05/01/2026 OC Today-Dispatch

OC Today-Dispatch

Two seats, five candidates

That’s what makes next Friday’s City Council special election not just special but unusual as well, since it will be seating two members of the resort’s governing body. That could mark the beginning of major changes that will culminate in November, when three more seats are available. — PAGE 12, 76

Meehan

going for two more as mayor

Long-time Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan says he’ll seek another twoyear term in the fall, when he faces a new challenger, City Council President Matt James. — PAGE 13

Ward Kovacs, Beach Patrol stalwart, dies

The full-time, year-round Beach Patrol lieutenant was considered by many among the best of the good guys. — PAGE 18

BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

COMES DOWN

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District 3 candidate facing questions over bankruptcies

BREAKFAST

Monday-Friday 9-11am

voices concerns about vanVonno’s financial issues

By Brian Shane Staff Writer Incumbent challenger Eric Fiori

(May 1, 2026) Worcester County Commissioner candidate Tim vanVonno is facing questions about past bankruptcies that involved millions in debt and a federal judge’s finding that he made false statements about his finances.

VanVonno, a former construction company owner running for the District 3 seat representing West Ocean City, addressed his issues directly in an interview this week. He said his financial collapse stemmed from disruptions to his business during the COVID-19 pandemic and was compounded by what he described as bad legal advice.

Public records show Karl Timothy vanVonno, 57, reported more than $7.6 million in personal liabilities in a January 2021 filing with U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Maryland. But a federal judge denied his request to discharge those debts after a court-appointed investigator said he had “knowingly and fraudulently” made a false oath about his financial situation.

Because the discharge was denied, the debts were not wiped out and remain legally enforceable. The filings included claims from homeowners and contractors tied to unfinished or disputed construction projects.

The issue has been brought up on the campaign trail by District 3 incumbent Worcester County Commissioner Eric Fiori, who said vanVonno’s financial record raises questions about his fitness to help oversee a county budget of roughly $300 million.

“This is about who in the hell you want to put in this office,” Fiori told OC-Today Dispatch this week.

“It’s heartbreaking to me, as someone who loves Worcester County and has put my blood, sweat, and thousands of hours into moving this county forward,” he added, “to see the financial record of a challenger that’s this poor.”

The campaign between vanVonno and Fiori is a rematch of the 2022 election, when both men ran as firsttime candidates with two other candidates. Fiori, a small business owner, defeated runner-up vanVonno by 37 votes in the Republican primary and went unopposed in the general election.

VanVonno, in response, told OC Today-Dispatch that his remaining debts have been settled or can no longer be legally pursued. He asserted that most liabilities were business-related and asserted some claims against him were false. He also said he had been transparent about the matter in 2022 by mentioning it in campaign ads.

When asked about allegations of fraud – including court findings that he earned more than $200,000 prior to filing for bankruptcy despite claiming zero income – he said that “there is truth to that,” adding that the discrepancy stemmed from how his income was reported on the filing.

“Unfortunately, I think I had bad legal advice to even file Chapter 7, to be honest,” vanVonno said. “What they said is, ‘What was your net income?’ And my tax base and my tax returns were less than zero. So, the lawyer told me to put zero.”

VanVonno’s personal bankruptcy filing listed multiple claims against him, including more than $2.3 million tied to litigation involving a Virginia man, Reade Bush, and various credit card debts included $10,800 to American Express.

The claims also include roughly $840,000 in business debt owed to John and Todd Burbage. VanVonno said this debt stemmed from disputes during the company’s collapse and was not ultimately pursued –and that he’s back on good terms with Todd Burbage.

One outstanding claim of $257,000 from Ohio supplier Carter Lumber won’t be settled, according to vanVonno. “I don’t really know if they’re ever going to come after me or not. I’ve talked to the lawyers, I don’t think they will, but they could always,” he said.

VanVonno also said few of the nearly two dozen creditors in the case have pursued him personally in the years since the filings, which he argues reflects the disputed nature of many financial claims. The case was closed in August 2022.

Prior to bankruptcy, vanVonno had been in the construction business for four decades and had operated VP Construction, LLC, for 13 years. After a decade of steady growth, he said business at the Arlington, Virginia, firm was “booming” when the COVID-19 pandemic See ISSUES Page 4

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Tim vanVonno

Eric Fiori

Issues stem from business collapse in ’20

Continued from Page 3

hit.

He described a collapse that unfolded quickly as pandemic lockdowns and supply chain breakdowns upended dozens of projects already underway and sidelined work crews.

“We went home for 45 days… some customers didn’t want our guys back in the houses. I couldn’t get materials,” he said. “I drove to Ohio to get windows just to finish some of these projects.”

In one home build, the owner objected when lumber prices spiked the

cost of framing from $48,000 to more than $200,000. “Right there, all the money was gone in the project,” he said.

Combined with the stigma of a Chapter 11 filing that limited new business, vanVonno said the pandemic left him unable to recover financially, though he was ultimately able to complete unfinished home builds. He is no longer in the construction business.

“If it weren’t for COVID,” vanVonno said, “I wouldn’t have found myself in this situation.”

The Maryland filing wasn’t his only bankruptcy. Six weeks earlier, in December 2020, vanVonno also had filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in Virginia, this time for his business. That case listed more than $2 million in outstanding debt for VP Construction and was later converted to a Chapter 7 liquidation before the business was dissolved in 2025.

Because vanVonno had personally guaranteed some of those debts, they carried over into his personal bankruptcy.

A Virginia regulatory board on

Feb. 24 of this year approved a $30,000 claim against VP Construction through the state’s contractor recovery fund, finding sufficient evidence that the claim met statutory requirements for reimbursement. Under Virginia law, that payout carries consequences: the contractor license tied to the claim is automatically revoked, and vanVonno is required to repay the state the full amount plus interest. He is also barred from obtaining a new contractor’s license in Virginia until the debt is satisfied.

Travel Night

Atlantic Pedicabs to launch service near Memorial Day

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 1, 2026) A new pedicab service is coming to the Ocean City Boardwalk.

On Tuesday, the Ocean City Council awarded a newly created Boardwalk pedicab franchise to Atlantic Pedicabs LLC, a New Jersey company currently operating pedicab rides at the Jersey Shore and in Brooklyn, N.Y.

The vendor was one of three bids city staff reviewed and accepted during a proposal opening held April 21.

“Upon review of the accepted submissions it was clear that the submission by Atlantic Pedicab LLC scored the highest marks in the evaluation criteria matrix that we developed, as well as the highest on an aggregate score basis,” Procurement Manager Matt Perry told the council this week.

In February, the council voted to solicit bids from operators interested in entering into a franchise agreement for Boardwalk pedicab services. The service would replace the Boardwalk trams, which were pulled from operation in 2024 after a police investigation into a tram fatality revealed a series of motor vehicle violations.

The council’s decision to pursue a pedicab franchise follows pleas from community members and requests from the Ocean City Development Corporation (OCDC) to find a replacement for the Boardwalk tram service.

In a letter sent to the council in December, the OCDC called for an alternative that meets the demands of visitors and businesses, which they report have “felt the difference” of not having the tram carrying patrons up and down the boards.

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Pedicab company to replace Boardwalk tram operations

tives to bring back some kind of service similar to the Boardwalk Tram,” the letter reads. “We have the infrastructure already built to bring back a smaller, safer, purpose-built tram. We will also continue to have the need for the tram, which include individuals with disabilities, elderly patrons and families; not to mention visitors who simply have nostalgic memories of riding the tram.”

Deputy City Manager JR Harmon told city leaders Tuesday that Atlantic Pedicabs would begin Memorial Day weekend, starting off with 10% of its fleet and growing to a full complement of pedicabs by July 1. When asked if operations could be adjusted if any problems arise, Harmon said the company’s willingness to share data and feedback would allow the city to do so.

“Because it’s app driven, they have openly, and without prompting, offered to share their data …,” he said.

“So this will be a very transparent vendor.”

According to the project scope issued this winter, the city’s objective in developing a pedicab program is to provide a transportation service to Boardwalk visitors outside of the normal bike hours. The program will feature one company, which would start with at least 20 vehicles, 10% of which having the ability to accommodate strollers, wheelchairs and walkers.

Officials say the program will operate as a demand-response system, and that pedicabs would use the existing tram lane. Operations are expected to begin around Memorial Day and end on or about Labor Day of each year, although the city will reserve the right to allow operations for special events outside of that timeframe.

In its 39-page submission to the city, Atlantic Pedicabs outlined its operational model for the Boardwalk pedicab services, calling it a “demand-response (on-demand), appdispatched, cashless service that prioritizes pedestrian safety, route compliance, operational accountability, and a consistently high customer experience throughout the peak summer season.”

In addition to furnishing the pedicab fleet – an investment estimated between $255,000 and $275,000 –the company will also be responsible for paying the city the required franchise fee – $25,000 in the first year and $50,000 per year for the four years that follow.

Atlantic Pedicabs says it will operate from 2 p.m. to midnight each day and will employ its own staff, which will work in shifts. The company also outlined its pricing structure, which ranged from $10 for a half-mile ride to $30 for a full 2.2-mile ride.

“After operations stabilize – anticipated in late 2026 or during the 2027 season – Atlantic Pedicabs may evaluate optional customer programs such as a senior rider discount, firsttime user incentives, loyalty programs, and frequent rider incentives,” the proposal reads.

With no further questions this week, the City Council voted 4-0, with Council Secretary Will Savage absent, to award the franchise to Atlantic Pedicabs. City Manager Terry McGean said an ordinance to formally create the pedicab franchise will be presented to the City Council next Monday.

Last week’s article, “OC council president to run for mayor this Nov., he says” incorrectly stated the year Councilman Matt James was named council president. He was nominated in 2020. We apologize for the error.

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Meehan eyes another term, will run in fall mayoral race

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 1, 2026) The Town of Ocean City will have another contested mayoral race this fall after incumbent Rick Meehan announced this week that he will seek re-election.

On Wednesday, Meehan confirmed he will seek another two-year term, making him the second candidate in as many weeks to announce his candidacy for the fall mayoral election. He said he hopes to continue representing the city, just as he has done so for the last 20 years.

“I usually file after the budget is passed and the new fiscal year begins, and right now I have every intention of doing so,” he said.

as the replacement for state Del. Bennett Bozman, who passed away in office. Since that time, Meehan, a local real estate agent, has secured 10 reelections, making him the longest serving mayor in Ocean City’s history.

In 2024, Meehan went head-tohead with local attorney Peter Buas, marking the first contested mayoral race since 2018.

Meehan, a Baltimore native, moved to Ocean City in 1971 and entered municipal politics in 1985, when he was elected to the Ocean City Council. He would go on to serve as council president for 14 years before taking over the office of mayor in June of 2006.

That summer, he succeeded thenmayor Jim Mathias, who was named

Both Meehan and Buas led strong campaigns in the lead up to Election Day. However, support for Buas was particularly strong amongst council members, most of whom reportedly frustrated over the mayor’s handling of city affairs.

Meehan won by a narrow 192-vote lead.

Meehan now seeks to join current Council President Matt James on the ballot this November.

James announced his run for mayor last week.

Candidates have until Oct. 2 to file for the Nov. 3 election. This year, the mayor’s seat and three council seats – including the one held by James –will be up for grabs.

Rick Meehan

HHH GO GREEN FOR WORCESTER HHH

Dear Worcester County residents, I am running for the District 4 County Commissioner seat to continue my lifelong commitment to serving this community.

Many years ago, Mr. Rogers said, “Life is for service.” Those words have stayed with me and have guided my efforts to help make this community a better place to live, work and play.

For the past four years, I have had the honor of serving on the Berlin Town Council where I have tried to approach every challenge with common sense, collaboration, and respect for different viewpoints. Before that, and continuing today, I have spent 29 years as a community newspaper editor. That experience has given me a unique perspective and deep understanding of the issues facing our local governments — both past and present.

Throughout my adult life, I have worked to bring fairness, reason, and thoughtful discussion to the challenges facing our community. I consider myself a consensus builder, someone who believes progress comes from listening, collaboration, and practical solutions. I have a career of local involvement in this community that will serve me well in representative government.

I am seeking this position to bring a fresh and passionate voice to the District 4 seat and to serve the residents of Worcester County with integrity and dedication.

I respectfully ask for your vote and encourage you to reach out to me at any time. I pledge to be a listener, remain accessible, transparent, and committed to representing the best interests of our entire community. You will see me in the community because I promise, 'I WILL SHOW UP.'

Five candidates seeking two open seats on city council

Adkins, Buas, DeSanctics, Heiser, Murphy participate in question-and-answer

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 1, 2026) With the resignation of two council members, Ocean City’s electorate will be called on to select their replacements in the May 8 special election.

Over the course of two months, councilmen Tony DeLuca and Larry Yates announced their resignations from the Ocean City Council, setting in motion a deadline to fill their vacant seats. Next week, five candidates – John F. Adkins, Peter Buas, Anthony “Tony” DeSanctis, Jeff Heiser and William “Bill” Murphy – will vie for a spot on the dais.

Adkins, a Navy veteran and retired electrician, has resided in Ocean City for more than three decades. Despite an unsuccessful attempt at a council seat in the 2012 municipal election, he remains involved in municipal government meetings, often seen in the audience when not spending the winter months at his place in Florida.

Buas, a local attorney and lifelong resident, is also no stranger to Ocean City’s political scene. In 2020, he secured the most votes in the November election to gain a seat on the City Council. Four years later, he challenged incumbent Rick Meehan in the mayoral race, which he lost by a 192-vote margin.

Adkins and Buas are joined on the ballot by DeSanctis, a Baltimore native and longtime businessman in the sales and finance sectors. He will seek another shot at a City Council seat after losing to DeLuca, Yates and sitting councilmembers John Gehrig and Jake Mitrecic in the 2024 race.

Heiser and Murphy, newcomers to the municipal election process, round out the ballot.

Heiser, who has lived in Ocean City for the last 27 years, spent twoand-a-half decades working his way up the ranks of the Ocean City Police Department before retiring as a lieutenant in July of 2024. Husband of Worcester County State’s Attorney Kris Heiser, he currently teaches part-time at the Eastern Shore Criminal Justice Academy.

Murphy, on the other hand, built a career in New York City before retiring to the resort more than a decade ago. He now works as a bus driver for the city’s transportation department.

Ahead of next week’s special election – to be held from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the convention center – the OC Today-Dispatch asked each candidate to answer a series of questions. The following highlights the re-

sponses of all five participants.

Q. What in your background and life experiences distinguishes you as a suitable candidate for the Ocean City Council?

Adkins: I don’t know if there is anything in my background that can make me a good candidate for the Ocean City Council. The only thing I can say is I have lived here for more than 30 years. I’ve attended a lot of council meetings at 6 o’clock on Mondays. I am not a politician nor do I want to be one, but I would like to represent the people of Ocean City and what is best for them.

Ocean City is a tourist town and that’s how we pay for a lot of things is when people come to visit us and I know this.

Buas: My goal has always been to serve Ocean City where I can add the most value. That has meant staying consistently involved, engaged, and informed about our community, our history, and the challenges we face.

Ocean City is not just where I serve; it is where I have lived my entire life. It is where I have built my family and my career as a local attorney serving residents and businesses. The decisions made by the Council are not abstract to me. They affect our home, our community, and our family’s future.

I had the privilege of serving on the Council from 2020 to 2024, where I took a disciplined approach to the job, focused on preparation, thoughtful decision-making, and delivering results. Rather than seeking re-election, I ran for mayor because I believed a fresh approach and renewed commitment to collaboration were needed to move Ocean City forward. That experience gave me a deeper connection to our community and a clearer understanding of its expectations.

Since then, I have remained actively involved through local nonprofits and ongoing engagement with residents and businesses. My work on the issues has not stopped.

John F. Adkins

Peter Buas

Tony DeSanctis

Jeff Heiser

Bill Murphy

That experience, combined with my professional skill set and day-today work in the community, gives me the judgment, perspective, and ability to step in immediately as a productive and effective member of the Council, advancing the interests of Ocean City.

DeSanctis: I have decades of life experience, business experience and community service to share with OC. I am a proven leader and have a proven track record of business success and dedicated community service. My experience, energy and enthusiasm bring people together.

I am a family man, married to my, Janet, for 42 years and have 3 children, including a daughter with Down Syndrome who resides with us, a daughter in Dallas and a son in Chicago.

My professional background includes decades of Fortune 500 experience in accounting, finance, marketing and management. As a small business owner I started and successfully sold 3 businesses and retired as an award-winning insurance agent.

As a volunteer for the United Way, The ARC and others I have dedicated countless hours and set numerous fundraising records. Locally, I am a member of Beach Heroes, an OC Beach Patrol volunteer and member of the local Sons of Italy lodge. I also have 16 years of HOA experience, 11 as president, and I currently serve on my condo Board.

Heiser: I have been a proud OC local since 1999 and I served the town as a police officer for over 25 years, retiring as a lieutenant in 2024. I have also served as the president of the 80-unit Balmoral Condominium Association in north Ocean City for over 10 years.

These positions have given me tremendous experience building partnerships and using common sense to solve problems throughout the various communities within OC. I have worked with nearly every town department, as well as built relationships and established rapport with business owners, residents and special event promoters to ensure our town is safe and provides efficient and effective services for locals and visitors.

Whether the problem is as small as helping a neighbor with a water leak or as large as managing security at a special event or concert on the boardwalk, I have a proven track record of success and the knowledge, training and experience to continue establishing smart policies for the future of OC.

Murphy: I offer a unique blend of high-level executive leadership and front-line community service. Professionally, I retired from HBO as Director of Data Services, where I managed multi-million dollar projects and complex technical infrastructures—skills that are directly

applicable to managing a city.

My connection to Ocean City is lifelong; I have been visiting since 1981 and invested in my first property here in 1995. Locally, I served as President and Secretary of the Decatur House board for a decade, giving me deep insight into property management and community governance. Perhaps most importantly, since 2014, I have driven the OC Beach Bus, often working the barclosing shifts.

This role has given me an unfiltered, intimate understanding of our city's pulse, its safety needs, and the real-world experiences of our visitors and workforce.

Q. What do you see as the biggest issues facing Ocean City, and how do you plan to address them? Please list at least three.

Adkins: I do not know what are the three biggest issues that are facing

Ocean City. I have lived on a fixed income for 16 years. That has been one of the hardest things I have had to get used to. With the cost of everything increasing, including housing, living expenses and to be able to hire people for summertime jobs and give them a place to live is one of the hardest things I see Ocean City has to face.

Buas: First, public safety staffing. We have made the commitment to fully fund our departments, but the challenge now is recruitment and retention. The priority is ensuring our police, fire, EMS, and public works teams are fully staffed and properly resourced to meet the growing demands of our residents and visitors, especially during peak season.

Second, continued investment in infrastructure. Long-range planning is critical. Staying ahead of the curve requires maintaining and improving our roads, facilities, and public as-

sets, while continually evaluating our Capital Improvement Plan to meet future needs before they arise.

Third, growing and maintaining a strong year-round residential population. A stable resident base supports our workforce, strengthens public safety, and keeps Ocean City functioning beyond just the summer season. That requires focusing on affordability so Ocean City is a place where people can build a life, rely on consistent Town services, and support working families.

Fourth, focusing on a high-quality tourism economy. Tourism is our main industry, and the goal is to attract visitors who respect our community and contribute positively to our local economy.

DeSanctis: 1. Turbines: Must be stopped

2. Affordability: While I do not be-

Continued on Page 82

BZA denies uptown tandem parking request

Developer would demo 146th Street laser tag, mini golf for new condo complex

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 1, 2026) Citing the negative impacts it would have on surrounding properties, and the necessity of providing the required parking, an appeals board last Thursday denied a developer’s request to build smaller, tandem spaces for a condominium project at 146th Street.

After more than an hour of presentations, public comments and deliberations, the Ocean City Board of Zoning Appeals voted unanimously to deny a request to construct 132 tandem parking spaces underneath a proposed 66-unit condominium de-

velopment at 107 146th Street, and to make half of them 4 feet shorter in length than what is currently required by code.

While the developer, Nolen Graves, has plans to replace the existing mini golf course, laser tag venue and office building with residential units, property owners in the surrounding Caine Woods community made their case for why the parking exception would hurt the neighborhood.

“I think it’s going to cause a lot of problems,” board member Emily Nock said of the developer’s request.

Ocean City Zoning Analyst Chase Phillips told the appeals board last week that the applicant wanted a parking exception to allow for 132 parking spaces to be provided in a tandem configuration, or a layout

where cars are parked one behind the other. He said the applicant also requested that 66 of those spaces be 9by-38 feet rather than the required 9-by-42 feet.

“The width requirement has been met, but the length requirement has not been met thus far,” he explained.

Phillips said that while tandem parking is allowed by right for duplexes, single-family homes and certain townhomes, it is not allowed for the type of condominium development being proposed. He added that in order to allow the special exception, the board must find that the request does not adversely affect neighboring properties and that the proposed use makes the full provision of parking unnecessary.

For his part, the developer’s attorney, Regan Smith, noted that his

client was providing 181 spaces, more than what is required by code. The only diversion, he said, was the configuration and size of the spaces to be located underneath the condo units.

He said the shorter length would allow for a 10-foot landscaping buffer, which he said would provide screening from the street.

“We could get to 42 feet, but it would eat into it by 4 feet,” he said.

Architect Rick Schoellkopf, however, said the dimensions were not the main concern.

“The length of the space is not critical to the project moving forward,” he told the board. “The ability to park tandem is.”

During a public hearing last Thursday, staff introduced six letters of opposition from surrounding property owners. Four Caine Woods residents also came before board members last week to ask that they deny the developer’s requests.

“Building residential in commercial is allowed. We can’t stop that,” said resident Dennis Dare. “But we can stop the impact on our adjacent residential neighborhoods.”

Dare argued that the proposed condominium project and parking exception, if approved, would create more traffic and parking issues in his community. Currently, he said, beachgoers park several blocks into Caine Woods.

“It may sound good in theory, but not in reality,” he said.

Caine Woods resident Dave Freebery agreed. He said that since moving to Ocean City fulltime two years ago, parking and traffic issues within his community had only gotten worse.

“I think there should be no more parking exceptions,” he said.

Resident Robin Yates also took issue with the proposed tandem parking configuration, which she said would not be large enough to accommodate two large vehicles.

“The tandem parking is going to extremes,” she said, adding that it wasn’t functional for the proposed residential development.

While the developer’s attorney argued the proposed tandem configuration would have no more of an impact than if it was built at a townhouse or duplex development, the city’s appeals board denied the applicant's request for tandem parking.

While she noted the developer has provided enough parking for the proposed condo units, Nock questioned if residents would actually park in them.

