With a referendum in the offing, the City Council instead rescinds the moratorium on issuing new short-term rental licenses in single-family home neighborhoods. Members also to cease seeking ways to limit these rentals in traditional neighborhoods. — PAGE 10
City Council decides against buying farmland at edge of Berlin, but says it’s still committed to developing facility. — PAGE 12
An uncooperative calendar and desire for longer winter break leads school officials to break tradition.— PAGE 3
— PAGE 18
STEVE GREEN/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
KEEP HANGING ON
Stephen Decatur High freshman John Bergey is pictured competing in the Strength and Conditioning State Tournament at Worcester County Recreation Center. Decatur’s two teams placed first and second, winning the state championship for the third straight year. Bergey, who tripled his previous best time, is pictured being encouraged by coach Shannon Bone and teammate Carsen Knerr. See page 60 for team photo.
Worcester schools to reopen before Labor Day for 26-27
report holiday hits late this year, votes Aug. 31 to give longer holiday break
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer Leaders
(Feb. 20, 2026) Worcester County Public Schools will start before Labor Day this fall, and professional development days will be staggered, per the recently approved 2026-2027 school year calendar.
At the Worcester County Board of Education’s meeting this week, the body heard from WCPS Coordinator of Public Relations Carrie Sterrs, who presented the recommended schedule for the upcoming school year.
Most notably, the calendar has students getting their backpacks ready a little early this year. The official first day of school is set for Monday, Aug. 31, a move that deviates from the educational system’s traditional postLabor Day start.
Sterrs said the decision to push up the first day of school is based on the fact that the end-of-summer holiday falls abnormally late in 2026. Labor Day is Sept. 7 this year. A Sept. 8 backto-school is just not feasible, leaders say.
WCPS Superintendent Annette Wallace said that she and Board of Education President Todd Ferrante “had a lot of conversations” about a pre-Labor Day start, and what the logistics of that would look like. Part of that process, Wallace said, was speaking with Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan, as numerous older students — and some teachers and staff — work at the resort’s businesses during the tourist season.
The change will allow for time off elsewhere in the calendar.
The school system will be closed on Friday, Sept. 4, and Monday, Sept. 7, for Labor Day weekend. Winter break will be a full two weeks, which Sterrs said “was something the school system was very vocal about.”
Christmas and New Year’s vacation is set for Monday, Dec. 21 through Friday, Jan. 1.
Additionally, the tentative last day of school is June 11, rather than June 15 as was previously considered.
Regarding the early start, board member Jon Andes acknowledged the challenge the calendar development team faces and the difficulty of appealing to all school system stakeholders.
“Everyone wants to start after Labor Day, have two weeks off at Christmastime, a week off at spring break, and get out of school on June 1,” he said. “That’s an impossible feat to accomplish.”
Also notable to the 2026-2027 calendar is how professional development is handled.
Sterrs said this model pilots a staggered closure. Under the system, elementary and high schools will be closed for students on the same days to support staff professional development. On alternative dates, Berlin Intermediate School, Cedar Chapel Special School, and all three area middle schools will be closed for students.
The professional development days are: Oct. 7, elementary and high schools are closed for students, all other schools open; Jan. 13, Cedar Chapel Special School, Berlin Intermediate School and all middle schools closed for students, all other schools open; Feb. 10, elementary and high schools are closed for students, all other schools open; and March 10, Cedar Chapel Special School, Berlin Intermediate School and all middle schools closed for students, all other schools open.
Sterrs said that a previous half-day model for professional development was "consistently challenging,” particularly for transportation and food services.
She added that the two groups were chosen with childcare in mind.
“We paired our elementary and high schools together for those closures,” Sterrs said. “Older siblings and neighbors may be available for childcare.”
For the other grouping, the state permits children over the age of eight to be home alone. However, Sterrs maintained that families should make the best care decisions available to them.
“Maryland law allows children over the age of eight to be home unattended,” she said. “That is not to say we are endorsing that practice…but by adopting a calendar today, we are giving families ample time, six months, to plan for these days.”
Ultimately, the school board approved the proposed calendar. Member Jackie Cutlip was the sole dissenting vote.
Cutlip said she was unable to sign off on the schedule because the preLabor Day start was not mentioned on the three calendars previously considered and presented to the community.
“For me and students and staff and people, I wasn’t expecting the preLabor Day thing,” she said. “That threw me for a loop. I’m not opposed to that in the years it hits…It just came out of left field. It wasn’t on calendar one, two, or three.”
She added that she also struggled to understand the staggered professional development closures.
“Parents and teachers alike, no one likes PD,” Cutlip continued. “But they have to do it … half days present a challenge, but full days will present more of a challenge for rotating days … I think it will be more troublesome … So that is why I voted no.”
Board of Ed floats $157M operating budget
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Feb. 20, 2026) The Worcester County Board of Education will be taking a $157 million operating budget before the county commissioners later this year, having approved that spending package for the next fiscal year on Tuesday.
Chief Financial Officer Vince Tolbert told the board the plan reflects negotiated employee salary increases, rising health insurance costs, transportation expenses, and expanded student programs. The proposed FY27 budget totals $157,061,424, representing an increase of about $13 million or 9.19% from FY26.
According to Tolbert, the largest share of the budget increase — $7,011,535 — comes from employee and bus contractor costs. This in-
cludes $4.39 million for teaching staff salary increases, $2.18 million for support staff, an increase in substitute teachers’ pay from $15 to $17.25 per hour, which accounts for $175,000, and $268,000 in rate increases for the school system’s bus contractors.
Health insurance and retirement expenses make up another significant portion of the budget increase. While subject to change, the school system anticipates a 16.8% increase in health insurance costs totaling $2.74 million, along with nearly $300,000 in other post-employment benefits and $60,000 in retirement costs. Combined, those items account for $3.09 million of the $13 million increase.
The budget also asks for $1.72 million for student programs and services. Requests include maintaining
two pre-kindergarten teachers and two educational assistants at Pocomoke Elementary School; additional funds for dual-enrollment opportunities; launching an Elementary RISE behavioral support program; assigning bus aides to all elementary school transportation routes; and continuing summer academy programs.
Tolbert cautioned that without inhouse behavioral support programs like RISE, some students could require out-of-county placements costing $200,000 to $300,000 per student annually.
“There are no areas on this side of the bridge for those services,” he said. “That means they’re going to Baltimore, across the bay … If we just had a couple of those students placed in those out-of-county services, it would
be more than what we have to pay for this RISE program.”
Furthermore, operational realignment and inflationary adjustments, as well as technology upgrades, accounts for $1.18 million of the overall budget increase.
In addition, the board approved a $400,000 capital request for Berlin Intermediate School, which is expected to follow closely behind the planned construction of Buckingham Elementary School.
“We are getting ready to break ground on BES, hopefully in the spring of 2027,” Tolbert said. “Right on the heels of that is the BIS project … To make sure we keep BIS on track, we are asking for some local funds for that project moving forward in 2027.”
He added that the Worcester County Commissioners know the $400,000 request is coming.
Board member Jon Andes noted that the budget provides a $4,000 pay increase for all employees, helping the district meet the state-mandated $60,000 minimum teacher salary under Maryland’s Blueprint for Education.
“The pay increase is there, required by law, so it has to happen,” he maintained.
The board voted to approve the budget as presented, with only one dissenting vote. Board member Jackie Cutlip said her opposition stemmed from concerns about school safety funding. She said that while behavioral programs are included, there is no dedicated line item for safety specific initiatives.
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Worcester seeks more liquor board panelists
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Feb. 20, 2026) After a surprise gubernatorial appointment to Worcester County’s liquor board caught local leaders off guard, officials are now backing a bill in Annapolis to expand the powerful panel from three to five members.
Maryland’s governor is responsible for making appointments to county liquor boards and typically considers the recommendations of local leaders when vacancies arise. Members serve staggered four-year terms and receive an annual stipend of $2,100.
However, according to County Administrator Weston Young, when longtime board chair William “Billy” Esham, Jr., stepped down last year, Gov. Wes Moore’s office failed to connect with Worcester County officials
to discuss a suggested replacement.
Young said county officials were surprised when Esham’s adult son, William E. Esham III, was named an alternate to the board in July 2025 by the governor without their input.
“When the vacancy presented itself, we didn’t make a stink about this publicly,” Young said. “It was just like, well, did they ever reach out to us?
Let’s talk to Senator [Mary Beth] Carozza; they hadn’t reached out to her either.”
Young said the governor’s office later told county officials that a new employee unfamiliar with protocol handled the appointment.
“Even if the intentions weren’t there,” he added, “it gives a really bad appearance. We’ve conveyed our concerns and they’ve addressed our concerns.”
He said the mix-up is what prompted county officials to take a deep dive into how other counties run their liquor boards, leading them to conclude they wanted two more panelists and to seek a legislative solution from Lower Shore lawmakers.
That bill, Senate Bill 681, sponsored by Sen. Mary Beth Carozza, is scheduled for a hearing Feb. 20. Delegates Wayne Hartman and Kevin Anderson are sponsoring companion bills in the House of Delegates. The county commissioners voted Feb. 17 to formally lend their support to the legislation along with a slate of other bills. In a tourism-driven economy built on restaurants and bars, liquor board members wield significant power – because they decide who is allowed to sell beer, wine, and liquor in Worcester County.
Formally known as the Board of License Commissioners, the board also manages license renewal and hearing complaints, and picks punishments for licensees who violate the rules, which can include sales to minors.
Its oversight even extends to entertainment, setting conditions on whether a bar may provide a DJ or live music, and how many performers may take the stage.
Statewide, about half of county liquor boards have five to seven panelists, while the other half employ three-person boards, Young noted. In some counties, like Howard and Kent, the county commissioners themselves serve as the liquor board.
Young told OC Today-Dispatch that the increase is justified because other boards tasked with handling “equally important” issues for Worcester County, like planning or zoning appeals, have seven members.
“Given the resort nature of the county, with a higher portion of restaurants and bars per capita, the commissioners believe increasing to a five-member board makes sense,” Young said.
Other current liquor board members include Chairman R. Charles Nichols, Jr., Reese F. Cropper III and Marty W. Pusey, according to liquor board Administrator April Payne.
Other bills considered
The Worcester County Commissioners on Tuesday also agreed to support additional legislation pending in the General Assembly session, including bills that would accomplish the following:
- Require the Maryland Public Service Commission to conduct an analysis of the full costs and benefits of electricity generation in the state (SB 270).
- Establish a temporary to-go permit for alcoholic beverages that could be used during special events, like Ocean City’s Country Calling (SB 846).
- Repeal certain parts of the Building Energy Performance Standards (HB 988).
- Incentivize propane-powered school buses (HB 1019).
Conversely, another slate of bills will be opposed by the county commissioners. They would:
- Establish restrictions on where sewage sludge can be placed on land, including mitigation and monitoring protocols (SB 719).
- Mandate that some jurisdictions create opportunities for housing by evaluating the suitability of vacant, unused commercial and industrial land for housing use (HB 778).
- Mandate the county provide an annual report to the comptroller detailing who their subcontractors are, including how many employees and whether the contractor is a certified minority business enterprise (HB 905).
Council lifts short-term rental moratorium
Officials now say additional rules on short-term rentals not needed at this
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Feb. 20, 2026) After learning a petition had enough valid signatures to force the issue to referendum, the Ocean City Council this week voted to rescind an ordinance extending a moratorium on the issuance of shortterm rental licenses in single-family neighborhoods.
The results of a petition drive challenging the moratorium were reported during Tuesday’s council meeting, nearly a week after the Ocean City Board of Supervisors of Elections convened to verify the 1,257 names collected by community mem-
bers this winter.
Board members were able to validate 1,159 signatures, which meets the requirements to put the legislation before voters in either a special election or the next general election, set for November.
However, after accepting the results of the petition, the council this week exercised a third option – rescinding the controversial ordinance entirely. Noting that the council had reached some resolution in its shortterm rental discussions, members expressed their desires to do away with the moratorium.
“We said we didn’t know if it was going to be a few months or Dec. 31, and here we are,” Council Secretary Will Savage said. “I wasn’t here last week, but it sounds like we got a lot of resolution done. I think we are at a
point where we rescind it.”
Last February, city leaders agreed to a 11-month moratorium, halting city staff from issuing new short-term rental licenses to properties located in the R-1 residential and MH mobile districts. From the outset, they said the temporary pause would give them more time to evaluate the effectiveness of newly enacted short-term rental regulations.
However, when the moratorium was revisited in the fall, a council majority expressed their desires to extend it another year. They argued more time was needed to find a solution for regulating short-term rentals in single-family neighborhoods.
After the Ocean City Council voted in December to extend a moratorium through Jan. 3, 2027, an opposition group made good on their promise to launch a petition drive challenging the council’s decision. And last month, the city clerk accepted the 1,257 signatures the group collected over a 40-day period.
