on the other hand, slept through all the excitement nearby.

Pam had Christmas morning all planned out in her head. The idea was to provide a wonderland of sorts for our unsuspecting toddler. Although he does not get the entire Santa Claus and Christmas thing yet, we figured we could still have some fun with him this year.

The plan was to simply let Beckett walk into the Christmas tree room like it was any other morning and capture his reaction on video. It was priceless. He was obviously overwhelmed by it all, repeating in his cute kid voice “wow” and “whoa,” while looking all around the room and clapping his hands in excitement.

After he rummaged through some of the bigger toys and some of his

A

new and cherished board books, we decided to open some gifts ourselves. There we were enjoying the excitement of Christmas morning when we spotted Beckett standing atop the box, which was about eight inches off the floor. This was nothing new and situations like this play out repeatedly around our house.

However, as luck would have it, just before I could get to him to bring him off the box, he clumsily fell backwards, hitting the wall with his head.

The only unusual aspect of this tumble was the fact he hit the corner of the wall. It was a direct hit, splitting open his head with a sizable gash. I was initially unaware how serious it was because he quickly stopped crying. A few minutes later, we were on our way to AGH when we noticed blood in his hair.

As you may recall, this marked the second ER visit for Beckett in the last two months. That initial stop was a completely different experience from the one on Christmas. The previous encounter was highly concerning because he was vomiting and suffering from extreme dehydration. We were worried and troubled over his welfare at the time.

The Christmas day visit was not quite as disturbing. Perhaps it was Beckett’s silly demeanor in the hospital or maybe just the fact it was the second experience.

There was not as much stress this time because we knew this was just a minor injury, one that we would later discover needed only two stitches to heal. Some sizable gash, huh?

It’s simple after a few days to make light of the situation, but there were certainly some uncomfortable moments at the time. It tore me up on that first ER visit to watch Beckett be physically restrained to have some tests run as well as to have an IV put in. This second experience was not any easier when it came to that. It will always be tortuous to wit-

ness my kid be manhandled by strangers, even if it’s for his own good. It’s extremely difficult to watch and I do not see myself ever being able to handle that well.

In this latest round in the ER, my son had to be placed face first on the bed because the cut was on the back of his head. While a burly male nurse pinned him down, the physician stitched him up. Beckett, of course, wailed the entire time, while Pam sang a rendition of “Wheels on the Bus” to try and distract him. Meanwhile, I watched the procedure intently to fight off those silly fatherhood emotions.

Pam and I later wondered if his crying fit was a result of him being restrained or actually the pain, which was supposed to be addressed by a topical anesthetic. I think most of his agitation was because he was immobilized despite his objections.

The entire ER experience lasted less than two hours, and it was a small blip on a busy Christmas day.

In reflecting on the incident, what made the situation so easy to handle, on what could have been a bear of a day, was Beckett’s resilience. I often marvel at kids’ short attention spans and their ability to move past things.

As quickly as they get worked up over something, they are soon relaxed, distracted and interested in something else. They have an uncanny ability to bounce back from something troubling at the time.

As quickly as this incident happened, my kid was over it. He had no problem putting the incident behind him. In fact, he went straight for that Diego box when we walked in the door. That box was soon out of the house.

(The writer is the executive editor of OC Today-Dispatch. He and his wife, Pamela, are proud parents of two boys. This weekly column examines their transition into parenthood and all that goes along with it. E-mail any thoughts to editor@octodaydispatch.com.)

JANUARY 2, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

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Dining Guide ■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$ ■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted —————————————

DOWNTOWN South end to 28th Street ■ BUXY’S SALTY DOG SALOON DRY DOCK 28 28th Street, Ocean City, 410-289-0973, buxys.com, drydockoc.com Destiny has a new home in Ocean City. From the ‘burgh to the beach, Buxy’s is your home away from Pittsburgh. Come see what all the locals already know and have known – Buxy’s is the place to come to meet friends, relax and be social with no attitudes. House specialties include “The” Cheesesteak Sub, Primanti-styled sandwiches, pierogis, egg-rolls and homemade crab dip. Dry Dock also features a full menu with soups, salads, kick starters, pierogis and craft pizza.

■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE 15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, in The Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City 410-2897192, captainstableoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar A local tradition for over 60 years featuring hand cut steaks, premium lobster and perfectly prepared regional seafood. Breakfast daily 7:30-11 a.m. Open daily for dinner: Sunday through Thursday, 4-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4-10 p.m. Happy Hour, seven days a week, 4-6 p.m.

■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT 28th Street Plaza and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100, www.coinspuboc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar American style local restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. Sunday’s early bird specials, all day and all night. Happy Hour; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. with food and drink specials. Open Monday through Friday, 2 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 11:30 a.m. Dine-in, carry out.

■ CORAL REEF RESTAURANT & BAR 17th Street in the Holiday Inn & Suites, Ocean City 410-289-2612, coralreefrestaurant.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Enjoy traditional Eastern Shore cuisine and local favorites that are sure to please your entire party! Choose from a selection of house specialty entrees such as sharables, handhelds and seafood. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Featuring specialty rums. Open daily, 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

■ PICKLES PUB 706 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 410-2894891, picklesoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Easy to find with plenty of free parking, serving lunch, dinner and entire diverse menu until 1 a.m. Also nightly entertainment yearround and a great place to watch all the sports on an ocean of televisions including a giant high-def screen. Also four pool tables on site. Lunch and dinner and entire menu until 1 a.m. Open all year from 11:30 a.m.-2 a.m., seven days a week.

■ PIT & PUB 2706 Philadelphia Ave. and 12701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, pitandpub.com Ocean City’s home of Pulled Pork and the finest barbecue, the legendary 28th Street Pit & Pub and the Northside Pit & Pub are known for serving up delicious smokehouse specialties. Grab a brew and enjoy the live sports action on one of the big screen TVs. Happy hour daily. Family-friendly atmospheres at both locations. Weekend entertainment.

MIDTOWN

29th to 90th streets ■ 32 PALM 32nd Street in The Hilton, Ocean City 410289-2525, 32palm.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Elevated cuisine, locally sourced ingredients and allocated spirits are prominently featured in our lounge and dining room. Open yearround for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Routinely updated menus with the highest quality local ingredients for fresh seafood any time of the year!

■ THE BONFIRE 71st Street, Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, 410524-7171, thebonfirerestaurant.com Celebrating more than 50 years as the best seafood and prime rib buffet in Ocean City. It’s all here – the service, the atmosphere and finest, freshest seafood available and quality meats. Save room for the decadent desserts available as well including homemade donuts.

■ FAGERS ISLAND 201 60th St., Ocean City, 410-524-5500, fagers.com $$ | Full bar Dine on the island with an award-winning bayfront restaurant featuring American & Regional dining with a global influence and popular destination featuring impeccably prepared American and Pacific Rim cuisine. Also enjoy our outdoor decks and bar with live entertainment and 32 wines by the glass. A place where the joy of food & the presence of the table are of utmost importance. Dine on fresh seafood and our famous Prime Rib. Enjoy beautiful sunsets over the water. Open 11 a.m. daily. Fine dine at 4:30 p.m.

■ HOOKED 8003 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410-7234665, hookedoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar A Common Ground Hospitality concept, a passion driven restaurant group servicing the coastal community. The goal is honor creativity and innovation by design. With passion at the heart of everything, unique dining concepts are paired with honest hospitality and wellmade food sourced with fresh local ingredients and seasonal harvests. Craft and full bar available. Open daily 11:30 a.m.

■ LONGBOARD CAFÉ 6701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 443-6645693, longboardcafe.com $$-$$$ | Full bar Casual Dining … Refined. Open for lunch and dinner. A wide range of gourmet burgers, innovative tacos, salads and sandwiches to full dinner entrees featuring fresh local fish prepared in a variety of styles, beef, shellfish and pasta. All our sauces, salsas, dressings, etc. are meticulously house made. We use fresh local sources wherever possible and premium ingredients such as our chuck, brisket and short rib custom blended burgers. Closed Tuesday. Call for reservations.

■ MARLIN MOON RESTAURANT 3301 Atlantic Ave., in the Double Tree Hotel, Ocean City 410-289-1201, marlinmoonocmd.com $$ | Full bar Winner of the Maryland People's choice award, Marlin Moon continues to offer its famous, locally loved dishes and famous happy hour.

Enjoy creatively crafted cocktails, fresh selections from the raw bar and luscious desserts.

Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m., featuring drink specials. Breakfast, 7:30-11:30 a.m.; Lite Fare, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Dinner, 4-10 p.m.; and Bar open noon to 11 p.m.

■ SEACRETS 49th Street, Ocean City 410-524-4900, www.seacrets.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

JANUARY 2, 2026

Open Sunday through Friday at 11 a.m., 10 a.m. on Saturdays, close at 2 a.m. Enjoy a tropical atmosphere and dine under the palms in our outdoor, kid friendly dining area or try a Seacrets Beachin' Cocktails in the Bay with live music every day open to close. The club is open every night in the summer. Try our famous jerk chicken with homemade honey mustard sauce, Pushcart Trio, a true Jamaican dish or a hearty wrap, sandwich or delicious burger. We have it all at Seacrets.

UPTOWN

91st to 146th streets ■ ALBERTINO'S BRICK OVEN & EATERY 13117 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410250-2000, albertinosoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Featuring the best brick oven pizza, always handmade with fresh ingredients, Italian-American mouth-watering seafood specialties, traditional Italian pasta dishes, apps, soups and salads. Full bar with large local craft beer selection.

■ CAROUSEL OCEANFRONT HOTEL & CONDOS 118th Street, Ocean City 800-641-0011, www.carouselhotel.com The Carousel Oceanfront Resort offers a family friendly casual dining experience with their Reef 118 restaurant. Offering dinner Thursday through Saturday from 5-9 p.m., featuring AYCE Crab legs. Serving breakfast on Fridays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. Their new "Go for 2" happy hour features $10 appetizers as a buy one get one free. $1 oysters during all open hours.

■ THE CRAB BAG 13005 Coastal Highway Ocean City, 410250-3337, thecrabbag.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Featuring consistent hot steamed crabs, eat in or carryout. The Crab Bag is also an Eastern Shore style seafood house specializing in preparing and serving the biggest and the best blue crabs available. The extensive menu promises something for everyone. Winter hours, Friday-Sunday, open 11 a.m.

■ CRABCAKE FACTORY USA 120th Street, oceanside, Ocean City, 410250-4900, crabcakefactoryusa.com Full-service family restaurant, carry-out and sports bar. Outside seating available. Menu selections include prime rib, chicken Chesapeake, steamed shrimp, beer battered fish, real Philly cheesesteaks, burgers, and a kids menu. Casual attire, full liquor bar, no reservations. Open Year Round. World-Famous Crabcakes are served all day starting at 8 a.m. and can be packed on ice for you while you are eating breakfast.

■ VISTA ROOFTOP RESTAURANT 13801 Coastal Highway, located in the Fenwick Inn, Ocean City, 410-390-7905, vistarooftopoc.com $$-$$$ | Full bar Enjoy a wonderful meal overlooking the ocean and bay. Some of the most unique views in Ocean City. Steaks, seafood, burgers, soups, salads and lite fare. Happy hour, 3-6 p.m.

New this year is a boozy brunch Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Live music.

FENWICK ISLAND ■ CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE Route 54, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-9885000, CCFBayside.com Same award-winning crab cakes and bloody marys. Enjoy waterfront dining. Full-service family restaurant, carry-out & sports bar. Outside seating available. Open daily year-round.

Menu selections include crab cakes, prime rib, Philly-style cheese steaks, various seafood, kids menu plus full breakfast menu.

■ DIRTY HARRY’S 100 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-539-3020, Beach-net.com/dirtyharrys $ | Kids’ Menu | Full bar Don’t let the name fool you, the food is home cooking at its finest. Owned and operated by Ginny Swann and family for 19 years. Popular for the breakfast but getting rave reviews for

lunch and dinner, too.

■ NANTUCKETS Route 1, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-539-2607, nantucketsrestaurant.com Serving the beach great food and spirits for over 30 years. David and Janet Twining will wow you with the finest foods and drinks in the area. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by what one of the coast’s finest dining establishments has in store for guests. Everything here is a house specialty.

■ TWINING’S LOBSTER SHANTY Rte. 54, Fenwick Island, Del., 302-436-2305, twiningshanty.com Reservations | Kids’ Menu “A funky little place at the edge of town.” Classic New England fare, lobsters, steaks and burgers. Bird watching and magical sunsets await. Open for lunch and dinner. Reservations are suggested.

WEST OCEAN CITY ■ ASSATEAGUE BAR AND GRILL 9636 Stephen Decatur Highway, West Ocean City 443-664-8158, abarngrill.com $$ | Full bar Full service, family friendly, casual dining to please everyone. Offering breakfast lunch and dinner with breakfast being served all day.

Classic American cuisine with a selection of delicious Maryland favorites. Happy hour everyday from 1-6 p.m. with bar specials and tasty bites. Daily specials Monday through Friday. Dine-in and carry-out.

■ BREAKFAST CAFE 12736 Ocean Gateway, Route 50 east, West Ocean City, 410-213-1804, breakfastcafeofoc.com All the traditional breakfast options available here in a casual, diner setting. Open daily closing at 2 p.m.

■ CANTINA LOS AGAVES MEXICAN GRILL 12720 Ocean Gateway #7, West Ocean City 410-390-3914, cantinalosagaves.com $$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar Ocean City’s newest Mexican restaurant and bar. Offering delicious and generous portions of the tastiest traditional and not so traditional #MexicanEats you have ever tried.

Open everyday, 12 noon to 9 p.m., kitchen and bar.

■ DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND West Ocean City: Route 50 east; Boardwalk locations: 501 S. Philadelphia Ave., 49th Street, 123rd Street, Ocean City, dumsersdairyland.com This classic ice cream shop is a tradition for many families. Voted O.C.’s “Best Ice Cream” for the past 20 years, Dumser’s is celebrating decades of serving the shore, and the ‘40sstyle décor takes you back in time. With locations throughout Ocean City, treating your tastebuds to this signature homemade ice cream is easy. The 123rd Street location offers lunch and dinner menus in addition to a wide variety of ice cream treats.

■ GREENE TURTLE WEST Route 611, West Ocean City, 410-213-1500 Proudly serving West Ocean City since January 1999, The Greene Turtle features a beautiful 80-seat dining room, large bar area with 54 TVs with stereo sound and game room with pool tables. With an exciting menu, The Greene Turtle is sure to please with delicious sizzling steaks, jumbo lump crab cakes, raw bar, homemade salads and more. Live entertainment, Keno, Turtle apparel, kids menu, carry-out.