“If you don’t have people parking in the tandem spaces, I think it is going to negatively affect the neighboring properties,” she said.

With a request to allow tandem parking denied, the appeals board also voted to turn down the developer’s request for shorter parking spaces.

Kovacs remembered for his personal gifts

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 1, 2026) The Ocean City community lost one of its most highly regarded members last week with the passing of Ocean City Beach Patrol Lt. Edward “Ward” Kovacs.

A member of the patrol since 1983, Kovacs, 64, was a well-known face in the resort, having worked his way up the ranks to become a lieutenant and the agency’s first and only year-round employee.

Officials say he spent the last 43 years of his life protecting Ocean City's residents and visitors, as well as mentoring the next generation of lifeguards.

“Everyone called him a nice guy,” Beach Patrol Capt. Butch Arbin said in an interview Monday. “That was his personality. Gentle and caring and more pastoral. That was his gift, even more so than the gifts we hired him for at Beach Patrol. Everyone knew that.”

Kovacs was found at his home on Saturday following a wellness check by local first responders. A cause of death has not been made public.

In a statement issued Sunday, City Manager Terry McGean joined other resort agencies in reflecting on Kovacs’ life and service to the Ocean City community.

“Throughout his tenure, Ward

touched the lives of thousands of people across our community,” McGean wrote in a statement on behalf of the city. “He was deeply committed to his calling with the Beach Patrol, compassionate in his service to the public, and a respected mentor and role model to the many young men and women who worked alongside him as lifeguards. Ward’s leadership, kindness, and steady presence made a lasting impact not only within the Beach Patrol, but across the entire Town of Ocean City organization. His passing leaves a profound sadness that will not easily be filled.”

Kovacs’ career with the Ocean City Beach Patrol began in June of 1983. And by the fall of 1990, he was promoted to crew chief, a position that manages sections of the beach and teams of lifeguards.

Kovacs rose to the rank of lieutenant in July of 1992, a position he maintained in the decades that followed. He was appointed as the Beach Patrol’s first full-time, year-round employee about 15 years later.

As a member of the Beach Patrol, Kovacs spearheaded the agency’s recruiting and training efforts and led various education and public outreach programs. He also oversaw the surfing beaches, Beach Patrol vehicles and facilities, and more.

Outside of his career, Kovacs graduated seminary school and assisted in services at his church in Rehoboth Beach. In addition, he was a volunteer firefighter and dive team member with the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company.

“Ward dedicated decades of his life

to protecting our beaches, our residents, and our visitors. His leadership, compassion, and steady presence left a lasting impact on generations of lifeguards and on the entire Ocean City community,” a statement from the Ocean City Fire Department reads.

PHOTO COURTESY BRAD HOFFMAN

OCBP Lt. Ward Kovacs was 64 years old when he died last weekend.

OCBP in shock after Kovacs death

“We are grateful for the close partnership we shared with Ward and the Beach Patrol. His commitment to service and to those around him will never be forgotten.”

Tributes began pouring in this week when news of Kovacs’ passing was made public Sunday. Colby Phillips, a part-time Beach Patrol member who has worked alongside Kovacs for the last 33 years, said his death has come as a shock to all.

“Ward was this big, loving teddy bear that was silly and goofy,” she said in an interview Monday. “It’s hard to describe someone that holds so many qualities. He just loved. He was what kindness was.”

Phillips said Kovacs was like family to countless colleagues and community members, often looked upon as a

father or uncle to many. She recounted stories of him attending her daughters’ graduation parties and games and helping his neighbor’s daughter plant a garden.

“Some people have light over them,” she said. “That was Ward.”

Those sentiments were shared this week by Ocean City resident and event promoter Brad Hoffman, whose ties to the surfing community connected him with Kovacs more than three decades ago. Kovacs would later mentor Hoffman’s daughter, Molly, who participated in the Junior Beach Patrol program.

“I believe the Beach Patrol was his family,” he said. “He invested his heart and soul into it, and I believe we are all better people because Ward was in our lives.”

Hoffman shared stories of his inter-

actions with Kovacs and his involvement within the community. He said Kovacs was more than a beach patrol lieutenant.

“When this type of loss happens suddenly to our community, it’s a void that will never be filled,” he said. “But in time, people can take what Ward showed them and embody some for that strength, wisdom and steadfast commitment to the town and its safety.”

Lt. Skip Lee, another 43-year veteran of the Beach Patrol, said Kovacs had a way of making everyone’s life better. He said Kovacs could be described in one word – generous.

“There’s so much more to Beach Patrol than sitting on the stand and jumping in the water,” he said. “Ward was just connected to that. Ward gave of himself in any way. I don’t know anyone else like him.”

Like Arbin, Lee shared of Kovacs' compassion for others. He also reflected on Kovacs’ faith.

“He was literally loved by thousands of people, helped thousands of people become mature adults, and led many people to Christ,” he said.

Arbin said the Beach Patrol continues to push ahead this week in prepa-

ration for the summer season, despite Kovacs’ absence. He said there are no plans at this time to find his replacement.

“I’m going to miss him more as a friend than as an employee,” he said.

Visitations will be held at Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin on Thursday, May 7, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. A funeral service will be held at Coastal Community Church on Monday, May 11, at 10 a.m.

County’s recycling division continuing to lose money

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(May 1, 2026) Worcester County collected millions more pounds of recycling last year. But generated less revenue – and taxpayers are covering the difference.

The shift reflects a sharp drop in the market for recyclable materials, which has undercut what the county can earn from selling paper, plastic and metal.

County officials say they sometimes hold materials for weeks or months, waiting for a buyer, Public Works Director Dallas Baker told the county commissioners.

the decline, according to Bob Keenan, the county’s recycling manager. Vendors are offering just a few cents per pound for plastic.

“There is simply no market in it,” he said. “There are warehouses and warehouses of plastic that (vendors) can’t get anybody to buy.”

Other materials have also lost value, Keenan said: Corrugated cardboard has fallen from $125 a ton to as low as $60. Mixed paper has dropped from $120 a ton to $70. Aluminum sells for $1.09 by the ton through a broker, though market prices are closer to 80 cents.

“Cardboard still sells really well. Metals sell really well. Plastic is kind of horrible,” he said at an April 14 budget work session.

“For most of the year, plastic might not sell at all – like, you have to pay somebody to come take your plastic.”

The county is projecting $150,000 in recycling revenue for fiscal year 2027, against more than $1.2 million in costs – a shortfall absorbed by the county’s general fund, according to Enterprise Fund Controller Quinn Dittrich.

He added that recycling revenue has declined in the last two fiscal years, falling about $80,000 in 2024 and $15,000 in 2025.

Low prices for plastics are driving

At the same time, recycling volume is up. Last year, the county collected 1,985 more tons of recyclables – that’s almost 4 million pounds – than in 2024. Totals for 2025 came to 12,236 tons for residential recyclables and 24,707 for commercial, according to Keenan.

He noted that the county has been promoting recycling through outreach, in part by hosting 14 school field trips in the last year to its Newark processing facility.

“We send them home with a lot of literature about what you can and can’t recycle,” Keenan said. “I want people to know what we do, and that we’re not throwing their recycling away.”

PHOTO COURTESY DAVID COLEMAN

Along with his Ocean City Beach Patrol career, Ward Kovacs was also a volunteer fireman with the Ocean City Fire Department.

Police investigating after bus driver reportedly drank on job

Worcester

County Sheriff’s Office directs parents to local child advocacy center

Staff Reports

(May 1, 2026) Details of the incident are unclear, but Worcester County Public Schools officials told parents on Tuesday a bus driver drank alcohol on the job.

“Please know that the safety and wellbeing of WPCS students remains my highest priority.”

Wallace declined to provide any further details because of the investigation, saying, “I sincerely apologize for the concern and uncertainty this situation may cause for you and your family.”

On Wednesday, the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office said the school system notified the department on Saturday of “an alcohol-related incident involving a school bus driver.”

In a letter distributed to parents on April 28, Superintendent of Schools Annette Wallace informed parents of the “concerning situation” involving a bus driver “on your child’s route consumed alcohol before completing the day’s scheduled runs.”

The statement continued, “While all students were transported to their destinations without incident, the actions of the driver have been reported” to police to investigate. As of Monday morning, a new bus driver was assigned to the route. The bus was transporting students to and from Stephen Decatur Middle School, according to parents who received the letter.

The statement read, “A thorough investigation is currently being conducted by investigators from the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office and Child Protective Services. Due to the active nature of this investigation, no additional information can be released at this time.”

Parents of students riding the bus in question Friday should expect to hear from investigators, according to the sheriff’s office. Parents of affected children are advised by the department to reach out to Worcester County Child Advocacy Center (CAC) at 410-641-0097 if they have information to provide or need resources for the child.

“I take this matter very seriously and I understand that this information is upsetting,” Wallace said.

Route 113 traffic stop leads to guns, drugs

(May 1, 2026) A Virginia man was arrested on drug and weapons charges after a traffic stop on Route 113.

On Monday, troopers with the Maryland State Police Berlin Barrack went to Route 113 after passing motorists noticed a pickup truck parked on the shoulder of the road, according to a department social media post.

While interviewing the driver, police observed what they considered to be abnormal behavior, leading troopers to suspect he was under the influence.

Police searched the vehicle and

found four handguns and suspected heroin and cocaine. Gregory McAuliffe, 42, of Onancock, Virginia, was arrested and charged with one count of loaded handgun in a vehicle, four counts of handgun in a vehicle, and one count of possession of a controlled dangerous substance, not cannabis. He was transported to the Worcester County Detention Center, where he is being held without bond.

Police also said on the barrack’s Facebook post, “If you see something concerning, you can let us know by calling the barrack on our emergency (911) or non-emergency line at 410641-3101.”

Recycling division struggling

Continued from Page 20

Worcester’s revenue decline mirrors a broader trend. A March 2026 report from the Northeast Recycling Council found recycling commodity values hit a five-year low in 12 states, including Maryland and Delaware.

Industry reports also show at least five U.S. plastic recycling facilities have closed since early 2025 as demand has weakened.

Ocean City officials faced a similar reality years ago. The resort pulled the

plug on its traditional recycling program in 2009 after determining it was too costly to maintain.

In its final year, the city spent $1.2 million on recycling and brought in $200,000 in revenue, according to Public Works Director Hal Adkins. Since then, Ocean City has contracted to truck its rubbish to waste-to-energy incinerators outside Philadelphia and Washington, D.C.

“It was just not sustainable,” Adkins said. “It doesn’t make money.”

a Route 113 traffic stop are pictured. Amounts of heroin and cocaine were also recovered.

New ‘escape room’ approved for uptown OC

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 1, 2026) Ocean City leaders this week granted a conditional use that will allow the operators of local escape rooms to open a new location in an uptown shopping center.

In a 4-0 vote, with Council Secretary Will Savage absent, the Ocean City Council on Tuesday approved a conditional use request from Maze Game LLC principals Asiya Abdrakhmanova and Ekaterina Golub to open another escape room at the Bayside Plaza Shopping Center, located in the LC-1 commercial district at the corner of Coastal Highway and 138th Street.

The council vote was supported by a favorable recommendation from the Ocean City Planning Commis-

sion.

“They have other Maze Games escape rooms in town,” Ocean City Planning and Community Development Director George Bendler said. “They have been successful. That’s why they are coming before you for an additional one.”

During a public hearing in March, city staff presented the planning commission with the conditional use request from Maze Games LLC to open another location at 13725 Coastal Highway. As escape rooms – a form of indoor amusement – are authorized under conditional uses, they require the approval of the City Council.

“In other words, the code does not recognize escape rooms specifically, but we know that it is a form of indoor amusement,” Zoning Analyst

Chase Phillips told the commission at the time. “Therefore, the planning commission, and the mayor and City Council, have the ability to consider it in keeping with the other types of uses permitted in the LC-1 district.”

Ultimately, the commission voted to forward the conditional use request to the council with a favorable recommendation. As part of the recommendation, staff placed certain conditions, including that the recommended games are appropriate for families, that there are no locking mechanisms on interior doors, and that video monitors are installed and in use within the escape rooms during business hours, to name a few.

Back on the agenda this week, the council approved the conditional use request with no comments.

During their March meeting, however, planning commissioners expressed their desires to remove escape rooms as a conditional use in commercial districts.

“This is really cumbersome for a small business,” Commissioner Palmer Gillis said at the time.

Convention center renews food and beverage contract

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 1, 2026) The Ocean City Council has agreed to renew its contract with the convention center’s food and beverage vendor.

On Tuesday, the council voted 4-0, with Council Secretary Will Savage absent, to extend its current contract with Sodexo. With the term set to expire June 30, city leaders agreed to renew the contract another 11 years.

“Their performance has been good, the numbers look great …” Tourism and Business Development Director Tom Perlozzo told the City Council. “So, I’m very happy with the level of service and the return on our investment.”

Perlozzo told officials this week that Sodexo has provided “exceptional” service over the last decade and has raised revenues and food service quality at the convention center. He said this year’s estimated income from the food and beverage contract is expected to reach $750,000.

The renewed contract, officials added, includes percentage increases over the current contract and increased capital investments. He said the company has offered a capital contribution of $1,465,000, well above the $500,000 contribution listed in the current contract.

“… There’s a renovation plan that indicates Sodexo's willingness to contribute $1.465 million to improve the food service and our ability to match that number,” Perlozzo explained. “In addition, there’s $150K of cash that can be used for whatever the convention center needs to make improvements to property.”

With that said, Perlozzo presented staff’s recommendation to renew the city’s contract with Sodexo. City Manager Terry McGean added that the city had evaluated another vendor but ultimately chose to continue with the current company.

“We did look at another vendor and Sodexo remained the best vendor,” he said.

A motion to renew the contract passed in a 4-0 vote.

“It looks pretty good to me,” Councilman John Gehrig said.

Council opposes tax rate increase

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(April 30, 2026) The Berlin Town Council proposed cutting approximately $389,000 from its proposed budget for next year to help cure a revenue shortfall of roughly $400,000 against expenses and to avoid a tax increase.

At Monday night’s meeting of the Berlin mayor and Council, the group reviewed the proposed operating budget, considering items that could be eliminated to address a spending plan that would be $408,000 more than revenue projected for FY27.

Items considered for removal include replacement vehicles, playground work, an additional cost-of-living adjustment, a July 4 celebration, and a planning legal consultant.

Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall maintained that despite public chatter, the town is not operating in a deficit. Berlin is required to adopt a balanced budget — expenditures must equal revenues — before the fiscal year begins on July 1. At the time of Monday’s meeting, the draft budget reflected more than $400,000 in costs exceeding expected income.

“I just want to be clear, we’re not operating in a deficit,” Tyndall said. “What happens is the town adopts a balanced budget…There is no deficit at the start of the year. On a rolling basis, with our finance team, the town administrator, me, and the council, we review those expen-

ditures to make sure our budget is in line with our revenues and can keep pace… So, with that, what we are looking at is the cost of things and services the town provides, and all the activities we do for the community; those are projected to come in higher than our revenues. This is not uncommon.”

To address the gap, the Berlin Town Council whittled away at the financial plan, with cuts including $245,000 from public works for vehicles, $18,000 from a proposed half-percent cost-of-living increase for town staff in addition to the 2% included in the budget, $45,000 from an economic development Ford Maverick, $20,000 for a new playground climber, $11,900 for fireworks, and $50,000 for the planning legal consultant.

Town workers still will receive a step increase (2.5%) and a 2% COLA under the current budget plan.

From public works, the council is looking to cut a CAT skid loader for $20,000, a Ford F550 for $115,000, a Ford F250 to replace an aging F150 for $65,000, a salt-and-brine attachment for $25,000, and a zero-turn mower for $20,000.

Town officials added that they would also like to see the elimination of emergency preparedness radios at $10,500 for the police department. Tyndall, however, was hesitant to do away with the devices. Instead, the $10,500 will likely

be used as a contingency in the budget, and if it’s not used, will be returned to the radios.

Council members also provided justification for the proposed cuts. Councilwoman Shaneka Nichols, for instance, said that for the vehicles, she would like to “slash them all.”

“I think we cut any additional because with the 80 employees and 55 vehicles, I don’t think we need any right now… when your boot straps are tight at home, you make cuts, when your boot straps are tight in the town that you’re running, you have to make cuts…I remember my mother always saying, ‘before you buy a new car, if you can’t handle your debts and bills, then you drive that car until the wheels fall off.’ And I know that we’ve been in that place many times with vehicles in the past…I don’t think right now with the budget that we’re in and the state of the economy and world right now, I think we need to pause right now on vehicles.”

Town of Berlin Finance Director Natalie Saleh added that the budgeted trucks are to replace aging vehicles. Nichols, however, maintained that with the shortfall, FY27 is not the time to obtain any costly cars.

Additionally, Councilman Jack Orris would like to see $50,000 from the budget removed for the town’s planning legal consultant. The council supported

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SENIOR SCHOLAR ATHLETES

The Bayside Conference Senior Scholar Athlete Awards Banquet was held this week. Pictured, from left, are Jamir Roberts, Pocomoke High; Samuel

Suarezapecheche, Snow Hill High; and Hailey Laine, Pocomoke High.

Berlin council makes $389K

Continued from Page 27

the move.

Tyndall cautioned against this action. He said the move could have financial and legal repercussions for the municipality.

“Some of [the cuts] I think we need to evaluate together, like the direction we want to go in, particularly for the planning department,” he said. “I see we cut the legal fees, which is fine. I hear the group. But we also need to make sure we have a plan for addressing that, because we’ve had years without legal support in the planning office…We enacted a contract to be able to have those services take place in the planning office and in many respects it has saved the Town of Berlin substantial costs associated with legal challenges that may have arisen from previous decisions…I understand there are votes to pull that but I think that is a poor, short-sighted decision by this body.”

The July 3 fireworks were also discussed as a potential cut, getting the deficit down to just under $50,000. The $50,000 includes about $30,000 in an operating request increases for the Berlin Fire Company.

At Monday’s meeting, Tyndall introduced an increased tax rate at 84 cents per $100 of assessed value. This is a penny and a quarter of a penny more than the town’s current tax rate of $0.8275 per $100 of assessed value, and would generate $5.3 million in revenue for the town, or an increase of about $80,000.

The mayor added that this rate hike could be lowered to a penny due to the cuts debated this week. An additional penny on the tax rate would yield $64,000 more than current tax projections.

Council members Nichols, Steve Green, Jay Knerr, and Jack Orris said that they were against any tax rate increase at this time and would like to see the current rate retained.

Saleh argued that a modest increase would be financially responsible.

“I have advocated for an incremental tax increase every single year,” she said. “...Cutting the projects, deleting the capital, not replacing the vehicles that are old and dilapidated…we are repeating the histories of the past. We have had many years without a rate increase, and we will jump high, damaging households with the payments. A penny and a quarter [of a penny] is $60 for the year. That is significant for some, but if you divide it into 12 months…it is not financially sustainable to delay projects.”

A public hearing on the proposed tax rate will be held on May 11 during the mayor and council meeting at the Berlin Library. The open session will kick off at 6 p.m. The first reading of the FY27 budget is set for May 26, and a public hearing on the budget and adoption by the council is scheduled for June 8.

Hurney, Snow Hill High; Colin Pennington, Stephen Decatur High; Superintendent Annette Wallace; Bailey Griffin, Stephen Decatur High; Allie

36th Annual Cruisin underway in Ocean City

(May 1, 2026) The 36th Annual Cruisin Ocean City, presented by Chesapeake Classic Restorations, began yesterday in Ocean City and runs through May 3.

This nationally recognized event attracts more than 3,000 customs, hot rods, street machines, classics and more. The main events take place at the beachside Inlet Parking Lot and the OC Convention Center.

Scheduled to appear at this year's Cruisin, from the hit series “Flying Sparks Garage” is Emily & Aaron Reeves, who will be at the Inlet Friday

and Sunday and inside the OC Convention Center on Saturday. They will also be bringing their Peterbilt, Optimus Grime, for spectators to check out. Joining the fun will be Alison Arngrim and Dean Butler, from the classic show Little House on the Prairie. Alison and Dean will be inside the Convention Center Friday and at the Inlet on Saturday. Inside the OC Convention Center there will be the Smokey and the Bandit tribute car on display plus feature cars Friday and Saturday.

Additional entertainment includes Deejay Seaside Jimmy, Cruisin Gold

Deejay, the 11th Annual Pin Up Contest, a Neon & LED light car show, a pedal car show, live music and much more.

Some of the country’s top national names will be showcasing their products in manufacturers midway at the Inlet Parking Lot including Advance Auto Parts, AMSOIL, B&E Fabrications, Bruno’s Classic Muscle, Cabela’s, Chesapeake Classic Restorations, Chevy Performance, Classic Auto Mall, Coker Tire, Commercial Insurance Associates, Edelbrock, Erin’s Way, Euroshine USA, Golden Star Auto Parts, Morton’s Towing, National Parts Depot, OPTIMA,

Oceanfront Townhome Panoramic Views

Southern Rods & Parts, Vibrant Health, Wildfire Lifts and more. Inside the OC Convention Center there will also be Gateway Classic Cars as well as venders selling automotive equipment plus Arts & Crafts and a Swap Meet Friday and Saturday.

Additional Cruisin Ocean City highlights are the special Boardwalk Cruises that will take place Friday and Saturday mornings beginning at 27th Street and heading south into the Inlet. This is a chance for cars to get to cruise down the iconic OC Boardwalk and for spectators See CRUISIN Page 34

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Cruisin offers morning parades

to sit back and relax and watch them cruise by.

On Sunday, the Grand Finale Awards will take place at the Beachside Inlet. Before Cruisin comes to an end there will be more than 500 trophies, plaques and awards presented plus over 3,000 giveaways.

Spectator tickets are $15 a day for Thursday, Friday & Saturday and $10 a day for Sunday, good at the Inlet and OC Convention Center, and can be purchased at both locations. Children under 14 are free with an adult.

Show hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Friday and Saturday at the Inlet and inside and outside the OC Convention Center, and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday at the Inlet location only, with the Grand Finale Awards starting at 2pm. For additional infor-

mation visit www.cruisinoceancity.com.

A press release from the event promoter reminded attendees to be mindful of existing laws and common courtesies. The statement read, “Cruisin OC has always held safety as our number one priority. The event does not tolerate unlawful activities or the disrespect of Ocean City. During Cruisin the town of Ocean City will be classified as a Special Event Zone where there will be increased fines for speeding, negligent/reckless driving, spinning wheels and alcohol related offenses.