During last week’s validation process, the city’s election board determined the petitioners had gathered more than the 990 signatures needed to bring the ordinance to a referendum. According to the charter, any ordinance successfully petitioned must be stayed until it is
approved by a majority of the city’s voters.
“At this point, the moratorium essentially would be lifted as of tonight,” City Manager Terry McGean told the council Tuesday.
Following the reading of the petition results, Councilwoman Carol Proctor made a motion this week to rescind the moratorium, arguing that residents had spoken on the issue of short-term rental regulations three times – once during last year’s petition effort, another during last year’s special election, and again during this year’s petition drive.
Councilman Jake Mitrecic offered a second.
“When we had our original discussion about extending the moratorium, I said if we came to the conclusion of our talks about shortterm rental ordinances, that I would be the first one to vote for the moratorium to end,” he said. “I’m a man of my word, and it seems we’ve reached our end. So I will support it.”
The motion passed with all six council members in favor.
As for resolving the matter of the proliferation of short-term rentals in single-family home neighborhoods, a council majority agreed that additional regulations were not needed at this time.
Backlash leads OC to seek another sports complex site
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Feb. 20, 2026) The Town of Ocean City will explore other locations for a sports complex following recent backlash from nearby residents regarding a proposal to build the facility on a 95-acre site located next to Stephen Decatur High School.
Following a contentious community meeting earlier this month, and a letter from Berlin’s mayor and council asking Ocean City to remove the site from its consideration, it appears the Mayor and City Council will not be moving forward with the project on a parcel of land – owned by the Harrison family — located north of Flower Street and west of Seahawk Road.
While sharing the city’s commitment to developing a facility in the future, Council President Matt James said in a statement Wednesday that the city is exploring other options.
“This has been a long and extensive process,” he said. “In response to recent community feedback, additional options are being explored at this time; the exhaustive search continues.”
In a meeting earlier this month, members of the Flower Street neighborhood and other nearby communities were quick to share their objections to
the city’s plans for an indoor-outdoor complex at the site.
From the outset, they argued the proposed location would generate more traffic in an already congested area and create additional burden on Berlin’s fire and EMS services, among other things.
Many also talked about the way the Flower Street community had been marginalized, highlighting the landfill placed along their road and the Route 113 highway that cut off their access to downtown Berlin.
Berlin’s mayor and town council took it one step further in the days that followed, issuing a letter to the Town of Ocean City with a request to abandon its consideration of the site.
The Ocean City Council met behind closed doors for more than an hour Tuesday night to discuss property acquisition for the sports complex.
In an open session that followed, council members voted to allow dedicated advertising funds generated through room tax revenues to also be used for a future sports complex, wherever that may be.
“This is not site specific on a sports complex,” Council Secretary Will Savage clarified this week. “This is setting aside money for the concept.”
VEHICLE PROTECTION SPECIALIST
Room tax to help fund sports plex
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Feb. 20, 2026) The Ocean City Council this week amended its room tax policy to allow funds dedicated to advertising to be used for a future sports complex, wherever and whenever that may be.
In a unanimous vote, the council on Tuesday passed the first reading of an ordinance that changes the expenditure of money derived from hotel rental tax. As proposed, the legislation would allow advertising funds generated from that room tax revenue to also be used for a sports complex.
“It just allows sports tourism to be an allowable expense in that fund,” Council
President Matt James explained this week.
From the outset, city officials have made it clear that any sports complex the city constructs in the coming years would be funded in partnership with the
Maryland Stadium Authority. The city’s portion of that cost would come from room tax revenues generated by hotel and vacation rental stays.
Last year, the city successfully petitioned the Worcester County Commissioners to increase the room tax rate from 5% to 6%. The proposed ordinance brought before the City Council Tuesday would maintain the previously adopted fund dedication for advertising – 44% of the first 5% of room tax collected, and 40% of the 1% increase – but would make the sports complex project an allowable expenditure.
According to a staff memo, the 1% increase in room tax is expected to generate an additional $5 million annually, for a total of $30 million over the coming years. An average of 43.3% (or $13 million) would be dedicated to both advertising and the sports complex, while the
remaining 56.7% (or $17 million) would go to the general fund.
“When we requested the increase from 5 to 6%, there were many different items,” James said this week. “I think some of them were related to public safety, some of them were related to just general government expenditures, and others were to sports tourism as an entire initiative of the town. This increases funding to the general fund and will ultimately give additional funding to the advertising. Now we're allowing sports tourism to be included in that fund.”
However, Councilwoman Carol Proctor shared her concerns that any room tax revenues allocated to advertising could be used for either advertising or the sports complex. She said a portion of those funds should be dedicated, and set aside, for a sports complex.
“Why couldn't we put it into a capital
Room tax revenue allowed for sports facility
improvement fund for tourism?” she asked. “Because that way, if we’re building up a piggy bank, or savings, to utilize for the sports complex – which that is always how it’s been presented to the public – then those funds are there and can’t be touched unless it’s for that or something else we appropriate that for, such as another capital improvement that we would need.”
City Manager Terry McGean said designating funds for a sports complex would be “premature,” as it remained unclear how much the project would cost or where the facility would go.
“Ultimately when it comes time to borrow the money, then I think you would make it very clear that’s where it is coming from,” he replied.
James said the ordinance before the City Council this week allows the sports complex project to be funded through room tax, and not the general fund. While acknowledging her concerns, Councilman John Gehrig said the ordinance as presented was a housekeeping matter, adding that the City Council controls advertising spending through the annual budget process.
“This just allows us to spend it on the sports complex, whenever we need it,” he said.
During public comments, resident Vince Gisriel opposed the ordinance, arguing that several studies on the sports
complex site showed operating deficits at comparable facilities, market saturation, and declining participation in outdoor sports. He also expressed concerns about state funding and the use of public funds.
“I keep hearing that there's no burden on the Ocean City taxpayer, that the tourist will pay this,” he said. “Every penny that you take in from room tax is public money. As elected officials you have a fiduciary responsibility to watch every penny of public money and not spend it on projects that are not supported by your own studies.”
Gisriel also alleged the ordinance was a way for the City Council to avoid going to the bond market, a move that would take away the public’s opportunity to oppose the funding mechanism. City officials fired back, adding that the sports complex project would be bonded and that any property acquisition for the facility would be approved through a public ordinance.
Tuesday’s meeting included heated conversations between Gisriel and Gehrig, who accused Gisriel of fearmongering and misleading the public.
“Residents do want to know how it's going to be paid for,” Gehrig said. “And now we can show them with our code that property tax will not be used for the sports complex, and people who are using it will pay for it.”
Gehrig went on to argue that recreational sports are declining because of the rising popularity of travel sports, and
that Ocean City had the amenities to bring teams to the area. He added that the city has partners willing to invest in what he sees as an economic generator for Ocean City.
“The more money we make, the more people we bring here, the more economic velocity flows through our economy, the more money we may be able to lower property taxes and have world class facilities, a clean town, and safe and respectful guests, which is the other thing we are trying to do here,” he said.
While acknowledging the facility might not make money right away, Mayor Rick Meehan said it would benefit the community. As an example, he noted that while the convention center operates at a loss each year, the Maryland Stadium Authority continues to fund expansions at the site, as it brings in additional tax dollars for the state.
“It's not the facility,” Gehrig added. “Nobody operates the sports complex for the building to be a source of revenue. The fact that it breaks even is a bonus. It's the revenue generated through all the activity in town.”
The council went on to vote 6-0 to pass the oridnance on first reading. Officials said the legislation did not specify a site for the sports complex, but simply set aside money for the project.
“This is enabling legislation,” Meehan said. “It doesn’t require us to do this. It just changes the code so it would allow us to do this if we find a project we all believe would be beneficial to this community, and we’re prepared to move forward. We will have a funding mechanism in place that will not come out of the general fund, but be generated by room tax, which is money spent here and derived here from our tourists.”
Pocomoke councilman files for House seat
cern is the people who live in 38A. I’m Eastern Shore first and we’ll see where everything else falls,” he told OC Today-Dispatch on Wednesday.
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Feb. 20, 2026) Saying Worcester County needs a stronger voice in Annapolis, a Pocomoke City councilman and charter fishing captain has filed to run in the Republican primary for the District 38A House of Delegates seat.
Carroll Lee “C.L.” Marshall filed as a candidate on Feb. 13. He’s running on what he calls an “Eastern Shore platform,” one focused on supporting agriculture, fishing, and economic development.
“I’m on the Republican ticket, but make no mistake, my primary con-
Marshall said he wants to push back on policies he believes overlook or harm the Lower Shore. He’s strongly opposed to the proposed offshore wind project off Ocean City and is critical of stringent state and federal oversight of the farming industry. He also hopes to bring economic development and flood mitigation funding to the district.
“I know the learning curve is steep, but I think we need another person on our team from this area who sees the big picture – who understands fishing, who understands tourism, who’ll fight for the farmers when they need it,” he added.
Marshall had been named a final-
ist to fill the seat after the October 2025 death of four-term incumbent Charles Otto. Kevin Anderson, a Princess Anne farmer, won the appointment from Gov. Wes Moore ahead of the 2026 General Assembly session.
Marshall, 62, owns and operates Tangier Sound Charters, a charter fishing outfit, and is a licensed fishing guide. He also has sales experience for the Salisbury-based Holt Paper & Chemical Co.
He has been a member of the Worcester County Tourism Advisory Board, the Atlantic General Hospital Foundation board, and the Delmarva Discovery Center board. He is also the author of five books about the Chesapeake Bay.
Born and raised on Virginia’s Eastern Shore, Marshall moved to Pocomoke City in 1987. He was elected to represent District 5 on the Pocomoke City Council in 2024.
“My hands are in the dirt here. My hands are in the water here. It’s of value to me. I feel that if I’m elected, I can make a difference,” he said.
District 38A includes all of Somerset County, 20% of Worcester County, and 5% of Wicomico County.
Two others have filed to run for the seat: Shelley Johnson, a Democrat out of Princess Anne, and Tim Howlett, a Republican from Crisfield. Howlett had also been named a finalist for the gubernatorial appointment last year.
It’s unclear at this time if Del. Anderson will run to keep the seat in November’s election.
As of Feb. 18, he was not listed as a candidate on a state Board of Elections website. The filing deadline is Feb. 24.
Carroll Lee “C.L.” Marshall
Bicyclists allowed on boards until 2 p.m. this summer
Ruling gives nonmotorized devices an extra two hours
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Feb. 20, 2026) A City Council majority this week agreed to give bicyclists two more hours to traverse the Boardwalk during summer months.
With a favorable recommendation from the Ocean City’s police commission in hand, the council on Tuesday agreed to extend bicycle hours on the Boardwalk to 2 p.m. The approved resolution will give community members and visitors an additional two hours to use bicycles, nonmotorized skateboards and more on the boards, beginning the Saturday before Memorial Day and continuing through Labor Day.
“We felt comfortable adding those two extra hours,” City Manager Terry McGean told the council this week.
Before last year, bikes and other similar modes of transportation were allowed on the Boardwalk from 2 a.m. to noon during the summer season. At all other times of the year, they are allowed on the boards at any time.
However, last spring, members of the Ocean City Planning and Zoning Commission asked city representatives to consider allowing bikes on the Boardwalk at all times during the summer, as the city was no longer running the Boardwalk trams.
To that end, members of the city’s bicycle and pedestrian advisory committee last July recommended extending bike hours, rather than eliminating them altogether. And in August, the City Council passed a resolution to move up the start time for Boardwalk bicycling and skateboarding from 2 a.m. to midnight, arguing that the additional time would encourage nighttime workers to travel home on the Boardwalk rather than on the street.
Earlier this month, however, members of the city’s police commission agreed to revisit the issue, this time sending forward a favorable recommendation to add bike hours in the afternoon, rather than at night. Officials argued that while Boardwalk congestion increases later in the day, allowing bicycle usage earlier in the afternoon would remain manageable.
This week, the council voted 5-1, with Councilwoman Carol Proctor opposed, to extend the bike hours. Proctor argued allowing bikes, skateboards and the like on the Boardwalk during the busy afternoon hours would create a safety issue.
“There’s so many people up there,” she said.
FILE PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Ocean City Council votes to give bikers an additional two hours to ride up and down the boardwalk this summer.
Commissioners table 611 rezoning attempt
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Feb. 20, 2026) A proposal to rezone a narrow strip of agricultural land along Route 611 for commercial use stalled Tuesday after the Worcester County Commissioners signaled in a public hearing they were unlikely to approve the request.
Facing rejection, the property owner’s attorney asked for a postponement so he could pursue a lessintensive zoning designation. Petitioner Aaron Finney of KASA Holdings LLC, said through his attorney he’ll regroup and pursue a scaledback plan instead.
“We’re not developers. We’re in the technology business and we thought we had a spot we could develop for our own purposes,” he told the commissioners.