■ HARBORSIDE BAR & GRILL 12841 Harbor Rd., West Ocean City, 410213-1846, weocharborside.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Home of the original Orange Crush drink with an extensive menu offers a wide variety of appetizers, fresh seafood, steak & pasta entrees, as well as juicy burgers and sandwiches. Whether seeking a full dining experience or just a crush or two, the team will be sure to take excellent care of you and yours. Monday-Wednesday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thursday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

JANUARY 2, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

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JANUARY 2, 2026

JANUARY 2, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

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STORY TIME

Tuesdays - Experienced dancers and others interested in watching or learning more are welcome, 7-9:30 p.m. No partner required. Info: TangobytheBeach.com.

Calendar Fri., Jan. 2

Sun., Jan. 4

OC MAHJONG CLUB

SEWING FOR A CAUSE

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Join in for a fun morning of playing tile Mahjong. Feel free to bring your own tile set. All adults welcome. 410-5241818, worcesterlibrary.org

CURRENTLY READING BOOK CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Drop in and discuss what you are currently reading and share it with the group. Get some great ideas for what to read next.

410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

NEW YEAR’S JOURNALS: CREATIVE ART AND WRITING

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 2 p.m. Fire up your creativity with inspiring prompts, inventive writing and spontaneous art.

Journals and supplies provided. For ages 12-18 years. Registration required: 410-957-0878, worcesterlibrary.org.

Sundays - Buckingham Presbyterian Church, 20 S. Main St., Berlin, 10:30 a.m. to noon. Learn how to sew while making a difference. 410-641-0234

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Story time geared for ages 0-5 years featuring seasonal themes designed to support early literacy skills with stories, songs and finger plays. 410-641-0650, worcesterlibrary.org

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

STORY TIME: WINTER

Sundays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 10 a.m. www.jw.org

Mon., Jan. 5 STORY TIME: NATIONAL BIRD DAY

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Crafts, songs and stories. For ages 0-5 years. 410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org

KIGHTS OF COLUMBUS BINGO

Fridays - Knights of Columbus, 9901 Coastal Highway, behind St. Luke’s Church. Doors open at 5 p.m., bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. Light snacks available before bingo and at intermission. 410-524-7994

Sat., Jan. 3 SATURDAY WRITERS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10 a.m. Novice and established writers gather to share their creative writing projects. Structure includes critiques and appreciation, market leads and writing exercises. Drop-ins welcome. 410-641-0650

MOVIE MATINEE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m.

Come see a movie you may have missed in the theaters. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 1 p.m. Young independent readers can practice their literacy skills by reading aloud to a friendly trained dog.

Stop by to sign up for a time slot. Best for children ages 6-11 years. 410-641-0650

OCEAN PINES FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 9 a.m. to noon. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods. Also featuring family-friendly activities, music and unique shopping experiences.

Open to the public, year round. 410-6417052, https://www.oceanpines.org/web/pages /farmers-artisans-market

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m. Master Gardener Ginny Rosenkranz talks about all things plants. Bring any questions and feel free to show your plants as well. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

Mondays - Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 5-6:30 p.m. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a weekly support and educational group promoting weight loss and living a healthy lifestyle. Rose Campion, 410-641-0157

BRIDGE

Mondays - Ocean City 50plus Center, 104 41st Street, Ocean City, 12:30-3:30 p.m. Reserve a spot: Tish, 410-8043971. www.Worcoa.org/oceancity

DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6:00-8:00 p.m. All ladies who love to sing invited.

Elissa, 410-641-8050; on social media; or delmarvachorus.org.

Mondays - Worcester County Library Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 7-8 p.m. No dues or fees. 410-459-9100

Tues., Jan. 6

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m.

Learn how to make a three dimensional snowflake. Registration required: 410524-1818. worcesterlibrary.org

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30 p.m.

Design 3D art. This month the group will be making 3D snowmen using clay.

For ages 6-11 years. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

CROSS FARMS POP-UP FARMERS MARKET Tuesdays - Flower Street Field across from Henry Park, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Accepting Maryland Department of Agriculture FMNP (WIC & Seniors) Checks and Maryland WIC Fruit & Vegetable Checks. Also offering a "Produce Bucks" program, which doubles purchases for eligible residents. https://www.facebook.com/theberlinfarmersmarket.

Tuesdays - Volunteer beach clean-up group meets from 9-10 a.m., year-round. Trash bags, grippers and gloves provided. Check the Facebook page “Beach Heroes-OC” for weekly meeting locations. All are welcome.

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

Tuesdays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 7 p.m. www.jw.org

TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY

BABY TIME

OC KNITTING CLUB

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m.

Songs, rhymes and stories. Stay after to socialize with other families. For ages 0-2 years. 410-632-3495, worcesterlibrary.org

WEIGHT MANAGEMENT AND WELLNESS GROUP

Tuesdays - Holy Trinity Cathedral, 11021 Worcester Highway, 2-2:45 p.m. Use the weight loss program/app/plan of your choice. Free and open to everyone. 410641-4882, www.htcanglican.org/activities.

Wed., Jan. 7 Ocean City Performing Arts Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, 7 p.m. A universal tale of fame, fortune, and all that jazz, with one showstopping song after another. Tickets: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/829988 87/chicago-the-musical-ocean-city-ocperforming-arts-center.

PUZZLE SWAP

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 1-7 p.m. Bring your gently used puzzles and leave with new-to-you puzzles. Don’t have a puzzle to exchange but still want one? That’s OK too. All puzzles must be complete in their original box. 410-641-0650

DEMYSTIFYING THE SYMPHONY

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. This is a four-session course that familiarizes attendees with the music, etiquette and experience of contemporary orchestras.

Held Wednesdays in January. Registration required: 410-208-4014.

BEACH HEROES-OC

OC KNITTING GROUP

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Bring whatever project you happen to be working on. 410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org

Tuesdays - Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 5:30 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com

CHICAGO THE MUSICAL

AFTERSCHOOL ART T.O.P.S. OF BERLIN - GROUP #169

OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS PAWS & READING

MASTER GARDENERS PLANT CLINIC

3-D SNOWFLAKES

FIRST FRIDAY- JANUARY 2026

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., Ocean City, 5-7 p.m. Art League of Ocean City’s free monthly unveiling of new artwork. 410-524-9433

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 10:30 a.m. Songs, rhymes and stories. For ages 0-5 years.

410-957-0878, worcesterlibrary.org

ZUMBA TONING TUESDAYS

Tuesdays - Worcester County Health Department, 9730 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3:30-4:30 p.m. TOPS is a weekly support and education group promoting weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. 410-289-4725

Tuesdays - Worcester County Library Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m.

ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE

WACKY WEATHER

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 4:30 p.m.

Explore the science behind wild weather with fun hands-on activities. For ages 6-11 years: 410-524-1818. worcesterlibrary.org

Continued on Page 38

Crossword answers from page 38

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OC Today-Dispatch

CALENDAR Continued from Page 37 KIDS PAINT NIGHT Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 5:30-6:30 p.m. All materials and instruction provided. For ages 8 years and older. Cost is $22. Preregistration required: 410-641-7052.

KIWANIS CLUB MEETING Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m.

Doors open at 7:30 a.m. Last Wednesday of the month meetings are offsite and information can be found on the website and Facebook. www.kiwanisofopoc.org.

JANUARY 2, 2026

CROSSWORD PLAY TIME Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Join in for a variety of activities and toys. Play and socialize with other families. For ages 2-5 years. 410-632-3495, worcesterlibrary.org

MERRY MAKERS: WINTER SCENE TERRARIUM Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Using various artificial materials, create a winter wonderland scene inside a mini terrarium.

No watering required. Registration required: 410-208-4014. worcesterlibrary.org

CASH BINGO Wednesdays - Ocean City Elks Lodge 2645, 13708 Sinepuxent Ave. Door open at 5 p.m., bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. Food available before bingo and at intermission. Open to the public. 443-605-5028

Thurs., Jan. 8 OC CHESS CLUB Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Enjoy a relaxing game of chess at the library. 410-524-1818. worcesterlibrary.org

STORY TIME: SNOWMAN Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m.

Crafts, songs and stories. For ages 2-5 years. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

BINGO Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m.

Play a lively game of Bingo and win fun prizes. 410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org

YOGA BASICS FOR BEGINNERS Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 5 p.m. Build confidence and familiarity with foundational yoga poses. Bring your own mat. 410957-0878, worcesterlibrary.org

DRY PANTRY Thursdays - St. Paul United Methodist Church, 405 Flower Street, Berlin, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. For those in need of resources such as paper products, laundry products, baby items, and personal care items. Limits apply. 410-641-0270

Answers on page 37

Your communitY online for a new home?

Looking Check out the

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JANUARY 2, 2026

39

OC Today-Dispatch

Call 410-723-6397 or email classifieds@octodaydispatch.com

by Monday, 5 p.m.

Classifieds appear in OC Today-Dispatch & Bayside Gazette each week & online at octodaydispatch.com & baysideoc.com

MARKETPLACE HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

RENTALS

eds lassifi

YR OCEAN PINES Available Immediately!

3BR, 2BA Central HVAC All Appliances Incl.

No Pets. $2,300 per month + $2,300 sec. dep.

410-404-8851

C NOW HIRING!!

Production Crew for our WOC kitchen facility Up to $20/hr.

Apply online at: www.delmarvadd.com

410-723-6397 baysideoc.com octodaydispatch.com

Join the Sea Colony East Maintenance Team!

Now hiring high rise condominium/full time building maintenance techs.

Great Benefit plan/paid time off!

Apply online at troon.com/careers - company location Sea Colony Assoc East or email bethann.steele@seacolony.com or call 302-541-8831 for an interview

RENTALS LONG TERM WINTER RENTAL Utililites Included CONTACT US AT burgundyinn@gmail.com 410-289-8581

Yearly & Seasonal Rentals

Seeking Year-Round Rentals!

Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555.

COMMERCIAL

We Welcome Pets 7700 Coastal Hwy 410-524-7700 www.holidayoc.com

Commercial Space for Lease ONLY 1 UNIT LEFT!

AFFORDABLE TWO BEDROOM APARTMENTS Low and Moderate Income

Currently Hiring Manpower For:

Carpenter | Laborer | Painters Stucco & EIFS Mechanics Concrete Work o Experience preferred. o Tools, transportation & valid driver’s license are a plus. o Excellent pay and a competitive benefits package available.

Please Apply Online: https://www.allstatesconst.com/delmarva-renovations-careers

Or Contact Our Office at 410-352-9800

~ Accessible Units and Facilities Available ~ Air Conditioning ~ Kitchen-Furnished w/Range & Refrigerator ~ Wall-to-Wall Carpet ~ On-Site Laundry Facilities ~ One Year Lease Call Us Now To See If You Qualify!

410-641-0830 TTY users via MRS Dial 711

REEDY COVE APARTMENTS Germantown Rd., Berlin, MD 21811 This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

It’s not too late to advertise your winter rentals.

GET IT RENTED HERE! 410-723-6397 www.octodaydispatch.com www.baysideoc.com

WANT TO BUY

2-3 Units available, can be divided or joined.

Approx. 1000 sq. ft.

Busy major road in Town of Berlin.

Call 443-880-8885 for more information.

I BUY ALBUMS! 410-430-5349

2 Office/Retail Spaces available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft. and 1728 sq. ft.

Call 443-497-4200

YR OCEAN PINES Available Immediately!

South Gate Cul de Sac Recently renovated Unfurnished 4BR, 2BA Screened in porch, Central HVAC No smoking/pets $2,500 per mo. + util’s & sec. dep.

410-404-8851

Classifieds 410-723-6397

COMMERCIAL

Classifieds 410-723-6397

COMMERCIAL SPACE Rt. 611, Stephen Decatur Business Center.

Large unit with 5 individual office spaces within. $2,400 per mo.

410-430-7675 Industrial Space Yard and Storage Shed.

Approx. 10x25+/Route 90/Bishopville.

Call 443-497-4200

DONATIONS Do you have an old bicycle not being used? It could mean a world of difference to a hard-working international student. We are looking to get as many bikes as possible. Your donation will be tax-deductible. Contact Gary at 443-975-3065.

FOR SALE CEMETERY PLOT For Sale Sunset Memorial Park Plot #171-C $650 ($1,000 Value) Rt 50, Berlin MD Call 410-641-1734

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PAGE 40

JANUARY 2, 2026

DIRECTORY BLINDS / SHADES

CARPET CLEANING

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James Sanderson 36772 West Point Circle • Selbyville, DE 19975 302-436-7280 • www.garrettconst.com HANDYMAN SERVICES

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PAGE 41

OC Today-Dispatch

DIRECTORY MEN’S HAIR SERVICES

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PAGE 42

OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland

Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland

PROPOSAL SOLICITATION

PROPOSAL SOLICITATION

B08-26 – Winter Harbor Drive Bulkhead Replacement The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Winter Harbor Drive Bulkhead Replacement and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.

BID Documents for the Winter Harbor Drive Bulkhead Replacement may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Leonard at dleonard@oceancitymd.gov, or by calling (410) 723-6643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their BID’s. The Town is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any third-party service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.

A Pre-BID Meeting will be held on TUESDAY, JANUARY 13TH, 2026 AT 9:00AM, AT THE WINTER HARBOR DRIVE BULKHEAD, 165 WINTER HARBOR DRIVE, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842. The last day for questions will be on TUESDAY, JANUARY 27TH, 2026 AT 4:00PM. Addendum will be posted by close of business on WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28TH, 2026.

Sealed BID Documents are due no later than TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 3RD, 2026, BY 4:00PM. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the PROCUREMENT CONFERENCE ROOM, ON WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 4TH, 2026, AT 10:00AM. BID’s are to be submitted to the Town of Ocean City Procurement Department, Attention: Procurement Manager; 214 65th Street, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (Winter Harbor Drive Bulkhead Replacement) must be noted on the outside of the package.

Late BID Documents will not be accepted.

Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation.

OCTD 1/1/5T

B09-26 – Old Landing Road Bulkhead Replacement The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Old Landing Road Bulkhead Replacement and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents. BID Documents for the Old Landing Road Bulkhead Replacement may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Leonard at dleonard@oceancitymd.gov, or by calling (410) 723-6643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their BID’s. The Town is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any third-party service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.

A Pre-BID Meeting will be held on TUESDAY, JANUARY 13TH, 2026 AT 10:00AM, AT THE OLD LANDING ROAD BULKHEAD, 164 OLD LANDING ROAD, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842. The last day for questions will be on TUESDAY, JANUARY 27TH, 2026 AT 4:00PM. Addendum will be posted by close of business on WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28TH, 2026.