“We encourage everyone that comes to Ocean City for Cruisin, both participants and spectators, to respect the town and abide by the rules. Your cooperation will be greatly appreciated. We look forward to a wonderful and safe Cruisin for 2026 and years to come.”

Continued from Page 31

BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Attendees to last spring’s Cruisin event are pictured during the Inlet parking lot car show.

Community Foundation sets record with grant funding

(May 1, 2026) The Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore (CFES) distributed a record $346,263 in grant funding to 47 area nonprofits through its annual Community Needs grant cycle. These grants support organizations addressing critical issues across the Lower Shore, including housing stability, food security, health care, youth development, and environmental stewardship. These investments strengthen the network of nonprofits serving Wicomico, Worcester, and Somerset vounties.

Applicants must be 501c3 nonprofit organizations, faith-based organizations providing non-sectarian programs, or community programs within government agencies serving citizens on the Lower Eastern Shore of Maryland. The next Community Needs cycle will open January 1st, 2027, with a grant maximum of $10,000.

The following nonprofits received funding for programs and general operations: American Red Cross Delmarva will provide care and recovery services to families affected by home fires.

Art League of Ocean City will provide inclusive arts education for youth, individuals with disabilities, and seniors.

Believe In Tomorrow Children’s Foundation will perform repairs on the Children’s House by the Sea respite property.

Catholic Charities Inc. Seton Center provides emergency assistance and support services to vulnerable populations.

Chesapeake Housing Mission builds wheelchair ramps and accessibility modifications for low-income households.

Coastal Hospice provides hospice and palliative care services to low-income individuals and families.

Della’s Closet will purchase fresh produce to support monthly food distribution events in Worcester County.

Delmarva Discovery Center & Museum will support museum operations.

Delmarva Makerspace provides hands-on STEM learning and skill-building programs for community members.

Delmarva Public Media will expand local radio news coverage through new reporting partnerships.

Diakonia, Inc. provides shelter, food assistance, and support services for individuals experiencing homelessness.

Droppin’ the Beat will expand its artsbased mentorship and music education program for disadvantaged youth.

Epoch Dream Center provides free after-school and summer programs for under-resourced youth in Wicomico County.

Figi 4 the Kids provides preventionfocused programming, mentoring, and community support for youth and families in Somerset County.

Furnace Town Foundation preserves, restores, and interprets the 25 acres of Furnace Town Historic Site.

Girl Scouts of the Chesapeake Bay will reduce barriers to participation in youth development programs.

Girls on the Run of the Greater Chesapeake provides social-emotional learning and leadership development for girls.

Habitat for Humanity of Wicomico County builds and subsidizes homes for low-income families.

Help and Outreach Point of Entry will provide case management and financial assistance to help individuals obtain vital identification documents.

LiFT Church will outfit its Mobile Dream Center to deliver food, clothing, and necessities to individuals in need.

Lower Shore Autism Community will support staffing to expand services for families affected by autism.

Lower Shore Enterprises will provide grief and loss counseling for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Lower Shore Land Trust will develop See GRANTS Page 37

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Grants awarded to local groups

Continued from Page 35

the Church Street Community Garden and pollinator habitat.

MAC will support staffing for its Guardianship program, serving as Guardian of Last Resort for elderly individuals.

Maryland Food Bank will support operations at its Salisbury distribution center.

Minds in Motion Children’s Museum will host a STEM-focused summer camp for youth.

Ocean City Museum Society will purchase equipment to enhance educational programming.

Salisbury Neighborhood Housing Services provides housing and financial education services to local residents.

Salisbury Urban Ministries provides a variety of youth, food pantry, and prescription assistance programs.

Seaside Toolbox Academy will deliver hands-on career exploration programs in the skilled trades.

Shore Legal Access, Inc. provides free civil legal services to individuals and families in need.

Smith Island United works to preserve and advocate for the cultural and environmental heritage of Smith Island.

Somerset County Historical Society will restore and preserve elements of the historic Teackle Mansion.

Somerset County Judy Center Partnership will provide family education and workforce advancement initiatives.

Special Olympics Maryland provides athletic opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

St. Vincent de Paul Conference of Ocean City provides food, housing, and utility assistance to those in need.

Symphony 21 provides music education programming for local youth.

The Affiliated Sante Group will replace critical technology supporting mobile crisis response services.

The Salisbury Zoo will expand access to environmental education for elementary students.

The Society of St. Andrew, Inc. supports gleaning programs to distribute fresh produce to food-insecure households.

Tri Community Mediation will expand mediation services for students in Somerset County schools.

Unstoppable Joy Co provides holistic support services for individuals battling cancer and their caregivers.

Village of Hope Inc. will enhance transportation services for women in transitional housing.

Wicomico Environmental Trust provides environmental preservation and stewardship programming.

Worcester County Arts Council will create marketing materials to highlight the impact of the arts.

Worcester County GOLD provides emergency financial assistance to Worcester County residents in need.

YMCA of the Chesapeake Inc. will expand programming for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease.

Somerset Jewelers to mark 50 years on OC’s Boardwalk

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 1, 2026) Be involved. Watch out for trends. Keep it affordable.

That, according to owner Jimmy Miller, is what has kept Somerset Jewelers in business for the last five decades.

“I’m on my third generation, fourth generation of selling to customers,” he said. “And it’s something I’m proud of, spending 50 years building up a small business like this.”

Somerset Jewelers’ story began in 1976, when Miller opened a small gift shop in the lobby of the Fenwick Inn hotel. That year, Miller received free rent in exchange for building out and operating the store.

But even then, Miller said he knew

V TE BILL MURPHY for CITY COUNCIL

As Your City Council Member I Will Address these Issues

Is There a Hidden Agenda Behind the New Occupancy Rules?

There has been a lot of talk lately about "Affordable Housing." But we have to ask the tough question: At what cost to you?

Evidence is mounting that the new, restrictive Short-Term Rental (STR) occupancy limits and aggressive inspection protocols aren’t about safety—they are a targeted strike against the Airbnb investor market.

The Strategy is Clear:

• Drastically lower occupancy limits to make rental properties unprofitable.

• Pressure property owners who rely on rental income to liquidate their assets.

• Flood the market with forced sales to artificially drive down property values.

The Math Doesn’t Lie

Since my first advertisement exposed these flawed inspection and occupancy issues, the OCMD Rental Alliance has released a detailed mathematical breakdown. Their analysis confirms exactly what I’ve been saying: The city’s new math simply doesn’t add up. We cannot allow "affordability" to be used as a front for a government-mandated housing crash that strips local owners of their equity and their livelihoods. Demand Transparency. Protect Your Property Rights.

Background

• Masters in Math, Retired from HBO as Director Data Services, 10 years on Board of Directors Decatur House, 12th Street & the Boardwalk, as secretary & President. Current Town of OC Bus Driver-since 2014.

OC Property Owner since 1995 & Full-time Resident since 2013 Paid for by Bill Murphy • bill.ocmd@aol.com

he wanted to be at the Boardwalk. The following summer, Somerset Jewelers opened a location on the boards, between Somerset and Wicomico streets.

“The next year, I had an opportunity to open up a store on the Boardwalk from the Purnell family, who owned the historic Atlantic Hotel …,” he said. “And they’ve been my landlords for the last 50 years. A wonderful family.”

Miller said his store started out selling sterling silver pieces, which he sourced from craftsmen in Taxco, Mexico. Each winter, he would travel to the town and work with artisans to set precious stones into one-of-a-kind sterling silver pieces.

“I think that hands-on experience helped shape the identity of the store,” he said. “Because I was able to buy different things.”

In the years that followed, Miller began developing relationships with craftsmen around the world, from Italy to Thailand and even in the United States. Those connections, he said, allowed him to build up a large network of suppliers to create high-quality – yet affordable – sterling silver pieces for the store.

“That’s what helped Somerset grow into the jewelry shop that it is today,” he said.

Miller would spend the next several years building up a successful business from scratch. The store was so successful, he added, that he soon opened a second location at the former Dunes Manor hotel at 28th Street. The sister store remained in operation for about 25 years.

Today, Somerset Jewelers continues to specialize in handcrafted sterling silver jewelry. Miller even goes so far as to call himself a “purist” when it comes to keeping sterling silver in his store.

“I found my little niche, and found my product to put in that little niche,” he said. “And it really worked out well … and it continues to work today.”

But Miller doesn’t just credit his success to the unique items found in his shop. He also acknowledged the core group of employees who have stood by his side, including Yvonne Mayer, who has worked at Somerset Jewelers for 39 years.

“Business probably wouldn’t be what it is today without their dedication,” he said.

In celebration of its 50th anniversary, Somerset Jewelers will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony next Friday, May 8, from 4-7 p.m. The celebration will include a raffle, swag bags and various discounts on store merchandise.

“We hope to have a nice little turnout, for people to celebrate 50 years on the Boardwalk,” Miller said.

For more information on Somerset Jewelers, visit somersetjewelers.com or check out the store’s social media pages.

BETHANY HOOPER/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Somerset Jewelers has rented space from the Purnell family on the Boardwalk for the last 50 years.

Maryland to recognize local trail partnership with award

ground up, keeping only the trail route.

(May 1, 2026) The Beach to Bay Heritage Area and the Pocomoke Indian Nation will be receiving the Excellence in Preservation Partnership Award from the Maryland Historical Trust on May 14 at 1 p.m. at the Delmarva Discovery Museum in Pocomoke City. The award recognizes the collaborative work on the History, Heritage & Homelands Trail.

The Pocomoke Indian Nation and Beach to Bay Heritage Area have redefined a regional heritage trail through a transformative partnership. The initiative serves as a flagship model for preservation where descendant communities lead the narrative from its inception.

History Heritage and Homeland of Maryland’s Lower Eastern Shore is a re-imagination of the former Beach to Bay Indian Trail which was designated a National Recreation Trail in 1993. In partnership with the Pocomoke Indian Nation, the interpretive material around the trail was completely revamped from the

The trail spans over 100 miles through lands once called home by several indigenous groups, many of them part of the Pocomoke Paramountcy. New interpretive material, including a guidebook and 11 interpretive signs, were created using primary source resources researched by the Pocomoke Indian Nation. The guidebook maps out the historic boundaries of each tribal homeland while also elaborating on the Indigenous Peoples’ connection to the landscape, identifying sites of cultural significance, and shares their interactions with Europeans through historic records.

This recreation has rectified the errors of the past by converting a route that referenced Native American heritage only in name, into an authentic and meaningful educational experience.

It has been labeled the most comprehensive guide to Native American history on the lower shore to date and one that acknowledges the presence of Indigenous Peoples in the past while encouraging reflection on their continued presence.

SPRINGFEST IN REVIEW

The first two days of Springfest featured picture-perfect spring weather, highlighting some new activities such as chalk art on the Inlet parking lot pavement that impressed

some other scenes from Friday. The rain and wind came on Saturday and Sunday, resulting in

JOLLY JELLYFISH

Berlin looks to tweak ready-to-serve policy

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(May 1, 2026) The Berlin Town Council will take steps to strengthen enforcement of long-overdue utility payments by giving staff more time to warn residents that these bills must be paid or the homeowner will have to forfeit their water and wastewater allocations (Equivalent Dwelling Units).

During a Town Council meeting on Monday, officials presented a first reading of an amendment to the town’s Ready to Serve ordinance, which regulates fees tied to Equivalent Dwelling

Units (EDUs). Under the current standards, property owners who fail to pay these fees for three consecutive months risk forfeiting their reserved EDUs.

The proposed change would extend that window to six months.

Town Attorney David Gaskill said the adjustment is intended to help staff better manage the enforcement, as the rule has historically been ignored.

“This ordinance has never been enforced,” Gaskill said. “We have people who owe thousands and thousands of dollars, and we never formally forfeited their EDU. So, what staff wants to do is

send out letters to people who are behind, letting them know that if they do not pay their thousands of dollars that they owe, we’re going to take the EDU back.”

Under the revision, the town would begin notifying delinquent property owners of their outstanding balances and caution that failure to pay could result in losing their EDU allocation. If forfeited, property owners would have to repurchase an EDU at current rates before moving forward with development.

Tyndall noted the town has already begun taking a more aggressive ap-

proach on unpaid balances, particularly for larger debts.

“What we have done internally is start a policy that at $5,000, we start to evaluate that and then try and seek judgment against folks that owe over $5,000 because it’s not right to carry a bill more than that,” he said. “We have seen bills high as $100,000. We are going through and saying, ‘Hey look, that’s not right.’ We’re going to take judgements on these things and pull back those ready to serve EDUs if you’re not paying for them.”

The modification will be on the agenda for public hearing on May 11.

Best Beats On The Beach

Who’s Where When

BUXY’S SALTY DOG & DRY DOCK 28

410-289-BUXY

28th Street Coastal Hwy. Saturday, May 2: Aaron Howell

CAPTAIN’S TABLE

410-289-7192

15th & Boardwalk In The Courtyard Marriott Friday & Saturday, May 1 & 2: Phil Perdue

COCONUTS BEACH BAR

410-289-6846

Oceanfront At Castle In The Sand Hotel 37th & 38th Streets Thursday, May 7: Endless Summer & Kevin Poole & Joe Mama

COINS PUB

410-289-3100

28th Street Plaza On Coastal Hwy. Friday, May 1: Billy Zee’s Dueling Pianos Saturday, May 2: First Class

CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE

302-988-5000 37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54, Selbyville, DE Sunday, May 3:

Medium Wave Jay Wednesday, May 6: Fil Rhythm

FAGER’S ISLAND

410-524-5500

60th St., In The Bay Friday, May 1: No Go Romeo & DJ Vybe

Saturday, May 2: Making Waves, Vertigo Red & DJ Cruz

Monday, May 4: Deck Party ~ Tranzfusion & DJ RobCee

HARBORSIDE

410-213-1846

South Harbor Rd., West End O.C.

Fridays: DJ Billy T Saturday, May 2: Rogue Citizens & DJ Bigler Sundays: Opposite Directions

DJ ROBCEE Fager’s Island: Mon., May 4

PHIL PERDUE Captain’s Table: Fridays & Saturdays

CHARLIE TRAVERS Purple Moose: Sat., May 2

DJ BIGLER Harborside: Sat., May 2

DJ MARY JANE Seacrets: Fri., May 1

CARLEY TWIGG Cantina Los Agaves: Tues., May 5 Seacrets: Thurs., May 7

DJ BILLY T Harborside: Fridays

DJ WAX Pickles Pub: Tuesdays Jolly Jellyfish: Thurs., May 7

FIL RHYTHM Crabcake Factory Bayside: Wed., May 6

DJ PAPI Purple Moose: Fridays & Saturdays

TRANSFUSION

Fager’s Island: Deck Party ~ Monday, May 4

LITHIUM & CANDY

Purple Moose: Friday & Saturday, May 1 & 2

DUO

Salty Dog: Saturday, May 2

THE DUNEHOUNDS

Pickles Pub: Saturday, May 2 • 5pm

LOST IN PARIS

Seacrets: Saturday, May 2

FIRST CLASS

Coins Pub: Saturday, May 2

OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS

Harborside: Sunday, May 3

KEVIN POOLE & JOE MAMA Coconuts Beach Bar: Thursday, May 7

Who’s Where When

Thursdays: Dust N Bones

JOLLY JELLYFISH BEACH CLUB

443-664-6147

98th Street Coastal Hwy., Plaza Condominium

Thursday, May 7: DJ Wax

PICKLES PUB

410-289-4891

8th St. & Philadelphia Ave.

Friday, May 1: Spankd & Beats By DeoGee

Saturday, May 2: Dunehounds (5pm) & Chesapeake Sons (9pm)

Monday, May 4: Karaoke w/ Wood

Tuesdays: Beats By Wax

Thursdays: Beats By Connair

PURPLE MOOSE SALOON

410-289-6953

Between Caroline & Talbot Sts. On The Boards

Friday, May 1:

Lithium & Candy & DJ Papi

Saturday, May 2: Charlie Travers (2pm), Lithium & Candy & DJ Papi

SEACRETS

410-524-4900

49th St. & Coastal Hwy.

Friday, May 1: Faith Noel, DJ E-State, DJ Mary Jane & Steal The Sky

Saturday, May 2: Swarm Of Bees, DJ Connair, DJ E-State, Lost In Paris & DJ Bobby O

Sunday, May 3: DJ Davie

Monday & Tuesday, May 4 & 5: DJ J-Spin

Wednesday, May 6: DJ E-State Thursday, May 7: Carley Twigg & DJ J-Spin

Join Us At

AARON HOWELL

Buxy’s

Dining Guide

■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$

■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted

DOWNTOWN

South end to 28th Street

■ BUXY’S SALTY DOG SALOON DRY DOCK 28

28th Street, Ocean City, 410-289-0973, buxys.com, drydockoc.com

Destiny has a new home in Ocean City. From the ‘burgh to the beach, Buxy’s is your home away from Pittsburgh. Come see what all the locals already know and have known – Buxy’s is the place to come to meet friends, relax and be social with no attitudes. House specialties include “The” Cheesesteak Sub, Primanti-styled sandwiches, pierogis, egg-rolls and homemade crab dip. Dry Dock also features a full menu with soups, salads, kick starters, pierogis and craft pizza.

■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE

15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, in The Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City 410-2897192, captainstableoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

A local tradition for over 60 years featuring hand cut steaks, premium lobster and perfectly prepared regional seafood. Breakfast daily 7:30-11 a.m. Open daily for dinner: Sunday through Thursday, 4-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4-10 p.m. Happy Hour, seven days a week, 4-6 p.m.

■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT

28th Street Plaza and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100, www.coinspuboc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

American style local restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. Sunday’s early bird specials, all day and all night. Happy Hour; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. with food and drink specials. Open Monday through Friday, 2 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 11:30 a.m. 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.

■ DISTRICT 24: BLUE CRABHOUSE& RAW BAR, JAY’S CAFÉ, CRAFT BEER & 1945 STEAK & SEAFOOD HOUSE

2305 Philadelphia Ave, Ocean City 410289-3322, district24oc.com

$$-$$$ | Reservations | Kids’ Menu | Full bar

Nestled on 24th Street Bayside in Ocean City, Maryland, District 24 stands as one destination brimming with endless possibilities. On the first floor, Blu Crabhouse & Raw Bar invites you to indulge in all-you-can-eat blue crabs, easy-peel shrimp, golden fried chicken, and so much more, while Jay’s Café serves breakfast sandwiches all day alongside La Colombe coffee, fresh pastries, and delicious lunch creations. Just steps away, CRAFT Bar delivers smash burgers, crispy wings, craft pizzas, an impressive selection of craft beer, handcrafted cocktails, and more. Rising above it all on the third floor, the stunning new 1945 Steak & Seafood offers breathtaking rooftop views, in-house hand-cut chops, exceptional seafood favorites, vibrant Mediterranean cuisine, and thoughtful bourbon and wine pairings. Let’s face it—there’s simply more at District 24.

■ HARBOR WATCH

806 S. Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City 410289-5121, www.harborwatchrestaurant.com

$$-$$$ | Reservations | Kids’ Menu | Full bar Celebrating our 42nd year with fresh seafood, an award-winning raw bar, mouthwatering steaks and the best view of the Ocean City Inlet and Assateague Island. Open all March, Thursday through Sunday. Sunday Brunch, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (excluding Easter), $29 for adults, $16 for children 6-12 years.

Happy Hour: Thursday and Sunday, all night long featuring $4 all beer, $8 crushes, $10 select apps, $6 glass of select wine. Call for banquet and large-party details.

■ 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.

■ THE WEDGE BAR

806 S. Atlantic Ave, Ocean City www.thewedgeoc.com

$-$$ | Full bar

Panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, bay and Assateague Island. Enjoy small plates, sandwiches and grilled burgers. Open Thursday through Sunday, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

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

■ 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, 410-213-1500

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

■ HARBORSIDE BAR & GRILL

12841 Harbor Rd., West Ocean City, 410213-1846, weocharborside.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Home of the original Orange Crush drink with an extensive menu offers a wide variety of appetizers, fresh seafood, steak & pasta entrees, as well as juicy burgers and sandwiches. Whether seeking a full dining experience or just a crush or two, the team will be sure to take excellent care of you and yours. Monday-Wednesday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thursday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Room

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(May 1, 2026) The Town of Berlin is pursuing the possibility of paying for parking improvements in public and quasi-public lots with a slice of local room tax revenue.

At the Town Council meeting Monday, council members approved a proposal by Councilman Jack Orris that will allocate 10% of the town’s room tax revenue to parking-related expenses, with the remaining 90% directed to the general fund.

The plan reflects conversations held during last week’s budget work session, where officials revisited how to best use increased hotel tax revenue.

Last year, Worcester County agreed to allow municipalities to charge up to 6% in tax on rental fees (up from 5%) on short-term rentals of four months or less. That action went into effect on January 1. Now, Berlin leaders have found a way to distribute the additional revenue in a way that’s beneficial for the town’s finances.

This week, the council approved to allocate some of the room tax revenue to parking lot repairs, which have been estimated to be about $1 million.

“This is reflective of the discussion at the budget work session,” explained Town Administrator Mary Bohlen Monday night. “Based on the increase in the room tax percentage, we are allocating 10% of the total revenue to parking.”

Mayor Zack Tyndall asked whether the change would create a dedicated parking fund. Finance Director Natalie Saleh clarified that the allocation would instead appear as a separate line item in the budget, rather than a formal fund, which would require additional administrative costs and staffing.

“At the end of the fiscal year, we will take 10% from room tax and set it aside,” she said. “We are going to open a new savings account in the bank, but it is not a fund.”

Councilman Steve Green described the move as a “baby step” toward addressing long-standing parking and infrastructure needs. He noted that previous discussions about implementing paid parking met resistance from local business owners.

“We had half a dozen or so meetings with businesses where paid parking was floated as an opportunity to try to fund some of the repairs that were needed in our infrastructure at public lots and quasi-public lots that are used publicly but privately owned,” he said.

“We were not getting anywhere with paid parking. It scared a lot of business owners. ... this is just setting aside an opportunity for tourism to pay for tourism. It’s going to take us quite a while for it to matter … we have $1 million of expenses. But it’s something, it’s a start.”

The Town Council agreed to establish the new parking line item.

vanishing vanishing OCEAN CITY

With BuNk MaNN

The winter of 1972-73 was an anxious time in Ocean City – there was an arsonist at work and nobody knew where he would strike next.

The first victim was the Colonial Hotel, built in 1897, which burned on Dec. 14, 1972. On Dec. 30, a fire was set at the Stowaway Motel on 22nd Street and 60 guests, clad in pajamas and bathrobes, scrambled to safety as flames leaped from Ocean City’s largest motel at the time. A third major blaze destroyed the old Roosevelt Hotel on Jan. 16, 1973.

