01/09/2026 OC Today-Dispatch

OC Today-Dispatch JANUARY 9, 2026

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STUBBORNLY LOCAL, EQUALLY INDEPENDENT

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PENGUIN SWIM More than 800 brave souls registered to take a chilly plunge on New Year’s Day in Ocean City in support of the Atlantic General Hospital Foundation. See page 59 for results.

Councilman’s OC residency challenged

DeLuca: is he is or is he ain’t?

A one-time council candidate who was declared ineligible because of questions about her residency files a formal complaint alleging that Councilman Tony DeLuca wasn’t or isn’t a resident of Ocean City. Now the council must have a special session to find out. — PAGE 3

County snubs Snow Hill grant Some commissioners say worried about flammable solar batteries - which were not part of town’s proposal in first place — PAGE 16

Assessments show increased property values in West OC, county south end — PAGE 14

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OC Today-Dispatch

JANUARY 9, 2026

JANUARY 9, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 3

Council member’s residency questioned, complaint filed

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Jan. 9, 2026) An Ocean City property owner, disqualified from running in the last municipal election over domicile-related eligibility concerns, is now challenging the residency of a sitting council member.

On Monday, Leslie Smith filed a formal complaint with the Town of Ocean City seeking a review of Council Secretary Tony DeLuca’s residency.

The former council candidate – ousted from the 2024 race after it was determined she did not meet the city’s domicile requirements – alleges the same review was not applied to DeLuca, who she claims is living full time in Annapolis.

“I am aware of Ms. Smith’s challenge to my residency. I have nothing to hide, and I look forward to the Mayor and City Council giving me the opportunity to address this matter openly and candidly,” DeLuca said in an email, denying the allegations against him.

“I will rely on the City Solicitor and the City Manager, as to the best next steps towards bringing this matter to a conclusion.”

In the fall of 2024, weeks before the municipal election, the Ocean City

Council voted to disqualify Smith as a candidate, with a majority arguing she did not meet the city’s domicile requirements. While Smith declared her Ocean City property – which she rented out on Airbnb during the summer months – to be her main residence, many argued she resided full time at her property in Bishopville.

That, in turn, kicked off a larger discussion about residency, as well as the need for charter amendments, which were approved last summer.

From the outset, Smith has publicly questioned why she was singled out for her dual residency, when DeLuca – a fellow candidate seeking re-election in 2024 – traveled between his condo in Ocean City and his property in Annapolis. Now, nearly a year-and-a-half later, Smith is seeking a formal review to determine his status as an Ocean City resident, adding she was not treated equally in the review process.

“I just want the record to reflect that there’s a lack of confidence within our community that Councilman DeLuca actually resides in this town fulltime,” she told the City Council during public comments at the end of Monday’s meeting. “I feel the scope, See DELUCA Page 4

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OC Today-Dispatch

JANUARY 9, 2026

DeLuca residency challenged Continued from Page 3 manner and outcome of the residency review applied to me versus Councilman DeLuca raises serious concern regarding selective and inconsistent enforcement.”

DeLuca, who moved to Ocean City in 2008 after retiring as the head of franchising for KFC, was first elected to the council in 2014. In 2024, he was re-elected to his fourth term in office.

However, Smith’s complaint alleges DeLuca was not subject to the same residency review in his re-election campaign. She is asking the city to make a determination.

“I am writing to formally request that the Town of Ocean City conduct a full, formal, and comprehensive residency determination concerning Councilmember Tony DeLuca to assess compliance with the requirements to be an Ocean City resident, as

set forth in the Ocean City Charter, as amended, and applicable provisions of Maryland law,” her complaint reads.

“This request arises from my disqualification from candidacy for Ocean City Council following a residency review conducted by the City.

That determination was based substantially on the fact that I temporarily rented my owner-occupied residence for a limited number of weeks during the summer season, despite residing in the property for the clear majority of the year.”

According to public records, DeLuca purchased his Annapolis property in April of 2023, at the same time he sold his primary residence in Ocean City. In May of 2024, four months before announcing his bid for re-election, he purchased a second property, a 486-square-foot unit

BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

The residency of Tony DeLuca, right, a sitting council member in Ocean City, has been questioned, with a formal complaint arguing that he lives full time in Annapolis.

along Ocean City’s bayside.

At the center of the debate, according to Smith, is whether DeLuca was domiciled in Ocean City prior to the 2024 election, and if he had maintained his domicile during his time in office, as required by the city’s charter.

While he denies Smith’s allegations

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against him, Smith is asking the city to review DeLuca’s location and data usage on his city-issued devices, documentation on his travel and commuting patterns and any other necessary records. She said state and federal agencies had also been notified of her concerns.

“If such a review determines that Councilmember DeLuca does not satisfy the residency or domicile requirements set forth in the Ocean City Charter, I respectfully request that the Town take whatever action is required under the Charter and applicable law to remedy that noncompliance,” her complaint reads.

At the conclusion of Monday’s council meeting, City Solicitor Heather Stansbury confirmed that officials had received Smith’s complaint and that she would be working with City Manager Terry McGean and Council President Matt James to discuss the next steps.

When reached for comment this week, James said there would need to be a unanimous vote of the remaining council members and the mayor to remove DeLuca.

“Without unanimous support for his removal, he will be allowed to stay,” he said. “We will likely need to schedule a special session to have this discussion/hearing.”

DeLuca is not the first council member to have his residency questioned by members of the public.

While no formal complaint was ever filed, debate surrounded former councilman Frank Knight’s formal residence after his long-time home on Mallard Island was sold.

Inside this week Calendar ..............................36 Classifieds ..........................39 Crossword ............................54 Dining Guide ........................52 Editoral/Letters....................56 Entertainment ......................30 Horoscope ............................55 Obituaries ............................60 Police/Crime........................23 Public Notices ......................42 Sports ..................................61

JANUARY 9, 2026

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OC Today-Dispatch

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This beautifully remodeled 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath condo in Lorelei II offers an open floor plan, gourmet kitchen, cozy gas fireplace, and a private balcony with front-row views of Winterfest and fireworks at Northside Park. The spacious primary suite includes a walk-in closet and direct balcony access, plus there are two more large bedrooms and a second full bath. Sold fully furnished and move-in ready, full remodel in 2021. Enjoy community amenities like a pool, plus easy access to the beach, dining, shops, and year-round fun at the park right across the street. MDWO2032542

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OC Today-Dispatch

JANUARY 9, 2026

Ocean City continues short-term rental talk

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Jan. 9, 2026) The Ocean City Council will continue to explore options for limiting the number of short-term rental licenses allowed in single-family neighborhoods.

On Monday, a council majority voted to have city staff come back with an analysis of the effects of either phasing out, freezing or eventually halting the issuance of short-term rental licenses in R-1 residential and MH mobile home communities.

Despite some property owners arguing that vacation rentals have existed in such neighborhoods for decades with few complaints, four of the six council members present this week said something needed to be done to preserve single-family zoning districts.

“For us to sit up here and say that for 50 years we did it this way and not acknowledge that in a much shorter amount of time things have changed an awful lot, I think it’s a little reductive …,” Councilman Jake Mitrecic said this week.

“That would be like saying they used lead paint in houses for 100 years, why do we have to take it out now? Well, if we start to see there’s an issue that’s causing a problem, and it’s degrading the house – so to speak – I do think it’s worth stripping out the lead paint and figuring out an alternative.”

Last month, the council voted to extend a moratorium on the issuance of new short-term rental licenses in R-1 and MH districts. The council majority argued another year was needed to review the effectiveness of

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Options to limit the amount of short-term rentals in single-family neighborhoods were presented

by Planning and Community Development Director George Bendler on Monday night.

newly enacted short-term rental regulations and to discuss additional measures that might be needed.

In preparation for those discussions, council members were tasked with ranking potential options for further regulating vacation rentals in single-family neighborhoods. For those who participated, the council majority agreed with a few major goals – limiting the number of vacation rentals, reducing vacation rental turnover, and reducing the impacts they may have on the surrounding community.

With those goals in mind, the council began its deliberations Monday by focusing its discussion on ways to manage the ownership and quantity of short-term rentals in the two zoning districts.

In terms of ownership, the council explored several options, including prohibiting corporate or investment groups from obtaining a short-term rental license in R-1 and MH, limiting the number of short-term rentals a single person or entity can own in R1 and MH, and only allowing Ocean City residents to obtain short-term rental licenses in the two districts.

However, the ownership issue was ultimately tossed, citing the legal questions it posed and the potential loopholes that existed.

“I don’t see that it accomplishes anything,” Councilwoman Carol Proctor said.

The council then moved on to the quantity of short-term rentals in single-family neighborhoods. Mitrecic said online platforms such as Airbnb and VRBO have changed the vacation rental industry, particularly since the COVID pandemic, and that something needed to be done.

Proctor, however, continued to oppose additional regulations. She said the limited number of police calls on short-term rentals showed there was no significant problem in R-1 and MH communities.

Data presented this week show that while the number of short-term rentals in single-family neighborhoods have grown 36% in the pandemic years, calls for service to those

properties have either remained flat or have decreased.

“When I look at the calls to police, and when I compare them to the entire town’s calls, you don’t have an issue …,” Proctor said. “There are more calls for service for people who actually live here and aren’t rentals.”

Mitrecic countered that he was more concerned about the loss of neighborhood character and the displacement of year-round residents than he was the crime rate or police statistics.

“I will say, for me, the crime rate is not the end-all be-all statistic that is the crux of this argument,” he said.

Mitrecic, along with other council members, said they wanted the city to explore options for either phasing out short-term rentals in R-1 and MH districts, or freezing the number of licenses at the current level. With those two options, existing licenses would remain valid but would not be transferable and would not run with the property.

Under the “phase out” model, the number of short-term rental licenses would eventually reduce to zero as properties are sold or licenses are not renewed. Under the “freeze” model, new license applications would be placed on a waiting list and would be awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis when a property with an existing license is sold or not renewed.

Councilman Will Savage also suggested a third option, which would set a cut-off date for short-term rental licenses. Anyone owning or purchasing property before that date would be able to obtain a license.

“I don’t want to limit ourselves to options one and two,” he said.

Ultimately, the council voted 4-2, with Council President Matt James and Proctor opposed, and Councilman John Gehrig absent, to continue exploring the three options for limiting the number of short-term rentals in single-family neighborhoods. They directed staff to come back with discussion points at a future meeting.

“The more we talk about this, the less interested I am in doing any of these options,” James said.

JANUARY 9, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

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OC Today-Dispatch

JANUARY 9, 2026

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PAGE 9

OC Today-Dispatch

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PAGE 10

OC Today-Dispatch

JANUARY 9, 2026

Lower Shore reps preparing for 2026 session General Assembly to kick off session next week; local lawmakers pitch legislation

By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Jan. 9, 2026) Budget concerns and energy policy are expected to dominate the agenda for the Maryland General Assembly, while Lower Shore lawmakers target voter roll policies and other issues ahead of next week’s 2026 Legislative Session.

Sen. Mary Beth Carozza said it’s “unprecedented” for lawmakers to begin a session with a new Speaker of the House in the fourth year of a gubernatorial term instead of the first.

Del. Joseline Peña-Melnyk replaced outgoing speaker Del. Adrienne Jones, who stepped away from lead-

ership, triggering a carousel of committee chair changes.

“If you think about this session, it’s an election year session with an election year budget,” Carozza (R-38, Worcester) told OC Today-Dispatch, “and, on top of it, major leadership changes in the House of Delegates that ends up impacting the entire Maryland General Assembly.”

After tackling a $3 billion budget deficit in 2025, lawmakers this year reportedly are facing another $1 billion gap. Carozza said her fellow Republicans – outnumbered 3-to-1 in Annapolis – should offer an alternative budget to Gov. Wes Moore’s, one that scales back education spending mandates and gives local governments greater control.

Carozza has pre-filed three bills ahead of the Jan. 14 session start, two

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of which are being reintroduced from sales tax. Hartman (R-38C, Worces2025. ter) plans to introduce legislation that Her priority bill would require spe- will reinstate the exemption. cialized training for state workers With market prices for gold at who evaluate sensitive child custody about $4,400 per ounce, it means a situations. It will be the sixth time she two-ounce, $9,000 investment would has introduced such legislation. incur an additional $540 in taxes.

Carozza says what makes the pro“It’d be like paying 6 percent on posal different this year is how the your 401(k),” Hartman told OC state judiciary has already updated its Today-Dispatch. “People aren’t own rules to reflect the same stan- gonna do it. They’re gonna go to dards outlined in her bill. The legis- neighboring states to buy gold or sillation would codify those rules, ver.” requiring child custody evaluators to “That's a message we always try to meet certain qualifications and train- convey in Annapolis,” he added, “being benchmarks. cause those in central Maryland don't She is also reviving a previously have that luxury or think like that. filed bill she calls the “Fairness in But here, when you're so close to a Girls Sports” act. Carozza said her tax-free state, you know, as far as constituents – particularly female sales tax, it's something that people high school athletes and coaches – really consider and it hurts our local have urged her to pursue the issue. businesses.”

“It basically says that if you’re a biHartman said another priority bill ological girl, you know, girls play girl would lower the corporate income tax sports [and] boys rate. He said the play boy sports,” state never acted on she said. “It would ‘It basically says that if you’re similar recommennot necessarily predations aimed at ata biological girl, you know, vent a female from t r a c t i n g trying out or playprivate-sector ingirls play girl sports [and] ing on a boys’ team. vestment, and “we boys play boy sports.’

But if you’re born as can no longer rely Sen. Mary Beth Carozza on federal jobs the a biological male, you would not play way Maryland used on a girls’ high to.” school competitive team. That comes “With the Trump administration, down to both a fairness issues and a there was a lot of cuts to the federal safety issue.” jobs. That, I think, is part of the reaAnother bill from Carozza stems son why we had another budget from conflict between the Somerset deficit that we're facing this coming County school board and its now-for- year,” he said. mer superintendent, Ava TaskerHe also plans to reintroduce legisMitchell, who was removed last lation to delay the state’s push to summer after prolonged friction with limit greenhouse gas emissions. the board and its president.