Sealed BID Documents are due no later than TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 3RD, 2026, BY 4:00PM. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the PROCUREMENT CONFERENCE ROOM, ON WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 4TH, 2026, AT 10:00AM. BID’s are to be submitted to the Town of Ocean City Procurement Department, Attention: Procurement Manager; 214 65th Street, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (Old Landing Road Bulkhead Replacement) must be noted on the outside of the package.

Late BID Documents will not be accepted.

Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation.

OCDT 1/1 5T

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR CONTRACTOR PROJECT MANAGER NEW BETHEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS New Bethel United Methodist Church is seeking proposals for a Contractor/Project Manager to oversee exterior projects at the church to include outside drainage, commercial gutters and spouts (facia), steeple repair, back ramp and steps front and back, window woodwork and replacement of outside plexiglass and pillars in front of the church.

Location: New Bethel United Methodist Church, 10203 Germantown Rd. Berlin, Md. 21811 Issue Date: 01/01 /26 Due Date and Time: 02/06/26, 5:00 pm Projects are funded by the Maryland Historical Trust. All work must comply with the Secretary’s Standard and all regulations.

Proposals must be received in hard copy or via email no later than 5:00 PM on 02/06/2026 at 10203 Germantown Road, Berlin, Maryland 21811. You may request the scope of work by emailing nbumc@comcast.net or by calling Wilbur Pitts (443) 768-2748 or Beverly Manuel (410) 603- 5890.

Rosenberg & Associates, LLC 4340 East West Highway, Suite 600 Bethesda, MD 20814 (301) 907-8000 www.rosenberg-assoc.com

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES’ SALE

OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY 35 TAIL OF THE FOX DRIVE BERLIN A/R/T/A OCEAN PINES, MD 21811 Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from William J. McGraw dated May 20, 2022 and recorded in Liber 8393, folio 494 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on JANUARY 13, 2026 AT 3:55 PM ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND, together with the buildings and improvements thereon situated in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. Tax ID #03-039560.

The property, which is improved by a dwelling, will be sold in an "as is" condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and

JANUARY 2, 2026 with no warranty of any kind.

The property will be sold subject to a prior mortgage, the amount to be announced at the time of sale.

Terms of Sale: A deposit of $19,000 in the form of certified check, cashier's check or money order will be required of the purchaser at time and place of sale. Balance of the purchase price to be paid in cash within ten days of final ratification of sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County. Interest to be paid on the unpaid purchase money at the rate pursuant to the Deed of Trust Note from the date of sale to the date funds are received in the office of the Trustees. There will be no abatement of interest in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement or if settlement is delayed for any reason. The noteholder shall not be obligated to pay interest if it is the purchaser. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE FOR THE PURCHASER. There will be no reduction of interest due to overpayment of deposit. Adjustment of all real property taxes (excluding recapture of previously reduced or exempt taxes) and any other public charges or assessments, to the extent such amount survive foreclosure sale, including water/sewer charges, and ground rent to be adjusted to date of sale and paid at execution of the deed, except where the secured party is the purchaser, and thereafter assumed by the purchaser. All due and/or unpaid private utility, water and sewer facilities charges, condo/HOA assessments and Columbia Assoc. assessments, to the extent such amount survive foreclosure sale, are payable by the purchaser without adjustment. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes, recaptured taxes (including but not limited to agricultural taxes), and settlement expenses shall be borne by the purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. Purchaser assumes the risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale forward. Additional terms to be announced at the time of sale.

If the Trustees are unable to convey good and marketable title, the purchaser's sole remedy in law and equity shall be limited to a refund of the deposit without interest. If the purchaser fails to go to settlement, subject to order of the court, the entire deposit (including any amount received over the advertised deposit amount) shall be forfeited to the Trustees as liquidated damages for all losses occasioned by the purchaser's default and purchaser shall have no further liability. In the event of a resale, the defaulting purchaser shall not be entitled to receive the surplus, if any, even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulting purchaser and the defaulting purchaser shall be liable to the Trustees and secured party for reasonable attorney’s fees and expenses incurred in connection with all litigation involving the Property or the proceeds of the resale. Defaulting purchaser waives personal service of any document filed in connection with such a motion on him/herself and/or any principal or corporate designee, and

JANUARY 2, 2026 expressly agrees to accept service of any such document by regular mail directed to the address provided by said purchaser at the time of the foreclosure auction. Trustees' file number 25-003808-MD-F-2.

Diane S. Rosenberg, Mark D. Meyer, et al., Trustees

OCD-12/25/3t _________________________________ COHN, GOLDBERG & DEUTSCH, LLC 1099 WINTERSON ROAD, SUITE 301 LINTHICUM HEIGHTS, MARYLAND 21090 www.cgd-law.com/sales

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE

OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY 1 FREEPORT LANE BERLIN, MD 21811 By authority contained in a Deed of Trust dated July 24, 2012 and recorded in Liber 5943, Folio 020, among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, with an original principal balance of $335,175.00, and an interest rate of 3.875%, default having occurred thereunder, the Substitute Trustees will sell at public auction at the Courthouse door for the Circuit Court for Worcester County, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863, on January 5, 2026 AT 11:00 AM ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE property more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The property is improved by a dwelling.

Terms of Sale: The property will be sold “as is” subject to any conditions, restrictions, easements and agreements of record affecting same with no warranty of any kind. A deposit of $28,000.00 by certified funds only (no cash accepted) required at time of auction. Balance of the purchase price to be paid within 10 days of ratification of sale by the Court, with interest at the note rate from date of sale to settlement. If settlement is delayed for ANY reason, there shall be no abatement of interest or taxes. All private utility, water and sewer facilities charges, front foot benefit payments, ground rent, or condo/HOA assessments, not otherwise divested by ratification of the sale are payable by purchaser without adjustment. Real estate taxes and all other public charges, or assessments, to be adjusted as of date of sale. Transfer and recordation taxes, and all other costs incident to settlement, shall be borne by purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property.

TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE. If purchaser fails to go to settlement within ten days of ratification, or otherwise fails to comply with the terms of sale, the Trustee may de-

OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices clare the entire deposit forfeited and resell the property at the risk and expense of defaulting purchaser, who agrees to pay reasonable attorneys' fees and costs if a motion to resell the property has been filed, purchaser waives personal service of any paper filed in connection with such motion, and agrees to accept service of any such paper by regular mail to the address provided at time of sale. If the Trustee cannot convey insurable title, or the loan servicer determines that the sale should not have occurred, the sale shall be null and void, and purchaser's sole remedy shall be the return of deposit without interest.

Potential Bidders: For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 2802832.

Richard E. Solomon, et al., Sub. Trustees Tidewater Auctions, LLC (410) 825-2900 www.tidewaterauctions.com www.Auction.com CGD File #: 464084 OCD-12/18/3t _________________________________ Piel Law Firm, LLC 502 Washington Avenue, Suite 730 Towson, Maryland 21204

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES’ SALE RESIDENTIAL REAL PROPERTY

400 2ND STREET A/R/T/A 400 SECOND STREET POCOMOKE CITY, MARYLAND 21851 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust and Assignment of Leases and Rents executed by RLuxury Rentals Limited Liability Company, also known as R-Luxury Rentals, LLC, and dated January 18, 2024, and recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, at Liber 8701, folio 93 (the “Deed of Trust”), the holder of the indebtedness secured by the Deed of Trust (the “Noteholder”) having subsequently appointed Hunter C. Piel and Scott B. Wheat (collectively, the “Substitute Trustees”) as Substitute Trustees by instrument duly executed, acknowledged and recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland for the purposes therein contained, default having occurred under the terms of the Deed of Trust, the Substitute Trustees will offer for sale at public auction to the highest qualified bidder at the steps of the Circuit Court for Worcester County located at One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863, on: Tuesday, January 6, 2026 at 3:55 p.m.

ALL OF THAT real property being situate in Worcester County, Maryland, and the improvements thereon (collectively, the “Property”), in fee simple, being more particularly described in the Deed of Trust,

and generally known as 400 Second Street, Pocomoke City, Maryland 21851, Tax ID No.: 01-017969.

TERMS OF SALE: A deposit in the amount of Seven Thousand Dollars ($7,000.00), payable in cash, certified check, or other form acceptable to the Substitute Trustees, in their sole and absolute discretion, will be required of the purchaser(s) at the time and place of sale. The deposit must be increased to 10% of the purchase price within two (2) business days, and delivered to the office of the Substitute Trustees in the same form as the initial deposit. The balance of the purchase price shall be due in cash or by certified check with interest on the unpaid balance of the purchase price at the rate of ten percent (10%) per annum from the date of sale to and including the date of settlement. In the event the Noteholder, or an affiliate thereof, is the successful bidder at the sale, such party will not be required to make a deposit or to pay interest on the unpaid purchase money. Taxes, water charges, ground rent, if any, and all other municipal charges and liens owed against the Property shall be the sole responsibility of the purchaser(s) and shall be paid for by the purchaser(s) at settlement. In addition, all other charges, expenses and liens owed against the Property including, but not limited to, all condominium fees and expenses and public charges and assessments owed against the Property and payable on an annual basis, such as sanitary and/or metropolitan district charges, if any, shall also be the responsibility of the purchaser(s) and shall be paid by the purchaser(s) at settlement.

The Substitute Trustees reserve the right to reject any and all bids, and to extend the time for settlement, if applicable. In the event taxes or other municipal charges owing on or with respect to the Property have been prepaid they shall be adjusted at settlement between the Substitute Trustees and the purchaser(s) to the date of the foreclosure sale.

The Property will be sold in an "AS IS" condition and without any warranties or representations, either express or implied, as to the nature, condition or description of the improvements. In addition, the Property will also be sold subject to all existing housing, building and zoning code violations, and any receivership actions relating thereto, subject to all critical area and wetland violations, subject to all environmental problems and violations which may exist on or with respect to the Property, and subject to all matters and restrictions of record affecting the same, if any. The purchaser(s) at the foreclosure sale shall assume the risk of loss for the above-referenced Property immediately after the sale takes place. It shall be the purchaser(s)’ responsibility to obtain possession of the Property following ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland.

The Property will be sold subject to all of the following that are not extinguished as a matter of law by the foreclosure sale: all easements, conditions, liens, restrictions, rights of

PAGE 43 redemption, covenants, encumbrances, ground rents, ground leases, such state of facts that an accurate survey or physical inspection of the Property might disclose, and agreements of record affecting the same, if any.

The purchaser(s) shall pay all documentary stamps, state and local transfer taxes, recordation taxes and fees, title examination costs, attorneys’ fees, conveyance fees and all other incidental settlement costs.

The purchaser(s) shall settle and comply with the sale terms within twenty (20) days following the final ratification of sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, unless said period is extended by the Substitute Trustees for good cause shown. Time is of the essence.

In the event the purchaser(s) fails to go to settlement as required, in addition to any other legal or equitable remedies available, the Substitute Trustees may, without further order of the court, declare the aforementioned deposit forfeited and resell the Property at the purchaser’s sole risk and expense. In such event, the defaulting purchaser(s) shall be liable for the payment of any deficiency in the purchase price, all costs and expenses of both sales, reasonable attorneys’ fees, all other charges due, and incidental damages. The parties’ respective rights and obligations regarding the terms of sale and the conduct of the sale shall be governed by and interpreted according to the laws of the State of Maryland.

If the Substitute Trustees are unable to convey the Property as described above, the purchaser(s)' sole remedy at law or in equity shall be limited to the refund of the aforementioned deposit, without interest thereon. Upon refund of the deposit to the purchaser(s), the sale shall be void and of no effect, and the purchaser(s) shall have no further claim against the Substitute Trustees or the Noteholder.

The information contained herein was obtained from sources deemed to be reliable, but is offered for informational purposes only. The Auctioneer, the Noteholder and the Substitute Trustees do not make any representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy of this information.

Hunter C. Piel, Scott B. Wheat Substitute Trustees For further information, contact: Hunter C. Piel, Esquire Piel Law Firm, LLC 502 Washington Avenue, Suite 730 Towson, Maryland 21204 (410) 849-4888

OCD-12/18/3t _________________________________

OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices

PAGE 44 Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland

OF SNOW HILL, MARYLAND

PROPOSAL SOLICITATION

Tuesday, January 20th, 2026 at 5:30 PM

P02-26 – Eagles Landing Golf Course Improvements II The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Eagles Landing Golf Course Improvements II and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.

BID Documents for the Eagles Landing Golf Course Improvements II may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Leonard at dleonard@oceancitymd.gov, or by calling (410) 723-6643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their BID’s. The Town is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any thirdparty service.

Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.

A Pre-Proposal Meeting will be held on WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10TH, 2025 AT 8:00AM, IN THE EAGLES LANDING GOLF COURSE CLUBHOUSE PARKING LOT, 12367 EAGLES NEST ROAD, BERLIN, MARYLAND 21811. The last day for questions will be on THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18TH, 2025, AT 3:00PM. Addendum will be posted by close of business on FRIDAY, OCTOBER 19TH, 2025.

Sealed BID Documents are due no later than TUESDAY, JANUARY 6TH, 2026, BY 3:00 PM. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the PROCUREMENT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, ON FRIDAY, JANUARY 9TH, 2026, AT 10:00AM. BID’s are to be submitted to the Procurement Office located at 214 65th Street, Ocean City, MD 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (Eagles Landing Golf Course Improvements II) must be noted on the outside of the package.

Late BID Documents will not be accepted.

Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation.

Matt Perry Procurement Manager Town of Ocean City, Maryland OCD-11/20/8t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF PUBLIC HEARING MAYOR & COUNCIL

Pursuant to the provisions of the Local Government Article Section 4406 of the Annotated Code of Maryland notice is hereby given that a PUBLIC HEARING is scheduled on Tuesday, January 20th, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. at the meeting of the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill at Worcester County Government Center, Boardroom, Room 1102, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863. The purpose of the hearing is to consider a resolution to: ANNEX CERTAIN LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN AND TO AMEND THE TOWN OF SNOW HILL CHARTER SECTION 3 ENTITLED “DESCRIPTION OF CORPORATE BOUNDARIES” BY ADDING SAID CERTAIN LANDS TO THE CORPORATE BOUNDARIES OF THE TOWN OF SNOW HILL, specifically the Town of Snow Hill’s water well located on Coulbourne Lane, Tax Map 63, Parcel 177; the Snow Hill Middle School and Cedar Chapel School (Tax Map 201, Parcel 1708); Snow Hill Elementary School (Tax Map 63, Parcel 144); 410 Coulbourne Lane (Tax Map 201, Parcel 1711, Part of Lot 1, approximately .027 acres) to correct specifically that the entirety of Lot 1 located at 410 Coulbourne Lane be located in the Town of Snow Hill municipal limits, and Coulbourne Lane between Market Street and the Town of Snow Hill municipal limits.