Rewards were offered, and some hotel owners began spending the night guarding their buildings with rifles and shotguns. Many local residents were afraid to sleep fearing another fire while law enforcement agencies intensified their search for the so-called “firebug.” Small fires occurred at other locations, but the last major blaze took place at the Nordica, an aging Boardwalk hotel on Jan. 25, 1973. It has been nearly half a century since the “firebug arsons” but this chapter of Ocean City history remains a mystery. The arsonist’s identity and the reason for the fires remain unknown.

To purchase one of Bunk Mann's books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com. Photo from after the Nordica fire courtesy Sam Villani Jr.

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

Short, productive meetings

Saying hello to strangers

Upsets in NBA playoff series

Looking through old yearbooks

Taylor House Museum’s exhibits

When a good plan works out

Neighbors who are good friends

Funny police beat stories

Playing sports with my sons

Not seeing a restaurant’s kitchen while eating

LIBERTY TREE PLANTED

On Saturday, April 25, the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum celebrated the planting of a liberty tree on its lawn. This planting is part of a larger statewide initiative to commemorate the nation's 250th birthday. Each of Maryland's 23 counties and Baltimore City will be given a seedling derived from the only surviving genetically identical Liberty Tree scion in the United States — descended from Maryland’s original 1775 Liberty Tree in Annapolis. Maryland's Liberty Tree, a Tulip Poplar at St. John's College, was the last remaining original Liberty Tree until 1999 when it was destroyed by a hurricane. At right, applying the first shovels of dirt to the new addition are, from left, Senator Mary Beth Carozza, Commissioner Diana Purnell, Berlin Councilman Steve Green and Museum

President Melissa Reid, also pictured below left during the ceremony. PHOTOS

COURTESY OF BEACH-TO-BAY

by Steve Green

TThe Adventures of Fatherhood

he graduation announcements came home this week.

Three weeks from today, Beckett, 17, will take his final steps as a student on a campus he has called home for the last 14 years.

There is something special about graduating from the same school, Worcester Prep, where you once walked in as a prekindergartener with a backpack nearly as big as you were. It’s rare, and it’s meaningful in a way that’s hard to fully explain unless you’ve lived it. I remember leaving wearing sunglasses that morning 14 years ago because the emotions won.

It’s unique to walk those halls and realize many of the same teachers have been part of the journey all along — first grade, second grade, fifth grade, even into the high school years. The faces change a little, the roles evolve, but the continuity is something you don’t see much anymore.

And it makes you think.

I wonder what it’s like for the teachers, too. They certainly remember the seniors differently than we do. Where we see a young man ready to take on the world, they probably still catch glimpses of the little kid who sat in their classroom years ago — the one learning to read, being too goofy at the wrong time, raising his hand a little too eagerly, or maybe needing a little extra encouragement along the way.

They’ve watched the gradual transformation — not just academically, but personally. The confidence building. The personality emerging. The awkward phases, the growth spurts, the moments where things start to click.

As parents, we experience that evolution in real time, day by day. It’s subtle. It sneaks up on you. You don’t always notice the changes because you’re living inside them. One day you walk up to them and realize, “darn, you have grown.”

But teachers — especially in a place like this — get a different vantage point. They see the before and after more

clearly. They see the arc.

And now, here we are at the end of that chapter.

The announcements arriving made it all feel real in a way that nothing else has yet. Not the college decision. Not the orientation weekend. Not even the conversations about what comes next.

There’s something about seeing it printed, formalized, ready to be sent out into the world, that makes you pause.

This is happening.

In three weeks, there will be a walk across a stage, a handshake, a diploma — and just like that, a routine that has been in place for well over a decade will come to an end.

No more school uniforms. No more sports. No more musicals.

No more school events filling the calendar.

No more familiar rhythm of the academic year guiding the household.

It’s a strange feeling — part pride, part nostalgia, part disbelief.

Mostly pride.

Because when you really stop to think about it, this moment isn’t just about graduation. It’s about everything that led up to it. The early mornings. The homework at the kitchen table. The practices, the performances, the friendships, the challenges, the disappointments, the wins, the agitations.

All of it.

And for Beckett, there’s been a lot to be proud of — especially these last couple years, where he found something that truly meant something to him. Watching him grow through his involvement in theater, seeing the confidence build, the connections form, the sense of belonging take hold — those are the kinds of things you hope your child experiences.

Those are the things that last.

It’s easy to focus on the milestone ahead — the ceremony, the celebration — but what I keep coming back to are the moments that got him there. The small ones. The everyday ones. The ones that didn’t feel like much at the time but, collectively, made up the experience.

That’s what 14 years in one place re-

ally represents.

It’s not just time. It’s layers of memories stacked on top of each other — classrooms, teachers, classmates, seasons of life — all connected to the same place.

And now, it’s time to leave it.

That’s the part that feels a little heavy.

Not in a sad way, exactly. More in a reflective way. A recognition that something meaningful is coming to a close, and it deserves to be acknowledged.

There’s a quote I’ve always liked about parenting — that we don’t get to keep our kids, we get to raise them. Moments like this bring that into sharp focus.

The goal was never to keep him in those hallways forever. We are as ready for him to move on as he is.

The goal was to prepare him to walk out of them.

Still, that doesn’t make it easy to picture that final walk.

I imagine, on graduation day, there will be a mix of emotions in that space — for the students, the parents, and yes, the teachers, too. Pride, certainly. Excitement for what’s next. But also a quiet appreciation for what was.

Because for some of those teachers, this isn’t just another graduating class. It’s a group of kids they’ve known for years — in some cases, most of their lives.

That’s special.

And for us, as parents, it’s a reminder of how quickly it all goes.

Fourteen years sounds like a long time.

It isn’t.

Not when you’re looking back on it.

But maybe that’s the point.

It’s not about how long it lasts. It’s about what fills that time.

And in this case, it’s been filled with more than enough to be grateful for. Three weeks to go.

(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.)

Still searching for consistency with spring’s weather

By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer

(May 1, 2026) By now we should be having more consistent spring weather. As we know, spring time in this area can be more of a latent winter, especially at the beach. This is due to water temperatures generally lagging behind air temperatures.

We are basically surrounded by water via the Delaware and Chesapeake bays, the Atlantic Ocean and various river tributaries. Fortunately, the sub-freezing readings of harsh winter are behind us but it seems to be a good idea to have a few pieces of winter clothing or wetsuit gear on hand, just in case.

A lot of surfers gravitate to other activities on the water. Getting to surf able waves by boat can have a certain quality and uniqueness. It’s another way of adding to the fun and experience. Having a boat requires one’s attention. Whether powered by sail or motor time, effort, money, and a few other factors all come into play. Some of these other factors will include having a place to park or store the vessel, be it on land or in the water. Having at least a basic knowledge of seamanship should also be a requisite.

A good analogy might be like operating a car or truck, except, of course, that the roadway becomes the waterway. Rules of the road become rules of the water and all the parameters that go along with it. Things like speed limits, rights of way, and knowing the depth of the water to be traversed are all pertinent.

Getting to surf able waves by boat is another way of transport. Just be sure to be well versed, at least on a cursory level, on what is needed to be safe at sea. — Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH ESSAY CONTEST

WINNER

Congratulations to Worcester Preparatory School’s fourth grade student Jacques Hillion for earning the title of District 1 Essay Winner in the Maryland Municipal League's (MML) "If I Were Mayor, I Would…” 2026 Essay Contest. Each year, 4th-grade students across the state participate in the “If I Were Mayor, I Would…” essay contest, and this year’s theme is “90 Years Strong: Where Tradition Meets Innovation”, encouraging students to identify a tradition they value in their community and imagine how, as mayor, they would carry that tradition 90 years into the future. Jacques thoughtful and creative submission distinguished itself among hundreds of entries in his district, identifying the Berlin Christmas Parade as the tradition he valued the most. Pictured at the State House are, from left, teacher Hannah Purnell, Hillion and Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall.

NURSERY RYHME UNIT

The Nursery Rhyme unit at Ocean City Elementary sailed to a joyful finish as Bowen Arthur, Nash Hourihan and Kade Deppe of Mrs. Fohner’s PreK-4 Class brought “Row, Row, Row Your Boat” to life in a delightful performance for their classmates and families.  Dressed in sailor attire, the young learners worked together to act out the classic rhyme.

ESSAY CONTEST WINNERS

YOUTH ART SHOW WINNERS FROM WPS

Worcester Preparatory School congratulated six students who were recognized at the Shirley Hall Youth Art Exhibit, held March 6 at the Art League of Ocean City. Sophomore Ellie Phillips earned first place in the high school category for her piece titled “Cool Thought.” Worcester Prep students also achieved outstanding success in the middle school division, sweeping multiple top honors. Jaylen Lamb earned 1st place for “The Lighthouse,” followed by Alessia Ziman with 2nd place for “Eyeball,” and Elena Kappes with 3rd place for “Pretty Bridge.” Ronit Poddar (“Ode to Remington”) and Tobi Blaska (“Pecker the Chicken”) each received Honorable Mention recognition. Pictured, from left, are Phillips; Lamb; Ziman; Kappes; Poddar; and Blaska.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

UPDATE

The Republican Women’s Club of Worcester County held a Welcome Home Senator Marybeth Carroza and Delegate Wayne Hartman at their April General Meeting and Luncheon. The elected officials are pixctured with club member Jennie Allen.

BIG BROTHERS/BIG SISTERS SPEAKER

On Wednesday, April 15, the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean PinesOcean City hosted Program Specialist Kaitlyn Johnson with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Eastern Shore, where she connects youth with caring adult mentors across Wicomico and Worcester Counties. She facilitates four to five new matches each month and has recently expanded to Worcester County, where several young people in the Ocean Pines area are currently waiting to be matched. Kaitlyn spoke about the impact of mentorship and how you can make a meaningful difference in a child’s life. The meeting was held at the Ocean Pines Community Center in the Assateague Room where the club donated $1,000 to the Big Brothers Big Sisters cause. Kiwanis President Sarah Walker, left, is pictured with Johnson.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Pictured are this year’s General Levin Winder Chapter of the DAR American History Essay Contest winners and runners-up from Worcester Preparatory School. Pictured, from left, are DAR Regent Sharon Moak; students Anya Murukutla (sixth grade runner-up), Carter Harrison (sixth grade winner), Elliana Arauz (seventh grade runner-up), Evan Kaufman (seventh grade winner), Emma Sherrin (eighth grade runner-up) and Lillian Ha (eighth grade winner) and DAR American History Committee Chair Shirley Moran.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH LEGISLATIVE

SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

The Rotary Club of Snow Hill announced the 2026 scholarship recipients from Snow Hill High School at the April 22 Teachers of the Year banquet. Pictured here are Bhoomika Chimnani, recipient of a Larry Knudsen Service Scholarship, Brianna McGlaughlin, recipient of a Laurel Anderson Nursing Scholarship; Savannah Wertz, recipient of a Larry Knudsen Service Scholarship; and Leland Green, Principal of Snow Hill High School. The Laurel Anderson scholarship is named

of longtime Club member and nurse. Larry Knudsen was a member and past president of the Snow Hill Rotary Club who is fondly remembered as an advocate for children and a proponent of community service.

Newspaper acquired

(May 1, 2026) Dave Messick, founder of Unscene Productions in West Ocean City, has acquired the Coastal Fisherman newspaper, a seasonal weekly newspaper dedicated to capturing the vibrant fishing culture of the Delmarva coastal community.

Still published weekly from May through September, Coastal Fisherman offers fishing reports, photos, stories, and recipes. While staying true to its roots, Messick and his crew are redefining the newspaper and embracing a new era of story telling. As subscriptions to the 2026 issues have begun selling, locals say that Unscene Productions has “breathed new life into the paper,”

“We knew this was the perfect fit for us, especially with our Hooked on OC show, this is right up our alley and we can’t wait for everyone to see what we’ve been working on,” said Messick.

Founded in 1976 by Dale Timmons, the paper became the best way for locals to find out what was happening on the water. After 20 years, the paper was taken over by Larry Jock, followed by Larry Budd, and finally leading to the crew at Unscene Productions.

New community opens

As the cost of homeownership continues to climb across the United States, a new manufactured home com-

munity on Maryland’s Eastern Shore is offering a different path forward—one that developers say could help ease the nation’s affordability crisis.

Located along the scenic St. Martin River, Riverview on the Water is redefining what entry-level homeownership can look like in today’s housing market. With waterfront views, modern manufactured homes, and access to coastal amenities, the community blends lifestyle appeal with lower-cost housing options.

Manufactured home communities like Riverview are gaining renewed attention as traditional site-built homes become increasingly out of reach for many Americans. By leveraging factory-built construction and land-lease models, these developments can significantly reduce upfront costs for buyers while still offering the benefits of homeownership.

At Riverview, residents can own a home in a professionally managed neighborhood while avoiding the high land acquisition costs that often drive up prices in coastal markets. The community promotes what industry experts call “attainable housing”—not subsidized, but priced within reach of working families and retirees.

Set along a river that connects to the Isle of Wight Bay and the beaches of Ocean City, Riverview offers a lifestyle typically associated with far more expensive real estate.

Residents have direct access to boating, fishing, kayaking, and crabbing,

along with walking trails and nearby resort towns.

Once stigmatized, modern manufactured housing has evolved significantly. Today’s homes often feature open floor plans, energy-efficient systems, and contemporary designs that rival conventional construction.

Communities like Riverview are also emphasizing neighborhood quality, with managed services, shared amenities, and cohesive planning—factors that help stabilize property values and improve long-term livability.

The timing of Riverview’s launch aligns with a broader housing shortage. Rising interest rates, limited inventory,

and escalating construction costs have pushed homeownership further out of reach for many first-time buyers.

Manufactured housing is increasingly viewed by policymakers and developers as a scalable solution. It can be built faster, at lower cost, and with less material waste than traditional homes. While not a cure-all, communities like Riverview represent a practical response to a pressing problem—offering a pathway to ownership in markets where affordability has all but disappeared.

A model is currently available at 12623 Shell Mill Road, Bishopville. 21813.

CROSSWORD

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

You approach a task with wisdom and insight this week, Aries. Your measured approach paves the way to finding a solution that will benefit all involved.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

It is key to treat yourself this week, Taurus. A purchase or experience could bring you long-term joy. Just be careful about spending too much.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, you are full of clever solutions more often than not. If there is a problem, you’re often the one who can crack it. This will be the case this week as well; your knack is put to the test.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, let others in and reap the rewards of a welcoming attitude. Your social circle expands and others embrace opportunities to spend time with you.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, start a project you have been thinking about as soon as possible, especially when the creative spark ignites. If you wait too long, the inspiration may vanish.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, you are surprisingly relaxed about something that used to stress you out a lot. Growth looks good on you, so remain committed to any positive changes you have implemented.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Romantic feelings or friendships seem to flow easily right now, Libra. Any connections you make will feel balanced and purposeful. Prioritize those who bring you the most joy.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, you are engaging every bit of energy you have to go into deep work mode. You will be focused and unstoppable for the next several days. Others may not see you for a while.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, good news or good timing show up just when you need it. It might provide the inspiration needed to start a project you’re excited about.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Family life is going very smoothly right now, Capricorn. Stability will prevail in the days ahead. Embrace the peaceful atmosphere and encourage others to follow suit.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Share your perspective with all who are ready to listen to your story, Aquarius. Keep in mind that your voice carries weight and you have the ability to spur change.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Your financial confidence grows, Pisces. You might see a salary increase at work, so now is the time to consider implementing some notable financial changes.

A vegetable, cheese terrine app

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer

(May 1, 2026) The art of entertaining takes time and preparation and an experienced host knows the importance of appetizers.

The first course is popular and for several reasons. An appetizer is meant to wet one’s appetite, show off the creativity of the chef, and is a prelude to the main course. It is also a great way to give the host more time, which is always a good thing.

If one had to ask what is the most popular appetizer? It’s hard to say for certain, but cheese balls are in the running for the top spot. Homemade cheese balls will take top honors for sure.

But creativity comes in many flavors, shapes, and ideas. One might be wondering where I am going with this? How can we create an appetizer that is loaded with cheese and is not a cheese ball, cheesy dip, or cheese tray?

A terrine is a French dish made with meats, seafood, vegetables, and even fruits. It also refers to the cov-

ered, glazed earthenware dish that gives the prepared food its classic look. Ingredients can be layered and put in the terrine in such a way that when you cut it, each slice reveals a pattern.

Fusion creates excitement and expands one’s repetoire of inspiration. Is it possible to combine the concept of a cheese ball and a terrine? Absolutely, allow me to explain.

We had a gathering at my mother’s estate, Harwood Farm, that included our staff and the horse boarders. I prepared fifteen dishes and the attendance was approximately thirty guests.

It just so happened that we were having a few friends over a few days later, and needless to say I was exhausted from our previous event. The idea of a terrine popped into my mind, and I knew instantly this would be a perfect appetizer. Contrary to popular belief, leftovers can be a good thing.

I chopped some of the leftover grilled vegetables and put them on the side. Then I sauteed spinach and strained it for any liquid. Finally, I had two packages of Boursin Cheese with Garlic and Fine Herbs which I did not use for our large gathering.

My list of ingredients was complete. I layered the individual components in the terrine, refrigerated overnight, and presented an appetizer that was a show stopper and tasted fantastic. If one is not familiar with terrines, let us take a closer look.

The thought of making a terrine can be intimidating at first. But once one understands the process of layering and how the ingredients are bound together; a whole new world of exploration and ingenuity are literally at one’s finger tips.

The first question that might come to one’s mind is, “Where can I purchase a terrine?” They are available online and come in many different sizes. The prices can range from very inexpensive to quite pricy.

Preparation of a terrine dish is crucial for successful plating. Lightly spray the terrine with cooking spray

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Perfect use of veggies, cheese

Continued from Page 55

and then place plastic wrap in the terrine dish with an overlay of about three inches. If you do not incorporate this step, it will be impossible to remove the terrine without disturbing the layers.

Color plays a significant role and is key to a whimsical terrine dish. Color increases the beauty of terrine and should be carefully thought out as one is considering the layers. In addition, color and the degree of its intensity influence our multisensory perception and triggers a number of physical and emotional reactions.

The actual layering is another key factor when creating a terrine. Layers must be precise if you want that beautiful layered look. And this is where it gets a little tricky, especially when working with creamy cheeses.

The cheese must be warm so it is spreadable, but then the cheese has a tendency to stick to the previous layer. So, you have to have patience and constantly consider the evenness of the layers.

There can not be any juices in the vegetable layers; otherwise, you will end up with juices running through the layers which is anything but attractive. Simply place vegetables in a mesh strainer, press down to strain,

and pat dry with paper towels. Also, the vegetables must be chopped, or it will not be fork friendly. This is a fragile dish which cannot be poked or chiseled at and be expected to hold its shape.

Terrines come with a flat weight and this is placed on top after you have completed your last layer. This weight helps set the layers for an even look. Then fold the plastic wrap so it covers the layers, and secure the cover of the terrine.

Finally, the terrine must be refrigerated overnight. This step is imperative because the layers become fortified with the cold temperatures. Plating is easy. Remove the terrine by carefully lifting it out by way of the plastic wrap. Remove the plastic wrap and place the terrine on serving plate accompanied with your favorite crackers.

In closing, if company is coming and you have leftover veggies, and want to highlight cheese, consider a vegetable and cheese terrine. It has the goodness of the fresh vegetables and generous layers of creamy cheese. Enjoy!

Secret Ingredient – Options

An artist has only two options: fail or never begin.

— Marty Rubin

Calendar

Submit calendar items to: editor@octodaydispatch.com. Submission deadline is 5 p.m. Monday, the week of publication. Local submissions have priority. Area event listings are subject to space availability.

Fri., May 1

36TH ANNUAL CRUISIN OCEAN CITY

Hugh T. Cropper Inlet Parking Lot, 809 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Also at the Ocean City Convention Center. Vendors, live music, boardwalk parades. Admission cost is $15 for adults and free to kids 13 years and younger. https://specialeventpro.com/cruisinocean-city, 410-798-6304

FAMILY FUN NIGHT BINGO NIGHT

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 6-8 p.m. Parents are requested to play the games with their children. Food and drinks welcome. Ice Cream for sale. Admission cost is $5. Prize donations accepted. 410-641-7052

PLAY TIME

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Join in for imaginative play and social interaction. For ages 0-5 years. 410-2084014, worcesterlibrary.org

OC MAHJONG CLUB

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

SURVIVAL SPANISH: FOOD

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Now’s your chance to learn another language. Learn food vocabulary. 410-2084014, worcesterlibrary.org

CURRENTLY READING BOOK CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Drop into this club to discuss what you are currently reading and share it with the group. Here’s the best way to get some great ideas on what to read next. 410208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

FIRST FRIDAY OPENING EXHIBITION: MAY 2026

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 5-7 p.m. Meet the artists, mingle, and enjoy free refreshments at this opening art exhibition, open to the public. 410524-9433, https://artleagueofoceancity.org/event/first-friday-openingreception-10/.

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS BINGO Columbus Hall, 9901 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 6:30 p.m. Doors open at 5

p.m. At least $1,000 in payouts and a chance for a $1,000 big jackpot at the end of the evening. Light snacks sold. 410-524-7994

Sat., May 2

36TH ANNUAL CRUISIN OCEAN CITY

Hugh T. Cropper Inlet Parking Lot, 809 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Also at the Ocean City Convention Center. Vendors, live music, boardwalk parades. Admission cost is $15 for adults and free to kids 13 years and younger. https://specialeventpro.com/cruisinocean-city, 410-798-6304

BERLIN SPRING CRUISIN

Historic Downtown Berlin, 124 N. Main St., 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Registration from 7-10 a.m. or until spaces fill up. Entry fee is $15. Award presentations and 50/50 drawing at 1:30 p.m. info@berlinchamber.org

CHURCH RUMMAGE SALE

First Presbyterian Church of Ocean City, 1301 Philadelphia Ave., 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Raindate is May 9th.

FLEA MARKET, CRAFTER AND BAKE SALE

Bethany United Methodist Church, 8648 Stephen Decatur Highway, Berlin, 8-11 a.m. Breakfast for sale, children’s craft table, live music and visit from Worcester County Pup. Event is held outside. Vendors, to reserve space: 410382-2661, marym8346@comcast.net.

CANCER AWARENESS WORKSHOP

TidalHealth John H. “Jack” Burbage, Jr. Cancer Center, 9707 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Learn more: 410-641-2626, nicole.fry@tidalhealth.org.