Finney owns a 1.66-acre strip of woodland that fronts Route 611, across from Ocean City’s municipal airport. He bought the land about three years ago for $125,000 and hopes to build a new office for his technology services firm, TR Group, which now leases space in a West Ocean City shopping center.
The conflict boiled down to how big a landowner can build based on zoning. Worcester County’s C-2 zoning allows heavier general commercial uses, like big-box retail, fast food restaurants, and bowling alleys. C-1 zoning is for neighborhood-scale projects, where buildings are limited to a smaller footprint and less density.
Finney’s attorney, Hugh Cropper, told the commissioners they sought a C-2 zoning designation because the development parameters were easier.
“C-1 is a heavier lift.”
He also said any construction on Finney’s property would be “challenging” – with obstacles like dense foliage, a narrow building envelope, nontidal wetlands, and wide setbacks. Plumbing would be tough because the site has limited septic availability and no public sewer connections.
It means that not only residential structures could be ruled out, but busy commercial properties like gas stations or convenience stores would be impractical to build here, Cropper told the commissioners.
“He can have a long narrow building with the parking up behind it. We can make it work,” he said. “Otherwise, it’s going to look just like it looks 10 years from now. You got a guy who wants to utilize a perfect piece of property for this.”
At least two commissioners were ready to deny the zoning request outright.
Commissioner Eric Fiori, whose district includes the property, said the area is skewing more residential over commercial lately, and he’s not in favor of spot rezoning.
“I would love to see the property be able to be used,” he said, “but in this situation, it doesn’t fit the character of the neighborhood.”
Fiori made a motion to deny the request, which Commissioner Jim Bunting seconded.
“If there is a zoning change, it opens up everything that’s allowed in a C-2 zone,” said Bunting (District 6, Bishopville), adding he believed agricultural zoning was still the most appropriate zoning for the property.
But before the commissioners could vote, Cropper offered to amend the request to C-1 zoning instead, which would require another by the county’s planning commission and a fresh notice of a public hearing.
The commissioners ultimately agreed to table the request outright on a motion from Commissioner Joe Mitrecic. This halted any vote to approve or deny the rezoning.
Cropper said his client would revise his rezoning request and send it back to the county’s planning commission.
Buas declares candidacy for OC Council special election
Former mayoral candidate, town councilman in the running for 2-year position
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Feb. 20, 2026) Former councilman and local attorney Peter Buas has announced his intent to run for an open seat on the Ocean City Council.
With the city set to hold a special election April 21 to fill the vacancy created by former councilman Tony DeLuca’s resignation, Buas issued a news release Tuesday announcing his plans to run when the filing process opens. He is the first to declare his candidacy for the two-year’s left on DeLuca’s four-year term.
“Ocean City works best when leadership is focused and forward-looking,” he said. “Residents, businesses, and Town employees deserve clear direction and thoughtful decisionmaking. That requires a long-term perspective and consistent followthrough.”
Earlier this month, days after his residency was publicly challenged in a special meeting, Councilman Tony DeLuca stepped down from the dais, setting in motion a 90-day window to fill the vacancy through a special election.
Buas, who served a term on the Ocean City Council from 2020 to 2024, is now seeking the chance to return to public office, citing his commitment “to serve Ocean City’s families, residents, property owners, and small businesses through focused leadership, responsible long-range planning, and disciplined execution that protects the Town’s quality of life.”
Buas’s foray into municipal politics began in 2020, when he secured the most votes in the November election to gain a seat on the council. In 2024, he faced off against incumbent Rick Meehan in the first contested mayoral election in six years and came up 192 votes short.
A lifelong resident who grew up working in his family’s local businesses, Buas is now raising a family of his own in the resort while practicing real estate and business law at Williams, Moore, Shockley & Harrison, LLP.
In this next election, he said he will be campaigning on public safety, capital improvements, infrastructure investment, fiscal responsibility, and strategic planning.
“This town has shaped my life,” Buas said. “It’s my home, where I’ve built a career and am raising my family. I’ve had the privilege of serving
before, and I am ready to serve again.”
Prior to DeLuca’s resignation, only one candidate – Billy Apostolou –had announced his candidacy for this year’s general election, in which the mayor’s seat and three other council seats will be up for grabs. On Facebook last week, he said he intended to continue running for a four-year term in November.
“I look forward to my turn in the November 3 election and wish the best of luck to those who decide to enter the special election for the current vacant city council seat,” Apostolou wrote.
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ENTERTAINMENT
Local investors buy Snow Hill inn, plan to reopen this year
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Feb. 20, 2026) A Civil War-era property in downtown Snow Hill is set to reopen under new ownership, as a local group of investors plan to redevelop the former River House Inn as a boutique inn, French restaurant, and high-end wedding venue later this year.
“It just needs a lot of love,” said Catherine Casto, one of the partners and a Snow Hill native. “It hasn't been really updated in a long time. We want to maintain the historic charm of the house and just bring in all the luxury amenities to make it a really nice upscale lodging destination.”
Catherine and her husband Darren Casto are partnering with Jeff and Tammie Faille, founders of The Street Kitchen in Berlin, to take over the 2.15acre property and rechristen it as the Cypress River Inn & Spa.
She expects they’ll settle on the purchase by the end of the month. Renovations to the main house – a 6,743-square-foot Gothic Revival mansion built in 1864 – are planned over the next few months, with a late spring opening targeted.
Their vision is a 10-room venue anchored by a destination restaurant, helmed by Jeff Faille, a French-trained
chef with culinary experience in local restaurants like Fager’s Island and the Atlantic Hotel.
Once they install a commercial kitchen, Faille will open a bistro with daily breakfast and lunch service. On the weekends, he’ll open as Chateau La Mere, offering a French fine dining menu.
While the “spa” part of the venue will start small, Casto plans to grow it into a full-service med spa in a year or two, possibly in its own separate building on the property.
Tammie Fallie already runs the restaurant and catering at Berlin Street Kitchen. She and her husband had talked for years about whether they wanted to open their own B&B as part of their retirement.
Now, Tammie is preparing to take on a new role – as general manager for Cypress River Inn, with her hands in everything from bookkeeping to wedding planning.
“We like the way they run their business and they like the way we run our business, so the partnership is exciting,” she said. “We’re all on the same page. It’s exciting to be able to work with your friends and know their business ethics.”
The future Cypress River Inn could bring dozens of new jobs to Snow Hill.
Owners to add restaurant, spa
Between lodging, restaurant, and maintenance needs, Casto estimates the operation will need as many as 50 new employees.
Buying and redeveloping the River House Inn wasn’t always the game plan. At first, Chef Faille had simply asked the Castos to partner with him to open a new French eatery.
“I laughed at him,” Casto said. “I said, ‘We are way too busy. I have no interest in running a restaurant. That's not gonna happen.’”
Not only is Casto a full-time obstetrician-gynecologist, she’s also the site manager for Castle Farm, her family’s other wedding venue she runs with her husband, a master furniture craftsman, and two sons.
Castle Farm sits on 1,800 acres outside Snow Hill, part of the same sprawling tract that’s been in her family for 340 years, beginning with a colonial-era sheepskin land grant.
It was that same link to her lineage that made the opportunity to acquire the inn extra special.
The very next day, Casto learned that the inn would soon be listed for sale. She called back Chef Faille and suggested he pursue the property, as both an inn and a restaurant. His partnership offer stood. “Buy it with us!” he asked. Again, she declined.
Another day passed. Casto was telling an aunt about the River House Inn being
listed on the market. The aunt shared a historical connection – a record that proved how an ancestor named Samuel Johnson had once owned the River House Inn property.
“I said, that's the Samuel Johnson that owned my farm!” she recalled. “I started looking into the history, and called (Jeff) and said – let's buy it.”
“I wasn't really planning to own a restaurant and an inn,” she added. “When I knew that history, it really spoke to me. I felt like bringing it back into the Johnson family was just meant to be.”
Restoration will include fixes to historic elements like brick walkways and outdoor spaces while modernizing amenities. Three cottages on site will be upgraded with king beds. Inside, multiple parlors will be converted into a single living area.
Casto is also eager to replace a lost landmark: a towering willow that stood for decades on the banks of the Pocomoke River behind the inn. Felled by a former innkeeper, the tree had long been the locals’ go-to spot for special occasion portraits.
“The first thing I want to do is find the largest willow tree I can,” she said, “and replant it for the town of Snow Hill. When I was in high school, 45 years ago, we would go for our prom photos. Everybody would do engagement photos there. We want to give that back to the town.”
PHOTO COURTESY ANDREW NOCK
A new ownership group is planning to extensively renovate Snow Hill’s historic River House Inn and reopen this year as the Cypress River Inn & Spa.
Snow Hill finds buyer for downtown firehouse
Town Council approves sale at $300,000, 30-day study period to begin at property
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Feb. 20, 2026) Snow Hill’s Town Council voted to sell its former firehouse for $300,000 to a buyer who plans to convert the building into an events space, advancing plans to redevelop the vacant downtown landmark.
Deborah Wayland, of Eastern Shore Fine Events, made the offer on the 75-year-old Green Street property, according to Town Manager Rick Pollitt. Once that sale paperwork is finalized, she’ll have a 30-day study period to conduct due diligence on the property.
The council also will have to authorize an ordinance to approve the sale, which will be brought forth next month, Pollitt added.
At a standing-room-only Town Council meeting on Feb. 11, Councilmembers Aaron Lumpkins and Margaret Ann Fletcher voted to proceed with the sale, while Councilman Eddie Lee abstained. The council had previously tabled the decision Jan. 13.
Lumpkins, who made the motion to accept the offer, called it “the best value for the town” and said a new steward of the building could bring more foot traffic downtown.
“We need to focus on small, sustainable growth,” he said at the meeting. “We’re not in a financial position where we can turn away any kind of mechanism for growth and to in-
crease the coffers of our town.”
Despite his abstention, Lee stressed that he remains a staunch supporter of economic development for the downtown.
“For Snow Hill to thrive and to be what we want it to be, it cannot fall or rest on the sale of one building. The firehouse is a strategic centerpiece for Snow Hill,” he said.
Fletcher said she would have liked to see the property garner a higher price.
Realtor Clint Bickford said the buyer plans to use the space for small events and storage, while also being open to leasing back space to the town for its own events and storage purposes, according to minutes of the council’s Jan. 13 meeting.
The two-story firehouse includes three garage bays, office space, and meeting rooms. It served for decades as home to Snow Hill’s volunteer fire company, which relocated outside of downtown in 2002. After that, Snow Hill’s police department called the building home for the 23 years before relocating in September.
‘I don’t think I’ve ever seen that level of community involvement.’
Town Manager Rick Pollitt
Pollitt said support for the sale was “overwhelming,” and that community positivity has brought momentum to the town’s push to lure more commercial businesses downtown.
Snow Hill listed the firehouse last June for $325,000. The town had declared the 13,470-square-foot building to be surplus property in 2023. Officials decided to sell the property once it became clear how costly it would be to bring the 75-year-old building up to code.
Any buyer would have to make numerous improvements like electrical upgrades, roof repair, and installing a sprinkler system.
“The sentiment from the public, at least what was expressed, was almost unanimously in favor,” he said. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen that level of community involvement. Not just at the hearing – calls, emails, conversations around town. This really captured the excitement of a good deal of the community, and I’m just so glad to see it moving in that direction.”
Mayor Janet Simpson said she loved seeing a full house at a council meeting – and urged residents to keep up the enthusiasm.
“This is the way democracy works,” she said following the vote. “Your voice has been heard tonight. I commend all of you for taking part.”
signs, or successors in right title and interest
All persons that have or claim to have any interest in the property described as Item No. 30, Account No. 10-379059, Property description BOAT SLIP 26 14TH ST & BAY HARBOUR ISLAND CM, Deed Reference: 3570/192, Assessed to Cindy L Naylor In the Circuit Court For Worcester County State of Maryland Case No.: C-23-CV-25-000332
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in and to the following property, lying and being situate in Worcester County, Maryland, sold by the Collector of Taxes for Worcester County and State of Maryland, to the Plaintiff in this proceeding, known as Boat Slip No. 26, 14th St & Bay, Harbour Island CM, being Account No. 10-379059, assessed to Cindy L Naylor with deed reference: 3570/192.
The Complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for the redemption if the property have not been paid. It is thereupon this 28th of January, 2026, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, ORDERED, That notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this order in some newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County once a week for 3 successive weeks, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 30th day of March, 2026, and redeem the property described above and answer the Complaint or thereafter a final judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property, and vesting in the plaintiff a title, free and clear of all encumbrances.
Beau H. Oglesby Judge, Circuit Court for Worcester County True Copy
Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD
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COATES, COATES, & COATES, P.A.