The proposed zoning for the properties is as follows: 1. Tax Map 201, Parcel 708- R-1 2, Tax Map 63, Parcel 144- R-1 3. Tax Map 301, Parcel 711, Lot 1R-2 as it is today 4. Tax Map 63, Parcel 177 (Town well)- R-1 All properties owners have consented to the annexation. All properties are already served by Town of Snow Hill water and wastewater The public is cordially invited to attend and offer comments. For further information concerning this public hearing, for a copy of the annexation resolution or the annexation plan please contact the Town Manager’s Office, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, Maryland, 21863, #410632-2080.

OCD-12/11/4t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF PASSAGE OF EMERGENCY BILL 25-06 WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Take Notice that Bill 25-06 (Taxation – Homestead Property Tax Credit) was passed by Commissioners Abbott, Bertino, Bunting, Elder, Fiori, Mitrecic, and Purnell on November 18, 2025.

A fair summary of the bill is as follows: § TR 1-601 Hotel Rental Tax. (Amends the subsection to increase the hotel rental tax percentage that may be imposed from five percent to six percent.)

This is only a fair summary of the

bill. A full copy of the bill is posted on the Legislative Bulletin Board in the main hall of the Worcester County Government Center outside Room 1103, is available for public inspection in Room 1103 of the Worcester County Government Center once County Government Offices are opened to the public. In the interim, a full copy of the bill is available on the County Website at www.co.worcester.md.us.

THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OCD-12/18/3t _________________________________ DAVID W. SIMPSON JR., ESQ. P.O. BOX 3496 OCEAN CITY, MD 21843

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20942 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF STEPHEN G. DRESSMAN Notice is given that Ellen Dressman, P.O. Box 596, 6 Madrone Ave., Inverness, CA 94937-0596, was on December 10, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Stephen G. Dressman who died on November 27, 2025, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 10th day of June, 2026.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 10th day of June, 2026.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Ellen Dressman Personal Representative True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication:

JANUARY 2, 2026 December 18, 2025 OCD-12/18/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20556 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF DARRELL RICHARDSON Notice is given that Brenda Arnold, 135 Rigsby Rd., Crab Orchard, KY 40419-8767, was on December 11, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Darrell Richardson who died on February 09, 2025, without a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 11th day of June, 2026.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 11th day of June, 2026.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Brenda Arnold Personal Representative True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: December 18, 2025 OCD-12/18/3t _________________________________ JAMES E. CLUBB, JR., ESQ. 108 N. 8TH.STREET OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842 COUNCIL OF UNIT OWNERS OF OCEAN TIME CONDOMINIUM, INC. c/o Paradise Realty 12505 Coastal Highway, Suite 11 Ocean City, MD 21842 Plaintiff v.

CAROLYN F. BAGINSKI

JANUARY 2, 2026 et al.

Defendants IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-25-000193

NOTICE

ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland this 15th day of December, 2025, that the foreclosure sale of the properties mentioned in these proceedings, made and reported by James E. Clubb, Jr., Trustee, be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before 19th day of January, 2026, provided a copy of this order be inserted in some weekly newspaper printed in Worcester County, Maryland once in each of three successive weeks, before 12th day of January, 2026.

The Report of Sale filed in the above case states the amount of the sales to be as indicated below for the referenced time-share intervals: Price Timeshare Wk 41, #102 $50.00 Wk 51, #102 $50.00 Wk 37, #104 $50.00 Wk 11, #105 $50.00 Wk 38, #202 $50.00 Wk 17, #204 $50.00 Wk 12, #301 $50.00 Wk 8, #405 $50.00 Wk 15, #405 $50.00 Wk 41, #405 $50.00 Wk 2, #406 $50.00 Wk 49, #406 $50.00 Wk 11, #502 $50.00 Wk 25, #502 $50.00 Wk 17, #503 $50.00 Wk 5, #504 $50.00 Susan Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, Maryland True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-12/25/3t _________________________________ JAMES W. ALMAND ESQ AYRES JENKINS GORDY & ALMAND, PA 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of HAROLD RANDOLPH MACKNET SR Estate No. 20941 Notice is given that DONNA GRACE MACKNET whose address is PO BOX 19594 RENO, NV 89511-2128 was on DECEMBER 16, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of HAROLD RANDOLPH MACKNET SR who died on OCTOBER 05, 2025 with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or be-

PAGE 45

OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices fore the 16th day of JUNE, 2026.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 16th day of JUNE, 2026.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-12/25/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

Mary Patterson, Plaintiff, has filed a complaint entitled Verified Complaint and Petition for Sale in Lieu of Partition in which she is seeking “the Court is requested to order the Defendant to provide an accounting and evidence of all amounts spent on the Property’s maintenance, improvement, upkeep, and related payments, including mortgage, taxes, insurance, and improvements; order the sale of the Property in lieu of partition’ direct the first distribution of sale proceeds to First National Bank of Pennsylvania to satisfy the Deed of Trust; direct the second distribution to the Defendant to compensate her for contributions toward the Property; direct the third distribution to Ms. Patterson to cover all costs, including attorneys’ fees, title report costs, and other appropriate expenses; and order that the remaining proceeds be distributed to Ms. Patterson.”

Notice is hereby issued by the Circuit Court for Anne Arundel, Maryland that the relief sought in the aforementioned Verified Complaint and Petition for Sale in Lieu of Partition may be granted unless cause be shown to the contrary.

Defendant, Kimberly Westra is to file a response to the Verified Complaint and Petition for Sale in Lieu of Partition or before January 24, 2026.

Failure to file the response within the time allowed may result in a judgment by default or the granting of the relief sought.

OCD-12/25/3t _________________________________ MEEGAN KENNEDY WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON LLP 3509 COASTAL HWY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3334

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of MARY T DELANEY Estate No. 20947 Notice is given that DONNA REID whose address is 28197 OCEAN DR SELBYVILLE, DE 19975-4397, DIANNE DENMARK whose address is 508 BAYSHORE DR UNIT 3 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-6188 were on DECEMBER 16, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MARY T DELANEY who died on SEPTEMBER 18, 2025 with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 16th day of JUNE, 2026.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 16th day of JUNE, 2026.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-12/25/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF PUBLIC HEARING WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS AGENDA THURSDAY JANUARY 8, 2026 Pursuant to the provisions of the Worcester County Zoning Ordinance, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held in-person before the Board of Zoning Appeals for Worcester County, in the Board Room (Room 1102) on the first floor of the Worcester County Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland. Audio and video recording will take place during this public hearing.

The public is invited to view this meeting live online at https://worcestercountymd.swagit.co m/live

6:30 p.m. Case No. 26-2, on the lands of the Janice E. Kosko Living Trust, on the application of Katrina Durski, requesting an after-the-fact variance to the rear yard setback from 30 feet to 28.6 feet (to encroach 1.4 feet) for an existing deck in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(4), ZS 1-206(b)(2) and ZS 1305, located at 6 Decatur Court, Tax Map 16, Parcel 42, Section 5, Lot 238, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:35 p.m. Case No. 26-3, on the lands of JeanMarie Richardson and Steven Katz, on the application of Greg Wilkins, requesting a variance to the front yard setback from 25 feet to 17.93 feet (to encroach 7.07 feet) for a proposed porch with steps in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-206(b)(2) and ZS 1305, located at 10356 New Quay Road, Tax Map 21, Parcel 8, Section A, Block 8, Lot 8, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:40 p.m. Case No. 26-1, on the lands of the Ocean Pines Association Inc., on the application of Milestone Towers, requesting a special exception to allow a 150 foot tall camouflaged monopole in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(3), ZS 1-206(c)(15) and ZS 1-343, located at 98 Clubhouse Drive west of the Ocean Pines golf course maintenance building, Tax Map 16, Parcel 56, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

OCD-12/25/2t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF INTRODUCTION OF BILL 25-07 WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Take Notice that Bill 25-07 (Zoning – Off-street parking clear height) was introduced by Commissioners Bertino, Bunting, Elder, Fiori, Mitrecic, and Purnell on November 18, 2025. A fair summary of the bill is as follows: Add a new subsection § ZS 1320(b)(2) of the Zoning and Subdivision Control Article to establish a minimum clear height for required off-street parking provided in an enclosed or covered structure in twofamily, multi-family, and townhouse dwelling units.

A Public Hearing will be held at the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Room 1101 – Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at 10:30 AM. This is only a fair summary of the bill. A full copy of the bill is available for public inspection in the main hall of the Worcester County Government Center outside Room 1103. In addition, a full copy of the bill is available on the county website at www.co.worcester.md.us.

THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OCD-12/25/2t _________________________________ RAYMOND D. COATES JR, ESQ COATES,COATES, & COATES, P.A.

OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices

PAGE 46 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES ESTATE NO. 20948 NOTICE IS GIVEN that the COMBINED court of ARAPAHOE COUNTY, COLORADO appointed MARY LYNNE GREENBAUM whose address is 6743 W GOULD DR LITTLETON, CO 80123-5112 as the PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE of the Estate of MARIAN R CLAUSSEN who died on APRIL 16, 2025 domiciled in COLORADO, USA. The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is RAYMOND D COATES JR whose address is 6200 COASTAL HWY STE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-6698. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: WORCESTER. All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-12/25/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

of Public Hearing Worcester County Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund The Worcester County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing to receive comments on the proposed Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund (CRRF) plan on: Tuesday, January 6, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. in the County Commissioners’ Meeting Room Room 1101 Government Center, One West Market Street Snow Hill, Maryland 21863 The CRRF was established under Maryland’s Cannabis Reform Act of 2023 to support community-based initiatives benefiting low-income communities and those disproportionately impacted by cannabis law enforcement. Worcester County’s proposed plan outlines the distribution and management of CRRF funds through the Worcester County

Local Management Board, including funding priorities such as behavioral health services, education programs, housing initiatives, and workforce development.

Copies of the plan are available in the County Commissioners’ Office, Room 1103 of the County Government Center in Snow Hill or online at www.co.worcester.md.us.

THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OCD-12/25/2t _________________________________ LAWS, INSLEY & BENSON, P.A. VICTOR H. LAWS, ESQ. 209 E. MAIN ST., P.O. BOX 75 SALSBURY, MD 21803-0075

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 20949 NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Circuit court of Shenandoah County, Virginia appointed Marie Dilorenzo, 212 S. Washington St., Winchester, VA 22601-4029 as the Executor of the Estate of Thomas E. Marfing Jr. who died on September 25, 2018 domiciled in Virginia, USA. The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is Victor H. Laws III, 109 E. Main St., Salisbury, MD 218014922.

At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: Worcester County.

All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

Marie Dilorenzo Foreign Personal Representative Terri Westcott Register of Wills One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of Newspaper: Ocean City Digest Date of first publication: December 25, 2025 OCD-12/25/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF PUBLIC HEARINGS BOARD OF PORT WARDENS Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 106 ”Waterways,” Article II

– “Shoreline Development” of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Port Wardens Ordinance of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland.

Thursday, January 8th, 2:00 PM PW 26-003 A request has been submitted to install one 10’ x 14’ floating platform, maximum channelward extension 15’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 10602 SHIFTING SANDS DR Parcel # 1666A-100 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Michael Valenti APPLICANT: Sarah Freund, c/o Hidden Oak Farm PW 26-004 A request has been submitted to install one boatlift with two associated pilings not to exceed 32’ channelward. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 105 NEWPORT BAY DR UNIT A Parcel # 3667A-A1 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Lawrence Rupp APPLICANT: Ron Gossard c/o Bayshore Marine PW 26-005 A request has been submitted to install one elevator type boat lift with three associated pilings not to exceed 15’6” channelward. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 10624 POINT LOOKOUT RD Parcel # 1732A-33 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.’

APPLICANT: Kayla L. Short PW 26-006 A request has been submitted to install 40’ of replacement vinyl bulkheading not to exceed 18”; to remove old pier structures and install a new 5’ x 40’ parallel platform, a new 6’ x 40’ perpendicular pier and install one boatlift with associated pilings maximum channelward 46’6”. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 620 GULF STREAM DR Parcel # 8020A1496B- in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Kevin & Alison Snyder, Jr. APPLICANT: Martin’s Construction, LLC PW 26-007 A request has been submitted to remove existing marine structures, install 60’ of replacement vinyl bulkheading not to exceed 18” channelward. To construct a new 5’ x 40’ parallel platform, a new 6’ x 14’ perpendicular pier, to re-install boatlift on new platform, and to install a new PWC lift on proposed pier all with associated pilings not to exceed 16’ channelward. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 311 OLD LANDING RD Parcel # 1752A-11 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Tracy L. Welsh APPLICANT: Martin’s Construction, LLC PW 26-008 A request has been submitted to install two boatlifts with associated pilings not to exceed past existing piers, 20’ channelward.

The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 210

JANUARY 2, 2026 WINDWARD DR UNIT A Parcel # 3851A-99A in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Jeremy Gavin APPLICANT: J Stacey Hart, Inc. PW 26-009 A request has been submitted to construct a new 6’ x 22.5’ pier and install one boat lift and one double PWC lift with associated pilings not to exceed 28.5’ channelward. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 156 CAPTAINS QUARTERS RD Parcel # 3748A-120 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNERS: Scotty Miller/David Tromm APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc. PW 26-010 A request has been submitted to install one boat lift with associated pilings not to exceed past existing pier, 18’ channelward.

The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 615 BAYSHORE CT UNIT 2 Parcel # 5292 -2 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Benjamin Mentzer APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc. PW 26-011 A request has been submitted to install one boat lift in deeded slip #3 maximum channelward 40’ and to install one boatlift in deeded slip #1 a maximum channelward of 18’ both with associated pilings. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 310 13TH ST SLIP S3 Parcel # 3493 -S3 and 1 Aronimink 6 CM – Parcel #3493 -1 -6 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Thomas Myers, Jr. APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc. PW 26-012 A request has been submitted to construct a 6’ x 12’ pier extension to an existing 20’ pier for a total length of 32’. To construct a 3’ x 13’ tapered finger pier, install one boatlift and one double PWC lift with associated pilings, maximum channelward 36’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 507 EDGEWATER AVE UNIT A Parcel # 2873 -A in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Rubino Family Revocable Trust APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc. OCD-12/25/2t _________________________________ IN THE ORPHANS’ COURT FOR (OR) BEFORE THE REGISTER OF WILLS FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND IN THE ESTATE OF: MARY E. SAILORS ESTATE NO. 20952

NOTICE

OF JUDICIAL PROBATE To all Persons Interested in the above estate: You are hereby notified that a petition has been filed by Charles H. Bogino, Esq., 10605 Concord Street, Suite 307, Kensington, MD 20895 for judicial probate for the appointment of a personal representative. A hearing will be held at One W. Market Street, Court Room 4, Court House, Snow Hill, MD 21863 on February

JANUARY 2, 2026 10, 2026 at 10:00 a.m.