SEMI ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW

Elks Lodge #2645, 13708 Sinepuxent Ave., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Kitchen will be serving breakfast sandwiches, coffee and baked goods. ocelks.secretary@comcast.net

CRAFTY SATURDAY: MOTHER’S DAY

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Celebrate all mothers by creating a special craft. For families. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

SATURDAY WRITERS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10 a.m. Novice and established writers gather to

share their writing projects. Structure includes critiques and appreciation, market leads and writing exercises. Drop-ins welcome. 410-641-0650

FRIED & BAKED CHICKEN/FRIED FISH

DINNERS TO GO

Calvary United Methodist Church, 8607 Ironshire Station Road, Berlin, 10:30 a.m. Cost is $15 per platter. Platters come with two sides and a roll. Sides include pasta salad, string beans, mac salad, greens, cake, cornbread, etc. Soda and water for sale.

OC RAVENS ROOST #44 FUNDRAISER

ACE Hardware, 6807 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Grab a grilled hot dog and a bag of chips while shopping. Learn about the benefits of being a member of the Baltimore Ravens Fan Club.

MY TECH CLINIC

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Stop by and ask questions related to your devices and technology services. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

WELLNESS WALK

Pocomoke River State Park: Milburn Landing, 3036 Nassawango Road, Pocomoke City, 2 p.m. Join in for a mindful walk in the woods and explore simple practices to engage your senses and restore wellness. Registration required: 410-957-0878. worcesterlibrary.org

OCEAN PINES FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods. Also featuring family-friendly activities, music and unique shopping experiences. Open to the public, year round. 410-6417052, https://www.oceanpines.org/web/pages /farmers-artisans-market

Sun., May 3

36TH ANNUAL CRUISIN OCEAN CITY

Hugh T. Cropper Inlet Parking Lot, 809 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Also at the Ocean City Convention Center. Vendors, live music, boardwalk parades. Admission cost is $15 for adults and free to kids 13 years and younger. https://specialeventpro.com/cruisinocean-city, 410-798-6304

BERLIN FARMERS MARKET OPENING DAY

Historic Downtown Berlin, 124 N. Main St., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Producers only market, held every Sunday, May-October. Featuring 50+ farmers, food creators, brewers, meat, seafood, live music, petting farm, kids art station and more. TheBerlinFarmersMarket.com

SEWING FOR A CAUSE

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

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

Mon., May 4

MOVIE MATINEE: STAR WARS EPISODES IV-VI

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Come catch a classic trilogy you may have missed in theaters. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

THESE AREN’T THE DROIDS YOU’RE LOOKING FOR

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Go about your business and move along through the library to find the missing droids through a series of puzzles and activities. 410-957-0878, worcesterlibrary.org

STORY TIME: UNICORNS

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

GREAT BOOKS DISCUSSION

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2:30 p.m. Meet once a month to discuss selections from the Great Books Foundation. Currently reading “Bartleby the Scrivener” by Herman Melville. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP

TidalHealth John H. “Jack” Burbage, Jr. Cancer Center, 9707 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3-4 p.m. Meets the first Monday of each month. Learn more: 410-6412626, nicole.fry@tidalhealth.org.

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

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

BRIDGE

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

DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6:00-8:00

Continued on Page 58

CALENDAR

p.m. All ladies who love to sing invited. Elissa, 410-641-8050; on social media; or delmarvachorus.org.

OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS

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

Tues., May 5

FAITH-BASED PARTNERSHIP

TidalHealth Atlantic Chapel, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 10-11 a.m. Held the first Tuesday of each month in person or via Zoom meeting. Learn more: 410-641-9725, gail.mansell@tidalhealth.org.

STORY TIME: SEEDS

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 10:30 a.m. Crafts, songs and stories. For ages 0-5 years. 410-957-0878, worcesterlibrary.org

BABY TIME

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Songs, rhymes and stories. Stay after to socialize with other families. For ages 0-2 years. 410-632-5622

OC KNITTING GROUP

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

STORY TIME

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

MASTER GARDENERS PLANT CLINIC

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1-4 p.m. Bring any questions you have and feel free to show your plants as well. 410208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

UNLEASH YOUR CREATIVITY: AN INTRODUCTION TO JEWELRY MAKING

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Hands-on workshop for beginners. Learn the foundational techniques of creating your own wearable art. Registration required: 410-524-1818

CINCO DE MAYO WITH CASITA LINDA

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

Learn how to make a Hispanic dish with Michelle from Casita Linda. Registration required: 410-208-4014

CINCO DE MAYO

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

Learn about Cinco de Mayo, create a maraca and make a delicious hispanic dish with Casita Linda. For ages 8 years and older. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

OCEAN CITY LIONESS LIONS CLUB MEETING

Ocean City Lions Club, 12534 Airport Road, Berlin, 6 p.m. This community service organization meets the first Tuesday of each month. Any lady desiring to help those in need is welcome. 410-251-5824

CROSS FARMS POP-UP FARMERS MARKET

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

BEACH HEROES-OC

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

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY

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

OC KNITTING CLUB

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

ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE

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

ZUMBA TONING TUESDAYS

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

WEIGHT MANAGEMENT AND WELLNESS GROUP

Tuesdays - Holy Trinity Cathedral, 11021 Worcester Highway, 2-2:45 p.m. Use the weight loss program/app/plan of your choice. Free and open to everyone. 410-641-4882, www.htcanglican.org/activities.

Wed., May 6

PUZZLE SWAP

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

CALLIGRAPHY WORKSHOP

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

Learn basic calligraphy from White House trained Calligrapher Anne Taylor. Registration required: 410-208-4014. worcesterlibrary.org

KIWANIS CLUB MEETING

Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. Last Wednesday of the month meetings are offsite and information can be found on the website and Facebook. www.kiwanisofopoc.org.

CASH BINGO

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

Thurs., May 7

PRAY FOR AMERICA - NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER

Front of City Hall, 301 Baltimore Ave., Ocean City, 12 p.m. Sponsored by the O.C. Christian Ministers Association.

OC CHESS CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Enjoy a relaxing game of chess monthly at the library. 410-524-1818

STORY TIME: MOTHER’S DAY

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Crafts, songs and stories. For ages 2-5 years. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

STORY TIME ‘BIG FAT HEN’ Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and rhymes. For ages 2-5 years. 410-632-5622, worcesterlibrary.org

POCOMOKE BRANCH BOOK CLUB: ‘THE RED TENT’ BY ANITA DIAMANT

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 2 p.m. Join in for a lively discussion each month. Stop by the Pocomoke Branch to pick up a copy in advance. 410-957-0878, worcesterlibrary.org

PAINT LIKE AN ARTIST

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30 p.m. Learn about watercolors and how artist Georgia O’Keefe used them in her famous flower painting, then create your own. For ages 12-18 years. 410-2084014, worcesterlibrary.org

DRY PANTRY

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

ONGOING EVENTS

OCEAN CITY RESTAURANT WEEK

Explore participating restaurants offering special Restaurant Week menus, April 26-May 9. https://oceancityrestaurantweek.com, 410-289-6733, susanjones@ocvisitor.com

HISTORY-TO-GO

Snow Hill library, 307 N. Washington St., throughout May. Pick up a Historyto-Go kit about Colonial gardening. Includes info sheets, recommended activities, supplies and more. Available at the Snow Hill Branch. 410-632-5622

HISTORY HUNTERS BEANSTACK CHALLENGE

Throughout May, pick up a field guide and your paper mascot from any Worcester County library branch, visit historic sites, read books and snap pictures of your adventures along the way. Return your field guide when you’re finished or log your activities online on beanstack to enter the drawing for a prize. For families. 443-235-5597

OC READS: ‘ISOLA’ BY ALLEGRA GOODMAN

Ocean City library, 10003 Coastal Highway, May 1-31. Pick up a copy of this month’s read. Come in by May 30 to share your impressions and enter into the drawing to win free books. 410-5241818

STAR WARS SCAVENGER HUNT

Ocean Pines library, 11107 Cathell Road, May 4-22. May the force be with you as you hunt down all the rebels and discover the clues to the riddle. For ages 611 years. 410-208-4014

TEEN TIME: DINOSAUR EYES

Ocean Pines library, 11107 Cathell Road, May 4-29, 3:30 p.m. Create your own dinosaur eye using glass eyes and air clay. For ages 12-18 years. 410-208-4014

ORIOLES VS. ATHLETICS BUS TRIP Bus trip to Camden Yards, May 10. Cost is $150 and includes transportation, section 288 seating, Picnic Perch food and bathrooms, Family Fun Day Sunday, watch batting practice and Denim Crab Cap Gate Giveaway to first 20,000 fans. Depart from the Ocean Pines Community Center at 9:30 a.m. Game time is 1:35 p.m. Tickets: 410-641-7052.

Crossword answers from page 54

ASSISTANT MANAGER

Full-Time, Year-Round COOK

YR, Full or Pt Time

Must be available for day, night or weekend shifts. If interested apply in person.

Open daily, 11:00 a.m.

American Legion Post #166, 2308 Philadelphia Avenue

For information call 410-289-3166

THUNDERBIRD BEACH MOTEL

Now Hiring PT/FT

HOUSEKEEPING

Apply in person 9am-4pm 32nd St., Baltimore Ave.

CLEANERS NEEDED

Vacation rental cleaners needed for OC. Experience preferred but not required. OC Purifiers. Call or text 443-397-1189 or email karen@ocpurifiers.com.

Hiring House Cleaner for cleaning business in Bethany. Day shift plus weekends. Experience a plus. Soft background check. Please call or text 443-453-1113

Blue Fish Restaurant & Sushi Bar EXPERIENCED SUSHI CHEF

Full Time/Year Round Salary based on experience. Apply to bluefishoceancity@ gmail.com

- company location Sea Colony Assoc East Email bethann.steele@seacolony.com or call 302-541-8831 for an interview

Worcester County Health Department COMMUNITY HEALTH DIRECTOR OF NURSING II

Full Time, State Benefits. This position is located in Snow Hill, Maryland. The Community Health Director of Nursing (DON), as an executive, provides professional direction and leadership for the Community Health Services Program. Community Health Nurse Program Managers oversee many of these programs, which include Maternal Child Health, Communicable Disease, Emergency Preparedness, Family Planning, and Adult Health. The DON also directly manages the Dental Program through other supervisory staff and provides nursing leadership to Behavioral Health Programs, the Prevention Program, and other programs with nursing staff. Additionally, this position establishes, implements, and evaluates standards, policies, and procedures for nursing services and participates in overall planning and programming for the Worcester County Health Department. Applicants must be able to work at and travel to ALL Worcester County Health Department sites and may be required to work some weekend and/or evening hours. This position is not telework eligible. Background check required.

$111,484.00 - $142,752.00/year with potential growth to $173,775.00/year

We

APPLY ONLINE at www.jobapscloud.com/md by May 7, 2026.

OC Today-Dispatch 59

MARINE TECH wanted for West Ocean City well established boat yard. Must have ability to service outboards, launch and lift out boats. Year-round position and competitive pay. Contact 410-213-1383.

SMALL BUS/VAN

DRIVER for students to and from school to after-school program. Call Aubrey at 410-629-0878 x123. $20/hour, average 12 hours per week.

THUNDERBIRD BEACH MOTEL

Now Hiring

• FT NIGHT AUDITOR RoomMaster exp. pref. Weekends required. Apply in person 9am-4pm 32nd St., Baltimore Ave.

Blue Fish Restaurant & Sushi Bar KITCHEN HEAD CHEF

Full Time/Year Round

Experienced in Wok, Line Cook Station, Fryer Station and Chinese Rotisserie. Salary based on experience. Apply to bluefishoceancity@ gmail.com

JOLLY ROGER

Small Engine Mechanic & Ride Maintenance. (Must have mechanical knowledge) Technical Support & Installation (Entry level with knowledge of network systems)

SEASONAL HELP: Cashiers, Waterpark Attendants, Lifeguards, Ride Operators Wage based on experience. Benefits available. 410-289-4902

Blue Fish Restaurant & Sushi Bar KITCHEN HEAD CHEF

Full Time/Year Round

Experienced in Wok, Line Cook Station, Fryer Station and Chinese Rotisserie. Salary based on experience. Apply to bluefishoceancity@ gmail.com

Extended Spring & Summer Stays Avail. Utililites Included CONTACT US AT burgundyinn@gmail.com 410-289-8581

YEARLY RENTAL Available Immediately 2 UNITS - Robin Dr. (1 furn., 1 unfurn.) 2BR, 1BA. Dog friendly only. Ideal for 2 mature adults. $2,000/mo. + electric. Call/text 703-819-7400

FOR RENT OP 3BR, 2BA, 1,411 sq. ft. $2,150 per mo. + utils. 438 Ocean Parkway Berlin, MD 410-456-0272

Seeking Year-Round Rentals! Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555.

YEARLY RENTALS WEST OCEAN CITY PETS WELCOME

2 Bedroom / 1 Bath Laundry on premises. 877-289-1616 www.bbapartmentsoc.com

REAL ESTATE

FOR SALE OR RENT West

OC Salt Life Community. 2BR, 1BA Model Mobile Home. Fully furnished. New Pool & Community BBQ Area. Close to beaches, restaurants, nightlife and fishing. Will co-op w/realtor. Call 410-807-2515 for more info.

$120,000

BUYS YOU A BEAUTIFUL 2024 MOBILE HOME! Minutes to the beach and next door to county boat ramp. $700/mo. Lot Rent pays for water/sewer/ trash/taxes. Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555

COMMERCIAL

2 Office/Retail Spaces available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft. and 1728 sq. ft. Call 443-497-4200

Industrial Space Yard and Storage Shed. Approx. 10x25+/Route 90/Bishopville. Call 443-497-4200 FOR LEASE

Commercial Retail/Office Space 760 sq. ft. Village of Fenwick, Fenwick Island, DE. Call Melissa, 410-641-1101 or Email Melissa@bergeycpa.com

Commercial Space for Lease ONLY 1 UNIT LEFT! 2-3 Units available, can be divided or joined. Approx. 1000 sq. ft. Busy major road in Town of Berlin. Call 443-880-8885 for more information.

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT

Looking for space, comfort and great views? Spacious, climatecontrolled office available, with use of conference room and reception area, in a modern, wellmaintained building in prime Ocean City location. Call 410-524-3440 for appointment.

and paint, laminate floors, interior paint. Over 40 years of carpentry experience. Please call Larry, 410-251-9066 Larryandkim1954@ gmail.com

Aldridge Pite LLP

6001 Executive Blvd., Suite 200

Rockville, MD 20852

301-961-6555

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE OF REAL PROPERTY AND ANY IMPROVEMENTS

THEREON

1512 SNOWHILL ROAD STOCKTON, MD 21864

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust dated October 26, 2006, recorded in Liber 4825, Folio 1 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, with an original principal balance of $63,000.00, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Sub. Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on

MAY 12, 2026 AT 4:00 PM

ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND, together with any buildings or improvements thereon located in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust.

The property, and any improvements thereon, will be sold in an "as is" condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranty of any kind.

Terms of Sale: A deposit of $6,000 in the form of certified check, cashier's check or money order will be required of the purchaser at time and place of sale. Balance of the purchase price, together with interest on the unpaid purchase money at the current rate contained in the Deed of Trust Note, or any modifications thereto, from the date of sale to the date funds are received by the Sub. Trustees, payable in cash within ten days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court. There will be no abatement of interest due to the purchaser in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE FOR THE PURCHASER. Adjustment of all real property taxes, including agricultural taxes, if applicable, and any and all public and/or private charges or assessments, to the extent such amounts survive foreclosure sale, including water/sewer, ground rent and front foot benefit charges, to be adjusted to date of sale and thereafter assumed by purchaser. Purchaser is responsible for any recapture of homestead tax credit. All transfer taxes and recordation taxes shall be paid by Purchaser. The purchaser shall be responsible for the payment of the ground rent escrow, if required. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale. Purchaser is responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property, and assumes risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale. The sale is subject to post-sale audit of the status of the

loan with the loan servicer including, but not limited to, determination of whether the borrower entered into any repayment agreement, reinstated or paid off the loan prior to the sale. In any such event, this sale shall be null and void, and the Purchaser's sole remedy, in law or equity, shall be the return of the deposit without interest. If purchaser fails to settle within ten days of ratification, subject to order of court, purchaser agrees that property will be resold and entire deposit retained by Sub. Trustees as liquidated damages for all losses occasioned by the purchaser's default and purchaser shall have no further liability. The purchaser waives personal service of any papers filed in connection with its failure to settle within ten days of ratification and expressly agrees to accept service by first class mail at the address provided by the Purchaser as identified on the Memorandum of Sale. The defaulted purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds resulting from said resale even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulted purchaser. Sub. Trustees will convey either marketable or insurable title. If they cannot deliver one or the other, or if ratification of the sale is denied by the Circuit Court for any reason, the Purchaser's sole remedy, at law or equity, is return of the deposit without interest. (Matter No. 377579-1)

Andrew J. Brenner, et al, Substitute Trustees

OCD-4/23/3t

TRUSTEE’S SALE OF CONDOMINIUM UNIT

In accordance with the Order in Case no. C-23-CV-25-000026 in the Circuit Court for Worcester County, the Trustee named below will sell at public auction to the highest bidder on Monday, May 4, 2026, at 3:30 p.m., at the front door of Oceanscape Condominium Unit No. 402, 16 64th Street, Ocean City, MD, all that property designated as Oceanscape Condominium Unit No. 402, together with an undivided percentage interest in the common elements, as established pursuant to a Condominium Master Deed and ByLaws, as amended, dated September 12, 2001, and recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland in Liber No. 3122, Folio 573, et seq., and pursuant also to the several plats described in the said Condominium Master Deed and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records in Plat Book No. 171, Folio 28, et. seq., as further described in a deed recorded at Book 8417, Page 180, et seq., in “AS IS” condition, SUBJECT to all the liens, covenants, agreements, conditions, easements and restrictions as may appear among the land records of Worcester County, Maryland.

A deposit of $25,000.00 in cash or

certified check will be required of the Purchaser at the auction. (A deposit will not be required if the successful bidder is the Plaintiff/secured party in this foreclosure action.) The balance in cash or cashier’s or certified check shall be paid within 20 days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, said balance to bear interest at the rate of ten percent (10%) per annum from the date of sale to the date of payment. Time is of the essence for the Purchaser. All real estate taxes, wastewater and water charges, and condominium assessments shall be adjusted as of the date of sale and assumed thereafter by the Purchaser. All settlement costs, including recordation and transfer taxes and recording fees, shall be paid by the Purchaser. Possession will be given upon payment in full of the purchase price. If Purchaser fails to pay the balance of the purchase price when due, the deposit shall be forfeited and the property resold at the risk and cost of the defaulting Purchaser.

For further information, you may contact Spencer Ayres Cropper, Trustee, 410-723-1400. OCD-4/16/3t

Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland PROPOSAL SOLICITATION

P06-26 – Non-Cash Bus Fare Payment System

The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Non-Cash Bus Fare Payment System and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.

Proposal Documents for the NonCash Bus Fare Payment System 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, APRIL 14TH, 2026 AT 11:00AM EST, AT THE PROCUREMENT CONFERENCE ROOM, 214 65TH STREET, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842. Pre-Proposal Meeting attendance is mandatory for Vendors intend-

ing to submit Proposals for consideration. The Town of Ocean City will additionally provide a virtual attendance option, via Zoom, upon formal request in writing to the Procurement Manager, for Vendors unable to attend the Pre-Proposal Meeting in person. The Last Day for Questions will be on THURSDAY, APRIL 30TH, 2026, AT 4:00PM EST. Addendum will be posted by close of business on FRIDAY, MAY 1ST, 2026

Sealed Proposal Documents are due no later than THURSDAY, MAY 14TH, 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, MAY 15TH, 2026, AT 10:00AM 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 (P06-26 – Non-Cash Bus Fare Payment System) 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-3/26/7t _________________________________

WORCESTER COUNTY MARYLAND OFFICE OF THE TREASURER GOVERNMENT CENTER 1 WEST MARKET STREET, ROOM 1105 SNOW HILL, MD 21863

TAX SALE

OF PROPERTIES LOCATED IN WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

State and County taxes for the 2024 tax levy (and prior years) by the County Commissioners of Worcester County and/or delinquent water, sewer, and assessment charges and/or delinquent nuisance abatements on the properties hereinafter described being due and in arrears and unpaid, and in order to compel the payment of the same, together with interest thereon and costs attending the proceeding, as provided by law, by virtue of the power and authority vested in me as Treasurer, Finance Officer, and Collector of State and County taxes for Worcester County, Maryland, as provided by the Acts of the General Assembly of Maryland, the undersigned Treasurer, Finance Officer and Collector, aforesaid, will sell at public auction to the highest bidder the following properties. This public auction will be held with Real Auction.com. The link is https://worcester.marylandtaxsale.co m

STARTING WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2026 @ 10:00 A.M. CLOSING FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2026 AT THE HOUR OF 1:00 P.M. LIST OF PROPERTIES Acct# 10359449

Ocean City Md LLC. Located At 113 79th St 0006 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 6 S Side 79th St The Ritz CM. Assessment $321,000. Total Due $9,350.65.

Acct# 01000578 Assessed To A J Builders LLC. Located At Worcester Hwy Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 83' X 328' Nw Side R-113 Willow Grove. Assessment $18,500. Total Due $490.68.

Acct# 10140137 Assessed To Adler Tracy Field Adler Robert. Located At 11500 Coastal Hwy 0804 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 804 Beach Hwy Sea Watch CM. Assessment $395,400. Total Due $12,214.64.

Acct# 01017667 Assessed To ALC Properties LLC. Located At 130 Market St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 22 1/2' X 78' S Side Market St & Clarke Ave. Assessment $38,800. Total Due $1,872.19.

Acct# 01020110 Assessed To Allen Bertha R For Life. Located At 709 Fourth St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 39' X 100' E Side 709 Fourth St Pocomoke. Assessment $148,200. Total Due $3,458.94.

Acct# 10295653 Assessed To Althoff Donald & Schwartz Deanna. Located At 307 B 13th St 6 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U66B 311 North Court Royal Palm Th CM. Assessment $144,667. Total Due $4,406.71.

Acct# 03001504 Assessed To Aydelotte Donna M Aydelotte Neil W. Located At 11518 Longridge Ln Whaleyville, Md 21872. Described As 4.99 Acs Near N Side R 346 W Of Whaleyville. Assessment $326,167. Total Due $6,895.67.

Acct# 02021854 Assessed To Aydelotte Roland Jay & Joan E. Located At 509 Church St Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As 24,483 Sq Ft 509 Church St Snow Hill Lot Adj Lds Aydelotte Pl. Assessment $164,100. Total Due $8,500.92.