Under the Maryland’s Climate EnThe legislation would impose a 90- ergy Solutions Now Act of 2022, large day limit on appeals filed by an un- commercial buildings must transition seated school superintendent or from fossil fuels toward all-electric school board member, rather than al- systems. It would require many of lowing an open-ended process. Worcester County’s largest buildings Carozza said she is working with the to take boilers or furnaces offline and Maryland Association of Boards of convert to electrical power by the Education as well as the state’s edu- year 2040. Hartman’s bill would cation department on the details. push that deadline back five years, to “That's too long of timeframe for a 2045. school system to experience that upBoth Carozza and Hartman also heaval,” Carozza said. “In the end, are planning to tackle the business of this should be about what's best for cleaning up voter rolls, which they the students.” say is bipartisan. They argue the State Other initiatives from Carozza in- Board of Elections moves too slowly clude an effort to outlaw panhandling to remove deceased voters from the and solicitation on open roadways in rolls and the process should be modWicomico County, and a push to ernized. renew and secure federally lapsed Elsewhere in Annapolis, there will permitting for farmers seeking to be a new face in the House of Delebuild new chicken houses. gates representing the Lower Shore.

Del. Wayne Hartman hasn’t preFormer Del. Charles Otto, a Refiled any bills – a practice that can publican representing District 38A sometimes lead to multiple bill hear- since 2010, died unexpectedly in Ocings being scheduled at the same time tober at age 60.

– but he still expects to be busy early The governor appointed Princess in the session.

Anne farmer Kevin Anderson to comLast year, the state removed a plete the remainder of Otto’s term. sales tax exemption for gold and sil- Anderson did not return messages ver bullion, making precious metal seeking comment for this report by purchases subject to Maryland’s 6% press time.

JANUARY 9, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 11

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OC Today-Dispatch

JANUARY 9, 2026

Ocean City taking bids for shiny new Boardwalk signs Some of the new city signs proposed for the Boardwalk are shown in the rendering.

SUBMITTED IMAGE/ OC TODAYDISPATCH

Resort plans to spend six figures on branding project

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Jan. 9, 2026) Ocean City government staff will begin reviewing bids and selecting a vendor to complete an overhaul of Boardwalk signage.

On Monday, the City Council directed staff to review the bids received for a project to consolidate and install new municipal signs along the Boardwalk. The bids ranged from $425,369 to $755,000.

In 2024, the city contracted with Sky Design to develop a plan for consolidating and revamping its Boardwalk signage. And, last winter, company representatives came before the City Council with their proposed designs, which incorporated the city’s new “Somewhere to Smile About” brand and color scheme on welcome signs, wayfinding and regulatory placards, and more.

With the council’s blessing to move forward, the design process continued through the early part of 2025. And in May, city staff presented officials with an update, during which the Ocean City Development Corporation’s board expressed its disapproval of the signs’ bright, glossy look.

However, the council continued to support the proposed design. And this week, officials opened the bids the city received for the project, budgeted at $765,000.

Plak That submitted a $425,369 bid for the first option – which would have the city’s public works department remove the old signage – and $436,533 for the second option.

KM Printing LLC submitted a $469,031 bid for option one and a $481,281 bid for option two, MS Signs Inc. submitted a $559,765 bid for option one and a $588,190 bid for option two, and SSC Signs & Lighting submitted a $673,806 bid for option one and a $744,738 bid for option two.

A final vendor submitted a bid of $750,000 for option one and $755,000 for option two. One late bid, received three days after the deadline, was not accepted.

With no further discussion, the council this week voted 6-0, with Councilman John Gehrig absent, to accept the bid and remand them to staff for further review. According to bid documents, the plan is to complete the project by mid-May.

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Soource ! www.octodaydispatch.com www..octodaydispatch www dispatch.com .

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PAGE 13

PAGE 14

OC Today-Dispatch

JANUARY 9, 2026

Property values rise in latest reassessment Values jump for residential, commercial parcels in West OC, south Worcester County

By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Jan. 9, 2026) Property taxes will rise this year for many homeowners in West Ocean City and in southern Worcester County after the latest round of statewide tax assessments showed a rise in values for more than 90% of affected properties.

The state mailed assessments Dec. 30 to 15,300 residential and commercial accounts in the areas of Newark, Snow Hill, Girdletree, Stockton and Pocomoke City, as well as West Ocean City and the South Point area. This year’s reassessment area is known as Group 2.

According to the state’s Department of Assessments and Taxation, or SDAT, more than 90% of residential properties in Group 2 will see higher assessments, along with about 76% of commercial parcels. Any increases will be phased in over the next three years. Property owners may appeal their new values at the county level.

SDAT divides Worcester County into three different areas, with each reassessed once every three years.

The most recent residential Group

2 assessment data from January 2023 showed a total property value of $3.46 billion. For 2025, the new residential total is $3.82 billion, a 10.5% increase. Commercial assessments rose about 8.5% over the same period.

Group 2 generally covers the southern end of Worcester. On a map, it can roughly be traced by drawing a line from the narrowest part of the county at the Pocomoke River across to Newport Bay and including everything south of it.

Last year, Group 1 homeowners in Berlin, Bishopville, Ocean Pines, and Showell got a 27% tax increase. Group 3 is for Ocean City properties and will be reassessed in 2027.

Worcester County contains about 55,000 total residential properties, including condos and single-family homes. Apartments are considered commercial property. Statewide, SDAT mailed about 790,000 notices from its Baltimore headquarters.

Average tax assessments statewide increased by about 12%, compared with Worcester’s roughly 10% increase, according to Amy Smith, SDAT’s supervisor of assessments for Worcester County.

Residential assessments are based on market value, drawing from three years of sales data. Commercial val-

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ues are based either on the market price or the amount of income a business generates, Smith said.

A decade ago, Group 2 statewide assessments in Worcester increased by 4.7% before leveling off for most of the 2010s. Values rose sharply again in 2023-24, in some cases by more than 20%, generating estimated millions in new revenue for the county.

Worcester County still has not released a final budget surplus figure for fiscal 2025. Officials attribute the delay to the transition of hiring a new auditing firm.

This is also the first year that the county’s new zeroed-out Homestead Tax Credit takes effect. State law allows counties to set their own cap on a Homestead Tax Credit from 0 to 10%, and the County Commissioners last year voted to lower that cap to zero.

This latest round of assessments will generate approximately $14.9 million for Worcester County, an 8% increase, according to spokeswoman Kim Moses.

Preliminary revenue estimates for fiscal 2027 show the county taking in about $210 million in revenue, less $9.7 million from homestead tax credits and $188,200 in other tax abatements.

For fiscal 2026, which ends June

30, the county budgeted $192.8 million in total revenue from real and personal property taxes. The 2026 budget also includes a $7 million revenue loss from homestead tax credits.

Commissioner President Ted Elder and Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young both said the expected revenue would not account for any actions taken from the state during the upcoming legislative session, which opens Wednesday in Annapolis.

“That number assumes a variety of things,” Young said, “and it does not include any unfunded mandates passed down.”

Elsewhere in Maryland, Montgomery County recorded the highest total residential value for Group 2 properties at $71.8 billion, a 12.6% increase. Washington County posted the highest Group 2 percentage increase, at 22.8%.

On the Lower Shore, Wicomico County saw a 17.7% increase for its 11,286 Group 2 property accounts, from $2.45 billion to $2.88 billion.

Somerset County — the only county where total residential value was measured in millions, not billions — rose from $461 million to $510 million, a 10.5% increase.

It also had the smallest Group 2 tally statewide, at just 3,060 residential accounts.

JANUARY 9, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 15

Green-painted bike lanes will get a downtown tryout OC Council approves pilot program to stripe St. Louis Avenue at 6 intersections

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Jan. 9, 2026) The Town of Ocean City will soon test green bike lane markings on portions of St. Louis Avenue.

On Monday, the Ocean City Council agreed to proceed with a pilot program along the city-owned street.

Recommended by the city’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC), the plan is to install green pavement markings at intersections near traffic lights along Philadelphia Avenue.

“In lieu of putting green markings down the full length of St. Louis Avenue, my discussions with BPAC were to do this as a pilot program and give it a try to see if it will create visual awareness to motorists entering the St. Louis Avenue corridor and in an effort to protect the bicyclists,” Public Works Director Hal Adkins told the council this week.

Council Secretary Tony DeLuca, committee liaison, said he was seeking the council’s support of the pilot program. He said the recommendation was first handed down by the Maryland State Highway Administration.

“This is a safety feature that they do in other areas, and they recommended it for us here,” he explained. “And we thought it would be best that we test it at St. Louis Avenue. So that’s the motion from BPAC.” Specifically, the markings would be placed along St. Louis Avenue, at its intersections with 2nd Street, 5th Street, 8th Street, 12th Street, 15th Street and 17th Street. Adkins said those intersections coincided with the traffic lights along Philadelphia Avenue.

When asked about the green paint and markings being used for the project, Adkins said they would comply with federal rules and regulations. He said he expected the pilot program to cost the city no more than $7,000, but that public works was still awaiting the final cost estimate from its vendor, Straight Line.

With no further discussion, the council on Monday voted 6-0, with Councilman John Gehrig absent, to approve the pilot program.

The council this week also agreed to bring forward a resolution at the committee’s recommendation that would allow bicycle use on the Philadelphia Avenue sidewalk, between Caroline and South 1st streets, and along the easterly Coastal Highway sidewalk, between 60th and 63rd streets.

While the council last year voted to ban the use of bicycles, scooters, and other similar vehicles on city side-

walks, it did leave open an option to allow such uses in certain areas, so long as it’s approved by resolution.

“As you know, when we passed the ordinance, we said that by resolution we can add bikes, if council approved,” DeLuca reminded his colleagues.

For his part, Adkins said that when Philadelphia Avenue was reconstructed in the late 1990s, a 14-foot sidewalk was included for bike and pedestrian use. He added that markings and signage along that sidewalk indicated bike use was allowed.

“A decision, when you make it, is if you don't permit it, I need to be instructed to remove all the signage,” he explained, “because right now it’s permitted by signage.”

SUBMITTED IMAGE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

A rudimentary rendering shows what bike lane markings may look like at the intersection of St. Louis Avenue and 2nd Street.

PAGE 16

OC Today-Dispatch

JANUARY 9, 2026

Confusion surrounds town’s request for letter of support Snow Hill seeks Worcester’s support for state grant to audit town’s energy usage

By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Jan. 9, 2026) Snow Hill’s pursuit of a state grant to cover the cost of an in-house energy audit hit unexpected resistance Tuesday when the Worcester County Commissioners declined to issue a letter of support for the grant application.

Some commissioners indicated they thought the project involved planning for solar battery storage – and, for that reason, voted to reject the measure, saying that industrial batteries connected to photovoltaic power sources were hazardous.

However, Snow Hill Town Manager Rick Pollitt said that isn’t the case and is unsure how the confusion arose. All they wanted, he said, was to proceed with an assessment of how much electricity the town was using.

Pollitt said he was unable to attend Tuesday’s commissioner meeting because of other commitments. Now he says he’s “in the dark” on what happened.

“My understanding was the only thing we were looking at was a grant to conduct an audit, period,” Pollitt told OC Today-Dispatch. “The way it was pitched to me was, it would be an audit, then a follow-up to see whatever the audit recommended.”

At the meeting, Commissioner Caryn Abbott specifically asked that this agenda item be isolated for discussion so she could make a motion to deny it, saying, “I don’t support the battery storage for the solar.”

Commissioner Chip Bertino, who seconded that motion, later added

that he based his vote on the information provided – about a state program supporting battery units for solar power.

He said such energy storage devices, if they ever catch fire, can be dangerous and hard for firefighters to extinguish, which is why he was opposed.

The commissioners ultimately voted 5-2 against sending a letter of support. Commissioners Diana Purnell and Joe Mitrecic voted “no” on the motion.

After the meeting, Bertino (District 5, Ocean Pines) said the confusion about what Snow Hill wanted from the project could have been cleared up if a representative from the town had been available to answer questions. “We could have solved the issue immediately and in real time,” he said.

County Administrator Weston Young said Maryland Energy Administration grants like these tend to support “microgrids,” or small-scale solar and battery installations that provide power to critical infrastructure like water or wastewater plants.

Calling it a pre-construction planning grant, Young said the town could still apply without the county’s support. “The money doesn’t flow through us at all. We just won’t be an active partner in this. So, there’s no downside,” he said.

According to a Dec. 30 internal memo from Legislative Analyst Charlene Sharpe to the commissioners, which is public record, Snow Hill came seeking the support letter as part of a state grant application, one that would pay for an audit of the town’s energy use. Batteries were not mentioned.

Pollitt explained to OC Today-Dis-

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

HOLIDAY SPIRIT DAY Ocean City Elementary celebrated its annual Holiday Spirit Day on Dec.18. Students, faculty and staff ended the day with a holiday sing-along and a special performance by the OC Stars.

patch how Snow Hill had not sought out the initiative. Instead, the town had been approached by two separate energy consultants, each saying they could write a grant request to the state on the town’s behalf. That grant would pay for an assessment of municipal energy usage.

“It was a two-step process, and the first step was to apply for this grant,” Pollitt said. “Both were centered on evaluating how we spent for energy.

We made sure we didn’t have to do anything. We would cooperate with them to give them the information.”

Pollitt also said there was no intent to pursue anything but funds to cover their energy audit and, as far as he knows, the consultant was not pushing for anything connected to batteries or solar.

Snow Hill opted to work with a Maryland firm called Optimize Renewables and gave permission for CEO Len Jornlin to communicate

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He emailed Young on Dec. 22 about a grant proposal for an energy infrastructure assessment under the Resilient Maryland grant program.

The program’s website says it’s making $500,000 available to grant applicants.

Jornlin wrote that, with the town’s blessing, his firm had mostly completed writing the grant. All they needed was a recommendation letter from the county to meet the Dec. 31 application deadline. The deadline was later extended by the state to Jan. 9.

When reached for comment Wednesday, Young told OC-Today Dispatch that the county commissioners are supportive of Snow Hill, but “when you dig into this one, it is about solar and battery storage.

“The commissioners, being consistent, have been against solar – in this case, it’s the threat of a battery system,” he said. “These battery installations, when they catch on fire, just like an electric car battery, it takes a significant amount of water to put those out over and above an internal combustion fire. A lot of our fire companies are not prepped for that. The smoke is infinitely more toxic.”

Young added, “If it was called an ‘energy audit grant,’ they may have acted differently.”

In a phone call this week, Jornlin said the confusion likely stems from the fact that there wasn’t a briefing in advance to county officials, and that dialogue between officials over the holiday season was spotty.

He’s open to appear before the commissioners to explain things more clearly.

The big picture, he added, is that smaller towns can’t necessarily afford to spend on an energy audit and state grant funding can fill that need.

“It’s simply creating an assessment and a plan for energy infrastructure,” Jornlin said.

JANUARY 9, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

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JANUARY 9, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

OC auctions off beach item rental parcels Ocean City collects $874K in latest round as franchise revenues continue decline

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Jan. 9, 2026) Revenue generated from a recent auction of beach equipment rental franchises declined for a second year in a row.