This hearing may be transferred or postponed to a subsequent time.

Further information may be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills.

Terri Westcott Register of Wills One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Phone: (410) 632-1529 Newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Publication Date: 12/25/25 OCD-12/25/2t _________________________________ MICHAEL B. MATHERS ESQ. WEBB, WILBUR, MATHERS ILLUMINATI & LUKAS, LLP DOUSE & MATHERS, LLP P.O. BOX 910 SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910 SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20946 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF LEANNE DENISE RUARK Notice is given that Leslie Knopfler, 146 Edgewater Dr., Grandy, NC 27939-9628, was on December 22, 2025 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Leanne Denise Ruark who died on November 13, 2025, without a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Leslie Knopfler Personal Representative True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by

PAGE 47

OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: January 1, 2026 OCD-1/1/1t _________________________________ MICHAEL B. MATHERS, ESQ. WEBB, WILBUR, MATHERS ILLUMINATI & LUKAS, LLP DOUSE & MATHERS, LLP P.O. BOX 910 SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20958 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF VERNON JOSEPH CONNORS AKA: VERNON J. CONNORS Notice is given that Shelly Lynn Fry, 61 Offshore Ln., Ocean Pines, MD 21811-1908, was on December 22, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Vernon Joseph Connors who died on August 16, 2025, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 22nd day of June, 2026.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 22nd day of June, 2026.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Shelly Lynn Fry Personal Representative True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: January 1, 2026 OCD-1/1/3t _________________________________ MICHAEL B MATHERS ESQ WEBB, WILBUR, MATHERS ILLUMINATI & LUKAS, LLP

DOUSE & MATHERS, LLP PO BOX 910 SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of MARGARET MARY HUBER WISNIEWSKI Estate No. 20959 Notice is given that MARY ALLISON GASIOR DELSS whose address is 315 SAVANNAH RD BALTIMORE, MD 21221-4813, J ROBERT HUBER JR whose address is 2016 MOUNTAIN AIR DR SPRINGFIELD, WV 26763-4036 were on DECEMBER 22, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MARGARET MARY HUBER WISNIEWSKI who died on NOVEMBER 04, 2025 with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 22nd day of JUNE, 2026.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 22nd day of JUNE, 2026.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-1/1/3t _________________________________ KIRK G. SIMPKINS ESQ SIMPKINS & SIMPKINS, P.A. P.O. BOX 550 PRINCESS ANNE, MD 21853

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of ROBLEY DONALD BRADSHAW Estate No. 20961 Notice is given that COLLIN BRADSHAW whose address is 30222 JOHN SOMERS RD PRINCESS ANNE, MD 21853-2122, GREG BRADSHAW whose address is 909 E CHURCH ST SALISBURY, MD

21804-4401 were on DECEMBER 23, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ROBLEY DONALD BRADSHAW who died on NOVEMBER 18, 2025 without a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 23rd day of JUNE, 2026.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 23rd day of JUNE, 2026.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-1/1/3t _________________________________ JOSEPH E. MOORE, ESQ. WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON 3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20960 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF PATRICIA NELL KANZ Notice is given that Michael Edward Kanz, 17208 Sumac Ct., Germantown, MD 20874-2969, was on December 23, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Patricia Nell Kanz who died on December 16, 2025, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 23rd day of June, 2026.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with

PAGE 48 the Register of Wills on or before the 23rd day of June, 2026.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Michael Edward Kanz Personal Representative True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: January 1, 2026 OCD-1/1/3t _________________________________

Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland

PROPOSAL SOLICITATION

B10-26 – 17th Street Bulkhead Replacement The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the 17th Street Bulkhead Replacement and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.

BID Documents for the 17th Street Bulkhead Replacement may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Leonard at dleonard@oceancitymd.gov, or by calling (410) 723-6643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their BID’s. The Town is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any thirdparty service.

Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.

A Pre-BID Meeting will be held

OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices on TUESDAY, JANUARY 13TH, 2026 AT 11:00AM, AT THE OLD LANDING ROAD BULKHEAD, 301 17TH Street, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842. The last day for questions will be on TUESDAY, JANUARY 27TH, 2026 AT 4:00PM. Addendum will be posted by close of business on WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28TH, 2026.

Sealed BID Documents are due no later than TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 3RD, 2026, BY 4:00PM. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the PROCUREMENT CONFERENCE ROOM, ON WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 4TH, 2026, AT 10:00AM. BID’s are to be submitted to the Town of Ocean City Procurement Department, Attention: Procurement Manager; 214 65th Street, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (17th Street Bulkhead Replacement) must be noted on the outside of the package.

Late BID Documents will not be accepted.

Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation.

OCD-1/1/5t

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20958 TO ALL PERSONS INERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF VERNON JOSEPH CONNORS To all persons interested in the estate of VERNON JOSEPH CONNORS, AKA VERNON J. CONNORS Estate No. 20958. Notice is given that SHELLY LYNN FRY whose address is 61 OFFSHORE LANE, OCEAN PINES, MD 21811-190 was on DECEMBER 22, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of VERNON JOSEPH CONNORS who died on AUGUST 16, 2025 with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 22nd day of JUNE, 2026.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 22nd day of JUNE, 2026.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two

months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Sherry Lynn Fry Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD 1/1/ BETH B. MILLER ESQ. FOX ROTHCHILD, LLP 1201 N. MARKET ST. STE 1200 WILMINGTON, DE 19801

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20957 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ATONIO GENOVESE, To all persons interested in the estate of ATONIO GENOVESE, Estate No. 20957. Notice is given that MARYANN HOFFMAN whose address is; 1216 Mays Landing Rd, Hammonton, NJ 08037-8448 was on DECEMBER 22, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ATONIO GENOVESE who died on MARCH 28, 2025 with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 22nd day of JUNE, 2026.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 22nd day of JUNE, 2026.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

MaryAnn Hoffman Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY

JANUARY 2, 2026 ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD 1/1/3T

Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland

ORDINANCE 2025-31 RE: Sewerage Treatment Agreement. Notice is hereby given by the Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, that Ordinance 2025-31 was introduced for first reading at their meeting of November 17, 2025.

Second reading was held December 1, 2025. Due to an administrative oversight, the second reading was not adequately advertised to the public; therefore, an additional reading will be held January 5, 2026. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review in the Office of the City Clerk, City Hall 3rd Street and Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, or online at oceancitymd.gov in the January 5, 2026, agenda packet.

This ordinance amends the 1994 Sewerage Treatment Facilities Transfer Agreement to increase the West Ocean City allocated sewer capacity by 170,000 gallons per day for the sum of $780,386.00, representing one-twelfth (1/12) of the costs of the prior expansion.

OCDT 1/1/1t SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of CRETA FLORENE BRANHAM, Estate No. 20927. Notice is given that KATHERINE CATER, whose address is 12311 Dixie DR. BISHOPVILLE, MD 21813-1661, was on DECEMBER 18, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the small estate of CRETA FLORENE BRANHAM, who died on NOVEMBER 12, 2025 without a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills within six months of the date of publication of this Notice.

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the under-

JANUARY 2, 2026

PAGE 49

OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices

signed on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that claims will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within 30 days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice.

A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Kathryn Cater Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD 1/1 3T REENA J. PATEL ESQ. LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MT. HERMAN ROAD STE. B SALISBURY, MD 21904

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the es-

tate of DEHART HERBERT LAMB JR., Estate No. 20870. Notice is given that DAWN BERRY, whose address is 9 Oak Leaf Cir, Worcester, MA 01603-1673 was on DECEMBER 23, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of DEHART HERBERT LAMB JR.who died on JUNE 26, 2025 without a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 23rd day of JUNE, 2026.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 23rd day of JUNE, 2026.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the

claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice.

A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Dawn Berry Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD 1/1/3T

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PAGE 50

JANUARY 2, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

vanishing

OCEAN CITY

With Bunk Mann

Things I Like...

By Steve Green Auxer’s ornaments on our tree each year Weeds growing in December (that’s not true) Overtime football game emotions Fried oysters without bread A lab sleeping with a tennis ball nearby

The Sandpiper was one of the most popular restaurants in town from the 1950s through the 1970s. Located on 33rd Street and Coastal Highway in a building with a big white chicken on the roof, it featured seafood and some of the best fried chicken ever served in Ocean City.

Robe and Mary Belle Holland opened the Sandpiper in 1953 in a building that had once housed a nite club known as the Swan Club. With the growth of the area that became known as “Motel Row” in the next decade, the Sandpiper became a favorite destination.

The business was sold to the Davis family in 1965 and they continued the restaurant’s reputation for good food and friendly service. In the 1970s, they opened the popular Sand Bar there as well as an after-hours club known as the Penthouse.

The Sandpiper ceased operation in 1979 and the building became the home of several different restaurants in subsequent years. Today it is the site of Guido’s Burritos, which is currently being renovated.

To purchase one of Bunk Mann's books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com.

Photo courtesy of Susan Cropper

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JANUARY 2, 2026

PAGE 51

OC Today-Dispatch

General Assembly overrides several of governor’s vetoes

By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Jan. 2, 2026) State legislators overturned several gubernatorial vetoes in a special session of the General Assembly last month, including a bill that would create a committee to study reparations for descendants of slaves.

During their one-day session held Dec. 16 at the State House in Annapolis, the legislature overrode Gov. Wes Moore’s nine vetoes of bills. State records show Moore vetoed 29 total bills stemming from the 2025 legislative session on May 16.

Drawing the most attention among overturned vetoes was a bill crafted to create a committee to study whether and how Maryland should provide reparations for the descendants of slaves.

The law, Senate Bill 587, would create a formal Reparations Commission to study the issue historically and explore possible remedies ahead of a formal recommendation to lawmakers in 2027. The law would not involve payments or reparations.

Moore ultimately vetoed this legislation, telling legislators in writing that while he appreciates the work that went into the bill, “I strongly believe now is not the time for another study,” he wrote. “Now is the time for

continued action that delivers results for the people we serve.”

The governor went on to say how, in the last 25 years, state officials already had created several commissions and study groups to examine the legacy of slavery in Maryland, and “now is the time to focus on the work itself.”

Another overturned veto echoing that sentiment involved an analysis of how large data centers are using energy and impacting the environment.

Senate Bill 116 asks the state to consider the strain on the power grid before approving additional energyhungry server farms. The law isn’t a ban, but it does ask lawmakers to plan more robustly before committing to additional facilities.

“Studies can serve a purpose, but their overuse is a drag on the State government,” wrote Moore in a letter explaining this veto.

Another overturned veto that may impact parts of the Lower Eastern Shore puts a pause on the creation of structures used to contain dredge spoils underwater. Lawmakers agreed that confined aquatic disposal cells warrant additional environmental review.

Other vetoed bills brought back to life include measures on climate change, electricity supply planning,

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OP PICKLEBALL COLD SHELTER DIONATION The Ocean Pines Pickleball Club donated $500 recently to Jason and Trisha Long, coordinators of the OC Cold Weather Shelter. The donation recognizes and supports their dedication and that of the shelter volunteers to provide warmth, safety, and compassion to those in need on the coldest nights of the year. Pictured, from left, are Cathy Levatino, Patti Stevens and Nancy Fava of the Pickleball Club and Trisha and Jason Long.

and a pilot program to help courts evaluate the role of artificial intelligence in evidence creation.

By overriding his vetoes, those pieces of legislation will now take effect as law. Both chamber of the legislature had to decide by a majority vote to overturn each of the vetoed bills. No new policy ideas or legislation was introduced in the special session.

Also during the special session, the House of Delegates appointed a new Speaker, Del. Joseline Peña-Melnyk (D-21, Anne Arundel). She replaces outgoing Baltimore County Democrat Adrianne Jones, who stepped down last month from House leadership.

Jones will remain in office but relinquishes the speakership after more than six years in the role.

PAGE 52

OC Today-Dispatch

JANUARY 2, 2026

REAL ESTATE REPORT

Increased inventory leads to higher days on market in ’25

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By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer (Jan. 2, 2026) This past year in real estate evidenced increasing inventory for the first time in over five years and subsequently increasing days on market averages.

With persistent elevated mortgage rates in the first half of the year, some relief came in the second half of the year with the current average 30-year fixed rate hovering just above 6%. The Federal Reserve made three interest rate cuts this year, each a quarter-point (25 basis points), occurring in September, October, and December. But, even with increasing inventory and a softening buyer demand, home values remained steady in Worcester County.

Here’s an “at a glance” recap of some of the various market stats for Worcester County (some figures supplied below exclude December 2025).

The average sales prices varied monthly throughout the year, but January had the highest sales price average increase year over year for Worcester County at a 34.4% increase and a $534,961 sales price average in 2025. The lowest sales price average reported in 2025 was for the month of June at $446,328. And, the overall average sales price for January through November of 2025 was $489,016. In comparison to the two prior years, 2024 ended at a $485,883 overall average and 2023 ended at a $477,261 overall average.

The months of inventory reported figure for November 2025 showed Worcester County was at 4.6 months, compared to the same monthly November figures in 2024 where the months of inventory average was 3.8.

At the end of 2024, yearly statistics showed we were sitting at 3.4 months of inventory.

For the month of November, in 2024 there were 610 active listings but this November 2025 showed 764 units of active inventory. This is compared to the beginning of the year, where January showed only 588 active units.

At the end of December, the MLS inventory reflects 684 active listings in Worcester County.

As of the last week in December 2025, there are 99 direct oceanfront building listings, an increase over last year’s 74 direct oceanfront building total units actively listed for sale in the MLS .

The luxury market saw 101 homes selling over the $1 million dollar mark in 2025, and 2024 posted a slightly lower number at 85 luxury homes sold.

The highest priced sale in Worcester County in 2025 was for a singlefamily oceanfront home in Ocean City on 42nd Street which sold for $3,600,000.

At the other price point spectrum, there were 444 homes that sold under the $300,000 price mark in Worcester County and 201 active listings in that same price category as of the last week in December 2025.

Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record with Keller Williams Realty of Delmarva in Ocean City.

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OCTodayDispatch.com

JANUARY 2, 2026

PAGE 53

OC Today-Dispatch

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Pinnacle Hospitality Group representatives announced the creation of Pinnacle Development with a ground breaking of a new West Ocean City townhome community called The Elms.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Townhouses break ground (Jan. 2, 2026) Pinnacle Hospitality Group, founded in 2016, has announced the formation of a new subdivision: Pinnacle Development.