Acct# 08001219 Assessed To Baine David Lee. Located At 5806 Onley Rd Girdletree, Md 21829. Described As 0.39 Acs S Side Onley Road Pl Survey Carl M Bondy. Assessment $113,500. Total Due $2,467.06.

Acct# 03018911 Assessed To Baker Joseph E Sr. Located At 7424 Libertytown Rd Berlin, Md 21811. Described As 4 47 Acs South Side R 374 Libertytown Road. Assessment $124,867. Total Due $1,844.10.

Acct# 10395380 Assessed To Ball Family Trust The. Located At 10117 Fast Colors Ln Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot 393 10000 Sq Ft Fast Colors Ln Riddle Farm Subdiv Ph 16. Assessment $562,800. Total Due $11,341.05.

Acct# 02006936 Assessed To Ballard Artie H & Elizabeth W. Located At 4239 Market St Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As Lot 18 Blk 1 Sec 1 W/S Market St 35184 Sq Ft Pl Castle Hill Ests. Assessment $111,400. Total Due $2,526.80.

Acct# 10769600 Assessed To Bartee Tammie Marie. Located At 5 Bridge Point CM Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Boat Slip #5 Rusty Anchor Rd Bridge Point CM. Assessment $20,000. Total Due $724.73.

Acct# 10269229 Assessed To Bateman Farms Inc. Located At

10002 Coastal Hwy 0609 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 609 Z Coastal Hwy Marigot Beach CM. Assessment $426,200. Total Due $12,645.02.

Acct# 10036941 Assessed To Bateman Farms Inc. Located At 1201 Atlantic Ave 0207 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 207 12th St & Boardwalk Decatur House CM. Assessment $285,267. Total Due $8,256.64.

Acct# 10225590 Assessed To BB Capital And Consulting LLC. Located At 103 123rd St 0319a Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 319 B A P 1 123rd St Jockey Beach Club CM. Assessment $190,733. Total Due $5,511.93.

Acct# 10200016 Assessed To BB Capital And Consulting LLC. Located At 13324 Nantucket Rd Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Lot 1608 Sec 4B Nantucket Rd Pl Montego Bay Mob Hm Pk. Assessment $187,967. Total Due $5,505.70.

Acct# 10205948 Assessed To BB Capital And Consulting LLC. Located At 423 Yawl Dr Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Lot 321 Sec 6-B Yawl Drive Pl Montego Bay Mobile Home Park. Assessment $301,400. Total Due $8,639.18.

Acct# 10221064 Assessed To Bealefeld Shirley W Leaf Coughlin Valerie C. Located At 11 134th St 0307 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 307 134th St Ocean Princess CM. Assessment $200,200. Total Due $5,970.33.

Acct# 01023063 Assessed To Beckwith Hattie M. Located At 413 Oxford St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 40' X 125' N Side 413 Oxford St Pocomoke. Assessment $29,800. Total Due $1,475.36.

Acct# 01015109 Assessed To Beckwith Richard W Jr. Located At 1011 Clarke Ave Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As Lot 9 Blk K 55' X 133.1' E Side 1011 Clarke Ave. Assessment $43,200. Total Due $2,084.76.

Acct# 10120586 Assessed To Bellosi-Mitchell Grace M & BellosiSiebert Jessica. Located At 10900 Coastal Hwy 0202 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 202 Beach Hwy Golden Sands Club CM. Assessment $447,667. Total Due $13,225.12.

Acct# 02016680 Assessed To Benavides Investments LLC. Located At 102 W Green St Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As 20.2 X 52 102 W Green St Snow Hill. Assessment $226,700. Total Due $8,610.09.

Acct# 10722136 Assessed To Bernetta A Vaughan Revocable Livin Vaughan Bernetta A Trustee. Located At Dawn's Cove Th CM F Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Boat Slip #F Osprey Rd Dawn's Cove Th CM. Assessment $15,000. Total Due $845.90.

Acct# 10328640 Assessed To Bernoski Mary M. Located At 12313 Rumrunner Dr Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot 83 3001 Sq Ft Rumrunner Drive Assateague Pt Resort P 1. Assessment $154,600. Total Due $3,281.08.

Acct# 10183162 Assessed To Berrett Rebecca Ann. Located At 607 Twin Tree Rd Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Lot 4 Blk 13 Sec 1D Twin Tree Road Pl Caine Woods. As-

sessment $369,900. Total Due $7,765.32.

Acct# 03163377 Assessed To Berzonski Derrick J & Shawnee J Berzonski. Located At 201 Flagship Cir Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot 42 Ph 1S 21781 SF Flagship Cir Decatur Farms Pl. Assessment $384,267. Total Due $10,383.47.

Acct# 05000068 Assessed To Bivens Letitia Rodnay. Located At 9425 Morris Rd Bishopville, Md 21813. Described As 17.19 Acs N Side Morris Road S Of Selbyville. Assessment $96,533. Total Due $2,266.56.

Acct# 05000254 Assessed To Blake Quincy & Irene For Life. Located At Hotel Rd Bishopville, Md 21813. Described As 60 X 259 75 N Side Line Hotel Road S Of Selbyville. Assessment $37,267. Total Due $869.20.

Acct# 01020536 Assessed To Blount Allen B Jr. Located At 523 Young St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 47.6' X 108.6' 523 Young Street Pocomoke. Assessment $18,000. Total Due $2,567.84.

Acct# 01001280 Assessed To Blount Allen B Jr & Mirian B Golden. Located At Cypress Rd Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 105' X 105' W Side UnionvilleCedar Hall Road. Assessment $8,900. Total Due $519.42.

Acct# 01020013 Assessed To Borden Estelle. Located At 707 Fourth St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 34' X 100' E Side 707 Fourth St Pocomoke. Assessment $3,000. Total Due $505.46.

Acct# 10402557 Assessed To Bowers Jason S. Located At 11 Seascape CM 11 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Boat Slip #11 Heron Drive Seascape CM. Assessment $17,667. Total Due $628.64.

Acct# 10352940 Assessed To Bowman Brady S. Located At 12542 Old Bridge Rd Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Par A .716 Acs S Side Old Ocean City Rd Edward B Gray Sub. Assessment $208,500. Total Due $3,251.61.

Acct# 10232252 Assessed To Braun Robert J & Braun Silja B. Located At 2802 B Plover Dr Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Lot 332B Plover Drive Plat Outrigger II Bay Sho Est. Assessment $305,100. Total Due $9,149.06.

Acct# 02009277 Assessed To Brewington Lawrence K & Kelly C. Located At 6758 Mccabes Corner Rd Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As 0.56 Ac S/W Side Mccabes Corner Rd Loc Sur L Reithmuller. Assessment $204,600. Total Due $4,440.98.

Acct# 02011891 Assessed To Brittingham Lynette. Located At 4119 Market St Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As 1.45 Acs Sw/Sd Market St Rev/ Lds Waters Et Al. Assessment $44,400. Total Due $1,159.32.

Acct# 10768889 Assessed To Burke Edward A Trustee & Burke Kathryn D Trustee Etal. Located At Baltimore Ave Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Parcel A 1704 SF Baltimore Ave Resub Of Lts 6 & 7 Into. Assessment $103,067. Total Due $3,150.41.

Acct# 04000439 Assessed To Burkett Edwina L. Located At 7454 Queponco Rd Newark, Md 21841.

Described As 1.094 Acs Sw Side Queponco Rd W Of Newark. Assessment $77,200. Total Due $1,799.03.

Acct# 10002265 Assessed To Burton Jeffrey Burton Julilyn. Located At 10409 Exeter Rd Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Lot 26A Blk 8 Sec A Exeter Road Resub Pl Cape Isle Of Wight. Assessment $519,200. Total Due $9,960.52.

Acct# 01021427 Assessed To Butler Kenneth D & Marvin Dinky Parker Jr. Located At 513 Laurel St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 74' X 60' N Side 513 & 515 Laurel St. Assessment $66,000. Total Due $2,963.21.

Acct# 10083400 Assessed To C1 Holdings LLC. Located At 12 72nd St 0101 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 101 72nd St Atlantic Court CM. Assessment $215,367. Total Due $6,324.16.

Acct# 10337070 Assessed To C1 Holdings LLC. Located At 12626 Sunset Ave 0068J Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 68 B J S 2-O Sunset Ave Sunset Village CM. Assessment $204,000. Total Due $1,221.44.

Acct# 10722829 Assessed To Campbell Jill C Stewart Robert Scot. Located At Harbor Place CM C Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Boat Slip #C Windward Dr Harbor Place CM. Assessment $15,000. Total Due $566.80.

Acct# 01003143 Assessed To Carter Melinda. Located At 1523 Unionville Rd Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 100' X 200' N Side Unionville Rd SW Of Pocomoke. Assessment $101,100. Total Due $2,295.84.

Acct# 10165822 Assessed To Carter Richard D Frances M Tenants In Common. Located At 13400 Coastal Hwy S208 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U As-208 Btw 134th & 135th Sts Bluewater East A CM. Assessment $203,333. Total Due $5,975.42.

Acct# 01019511 Assessed To Charles Edmane. Located At 103 Linden Ave Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As Item 1 40' X 155' Item 2 26' X 155' N Side 103 Linden Ave. Assessment $337,800. Total Due $15,100.26.

Acct# 01029495 Assessed To Clabaugh Daniel G. Located At 1301 Market St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As Revsd Par 207 1.12 A N Side Market St Subdv & Bndy Ln Adj Dani. Assessment $69,300. Total Due $3,326.74.

Acct# 03034321 Assessed To Collick Beatrice Pitts Reginald T. Located At 114 Railroad Ave Berlin, Md 21811. Described As 69 3 X 591 36 N Side Railroad Avenue Berlin. Assessment $54,933. Total Due $2,303.10.

Acct# 03029123 Assessed To Corbin Leslie H. Located At 104 South Main St Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot W Side 104 S Main X Washington Sts. Assessment $298,367. Total Due $8,640.29.

Acct# 10336651 Assessed To Cuart James A. Located At 201 S Heron Dr 0009F Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 9 B F P 3 Edward Taylor Rd Harbour Club CM. Assessment $318,700. Total Due $9,377.09.

Acct# 10215986 Assessed To

Cubler Angela Reese Susan Etal. Located At 20 St Louis Ave 0004 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 4 St Louis Ave Bay Haven CM. Assessment $133,300. Total Due $3,253.35.

Acct# 07007876 Assessed To Culver Eric C Culver Rebecca L. Located At 8080 Stevens Rd Salisbury, Md 21804. Described As Lot 1 2.109 Acs E Side Stevens Road Donald Culver Min Sub. Assessment $254,500. Total Due $5,520.00. Acct# 07000227 Assessed To Culver Eric C Culver Rebecca Lynn. Located At 8124 Stevens Rd Salisbury, Md 21804. Described As 37.891 Acs E Side Stevens Road W Of Snow Hill. Assessment $282,700. Total Due $6,324.58.

Acct# 03083101 Assessed To Curry Greg Curry Judith. Located At 3 Ivy Ln Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot B-03-035 11146 Sq Ft Ivy Lane Pl Ocean Pines Sec 3. Assessment $286,733. Total Due $5,758.90.

Acct# 03097323 Assessed To Dahl John & Dahl Susan. Located At 1 Maid Marion Ln Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot B-10-543 11425 Sq Ft Castle Dr Pl Ocean Pines Sec 10. Assessment $257,967. Total Due $2,746.55.

Acct# 02018705 Assessed To Demarr Derek. Located At 115 Collins St Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As 57.5 X 116.5 X 57.5 X 118.1 115 N Collins St Snow Hill. Assessment $155,900. Total Due $6,291.55.

Acct# 01007173 Assessed To Denney Jeffery A. Located At 4417 Stockton Rd Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 125' X 317' N Side Stockton Rd E Of Pocomoke. Assessment $54,400. Total Due $1,350.55.

Acct# 01040049 Assessed To Dewey Bay Limited Liability Compan. Located At 2145 Old Snow Hill Rd Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As Lot 2A Ph 4 2.11 Acs N Side Old Snow Hill Rd Lt Ln Aband Newtowne Squ. Assessment $521,300. Total Due $24,189.85.

Acct# 01030582 Assessed To Dewey Bay Limited Liability Company. Located At 9 Sixth St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 80' X 195' X 102' X 103' X 213.96' E Side 9 Sixth St. Assessment $37,800. Total Due $1,856.86.

Acct# 01029533 Assessed To Dewey Bay LLC. Located At Dorchester St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 115' X 49 1/2' SW Side Dorchester Ave Pocomoke. Assessment $29,000. Total Due $1,464.26.

Acct# 01030698 Assessed To Dewey Bay LLC. Located At Sixth St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As Lot 1 - 37897 Sq Ft 6th St Car Wash Age Associates Plat. Assessment $221,900. Total Due $10,425.20.

Acct# 01029525 Assessed To Dewey Bay LLC. Located At 1105 Market St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 135' X 311' N Side Market St Pocomoke. Assessment $192,400. Total Due $8,922.46.

Acct# 10338530 Assessed To Dickey Kate A. Located At 8527 North Longboat Way Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot 236 North Longboat Way Assateague Pt Resort P 2. Assessment $173,500. Total Due $3,653.46.

Acct# 03769108 Assessed To Diehl Gregory John. Located At

10155 Harrison Rd Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot 2 19.26 Acs W Side Harrison Rd Min Sub David & Bonnie D. Assessment $451,733. Total Due $9,197.38.

Acct# 04005546 Assessed To Donaway George William Sr & Donaway Brenda A. Located At 6262 Basket Switch Rd Newark, Md 21841. Described As Lot 1 1.15 Acs E Side Basket Switch Rd Plat Oak Hill Estates. Assessment $181,800. Total Due $3,864.42.

Acct# 01001019 Assessed To Donaway Rita Elizabeth. Located At 2514 Worcester Hwy Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 190' X 190' X 190' X 143' Near E Side R-113 NE Of Pocomoke. Assessment $68,100. Total Due $1,659.20.

Acct# 03054896 Assessed To Doria Allison. Located At 2 White Sail Cir Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot B-01-694 7500 Sq Ft White Sail Cr Plat Ocean Pines Sec 1. Assessment $264,633. Total Due $4,801.75.

Acct# 10006430 Assessed To Dougherty Edwin J. Located At 12654 Balte Rd Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Lot 24 Blk 6 Sec A E Side Balte Road Pl Cape Isle Of Wight. Assessment $422,100. Total Due $6,757.13.

Acct# 03050408 Assessed To Dowd Martin M & Jone M. Located At 29 Harborview Dr Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot C-01393 5000 Sq Ft Harborview Dr Plat Ocean Pines Sec 1-B. Assessment $499,067. Total Due $22,830.84.

Acct# 10010292 Assessed To Drummond Sylvia V & Ruth J Williams & Others. Located At Sinepuxent Rd Berlin, Md 21811. Described As 2 Acs S Side Sinepuxent Rd W Of Ocean City. Assessment $13,900. Total Due $391.80.

Acct# 10010306 Assessed To Drummond Sylvia V & Ruth J Williams & Others. Located At Sinepuxent Rd Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot S Side Sinepuxent Road West Of Ocean City. Assessment $11,400. Total Due $338.05.

Acct# 08009961 Assessed To Dukes Harvey Dukes John Clayton Etal. Located At Dukes Rd Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As 10 Acs Near Kellys Mill Near R-112 S Of Snow Hill. Assessment $10,000. Total Due $307.96.

Acct# 07000278 Assessed To Dykes Judith A. Located At 445 McGrath Rd Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As 55 Acs Marcellus Brown Tract McGrath Road. Assessment $156,600. Total Due $3,815.04.

Acct# 10265258 Assessed To East Of The Sun Association Of Owners Inc. Located At State Line Ave Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As .83 Ac Escaped Prop Coastal Highway To Dukes Avenue Ocean City. Assessment $9,100. Total Due $549.79.

Acct# 10030188 Assessed To Elliott Evan G Newell Elizabeth K. Located At 203 2nd St Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Part Lots 28, 29 Pt Lot 12 Blk 28 Div 203 Second St. Assessment $313,700. Total Due $9,045.57.

Acct# 03018601 Assessed To Elliott John Walter Jr. Located At 9236 Mary Rd Berlin, Md 21811. Described As 52.6236 Acs North Side

Mary Road East Of Berlin. Assessment $468,967. Total Due $9,827.04.

Acct# 10032261 Assessed To Elliott Pauline J For Life. Located At 300 4th St Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Lot A Blk 43 N Side 300 Fourth St Pl Bay Heights. Assessment $335,100. Total Due $7,806.44.

Acct# 10019907 Assessed To Elliott Ralph H & Pauline J Elliott. Located At 12249 Snug Harbor Rd Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot 49 Sec A N Side Hastings Drive Pl Snug Harbor. Assessment $377,200. Total Due $10,132.80.

Acct# 10341531 Assessed To Emperador Francisco Javier Cermeno Candy R. Located At 6 127th St 0406 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 406 127th St Marylander Hotel CM. Assessment $160,367. Total Due $4,858.96.

Acct# 10004438 Assessed To Engh Darin M & Elizabeth DewildeEngh. Located At 10335 Walthan Rd Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Lot 5 Blk 25 Sec C W Side Walthan Rd Pl Cape Isle Of Wight. Assessment $309,400. Total Due $1,296.57.

Acct# 10115299 Assessed To English Towers LLC. Located At 10000 Coastal Hwy 1207 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 1207 Beach Hwy English Towers CM. Assessment $442,733. Total Due $13,083.85.

Acct# 10122937 Assessed To EVP MD LLC. Located At 10300 Coastal Hwy 409 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 409 Coastal Hwy Atlantis CM. Assessment $328,400. Total Due $9,696.08.

Acct# 02003457 Assessed To Ewell Lillie Mae & Betty Ann Ewell & Phyllis Ann Ewell. Located At 5428 Sweet Spire Ln Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As 6.6202 Acs N/E Side Forest Lane Road N W Of Snow Hill. Assessment $99,900. Total Due $2,209.13.

Acct# 03004848 Assessed To Fiedler George D. Located At 11104 Worcester Hwy Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot 1 2.13 Acs E Side Worcester Hwy Bluewater Botanical. Assessment $250,700. Total Due $5,394.80.

Acct# 01023071 Assessed To Fleming Tammie Sue. Located At 503 Market St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 43' X 205.5' N Side 503 Market St Pocomoke. Assessment $161,300. Total Due $6,367.08.

Acct# 10138523 Assessed To Frey Connie J For Life. Located At 11500 Coastal Hwy 1209 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 1209 Beach Hwy Sea Watch CM. Assessment $395,400. Total Due $8,348.47.

Acct# 01006592 Assessed To FS Enterprises LLC. Located At Bypass Rd Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As Lot E Side Md 359 NE Of Pocomoke. Assessment $28,900. Total Due $714.23.

Acct# 01000411 Assessed To FS Enterprises LLC. Located At Worcester Hwy Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 105' X 105' N Side R-113 Willow Grove. Assessment $14,400. Total Due $402.55.

Acct# 01023381 Assessed To FS Enterprises LLC. Located At 415 Oxford St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 55' X 147' N Side 415 Oxford St Pocomoke. Assessment

$18,200. Total Due $953.58.

Acct# 01016660 Assessed To FS Enterprises LLC. Located At 618 Clarke Ave Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 58' X 80' 618 Clarke Ave X Laurel St Pocomoke. Assessment $20,800. Total Due $1,074.02.

Acct# 10327431 Assessed To Garfield Craig L Jr. Located At 14305 Light House Ave 000B Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U B Lighthouse Ave Lighthouse Cove CM. Assessment $214,200. Total Due $4,837.83.

Acct# 05007291 Assessed To Garzanit Nancy For Life. Located At 11623 Back Creek Rd Bishopville, Md 21813. Described As 200' X 223.82' NE Side Back Creek Rd E Of Bishopville. Assessment $250,633. Total Due $5,549.17.

Acct# 03049159 Assessed To Gayle Hazel M & Gayle Laverne. Located At 5 Salty Way Rd Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot B-02-203 8483 Sq Ft Salty Way Pl Ocean Pines Sec 2. Assessment $289,300. Total Due $6,021.14.

Acct# 10425859 Assessed To GCR Development LLC. Located At 9723 Golf Course Rd Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Lot 2 Blk G 3.45 Acs Golf Course Rd. Assessment $755,167. Total Due $31,815.38.

Acct# 10742293 Assessed To Ghosh Kumkum Ghosh Pradip. Located At 6 Hidden Cove Way Lug-B Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U-Lug-BF-3A Hidden Cove Way The Garden CM II Ph 1. Assessment $479,233. Total Due $14,312.36.

Acct# 01021028 Assessed To Gibbs Fiona. Located At 723 Sixth St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 38' X 100' E Side 723 Sixth St & Fifth Avenue. Assessment $65,700. Total Due $2,370.19.

Acct# 03098699 Assessed To Gleeson Gerard J Jr & Carol Susan. Located At 39 Robin Hood Trl Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot B-10-1161 7667 Sq Ft Robin Hood Trail Pl Ocean Pines Sec 10. Assessment $75,333. Total Due $1,729.23.

Acct# 03034518 Assessed To Gortman Sheila F. Located At 102 Flower St Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot 6.073 Sq Ft Easterly Side Flower St Berlin. Assessment $85,100. Total Due $3,457.20.

Acct# 02008300 Assessed To Grace Full Gospel Fellowship Inc. Located At 5349 Snow Hill Rd Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As 80' X 408' S W Side R-12 W Of Snow Hill. Assessment $191,100. Total Due $309.00.

Acct# 03046095 Assessed To Green Janis & Jenkins Janeen. Located At 6 Southwind Ct Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot B-09-209 10705 Sq Ft Southwind Ct Pl Ocean Pines Sec Nine. Assessment $317,600. Total Due $6,605.34.

Acct# 10258669 Assessed To Green Michael O. Located At 504 Yawl Dr Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Lot 339 3600 Sq Ft E S Yawl Dr Pl Montego Bay Sec 6 C. Assessment $232,000. Total Due $6,688.89.

Acct# 05004446 Assessed To Greenridge Enterprises LLC. Located At 12531 Worcester Hwy Bishopville, Md 21813. Described As 17.79 Acs W Side R-113 E Of Bishop. Assessment $1,217,300. Total Due

$25,313.37.

Acct# 03021246 Assessed To Hall Randolph Freddie Jr For Life. Located At 10209 Germantown Rd Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot X E Side Germantown Road SE Of Berlin. Assessment $93,933. Total Due $2,216.41.

Acct# 10226821 Assessed To Harmon Barbara J. Located At 14 136th St 0301 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 301 136th St Sunspot CM. Assessment $326,133. Total Due $9,452.89.