On Monday, as part of its consent agenda, the Ocean City Council voted to award contracts for 33 south-end parcels and one north-end parcel to five bidders wishing to rent umbrellas, chairs and other equipment to beachgoers next season. The auction, held Dec. 3, brought in $874,500, or 16% less revenue than the last round of bidding for south-end parcels.

Currently, the city franchises 70 beach equipment parcels spanning the entire Ocean City beach, with the parcels divided into three sections – south end, mid-beach, and north end.

Each year, one of those three sections is auctioned off, with the highest bidders receiving a three-year contract to rent umbrellas, chairs and other equipment on the beach. The city’s code also provides one option for first-term contract renewals at an annual fee of 10% greater than the

FILE PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Beach umbrellas, most of which are privately owned, are set up along the sand in midtown Ocean City.

initial term.

This year, south-end parcels, from the inlet to 27th Street, were scheduled for auction. Of 34 south-end parcels, 33 were auctioned, as only one first-term contract was renewed for a second three-year term. One north-end parcel, between 128th and 130th streets, was also included in the auction, as the current franchisee will

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terminate their agreement with two years remaining on the current contract.

In presenting the auction results to the council Monday, City Clerk Diana Chavis reported that overall revenues declined 12%, as the city currently collects more than $1.2 million from all of its parcels.

With the auction concluded, the

council members voted 6-0, with Councilman John Gehrig absent, to award the 33 south-end parcels and one north-end parcel to the five bidders.

The council also voted to collect $2,000 from the previous operator of the north-end parcel, which is the difference between the original bid and the new bid.

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By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Jan. 9, 2026) Worcester County is moving ahead with a plan to distribute more than $1 million in cannabis tax revenue, with a late April deadline to notify grant recipients.

The 10-member panel appointed by the commissioners to manage and award grant funds, known as the Local Management Board (LMB), will be finalizing its grant distribution plan for 2026, according to Shylia Tingle, who oversees Worcester’s LMB. Tingle addressed the Worcester County Commissioners on Tuesday during a public hearing. She explained that the county’s LMB will reopen and update previously received grant applications. They’ll also hold pre-proposal meetings and establish new scoring for applications using standardized criteria. Grant recipients will be notified by April 26.

Originally, counties were told to use tax money for “community-based initiatives.” That proved too broad, so the state’s Office of Social Equity tightened the framework for cannabis fund grantees last year. Changes in state guidance narrowed the program’s focus toward health and social-equity outcomes.

The result was that counties needed not only a more formal set of plans for grant distribution, but stakeholder engagement and public hearings as well. It meant Worcester County’s original cannabis grant program had to be reworked.

The commissioners also decided to task the LMB with running the grant program instead of doing it themselves. Prior to the state changes, the commissioners had directly received 23 grant applications from nonprofits, churches, businesses, and municipalities.

Now, funding will be available only to support a limited number of purposes, including behavioral health services, education and after-school programs, housing initiatives, and job training. State law says the money can’t be used for existing county pro-

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Cannabis tax for local projects grams or for law enforcement.

The goal of Tuesday’s hearing was to solicit public comment on the new distribution plan. A handful of people stood to speak.

Lisa Challenger, the county’s former tourism director who now oversees the Beach to Bay Heritage Area, wanted to know more about how the grant criteria had been narrowed toward social equity partners.

Frederick Jarmon of Bishopville asked whether local churches could apply for grant funds, and whether the commissioners had any input on grantee selection. Tingle told him that churches can apply and the commissioners can offer feedback, but later in the process.

Lauren Cooper, executive director of the Worcester County Child Advocacy Center, wanted to know whether time limits would be placed on when awardees could spend the money.

She was told that grant-funded projects would not be limited to fiscal year and would be project-dependent.

Sara Gorfinkel, assistant to the mayor’s office of the Town of Berlin, wanted to know whether there would be any stipulations against construction for grant applicants. She was told this would not be a problem and that Berlin – which already submitted a grant, along with the county’s other

three towns – should simply mention they hoped to put funds toward a new build.

Since Maryland legalized recreational cannabis in 2023, about a third of all sales tax revenue has been funneled into the state’s Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund.

Adult-use cannabis revenue is taxed at 12% while registered medical patients do not pay sales tax.

Worcester County has been receiving a 1.2% distribution from that fund, and it’s brought the county more than $1 million in revenue for the last two years.

While sales data for the full year haven’t been released by the state comptroller’s office, partial data shows Maryland collected more than $62 million from adult-use tax revenue in 2025. The tax rate also increased from 9% in the first half of 2025 to 12% on July 1.

Overall, the state generated more than $1 billion in 2025 sales, including medical and adult-use, according to the Maryland Cannabis Administration.

Each of Maryland’s 23 counties and Baltimore City each have their own Local Management Board, which aims to provide communitybased services and coordinate community grants, with a priority given to children and at-risk families.

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OC Today-Dispatch

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JANUARY 9, 2026

Ice flowers

Cold sculpture by nature Photos

by Allen Sklar Ice Flowers, frost flowers, ice hair. No matter what they are called, no label can adequately describe the beauty of these ephemeral swirls of ice found infrequently here and around the world on certain families of plants.

Local photographer and naturalist Allen Sklar discovered these examples of “ice segregation” on a recent chilly morning while exploring on Assateague Island.

Ice segregation is the term used to describe the process of water pushing its way up and to the surface of something and emerging as ice. On one hand, it’s powerful enough to force sidewalks to buckle and on the other it can produce these delicate, short-lived blossom-like structures that look like they belong in “Avatar” films.

For this process to happen, the air temperature must be below freezing for several hours, while the ground must be warm enough to allow the moisture in it to remain unfrozen.

When this occurs, the moisture is drawn into the dead plant’s stem by capillary action the same way fluid climbs up a lighter’s wick.

The liquid in the plant expands as it cools until is forces its way through the cracks and pores in the stem and, upon being exposed to the sub-freezing air, freezes and grows in layers.

The plant in Sklar’s photos is goldenrod located in a freshwater boggy area in the woods. The goldenrod’s stem has a pithy or hollow center and may be made more porous by a fungus during the plant’s decomposition, according to Sklar. Those pores, he said, are smaller than a human hair, hence the paper-thin extrusions that join to form a “petal.”

Ice flowers can occur wherever plants such as goldenrod, white crownbeard (also known as frostweed) yellow ironweed and dittany grow and the temperatures fall below freezing.

They are rarely seen because conditions must be exactly right for them to be created, they are fragile and once they have “bloomed,” they don’t last long.

— Stewart Dobson

JANUARY 9, 2026

Ocean City’s new K-9 officer has a nose for police work (Jan. 9, 2026) The Ocean City Police Department has added its first bloodhound to the agency’s K-9 unit.

This week, the department announced that PFC Devin Bartrom and K-9 Mackenzie, a 16-month-old bloodhound, recently completed a six-week training program led by Wynn Warren of Diesel Dogs K-9. On New Year’s Eve, the agency’s newest K-9 team hit the streets of Ocean City.

Mackenzie was donated by Public Safety Dogs Inc., a nonprofit organization originally founded in 2003 as Canines for Kids Inc, and is trained to trail and locate criminal suspects, missing vulnerable adults, and abducted or missing juveniles.

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OC Today-Dispatch

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JANUARY 9, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

Deputies to attend hostage rescue training

By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Jan. 9, 2026) The Worcester County Commissioners approved an out-ofstate travel request for the sheriff to send his tactical response team to a week of training this spring, although one commissioner did object to the cost.

The state-mandated training is for the Sheriff's Tactical Armed Response Team (STAR), a specialized unit that responds to emergencies like a SWAT team would. Over a two-week period in late April and early May, Worcester County Sheriff Matt Crisafulli plans to send 16 of his deputies to a hostage rescue training course in North Carolina.

“This type of training is not just your everyday training,” the sheriff told the commissioners at Tuesday’s meeting.

“This allows for real-life, real live scenario-based training.”

Crisafulli told OC Today-Dispatch that deputies are going to Academi, one of the nation’s largest private law enforcement and military training centers.

The facility offers programs in tactical combat, firearms, and emergency response, according to its website.

STAR Team leader Lt. Robert Price told the commissioners that coursework specifically will offer deputies the opportunity to respond to live-fire training, which “most of the team has never experienced.” It also will give deputies the chance to burnish their skills in unfamiliar surroundings, he added.

The overall cost is $47,349, which includes about $800 in meals. Crisafulli said that cost will be covered by his existing operating budget.

He also noted that previously budgeted training funds were freed up after

deputies were unable to attend another training opportunity due to scheduling conflicts.

Commissioner Jim Bunting wondered aloud whether the cost could have been covered with a grant, or how training could have been held locally to save money.

“It’s an unfunded state mandate, which the county has to pay for,” Bunting groused.

“One of the many, sir,” Crisafulli responded.

“The whole thing is $47,000 – that’s a lot of money,” added Bunting (District 6, Bishopville). “I don’t like the thought of 8 members being off the road… I think we could have looked at it a little bit closer and done a better job here.”

Crisafulli said eight deputies per week will attend the course. He decided to not send away all 16 trainees at once because it would hurt operations by taking too many deputies off the road and supervisors out of the office.

He also noted how having his tactical team properly trained also takes the county off the hook for potential liabil-

ity.

“Right now, we’re doing this the best way we can,” the sheriff said. “Commissioner Bunting, I appreciate your question, but I would have to say we did look into this very deeply.”

For the past year, Sheriff Crisafulli has been sounding the alarm that his department has been understaffed by 9-10 deputies. He’s also up against a recruiting arms race, as other regional police agencies continue to offer higher salaries and bonuses.

Crisafulli recently asked the commissioners for increased funding to help with recruiting and retention but was told to come back at budget time.

The commissioners ultimately approved Tuesday’s training request by a vote of 6-0, with Bunting abstaining.

“I’m not objecting to the training,” he said. “But I am objecting to the state, with all these unfunded mandates. If they want us to do this, they should be looking at how they can help pay for it.

That’s why I’m going to abstain from voting for it, not because of what you are asking.”

TOWN OF BERLIN

PUBLIC NOTICE CASE NO. 9508 (t) BEFORE THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION OF MARYLAND THE CONTINUING INVESTIGATION OF THE ELECTRIC FUEL RATE AND PURCHASED POWER COST ADJUSTMENT CHARGES OF THE MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC SYSTEM OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF BERLIN. PUBLIC UTILITY LAW JUDGE’S NOTICE OF HEARING An evidentiary hearing in the above-captioned matter will be held on Monday, January 26, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. in the Public Service Commission of Maryland’s 19th-floor hearing room, William Donald Schaefer Tower, 6 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, Maryland. Supplemental evidence will be presented at the hearing, which is a follow-up of the one held on December 18, 2025.

The hearing will be livestreamed on the Public Utility Law Judge’s YouTube Channel, using the following link: https://bit.ly/2X6wLiP

JANUARY 9, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

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JANUARY 9, 2026

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF GOOD BOY MFG.

NYE IN BERLIN Thousands of locals and visitors turned out for an early kids ball drop at 6 p.m. on New Year’s Eve to celebrate the start of 2026 in Berlin. Pictured are crowd shots from the event.

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Located on a cul-de-sac in beautiful Colonial Village! Experience the perfect blend of classic elegance and modern living with the Bristol II. The formal living room & formal dining room are perfect for hosting gatherings. The combined Great Room, Breakfast Room and Kitchen create an inviting space for get togethers. Retreat to your Owner's Bedroom, which features a luxurious ensuite bathroom. In addition, three more bedrooms offer flexibility for family or guests.

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JANUARY 9, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

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JANUARY 9, 2026

JANUARY 9, 2026

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COMMUNITY BRIEFS

Bingo for Babies Throughout the month of January, the Knights of Columbus in Ocean City on 99th Street will be dedicating all profits from their regular Friday night Bingo games to “Bingo for Babies” to benefit the Grace Center for Maternal and Women’s Health located in Berlin.

The dates are Jan. 9, 16, 23 and 30.

Attendees can play every game for the base price of $25. Cash prizes are awarded for every game. A jackpot game at the end of the evening is worth up to $1,000 for a cover-all. Doors open at 5 p.m. with games beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Space is limited so come early. Refreshments are available for sale and will also benefit the Grace Center.

LY N O

TS O P 5S

ESPT n 50 Miinute ne te Strreetch 3 x 4.14 s ssion Receeive Next One Half--Price Calll 410-641-2900 fo or Appointment

Film festival announced Early bird passes are now on sale for the 10th Annual Ocean City Film Festival, a production of the Art League of Ocean City, coming to resort theaters and venues Mar. 5-8, 2026. The Town of Ocean City is a major sponsor for the festival.

Over four days, the festival will screen more than 100 independent films, both locally-made and from around the world, including short films and feature-length movies. Screenings will be held at venues across Ocean City and West Ocean City.

Discounted Tier One ticket pricing is available until Feb. 15, 2026 and includes $125 for a four-day pass and $35 for a one-day pass. Prices will increase on Feb. 16 to Tier Two pricing that includes $145 for a four-day pass and $40 for a one-day pass. Tickets are available for purchase at OCMDFilmFestival.com.

“Buy early and save,” Rina Thaler, executive director of the Art League, said.

“We are so excited to be celebrating our 10th big season that we’re offering special early bird rates for our loyal fans and newcomers. We hope you’ll join us for a very special year of programming.”

Comedy icon Patton Oswalt headlines this year’s festival, performing live at the Ocean City Performing Arts Center on Thursday, March 5 at 7 p.m. Tickets will be sold separately.

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Student achievements The following represents a collection of press releases sent to this paper.

• Steven Pacobit of Ocean City, was recently elected to membership into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation's most selective collegiate honor society, at University of Maryland Global Campus.

• Collin Berke of Ocean City and Jarrett Humphress of Ocean City have been named to the Southern New Hampshire University Fall Dean’s List.

• Kiley Kaeufer of Berlin was among over half of Belmont University's undergraduate students named to the fall 2025 semester Dean's List.

• A graduate of Stephen Decatur, Allison Swift of Showell is a member of the Muhlenberg Division III women's basketball team as a freshman.

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JANUARY 9, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

Resort Real Estate, Inc. Resort Rentals, LLC

Call Tony Matrona for more info on these properties.

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Lot # 103 REDUCED $25,000!