Pinnacle Development will focus on expanding our footprint beyond hospitality operations, working hand in hand with trusted partners DRB Homes and Beauchamp Construction to develop a high-quality residential and mixed-use project that complements our hospitality portfolio.

This milestone is marked by the groundbreaking of The Elms, a luxury townhouse community located in West Ocean City, Maryland. The Elms represents a strategic expansion of our

brand—bringing the same commitment to quality, thoughtful design, and community impact that defines Pinnacle Hospitality Group into the development space.

Pinnacle Hospitality Group currently owns and operates seven hotels, with two additional properties under development on the Eastern Shore. Each of these properties reflects a commitment to exceptional guest experiences, strong community relationships, and long-term growth.

The launch of Pinnacle Development represents not just expansion, but evolution—creating new opportunities while staying true to the values that have guided us since 2016, according to a company press release.

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OC Today-Dispatch

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Offshore wind project still in limbo

By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Jan. 2, 2026) Congressman Andy Harris predicts US Wind will fail.

Regulatory uncertainty, he said, may doom the developer’s plans for an offshore wind farm near Ocean City. It means the deep-pocketed lenders required to finance the project may walk away, the Eastern Shore representative said in an interview with OC Today-Dispatch.

After the U.S. Interior Department on Dec. 22 announced a pause on all large-scale offshore wind projects under construction, citing national security concerns, Harris noted how shares of the five companies affected “took a beating on Wall Street.”

“And I think what that means for US Wind – which, of course, is not a publicly traded company, it's owned

by Italian billionaires – it means that they're unlikely to get the financing,” he said. “At some point they're going to pull the plug. I expect that actually to be sooner rather than later. I wouldn't be surprised if they pulled the plug by summer.”

When asked about the government’s claims that national security is suddenly a determining factor now, despite years of federal review, Harris asserted that red flags about safety from the Coast Guard and the De-

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fense Department during the permitting process had been “disregarded” in a rush to approve the permits.

“I think there was a feeling in the Biden administration that, if this was not granted, that it would've been stopped by the Trump administration for reasonable concerns,” he said. “We should never threaten our national security because of a renewable energy push.”

A Year of Uncertainty US Wind’s project – in the works for more than a decade and approved under President Joe Biden’s administration – would see 114 turbines erected in the Atlantic Ocean in a lease area that starts approximately 11 miles off Ocean City. After a tumultuous 2025, the project’s future is uncertain because of ongoing lawsuits.

President Donald Trump has openly been hostile to offshore wind for years. At the start of his second term on Jan. 20, Trump issued a wind power moratorium by executive order, which was later struck down by a federal judge.

Also in January, Worcester County officials tried to derail US Wind’s planned acquisition of commercial property for a future maintenance hub at the West Ocean City harbor, threatening to seize the property through eminent domain. US Wind responded with a cease-and-desist letter.

Then, US Wind came back with cash on the barrel offering in May to seed a $20 million “relief fund” that would compensate commercial fishermen. Local watermen rejected the offer, saying they weren’t for sale.

By August, the federal government pivoted, showing an interest in revisiting US Wind’s permit approval, known as a Construction and Operations Plan. The Interior Department – which, under President Biden, had greenlit the project – was now telling

a federal judge it wanted the permit sent back for reconsideration.

Harris in October joined with local, state, and federal leaders for a summit in West Ocean City, where the discussion hinged on offshore wind’s potential damage to commercial fisheries and the environment.

Harris told the group that the White House would be working to kneecap the US Wind project through policy initiatives.

OC Lawsuit Continues Ocean City in October 2024 had filed a lawsuit against US Wind and the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management to block the project. That suit continued throughout 2025.

With the city’s legal bills now pushing $400,000, resort officials even used ticket sales from the town’s recent 150th anniversary gala to help fund litigation.

City Manager Terry McGean said it was “encouraging news” to hear that the White House has issued its Dec. 22 order to pause ongoing wind farm construction.

“We believe that the US Wind project would have the same National Security impacts,” McGean said via email, “and we expect that to be thoroughly investigated once the permits are remanded back for review.”

He also said that a judge just denied US Wind’s motions to prevent the government from re-evaluating the permit approvals. Next, BOEM would submit a full administrative record to the court, likely by midMarch.

Based on the merits of the city’s case, once the full administrative record is produced, BOEM could then refile for remand, he added.

“Lots of moving parts,” McGean said.

SPEED Act Amendment See REGULATORY Page 55

JANUARY 2, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 55

Newly passed statewide laws now in effect

By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Jan. 2, 2026) Changes to firefighters’ health care, rideshare income reporting, and licensing mandates for service jobs are among the two dozen state laws passed in 2025 that will take effect as of Jan. 1.

The state’s Jimmy Malone Act says self-insured counties must start to provide preventative cancer screenings at no cost to county-employed firefighters. Counties may apply for a state grant to cover those screening costs.

Counties also must collect data on cost, how many firefighters were eligible, how many were screened, and how many preventative screenings resulted in a cancer diagnosis. Each county must report to state health authorities what its data showed by June 2027.

Tax sale reforms with statewide

Regulatory bill passed by House Continued from Page 54 Rep. Harris has also successfully sponsored an amendment to a regulatory reform bill that just passed the House of Representatives and is pending in the Senate.

The SPEED Act – short for “Standardizing Permitting and Expediting Economic Development Act” – would overhaul how big energy or infrastructure projects get reviewed and approved at the federal level. It passed the GOP-controlled House on Dec. 18, by a vote of 221-196.

For now, projects like a large-scale offshore wind farm must undergo a lengthy environmental review from the federal government under provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act, or NEPA. Harris said while the SPEED Act expedites those processes under NEPA so they don’t drag out for years, his amendment creates a carve-out that preserves the Trump’s administration’s ability to formally review ongoing projects.

Without the amendment, the act as written would have blocked efforts by the federal government to reconsider – or remand, in legislative lingo – an approved wind farm permit. His amendment was co-sponsored by Reps. Chris Smith and Jeff Van Drew, both Republicans from New Jersey.

Specifically, Harris said he doesn’t think it’s fair that the government could change the rules on offshore wind while the Town of Ocean City is in the middle of a legal battle with US Wind.

“The bottom line is that, I just felt it fair,” Harris said. “If something had been filed already, it actually should be allowed to continue, and you shouldn't change the rules midstream on whether or not you can continue to request those permits to be remanded.”

impact also will take effect in the New Year. A new law taking effect Jan. 1 changes the process by which counties can foreclose on and sell properties with unpaid property taxes.

The law (HB 59) says counties have to hold back owner-occupied residential properties from being offered at tax sale.

Counties also must create a registry of properties meeting those conditions, and report that information to the state.

It’s meant to protect owner-occupied properties as well as heirs of deceased owners from being foreclosed upon too quickly. Housing advocates supported this bill as a way to prevent families from being displaced from their home because of relatively small tax debts.

Business taxation will change in the New Year as well. A new policy that was passed through the state’s umbrella budget act amends how

small business owners are taxed.

State residents with sole proprietorships, partnerships, and LLCs – “passthrough” businesses where owners are responsible for paying taxes on their personal share of revenue – will be taxed on their full share of income.

Nonresidents, however, will be taxed only on their business activity tied to Maryland. State officials say the change will improve compliance with revenue collections, particularly from out-of-state investors.

Another new law is sure to impact the many seasonal workers who drive for Uber or Lyft seasonally in Ocean City.

Transportation companies like Uber or Lyft will now be required to provide drivers with a weekly summary of their fares and earnings. Annual earnings data also must be reported to the state.

Yet another New Year’s Day policy will

impact small businesses in the personal care industry: barbers and cosmetologists will be required to take a one-time domestic violence awareness training to get or keep their state-issued license.

One new law that was pitched for a Jan. 1 effective date, but ended up being withdrawn, would have tackled health insurance and consumer protection.

That law (SB 393) would have required insurance companies to post updated lists of the prescription drugs they’ll cover – a list known as a formulary, in insurance lingo – on their websites.

Consumer advocates pushed for the bill to help consumers better understand their prescription drug benefits offered by health insurers. It also asked that insurers and HMOS to make certain generic drugs available.

PAGE 56

JANUARY 2, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

Ocean Pines considers $40 assessment hike in budget

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Jan. 2, 2026) The Ocean Pines Association’s next fiscal year budget could raise membership assessment fees by $40, if the community’s board of directors approves the spending plan later this year.

Ocean Pines Association General Manager John Viola said during the neighborhood’s Dec. 20 board of directors meeting that the new budget for the upcoming fiscal year may raise the homeowner’s association fees by about $40.

Of the proposed $40 assessment increase, approximately $25 would be dedicated to funding the community’s new firehouse. Viola described the cost as “moderate” given the scope of the project.

“With all the pre-planning and all the work, we have a very good building, and everybody will be happy,” Viola said.

The community is gearing up to construct a new fire house, an initiative that will replace the existing structure located at 911 Ocean Parkway. The updated building will be situated at the same address.

The replacement of the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department’s South Side Station has been a desire of the community for some time. The original structure, which officials say is now inadequate to properly service the fire and EMS teams, was built in 1981.

Besides leaks, drainage issues, and mold concerns, the existing structure’s engine bay doors are a mere 12 feet wide and not spacious enough to fit the modern, and much larger, fire trucks. The new building will address these complaints, with the cost split between OPA and the fire company.

A referendum was passed during last summer’s board of directors’ election, which authorized the community to spend up to $3.4 million on the project.

The new fire house is set to break ground in February and will take about 60 weeks to complete. Of the $40 hit homeowners could soon take on their assessments, the majority of those dollars will go toward the creation of the enhanced facility.

The remaining $15 of the proposed assessment increase would address higher water and wastewater costs.

Viola explained that the Ocean Pines Association recently received a rate increase similar to what individual homeowners are experiencing. A portion of the increase was allocated to Touch of Italy, the community’s food and beverage vendor overseeing the three OPA establishments.

Homeowners could also be on the hook for the rate hike, seeing about $15 extra reflected in their assessments. Some of that cost, Viola said, has been offset through proposed amenity increases.

Viola added that public safety continues to be a major driver in the association’s budget. He noted that safety-related costs now account for approximately 43% of the assessment, a significant increase from roughly 22% about a decade ago.

That boost reflects factors such as police pension equivalents, the new firehouse, and what the general manager described as “organic growth” in expenses.

A public town hall meeting to discuss the proposed budget will be scheduled later this month. The OPA Board of Directors is expected to vote on the fiscal year 2026/2027 budget in February.

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PAGE 57

OC Today-Dispatch

Land acquired for public use project

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Jan. 2, 2026) A 41-acre property off Evans Road near Berlin has officially been added to Maryland’s Chesapeake Forest Lands, expanding public access and strengthening conservation efforts tied to the former Bay Club golf course, now known as the Libertytown Branch Tract.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) finalized the acquisition of the property on Nov. 21, 2025, using funding from Program Open Space, a Maryland landconservation initiative. The parcel connects directly to the 672-acre Libertytown Branch Tract, which was purchased with assistance from the Lower Shore Land Trust and transferred to DNR ownership in 2023.

A press release announcing the acquisition states that the newly acquired land will support the original vision for the Libertytown Branch Tract: public use for community connection, recreational activities, and environmental restoration.

According to the announcement, DNR plans to use approved stabilization funds to improve access to the property, protect water quality, maintain land integrity, and support future trail connections. Once infrastructure is in place, residents will be able to access the forest directly from Berlin for activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and horseback riding.

The acquisition has been described as a win for both the community and the environment. The parcel supports restoration of forest, wetland, and grassland habitats while buffering critical areas for Forest Interior Dwelling Species — birds that rely on large, uninterrupted forest tracts to survive. The surrounding region has been designated an Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society.

In addition to habitat protection, planned restoration projects for the Libertytown Branch Tract include reforestation initiatives, such as an 18.5-acre pollinator meadow and

Worcester County accepting nonprofit grant applications (Jan. 2, 2026) Worcester County Government (WCG) is accepting grant applications from area non-profit agencies now through Friday, Jan. 23, 2026.

Applications are available to download as a PDF at www.co.worcester.md.us.

Once there, the link to the Non-Profit Grant Application can be found under “Important Links” on the right-hand side of the web page.

Completed grant applications should be mailed to the following ad-

dress: Worcester County Government, One West Market Street, Room 1103, Snow Hill Maryland, 21863, Attention: Senior Budget Accountant Lynn Wright Applications received after the deadline will not be considered, and applying for a non-profit grant is not a guarantee of funding approval from WCG. Grant awards will be announced by mail following the adoption of the FY27 WCG Operating Budget in June 2026.

constructed wetlands, to improve local ecosystem health and water quality.

The environmental endeavor has been ongoing. Last year, initiative leaders hosted an information session on Jan. 16. Here, officials provided project updates and outlined their mission with the Bay Club transformation.

Alex Clark of the MD DNR Forest Service said at the time that work already completed at the site included the removal of infrastructure like buildings and pavement, the majority of the parking lot construction, and planting trees across 62 acres. Officials have also coordinated with the Berlin and Ocean Pines fire companies to provide them with easy access to the property in the case of emergencies.

Other priorities included finishing touches on the parking area, additional signage, more cleanup, particularly collecting all the golf balls that have found their way into the space’s ponds, and working with DNR engineers to ensure the property’s bridges are structurally sound.

Community members are encouraged to get involved in the project.

Those interested in lending a hand are invited to attend quarterly meetings of the Friends of Libertytown Branch, held at the Berlin Library.

The next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 12, at 6:30 p.m. Residents can also contact the Lower Shore Land Trust to learn about volunteer opportunities and ways to support ongoing conservation efforts.

The property remains open for exploration as trail systems continue to be developed.

For more information, contact the Lower Shore Land Trust at 443-2345587 or visit LowerShoreLandTrust.org.

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JANUARY 2, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

Coloring Contest Winners Thank you to all the wonderful artists for participating in the Newspaper Coloring Contest.

Below are the winners.

Winner Ages 5 & Under

Winner Ages 6-9

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JANUARY 2, 2026

PAGE 59

OC Today-Dispatch

PHOTOS COURTESY OF OCFD

OCFD completes ambulance inspection process on 1st try (Jan. 2, 2026) The Ocean City Fire Department has announced the successful completion of the Ambulance Inspection Program (VAIP), conducted by the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS).

This accomplishment reinforces the department’s unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest standards of emergency medical care for residents and visitors.

The VAIP is a voluntary, statewide initiative recognizing emergency response vehicles that meet exceptional standards of excellence. Its comprehensive inspection process ensures that ambulances are properly equipped, fully compliant, and ready to deliver lifesaving services with precision and reliability.

In an outstanding display of readiness and professionalism, all ten of the department’s advanced life support ambulances and three fire engines passed the inspection on their first attempt.