RAYMOND D. COATES JR., ESQ. 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21824
NOTICE
TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 21004
NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Register of Wills court of Lehigh County, Pennsylvania appointed (1) Melissa J. Link, 30th S. 25th Street, Allentown, PA 18104; (2) Barry H. Westgate, 4 Epping Ct., Somerset, NJ 08873-4743; (3) Jessica E. Zambelli, 4474 Farview Ct., Emmaus, PA 18049-5261 as the Executors of the Estate of Donna L. Westgate who died on July 06, 2021 domiciled in Pennsylvania, USA.
The name and address of the
Maryland resident agent for service of process is (1) Raymond D. Coates Jr., 6200 Coastal Hwy., Ste. 300, Ocean City, MD 21842-6698; (2) Raymond D. Coates Jr., 6200 Coastal Hwy., Ste. 300, Ocean City, MD 21842-6698; (3) Raymond D. Coates Jr., 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 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.
(1) Melissa J. Link (2) Bary H. Westgate
(3) Jessica E. Zambelli Foreign Personal Representatives
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: February 05, 2026
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B. RANDALL COATES, ESQ. COATES, COATES, & COATES 204 WEST GREEN STREET, P.O. BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of WILLIAM F. WEST, JR. Estate No. 21003 Notice is given that LINDA W. WEST whose address is 6446 AYRES LN. RD., SNOW HILL, MD 21863-4102 was on JANUARY 28,2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of WILLIAM F. WEST, JR. who died on NOVEMBER 11, 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 28th day of July, 2026
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 28th day of July, 2026
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned per-
sonal 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-2/5/3t
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20986 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF HERBERT GLENN HALLER
Notice is given that Carol Harting Haller, 10326 Derby Dr., Laurel, MD 20723-5736, was on January 20, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Herbert Glenn Haller who died on January 05, 2026, 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 20th day of July, 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 20th day of July, 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.
Carol Harting
Haller
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: February 5, 2026
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Melinda Ragusa
1937 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd Annapolis, MD 21409 vs. Michael John Cramer 12107 Angler Road Ocean City, MD 21842 Circuit Court for Anne Arundel County Case No.: C-02-FM-24-004583
NOTICE
Melinda Ragusa, has filed a petition & motion entitled Petition for Contempt and Motion to Enforce in which she is seeking Contempt and Monetary Damages. Notice is hereby issued by the Circuit Court for Anne Arundel County, Maryland that the relief sought in the aforementioned petition & motion may be granted unless cause be shown to the contrary.
Michael Cramer is to file a response to the petition and motion on or before MARCH 2, 2026. Failure to file a response within the time allowed may result in a judgment by default or the granting of the relief sought.
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Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland
PROPOSAL SOLICITATION
P03-26 – 94th Street Court Fencing Installation
The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the 94th Street Court Fencing Installation and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.
Proposal Documents for the 94th Street Court Fencing Installation 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 Proposals. 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-Proposal Meeting will be held on TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 17TH, 2026 AT 10:00AM EST, AT THE LITTLE SALISBURY PARK, 94TH STREET, BAYSIDE, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842. The Last Day for Questions will be on MONDAY, MARCH 2ND, 2026, AT 4:00PM EST. Addendum will be posted by close of business on TUESDAY, MARCH 3RD, 2026. Sealed Proposal Documents are due no later than THURSDAY, MARCH 12TH, 2026, BY 4:00PM EST. Proposal submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the PROCUREMENT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, ON FRIDAY, MARCH 13TH, 2026, AT 9:00AM EST. Proposals are to be submitted to the Procurement Office located at 214 65th Street, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (P03-26 – 94th Street Court Fencing Installation) must be noted on the outside of the package.
Late Proposal 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-2/12/5t
HUGH CROPPER IV, ESQ 9927 STEPHEN DECATUR HWY., SUITE F12
OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21014 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JOHN B. LYNCH JR.
Notice is given that William M. Lynch, 6315 South Point Rd., Berlin, MD 21811-2632, was on February 05, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of John B. Lynch Jr. who died on January 30, 2026, 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 5th day of August, 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 5th day of August, 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.
William M. Lynch 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: February 12, 2026
Call: 410-723-6397
Fax: 410-723-6511
or E-mail:
legals@octodaydispatch.com
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.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-2/12/3t
REENA J. PATEL ESQ. LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MOUNT HERMON RD., STE. B SALISBURY, MD 21804-5303
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20993 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF CHRISTINE LORRAINE BIZUKIEWICZ
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KURT M MUELLER ESQ
THE LAW OFFICE OF KURT M. MUELLER, ESQ.
600 WASHINGTON AVE STE 301 TOWSON, MD 21204-3916
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of THEODORA ALICE ROZZANO Estate No. 21010 Notice is given that MARK ALLEN RUGGIERI whose address is 14 36TH ST UNIT 11 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-8134 was on FEBRUARY 05, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of THEODORA ALICE ROZZANO who died on SEPTEMBER 11, 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 5th day of AUGUST, 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 5th day of AUGUST, 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-
Notice is given that Stanley Bizukiewicz, 5136 Pine Tree Ln., Pocono Summit, PA 18346-7726, was on January 21, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Christine Lorraine Bizukiewicz who died on December 17, 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 21st day of July, 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 21st day of July, 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.
Stanley Bizukiewicz 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: February 12, 2026
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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of WILLIAM RUSSELL SNYDER Estate No. 21019 Notice is given that WENDY REBECCA SNYDER whose address is 10110 TIPPERARY RD., PARKVILLE, MD 21234-1138 was on FEBRUARY 06, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of WILLIAM RUSSELL SNYDER who died on DECEMBER 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 6th day of AUGUST, 2026
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 6th day of AUGUST, 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
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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of FRANCES VICTORIA CUMBERLAND Estate No. 21018 Notice is given that DANIELLE LORI LONG whose address is 662 FERN ST., WEST PALM BEACH, FL 33401-5712 was on FEBRUARY 06, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of FRANCES VICTORIA CUMBERLAND who died on FEBRUARY 01, 2026 with a
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 6th day of AUGUST, 2026. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 6th day of AUGUST, 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-2/12/3t
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of SANDRA ANN OHARA Estate No. 20918 Notice is given that LISA ANN LOGIN whose address is 914 MIDWAY LN., SEAFORD, DE 19973-1126 was on FEBRUARY 05, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of SANDRA ANN OHARA who died on NOVEMBER 07, 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 5th day of AUGUST, 2026
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 5th day of AUGUST, 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
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DANIEL C. CONKLING, ESQ. 2756 BAYSIDE BEACH ROAD PASADENA, MD 21122
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of LAURA JANE PAYTON Estate No. 21021 Notice is given that DANIEL C CONKLING whose address is 2756 BAYSIDE BEACH RD PASADENA, MD 21122-3601 was on FEBRUARY 09, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of LAURA JANE PAYTON who died on JANUARY 02, 2026 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 9th day of AUGUST, 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 9th day of AUGUST, 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-2/12/3t
B. RANDALL COATES ESQ
COATES, COATES, & COATES 204 WEST GREEN STREET P O BOX 293
SNOW HILL, MD 21863
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of LAWRENCE ALLWIN DONOWAY AKA: LAWRENCE ALLWIN DONOWAY JR Estate No. 21015 Notice is given that ROSE RUSSELL DONOWAY whose address is 6846 SENECA DR SNOW HILL, MD 21863-3354 was on FEBRUARY 05, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of LAWRENCE ALLWIN DONOWAY who died on JANUARY 22, 2026 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 5th day of AUGUST, 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 5th day of AUGUST, 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-2/12/3t
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110, Zoning, of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be conducted by the
Planning and Zoning Commission in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on:
TUESDAY, March 3, 2026
At 7:00 PM
To consider amending Chapter 110, entitled Zoning, Section 110-2 entitled Definitions, to add a definition related to the outdoor display of merchandise; and Section 110884, entitled Outdoor Display of Merchandise Standards for Properties Fronting on Atlantic Avenue (boardwalk) to establish regulations for businesses wishing to display merchandise outdoors along properties fronting Atlantic Avenue (boardwalk). Businesses would be required to obtain an annual display permit through an application process. The ordinance addresses general standards for all outdoor displays and specific requirements for f A-Frame signs, banners, ancillary services and restaurants.
APPLICANT: PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION (PZ FILE #25-14100001)
No oral or written testimony will be accepted after the close of the public hearing.
Public hearings that are not completed at one meeting may be continued without additional advertised notice provided the Commission Chairperson announces that the hearing will be continued and gives persons in attendance an opportunity to sign up for written notice of the additional hearing dates.
For further information concerning this public hearing, please contact the Department of Planning and Community Development, Room 242, City Hall, 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842. Phone 410-289-8855.
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
JOSEPH P. WILSON, CHAIRPERSON MAUREEN HOWARTH, ESQ., ATTORNEY OCD-2/12/3t
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be conducted by the Planning and Zoning Commission in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on:
TUESDAY, March 3, 2026
At 7:00 PM
To consider amending Chapter 66, entitled “Signs,” of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, specifically Section 66-2, entitled “Definitions;” Section 66-8, entitled “Size;” Section 66-10, entitled “Obstructions and Traffic Hazards;” Section 66-12, entitled “Temporary
Signs;” and Section 66-16, entitled “Exemptions.”
The proposed ordinance clarifies and updates sign regulations, including definitions for various sign types such as banners, fence signs, ground signs, and roof signs,. The ordinance further updates standards related to maximum sign size, visibility and traffic safety, temporary sign limitations, and exemptions, including provisions applicable to A-frame signs on the Boardwalk.
APPLICANT: PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION (PZ FILE #25-14100001)
No oral or written testimony will be accepted after the close of the public hearing.
Public hearings that are not completed at one meeting may be continued without additional advertised notice provided the Commission Chairperson announces that the hearing will be continued and gives persons in attendance an opportunity to sign up for written notice of the additional hearing dates.
For further information concerning this public hearing, please contact the Department of Planning and Community Development, Room 242, City Hall, 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842. Phone 410-289-8855.
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
JOSEPH P. WILSON, CHAIRPERSON MAUREEN HOWARTH, ESQ., ATTORNEY OCD-2/12/3t
NOTICE
OF PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING AMENDMENT TO COUNTY ROADS INVENTORY, WORCESTER COUNTY
Notice is hereby given pursuant to Section 1-204 of the Public Works Article of the Code of Public Local Laws of Worcester County, Maryland, that the County Commissioners of Worcester County will hold a Public Hearing on March 3, 2026, at 10:40 a.m. in the County Commissioners' Meeting Room, Room 1101-Government Center One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863
The purpose of the hearing is to receive public comments on the proposed inclusion into the Inventory of County Roads of the following public road, which is located within the Beech Tree Subdivision on August 19, 2025, and found the road met County specifications. Northeast of Snug Harbor Road, in the Third Tax District of Worcester County, Maryland, as shown on Worcester County Tax Map 33 as P/O Parcels 298. 1. Beech Tree Road ( 0.07 Miles, 50’ ROW, and 22’ Road Width)
Copies of the plat for the above referenced road are filed with the Department of Public Works - Roads Division, 6113 Timmons Road, Snow Hill, Maryland, and are available during regular business hours (Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM, except holidays) for inspection.
The public is invited to attend the hearing and submit comments.
THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
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MAYOR & COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL, MARYLAND, NOTICE OF APPROVED CHARTER AMENDMENT RESOLUTION 2025-08
Re: Annexation
Notice is hereby given by the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill that Charter Resolution 2025-08, was adopted on February 10, 2025 after holding a public hearing on January 20, 2025. A fair summary of the resolution is as follows:
Charter Amendment Resolution 2025-08 ANNEXED CERTAIN LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN AND amended THE TOWN OF SNOW HILL CHARTER SECTION 3 ENTITLED “DESCRIPTION OF CORPORATE BOUNDARIES” BY ADDING SAID CERTAIN LANDS TO THE CORPORATE BOUNDARIES OF THE TOWN OF SNOW HILL, specifically the Town of Snow Hill’s water well located on Coulbourne Lane, Tax Map 63, Parcel 177; the Snow Hill Middle School and Cedar Chapel School (Tax Map 201, Parcel 1708); Snow Hill Elementary School (Tax Map 63, Parcel 144); 410 Coulbourne Lane (Tax Map 201, Parcel 1711, Part of Lot 1, approximately .027 acres) to correct specifically that the entirety of Lot 1 located at 410 Coulbourne Lane be located in the Town of Snow Hill municipal limits, and Coulbourne Lane between Market Street and the Town of Snow Hill municipal limits.
A complete text of the passed resolution 2025—08 is available for review at Town Hall, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, Maryland, 21863.