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Fully Furnished 2 Bedroom Cottage. New Roof in 2020. Updates in the last 3 years; HVAC, Windows Hot Water Heater, Drywall, LVP Floors, Kitchen Cabinets, Countertops, Stainless Steel Appliances, Walk in Shower, Sink & Toilet, French Door with Built in Blinds, Enclosed Porch with AC & Heat, Insulation, Composite Deck, Steps & Vinyl Railing, Concrete Driveway. 8 x 10 Shed. Motivated Seller Make An Offer!

Call Tony Matrona 410-641-1671

Lot # 419 Spacious Fully Furnished 2 Bedroom Cottage Overlooking Rec. Center Pool. LVP Flooring, Granite Countertops, Drywall Interior, Cathedral Ceiling, Skylights, Bow Window in Dining Area, Gas Stove, Dishwasher, Built-in Microwave, Stack Washer/Dryer, Enclosed Courtyard with Retractable Awning & 8 x 10 Shed.

$235,000 REDUCED $22,000!

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Lot # 257 Beautiful Spacious Open Concept 2 Bedroom on a Large Corner Lot. Updates include: HVAC, Sliders with Built-in Blinds, Doors, Walk-in Shower, Sink, & Toilet. Roof & Skylights in 2010. Vinyl Siding, Insulation & Windows in 2009. Cathedral Ceilings, Large Master Bedroom, Stack Washer/Dryer. Courtyard & Shed.

Call Tony Matrona 410-641-1671

68 Anchor Way • Berlin • Mystic Harbor

$318,900

Welcome to Mystic Harbor Close to OC. Assateague Island & Shopping. Well Kept Fully Furnished 3 BR 2BA. Spacious Living & Dining Room to Entertain. Large Kitchen with Pantry & Ample Cabinets & Countertops. 3 Bedrooms All with Walk in Closets. Large Master Bedroom & Bath.

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Best Beats On The Beach Who’s Where When BUXY’S SALTY DOG & DRY DOCK 28 410-289-BUXY 28th Street & Coastal Highway Saturday, January 10: TBA CAPTAIN’S TABLE 410-289-7192 15th & Boardwalk In The Courtyard Marriott Fridays & Saturdays: Phil Perdue COINS PUB 410-289-3100 28th Street Plaza On Coastal Highway Friday, January 16: Soul Chase Saturday, January 17: Monkee Paw FAGER’S ISLAND 410-524-5500 60th Street In The Bay Friday, January 16: Deadeye Stare & DJ RobCee Saturday, January 17: The Boh Daddies & DJ Stinson GREENE TURTLE WEST 410-213-1500 Route 611, West OC Friday, January 9: Johnny Cardo Wednesdays: Bingo w/ Blake HARBORSIDE 410-213-1846

DJ MARY JANE Seacrets: Saturday, January 10

DJ BIGLER Harborside: Saturday, January 10

PHIL PERDUE Captain’s Table: Fridays & Saturdays

BEATS BY DEOGEE Pickles Pub: Fridays

DJ BILLY T Harborside: Fridays

DJ WAX Pickles Pub: Tuesdays

JOHNNY CARDO Greene Turtle West: Friday, January 9

CARLEY TWIGG Cantina Los Agave: Thursday, January 15

JANUARY 9, 2026

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OC Today-Dispatch

Who’s Where When

JOEY HARKUM BAND Pickles Pub: Saturday, January 10

ROGUE CITIZENS Harborside: Saturday, January 10

OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS Harborside: Sunday, January 11 Seacrets: Thursday, January 15

ELEMENT K DUO Seacrets: Saturday, January 10

THE BOH DADDIES Fager’s Island: Saturday, January 17

MONKEE PAW Coins Pub: Saturday, January 17

LEVEL UP Seacrets: Saturday, January 17

CECILIA’S FALL Harborside: Saturday, January 17

SUNSET VILLAGE • AFFORDABLE 2BR, 1.5 BA WEST OC TOWNHOMES

$289,900

$279,900

12626 SUNSET AVENUE UNIT 78

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1,200 SF end unit w/kitchen bay window breakfast nook, living room & ½ BA downstairs. Newer slider off living room to renovated tiled 3-season room. Upstairs primary BR, BR #2 w/full BA oversized shower. Newer vinyl replacement windows. HVAC system & hot water heater replaced 2020. Stack washer/dryer. Seasonal community pool. Professional lawn/landscape maintenance. Short walk to West OC Harbor & Marina & Sunset Grille, The Shark & Harborside restaurants

2-story 2 BR, 1.5 BA open floor plan w/large kitchen countertop, bar seating & dining table area. Bright sunlit living room. Patio storage closet. Downstairs ½ BA, storage closet & stack washer/dryer. 2 BRs upstairs w/full BA in-between. Seasonal community pool. Professional lawn/landscape maintenance.

Short walk/bike ride to West OC Harbor & locals’ favorite restaurants.

Lauren Bunting Broker Cell: 410.422.9899 lwbunting@comcast.net www.LaurenBunting.com

South Harbor Road, West End OC Friday, January 9: DJ Billy T Saturday, January 10: Rogue Citizens & DJ Bigler Sunday, January 11: Opposite Directions Thursdays: Dust N Bones PICKLES PUB 410-289-4891 8th Street & Philadelphia Avenue Fridays: Beats By DeoGee Saturday, January 10: Joey Harkum Band Mondays: Karaoke w/ Wood Tuesdays: Beats By Wax Thursdays: Beats By Connair SEACRETS 410-524-4900 49th Street & Coastal Highway Friday, January 9: Karaoke Competition, Faith Noel & DJ J-Spinz Saturday, January 10: Element K Duo & DJ Mary Jane Thursday, January 15: Opposite Directions

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JANUARY 9, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

START SMART DAY AT BUCKINGHAM ELEM

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BES

About 60 community members turned out Monday morning at Buckingham Elementary School to welcome back students as they returned to their classrooms. Schools have been closed for two weeks for the holidays, and the school invited fathers and male role models to provide a welcoming scene for the students and a high five or two. Above left, student Karson Chavis is greeted by volunteers including Berlin Electric Utility Director Tim Lawrence. Volunteers who showed up on Monday morning are pictured above right.

24 Hour Awake Staff All Private Rooms & Baths Three Home-Cooked Meals a Day! All Inclusive Pricing In-House Doctor Visits VA and MAC Subsidy Approved

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JANUARY 9, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

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JANUARY 9, 2026

COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS WHEELCHAIR PARADE The halls of Hartley Nursing and Rehab were filled with smiles, music, and festive spirit as the Activities Department hosted a heartwarming Holiday Wheelchair Parade during the holidays. In preparation for the season, staff and residents worked together to decorate wheelchairs with colorful garland, twinkling lights and ornaments, transforming everyday mobility into a joyful celebration.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

HOLIDAY FOOD DONATIONS

SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Berlin Lions Club proudly shows off the 12 food baskets that were donated to local families during the recent holidays. The club has continued this tradition for over 20 years now. The club will be soon announcing its annual sausage sale date in February.

TOY DRIVE COLLECTION Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club members Toys for Tots Chairman Dena Holloway and Club Secretary Jodi Seibenberg collected 58 toys at the Optimist Christmas Party at the Restaurant at Lighthouse Sound. Those toys were added to hundreds of toys that were already collected for the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves and distributed to Eastern Shore families in need.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

REPUBLICAN WOMEN OFFICERS On Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025, the Republican Women of Worcester County held their annual dinner and installation of new officers at the Lighthouse Restaurant. The new officers are Gwen Crisafulli, Recording Secretary; Mary Weezie Carey, Corresponding Secretary; Delores Matthews, Second Vice President; Jane Wolnik, Treasurer; Jennie Allen, President; Carol Frazier, First Vice President; and Linda Moran, Assistant Treasurer/membership.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

BOAT SHOW RAFFLE The Ocean City Berlin Optimist Club members President Christina Dolomount-Brown, Doug Fischer, Chris Thomas, and Kim Jones ride a Pontoon Boat donated by North Bay Marina, Inc in the OC Christmas Parade that will be raffled off at the end of the Annual O.C. Seaside Boat Show during President’s Day weekend February 13-15. All monies raised from the Boat Show go to scholarships and programs for the children of Worcester County! There will also be a chance to win a $10,000 raffle. Proceeds for that raffle will be used for scholarships for Stephen Decatur High School Seniors!

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

RANDY’S CREW STEPS UP The nonprofit Randy’s Crew recently provided funding so the third graders at Buckingham Elementary School could take a trip to the Baltimore Aquarium and "Shop with a Cop" through the Worcester County Child Advocacy Program. Since March of 2023, Randy's Crew has donated over $120,000 to the local charities, schools and animal organizations.

JANUARY 9, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

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JANUARY 9, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

Calendar Submit calendar items to: editor@octodaydispatch.com.

Submission deadline is 5 p.m. Monday, the week of publication. Local submissions have priority. Area event listings are subject to space availability.

Fri., Jan. 9

tile set. All adults are welcome. 410-5241818, worcesterlibrary.org

TODDLER TIME AT THE MUSEUM

BOOK DISCUSSION: ‘BUNKER HILL’ BY NATHANIEL PHILBRICK

Delmarva Discovery Museum, 2 Market St., Pocomoke City, 10-11 a.m. Early opening great for kids ages 0-5 years and their families. Cost is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, $5 for kids ages 4-17 years and free to those 3 year and younger. delmarvadiscoverycenter.org

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Pick up a copy of the book at the Ocean Pines branch circulation desk and join in for a lively discussion. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

BABY TIME

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS BINGO

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. A great opportunity for babies (0-2 years) and their caregivers to socialize, play, read and explore. Drop by and make some friends.

410-641-0650, worcesterlibrary.org

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

OC MAHJONG CLUB 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

Sat., Jan. 10 K-POP ART Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines

Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Create works of art with K-pop characters.

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

MUSCLES IN MOTION: EXPLORING THE HUMAN BODY Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 11 a.m. Kids learn how muscles work and how exercise helps keep our bodies strong through exciting STEM-based activities.

For ages 6-11 years. 410-641-0650, worcesterlibrary.org

FREE SOUP & SANDWICH FELLOWSHIP EVENT St. Paul United Methodist Church, 405 Flower St., Berlin, 11 a.m. All are welcome. Benefiting the St. Paul UM Men’s Ministry. 410-641-0270

BAD GIFT TRADING Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 1 p.m.

Trade your undesirable holiday gifts with other people. Please keep all gifts PG friendly. 410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org

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

Sun., Jan. 11 SEWING FOR A CAUSE 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

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

Mon., Jan. 12 BABY TIME Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m.

Songs, stories and giggles. For ages 0-2 years. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

STORY TIME: STUFFED ANIMALS 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

WRITING FOR WELLNESS Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:30 p.m.

Writing about stressful experiences like illness may boost health and psychological well-being. Group uses exercises to stimulate creative expression. 410-2084014, worcesterlibrary.org

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

Create a winter wonderland with a partner/group using the ingredients and materials provided. Best for ages 8 years and older. Registration required: 410208-4014. worcesterlibrary.org

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

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

Tues., Jan. 13 BABY TIME 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

STORY TIME @ THE DELMARVA DISCOVERY MUSEUM Delmarva Discovery Museum, 2 Market St., Pocomoke City, 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and crafts that feature one of the museum’s special animals. For ages 0-5 years. Registration required: 410-9570878. worcesterlibrary.org

STORY TIME AT THE MUSEUM Delmarva Discovery Museum, 2 Market St., Pocomoke City, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Learn all about bears and hibernation.

Due to the popularity of these events you must register your child at https://worcesterlibrary.libcal.com/eve nt/15633533?hs=a

Continued on Page 38

JANUARY 9, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

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JANUARY 9, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

CALENDAR Continued from Page 36 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

TEEN GAME NIGHT

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 4:30 p.m. Test your luck and your mettle against others in games like Sorry!, Hive and more. For ages 12-18 years. 410524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org

BOOK CLUB @ TIDES & VINE: ‘THE WATER DANCER’ BY TA-NEHISI COATES

Tides & Vine, 106 W. Green St., Snow Hill, 6 p.m. An evening of books and wine. Stop by the Snow Hill Library to pick up your book, then meet for a great discussion at Tides & Vine. Must be at least 21 years of age. 410-632-3495, worcesterlibrary.org

ATLANTIC COAST SPORTFISHING ASSOCIATION MEETING American Legion Synepuxent Post 166, 2308 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 7 p.m. Dinner and drinks available after 6:15 p.m. Celebrating the winners of the yearly tournament and announcing the “Angler of the Year” recipient. Guest speakers include Brian Reynalds and Dan Erb.

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.

BEACH HEROES-OC

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

more are welcome, 7-9:30 p.m. No partner required. Info: TangobytheBeach.com.

ZUMBA TONING TUESDAYS

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

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. 410-641-4882, www.htcanglican.org/activities.

Wed., Jan. 14 AARP MEETING

Ocean City 50plus Center, 104 41st St., 10 a.m. Social and refreshments begin at 9:30 a.m. The guest speaker will discuss tax tips and tax scams. Upcoming travel opportunities and more provided. New members welcome. Bob McCluskey, 410-250-0980

BOOK CLUB AT 50PLUS CENTER: ‘THE ONLY WOMAN IN THE ROOM’ BY MARIE BENEFICT

Snow Hill 50plus Center, 4767 Snow Hill Road, 11 a.m. Stop by the Snow Hill Library or the 50plus Center to pick up your book, then meet for a great discussion. 410-632-3495, worcesterlibrary.org

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. 410-6410650

PASTA MAKING WORKSHOP

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m.

Demonstration on how to make a traditional eggless dough and shape pre-prepared dough into beautiful southern-style pasta using simple tools.

Take home some pasta. Registration required: 410-641-0650.

PAJAMA STORY TIME 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. 410289-4725

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 6:30 p.m.

Wear your pajamas and bring your favorite stuffie to snuggle while you enjoy stories and songs to wind down to bedtime. For ages 0-5 years. 410-641-0650, worcesterlibrary.org

OC KNITTING CLUB

KIWANIS CLUB MEETING

TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY

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

ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE

Tuesdays - Experienced dancers and others interested in watching or learning

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.

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. 15

be used to mingle and discuss your read.

410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org

COLONIAL SILHOUETTE CRAFT

Maryland’s Coast - Worcester County Tourism & Economic Development, 107 W. Green St., Snow Hill, 4:30 p.m. Join in for a colonial silhouette craft best for teens and adults. 410-632-3495, worcesterlibrary.org

DREAMFEST - THE POINTER SISTERS

Ocean City Performing Arts Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, 7 p.m. The sisters blended pop, R&B, rock and country with unmistakable style. Doors open 6 p.m. Tickets: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/465884 99/the-pointer-sisters-ocean-city-ocperforming-arts-center.