Acct# 03042294 Assessed To Haskell Elnathan Haskell Angela T. Located At 25 Sandyhook Rd Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot B-06-202 11319 Sq Ft Sandyhook Rd Plat Ocean Pines Sec 6. Assessment $411,300. Total Due $8,492.02.

Acct# 10366216 Assessed To Hauser Sheila D. Located At 12506 Deer Point Cir Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot 10 14251 Sq Ft Deer Point Circle Deer Point Subdiv. Assessment $412,700. Total Due $7,262.77.

Acct# 03126013 Assessed To Haynie Mark W & Evelyn M. Located At Timberline Cir Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot 397 Timberline Circle White Horse Park Phase 3. Assessment $118,100. Total Due $2,450.20.

Acct# 10113679 Assessed To Hicks John D. Located At 9500 Coastal Hwy 006F Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 6F Beach Hwy Pyramid CM. Assessment $312,433. Total Due $8,956.33.

Acct# 08004285 Assessed To Hilliard Glenn M. Located At 1542 Grant Rd Stockton, Md 21864. Described As Lot On Private Road Nr Pocomoke Road. Assessment $161,300. Total Due $3,164.42.

Acct# 02022079 Assessed To Hillman Emily Dawn. Located At 232 Washington St Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As 117' X 191' X 162' X 81' S Washington St Snow Hill. Assessment $116,500. Total Due $4,760.59.

Acct# 10343844 Assessed To Hinkle Gary & Marcia D & Alan E Bell. Located At 8343 South Longboat Way Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot 366 3000 Sq Ft South Longboat Drive Assateague Pt Resort P 3. Assessment $180,500. Total Due $3,748.99.

Acct# 01021400 Assessed To Holden Gregory T & Vera L. Located At 509 Cedar St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 60' X 120.4' 509 Cedar St Pocomoke. Assessment $87,300. Total Due $2,539.61.

Acct# 10236355 Assessed To Hudson Christopher R & Hudson Kimberly. Located At 9 41st St 0232 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 232 41st St Ocean Point No 3 CM. Assessment $177,767. Total Due $5,228.87.

Acct# 03112020 Assessed To Hund Judith A Hund Ann. Located At 807 Ocean Pkwy Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot B-11-255 7650 Sq Ft Ocean Parkway Pl Ocean Pines Sec 11. Assessment $288,667. Total Due $4,401.28.

Acct# 10355508 Assessed To J And R Properties LLC. Located At 9601 Ocean View Ln Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Lot 1 Ph 1 15622 Sq Ft Ocean View Lane Sea-

pointe Subdiv. Assessment $1,747,100. Total Due $36,196.02.

Acct# 02018136 Assessed To Jackson Pearl. Located At 103 Gunby St Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As 73' X 112' 103 West Gunby St Snow Hill. Assessment $72,400. Total Due $1,822.58.

Acct# 02009897 Assessed To Jackson Willie Joe Jr & Mary A & Jackson Vandella A. Located At Public Landing Rd Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As 14.35 Acs Mt Wesley E Side Public Landing Rd E Of Snow Hill. Assessment $58,200. Total Due $1,330.65.

Acct# 10230136 Assessed To James Paula & Nina Fernandez & Yurcisin Lindy & Kimberly Garrison. Located At 4000 Coastal Hwy 0211 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 211 Btw 40th & 41st Sts Ocean Point No 2 CM. Assessment $177,133. Total Due $5,198.21.

Acct# 05769378 Assessed To Jenkins Tyler M. Located At 12516 Daye Girls Rd Bishopville, Md 21813. Described As Lot 4 6.68 Acs E Side Daye Girls Rd Min Sub Keith A Coffin E. Assessment $257,033. Total Due $4,360.58.

Acct# 02009013 Assessed To Jones Clarence. Located At Public Landing Rd Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As 10 Acs Cor Public Landing & McCabe Corner Roads. Assessment $62,000. Total Due $3,784.16.

Acct# 10741165 Assessed To Joseph G Dooley Trust Dooley H Kathleen Trustee. Located At 44 Canal Walk Ln 44CP Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Unit 44CP Ph 1 Canal Walk Ln Port Astor Sunset Is 111. Assessment $692,067. Total Due $20,595.63.

Acct# 03107361 Assessed To Justice Tina Louise. Located At 26 Nottingham Ln Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot B-10-028 7500 Sq Ft Nottingham Ln Pl Ocean Pines Sec 10. Assessment $240,000. Total Due $3,999.39.

Acct# 10338387 Assessed To Kavoossi Saiid & Annette M & Thompson Cristina N & Jeffrey M. Located At 12116 W Cannonball Dr Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot 222 North Longboat Way Assateague Pt Resort P 2. Assessment $176,000. Total Due $5,144.04.

Acct# 01021125 Assessed To Keefer Ronald Jr. Located At 501 Laurel St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 39' X 62' N Side 501 Laurel St Pocomoke. Assessment $12,000. Total Due $1,742.88.

Acct# 01021664 Assessed To Keiffer James W. Located At Cedar St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 47' X 134' N Side Cedar St Pocomoke. Assessment $10,100. Total Due $570.58.

Acct# 01021656 Assessed To Keiffer James W. Located At 610 Walnut St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 50' X 155' E Side 610 Walnut St Pocomoke. Assessment $123,100. Total Due $4,505.18.

Acct# 03119866 Assessed To Kelly Patricia Jo. Located At 289 Woodhaven Ct Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot 289 Ph 1 Sec 3 Woodhaven Court Pl White Horse Park. Assessment $66,667. Total Due $1,483.94.

Acct# 03136043 Assessed To

Kelly Patricia Jo. Located At 943 Yacht Club Dr Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot 37 3295 Sq Ft Yacht Club Drive Sec 1 Marina Village Ths Sc 18. Assessment $374,700. Total Due $7,633.25.

Acct# 01012444 Assessed To Knox Levi Rubben For Life. Located At Colona Rd Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 105' X 195' N Side Colona Road S Of Pocomoke. Assessment $19,300. Total Due $1,281.01.

Acct# 10210976 Assessed To Leblanc Aida L & Hitch John A & Dayna L Hitch. Located At 143 Jamestown Rd 0003 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 3 Jamestown Rd Jamestown Inlet CM. Assessment $277,133. Total Due $8,321.65.

Acct# 10128595 Assessed To Leventer Debra S. Located At 11000 Coastal Hwy 1701 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 1701 Beach Hwy Capri CM. Assessment

$383,300. Total Due $11,388.01.

Acct# 01012517 Assessed To Long Benjamin Heirs. Located At Colona Rd Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 10 Acs S Side Colona Road S Of Pocomoke. Assessment $24,700. Total Due $623.93.

Acct# 10383676 Assessed To Lynch Craig R. Located At 9925 Stephen Decatur Hwy E4 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 4 BE P2 N/S Rt 611 Teal Marsh CM. Assessment $254,467. Total Due $5,202.22.

Acct# 03091961 Assessed To Mareno Damien. Located At 44 Ocean Pkwy Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot B-03-298 9000 Sq Ft Ocean Pkway Pl Ocean Pines Sec 3. Assessment $346,333. Total Due $3,955.83.

Acct# 03013936 Assessed To Maricle Daniel L. Located At 7922 Libertytown Rd Berlin, Md 21811. Described As 6.3764 Acs Southeasterly Side Libertytown Rd R-374. Assessment $176,000. Total Due $3,952.17.

Acct# 05014603 Assessed To Marie E Altese Trust Altese Marie E Trustee. Located At 10216 Hammond Rd Bishopville, Md 21813. Described As Lot 1B 2.65 Acs South Side Hammond Road Resub Lot 1 A Altese Ld. Assessment $126,900. Total Due $2,824.99.

Acct# 10307767 Assessed To Martini Paul R. Located At 12 63rd St 0402 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 402 63rd St Sun Rise Sea CM. Assessment $351,233. Total Due $10,060.95.

Acct# 08000794 Assessed To Mattaponi Bottoms Farm LLC. Located At 3002 Betheden Church Rd Girdletree, Md 21829. Described As 52.45 Acs E/S Betheden Church Rd Bdy Sur Porter Mill Prop. Assessment $19,600. Total Due $514.31.

Acct# 08000697 Assessed To Mattaponi Bottoms Farm LLC. Located At 4437 Onley Rd Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 129.76 Ac SVH 195/73 E/S Betheden Church Rd Pl Rural Int Ld LLC. Assessment $24,300. Total Due $615.36.

Acct# 10172586 Assessed To Mcgrath Living Trust Mcgrath Michael P & Sara M Trustee. Located At 14001 Coastal Hwy 204 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 53 140th St Orleans Court CM. Assessment $144,333. Total Due $4,320.05.

Acct# 10179130 Assessed To Mckenzie Robin Jo Robinson. Located At 13603 Sea Captain Rd Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Lot 1 Blk 11 Twin Tree Road Pl Caine Woods Sec 3. Assessment $356,567. Total Due $10,296.19.

Acct# 10032296 Assessed To Md Group Corp. Located At 308 4th St Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Lot D Blk 43 Bloxom Apts Pl J E Evans Dev. Assessment $470,367. Total Due $13,597.73.

Acct# 05005574 Assessed To Meehan Thomas Joseph & Elizabeth Ann Bertrand. Located At 9937 Bishopville Rd Bishopville, Md 21813. Described As 148 X 467.85 X 432.90 N S County Rd Near Bishopville. Assessment $95,367. Total Due $1,700.19.

Acct# 02025736 Assessed To Merritt Michele Jones Robert F. Located At 422 S Church St Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As 150' X 400 420 X 422 S Church St Snow Hill. Assessment $168,600. Total Due $6,302.69.

Acct# 10387620 Assessed To Metzbower Curt E & Metzbower Gail L. Located At 3 Baywatch II CM Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Boat Slip #3 S Heron Dr Baywatch II CM. Assessment $5,000. Total Due $343.97.

Acct# 02023555 Assessed To Milbourne Oliver. Located At 106 Collins St Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As 50' X 180' 106 N Collins Street Snow Hill. Assessment $85,700. Total Due $1,656.73.

Acct# 01022954 Assessed To Mills Steven Jr. Located At 4 Gray St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 46 X 87 West Side 4 Gray St Pocomoke. Assessment $20,500. Total Due $2,243.84.

Acct# 03768927 Assessed To Mitchell Eric Brian Sr Mitchell Erica Womack. Located At 10407 Trappe Rd Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Imps Itm 1 1 Ac N Side Trappe Rd SE Of Berlin. Assessment $84,967. Total Due $2,006.49.

Acct# 03007413 Assessed To Mojoind LLC. Located At 8525 Logtown Rd Berlin, Md 21811. Described As 16.57 Acs N/S Logtown Rd Forest Co Easement Pl D & L Lilley. Assessment $71,500. Total Due $1,743.96. Acct# 03007421 Assessed To Mojoind LLC. Located At 8525 Logtown Rd Berlin, Md 21811. Described As 5.23 Acs N/S Logtown Rd Forest Conv E D & L Lilley Pl. Assessment $389,467. Total Due $8,347.38.

Acct# 01015958 Assessed To Molock Group Inc The. Located At 708 Second St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 76' X 136' W Side 708 Second St Pocomoke. Assessment $20,300. Total Due $3,012.60.

Acct# 01009192 Assessed To MS Shore Properties LLC. Located At 1705 Cypress Rd Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As Lot 5A W Side Unionville Rd Pl Of Israel Gale. Assessment $115,800. Total Due $2,596.49.

Acct# 01017241 Assessed To Mt Vernon Group LLC. Located At 205 Laurel St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 65' X 105' N Side 205 Laurel St Pocomoke. Assessment $188,700. Total Due $4,853.62.

Acct# 10315476 Assessed To Murray Shawn M. Located At 802

Bahia Rd Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Lot 123 3600 Sq Ft Bahia Road Montego Bay Mobile Hm Pk Sec 8B. Assessment $334,467. Total Due $6,334.47.

Acct# 01024612 Assessed To Navarro Tracy. Located At 902 Walnut St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As Lot 25 52.5 X 145 S Side 902 Walnut St Pl Dixie Realty Co. Assessment $147,000. Total Due $5,435.68.

Acct# 02014106 Assessed To Palmer Jeffrey Mark & Vicki Palmer. Located At 6245 Taylor Landing Rd Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As 5.09 Acs E Side Taylors Lding Rd Leroy Burkett Addt Lds. Assessment $189,900. Total Due $4,024.92.

Acct# 03069397 Assessed To Parry Robin L. Located At 31 Concord Ln Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot B-11-212 9559 Sq Ft Concord Lane Pl Ocean Pines Sec 11. Assessment $261,333. Total Due $5,440.26.

Acct# 03003159 Assessed To Pep Maxwell LLC. Located At 11280 Hall Rd Berlin, Md 21811. Described As 12.04 Acs E/S Hall Rd Alta/Acsm Ld Sur Lease Area Clearview. Assessment $301,500. Total Due $6,625.53.

Acct# 03121224 Assessed To Perreault Peter. Located At 220 West St Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot 9-21922 Sq Ft West St Subdiv Of Carroll W Hynes. Assessment $321,333. Total Due $10,447.11.

Acct# 10341442 Assessed To Phengsavath Phanomkone Phengsavath Souchitta. Located At 6 127th St 0306 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 306 127th St Marylander Hotel CM. Assessment $160,367. Total Due $4,858.96.

Acct# 03081575 Assessed To Pillsbury Duwayne Edward. Located At 1 Briarcrest Dr Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot B-07-123 12616 Sq Ft Bramblewood Dr Pl Ocean Pines Sec 7. Assessment $251,200. Total Due $5,150.67.

Acct# 01028057 Assessed To Powell Alice Mae. Located At 709 Eighth St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 40' X 100' S Side Eighth St Pocomoke. Assessment $64,700. Total Due $2,988.63.

Acct# 10084717 Assessed To Powell Diana Barbara & Powell Carl M E & Helen E Powell. Located At 7301 Atlantic Ave 001D Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 1-D Btw 73rd & 74th Sts Beachmark CM. Assessment $260,033. Total Due $7,976.33.

Acct# 10442753 Assessed To Prender Christopher Allen

Schoelkopf Michael. Located At 12129 Snug Harbor Rd Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot 95 6749 Sq Ft E/S Rt 611 Snug Harbor Bayside At The Landings. Assessment $465,500. Total Due $6,442.61.

Acct# 05013836 Assessed To Prokapus John D & Prokapus Karen M. Located At 12106 Salt Point Rd Bishopville, Md 21813. Described As Lot 4 Blk 8 20166 Sq Ft Salt Point Pl Bay View Estates. Assessment $363,367. Total Due $7,723.82.

Acct# 02017822 Assessed To Raebeck Heidi. Located At 304 Federal St Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As Lot 140' X 137' 304 306 308 Fed St. Assessment $205,000.

Total Due $11,399.99.

Acct# 05005116 Assessed To Revocable Trust Agreement Of Barba Hudson Barbara Ann Trustee. Located At Bishopville Rd Bishopville, Md 21813. Described As 35 Acs S Side Bishopville Rd W Of Bishopville. Assessment $12,400. Total Due $516.19.

Acct# 05005019 Assessed To Revocable Trust Agreement Of Barba Hudson Barbara Ann Trustee. Located At St Martins Neck Rd Bishopville, Md 21813. Described As 20 1/2 Acs N Side St Martins Neck Rd Bishopville. Assessment $7,100. Total Due $335.32.

Acct# 03099679 Assessed To Rice Timothy A. Located At 81 Robin Hood Trl Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot B-10-1231 7920 Sq Ft Robin Hood Trail Pl Ocean Pines Sec 10. Assessment $278,900. Total Due $5,502.31.

Acct# 10019095 Assessed To Rindal Eric A. Located At 8305 Stephen Decatur Hwy Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As App 100 X 200 W Side Stephen Decatur Road. Assessment $160,400. Total Due $3,469.84.

Acct# 10261651 Assessed To Rose Aubrey E Rose Darlene B. Located At 206 8th St 0026 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 26 8th St Surfside 8 CM. Assessment $139,833. Total Due $3,915.90.

Acct# 10248701 Assessed To Rose Aubrey E Rose Darlene B. Located At 711 Edgewater Ave 711 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 711 Edgewater Ave Pier Seven CM. Assessment $191,633. Total Due $5,773.80.

Acct# 01018485 Assessed To Rose Paul F II. Located At 104 Front St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As Parcel 4 W Side 104 Front Street Pocomoke. Assessment $121,400. Total Due $5,483.37.

Acct# 01009338 Assessed To Rose Paul F II. Located At 869 Cedar Hall Rd Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As Lot 41817 Sq Ft W Side Cedar Hall Road S Of Pocomoke. Assessment $63,500. Total Due $1,532.76.

Acct# 10441188 Assessed To Russo Anthony Frederick & Russo Antonio B. Located At 8142 Timberneck Dr Berlin, Md 21811. Described As L-31 & SRA 31 5.25ac Timberneck Dr Winding Creek Estates. Assessment $237,200. Total Due $5,191.74.

Acct# 10746507 Assessed To Sami Mike Mehrzad Sami Sharareh. Located At 25 Bahia Vista CM 25 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Boat Slip #25 Edgewater Ave Bahia Vista CM. Assessment $30,000. Total Due $1,040.61.

Acct# 05014433 Assessed To Sanchez Bianey Cordoba. Located At 9836 Hotel Rd Bishopville, Md 21813. Described As 2.67 Acs S Side Line Hotel Rd S Of Selbyville. Assessment $159,867. Total Due $3,529.95.

Acct# 10263441 Assessed To Sauler Katherine A & Sauler Clifford W. Located At 9 37th St 0108 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 108 37th St Sovereign Sea CM. Assessment $372,067. Total Due $10,838.84. Acct# 03025241 Assessed To

Schrider Raymond Scot & Schrider Angela Margaret Clark. Located At 9125 Old Ocean City Rd Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot 1 5.08 Acs Old Ocean City Rd Div Of Lds R Hudson. Assessment $208,433. Total Due $4,598.73.

Acct# 10341426 Assessed To Seeking Alpha LLC. Located At 6 127th St 0304 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 304 127th St Marylander Hotel CM. Assessment $160,367. Total Due $4,858.96.

Acct# 10239397 Assessed To Shaughnessy Marilyn C For Life. Located At 10 143rd St 204 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 204 143rd St Le Lisa CM. Assessment $317,233. Total Due $9,539.58.

Acct# 03011445 Assessed To Shea William. Located At 11311 Gum Point Rd Berlin, Md 21811. Described As 100 X 300 N Side Gum Point Road East Of Berlin. Assessment $323,833. Total Due $7,029.72.

Acct# 10251818 Assessed To Sherwood Heather Reeves Timothy G Jr. Located At 11618 Seaward Rd 00210 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 21 P 4 Seaward Road Harbour Bay CM. Assessment $278,300. Total Due $6,113.30.

Acct# 02029162 Assessed To Shockley Ralph Estes Jr. Located At 7750 Shockley Rd Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As Lot 2A 5.05 Acs E/S Shockley Rd Bndry Ln Adjus Ralph Shockley Jr. Assessment $258,000. Total Due $5,501.28.

Acct# 02011662 Assessed To Skidmore Lillie E. Located At Market St Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As 6 Acs N W Side R-394 S Of Snow Hill. Assessment $39,500. Total Due $2,308.85.

Acct# 03091570 Assessed To Snyder Claude & Snyder Deborah A. Located At 73 Boston Dr Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot B-11-161 10343 Sq Ft Gloucester Rd Pl Ocean Pines Sec 11. Assessment $315,633. Total Due $6,442.27.

Acct# 01017950 Assessed To Soghomonian John. Located At 406 Second St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 82' X 140' 406 Second St & Walnut St. Assessment $84,400. Total Due $4,042.05.

Acct# 05021650 Assessed To Sovereign Edwin P III. Located At 12012 St Martins Neck Rd Bishopville, Md 21813. Described As Lot 4-3.00 Acs S/S St Martins Neck Rd For Consv Pl G Marvin Steen. Assessment $161,900. Total Due $3,588.19.

Acct# 02018691 Assessed To Spain Shane C II & Spain Shannon N. Located At 104 E Market St Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As 102.5' X 100' 104 E Market St Snow Hill. Assessment $234,200. Total Due $9,169.10.

Acct# 01011065 Assessed To Spivey Lisa Wise & Barry Wise Tennell Tina & Ruth Leatherbury. Located At 1339 Buck Harbor Rd Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As App 1 Ac Buck Harbor Rd S Of Pocomoke. Assessment $24,800. Total Due $621.12.

Acct# 08005249 Assessed To Stockton Community Center Inc. Located At 1550 St Paul's Rd Stockton, Md 21864. Described As 151' X 120' X 192' X 120' Little Red School Nr Pocomoke Rd. Assessment $28,600.

Total Due $309.00.

Acct# 10098521 Assessed To Stotler Stacy L. Located At 718 Mooring Rd B104 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U B104 Mooring Rd The Chateau CM. Assessment $312,867. Total Due $8,942.01.

Acct# 10356636 Assessed To Struble Lester J Struble Ann C. Located At 31 Mystic Harbour Blvd Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot 246 Blk J 6753 Sq Ft Mystic Harb Blvd Mystic Harbour Sec 3B. Assessment $219,700. Total Due $3,135.72. Acct# 10052009 Assessed To Symanski Raymond H Jr & Symanski Katherine Lassetter. Located At 15 35th St 0204 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 204 35th St Seven Seas CM. Assessment $199,167. Total Due $5,849.40.

Acct# 03062317 Assessed To Szczybor Anthony L. Located At 152 Sandyhook Rd Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot B-03-060 11129 Sq Ft Pinehurst Road Pl Ocean Pines Sec 3. Assessment $220,233. Total Due $4,617.65.

Acct# 08000905 Assessed To Taylor Alfred C Taylor Doretha C. Located At 4206 Betheden Ct Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As Lot 4 1.03 Acs Betheden Church Road Pl Betheden Court. Assessment $130,500. Total Due $2,784.14.

Acct# 01035258 Assessed To Thornton Justin Francois Samantha. Located At Acorn Cir Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As Lot 4 Acorn Circle White Oaks Subdiv. Assessment $32,100. Total Due $1,610.85. Acct# 05001250 Assessed To Tingle Norman B & Tingle George & Others. Located At 9506 Morris Rd Bishopville, Md 21813. Described As 21.07 Acs South Side Morris Road S Of Selbyville. Assessment $142,033. Total Due $3,225.10.

Acct# 01022717 Assessed To Titus Properties LLC. Located At 101 Fourth St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 77.5' X 158.5' X 75.5 X 150.5 E Side 101 Fourth & Oxford Sts. Assessment $24,600. Total Due $1,256.19.

Acct# 01016474 Assessed To Titus Properties LLC. Located At 704 Fourth St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 7756.5 Sq Ft 704 Fourth St Add't To James Robinson Lot. Assessment $20,100. Total Due $1,043.43.