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D NICOLE GREEN ESQ
D. NICOLE GREEN, PA 300 EAST MAIN STREET SALISBURY, MD 21801
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of JERDEANE S WATERS
AKA: JERDEANE K SMITH WATERS Estate No. 21023 Notice is given that NKEMJIKA WATERS whose address is 6161 DUCKWEED CT SALISBURY, MD 218018456 was on FEBRUARY 12, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JERDEANE S WATERS who died on APRIL 11, 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 represen-
tative 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 12th day of AUGUST, 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 12th day of AUGUST, 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-2/19/3t
PUBLIC NOTICE
The Mayor and City Council, a public community transit service provider in Ocean City, Maryland, is offering the opportunity for a public hearing to provide citizens a forum to present views on the following proposals:
Elimination of Twelve (12) Underutilized Bus Stops
The goal of this proposal is to enhance the bus service by reducing unnecessary stops, improving both travel times and bus frequency (“headways”). However, if any individual person or entity feels they will be negatively impacted by the removal of any of the listed stops, please provide your feedback to Transportation Manager Robert Shearman, Jr. via the below listed means. All responses will be given due consideration.
A Public Hearing will be held upon request. Requests for a Public Hearing must be in writing and will be received until 4 p.m. Monday, March 23, 2026. Requests for a Pub-
lic Hearing and/or other written comments should be sent to the following address and clearly marked:
Ocean City Transportation
Attn: Transportation Manager, Robert Shearman, Jr.
224 65th Street
Ocean City, Maryland 21842
Written comments can also be emailed to: Rob Shearman Jr. at rshearman@oceancitymd.gov If requested, a Public Hearing will be held: Monday, April 6, 2026
6:00 p.m.
City Hall Council Chambers
301 North Baltimore Avenue
Ocean City, Maryland 21842 If special assistance is required at the Public Hearing contact Ocean City Transportation, Administrative Coordinator, at 410-723-2174 prior to 4 p.m. Monday, March 23, 2026. OCD-2/19/5t
MARIANNA BATIE ESQ. BATIE LAW LLC 9748 STEPHEN DECATUR HWY., STE. 112
OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-9358 SMALL ESTATE
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21025 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ROSE MARIE LAFOND
Notice is given that Charlotte Louise LaFond, 9005 Horseshoe Ln., Newark, MD 21841-2005, was on February 12, 2026 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Rose Marie LaFond who died on January 24, 2026, 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.
Charlotte Louise LaFond Personal Representative
Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott
One W. Market Street
Room 102 - Court House
Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074
Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest
Date of publication: February 19, 2026
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Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland
PROPOSAL
SOLICITATION
P04-26 – Ocean City Boardwalk Pedicab Franchise Services
The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Ocean City Boardwalk Pedicab Franchise Services and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents. Proposal Documents for the Ocean City Boardwalk Pedicab Franchise Services 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) 7236643 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 Proposals. 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-Proposal Meeting is not applicable for this Request for Proposal. The Last Day for Questions will be on FRIDAY, MARCH 6TH, 2026, AT 4:00PM EST. Addendum will be posted by close of business on MONDAY, MARCH 9TH, 2026. Sealed Proposal Documents are due no later than MONDAY, MARCH 16TH, 2026, BY 4:00PM EST. Proposal submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the PROCUREMENT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, ON TUESDAY, MARCH 17TH, 2026, AT 1:00PM EST. Proposals are to be submitted to the Procurement Office located at 214 65th Street, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (P04-26 – Ocean City Boardwalk Pedicab Franchise Services) must be noted on the outside of the package.
Late Proposal Documents will not be accepted.
Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the So-
Matt Perry Procurement Manager
Town of Ocean City, Maryland OCD-2/19/4t
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS AND APPEALS
TOWN OF OCEAN CITY,
MARYLAND
Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 2 Administration, Article IV, Division 5 of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland hereinafter referred to as Code, same being the Board of Adjustments and Appeals Ordinance for Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearing will be conducted in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland.
Wednesday, March 4, 2026
At 3:00 PM
BAAV 26-014 - A request has been submitted for a variance from TOC Code Section 38-71 (a)(5) Minimum Elevation Requirements, to reduce the minimum 3’ freeboard elevation requirement above the AE-5 flood zone by approximately 1.0’ for substantial improvement of an existing single-family house, and to match existing the lowest floor elevation of the primary structure. Locally known as 731 LAUREL AVE parcel number 118-07-68B Lot 31 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
Owner: Alison & Michael DeMartin
Applicant: Tamir Ezzat
BAAV 26-015 - A request has been submitted for a variance from TOC Code Section 38-71 (a)(3) Minimum Elevation Requirements, to reduce the minimum 3’ freeboard elevation requirement above the Ocean Block X flood zone by approximately 1.7’ for substantial improvement to an existing single-family house, with lateral and vertical additions. Locally known as 12506 ASSAWOMAN DR parcel number 117-24-6099A Lot 15 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland
Owner: Austin & Kelsea Scates
Applicant: Bradley Construction Company, Inc.
BAAV 26-016 - A request has been submitted for a variance from TOC Code Section 38-71 (a)(5) Minimum Elevation Requirements, to reduce the minimum 3’ freeboard elevation requirement above the AE-5 flood zone by approximately 1.0’ for substantial improvement of an existing single-family house, and to match existing the lowest floor elevation of the primary structure for a lateral addition. Locally known as 102 WINTER HARBOR DR parcel number 116-20-1567A Lot 65 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland
Owner: William & Eileen Voigt
Applicant: Bradley Construction Company, Inc.
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MARIANNA BATIE ESQ
LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MOUNT HERMON RD STE B
SALISBURY, MD 21804-5303
SMALL ESTATE
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of ARMIN ULRICH KUDER Estate No. 21026 Notice is given that MARGARET ANNE TROSSEN whose address is 10317 QUARTER DECK LN BERLIN, MD 21811-2760 was on FEBRUARY 12, 2026 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of ARMIN ULRICH KUDER who died on JANUARY 08, 2026 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 claims 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.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-2/19/1t
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20879
TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF VICTOR HENRY BIRCH
Notice is given that Susan Cropper Birch, 12217 Sinepuxent Rd., Berlin, MD 21811-2612, was on February 09, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Victor Henry Birch who died on September 22, 2025, with a will. There was a
prior small estate proceeding.
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 9th day of August, 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 9th day of August, 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.
Susan Cropper Birch 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: February 19, 2026
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NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of CAROL ANN HAFER Estate No. 20314 Notice is given that RICHARD EDWARD HAFER whose address is 9916 GOLF COURSE RD., TRLR. 1, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-9516 was on FEBRUARY 10, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of CAROL ANN HAFER who died on JULY 18, 2024 with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 10th day of AUGUST, 2026
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills
on or before the 10th day of AUGUST, 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
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SMALL
ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of ROSEMARIE ANN GIAQUINTO Estate No. 21020 Notice is given that ROSANNA NICOLETOS whose address is 13121 MUIRFIELD LN., BERLIN, MD
21811-3374 was on FEBRUARY 09, 2026 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of ROSEMARIE ANN GIAQUINTO who died on JANUARY 28, 2026 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.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of
Wills for Worcester County
ONE W MARKET STREET
ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE
SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074
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PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110, Zoning, of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be conducted by the Planning and Zoning Commission in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on:
TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2026
At 6:30 pm
Pursuant to the provisions of Article II, Section 5, Conditional Uses, a request has been filed under the provisions of Section 110-514(22), Uses permitted by Conditional Use in the LC-1, Local Commercial, Zoning District, to permit an interior tenant fit-out with an amusement use that the Mayor and City Council may approve in keeping with uses specifically permitted in the LC-1 district. The site of the request is described as Tax Map 118, Grid 23,
Parcel 7625A and as Building 2 of the Bayside Plaza Condo Plat. It is further described as being on the southwest corner of Coastal Highway and 138th Street and is locally known as a unit within the Bayside Plaza Shopping Center located as 13725 Coastal Highway, Unit 12B, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
APPLICANT: MAZE GAME, LLC (PZ FILE #26-12100001)
No oral or written testimony will be accepted after the close of the public hearing.
Public hearings that are not completed at one meeting may be continued without additional advertised notice provided the Commission Chairperson announces that the hearing will be continued and gives persons in attendance an opportunity to sign up for written notice of the additional hearing dates.
For further information concerning this public hearing, please contact the Department of Planning and Community Development, Room 242, City Hall, 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842. Phone 410-289-8855.
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
JOSEPH P. WILSON, CHAIRPERSON
MAUREEN HOWARTH, ESQ. ATTORNEY
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NOTICE
OF PUBLIC HEARING MAYOR & COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL, MARYLAND
Tuesday, March 10, 2026 at 7:00 PM
Notice is hereby given that the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill, Maryland will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. to provide information on the progress of a project partially funded in FY25 under the Maryland Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program. CDBG is a federally funded program designed to assist governments with activities directed toward neighborhood and housing revitalization, economic development, and improved community facilities and services.
Town of Snow Hill-Comprehensive Plan Revisions (MD-25-CD-6) is the grant funded project. The public hearing will be held during the regularly scheduled Mayor and Council meeting held at Worcester County Government Center, Boardroom, Room 1102, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland, 21863
The public is cordially invited to attend and offer comments. For further information concerning this public hearing, please contact the Town Manager’s Office, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, Maryland, 21863, #410-632-2080.
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Love festival coming this weekend
(Feb. 20, 2026) If you’re searching for the best craft beer festival on the Eastern Shore, look no further than Love on Tap at Seacrets on Saturday, Feb. 21, from 1-5 p.m.
Early birds get a free T-shirt from 12 p.m. The first 750 individuals from 25 p.m. get a commemorative glass. Presented by Shore Craft Beer, the event is an all you can drink.
The wildly popular Ocean City craft beer festival will feature an unforgettable lineup of local breweries, regional powerhouses, limited releases, and innovative non-alcoholic options.
Whether you’re a hophead chasing hazy IPAs, a stout lover craving rich chocolate notes, or a cider fan looking for something crisp and refreshing, Love on Tap 2026 delivers one of the most diverse craft beverage experiences in Maryland with more than 40 beers, ciders and specialty beverages on tap.
Here’s a look at the standout breweries pouring at this year’s festival: Burley Oak Brewing Company: Festival highlights include Raspberry White Chocolate JREAM, Peanut Butter Brownie, Fuzzy Slippers (8.9% Stout), Juice Jam IPA and Refresh, a non-alcoholic mushroom adaptogenic elixir
Fin City Brewing: Bringing coastal vibes and Ocean City flavor in Reel Haze (Hazy IPA), Pitboss and Pure Lure
Evolution Craft Brewing Company:
A pioneer of Delmarva craft brewing, Evolution will feature Mocha Stout, Bury Beer and The Hive.
Dogfish Head Craft Brewery: Featuring Czech-Spresso, Grateful Dead Pale Ale, Punkin Ale and Sam Adams American Lite.
DownEast Cider House: For nonbeer lovers, enjoy Blackberry Cider and Original Blend.
Big Truck Brewery Company: Adding regional flair and craft expertise to the lineup.
Independent Brewing Company: Bold flavors and creative twists with Cereal Killer Stout, Velvet Fog IPA and Mint Condition.
Burnish Beer Company: Celebrating Maryland heritage with Corn Hub Corn
Lager, Shine Hazy IPA and Loose Lips Sink Ships (Peanut Butter Stout). Dewey Beer Company: Beach-town energy in every pour of Swishy Pants Hazy IPA, Secret Machine Triple Berry and Pizzetta Italian Pilsner
RAR Brewing: Distinctive brewing style that adds depth and diversity to the festival lineup.
Athletic Brewing Company (Non-Alcoholic Craft Beer): For designated drivers and mindful drinkers, Athletic Brewing offers award-winning non-alcoholic craft beers that taste like the real thing — because they are crafted like the real thing.
Tickets for the event are available at https://shorecraftbeer.ticketspice.com/ love-on-tap-2026
by Steve Green
TThe Adventures of Fatherhood
here is a quiet revolution of awareness happening right now.
In the community circles I travel within, lives are being changed by the growing acceptance of individuals with special needs. More and more people are becoming aware that there is so much to learn from those who experience the world differently. Compassion is growing. Patience is growing. Understanding is growing.
And lately, I feel like I’m witnessing this revolution firsthand in several areas of my life.
One of the places I see it most clearly is through a special needs soccer program Pam and I help run called TOPSoccer through River Soccer Club. I’ve written about it before, but it remains one of the most meaningful experiences in our lives.
TOPSoccer is a recreational soccer program offered in the fall, winter, and spring for individuals with varying disabilities. Each participant is paired with a “buddy,” usually a high school or middle school student, who works alongside them during practices.
In many ways, the program has very little to do with soccer.
Yes, there are balls and goals and jerseys. But that’s just the backdrop. What really happens is connection. It’s about encouragement. It’s about patience. It’s about building trust and friendships that might not otherwise exist. It’s magic.
This winter, there were many weeks when we had just as many buddies as players. One Saturday recently, we had 14 buddies and 14 players. It was perfect.
Some pairs were shooting goals together. Others sat on the floor in a circle, gently rolling the ball back and forth. A few were simply talking, laughing, and enjoying being together.
Our son Carson, 16, who has been part of TOPSoccer for 12 years, is now a buddy himself. He works with an elementary school student with special needs.