LIFE LINE SCREENING EVENT

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway. Stroke and cardiovascular disease risk screenings. Special pricing of $129. For those ages 40+ years.

Appointments: call 800-324-9458, visit LLSA.SOCIAL/HABC, or text the word “circle” to 216-279-1607.

LITTLE EXPLORERS: BEARS

Delmarva Discovery Museum, 2 Market St., Pocomoke City, 10 a.m.-noon. Make your own Sleeping Bear Cave and learn all about bears in the world. Two sessions at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. Register: https://www.delmarvadiscoverycenter.o rg/delmarvadiscoveryacademy/littleexplorers.

LEGO MASTERS CHALLENGE

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

Join in for a Lego challenge event. All materials provided. For ages 6-11 years.

410-208-4014, 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

ONGOING EVENTS HISTORY-TO-GO

Snow Hill library, 307 N. Washington St., throughout January. Pick up a History-to-Go kit and learn about ciphers and codes used throughout history. Supplies provided to make your own cipher disk. Pick up between December and February. 410-632-3495

THE WINTER QUILL POETRY CONTEST STORY TIME ‘DEAR ZOO’

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Stories, song and rhymes. For ages 2-5 years. 410-632-3495, worcesterlibrary.org

REPUBLICAN WOMEN OF WORCESTER COUNTY GENERAL LUNCHEON MEETING

This year’s theme is frozen moments, encouraging young writers to capture a single memory, feeling or image in an original poem. Entries are due by Feb. 2 and the contest is open to ages 6-11 and 12-18 years. Winners will be announced on Feb. 9. All participants are invited to celebrate at a Family Poetry Read-alound on Feb. 21. 443-235-5597

Worcester Technical High School, 6270 Worcester Highway, Newark, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Maria Sofia, Government affairs, CATO Institute and First VP of MFRW will discuss “How to use AI effectively and safely.” gopwomenofwc@gmail.com.

Weekly virtual drawings on Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. Winner receives 60 percent of jackpot. www.opvfd.com/queen-ofhearts. Sponsored by the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department.

STORY TIME: ‘THE SNOW THIEF’

OCEAN CITY-BERLIN ROTARY CLUB

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

HERBAL HEALTH

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 2 p.m. Learn about the therapeutic and medicinal properties of herbs. Attendees will receive a specially curated tea to enjoy at home. Registration required: 410-9570878. worcesterlibrary.org

SILENT BOOK CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 3-4 p.m. Bring your current read or borrow one. The first 50 minutes will be spent silently reading, the last 10 minutes can

QUEEN OF HEARTS

Meets the first and third Wednesday of each month at Don’s Seafood & Chop House at the South Gate of Ocean Pines, 6 p.m. ocberlinrotary@gmail.com

Crossword answers from page 54

JANUARY 9, 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

RENTALS

RENTALS

COMMERCIAL

DONATIONS

WANT TO BUY

STAFF ENGINEER Full-time, in-person civil engineering role for entry to mid-level professionals with a BSCE. Company specializes in site design projects. $24 to $34/hr.

Call 410-641-0126 for information J.W. Salm Engineering, Inc.

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

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

COMMERCIAL SPACE Rt. 611, Stephen Decatur Business Center.

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

410-430-7675

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.

I BUY ALBUMS! 410-430-5349

Seeking Year-Round Rentals!

Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555.

Industrial Space Yard and Storage Shed.

Approx. 10x25+/Route 90/Bishopville.

Call 443-497-4200

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

Apply online at: www.delmarvadd.com

Utililites Included CONTACT US AT burgundyinn@gmail.com 410-289-8581

Classifieds 410-723-6397

Yearly & Seasonal Rentals We Welcome Pets 7700 Coastal Hwy 410-524-7700 www.holidayoc.com

COMMERCIAL COMMERCIAL

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

Run your business card in our

Beginning again!

We walk together from here,

Classifieds 410-723-6397

One for the other!

SERVICES

LONG TERM WINTER RENTAL

NOW HIRING!!

Production Crew

MISC./OTHER

Commercial Space for Lease ONLY 1 UNIT LEFT! 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.

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

Call 443-497-4200

Classifieds 410-723-6397

www.baysideoc.com www.octodaydispatch.com ~~~~~ Classifieds Deadline is Monday, 5 p.m.

Classifieds appear

BUDGET MOVERS

in OC Today-Dispatch

443-664-5797

& Bayside Gazette

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www.facebook.com/OCBudgetMovers

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PAGE 40

JANUARY 9, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

DIRECTORY BLINDS / SHADES

CARPET CLEANING

CONSTRUCTION

DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION Design • Build • Remodel

BATH REMODELING SPECIAL

10% OFF

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JANUARY 9, 2026

PAGE 41

OC Today-Dispatch

DIRECTORY MOVING SERVICES

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PAGE 42 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 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

OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices 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 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

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 _________________________________

OCD-12/25/3t _________________________________

JAMES E. CLUBB, JR., ESQ. 108 N. 8TH.STREET OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842

Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland

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 et al.

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

PROPOSAL SOLICITATION

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

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,

JANUARY 9, 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: Timeshare Price 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 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

JANUARY 9, 2026 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 ob-

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OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices tained 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 _________________________________ RAYMOND D. COATES JR, ESQ COATES,COATES, & COATES, P.A. 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 _________________________________ 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 _________________________________ 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 _________________________________ 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 SPRING-

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OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices

FIELD, 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 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 cred-

itor 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 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 submis-

JANUARY 9, 2026 sions 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.

OCD-1/1/5t _________________________________

Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland

PROPOSAL SOLICITATION 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 fur-

JANUARY 9, 2026 ther 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.

OCD-1/1/5t _________________________________

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS 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.

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

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OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices 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 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 _________________________________ 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 ANTONIO 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 ANTONIO 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 be-

fore 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 ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-1/8/3t _________________________________ REENA J. PATEL ESQ. LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MT. HERMAN ROAD STE. B SALISBURY, MD 21804

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate 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 _________________________________ RACHEL B. HARRIS ESQ. P.O. BOX 62 POCOMOKE CITY, MD 218510062 SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20953 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JOHN D. PECCIA Notice is given that Dorothy B. Peccia, 110 8th St., Pocomoke City, MD 21851-1129, was on December 31, 2025 appointed personal representative of the small estate of John D. Peccia who died on November 24, 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 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.

Dorothy B. Peccia Personal Representative True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County

PAGE 46

OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices

Terri Westcott 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 8, 2026 OCD-1/8/1t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20954 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF KAREN EVANS Notice is given that Aimee Reese, 27035 Gillette Dr., Crisfield, MD 21817-2609, was on December 30, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Karen Evans who died on November 22, 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 30th 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 30th 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.

Aimee Reese 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 8, 2026 OCD-1/8/3t _________________________________

REBID SOLICITATION Crushed Aggregate Worcester County is seeking Bids from qualified vendors to contract for the Purchase of Crushed Aggregate in conformity with the requirements contained herein Bid Documents.

Bid Documents for the above referenced project may be obtained from the Worcester County Commissioner’s Office by either e-mailing the Procurement Officer at purchasing@worcestermd.gov or by calling 410-632-1194 during normal business hours, or via the County’s Bids page on the County’s website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their bids. Worcester County is not responsible for the

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JANUARY 9, 2026 content of any Bid Document received through any third party bid service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Bid Documents.

The last day for questions will be 12:00 pm, Monday, January 26, 2026.

Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than Monday, February 2, 2026, at 2:30 pm and will be opened and read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863.

Late Bid Documents will not be accepted.

Envelopes shall be marked " Rebid Solicitation – Crushed Aggregate” in the lower left-hand corner.

Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for award of the solicitation.

OCD-1/8/1t _________________________________

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Replacement of Tanhouse Creek Bridge – Bayside Road Worcester County is seeking Proposals from qualified vendors to design, permit, and construct a full replacement-in-kind of the existing Tanhouse Creek Bridge, in conformity with the requirements contained herein the Proposal Documents.

Proposal Documents for the above referenced project may be obtained from the Worcester County Commissioner’s Office by either e-mailing the Procurement Officer at purchasing@worcestermd.gov or by calling 410-632-1194 during regular business hours, or via the County’s Proposals page on the County’s website.

Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their Proposals. Worcester County is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any third-party Proposal service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.

A Pre-Proposal meeting will be held on Monday, January 12, 2026, at 10:00 am. The meeting will be held at 6113 Timons Road, Snow Hill, MD 21863, in the Public Works conference room. The last day for questions will be 12:00 pm, Thursday, January 29, 2026.

Sealed Proposal Documents are due no later than Thursday, February 5, 2026, at 2:30 pm and will be opened and read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863.

Late Proposal Documents will not be accepted.

Envelopes shall be marked, "Request for Proposals – Replacement of Tanhouse Creek Bridge – Bayside Road” in the lower left-hand corner.

Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for the award of solicitation.

OCD-1/8/1t _________________________________

JANUARY 9, 2026

PAGE 47

OC Today-Dispatch

Offshore wind panel set for Jan. 12 (The following is a press release from Worcester County Government.)

(Jan. 9, 2026) The public is invited to join a panel of nationally-recognized, subject-matter experts to analyze how U.S. Wind’s proposal to construct a wind farm beginning roughly 10.7 miles off the coast of Ocean City could devastate coastal economies, marine ecosystems, public safety, and energy costs.

This public forum will take place Monday, January 12, at 5:30 p.m. at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center on 40th Street in Ocean City. The event is free and open to all.

Panelists will examine the proposed U.S. Wind project to install 114 turbines towering 938 feet above the ocean’s surface, as well as similar MidAtlantic projects currently progressing through federal permitting, power purchase agreement approvals, interconnection planning, and construction-phase preparations. Specifically, they will examine both the individual and cumulative negative impacts to Maryland involving the following issues: Commercial & Recreational Fishing – displacement of fishing grounds, navigational constraints, gear conflicts, and long-term effects on Worcester County’s historic commer-

cial and recreational fishing industries Economic Cost to Ratepayers – analysis of offshore wind power purchase agreements and transmission costs on electricity rates Environmental Impacts – risks to marine mammals, migratory birds, and fish populations during construction and operations Marine Habitat and Water Quality – seabed disturbance, sediment resuspension, and long-term ecosystem considerations Tourism-Based Economy – visual, access, and perception impacts on Ocean City and Maryland’s Coast, where tourism is a cornerstone of regional employment and tax revenue, in light of U.S. Wind’s project rating of Visibility Level 5 – attract strong attention, create a notable contrast against the open ocean horizon, and occupy a significant portion of the horizon National Security & Maritime Safety Given Proximity to Wallops Flight Facility and Greater Washington, D.C. Region – electromagnetic reflectivity impacts from offshore turbines on radar performance and electromagnetic systems, military training and restricted airspace, commercial and recreational vessel traffic, and coordination of maritime emergency responses

Panelists will also outline recent federal, state, and judicial actions affecting offshore wind projects, including schedule delays, cost escalations, and reassessments across the Mid-Atlantic.

“Maryland is at a decision point,” Worcester County Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young said. “The U.S. Wind project is not just some abstract proposal. Under the Biden administration, the project was fast-tracked, bypassing the rigorous scrutiny typically required throughout the permit review process for such a massive undertaking.”

The purpose of the panel is to provide clarity and present data and expert perspectives involving the ramifications of offshore wind to Worcester County and Sussex County residents and visitors, as well as all Marylanders. This event is being hosted by Stop Offshore Wind, in coordination with the Town of Ocean City and Worcester County Government.

All members of the public, including but not limited to residents, business owners, fishermen, tourism professionals, policymakers, and stakeholders, are invited to attend in person or to view the panel live online at https://stopoffshorewind.com/.

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PAGE 48

JANUARY 9, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

SURF REPORT

The Adventures

I

by Steve Green t’s funny how Christmas changes over the years, especially when you measure it by the ages of your children. My sons are now 17 and 15, and while the calendar still flips to Dec. 25 just as it always has, the experience feels undeniably different.

It’s easy — and accurate — to say that Christmas isn’t quite as magical as it once was. Christmas morning joy with two teens pales in comparison to those early years when they were toddlers and in elementary school, when the house buzzed with anticipation long before sunrise. Back then, Santa Claus was very real. The surprises were bigger, the reactions louder, and the excitement contagious.

Those mornings are frozen in time as lifetime memories, ones I’ll always cherish.

These days, Christmas is far more practical. We ask the boys if there’s anything special they want beyond the necessities—mostly clothes they’ve outgrown yet again. Their requests are usually reasonable, though Beckett did make us laugh this year when he suggested that a brand-new car would be nice. It was worth a shot, I suppose.

For Beckett, that ask was a sign of the times. Clothes and cash are king now. One recent mishap at work sealed part of his list: an AirPod fell into water and was ruined, earning a late addition to the Christmas lineup.

It’s funny how the gifts shift from toys and imagination to technology and responsibility, but that’s part of growing up.

Carson, on the other hand, never asks for anything. This year was no different—except that his beloved iPad stopped working in November, making the replacement an obvious gift. Carson has always been unique in his reactions to gifts, but this year stood out.

When he saw the iPad, he smiled, acknowledged it, and then left it sitting in the box. He didn’t rush to open it. He didn’t grab it and disappear into an-

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of Fatherhood other room. It was almost as if he was embarrassed.

Being nonverbal, Carson communicates mostly through body language, and usually we can read him easily.

This time, though, his reaction gave us pause. It felt as though he was overwhelmed, or perhaps felt the gift was too much—something he didn’t deserve. Beckett noticed it too and asked what was wrong. Carson simply shrugged, as if nothing were amiss.

Eventually, Carson did warm to the gift and began using it, but that initial reaction lingered with me. We’ve seen moments like this before with particularly nice gifts, moments shaped by his disability, but this year felt different.

Maybe it was just one of those unexpected moments parenting brings, the ones that don’t come with explanations.

If Christmas morning has evolved into something quieter and less dramatic, our Christmas Day tradition has done the opposite. For the past 14 years or so, our afternoon has been anchored by a friendly game of kickball.

It started simply enough when a neighbor organized a casual game on Christmas Day afternoon. Aside from the pandemic pause, it’s been a constant ever since. Over the years, a group of neighbors, friends, and sometimes complete strangers have gathered to burn off some holiday energy together. It’s become one of those traditions that sneaks up on you and suddenly feels essential.

My sons have grown up with this game as part of their Christmas Day. Over time, more family members have joined in, making it even more meaningful. By midday on Christmas, I’m always ready to get out of the house, breathe fresh air, and move around a bit. There’s something perfect about gathering with a mix of familiar faces and newcomers to play a game that requires nothing more than a rubber ball and a sense of humor.