This success also fulfills the medical director review requirements for ambulance equipment under state code.

Battalion Chief Amanda Bunting, who oversees EMS operations, praised the department’s personnel for their diligence and preparedness.

“This achievement reflects the pride, dedication, and attention to detail our

EMS providers bring to work every single day,” she said in a news release. “Ensuring our units exceed state standards means our community can trust that when they call 911, they are receiving the highest level of care. I’m incredibly proud of our team.”

According to a press release announcing the news, the Ocean City Fire Department remains committed to providing exceptional emergency services and continuously striving for improvement and excellence in all aspects of emergency response.

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Members of the Ocean City Fire Department are pictured participating in an ambulance inspection program coordinated by the state.

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PAGE 60

JANUARY 2, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

FIRST FRIDAY IN OCEAN CITY

SUBMITTED PHOTOS/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

The Ocean City Center for the Arts hosted the First Friday opening reception on Dec. 5. Pictured is David Hollander, who won first place in the annual Members' Juried Show.

Bud and Lisi Holder celebrated their third wedding anniversary at the Art League of Ocean City’s opening reception on Dec. 5

Don Hartmann won second place in the annual Members' Juried Show at the Ocean City Center for the Arts.

Gordon Inyard displayed his painting in the "Best of 2025" exhibition at Art League of Ocean City's First Friday.

Olive Mawyer and Joanna Aydelotte hosted the Ocean City Chamber of Commerce's Business After Hours during the opening reception.

Daughter and mother Frankie Zurla and Mary Knight dress for the holidays at the Art League of Ocean City's First Friday.

Volunteer Pam Bennett served hors d'oeuvres to guests prepared by Phil Cropper's culinary arts students at Worcester Technical High School.

Volunteer Bruce Campbell greeted guests at the Art League of Ocean City's First Friday.

JANUARY 2, 2026

PAGE 61

OC Today-Dispatch

Daughter and father Tia and Tuve Tuvesson offered their handcrafted metalwork to guests at the opening reception on Dec. 5.

The winners of the annual Members' Juried Show, pictured with Art League President Crystal Collins, were, from left, Jim Rehak, David Hollander and Don Hartmann.

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PAGE 62

OC Today-Dispatch

JANUARY 2, 2026

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Maryland’s famous Crab Imperial

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer (Jan. 2, 2o26) The art of cooking has reached new horizons where creativity and glitz have gone far beyond the level of predictability.

That being said, it is important to remember our roots and good oldfashioned dishes that define tradition. History is the secret ingredient that enhances the present and flavors the future with distinction.

The Chesapeake Bay, the largest estuary in North America, has provided the protein for countless meals from clambakes, oyster pie, and pickled shrimp.

However, Maryland is best known for its blue crabs. The delicacy is the star of simple, delicious bites of nostalgia. But it is also showcased in gastronomic masterpieces that push the boundaries of excellence. No matter how they are presented, blue crabs are delicious.

The key to cooking the sweet meat is not to overpower its delicate consistency.

Claw meat, lump/backfin, and jumbo lump are the three main classifications.

Each one has earned its right depending on the nature of the recipe.

Imperial is slowly fading to the pages of culinary antiquity. The delicate, creamy sauce that is gently tossed with the hunks of jumbo lump crab meat is perfection at its finest.

There was a time where Crab Imperial graced the menus along the Delmarva Peninsula. The dish was pricy but it was heavenly and worth every penny.

On that note, has one ever thought abouts its conception? It’s quite interesting and its roots are closer to home than one might think. With that thought in mind, let us take a closer look at this famous Eastern Shore entrée.

What exactly is Crab Imperial? It is an entree where jumbo lump crabmeat is coated in a sauce of mayonnaise, spices, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce, then baked in a scallop or crab shell until golden brown. It is topped with cheddar cheese and paprika.

Crab Imperial originated in Baltimore’s Thompson Sea Girt House in the late 19th century. The name “imperial” is indicative of its luxurious, rich consistency. The sauce is decadent and yet it allows the jumbo lump crab meat to be the star.

There are recipes similar to Crab Imperial but none of them sing in harmony where every ingredient supports the theme of a perfect bite. Crab Imperial and crab cakes are similar yet very dif-

ferent. Crab Imperial is always baked where crabcakes can be broiled, sauteed, or fried. Crabcakes are drier and are not topped with cheese.

Crab Imperial and crab dip share similar characteristics; they both incorporate cheese. While dips are yummy, the essence of crab is not as pronounced.

Also, the crab breaks down in the stirring process of the dip and it is a waste of money to use jumbo lump.

Before one prepares Crab Imperial, a few tips ensure success. As a rule, jumbo lump crab meat does not have many shells or cartilage but you should still pick through it.

Open the container of crab meat and place on paper towels. Sometimes there are natural juices and you do not want to mix it with the imperial sauce.

The luscious sauce not only complements but highlights the jumbo lump meat. Adding an extra layer on top and then allowing the cheese to melt into the sauce adds richness to the dish. This step is optional but I highly recommend it.

In closing, Crab Imperial has been a part of Maryland culture and for good reason. Once you taste it, you will understand why Crab Imperial is an example of Maryland’s tasty charm.

Crab Imperial 1-pound jumbo lump crab meat, remove any shells or cartilage 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning ¼ teaspoon celery salt ¼ teaspoon sweet paprika ¼ teaspoon garlic powder ¼ teaspoon onion powder ¼ teaspoon dry mustard 1 ½ teaspoon fresh lemon juice 1 large egg 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

4-ounces Mayonnaise 1 teaspoon melted butter Imperial Topping 4-ounces mayonnaise 1-ounce heavy cream ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning ¼ teaspoon celery salt ¼ teaspoon sweet paprika ¼ teaspoon garlic powder ¼ teaspoon onion powder ¼ teaspoon dry mustard 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce Garnish ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese several pinches of sweet paprika 4 ramekins or baking 1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

2. Using a hand-held blender, combine all of the Crab Imperial ingredients (except for the crab meat) in a medium bowl until smooth.

3. Gently fold in crab meat, make sure all protein is covered with imperial sauce. You are paying for the large hunks of crab meat, so make sure you are careful not to break up the lumps.

4. Divide crab filling evenly into 4 individual ramekins, and bake for 15 minutes.

5. While the Crab Imperial is cooking, using the hand-held blender again, whip the imperial topping until velvety smooth.

6. When Crab Imperials are finished cooking, remove from oven, and switch oven to broil. Top each ramekin evenly with extra Crab Imperial sauce, cheddar cheese and paprika until browned. Serve immediately.

Secret Ingredient – History We are not makers of history. We are made by history.

- Martin Luther King, Jr.

JANUARY 2, 2026

PAGE 63

OC Today-Dispatch

Comfort stations in OC to remain closed until April Two town facilties to reopen in spring 2026, officials say (Jan. 2, 2026) The Town of Ocean City would like to inform residents and visitors that the Worcester Street and Caroline Street Comfort Stations will be temporarily closed for renovations.

Through April 17, the Worcester Street Comfort Station will be closed and starting Jan. 5, through April 17, the Caroline Street Comfort Station will be closed.

Both facilities are scheduled to reopen for public use on April 18, 2026, following the completion of planned improvements aimed at enhancing visitor comfort and facility functionality.

During the renovation period, the 9th Street and 27th Street comfort stations will remain open and available for public use.

The Town of Ocean City appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation as these upgrades are completed to help improve amenities for residents and visitors.

For additional information, follow the Town of Ocean City on social media for updates.

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Opinions

Jan. 2, 2026

Page 64

School probe needs patience As the rumor mill turns with greater momentum every day, facts are scarce about the apparent investigation into ... well, there’s the problem.

Beyond knowing that the public school system is connected to whatever the Maryland State Prosecutor’s office is looking into and that Worcester County sought the investigation into some aspect of the schools, there’s not much definitive that can be said.

We have reported or are reporting on two searches the state office has conducted, one at the home of a school system employee and another the Worcester County Board of Education offices in Newark, but the most important factors — the what and why of it all — we don’t know for a fact and no one who does know is talking.

One of the reasons for this reluctance is because an investigation is not an indictment. The former is the pursuit of answers, while the latter is an expression of belief based on those answers.

Until the state’s investigators make their determination, the responsible approach dictates that it’s better to say nothing than to say something that turns out to be wrong.

Berlin looks outside The Town of Berlin is doing the right thing by seeking its new police chief from outside the town’s ranks, simply because it lets town officials work with a much deeper pool of talent.

This isn’t to say the town’s personnel aren’t good at what they do, but the chances of finding the one person who ticks all the boxes rises in proportion to the number of resumes received.

This is a good, well paying job, and no one should be surprised if numerous qualified people in the region are considering applying for it. Here’s hoping that the mayor and Town Council have a tough time deciding.

OC Today-Dispatch Stubbornly local, equally independent NEWS EDITOR STEWART DOBSON; EXECUTIVE EDITOR STEVE GREEN ASSOCIATE EDITOR BETHANY HOOPER STAFF WRITERS TARA FISCHER, BRIAN SHANE Contact News Room: editor@octodaydispatch.com SALES ACCOUNT MANAGERS MARY COOPER, TERRI FRENCH, RENEE KELLY CLASSIFIEDS/LEGALS PAMELA GREEN Contact Sales: sales@octodaydispatch.com PRODUCTION ART DIRECTOR COLE GIBSON; SENIOR PAGE DESIGNER SUSAN PARKS SENIOR AD DESIGNER KELLY BROWN ADMINISTRATION PUBLISHER/CONTROLLER CHRISTINE BROWN ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT GINI TUFTS Web: octodaydispatch.com ~ Facebook: www.facebook.com/octodaydispatch OC Today-Dispatch is published Fridays by FLAG Publications, Inc. 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 410-723-6397 All content copyright 2026

Reprint from 2018

PUBLIC EYE

Don’t look back at ’25

As I look back on 2025, the one thing that occurs to me is that I shouldn’t look back on 2025.

This isn’t because it was a no-good cat pan of a year, that designation being reserved for years that involve pandemics, floods or stock market crashes ... ... or the year you entered 9th grade and discovered on your first day that the best part of having an acne colony set up housekeeping on your face is that it might draw people’s attention away from your new By Stewart braces.

As they say, you have only Dobson one chance to make a good first impression, and looking like someone assembled a grocery cart in your mouth is not conducive to realizing that objective.

N0, I choose not to look back because I see no point in being doubly embarrassed by something I may or may not have done during a moment of weakness.

It’s also because, as Hall of Fame baseball pitcher Satchell Paige observed, “Don’t look back. Something might be gaining on you.”

Again, I’m not saying 2025 was a bad year, but do think it could have been better. Let’s put it this way: if 2020 was the equivalent of the ground floor of a three-story outhouse, then 2025 was on the second-floor. That’s not terrible if you’re looking down, but looking up would have its own risks.

As it is, 2025 was a terrible year for major distillers and wine makers, who experienced a steep decline in the public’s consumption of

alcoholic beverages.

Sure, not drinking is a healthy choice (or so people say), but the downside is this cuts into the number of people who make the rest of us look better when we really need it: “You’re right,” you say on the way home, “I should not have put a paper coffee filter on my head at the Joneses’ cocktail party and said, ‘Look at me, I’m Martha Washington!’

“On the other hand, I wasn’t Bobby Ray, who walked over to the umbrella stand and said, ‘Oh yeah? Look at me, I’m Martha Washington’s dog at a hydrant!’”

This world needs Bobby Rays to take the pressure off the rest of us but that won’t happen if the consumption of spirits continues to drop.

Jim Beam, for instance, is closing its main bourbon distillery for all of 2026. It’s partially the result of the Canadians’ boycott of American whiskey because of the tariffs and the result of an increase in marijuana consumption by the younger generations.

Specifically, Gen Z consumes so many gummies that it’s now known as Gen Zzzzzz.

I know the Baby Boomers fogged up the country between 1965-75, as they proved, “Pot...It’s not just for jazz drummers and popeyed crazies anymore.” But Gen Zzzzzz ... they’re putting our bar culture in jeopardy.

We need to do better, but I would prefer not to dwell on it. I have more serious problems ... like resisting the urge to hold six sticks of string cheese up to my mouth and say, “Look it me! I’m Zamfir, master of the pan flute!”

I can’t do that until Bobby Ray’s around again, and given the situation at some of our watering holes, I can’t predict when that will be.

JANUARY 2, 2026

PAGE 65

OC Today-Dispatch

Between the Lines

By Steve Green For more than 20 years, I have offered some predictions for what will make headlines in the years ahead. Last week, I reviewed how I did, and this week I offer up a few guesses on what lies ahead.

• The Maryland legislature will gerrymander the District 1 congressional district before the Feb. 24 filing deadline enough to get a Democrat elected and unseat long-time Congressman Andy Harris in the November election.

• Gov. Wes Moore will cruise to his second term, despite all the headlines about financial troubles facing Maryland.

• National security will become the new mantra to further delay the offshore wind project off Ocean City. Another year will come and go with legal maneuvers leading to more money being spent on both sides. The result being no action one way or another.

• Three incumbents on the Worcester County Commissioners will be re-elected in 2026.

• The Ocean City mayoral election will be contested once more, with incumbent Rick Meehan and challenger Peter Buas squaring off in a rematch from 2024.

• Two of the three Ocean City Council members up for re-election will take another shot at re-election.

• The year ended with a petition effort underway seeking a referendum on Ocean City’s short-term rental moratorium extension. The effort will fall short of the required signatures this time around.

• The Route 50 bridge planned closure of two weeks will need to be extended until early March due to inclement weather.

• The Town of Ocean City will announce the hiring of a new city engineer with local ties.

• Ocean City will create a new beach enforcement division to crack down on canopies, drinking and marijuana smoking.

• Of the three open Berlin council seats up for election in October, only one incumbent will return.

• The investigation by the state into the Worcester County Board of Education and an executive team member will conclude with no charges being filed.

• Ocean City will begin exploring transportation alternatives to replace the tram service.

• Ocean City Manager Terry McGean will announce his intentions to retire in 2027.

• Though it looked doubtful for much of the year, the federal government does approve beach replenishment funding with the project taking place in the fall.

• With the Fourth of July falling on a Saturday, Ocean City officials get pro-active, ramping up public safety messages to combat another “takeover” type of weekend like last year.

• As it did with the fair a few years back, Worcester County will take over the annual Blessing of the Combines event.

• The State of Maryland will delay the implementation of the Blueprint Maryland mandate that requires all school systems to raise starting teacher salaries to $60,000.

• Unlike last summer, there will be funding available for Assateague Island National Seashore to hire lifeguards this year.