Because Carson is nonverbal, watching this bond develop through body language, facial expressions, empathy, and patience is nothing short of amazing.
While the program is happening, Pam and I are usually too busy overseeing
everything to fully soak in the moment. We’re making sure everyone is safe, engaged, and supported. It’s only later, when I look back at photos and videos, that it truly hits me.
And it melts my heart every time.
TOPSoccer has become a tremendous source of pride in my life. Knowing that we are helping create something positive in our community means more to me than I can adequately express.
What makes it even more special is hearing how much it means to the buddies. I know how much it means to the families because we lived it.
Recently, I learned that several of the buddies — including our older son Beckett — referenced their TOPSoccer experiences in their college essays. That stopped me in my tracks. To know that these moments mattered enough to shape how they see themselves and the world is incredibly humbling.
That’s the impact of this revolution.
I see it again through Unified Sports at Stephen Decatur High School, another program I’ve written about in the past.
Carson participates in Unified tennis in the fall, strength and conditioning in the winter, and bocce in the spring. Like TOPSoccer, the true magic is in the partnerships between typical student-athletes and students with special needs. We are so grateful for the coaches who support the efforts.
In tennis and strength and conditioning, about 50 students volunteer their time to work with roughly a dozen special needs students. They show up early. They stay late. They encourage. They support. They include.
They don’t do it for recognition. They do it because it feels right.
As a parent, I often wonder how challenging it must be for others to communicate with Carson. We have spent years in speech therapy. We have worked endlessly to give him a voice. While progress has been made, many obstacles remain. We now believe assistive technology will be his best path to communication.
Everyone knows Carson does not speak in Unified. And yet, the teenagers still talk to him. They include him in conversations. They joke with him. They explain things. They treat him like a teammate — because he is one.
Though he cannot speak, Carson un-
derstands everything. He is incredibly smart. He is socially aware. He knows exactly what’s happening around him.
He simply cannot speak.
He has autism.
That doesn’t mean he deserves anything less than anyone else. He’s just different. And as he gets older, his disability becomes more visible.
And I’m completely fine with that.
There’s no shame in it. Not for him. Not for us.
In fact, I am unbelievably proud of Carson. I want to shine a spotlight on him because of what he overcomes every single day.
Our family has been on a journey of a lifetime raising him. There have been dark times. There were seasons filled with behavioral struggles, frustration, and even moments of fear.
I sometimes allow myself to reflect on those days — not to dwell there — but to appreciate how far we’ve come.
Growth is real. Progress is real. Hope is real. Through it all, I think Carson has gained dignity.
This growing awareness and acceptance of differences means everything to me.
If I could make a living advocating for greater understanding and compassion for individuals with special needs, I would do it in a heartbeat. It has become a true passion. But it’s not just mine and Pam’s.
Beckett, 17, has decided to major in psychology. He wants to work with children with special needs. In his college essay, he wrote that his little brother has been the most influential person in his life.
That’s when you know this revolution has reached your home.
It has shaped our entire family.
Let’s keep it going. Let’s keep choosing empathy over judgment. Inclusion over isolation. Patience over frustration. Love over fear.
This quiet revolution is making our communities stronger, our children better, and our hearts bigger.
Only good can come from that.
And we will all be better for it.
(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.)
OC in winter is a surfing paradise –with the right suit
By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer
(Feb. 20, 2026) “Henry, look at those boys (or girls) in the water in those black suits. Aren’t they cold? For heaven’s sake, it’s the middle of winter.”
This statement brings up the possibility of this area being a winter surfing paradise. Granted it’s a rather far- fetched notion but there is evidence to support it. In a phrase, the entire area is wide open.
There are no restrictions as in the summer. Traffic is light or non-existent. Parking is abundant. There is a better chance of swell in the water due to more active winter weather patterns, and fewer, much fewer, participants. Most would think of a winter surfing paradise as a getaway to a warmer water and air environment and yes, that would be a welcoming idea, if only to break up the long winter season. One needs the funds, and even more importantly the time, to be able to embark on such a sojourn, not to mention the responsibilities that the surfer might have to work around.
Another thing to think about would be the very real chance of crowded surf breaks, congested traffic conditions, and the cost of extended travel and lodging.
The last time that I was in Puerto Rico I stopped counting at 200 people in the water at multiple, strung together, extended surf breaks.
Of course, proper equipment is not only necessary but vital. And frequency also helps in the quest to make the most out of the long cold winter. Those who know can understand. For the rest of us a consideration might well be in order.
Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City
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.
■ 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
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Featuring consistent hot steamed crabs, eat in or carryout. The Crab Bag is also an Eastern Shore style seafood house specializing in preparing and serving the biggest and the best blue crabs available. The extensive menu promises something for everyone. Winter hours, Friday-Sunday, open 11 a.m.
■ CRABCAKE FACTORY USA
120th Street, oceanside, Ocean City, 410250-4900, crabcakefactoryusa.com
Full-service family restaurant, carry-out and sports bar. Outside seating available. Menu selections include prime rib, chicken Chesapeake, steamed shrimp, beer battered fish, real Philly cheesesteaks, burgers, and a kids menu. Casual attire, full liquor bar, no reservations. Open Year Round. World-Famous Crabcakes are served all day starting at 8 a.m. and can be packed on ice for you while you are eating breakfast.
■ VISTA ROOFTOP RESTAURANT
13801 Coastal Highway, located in the Fenwick Inn, Ocean City, 410-390-7905, vistarooftopoc.com
$$-$$$ | Full bar
Enjoy a wonderful meal overlooking the ocean and bay. Some of the most unique views in Ocean City. Steaks, seafood, burgers, soups, salads and lite fare. Happy hour, 3-6 p.m. New this year is a boozy brunch Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Live music.
FENWICK ISLAND
■ DIRTY HARRY’S
100 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-539-3020, Beach-net.com/dirtyharrys
$ | Kids’ Menu | Full bar
Don’t let the name fool you, the food is home cooking at its finest. Owned and operated by Ginny Swann and family for 19 years. Popular for the breakfast but getting rave reviews for lunch and dinner, too.
■ NANTUCKETS
Route 1, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-5392607, nantucketsrestaurant.com
Serving the beach great food and spirits for over 30 years. David and Janet Twining will wow you with the finest foods and drinks in the area. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by what one of the coast’s finest dining establishments has in store for guests. Everything here is a house specialty.
■ TWINING’S LOBSTER SHANTY
Closed - Reopens March 11
Rte. 54, Fenwick Island, Del., 302-4362305, twiningshanty.com
Reservations | Kids’ Menu
“A funky little place at the edge of town.” Classic New England fare, lobsters, steaks and burgers. Bird watching and magical sunsets await. Open for lunch and dinner. Reservations are suggested.
WEST OCEAN CITY
■ ASSATEAGUE BAR AND GRILL
9636 Stephen Decatur Highway, West Ocean City 443-664-8158, abarngrill.com
$$ | 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.
Town nixes townhouse driveway amendment
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Feb. 20, 2026) Ocean City officials this week voted down a code change requiring new townhouse construction plans to incorporate a five-foot driveway apron.
On Tuesday, a motion to adopt the code amendment failed, with just two members of the Ocean City Council casting “yes” votes. Those in opposition argued the change would affect townhouse developments and could make parking problems worse.
“I don’t know that adding new rules is a fix,” Councilman John Gehrig said.
Last month, staff presented the council with a favorable recommendation from the Ocean City Planning Commission to require a driveway apron. They noted that resort planners found flaws in new townhouse developments uptown, where the drive aisles were too narrow and created problems for motorists attempting to turn or park.
The proposed change, they said, would require any new townhouse developments on lots wider than 50 feet to have a minimum five-foot apron between a garage door and interior drive aisle. Planners say the added space would give residents more room to maneuver vehicles and load or unload, and give first responders more room to access interior drive aisles.
“What you are really adding is 10 feet to the drive aisle …,” City Manager Terry McGean said this week. “ I see the advantage there. It helps with the turning radius. But I think the bigger advantage is having a full drive aisle still if someone parked there.”
Resident Palmer Gillis, a builder and developer who also serves on the Planning Commission, lent his support for the ordinance this week, arguing that existing interior drive aisles were not functional and did not meet the intent of the code. He called the amendment a simple change that still preserved a developer’s right to maximize townhouse projects.
“I would rather see quality as opposed to quantity,” he said, “and I'd like to see something that supports functionality. So I'm here to support that ordinance to increase the aprons in front of the garages by five foot.”
However, the amendment has been challenged by local developers and their representatives, many of whom came before the planning commission late last year to voice concerns that the new design standard would be challenging to accommodate.
During this week’s council meeting, developer Nolen Graves said he did not believe there was a problem with interior drive aisles, adding that the change could incentivize those in his industry to move away from townhouse projects.
“It's gonna change the style of development again and it's gonna go the other way, which the town did not want …,” he said. “You’ll start to see it go back to the elevated buildings.”
The ordinance passed on first reading earlier this month, in a 4-3 vote. This week, a motion to adopt the amendment on second reading failed in a 2-4 vote, with Gehrig, Councilwoman Carol Proctor, Council Secretary Will Savage and Council President Matt James opposed.
Proctor questioned how the ordinance resolved the issue, while Gehrig said he would not support the ordinance
CROSSWORD
as written. While he acknowledged he did not like the narrow drive aisles in the townhouse developments uptown, he said he did not think an apron requirement worked for all projects.
“We need to address whatever that specific problem is,” he said. “It could be a discussion about building height, it could be a discussion about larger projects – maybe a certain number of units or more has this requirement – or if it goes four stories it has this requirement.”
Gehrig also wondered if the change would encourage more people to park on the driveway apron.
HOROSCOPE
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
You have the cosmic green light to start that major project you’ve been planning or to take a leap in your career, Aries. Trust your intuition —it’s sharper than ever.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
Abundance is knocking, Taurus. Your hard work is translating into tangible rewards, and you may receive unexpected good news regarding finances or resources.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Your mind is sparkling, Gemini, making you the most magnetic person in the room. Use this vibrant energy to connect, share ideas and lead discussions.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Cancer, a feeling of emotional security empowers you to tackle any professional challenge with grace and confidence. You are totally centered right now, so go for it.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, you are radiating charisma this week and attracting positive attention wherever you go. Use this incredible visibility to network or showcase your talents.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
You’ll find great satisfaction in clean, organized work that earns sincere praise this week, Virgo. Your dedication is about to unlock a significant reward. Surprises are in store.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Relationships are the key to your happiness this week, Libra. Expect delightful interactions, smooth negotiations and the forging of beneficial alliances.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
This week is all about your own transformation, Scorpio. You feel a surge of internal power and clarity that allows you to confidently pursue deep, personal goals.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
Your sense of optimism and love for exploration is fully charged, Sagittarius. Even if you can’t take a trip, your mind is open to exciting new philosophies or ideas.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Your professional reputation is soaring, Capricorn. Key figures at your job are recognizing your dedication and leadership. Expect exciting opportunities for advancement.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
Your network is buzzing with opportunities, Aquarius. Collaborative efforts are highly favored, and you’ll find incredible support for your most innovative ideas.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
Pisces, your intuition is a superpower that guides you toward fulfillment and emotional satisfaction this week. Embrace your artistic side and allow your imagination to lead the way.
Fines to double for special events
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Feb. 20, 2026) Fines for Ocean City parking meter violations that occur during special events will double this year.
During Tuesday’s regular meeting, the Ocean City Council passed the second reading of an ordinance that amends the city code to double the $50 fine for parking violations that occur during the eight special events taking place in the municipality this year. Earlier this month, officials identified those 2026 dates.
“This is to double the parking violation fine if the violation occurs during a special event, with dates designated by the resolution passed previously,” City Solicitor Heather Stansbury said.
Last year, the City Council passed several amendments aimed at paid parking and parking enforcement
throughout town. Among those was an ordinance authorizing the city’s newly established parking division to enhance parking and towing penalties for violations that occur during special events and within special event zones.
For example, fines for certain violations, such as parking in a no parking zone, parking at a red curb, and parking on a sidewalk, for example, doubled during special event dates beginning in 2025. Earlier this month, however, city officials revisited the parking regulations with the first reading of an ordinance to double the fine for parking meter violations occurring during special events. They also approved a companion resolution, setting the special event dates for 2026.
Back on the agenda this week, resident Martin Branigan argued the increase could hurt the city, which he said
relied on tourism. He argued for a gradual approach, in which fines only doubled when a person received his or her second violation in a calendar year.
“You really don’t want to alienate people, because there are other places they can go for special events, there are other places they can go for weekends,” he said.
The City Council voted to adopt the code change in a 6-0 vote. Enhanced penalties will apply during Cruisin’ Ocean City (April 30-May 3), OC Air Show (June 13-14), Fourth of July Fireworks (July 4), White Marlin Open (Aug. 3-7), Bike Week/OC Rock and Ride (Sept. 9-13), Oceans Calling (Sept. 2527), Country Calling (Oct. 2-3), and Endless Summer Cruisin’ (Oct. 8-11).