In the early days, especially on

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colder afternoons, maybe 20 people showed up. Now, the crowd has grown to more than 80. There are nearly as many spectators as players, and that alone makes it special. There are as many kids now as adults, changing the atmosphere but it’s about community.

For my kids, I know this tradition has created lifelong memories, and that matters to me more than anything.

As a father, creating memories is one of the greatest joys of parenting. Moments they’ll remember long after the gifts are forgotten. Nothing makes me happier than when Beckett brings up a shared memory or shows me something on his phone that reminds him of a moment from years past.

This year’s kickball game had one of those moments. Carson was especially focused on kicking. In recent years, he would kick the ball and then run the bases alongside his mom or me. This time, as we waited for his turn, he was locked in. Kicking was all he cared about. The fielding, not so much.

What stood out most was the kindness of the people we play with every year. Those in the field seemed to let Carson’s short pop-ups drop just enough for him to reach base or slow the roll on the pitch to give him a chance.

The annual kickball game is a chance to gather outdoors on a beautiful day, but it’s also a reminder of the empathy and goodness within our community. I don’t take that for granted. I know kindness can’t be assumed everywhere, but I take immense pride and comfort in knowing my children are growing up in a place where understanding and inclusion come naturally. That, more than anything, feels like the true gift of Christmas.

(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.)

Winter surfing: an experience worth the added effort

By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer (Jan. 9, 2026) This is only my opinion, of course, but I think that winter surfing, or cold water and cold air surfing, could be placed in a category all its own.

Ponder the notion, even for just a short period of time. What knucklehead wants to immerse themselves in 40-degree water coupled with 35-degree air temperatures? Those with good wetsuit gear, a good board, and a bit of knowledge, that’s who.

For those that want to keep their surf chops on the upswing and don’t have the means or time to head to a milder climate for the winter, what other choice is there? Consistency is important. Common sense will tell you that you’ve got to keep doing it just so you can keep doing it!

Typically, one tends to surf less in the winter if they surf at all. The days are shorter, and unless there’s nothing else to do, most have responsibilities such as work, and/or school and family. To add to all of this the “playing field,” namely good surfable waves, are not always available although the winter seems to offer a better chance of swell in the water.

Don’t forget the lack of crowds and traffic. Things are basically wide open, with no restrictions all along the coast. Park with your windshield facing the sun, find a place to change into or out of your wetsuit out of the wind, and bring a few good towels and maybe a jug or two of warm water and go for it.

Winter surfing may be counter intuitive but the experience is undoubtedly worth the effort.

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

JANUARY 9, 2026

PAGE 49

OC Today-Dispatch

‘Slow zone’ in effect off Ocean City coastline

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Jan. 9, 2026) A fourth round of restrictions have been placed on boaters following sightings of right whales off Maryland’s coast.

On Monday, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Fisheries reported additional sightings of the endangered species off the coast of Ocean City. In an effort to protect right whales, the agency is asking boaters to reduce their speed or avoid the area through Jan. 18.

“Mariners are requested to avoid or transit at 10 knots or less inside the area where right whales have been detected to reduce the risk of vessel strikes,” a statement from the agency reads.

In late October, DNR Fisheries enacted a slow zone after a right whale was detected off the coast. That restriction continued through Nov. 20.

In December, another sighting prompted the agency to enact a second slow zone restriction. Later that month, the restriction was extended after an aerial survey team reported additional sightings.

Endangered North Atlantic right whales are at heightened risk for vessel strikes because they spend much of their time at or close to the water’s surface, according to NOAA Fisheries. As such, vessel strikes are a primary threat to the species.

In addition, right whales can be difficult to spot from a boat because of their dark color and lack of a dorsal fin. Environmental conditions like bad weather, murky water, and low light can affect boaters’ ability to see these whales.

To rebuild the North Atlantic right whale population, NOAA Fisheries is enacting management measures to help reduce the risk of vessel strikes.

That includes speed restrictions on marine vessels in certain areas where right whales are found.

The current slow zone applies to all vessels underway off the coast of Ocean City. However, NOAA Fisheries also maintains Seasonal Management Areas (SMA), the closest of which being located at the entrance of the Chesapeake Bay and to the east of Sussex County, Delaware. In those areas, vessels 65 feet or longer must travel 10 knots or less at certain times of the year.

SUBMITTED IMAGE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

A slow zone, pictured in the map above, is now in effect off the coast of Ocean City after another round of right whale sightings.

OC council renews line of credit with bank

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Jan. 9, 2026) Ocean City officials this week voted to renew a $2.5 million revolving line of credit with the Bank of Ocean City.

On Monday, the Ocean City Council voted 6-0, with Councilman John Gehrig absent, to renew a revolving line of credit it has with the local bank.

The financial agreement was renewed for three years at a 5.5% interest rate.

“It’s fairly simple …,” Finance Director Chuck Bireley told city officials this week. “The staff recommendation is to renew the line of credit for the additional three years.”

In 2019, the city’s financial advisor, Wye River, recommended the city enter into an unsecured $2.5 mil-

lion revolving line of credit with Bank of Ocean City. With that term now expiring, the city is eligible for renewal.

According to the city, the bank approved the renewal, which would give the city an additional three years at a 5.5% rate. Unlike a traditional bank loan, a line of credit involves lower financing costs.

“The line of credit can be used to finance asset acquisitions with coun-

cil's approval and a resolution can be adopted to reimburse the Town in the next bond issuance to pay off the line of credit,” a memo in the council’s agenda packet reads.

With no further discussion, the council agreed to renew the line of credit at a three-year term. As part of that agreement, the city will be expected to pay a $500 annual renewal fee.

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B Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty

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vanishing

OCEAN CITY

JANUARY 9, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

With Bunk Mann

Things I Like...

By Steve Green A random daffodil this time of year Behaved parents at youth sports events Trying out a new coaster at Busch Gardens No-wait checkout lines Giggles with my teenagers A smooth trip through the Hampton Roads tunnel Displays of resilience

Ocean City was a seasonal town (Memorial Day to Labor Day) and didn’t get a full-time library until the mid-1960s. The Ocean City branch of the Worcester County Library opened in July 1966 on the corner of 14th Street and Philadelphia Avenue. It served the community for over 40 years but had outgrown its cramped space by the time the building was demolished in April 2008.

A new “state of the art” library opened the same year at 100th Street and Coastal Highway with the ability to serve Ocean City’s residents and visitors far into the future.

To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanPhoto by Bunk Mann ishingoc.com.

Simple print ads with white space Young families attending church Leftovers just as good the second time A towel’s smell after a beach day

JANUARY 9, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

REAL ESTATE REPORT

Bonus depreciation speeds up tax savings for investors

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer (Jan. 9, 2026) According to a recent article released by the National Association of REALTORS (NAR), one of the most effective ways to reduce taxable income is by accelerating deductions through bonus depreciation. (The detailed information below from the NAR article was provided

by Robert D. Matt, CPA, a principal with Kaufman Rossin, CPA + Advisors, specializing in tax consulting, planning and compliance.)

Bonus depreciation allows a taxpayer to deduct a large percentage of the cost of certain assets in the year they are placed into service rather than spreading that depreciation over several years. Governed by Section 168(k) of the Internal Revenue Code, it currently applies to new or used assets (as long as they’re new to the taxpayer) with a useful life of 20 years or less.

For real estate investors, bonus depreciation generally applies to items identified as personal property and land improvements, such as: • Parking, roadway, sidewalk and curb paving • Stormwater management systems • Irrigation systems • Fences, decks and retaining walls • Certain landscaping components and recreational amenities • Furniture, fixtures, flooring and window treatments • Signs • A/V and communication systems, and some components of electrical systems • Appliances, countertops and cabinets The 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) expanded bonus depreciation

Stay informed with our digital newsletter Interested in getting more information more quickly than our weekly OC TodayDispatch delivers? Our five-days-a-week digital newsletter might be just what you need.

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and allowed it to apply to acquired used property. For properties placed in service from Jan. 1, 2025, to Jan. 19, 2025, and those under contract or being built before Jan. 19, 2025, but placed in service after Jan. 19, 2025, a taxpayer could deduct 40% of the value of an eligible asset. However, under the new One Big Beautiful Bill Act, 100% depreciation is restored for qualifying property placed into service after Jan. 19, 2025, and before Jan. 1, 2031. To qualify, construction must begin between Jan. 20, 2025, and Dec. 31, 2029.

Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record for Keller Williams Realty Delmarva in Ocean City, Maryland.

PAGE 51

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 52

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, eggrolls 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. Dinein, 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, 410289-4891, 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 year-round 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, 410723-4665, 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 well-made 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, 443664-5693, 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.

JANUARY 9, 2026

■ SEACRETS 49th Street, Ocean City 410-524-4900, www.seacrets.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar 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, ItalianAmerican 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 ■ 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 Closed - Reopens Feb. 11 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 Closed - Reopens March 11 Rte. 54, Fenwick Island, Del., 302-4362305, 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 ‘40s-style 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, 410-2131500 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 9, 2026

PAGE 53

OC Today-Dispatch

Berlin Chamber to install officers

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Jan. 8, 2026) The Berlin Chamber of Commerce will welcome the public to an evening of recognition and leadership transitions next week during its annual installation dinner and business and volunteer awards ceremony.

The event will take place on Thursday, Jan. 15, at the Berlin Fire Company Banquet Hall, located at 214 North Main Street. A social hour will begin at 6 p.m., followed by dinner at 7 p.m. and the awards program immediately afterward.

According to chamber officials, the evening will feature the installation of its 2026 officers, a report highlighting the organization’s accomplishments in 2025, and the presentation of multiple business and volunteer awards, including the 2025 Chamber Partner Award, Past President Award, Best New Business of the Year Award, the Volunteer of the Year Award, and the Bright Idea Award.

On the leadership transition front, President Garrett Neville will be named the outgoing president, and incoming president David Fitzgerald will officially assume the role of sitting president. Neville added that Crystal Collins will be introduced as the incoming president for 2026.

“Our president terms act in three years,” Neville said. “ The first year you’re the incoming president, where you learn the ins and outs from the sitting president, and then you have your term as the sitting president, and then the outgoing president is there for continuity of how things work and still sits on the board as well and votes and that sort of stuff.”

The event will also feature the presentation of the 2025 Citizen of the Year award, or the Berlin Award, to Charles Townsend.

The Berlin Award selectee is chosen by a committee made up of past winners and has been given out each year since 1964. The person nominated is someone who gives their time for free for the betterment of the town.

Melissa Reid, Taylor House president and last year’s Berlin Award recipient, said Townsend was chosen because he “exemplifies what we all want our community members to do. Use your gifts for the good of the community.”

Townsend, Reid noted, has devoted 57 years to volunteer service to the Berlin Fire Company, which equates to about 10,000 hours of firefighting calls.

“He is one of the people when that fire alarm goes off, gets up at whatever time, like 3 a.m., and would get to the

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Fifty-five year member of the Berlin Fire Company Charlie Townsend will be named the Berlin Award winner for this year. Townsend is pictured on the 1924 Mack with Bryan Lecompte during the Farmers Market in 2024.

fire department because he knew there was a reason for that fire alarm and somebody needed help,” the Taylor House president added. “He is what we all aspire to be in Berlin. A committed person who gives hours and hours of time for free to make sure Berlin is a place we all want to work and live.”

This is the first year that the Berlin Award honoree is announced prior to the Chamber of Commerce event.

Reid said that the committee wanted to get the word out early to encourage residents to attend the dinner and celebrate Townsend.

Furthermore, the evening will See BERLIN Page 54

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BZA rules on motel nonconformity

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Jan. 9, 2026) Going against the zoning administrator’s finding, a resort appeals board last month agreed some nonconformity exists at the site of a decades-old motel.

On Dec. 18, the Ocean City Board of Zoning Appeals ruled in favor of applicant Kozmas Inc., the owner of the Sea Cove Motel, by determining that the property has some nonconformity for both parking and density.

The 4-0 vote followed a nearly four-hour meeting, during which both city staff and the applicant’s representatives went head-to-head over the zoning administrator’s finding – that no nonconformity existed on the lot.

With more than 180 pages of documentation in hand, Zoning Administrator Sabrina Hecht told board members last month that an evaluation of the Sea Cove Motel property, located

at Baltimore Avenue and 27th Street, found that no nonconformity existed, as the property had 15 units at the three-story motel and four allowable units at the two-story house next door.

For years, however, the two-story house has operated with 13 units. She claimed that conversion happened in the 1990s, when exterior stairs were added to the building.

“The allowable number of units is 19,” Hecht told board members. “The zoning administrator concluded that the wooden, two-story structure on the property contains 13 rooms that were converted from four apartments without permits. Thus, the conversion was not legally permitted.”

For his part, Peter Buas, the applicant’s attorney, argued the two-story structure has legally operated with 13 rooms, likely even before the city’s density regulations were enacted in 1970.

Providing testimony from a local con-

tractor, a long-time neighbor and the former zoning administrator for Ocean City, he made his case for why his client should be provided a nine-unit nonconformity, which can continue to be used, even if the property is redeveloped.

“The reality is the town has no idea what was inside the building,” he said.

“Our testimony suggests we have a layout, and it was always 13 rooms.”

City staff also argued there was no parking nonconformity, as the hotel had the necessary number of both onand off-site spaces for a 19-unit property. However, the applicant’s attorney argued the property lacked 13 spaces, as there is no parking for the 13-unit structure.

Ultimately, the appeals board granted the applicant a nine-unit nonconformity for density, and a 13-space nonconformity for parking. Board member Emily Nock argued there was “more evidence in the applicant’s favor.”

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PAGE 54

OC Today-Dispatch

JANUARY 9, 2026

Berlin Award to honor Townsend Continued from Page 53 highlight the chamber’s achievements in 2025, which include the introduction of several new community events. Neville said attendance was strong across the board and emphasized the chamber’s continued focus on showcasing local businesses.

“We did great in 2025,” he said.

“We introduced some new events, and we had great turnouts for the events.

We will continue to boost the community within Berlin and showcase all sorts of different music and food.”

Among the new events launched last year were the Chili Pepper Festival and

Hot Summer Swing, hosted in celebration of Taylor Bank’s 135th anniversary.

The Chili Pepper Festival was held on Aug. 23 and featured chili and chili pepper competitions, music, and vendors.

Chamber leaders confirmed that the spice-filled festivity will return in 2026.

Fitzgerald said that dinner for the installation event will be catered by Street Kitchen, with hors d’oeuvres provided

by The Blacksmith and Forgotten 50, and desserts by Roadie Joe’s. A limited open bar will be offered, sponsored by Forgotten 50 and Berlin Beer Company.