• Police departments across the shore will struggle with employment as rank-and-file officers opt for lucrative signing bonuses with ICE. • State transportation folks will not move ahead with the consideration to repurpose the bus lane for bikes and scooters only.

• In the fall, the Maryland Department of Transportation will announce an off-season project to elevate the intersection at N. Division Street and the Route 50 bridge.

• Despite recently raising the reward money, Ocean City’s ongoing search for information leading to the apprehension of the Truist bank robbery suspect will be unsuccessful. The case will go unsolved.

• Most of the year will be spent on design work for a new Baltimore Avenue with groundbreaking planned for fall of 2027.

• Maryland legislators will agree to hold a statewide referendum during the gubernatorial election on increasing minimum wage to $25 an hour.

• Following the massive savings – about $56 million – from ceasing production of the penny this year, the U.S. Mint will announce an intention to do the same for the nickel in 2027.

• The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will be slated as the headliner for the OC Air Show in 2027 again after topping the lineup this summer.

• Former Ocean City Acting Fire Chief Josh Bunting will be hired officially as the new chief after retiring in 2025.

• Redevelopment efforts will begin in earnest at the former Ocean Plaza Mall site on 94th Street.

• In the first “home” Super Bowl, the 49ers will defeat the Texans in the Super Bowl.

Letters to the editor State championship a win for the community Editor, I am a co-captain of the 2025 Stephen Decatur 3-A Maryland State Champion Soccer team. I would like to thank your newspaper for your coverage of our achievement. I would also like to take this opportunity to say thanks to our families, our school and our community that made this such a special season for us.

Coach Greenwood sat us down in his room at the end of last school year. He told us that we were going to do big things, and those big things could only be accomplished through the integrity of our team and overcoming adversity. I remember vividly how he stated that his life bucket list included a state championship win.

When I think about the Stephen Decatur soccer team, I not only think about the players and coaches, but also the friends and families who support our program. I believe that our journey was created not only from the performance of those in uniform, but also from our coaches, friends, and families that were part of our program from the beginning of pre-season all the way until the state championship game.

Therefore, I believe this state title belongs not only to the team, but also the community that helped us during the journey. Now Greenwood has one less thing for his bucket list.

Collin Pennington Berlin

New Year kicks off with subsidy expiration Editor, Healthcare costs will spike for

24,000,000 people this week. For example, a four-member family with income of $45,000 paid nothing for healthcare last year. This same family will pay $1,600 in 2026 because the enhanced subsidies passed in 2020 expired.

PBS reports an older couple with $85,000 income may find their healthcare insurance plan increase in 2026 by $20,000. The average premium will double this year for enhanced subsidies ACA enrollees.The Congressional Budget Office expects 2.2 million people will drop their coverage this year because the subsidies expired which will make premiums increase even more in the future.

The Maryland Daily Record reports we have a quarter of a million ACA enrollees in Maryland with about 78% previously receiving enhanced subsidies.

The ACA was passed into law in 2010 requiring all Americans to obtain a healthcare plan or receive a penalty tax for not complying. ACA provided the largest expansion of health insurance coverage since Medicare and Medicaid was created in 1965. ACA plan costs were on a sliding scale depending on family income. Prior to this, if you lost your healthcare or never had a plan, you couldn’t find a plan which covered pre-existing conditions. By requiring all people to be insured, regardless of age, the theory was that insurance plan costs would come down because our healthiest people (mostly children and young adults) would be paying into the system. Another advantage of requiring everyone to be covered was that the uninsured would no longer flock to the emergency room for non-emergency care.

Continued on Page 66

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OC Today-Dispatch

JANUARY 2, 2026

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR There have been over 70 attempts in Congress and numerous Supreme Court cases to eliminate the ACA. All have failed while no better plan has emerged. John McCain gave the famous thumbs down vote in 2017 which was the deciding vote to keep ACA. However, in December of that same year, Congress passed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act which eliminated the individual mandate penalty beginning in ’19, so there was no consequence for people who chose to be uninsured. This was a huge blow for the ACA and is the reason why premiums have sky rocketed ever since. Because of this, Congress passed the American Rescue Act of 2021 which created the ACA enhanced subsidies and extended it through ’25 with the Inflation Reduction Act in ’22. The Big Beautiful (so called) Bill passed last summer did not extend the subsidies.

CBS poll (Dec. 17-19) found 68% think the enhanced tax credits should be continued. Hakeen Jeffries has proposed a bill to extend the subsites for three years. Despite Mike Johnson refusing to put the petition to extend subsidies on the floor in December, this petition has bipartisan support in the House with three republicans from Pennsylvania and one republican from New York signing on. The bill should come for a vote this month.

We don’t need a “concept of a plan”. We need to temporarily extend the subsidies until a better bipartisan plan is written and passed. Healthcare should be a right for all Americans.

Tish Michel Ocean City

A sham for taxpayers?

Editor, I would like to congratulate Ocean City’s Acting Fire Chief, Josh Bunting on his retirement. Proudly serving the Town for 25 years to make our community safe for residents and vacationers is admirable and worthy of significant praise. It was a good run and he should go off into the sunset and enjoy his retirement and the healthy pension that comes with it.

Unfortunately, Acting Chief Bunting has indicated his interest at applying for the same position he is vacating. Not only does this tarnish his impeccable reputation that he has earned, but it is a slap in the face to each and every taxpayer in the state of Maryland. So, Mr. Bunting intends to step down to collect his full pension, only to return immediately to the $150,000 year job. In all my years, I would be hard pressed to think of a more classic case of “double dipping.” If Mr. Bunting were interested in community service and

doing right by the citizens, he would not not make such a move. To announce that he is leaving, only to reapply is something that should make even his most vocal supporters uncomfortable.

In her excellent reporting, the OC Today-Dispatch’s Bethany Hooper was spot on when she wrote “Bunting would not only receive the full-time salary – listed between $115,690 to $149,937 but pension payments, which he can collect early without tax penalties – so long as his retirement is viewed as genuine by the IRS….

Otherwise, certain tax penalties would apply if the IRS were to determine that a retirement and a rehiring in the same job were prearranged.”

Nobody with a clear conscious would ever be able to say that this move is not being prearranged. Is there anybody out there that thinks there will be any other candidate considered for the position? Or course not. Doubling down on this thought process is the fact that sitting Councilman and OCVFC Assistant Chief, Will Savage said “I know he will interview well, just because he has had 25 years of career experience.” Can there be any more clear evidence that the fix is in?

We are talking about a tax payer funded pension that the vast majority of Marylanders can only dream about having. Now, we plan to pay that

healthy pension, as well as $150,000 in salary to a person for doing the same job. This is a prime example of why so many people have lost faith in Local Government. It is also important to note this is happening at the same time as thousands of Marylanders are facing steep cuts to SNAP and Medicaid benefits as well as skyrocketing premiums for those with health care coverage under the ACA. The likely effect of these cuts will be less tourism dollars in Town in 2026 as we are giving away the store to double dipping.

Congratulations to Mr. Bunting for creatively gaming the system. He has a well laid out plan of action in place and all indications are his smart planning will come to fruition. This is what has made him a respected and admired Leader. But this case should be the last of such manipulating nonsense. Governor Moore, Senator Carozza, Delegate Hartman, Attorney General Brown and Comptroller Lierman should all be troubled with this blatant abuse of tax payer money. I call on each of them to review this situation, to be sure that a legitimate IRS review is conducted, and to create and actively support legislation that will protect taxpayers by making “Double Dipping” an illegal practice. The taxpayers of Maryland deserve better.

M. Scott Chismar Ocean City

JANUARY 2, 2026

PAGE 67

OC Today-Dispatch

OBITUARIES WILLIAM RICHARD SERMAN Snow Hill William “Bill” Richard Serman, of Snow Hill, a beloved figure in the hearts of many, passed away peacefully on December 23, 2025, at the age of 90. Born on May 9, 1935, in Ridgely, MD, to the late Carroll C. and Ida Mae (Roche) Serman.

Bill worked for Worcester County Roads for 28 years.

He began his career as a Heavy EquipWilliam Serman ment Operator and retired as Assistant Engineer, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and dedication. A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, Bill served as a K-9 handler in the Air Police, creating a lifelong bond with animals that resonated throughout his life. His passion for animals was evident as he raised dogs, cats, and chickens. Outside of work, Bill loved playing baseball and softball, was an avid coon hunter and a spirited go-kart racer, always seeking the thrill of adventure and the joy of a good story.

He leaves behind his loving wife of 66 years, Charlotte C. Serman: his children, Katherine Serman Richey and William Gary Serman (Cynthia); brother, Joseph Serman; sisters, Betty Ann Bozman and Patsy Mulligan. He was a proud grandfather to William Thomas Serman, Katie Kidd (Josh), Emily Ann Serman, and Johnny Richey, and his great-grandchildren, Connor and Cooper Kidd.

A funeral service was held at Trinity United Methodist Church, 8339 Newark Road, Newark, Md. 21841 on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at noon where friends called one hour before the service at the church.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Carroll Serman and a son-inlaw, Sam Richey.

In lieu of flowers donations in his memory may be made to Trinity Garden of Memory, C/O Nancy Bounds, P.O. Box 36, Newark, MD 21841 or Newark Vol. Fire Co., 8338 Newark Road, Newark, MD 21841.

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com.

LINDA ABBOTT LYNCH Berlin Linda Abbott Lynch, age 79, passed away on December 23, 2025 in Salisbury.

Obituary Submissions E-mail: editor@octodaydispatch.com Submitted obituaries will cost $50.00 for print and online publications.

A sales representative from our office will contact you for payment once your submission is sent.

Born on July 25, 1946 in Salisbury, Maryland, she was the daughter of the late William Abbott and Eleanor (Hancock) Abbott.

Linda graduated from Stephen Decatur High School and attended Hood College. She married in 1967 and worked in the family business, the Commander Hotel, until officially retiring in 2015.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, John B. Lynch, III. Linda A. Lynch She is survived by her beloved husband of 58 years, John Lynch, Jr., her son William Lynch, his wife Amanda and their children, Jack and John.

A service was held at Makemie Presbyterian Church in Snow Hill, Maryland on Tuesday December 30, 2025 with a one hour visitation prior to the service.

A graveside was held at the conclusion of the service with a reception to follow inside the church. Donations can be made in her honor to Makemie Presbyterian Church (103 West Market Street Snow Hill, Maryland 21863).

Letters of condolence may be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

SMALL CELL TOWERS One of five new Verizon small cell towers is pictured at the Inlet parking lot. The small cell antennas are expected to boost cell coverage during large special events, particularly the yearly music festivals. Installation is being completed ahead of a parking lot repaving project, scheduled to begin in March.

$1,845.

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JANUARY 2, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

GARDEN CLUB DECORATES CHURCH

WPS MALLARD BOWL WINNERS

Members of the Worcester County Garden Club recently brought clippers, garden gloves and greens from their yards to decorate Historic St. Martin’s Church for the holidays. A long-standing tradition for the club, Historic Preservation Chair Patsy Lohmeyer Bell coordinated this year’s event. Pictured with Bell, left, are Sue Ann Hudson, Sanji Ramnarain, Suzy Young, front, Lisa Bunting, Martha Bennett and Pat Arata. Helping but not pictured was Young’s granddaughter Grace Santomauro.

This year’s Mallard Bowl brought the excitement. On the Friday before Thanksgiving break, the Upper School came alive as students from all four classes battled it out for the coveted trophy. The event even included a fun halftime show that kept the energy high. The competition wrapped up with the freshman class taking home the trophy to their class sponsor, Mrs. Zambori. Congratulations to the freshmen, this year’s Mallard Bowl Champions.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

WCDC PARTY WITH LEGION AUXILIARY The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 166 held its annual Christmas Party for the Worcester County Developmental Center on Dec. 12.

ROTARY DONATES CROCKPOTS Instead of exchanging Christmas presents, members of the Ocean City-Berlin Rotary Club filled a crockpot with a shelf stable meal and donated it to St. Paul's Shepherd's Crook food pantry. The club was able to donate 22 crockpots.

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Sports & Recreation

OC Today-Dispatch Jan. 2, 2026

Page 69

www.octodaydispatch.com

Guard Caleb PorterWise is pictured pulling up for a jumper just outside the paint in the game against Sussex Tech.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Decatur snaps losing streak with win against Sussex Tech

By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer (Jan. 2, 2026) The Governor’s Challenge returned to Maryland for its 43rd year, featuring over 120 high school teams playing at the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center, Wicomico High School and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore.

Stephen Decatur’s boys’ varsity basketball team was invited and won one of two games they played. Decatur defeated Sussex Tech before falling to Laurel.

Junior Jonathan Purnell scored three baskets but excelled in defense during the first Decatur game against Sussex Tech on Dec. 26 – a 65-41 victory. The game’s high scorer was Ricardo Copes with 17 game points including three from deep. Kayden Sharkey and Nicky Soares scored 10 points each.

Decatur led 39-17 at half time. Sussex Tech started the third quarter strong,

Forward Kayden Sharkey is pictured getting to the hoop for a layup over a Sussex Tech defender.

edging Decatur 15-12 for the quarter. In the fourth quarter, Stephen Decatur outscored Sussex Tech by four points.

After the game, Coach BJ Johnson said, “I love it. Anytime you get a W it’s always a good thing. We’re a young and growing team so our motto is to get better each game, and I think we’re doing that … defense went much better. Still got to clean up on some things but these kids are fun to coach and we’re improving.”

In the second game against Laurel High School, Decatur lost 68-56. Copes was the game high scorer again with 14 points, while Purnell had nine.

Through the early part of the season, Decatur has been struggling for wins.

The win over Sussex Tech snapped a three-game losing streak coming into the tournament.

The last game before the tourney the Seahawks were crushed by Arcadia, 8062.

Arcadia came in hot, grabbing a 2116 win after the first quarter.

In the second quarter the Seahawks poured it on with two, three pointers one from Copes and another from Soares. Decatur was down 35-30 at half.

In the third quarter Soares scored again from out of the box and Brooks Waters made a basket and one from the line, while Vernon Deshields made two baskets. Decatur was down 58-50 heading into the final quarter.

Arcadia dominated the fourth quarter, winning 80-62 over Decatur.

After the game, Soares said, “I feel good about tonight’s game. Will be practicing for a good game… going to move the ball around a lot more. Definitely get better shots. Overall, I think we did good.

Just got to tighten up the defense.”

Decatur’s record stands at 2-4 on the season. The next game for the Seahawks is an away game on Jan. 7 at 5:30 p.m. at Mardela High School.

Ricardo Copes converts on a breakaway during the game against Arcadia. Copes led the team in scoring in a losing cause.

Guard Jonathan Purnell scores one of his three baskets during the game against Sussex Tech at the Governor's Challenge.

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JANUARY 2, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

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