“This isn’t a money grab. This is to encourage compliance,” Council Secretary Will Savage said.
ROOFING BLOWOUT SALE
3 Tab Tamko Roofing Shingles 25 year shingles - $10 a bundle
Colors Available: White • Black • Pastel Green • Weatherwood
• Cedar • Gray Blend • Tweed
Architectural Tamko Heritage II Roofing - $20 a bundle
Colors Available: Old English Pewter • Black • Weatherwood
• Oxford Gray • Rustic Cedar • Rustic Redwood • Virginia Slate
Limited to Stock on Hand – No Returns!
vanishing vanishing OCEAN CITY
With BunK Mann
St. Rose’s Summer Home for Orphans was built by the Sisters of Charity of Washington, D.C., in 1898. It was far outside of city limits at the time (Ocean City ended at 7th Street in that era) and the road to 14th Street was unpaved.
Supplies were delivered by ox cart and horse-drawn wagon and it would be over 30 years before the Boardwalk was extended that far north.
In 1911, the building was sold to the Dominican Fathers of Catholic University and used as a summer home for students preparing for the priesthood. In 1946, the property and land around it was sold again in what was the largest real estate auction in Ocean City history up to that time and the building divided into two attached hotels –the LaGrande and the Broadripple.
The LaGrande was demolished in the March Storm of ’62 and subsequently demolished while the Broadripple was torn down in 2009. Today, the site is vacant as redevelopment plans work through the approval process.
To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com.
courtesy Bill and Kitt Matthews
Things I Like...
By Steve Green
Catching up with a newborn parent
Keeping a secret to pull off a surprise
Laughing and crying at a funeral
Fourth quarters of basketball games
The view looking south from the Inlet
When change turns out to be a blessing
New shoes that feel old
A baby announcement in the mail
A big pot of spaghetti
Grazing over a charcuterie board
Smooth real estate transactions
Photo
Questionnaire and resale package paperwork are key
By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer
(Feb. 20, 2026) For anyone purchasing a property within a condominium or homeowners’ association, two documents often appear during the transaction process: the resale package and the condo questionnaire. Though they may seem similar, each serves a distinct purpose – and both can impact a buyer’s closing costs.
A resale package or HOA/Condo disclosure packet is designed to protect buyers by providing full transparency into the health and operation of the association they will be joining.
This document typically includes the HOA/Condo’s governing documents, financial statements, current budget, insurance information, details about any pending litigation, and an outline of fees the buyer will be responsible for.
It also confirms whether the current homeowner is up to date on dues and assessments. The goal is to ensure that buyers understand exactly what they’re stepping into—financially and operationally—before finalizing their purchase.
In contrast, a condo questionnaire isn’t for the buyer directly; it is for the lender. When a buyer uses mortgage financing, especially with conventional, FHA, or VA loans, the
CONDO Page 57
9am-4pm
& Sun, 11am-3pm
Saturrdday 10:30am-12:30pm 6
12430 Old Bridge Rd., W Weest OC 2BR/2BA
6803 Atlantic Ave #4H, Ocean City1BR/1BA
205 125th St #208B, Ocean City2BR/2BA
oints Reach Price, The Point, Ocean Pines 3BR/2BA
Hileman/Hileman 9167 Old Ocean City Rd, Berlin4BR/2BA
of 2 T Teeam/ Hilema 29 Pinehurst Rd, Ocean Pines4BR/2BASingle
of 2
Opinions
Council still has sports plex plans
Ocean City government still intends to build a sports complex despite this week’s announcement that the City Council will not pursue the purchase of farmland adjacent to Stephen Decatur High School.
As Council President Matt James said, he and the council are fully committed to developing a facility that will enable Ocean City to capitalize on the constantly expanding youth travel sports market.
Although youth participation in organized sports is reportedly declining, that pertains to local leagues and play, not travel teams whose numbers continue to increase, according to multiple industry reports.
As a consequence, people who think the council walked away from the idea earlier this week would be wrong, as the council is only turning away from one piece of property.
Other opportunities will arise, leaving it to the council to produce a majority vote to act. That may have been the problem with the east Berlin parcel, and council support in that instance might have been fragile from the start.
But even if the council had the votes and everything else it needed to acquire that particular piece of property, there was no guarantee that anything beyond the purchase would happen.
Even Ocean City’s primary state partner in this venture, the Maryland Stadium Authority, has excellent borrowing ability, the debt service it’s paying on other major loans, along with the state’s $1.4 billion budget deficit has some legislators calling for reductions in the authority’s spending.
As a result, it’s quite possible that should Ocean City government find a site that suits the sports facility’s needs, and that land can be acquired at a fair price and the project enjoys decent public support, it still could be quite a while before anything beyond that acquisition happens.
Those picklebrawlers
Not that anyone needs reminding, but further proof that the world has become stranded at the corner of Wacky and Weird presented itself this week when I logged into my computer news service.
NEWS
EDITOR STEWART DOBSON; EXECUTIVE EDITOR STEVE GREEN
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
By Stewart Dobson
BAM! There it was — the British police had arrested Andrew, the royal formerly known as Prince, on charges that he spilled confidential trade information to his pal, cesspoolian slime lord, Jeffrey Epstein, during his stint as Britain’s trade envoy to the U.S.
You really have to hand it to the British — they’ll arrest anyone regardless of that person’s connections, while we tend to check their bank statements first.
With Andrew’s arrest, though, it’s beginning to appear that the only famous male figure who hasn’t associated with Epstein is Mickey Mouse.
•
We always knew that the cheerful and egalitarian image of pickleball was just a front for darker and more dangerous goings on, but now we have proof.
Florida couple Anthony and Julia Sapienza, he in his 60s and she in her 50s, were charged last week with varying degrees of battery after apparently beating the stuffings out of another guy in a pickleball dispute.
The fracas allegedly began when Mr. Sapienza accused his male opponent of stepping out of bounds a couple of times. He then proceeded to call his male counterpart’s wife a bad name ... a very bad name.
Well, one just doesn’t do that sort of thing, and it led to knuckle sandwiches being served courtside.
Altogether, 20-some people saw action of some kind and said things like, “Go ahead, hit me, you &^%$#>, I’m on Medicare. Hahahahaha.”
Afterwards, they all put on their black leather jackets, their colors and motored off on their golf carts ... looking for adventure or whatever comes their way.
* * *
In news of great significance, the City Council of Ocean City agreed that this year’s installment of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade will take place on Saturday, March 14, not that there was ever any doubt.
It always gets approved because it’s always a good time, or so I’ve been told by friends who say I seem to enjoy myself quite a bit.
It’s a culture thing with me. I like Irish music, Irish stout, Irish whiskey, Irish people, and a good time, so I’m Irish once a year.
But I also like other food, wine, espresso, interesting hand gestures, volcanoes and people who live near them, so I also alternate between wishing I was Irish and Sicilian. But then, because of the food, music, drink and other aspects of their cultures, I also wish I was Spanish, Mexican and Caribbean.
In fact, the one thing I’ve never said is, “Gee, I wish I was Swiss.” No one says that.
As far as I know, no one in this country sits around listening to Swiss music. And the only thing I know about Swiss food is that its cheese seems somehow incomplete.
I did attempt to yodel once, but I may have been drinking at the time. You know, now that I think bout it, it might have been a few years ago ... on St. Patrick’s Day.
PUBLIC EYE
Between the Lines
By Steve Green
A contentious school calendar process – at least on social media – continued this week with the approval of a pre-Labor Day start for the first time in what appears to be 12 years.
Considering Labor Day will fall on Sept. 7, the change to a pre-holiday start is understandable as a one-year anomaly. However, the outrage online from many parents is equally understandable. It’s true starting schools before Labor Day was not one of three options parents and constituents were asked to vote on recently. Parents felt slighted.
In defense of the school system, there was a strong backlash for the calendar options presented because they did not give a full two weeks off for Christmas and New Year’s weeks during the next school year. As a parent, it was a nice break this school year with two weeks off, but it has not been the norm each year.
This is one of those situations where not everyone will be happy, but I think in the end starting school before the holiday in exchange for a full two weeks off for the winter holidays is a good trade-off. Additionally, schools are set to close June 11 rather than June 15. There are negatives associated with starting before Labor Day to be certain, but I think the late holiday merits a pivot. The goal should always be for Worcester to start after Labor Day, but there are more positives than negatives this year with the earlier start.
***
Biking hours on the Boardwalk will be expanded this summer to 2 p.m. from noon. The change will be from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. The move is largely due to the tram service being dissolved and the popularity of riding the boards.
The City Council voted 6-1 to approve the proposal with Council member Carol Proctor opposed. Proctor, who said she frequents the Boardwalk often, believes adding two hours will become a public safety issue. City Manager Terry McGean, however, said after conferring with other staff members they were confident the later end time will not be a concern.
It will be interesting to see this summer how the change plays out. It seems like a reasonable concept to allow more time for bikers and could result in less morning congestion on the boards. People may spread out their biking times rather than rushing to get in a couple hours in the early morning. The good news here is Ocean City has the flexibility to adapt during the summer if public safety concerns do arise. ***
Heading into this week’s meeting at City Hall, it seemed clear the short-term rental moratorium petition was going to have enough signatures to place the matter before registered voters in Ocean City. Petition organizers were successful last year and essentially returned to those same signers in their latest effort.
Rather than have another referendum, which surely would have been close as the city’s electorate is clearly divided on the issue, Ocean City officials voted this week to end the short-term rental moratorium in R1 and MH districts immediately rather than in January 2027. Instead, the city will now work to enforce existing rules and regs on short-term rentals.
A question heading into this week’s meeting was whether the city would hold the referendum during the special election on April 21 to elect Tony DeLuca’s replacement or wait until the November municipal vote. The city likely would have waited until November is my guess to ensure better turnout, but the matter is now resolved. Now the immediate election focus turns to whether the April 21 vote will even take place. Former Councilman Peter Buas, the lead vote getter in the 2020 city council election, has filed for the seat. If nobody else files before the filing deadline, the election would likely be canceled and Buas would return to the council to serve the remaining two years of DeLuca’s term. The question then becomes whether Buas would again take a run at Mayor Rick Meehan’s post that he missed by 192 votes in 2024. ***
After initially seeming like the deal might be rejected, the Snow Hill Town Council was right last week to accept a $300,000 offer to sell the former firehouse property on Green Street. The town listed the property for $325,000.
Considering the condition of the building and the amount of money it will take to improve, Snow Hill is doing what it needed to do. It would not be a good use of public funds for the town to work to improve the building in the hopes of getting more money at the settlement table. Town officials, in the end, agreed with the town residents and businesspeople who encouraged them to proceed with the sale. Plans for the downtown property include converting it into an events space.
Check out Democratic clubs before the primary
Editor,
The primary is coming up in June. Maryland only allows voters registered as Democratic or Republican to vote in the primary. If you are not registered or are registered as Independent, Libertarian, Green or Constitution Party, you may not vote in the primary.
The Worcester County Democratic Committee’s main focus is discovering, training, backing, and electing Democratic candidates. We strive to create a strong and connected Democratic community. As a member of the Worcester County Democratic Committee, I urge you to please consider registering as a Democrat so you can cast a ballot in June for your preferred choice for governor, state senator, district delegate and district commissioner.
The candidate filing deadline is Feb. 24. It’s time to learn about the Maryland candidates and make an informed decision on June 23, 2026. If you aren't sure how to find out who is running for what, Democratic clubs are a great resource, and I'm going to tell you about two of them in our county.
The Democratic Women’s Club (DWC) is a vibrant network of women and men who work to elect Democrats, advocate on state and local issues of importance, and educate our community on critical issues. We also offer opportunities for members to meet new people and to volunteer and give back to the community. The Democratic Women’s Club usually meets the fourth Monday of each month at the Berlin Library from 9:30 a.m. to noon. This month’s meeting is 2/23 and the speaker is from the Ocean City Art League.
The Democratic Club of Worcester
County strives to promote participation in the Democratic Party through registration, voting, social gatherings, educational activities, publicity and fundraising. The Democratic Club of Worcester County meets the fourth Thursday of most months at the Ocean Pines Library from 6pm to 8pm. This month’s meeting is 2/26 and our speakers are Susan Buyers and Toby Perkins from Indivisible. You don’t have to be a member to attend these meetings; all are most welcome. Please come and check us out. I believe you will find we are a caring and respectful community with much more in common than our differences.
Tish Michel (Worcester County Democratic Committee and Democratic Women’s Club board member)
Make your voices heard on proposed legislation
Editor,
The 2026 Maryland Legislative season is rolling along - hundreds of bills have been filed and are under consideration. Once again, I hope to encourage locals to support some very good bills and oppose some very bad bills.