Tickets can be purchased online on the Berlin chamber’s website.

CROSSWORD

Answers on page 38

JANUARY 9, 2026

HOROSCOPE ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, look for ways to boost your income this week. Be open to dealing with people who may otherwise not come on your radar. Some extra earnings will be useful.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, you may be happy to socialize this week, especially with new people who are friendly and congenial. Enjoy some time out on the town and the chance to meet new people.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Right now you are anxious to work and be productive, Gemini. However, obstacles seem to get in your way left and right. You might need to devise a plan to overcome the challenges.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Your involvement in sports, groups and clubs will be a positive experience for you this week, Cancer. Not only will you enjoy the interaction, you will feel a sense of optimism.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, there’s no better time to identify financial commitments and make some changes to how you move your money than right now. The doors of financial institutions will open for you.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, you might make an excellent impression on others today, especially a boss that has had their eyes on you for some time. Fear not; you are only projecting good things.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 This is the perfect time to travel or try a new activity, Libra. Go someplace you have never been before. That may involve exploring your own neighborhood or city.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Enjoy the company of others this week, Scorpio. People will be warm, friendly, inclusive, and generally happy to share ideas and experiences with you.

PAGE 55

OC Today-Dispatch

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Easy Thai beef rice paper rolls

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer (Jan. 9, 2026) Are you ready for the playoffs?

These notorious words of profound wisdom capture the hearts of fanatic football fans everywhere.

Watching the game at your neighborhood bar is always an option, but statistics suggest more and more people are watching the big games at home with family and friends.

The art of entertaining takes on new meaning. In a split second, joy and anger can rise beyond control. Shaking your booty and jumping for high fives can be reminiscent of one’s youth while punching walls, pulling out what’s left of one’s hair, and storming out of the room are diagnosed as “normal behavior” in such volatile times. This is why the bar set up and menu needs to be strategically positioned; thinking in terms of offense sets the tone for success.

Adult beverages and football go hand in hand. A few tips make life easier on the host and at the same time conveys a feeling of “help yourself.” One cooler filled with assorted beers and another cooler containing water and sodas makes life easy for all. Stay away from glass; aluminum and plastic are lighter and safer.

Boxed wines are perfectly acceptable and again your guests can make themselves at home. If you are a traditionalist and insist on glass bottles and glass stemware, consider larger bottles of wine and stemless wine glasses.

A cook cannot regulate the outcome of a game, but he or she can control the menu. Excitement fills the air, and food must be of “equal footing” if dishes are to stand out. Fried or unfried rice paper spring rolls can rock your football festiv-

ities. The Asian delight is delicious and finger friendly. You really don’t need a recipe, simply roll with your favorite veggies and protein.

Time and space do not allow us to discuss both, so we will concentrate on rice paper rolls that are not fried for the simple fact that most of us are not as familiar with them. An important element of a great unfried spring roll is having a crunch or firm structure in the center.

The rice paper is thin and pliable, so the crunch must be present in the filling or it will not be considered a winner.

Thin strips of raw spring onions, carrots, sprouts, cabbage, cucumbers, peppers, and a medley of fresh herbs are delicious, crisp veggies that will compliment your protein of choice.

In addition, the rice paper is sheer so it is important to consider the beautification of the roll itself. Color and placement of the veggies and meat is key as your eyes focus on the roll itself. Remember, every little detail stands out.

Rice paper wrappers are available in various sizes and thickness. The key is to dip them in water long enough to slightly soften it. Rice paper is delicate and only needs a quick dip. If you soak the rice paper too long, it will break down making it very difficult to roll. No worries, most packages have very specific instructions on the package itself.

Progression can only be achieved by stretching one’s comfort zone. Thai beef rice paper rolls with a sweet, spicy dipping sauce will certainly win over your guests and add to the overall merriment.

Dipping Sauce 1 cup Thai Sweet Chili Sauce 1/3 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) 1 teaspoon finely chopped cilantro 1. In a small bowl, combine ingredients.

Set aside.

Thai Beef Rice Paper Rolls 1-pound ground beef

2 tablespoons olive oil 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 tablespoons soy sauce 1 ½ tablespoons fish sauce 1 ½ tablespoons oyster sauce 1 teaspoon sugar 1 cup fresh basil and cilantro leaves 1 small cucumber, carrot julienned 2 spring onions julienned 1 red bell pepper julienned 8 to 10 rice paper wrappers toasted white and black sesame seeds as a garnish fresh cilantro as a garnish 1. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar.

2. In a medium saute pan, cook the meat with sauce mixture. Make sure the sauce gets incorporated into the meat.

Cook until most of the pink is gone. Remove meat mixture and place on a plate to cool down. The meat must be cooled before you place it on the rice paper wrapper.

3. Chop the vegetables to the desired shape.

4. Following directions on package, soak rice paper wonton and blot dry with paper towel.

5. Place some fresh herbs on the rice wrapper, add meat filling, then strips of veggies towards the bottom of the wrapper. Fold wrapper over meat and roll and tuck at the same time. When finished, cut the ends where the wrapper comes together.

6. Cut the wraps in the center at an angle, serve with dipping sauce, and garnish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro.

Secret Ingredient – Serenity Serenity is not freedom from the storm, but peace amid the storm.

Anonymous

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Work-related travel may be on the itinerary this week, Sagittarius. You also might find yourself more involved with foreign affairs or people from other cultures.

AND

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Capricorn, accept invitations to socialize with others this week. This is a great opportunity to have fun. It’s a good time to enjoy movies, the arts or the entertainment world in general.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Think about inviting someone over for coffee or pizza. You might be motivated to have an impromptu social gathering, Aquarius. Others will be happy to take you up on the offer.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Convincing others to embrace your way of thinking may require a little more effort than you are able to put forth right now, Pisces. Be patient and things will change for the better.

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Jan. 9, 2026

Page 56

Residency issues difficult to decide Is he is or is he ain’t? That would be the question posed in the vernacular of the oft-recorded 1943 song in which the singer queries a woman about her status as his girlfriend.

Maybe she is and maybe she isn’t.

That line of questioning is appropriate in the case of City Councilman Tony DeLuca, who maybe is and maybe isn’t a legal resident of Ocean City. At the moment, it depends on whom you ask. His accuser, Leslie Smith, claims he is or was at the time of his 2024 election a resident of Annapolis.

DeLuca swears his official domicile is here.

Smith, of course, has an axe to grind with council, since it disqualified her as a council candidate in October 2024 because of questions about her legal residence. She was living in Bishopville and renting her Ocean City residence to vacationers. That, the council, maintained, meant the resort home could not be her legal residence or domicile.

DeLuca, meanwhile, had been domiciled in a condominium in Ocean City when he first ran for office. He later sold that unit and bought a place in Annapolis because of an illness in the family but continued to serve as a council member.

There are many ways to determine whether a residence is someone’s legal domicile. Income tax records, driver’s license information and voter registration are three good pieces of evidence, but the ultimate determination comes down to something not quite so concrete: intent.

If a person has a place to hang his or her hat and it is the intention of that person to return to it at some point, that same person’s extended stay somewhere else might be viewed as temporary.

The council, back in March, tightened up the charter to make the candidates’ residency requirement less hazy. It remains, however, that “intent” is subject to interpretation, which means the council could have an interesting time of it when it decides the residential circumstances of all involved.

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

PUBLIC EYE

Football’s foolishness

College football season is almost over, thank goodness. It isn’t that I don’t like college football, but the game isn’t what it used to be, as in back when legendary Coach Knute Rockne implored his Notre Dame players to get one for the Gipper.

That was way before my time, of course, and well before the discovery of antibiotics, which would have cured the Gipper’s (George Gipp) strep infection and pneumonia, or at least done a better By job than the sports medicine Stewart practices of that era: “Rub some dirt on it, apply six Dobson leaches to the chest and call me in the morning.”

That was when players didn’t wear real helmets either, because they had leather heads, which could explain how people of that era ended up liking movies with lots of singin’ and dancin’ and no car chases.

Since then, though, we swapped the purity of the game as played at a few institutions to the complete commercialization of the sport at hundreds of post-high school academies, whose names and nicknames we’re expected to know.

It’s a fact. You check the cable TV college football listings any time during the season and you’ll come across one that says something like, “The Horn Dogs meet the Boiled Owls in a clash of North Boondock Conference rivals.

Now, you ask yourself, who are they?

Nowhere in this listing will it say who these teams are or where they come from.

“Hey, it says here that the Horn Dogs will

meet the Boiled Owls this afternoon on channel 1323 HD. Do you know who they are?”

“Sure, the Horn Dogs play for Moonbeam U. and the Boiled Owls hail from the College of Industrial Strength Cleansers, Southern Campus. Come on, keep up!”

And then, there are the bowl seasons and their ridiculous names, like the “Scooters Coffee Frisco Bowl,” for instance.

If you called it just the Frisco Bowl, I’d only be moderately confused because I have no idea where Frisco is. But the Scooter’s Coffee Frisco Bowl? I don’t know Scooter, or wish to, so now I’m doubly confused.

In other words, a game sponsored by someone I do not wish to know is being played in a location unknown to me by a pair of teams that did not distinguish themselves during the regular season, but are now slugging it out for the right to call themselves Scooter’s Champs.

“Hey, we’re Scooter’s champs!”

“Great. Just be sure to do it outside the house.”

Ditto the Pop-Tarts Bowl or the Go Bowling Military Bowl, the slogan for which is probably something like, “Military Bowl: Celebrating our Armed Forces and Mighty Professional Bowlers everywhere.

Somehow this big “for sale” approach to “amateur” sports has diluted the struggle for glory that inspired the Notre Dame team of 1928 to rally late in the game to beat Army.

Rockne, as the story goes, exhorted his team to regroup and “win just one for the Gipper.”

Maybe it’s just me, but I can’t imagine a coach gathering his team around him at half time and saying, “Now go out there and win just one for your Pop and his tarts.

JANUARY 9, 2026

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Between the Lines

By Steve Green County governments across the state all seem to be sharing the same concerns – state legislators could hurt local budgets. The concept of shifting previous state-funded programs and initiatives to the local counties to fund was a recurring theme at the recent winter conference of the Maryland Association of Counties. Whether local governments will be hurt by new funding requirements — such as reducing state funding for education and public safety — seems to be the most significant issue at the county level heading into the legislative session beginning next week.

This looming uncertainty and fear of negative impacts on local counties has been discussed much of late. The county is slated to see about $15 million in new property tax revenue (mostly from West Ocean City) from the recent assessments even with the property tax rate drop and zero homestead tax credit. Officials were quick to clarify the stated amount is fluid due to the state’s potential to pass on unfunded mandates eating up some of that new revenue.

It’s a concern for local legislators ahead of the legislative session this month but it’s a tough road for the Republican officials in a Democrat-controlled government. Local governments are typically left to deal with the changes imposed and it’s especially concerning there is a $1.4 billion deficit for the state to address. State taxes will not be increased in an election year, especially after significant hikes in taxes and fees were passed last year at the state level. Significant spending cuts have been frowned upon at the state level amid the current culture of rising expenses at every turn.

The end result of late for the Maryland legislature has been to assign expenses typically funded at the state level to the county to reduce expenses. The unknowns of new burdens make budget planning difficult, but Worcester County government is fortunate to enjoy large amounts of new tax revenue each year due to climbing land values as well as significant funding in reserves to weather dramatic funding model shifts. This is not the case with other county governments. *** The continual decline in revenue for Ocean City on beach stands is expected in today’s consumer climate, but it’s unlikely the city will ever phase out the franchise approach entirely. The reduced revenue seems to simply be accepted at this point.

In the latest auction of 33 south-end street parcels and one north-end parcel, there were several streets that saw increases in bid amounts – S. Division, 1st, 2nd, 7th, 16th, 18th, 22nd, 25th, 26th and 27th streets. In most cases, the increased bids were marginal, such as the 2nd Street bid increased from $52,800 to $58,000 and the 16th Street parcel went for $50,000 from $45,650. Significant decreases were more common, including the Inlet bid from $82,000 to $46,000; N. Division Street, from $34,100 to $17,000; 4th Street from $46,200 to $28,000; 9th Street from $36,000 to $19,000; and 10th Street from $18,700 to $1,000.

Overall, revenue from the 34 parcels decreased by 16%, from $1,043,050 to $874,500. For all beach stands, the city’s annual revenue projection stands at $1,254,493, or 12% less than the previous season.

The reality here is the beach stand industry is ailing but it should continue to operate as a franchise system for the foreseeable future. The revenue will realistically continue to trend south. Hope for the best seems to be the mantra with beach stand bids. *** On the surface, it seems like preaching to the choir to hold another public forum on offshore wind in Ocean City where opposition runs deep. Diving deeper, it will be interesting to see if supporters of offshore wind show up to express their support. While there seems to be far more opposition to the wind turbines off Ocean City, there are folks in the area who do support it as a form of alternative energy. There’s just more money and organized legal efforts behind the opposition, at least locally.

At Monday’s forum, sponsored by the Stop Offshore Wind group and Ocean City and Worcester County governments, panelists will discuss the 114-turbine wind project’s perceived negative impacts on tourism, commercial and recreational fishing, higher electric costs and environmental consequences on marine habitat and water quality. An update will also be provided on all the legal actions underway on the federal and state levels.

A discussion by the panelists will also include the offshore wind farm’s impact on national security, which seems to be a new mantra raised at the federal level. A press release from the county said, “National Security & Maritime Safety Given Proximity to Wallops Flight Facility and Greater Washington, D.C. Region – electromagnetic reflectivity impacts from offshore turbines on radar performance and electromagnetic systems, military training and restricted airspace, commercial and recreational vessel traffic, and coordination of maritime emergency responses.”