A desperately needed bill is Senate Bill 371, an emergency bill sponsored by Senator Carozza that would allow farmers to begin construction on their chicken farming operations prior to receiving full coverage under the Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO) general permit. This legislation is necessary because the Maryland Department of the Environment allowed the MDE General Discharge Permit for CAFOs to expire on July 7, 2025 without a new permit in place. This “unlegisContinued on Page 56
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Continued from Page 55
lated moratorium” is having devastating impacts on our chicken growers and the overall poultry industry. It is estimated that there is currently $35 million in stalled construction, and this does not even account for significant negative impacts to farm income, real estate transfers, etc.
The Eastern Shore Delegation of the Maryland General Assembly has called on Governor Moore to support disaster relief for Maryland’s commercial fishing industry, which is in dire straits due to market and weather conditions which are limiting them to one to two days of fishing per week during the entire oyster season.
Please contact Governor Moore and the Secretary of the Maryland Dept. of Natural Resources and urge them to make this disaster relief a priority. Gov. Moore’s telephone number is 1-800811-8336 or 410-974-3901. An email can be sent via governor.maryland.gov.
A highly questionable bill is Senate Bill 0004 which purports to keep charities nonpartisan. The danger in this bill is to churches - the possibility that they could lose their tax exempt status if found in violation. It is also a free speech issue. At the very least, the bill should be amended to exempt churches from the effects of the legislation.
Finally, there is still time to take action on Senate Bill 50 - known as the Fairness in Girls’ Sports Act. I simply do not understand how anyone can think it is fair and proper for biological boys to compete against girls. It is dangerous for the girls and it has caused girls to lose scholarship opportunities.
You can read the bills, get the status on committee hearings, and contact information for the delegates and senators at mgaleg.maryland.gov.
Carol Frazier Ocean Pines
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.
Continued from Page 53
lender must evaluate the overall stability and eligibility of the condominium project. They do this through a detailed questionnaire completed by the association or its management company.
The condo questionnaire form includes questions about the percentage of owner-occupied units, the number of units owned by a single entity, the adequacy of the association’s reserve funds, recent special assessments, insurance coverage, and whether there is any ongoing or anticipated litigation.
Essentially, the questionnaire helps the lender assess whether the building itself meets financing guidelines – because even a well-qualified buyer cannot obtain a loan for a condo that does not.
Both documents often come with fees charged by the association or management company. Resale
packages can range widely in price, but on average cost about $250-300, and are paid for and provided by the seller to a buyer.
Condo questionnaires may also incur additional fees, but this charge is traditionally paid for by the buyer.
Jason Cook, Eastern Shore Manager with Embrace Home Loans, explains, “For buyers, understanding these documents early in the process helps set realistic expectations. While the fees may feel like an unexpected add-on, both documents play an important role: one protects the buyer by promoting transparency, and the other protects the lender by ensuring the property meets financing standards. Together, they help create a smoother and more informed path to closing – one that benefits everyone involved.”
Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record for Keller Williams Realty Delmarva in Ocean City, Maryland.
L. ALLEN DAVIS
Salisbury
Lloyd Allen Davis, 84, of Salisbury, passed away at Coastal Hospice at the Lake on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026.
Born in Wicomico County on Dec. 27, 1941, he was the son of Lloyd P. Davis and Gladys M. Chance. He was preceded in death by his wife, Connie, in 2018.
After honorably serving in the U.S. Army, Allen attended and graduated from Goldey-Beacom Business College. He then began a long professional career in the insurance business in Maryland and Virginia. He retired after 30 years from People’s Life Insurance and L. Allen Davis agencies.
After retiring from the insurance business, Allen and Connie opened Subside Deli in Salisbury in 1995. Allen retired and closed the deli in 2021.
Allen, known as Mr. Subside Man, was famous for his sense of humor, story-telling abilities and cherished time spent with family and friends. Throughout his life, Allen was active in civic organizations, especially Lions Clubs where he served as President and in 2016, he was inducted into the Salisbury Lions Club Hall of Fame.
Salvatore.
Allen is survived by his three children, Pamela Lynn Green (Steve) of Berlin, Lori Anne Roberts (Chris) of Martinsburg, W.Va., and Patrick Allen Davis (Kristen) of Pittsville; seven grandchildren, Steven Salvatore (Trang), Beckett Green, Carson Green, Caden Roberts, Kylie Roberts, Reagan Davis and Peyton Davis; and great grandchildren, Zoe and Lana
ROAST
He was also preceded in death by loving family members who raised him, John Edward “Ed” Whittington, Sr. (2014) and Frances Irene Fisher Whittington (2017), and his siblings, John Davis, Betty Davis and Lynn Davis and Eddie Whittington (2019).
A funeral service will be held on Saturday, Feb. 21, at 10 a.m. at the Holloway Funeral Home in Salisbury with a visitation beginning at 9 a.m. Interment will follow at the Powellville Cemetery. A reception will follow.
Contributions in his memory may be made to Powellville United Methodist Church, 35606 Mount Herman Road, Pittsville, Md. 21850 or Coastal Hospice, PO Box 1733, Salisbury, Md. 21802.
Arrangements are in the care of Holloway Funeral Home, PA, 501 Snow Hill Road, Salisbury, Md. 21804. Please visit www.hollowayfh.com to express condolences to the family.
THEODORA ANN SPADACINO Berlin
Theodora “Teddy” Ann Spadacino, age 91, passed away on February 11, 2026, in Berlin, Maryland. She was born on November 1, 1934, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to the late Leonard S. Ruggiero and Ann (Civitate) Ruggiero.
Theodora “Teddy” graduated High School from St. Francis Academy in
1952 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. From there, she attended college at The University of Pittsburgh and Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, PA. She got her teaching degree and became a Catholic Grade School teacher. Teddy moved to the Washington DC metropolitan area in the early 60’s. Her first teaching job was at St. Jane Frances DeChantal Catholic School in Bethesda MD. The first class she taught there, she taught 63 students. Teddy also taught at other Catholic schools around the Montgomery County area. She taught at St. Elizabeths in Rockville, Our Lady of Mercy in Potomac and Holy Redeemer in Kensington MD. Teddy was dedicated and devoted to her teaching career. She loved teaching. Teddy met her husband Paul in the 60’s through a mutual teaching friend. They got married on October 22, 1966. Both Teddy and Paul were very involved in their careers. They had 1 daughter Ann Michelle who was born on January 22, 1973. Teddy and her family lived in Rockville MD and then later moved to Bethesda. In 1996, Teddy and Paul moved to Ocean City, MD. Teddy had 3 grandchildren (Paul, Christian, and Faith) whom she lived with in her final years. They were her
Allen Davis
T. SPADACINO
pride and joy. Teddy loved children. Teddy loved her family and friends. She loved to entertain and was always “The hostess with the mostess”. She had a “Million Dollar Smile”. Teddy loved her tea and her favorite cookie (Biscotti). She also loved her doggies and kitties. Teddy also loved Culture and Arts. She loved going to the Kennedy Center to listen to The National Symphony. Teddy loved to travel. She would often talk about how she went to Italy 3 times and got her rosary blessed by 3 Popes. Even though Teddy was from Pittsburgh, she became a fan of The Washington Redskins (Commanders) because of her husband Paul. Teddy enjoyed going to the games at RFK through the years and even went to a Super Bowl in 1984.
One of the final blessings she left behind was a beautiful home for her family. Christian, her grandson would often refer to her as” 24karat Grandma”. Teddy’s favorite saying is” Make your own Sunshine”. Teddy was a DEVOUT CATHOLIC and
loved to pray the rosary. She practiced her Faith every day. Teddy will be forever in our hearts.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband Paul J. Spadacino. She is survived by her daughter –Ann Michelle Spadacino; son-in-law – Munther S. Haddad; goddaughter – Jennifer Sanders; and her grandchildren – Paul A. Haddad, Christian S. Haddad, and Faith N. Haddad.
A viewing and rosary service was held at The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin, Maryland on Monday February 16, 2026.
Later in the week, a Mass was held at St. Jane Frances de Chantal Catholic Church in Bethesda, Maryland. Following the mass, there was a procession to her burial site at the Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Silver Spring, Maryland.
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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E-mail: editor@octodaydispatch.com
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Fax: 410-723-6511
Sports & Recreation
Decatur knocks off Snow Hill for home win
Seahawks too much for Eagles on both ends; Blake scores game high 19 pts.
By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer
(Feb. 20, 2026) Stephen Decatur’s girls basketball team won its fourth straight on Tuesday, crushing Snow Hill, 65-19, for the second time this
season.
The Seahawks started fast, scoring 16 points in the first quarter with 7 points from Maleah Blake. The Eagles only scored 6. Blake was the game high scorer with 19 points.
In the second quarter, Blake scored five points for the Seahawks, while Maia Holland added four and Maliyah Manuel, Paityn Tyre, Nickayla See and April Bondurant each scored one.
Seahawks scored 17 and Eagles scored eight. At the half the score was 33-14.
The third quarter was fast paced with several turnovers made by the Seahawks. Stephen Decatur added 22 points while Snow Hill only managed two points.
The fourth quarter was much of the same but Decatur eased up.
After the game, Head Coach Corey Holland said, “I thought defensively,
there’s some things that we got to clean up a little bit. Snow Hill’s a very good team. They did a great job of putting a little pressure on us in the transition game. So, things that we got to clean up but I thought overall the girls did well tonight.”
Decatur’s next game is tonight, Feb. 20 at 5:30 p.m. against Parkside at home. In January, the Seahawks beat Parkside, 65-19.
PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Lila Gunther and Maliyan Manuel apply enough defensive pressure to cause a turnover during the game against Snow Hill on Feb. 17.
PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Senior April Bondurant takes a shot during the home game against Snow Hill on Tuesday. She had three points in the game.
PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Maleah Blake was the game high scorer with 19 points to lead the Seahawks, including two from the three-point line.
Decatur swimmers off to Md. regional meet
(Feb. 20, 2026) Stephen Decatur High School’s swim program is gliding through its post season with its largest team ever.
During her first year at the helm, Coach Rebecca Farr led the team to an undefeated girls’ dual meet season (10-0) and an 8-1 mark for the boys. On Feb. 7, for the first time since the conference was created in 2019, the girls’ team captured the Bayside Conference championship title, finishing in first place while the boys’ team earned second place honors.
Several Decatur swimmers earned Bayside Conference championship titles with first-place finishes in their events. Freshman Karis Bagley won both the 100 butterfly (1:01.78) and the 100 backstroke (1:03.99), junior Kendall Bagley captured the 500 freestyle (5:33.66) for the second consecutive year, junior Vincent Schicchi took first in the 100 back-
stroke (59.96) and sophomore Kate Wanner delivered a standout performance winning the 200 individual medley while smashing both the SDHS and Bayside Conference records (2:13.35).
The Decatur girls’ relay teams also claimed championship titles with sophomore Macie Groves, junior Zoe David, freshman Finley Helfrich, and Wanner winning the 200 freestyle relay (1:47.76) and Helfrich, David and both Bagley girls snagging first place in the 400 freestyle relay (3:57.74).
On Feb. 14, Decatur swimmers captured historic double wins as both the girls’ and boys’ teams took first place in the 3A/2A/1A East Regional Championships.
“These swimmers have worked really hard all season, and to see them pull through and compete so well has been incredibly exciting,” Farr said.
In the individual events, all the swimmers who captured championship titles in their events at Baysides repeated their first-place wins, often bettering their previous times, and added more wins in the 200 freestyle for Kendall Bagley (2:05.47) and Schicchi (1:57.17) and the 100 breaststroke for Wanner (1:08.20).
Joining them were sophomores Ewan Betz in the 200 IM (2:15.56) and 100 breaststroke (1:06.53), Jake Demarest in the 50 freestyle (23.77) and Parker Gill in the 100 butterfly (1:01.52).
Decatur also won three of the six all important relay events with junior Luke Riser, Betz, Schicchi and Demarest in the 200 Freestyle (1:38.68), Helfrich, David and both Bagley girls once again in their 400 Freestyle and Karis Bagley, Wanner, Kendall Bagley and Groves breaking the SDHS record in the 200 medley (1:55.97).
Across the two weekends, the team also captured 12 second-place and 10 third-place finishes. The team was aided on deck both weekends by former coach Kristina Watts and all season long past alumni would make appearances to help cheer and support.
Farr loved how all of the swimmers showed up and brought their best and feels that “the really great thing about high school swimming is that, in a sport that often focuses on individual achievements, it allows the kids to get a feel for being part of a team. Watching these swimmers come together, have fun, and really root for each other and swimmers on the other teams is so rewarding and inspiring."
Decatur’s strong performance has qualified all 20 regionals swimmers to compete in the 3A/2A/1A State Championship Meet at the University of Maryland on Saturday, Feb. 20.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC
During last week’s Bayside Conference meet, Stephen Decatur’s girls team, left, won the championship for the first time, while the boys team took home runner up.