Letters to the editor Ravens Roost fundraising campaign a success Editor, The Ocean City Ravens Roost #44 Penguin Swim Team thanks all those who donated to our efforts in raising over $11,036 in support of Atlantic General Hospital’s 32nd Annual Penguin Swim, including: Individuals: Mike Grimes, Daryl Carpenter, Bill Cordwell, Mike Carpenter, Herbert Roe, Phyllis Bottone, Colette Horn, Anita Roberts, Shelia Carpenter, Mark Faber, Page Kinch, Ashlee Killen, Diane Seeger, Deborah Dennig, Cheryl Jacobs, Virginia Albrecht, Amy Summerville, Lori Betch, Diane Hyland, John Viola, Sharon O’Hare, Karl Behringer, David Creel, Bryan Brushmiller, Mary Martinez, Jamie Korman, Don McMullen, the Daniels Family, Kenneth Smedley, Thomas Atkins, Davona Miller, Lawrence Miller, Kathleen Gonze, Erik Skon, Greg Carpenter, Ellen Tsakalas, Jo Fracchia, Brooke Estes, Barbara & Ron Ferger, David Sakers, Joanie Sobel, Antonia Mattia, Duane Geruschat, Neal Lookner, Kathleen Casey, Wayne Flickinger, Patricia Ford, Joseph Faber, Robin Wolinski, Roger Greenbank, William Carter, Brooke Satterfield, Marc & Patti

Grimes, Barbara Smith, Diane Wormann, Michelle Gray, Darlene & Norm Murphy, Mike & Linda Yurche, Lenore Stanton, Julia Lonoconus, Sherry Carter, Martin Baer, Ryan Kirby, Katherine Magee, Patricia Neal and Bob & Carol Munroe.

Businesses: OC Ravens Roost #44, MR Ducks, The Shrimp Boat, Crabs to Go, Hooper’s Crab House, Coastal Salt, de Lazy Lizard, Bad Monkey, Ocean Pines Yacht Club, Burley Oak Brewing, A Bagel And..., Ocean 13 Restaurant, Copy Central, Pancho & Lefty’s, Forgotten Fifty Distilling, Taphouse Bar & Grill, Seacrets, Fish Tales, Ocean Pines Golf Clubhouse, Macky’s, Wax on Wheels, Fin City Brewing, Park Place Jewelers, Harborside Restaurant, Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Sunset Grill, Talbot Street Water sports, Blue Fish, South Gate Grill, Ocean City Today/Bayside Gazette and the Big Liquor Shop.

The Team: Rob Carpenter, Dennis Faber, Cindi Brought, Claire Brought, Lewis Furman, Maggie Miller, Gary Miller, Sue Challis, Anita Satterfield, Lesa Romig, Amelia Romig, Joe Seeger, Bradley Miller, Hamilton Day, Susan Berterman, Frank Berterman, Lance Burris, Angela Smith, Presley Smith, Continued on Page 58

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JANUARY 9, 2026

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Continued from Page 57 Mason Smith, Steve Lovellette, Emma Lovellette, Jolie Shull, William Shull, Sara Brown, Jim Brown and Member Emeritus Tom Maly Ocean City Ravens Roost #44

Inflation better under Trump administration Editor, I don’t understand why Democrat politicians are campaigning on “the affordability crisis” now when I can’t recall them commiserating with us about it back in 2022 and 2023 when we really had an affordability crisis (caused by President Biden’s policies which were actively supported by the Democratic party).

When President Trump left office in January 2021, the inflation rate was 1.4%. By January 2022 Consumer prices were up 7.5% which was

the largest 12-month increase since the twelve-month period ending February 1982. This rise was driven by significant increases in food and energy prices. By June 2022 the inflation rate was 9.1%. Over the next year the inflation rate slowly dropped, but never to the level of January 2021. This outrageous increase in the CPI (Consumer Price Index and Inflation are basically the same thing) cost American families thousands of dollars over the four years of the Biden presidency. Again, I don’t recall any Democrat politicians railing about this outrageous inflation and the cost to American families.

The inflation rate for December 2025 is 2.7%.

Another consideration is gasoline prices: in January 2021, the average price in the U.S. for a gallon of gas was $2.39. By January 2022 it was $3.30 per gallon and by January

2025 it was $3.08. In December 2025, a year after President Trump took office, the average price was $2.89.

Unfortunately, it appears that a sizable percentage of Americans are listening to the gloomy prognostications of the mainstream media and Democrat politicians, because in surveys they don’t feel positive about the economy. I know I feel a lot more positive today than I did four years ago. And I am eagerly looking forward to seeing the results of President Trump’s policies in the coming years.

Elizabeth Hahn Bishopville

Fearmongering used in offshore wind debate Editor, Rep. Andy Harris, as always, puts his own MAGA spin on “offshore wind” in the recent article about the planned project off our coast, echoing talking points that come straight from the fossil fuel industry rather than the

realities facing coastal Maryland.

Blaming a “foreign-owned company” may play well with his base, but it does nothing to address the real threats to our region: rising electric bills, saltwater intrusion poisoning farm fields and drinking wells, flooded streets during routine storms, and warming oceans that are already pushing some fisheries farther offshore.

These are not abstract climate impacts — they are happening now on the Eastern Shore. Offshore wind is one of the few tools we have to lower long-term energy costs and reduce the pollution that is worsening these problems. Energy bills continue to go up and pinch family budgets. Adding clean wind energy will help bring down those costs, but Andy Harris stands in the way. It’s time for Andy Harris to stop stoking fear and start doing the job he was elected to do: work for all the communities in his district, not just the loudest political faction.

Kathy Phillips West Ocean City

Have an opinion?

We invite you to share it, but all letters are subject to verification, so please include your name and phone number. All letters are subject to editing for space and to protect the author and this newspaper from legal action. Email letters to editor@ octodaydispatch.com. For questions, call 410-723-6397.

JANUARY 9, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

Fundraising goal exceeded at this year’s Penguin Swim Hundreds of plungers braved chilly ocean, air to support AGH Foundation On Jan. 1, supporters of the 32nd Annual Penguin Swim plunged into 41-degree water amid a “feels like” air temperature of 28°, leaving 2025 behind and welcoming the new year.

With nearly 850 registered swimmers, this year’s Penguin Swim was an incredible success, according to the Atlantic General Hospital Foundation. The event exceeded its fundraising goal, raising more than $131,000 in support of the foundation.

Fundraising awards were presented to the following: Individual – Youth (18 & Under): Leila Attia, $1,040; Logan Sexauer, $405; and Brooklyn and Ellie Tunis, tied $280 each.

Individual – Adult: Susan Sturla,

$2,280; Brittany Pridgeon, $1,970; and Melissa Ruck, $515, Team – Youth & Family: Team Believe, $4,360; Utter Penguins, $2,230; and Zoo Crew, $1,095.

Team – Community: OC Ravens Roost #44, $11,011; Val D’Ambrogi’s License to Chill – $2,545; and Damn Seagulls, $630.

Team – Business: Bull on the Beach, $36,716; Local 486 Swim Team, $5,602; and Yoga Centric OC – $1,660 Novelty winners were: • Oldest Penguin: Robert Reese • Youngest Penguin: Zach Tyborowski • Traveled the Furthest: Bob Kimber (Great Britain) • Best Youth Costume: Krista Stump • Best Adult Costume: Butch Lorditch • Best Couple Costume: Melissa Page • Best Group Costume: Damn Seagulls • Blingiest Costume: Madison Rackley

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JANUARY 9, 2026

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OBITUARIES DONNA MARIE ATWELL CAVALLARO Ocean Pines Donna Marie Atwell Cavallaro, 71, of Ocean Pines, passed away on Dec. 18, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.

Born on Nov. 20, 1954, in Philadelphia, she was the daughter of the late Donald Atwell and Anne Grady Atwell.

Raised in the Westbrook Park section of Upper Darby, she was a member of Holy Cross Catholic Church and a graduate of Cardinal O’Hara High School, Donna Cavallaro Class of 1972. A true Delco girl through and through, that spirit stayed with her throughout her life.

She raised her family in Drexel Hill and Coatesville, Pa., gathering friends along the way — much like Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz, collecting companions along the Yellow Brick Road.

A devoted wife, mother, and recent nana, she found her greatest joy in time spent with family. With a magnetic personality, quiet strength, and a remarkable sense of humor, Donna had a way of making people laugh without even trying — and if you were lucky enough to make her laugh, you never forgot how it made you feel.

She loved camping with her family and vacations to the shore, Knoebels, and Lake Wallenpaupack.

Whether hosting Christmas gatherings, offering thoughtful advice, or simply listening, she made everyone feel special.

She worked for many years in several roles at QVC, where she shared one of her greatest gifts — helping others. A longtime volunteer, she generously gave her time to organizations ranging from the Boy Scouts to fundraisers and marching bands.

In retirement, Donna made her

home in Ocean Pines, becoming a fierce pinochle player and a devoted passenger aboard the family pontoon boat. She was grateful for the opportunity to visit her ancestral homeland of County Mayo, Ireland, where she reunited with family and visited the birthplace of her grandmother. She also enjoyed many trips to California and Florida and developed a love for cruising — traveling more than she ever imagined and embracing life with joy and adventure.

She is survived by her loving husband, Anthony Cavallaro Jr.; her children, Brian Cavallaro, Andrew Cavallaro, and Christina Cavallaro Johnson (Matthew Johnson); her cherished granddaughter, Lily Johnson; her sister, Barbara Atwell Garvey; her nephews, Donald Garvey and Matthew Garvey; and her beloved Pickles, the cat.

Friends and relatives are invited to attend her memorial visitation on Saturday, January 10, 2026 from 9:30-10:30 a.m. in St. Gabriel Catholic Church, Mohawk Ave., Norwood, where Mass will be at 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow in Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery, Springfield.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Donna’s memory to the Worcester County Humane Society at worcestercountyhumanesociety.org.

EMMANUEL LOPEZ JR. Ocean City Emmanuel Lopez Jr., age 64, passed away at home on December 29, 2025. He was born on August 1, 1961, to Emmanuel Lopez Sr., and Aurelia Lopez (Allen).

Manny attended E. Lopez Jr. High Point High School in Beltsville, MD. His career spanned 30 gratify-

ing years with Coca Cola, retiring in 2010. Manny enjoyed his Harley Davidson motorcycles, classic Westerns, fishing and going to the gun range. He was a member of Elks Lodge #2645, American Legion Post 166, and the Ocean City Horn Dogs Social Club.

Survived by his wife, Bonnie, of Ocean City, his children, Emmanuel Anthony (wife Jennifer) of Chesapeake, Va., Andrew (wife Ana) of Gilbert, Ariz., Jordan (fiancé Dorrie) of Boston, Mass., and Tucker of Great Falls, Va., as well as beloved granddaughters Madison, Cadence, Olivia and Evelyn. He is also survived by siblings Debbie (Bill), Pam (Lee) and Joe (Mary Ann), nieces and nephews, including the honor of being Godfather to Amanda and Dylan.

Services will be held at 1 p.m. On Friday, January 16, 2026, at St. Luke Catholic Church, 9903 Coastal Highway, in Ocean City. Family and friends will also be welcomed to his Celebration of Life, following his funeral mass, at Elks Lodge #2645 on 138th St. at 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Manny's memory to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. https://bit.ly/44Z3b2t AUDREY JONES Berlin Audrey L. Jones, age 98, passed away on January 5, 2026 in Berlin, Maryland. Born in Pittsville, Maryland on July 24, 1927, she was the daughter of the late Frank A. Cooper and Lula K. Cooper.

Throughout her life, Audrey was a de- Audrey L. Jones voted mother to Linda and grandmother to Kelly, and they shared a strong and special

bond. She had a deep love for the simple things in life, including her home, flowers, working in her yard, cooking and baking, and sharing those treats with others. She always went out of her way to help family and friends. She established and maintained Audrey’s Beauty Shop, which she operated out of her home for over 50 years. She had a loyal clientele and would also visit local nursing homes, to not only cut the hair of residents, but also to share stories and foster a sense of connection. Audrey and her beloved husband of 53 years, Randall Jones, maintained a strong partnership and supported each other through life’s ups and downs. Audrey overcame many difficult circumstances in life and was a woman of deep conviction and faith, who was determined, dedicated, kind, and loving.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Randall Jones; her daughter Linda J. Shockley; her sisters – Mada Cooper Gravenor and Lana Cooper Davis; and her brothers – Medford H. Cooper, Garmen Cooper, and Robert Wilkins.

She is survived by her granddaughter, Kelly Shockley; son-in-law, Carroll Shockley; and niece, Mary Davis.

A funeral service will be held at The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin, on Friday, January 9, 2026 at 2 p.m. with a one-hour visitation prior to the service, from 1-2 p.m. Following this, a graveside service will be held at Sunset Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations can be made in her honor to Friendship Church of Berlin, www.friendshipchurchofberlin.org.

Letters of condolence may be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home – Berlin.

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OC Today-Dispatch Jan. 9, 2026

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PHOTO COURTESY OF SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Junior Danny Kirwan poked the ball away from Delmar outside the paint during the first half of Tuesday’s rout.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

The entire Mallards team swarmed the Wildcats’ Darrius Calter on his drive to the hoop.

Long break, injuries plague Mallards in rout

By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer (Jan. 9, 2026) The Delmar Wildcats took advantage of injuries affecting Worcester Prep’s boys basketball team on Tuesday night, crushing the Mallards, 53-14, and dropping the team’s season record to 3-6.

The rush from a two-week layoff was evident for Worcester Prep throughout the game but the Mallards came out strong with three pointers coming from Danny Kirwan and Je-

remy Forman. Also scoring were Anish Batra and Paxton Mault with a basket each. The quarter ended, however, with Delmar up 16-11. The Mallards would only score three more points in the final three quarters.

The Wildcats dominated the second quarter, scoring 19 points while the Mallards did not score.

The third quarter was much of the same with Delmar outscoring Worcester, 13-3. Forman hit a three for the Mallards.

The fourth quarter saw a lot of substitutions and scrappy play with the Wildcats blanked the Mallards, 5-0.

“That was a tough one. We were down; some injuries benched a few players,” said Head Coach Eddie Rohe. “A couple of guys came back from ankles they were rehabbing over break. We got a lot of stuff to work on but you know they play hard. They don’t stop playing till the very end, and they are all for each other, and they get each other’s backs, no matter

what the score is.

“And I love them for that. They’re great guys and we’re going to be back.

This is a tough game to come back to after break. We got a big game on Friday night and we’re going to take the next couple days and practice hard.

We’re going to get our Big Ben (Anthony) back. … Trying to win out.”

Worcester Prep will host the Salisbury School Friday night. The Mallards beat their conference rivals, 59-37, last month.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

CHILLY FUNDRAISER Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Eastern Shore hosted its 33rd Annual Santa’s Open Charity Golf Tournament last month at the Ocean City Golf Club. Despite brisk temperatures, golfers arrived in festive force- donning ugly sweaters, reindeer antlers, elf hats, and holiday costumes- to support youth across the Eastern Shore through the power of vital programs, enrichment, and resources.

Taking home top honors on the Seaside Course was the team of RJ Robinson, Steve Lewis, Justin Carter and Itsy Furneaux from IG Burton Auto Group. Capturing top honors on the Newport Bay Course was the RAMS team consisting of Jeff Tipton, Bryan Clark, Scott Dorsey and Tim Velasco.

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