Acct# 01020854 Assessed To Titus Properties LLC. Located At 705 Fifth St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 66' X 65'10'' X 67' X 70' E Side Fifth & Young Sts Pocomoke. Assessment $18,000. Total Due $944.13.

Acct# 01020153 Assessed To Titus Properties LLC. Located At 708 & 710 Fifth St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 9282 Sq Ft 708 & 710 5th St Pocomoke. Assessment $18,200. Total Due $953.58.

Acct# 01032844 Assessed To Titus Properties LLC. Located At 713 Sixth St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 85' X 100' E Side 713 Sixth St Pocomoke. Assessment $18,200. Total Due $953.58.

Acct# 10003024 Assessed To Todd William Bryan Jr & Elizabeth Ann & William B Sr & Sarah F Todd. Located At 12528 Salisbury Rd Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Lot 7 & Pt Lot

Salisbury Rd Pl Cape Isle Of Wight. Assessment $243,500. Total Due $4,866.36.

Acct# 01023586 Assessed To Topping Shawntay D. Located At 413 Bank St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 63 X 92 X 54 X 119 N Side 413 Bank St Pocomoke. Assessment $34,200. Total Due $1,513.11.

Acct# 02003449 Assessed To Townsend Charles & Tokysha P. Located At 5414 Sweet Spire Ln Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As 3.8615 Acs N/E Side Forest Lane Road N W Of Snow Hill. Assessment $82,700. Total Due $1,860.12.

Acct# 02021862 Assessed To Travers Alan. Located At 511 Church St Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As 7,143 Sq Ft 511 Church St Snow Hill Lot Adj Ld Aydelotte Pl. Assessment $119,900. Total Due $3,340.43.

Acct# 02022729 Assessed To Truitt Karen L. Located At Belt St Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As 68' X 160' 212 Purnell & Belt Sts Snow Hill. Assessment $3,900. Total Due $455.42.

Acct# 01021923 Assessed To Turner Donald. Located At 409 Walnut St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 50' X 152' 409 Walnut St Pocomoke. Assessment $24,200. Total Due $1,237.30.

Acct# 01013734 Assessed To Turner Lena Edith For Life. Located At Payne Rd Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 3/4 Ac NE Side Critcher Road S Of Pocomoke. Assessment $19,800. Total Due $768.75.

Acct# 08001472 Assessed To Tyndall William Jackson. Located At 2816 Snow Hill Rd Girdletree, Md 21829. Described As Lot X E Side R 12 Girdletree. Assessment $26,200. Total Due $55,853.99.

Acct# 02023040 Assessed To Walterhoefer Taryn. Located At 208 Federal St Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As 80' X 120' X 77' X 208 E Federal & Purnell Sts Snow Hill. Assessment $234,700. Total Due $6,287.92.

Acct# 10264766 Assessed To Watson Roger C & Brenda L. Located At 107 Convention Center Dr 00620 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 62 P B Convention Center Drive Thunder Island CM. Assessment $398,767. Total Due $11,568.02.

Acct# 02026716 Assessed To Whaley Raye Gillette. Located At 100 Washington St Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As 57' X 89.5' S Washington St Snow Hill. Assessment $122,700. Total Due $4,958.38.

Acct# 03056465 Assessed To Wienhold Jonathan Christian. Located At 78 Birdnest Dr Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot B-06-173 11672 Sq Ft Birdnest Dr Plat Ocean Pines Sec 6. Assessment $328,800. Total Due $5,338.12.

Acct# 05001471 Assessed To Willey James Douglas & Willey Tina Marie Reaves. Located At 10207 Hotel Rd Bishopville, Md 21813. Described As 11 Acs S Side Line Hotel Road S Of Selbyville. Assessment $406,500. Total Due $8,614.75.

Acct# 01021729 Assessed To Willey Joshua Charles. Located At 608 Walnut St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 51.48' X 154.68' X 48 X 150.46 Walnut St Pocomoke. Assess-

ment $117,000. Total Due $3,609.98.

Acct# 03088146 Assessed To Willman David M. Located At 438 Ocean Pkwy 13 Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Unit Am Borderlinks Dr Pl Borderlinks I. Assessment $218,833. Total Due $4,700.11.

Acct# 10019451 Assessed To Wooden Maryellen. Located At 8209 Stephen Decatur Hwy Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As 100' X 300' Nw Side Stephen Decatur Road. Assessment $127,500. Total Due $2,931.06.

Acct# 03084302 Assessed To Wright Cinnamon. Located At 9 Twilight Ct Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot B-09-625 9750 Sq Ft Twillight Ct Pl Ocean Pines Sec 9. Assessment $322,533. Total Due $6,605.66.

Acct# 01029207 Assessed To Young George Edwin III & Brenda Ann. Located At 1504 Market St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 16,283 Sq Ft S Side Market St Bndy Ln Adj Eastrn Shore Poultr. Assessment $96,300. Total Due $4,516.53.

Acct# 01007157 Assessed To Young John W & Helen F. Located At Stockton Rd Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 58' X 75' Mason Lot S Side Stockton Rd. Assessment $6,300. Total Due $308.04.

Acct# 10230268 Assessed To Yurcisin Paula E. Located At 4000 Coastal Hwy 0311 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 311 Btw 40th & 41st Sts Ocean Point No 2 CM. Assessment $177,133. Total Due $5,198.21.

TERMS OF SALE

All bidders must register. Registration for the sale begins at 10:00 a.m. April 17th and ends promptly at 4:00 p.m. May 1st. Proper identification for individuals and proof of existence for legal entities shall be required by RealAuction for all registrants. In order to bid, an individual or entity must be registered.

ACH will need to be tendered by 4:00 p.m. FRIDAY, MAY 15th on the final date of sale. It shall be in the amount of taxes due including expenses of sale (attorney, auctioneer, advertising and miscellaneous). A receipt will then be issued by RealAuction. A tax sale certificate will be provided by mail to the tax sale purchaser within thirty days of the date of the sale.

These properties are offered for sale “AS IS”, at the risk of the purchasers and neither the undersigned nor any other party makes any warranties or representations whatsoever either expressed or implied, of any kind or character, with respect to the properties or the title thereto. In the event a tax sale certificate is issued and then voided by the Treasurer, through no fault of the buyer, only a refund of amounts actually paid on day of sale shall be made and shall be the Treasurer’s sole liability and limit thereon. Properties are listed and sold based upon information provided by the State Department of Assessments and Taxation, which is in no way represented to be accurate or correct. The sale, the premises, and the properties are, to the extent provided by law, subject to any and all title defects, claims, liens, encum-

brances, covenants, conditions, restrictions, easements, rights-of-way and matters of records. In the event of mistake, defective title, description or nonexistence of property, no refund shall be given.

Bidders should be well versed in the law regarding tax sales and should investigate the properties and titles thereto prior to purchase or bid.

Competent legal advice should be sought by prospective bidders prior to the sale. No legal advice shall be given by the County Attorney, Treasurer, or staff.

Bidders representing legal entities are limited to one bidder per property sold. Bidding shall be conducted in accordance with procedures determined by the Treasurer or his agent at the sale.

All costs in connection with the foreclosure of the right of redemption and all other title costs are at the expense of the purchaser or purchasers. All taxes and fees and other impositions including, without limitation, the following: transfer tax, agricultural transfer tax, recordation tax, and recording costs required will likewise be at the expense of the purchaser or purchasers. Terms of sale shall be complied with as determined by the Treasurer, who shall be the sole judge of such.

These requirements are directory as to the Treasurer and not mandatory. They may be altered by the Treasurer at his sole discretion in the interests of justice, fairness, and efficiency or other good and valid reason.

PROPERTIES LISTED HEREIN, ON WHICH TAXES ARE PAID PRIOR TO DATE OF SALE WILL NOT BE SOLD.

ONDREA STARZHEVSKIY TREASURER AND FINANCE OFFICER FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND AND COLLECTOR OF STATE AND COUNTY TAXES FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND OCD-4/16/4t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of VICTORIA KATHLEEN JOHNSON Estate No. 21087 Notice is given that JACQUELINE REID PLOOF whose address is 183 GREEN ST., ANNAPOLIS, MD 21401-2501; DONNA BUSH whose address is 5804 ARGYLE DR., PARSONSBURG, MD 21849-2075 were on APRIL 06, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of VICTORIA KATHLEEN JOHNSON who died on JANUARY 17, 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 6th day of OCTOBER, 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 OCTOBER, 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-4/16/3t _________________________________

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of RICHARD ARNOLD MAXIMOWICZ SR. Estate No. 21088 Notice is given that LINDA SIMON whose address is 26 N. PINTAIL DR., BERLIN, MD 21811-1736 was on APRIL 07, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of RICHARD ARNOLD MAXIMOWICZ SR. who died on FEBRUARY 26, 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 7th day of OCTOBER, 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 7th day of OCTOBER, 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-4/16/3t

IN THE ORPHANS’ COURT FOR (OR) BEFORE THE REGISTER OF WILLS FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND IN THE ESTATE OF:

EMMANUEL LOPEZ JR. ESTATE NO. 20980

PUBLIC NOTICE TO CAVEAT

To all persons interested in the above estate:

Notice is given that a petition to caveat has been filed by Emmanuel Anthony Lopez, Andrew Curtis Lopez, Jordan Parker Lopez & Tucker David Lopez challenging the will dated 05/22/2024.

You may obtain from the Register of wills the date and time of any hearing on this matter.

Terri Westcott Register of Wills

Name of newspaper: Ocean City Digest

Date of publication: April 23, 2026

OCD-4/23/2t

ARLETTE K BRIGHT ESQ

THE LAW OFFICES OF ARLETTE K. BRIGHT, PC 1002 EASTERN SHORE DRIVE, #B

SALISBURY, MD 21804

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of LOTTA MAE WIMBROW Estate No. 13825 Notice is given that JOHN J. WIMBROW whose address is 310 S. CHURCH ST., SNOW HILL, MD 21863 was on APRIL 13, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of LOTTA MAE WIMBROW who died on OCTOBER 16, 2009 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 13th day of OCTOBER, 2026

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of on or before the 13th day of OCTOBER, 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-4/16/3t

ARLETTE K BRIGHT ESQ

THE LAW OFFICES OF ARLETTE K. BRIGHT, PC 1002 EASTERN SHORE DRIVE, #B

SALISBURY, MD 21804

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of JOHN WILLIAM WIMBROW Estate No. 20095 Notice is given that JOHN J WIMBROW whose address is 301 S CHURCH STREET, SNOW HILL, MD 21863 was on APRIL 13, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOHN WILLIAM WIMBROW who died on FEBRUARY 04, 2024 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 13th day of OCTOBER, 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 13th day of OCTOBER, 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-4/16/3t

PATRICK D. HANLEY JR. SHAFFER LAW OFFICE

836 S. MAIN ST., STE. 101 BEL AIR, MD 21014-4169

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20908 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ROBERT G. BURGIO

Notice is given that Wendy Campbell, 32 Saint Marks Church Rd., Perryville, MD 21903-2564, was on April 14, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Robert G. Burgio who died on September 17, 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 14th day of October, 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 14th day of October, 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.

Wendy Campbell

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: April 23, 2026

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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21092 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF DONALD CLARK HOWARD

Notice is given that Jennifer Oakley, 1257 Robert Dinkins Rd., Sumter, SC 29150-1938, was on April 10, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Donald Clark Howard who died on March 31, 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 10th day of October, 2026.

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

Jennifer Oakley 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: April 23, 2026

PETER S. BUAS, ESQ.

COASTAL LAW OFFICE, LLC

3509 COASTAL HWY. OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3334

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of ROLAND H. PEARSON

AKA. ROLAND HOWARD PERSON Estate No. 21032 Notice is given that BETSY GODBOLD whose address is 9100 MEDITERRANEAN DR., OCEAN CITY, D 21842-5010 was on APRIL 17, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ROLAND H. PEARSON who died on JANUARY 31, 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 17th day of OCTOBER, 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 17th day of OCTOBER, 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-4/23/3t

RAYMOND D. COATES JR., ESQ. COATES, COATES, & COATES, P.A.

6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES

ESTATE NO. 21096

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the REGISTER OF WILLS court of LANCASTER, PENNSYLVANIA

appointed (1) ROBERT T. GOODHART whose address is 1401 HAINES AVE., WILMINGTON, DE

19809-2716, (2) PATRICK N. WARD whose address is 70 GOODS RD., CONESTOGA, PA 17516-9731 as the PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE of the Estate of JEAN M. HAMBLETON who died on SEPTEMBER 06, 2025 domiciled in PENNSYLVANIA, USA.

The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is (1) RAYMOND D. COATES JR. whose address is 6200 COASTAL HWY., STE. 300, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-6698, (2) RAYMOND D. COATES JR. whose address is 6200 COASTAL HWY., STE. 300, OCEAN CITY, MD 218426698. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: WORCESTER.

All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or

(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

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RACHEL B. HARRIS ESQ. P.O. BOX 62

POCOMOKE CITY, MD 218510062

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21098

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF TINA MARIE MASON

Notice is given that Kenneth Kinard, 833 Ocean Hwy., Pocomoke City, MD 21851-3011, was on April 20, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Tina Marie Mason who died on March 22, 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 20th day of October, 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 October, 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.

Kenneth Kinard

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: April 23, 2026

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS AGENDA

WEDNESDAY MAY 20, 2026

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

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

6:30 p.m. Case No. 26-28, on the lands of Naida Kalloo, requesting a special exception to allow a 7-foot tall fence in the rear yard in the R-1 Rural Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3) and ZS 1-305(k)(3)C located at 12002 Sunflower Court, Tax Map 15, Parcel 218, Lot 33, Tax District 5, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:35 p.m. Case No. 26-21, on the lands of David M. Nolan III, requesting a variance to the rear yard setback from 25 feet to 21.75 feet (to encroach 3.25 feet) for a proposed open deck in the R-1 Rural Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1205(b)(2) and ZS 1-305 located at 10216 Ruffian Lane, Tax Map 26, Parcel 1, Lot 36, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:40 p.m. Case No. 26-22, on the lands of the Mildred Stewart Warfield Revocable Trust, on the application of Shahin Batmanglich, re-

questing a special exception to expand a nonconforming structure to construct an addition to an existing residence in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(5), ZS 1122(d)(1), ZS 1-116(c)(3), ZS 1206(b)(2) and ZS 1-305, located at 10402 Exeter Road, Tax Map 21, Parcel 8, Section A, Block 9, Lot 9A, in the Tenth Tax District of Worcester County, Maryland.

6:45 p.m. Case No. 26-4, on the lands of Schell Properties LLC, on the application of Hugh Cropper IV, requesting a variance to the front yard setback from 75 feet to 67.33 feet (to encroach 7.67 feet) for a proposed residence in the R-3 Multifamily Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-207(b)(2) and ZS 1-305, located on the south side of Old Bridge Road approximately 335 feet west of Golf Course Road, Tax Map 27, Parcel 280, Block B, Lot 8-A, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland. 6:50 p.m. Case No. 26-5, on the lands of Schell Properties LLC, on the application of Hugh Cropper IV, requesting a variance to the front yard setback from 75 feet to 67.33 feet (to encroach 7.67 feet) for a proposed residence in the R-3 Multifamily Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-207(b)(2) and ZS 1-305, located on the south side of Old Bridge Road approximately 287 feet west of Golf Course Road, Tax Map 27, Parcel 280, Block B, Lot 9-A, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland. 6:55 p.m. Case No. 26-6, on the lands of Schell Properties LLC, on the application of Hugh Cropper IV, requesting a variance to the front yard setback from 75 feet to 67.33 feet (to encroach 7.67 feet) for a proposed residence in the R-3 Multifamily Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-207(b)(2) and ZS 1-305, located on the south side of Old Bridge Road approximately 239 feet west of Golf Course Road, Tax Map 27, Parcel 280, Block B, Lot 10-A, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland. 7:00 p.m. Case No. 26-26, on the lands of William A. Elwell, on the application of Hugh Cropper IV, requesting an after-the-fact variance to the side yard setback from 20 feet to 17.41 feet (to encroach 2.59 feet) for an existing accessory residential structure in the A-1 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-201(b)(5), ZS 1201(d)(2) and ZS 1-305, located at 8218 Stevens Road, Tax Map 35, Parcel 106, Lot 4, Tax District 7, Worcester County, Maryland.

7:05 p.m. Case No. 26-27, on the lands of Pilot House LLC, on the application of Hugh Cropper IV, requesting a special exception to enlarge and relocate an existing nonconforming use (a single-family dwelling) in the CM Commercial Marine District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(5), ZS 1122(d)(1), ZS 1-214 and ZS 1-305, located at 12855 Harbor Road, Tax Map 27, Parcel 382, Lot 54, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

7:10 p.m. Case No. 26-23, on the lands of Nicholas C. C. Craven and

Casey Lee Craven, on the application of Mark Spencer Cropper, requesting an after-the-fact variance to the front yard setback from 25 feet to 23.46 feet (to encroach 1.54 feet) for an existing cantilevered living area above an existing pool house in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-206(b)(2), ZS 1206(d)(1) and ZS 1-305, located at 12122 Snug Harbor Road, Tax Map 33, Parcel 303, Lot 3, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

7:15 p.m. Case No. 26-24, on the lands of 611 Holdings II LLC, on the application of Mark Spencer Cropper, requesting two (2) special exceptions for (1) an 8-foot high privacy fence in the front yard and (2) a storage yard/marine yard, and two (2) front yard setback variances for the storage yard/marine yard from 50 feet from the centerline of the road ROW to 25 feet (to encroach 25 feet) along Sinepuxent Road and from 50 feet to 5 feet (to encroach 45 feet) along Stephen Decatur Highway in the C-1 Neighborhood Commercial District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3), ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1209(c)(15), ZS 1-305(b)(1) and (2), and ZS 1-305(k)(3), located on the west side of Stephen Decatur Highway approximately 20 feet north of Airport Road, Tax Map 26, Parcel 211, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

7:20 p.m. Case No. 26-25, on the lands of KCJ Farms LLC, on the application of Mark Spencer Cropper, requesting a special exception to relocate a previously-approved dredge spoil disposal site in the A-1 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3) and ZS 1201(c)(26), located at 6220 Disharoon Road, Tax Map 55, Parcel 39, Tax District 2, Worcester County, Maryland.

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NOTICE

OF PUBLIC HEARINGS BOARD OF PORT WARDENS

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 106 ”Waterways,” Article II – “Shoreline Development” of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Port Wardens Ordinance of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland.

Thursday, May 14, 2:00 PM

PW 26-022 A request has been submitted to remove existing structures, install 51’ of new bulkheading, construct a new 4’ x 32’ parallel platform, a 4’ x 20’ timber pier, and install one boatlift with associated pilings maximum channelward extension 24’. The site of the proposed

construction is described as being located at 503 S SURF RD Parcel # 9513A-1-12 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Michael Leonard

APPLICANT: Lane Engineering, c/o Sarah Freund

PW 26-023 A request has been submitted to install 60 linear feet of rip rap shoreline revetment located on the Clubhouse Beach; the installation of 6’ x 60’ of low-profile rip rap sill at the Northwest Beach; to create 545 square feet of salt march habitat on the east side of an existing beach stabilization groin located at the Northeast Beach. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 1 BEACH SIDE DR Parcel # 6684 -1 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT/OWNER: Sunset Island Community

PW 26-024 A request has been submitted to install support pilings in front of existing 60’ bulkhead; construct a 2’ x 30’ platform with a 4.5’ x 13’ angled platform and a 4’/6’ angled x 15.5’ pier; to install one boat lift with associated pilings and 2 PWC floating docks all a maximum channelward extension of 17.5’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 301 S HERON GULL CT Parcel # 6071A104 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Ken Lefebvre Living Trust

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc.

PW 26-025 A request has been submitted to install two elevator type boatlifts with associated poles, maximum channelward extension of 13’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 611 S SURF RD Parcel # 9525A-13 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Adam Wood

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Associates

PW 26-026 A request has been submitted to install two PWC lifts on existing piles not to exceed 14’ maximum channelward extension. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 639 BAYSHORE DR UNIT 6 Parcel # 5335 -6 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Michael Beardsley

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc.

PW 26-027 A request has been submitted to install one boat lift on existing pilings not to exceed 28’ channelward extension. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 505 EDGEWATER AVE UNIT B Parcel # 4120 -10-14 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Robert Morris III

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc.

PW 26-028 A request has been submitted to replace an existing 3’ x 18’ pier with the same sized pier moving the new structure 1.5’ west in the existing slip and installing two pilings. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 631 94TH ST UNIT C Parcel # 8962 -13C in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Anthony Mitrone

APPLICANT: Kayla L. Lewis c/o Ocean City Boatlifts OCD-4/30/2t

MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL NOTICE OF PROPOSED LEGISLATION ORDINANCE 2026-03

NOTICE is hereby given by the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill that Ordinance 2026-03 was introduced for first reading at a regular meeting on April 14, 2026. A fair summary of the ordinance is as follows: AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF SNOW HILL APPROVING AND ADOPTING THE BUDGET AND THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN FOR FISCAL YEAR (FY) 2027 THAT INCLUDES ALL REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES FOR THE PERIOD JULY 1, 2026, THROUGH JUNE 30, 2027 AND APPROPRIATING SAID FUNDS IN SAID BUDGET AND ESTABLISHING THE LEVY FOR SAID FISCAL YEAR.

The Mayor and Council of Snow Hill (“Snow Hill”) desires to approve and adopt the budget and the capital improvement plan for fiscal year (FY) 2027. The second reading will take place on May 12, 2026 at the regular Town Hall meeting. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review at Town Hall, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863. OCD-4/30/1t

NOTICE

OF PUBLIC HEARING MAYOR & COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL, MARYLAND

TUESDAY May 12, 2026 at 7:00 PM

The Town of Snow Hill will conduct a Public Hearing to obtain the views of citizens on community, economic development, and housing needs to be considered for submission of an application to the Maryland Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG). The Town will be applying for funding for the Bank Street Promenade Project. Citizens will have the opportunity to discuss proposed projects and to provide input on other needs to be considered. The hearing will be held at the Worcester County Government Center, Boardroom, Room 1102, One West Market St., Snow Hill, MD, 21863, on May 12, 2026 at 7:00pm. The draft application will be available for the public to review on June 22, 2026 until June 26, 2026 at Town Hall, 103 Bank St., Snow Hill, MD,

21863 during normal business hours.

Citizens will be furnished with information including but not limited to:

* the amount of CDBG funds available for State Fiscal Year 2026;

* the range of activities that may be undertaken with CDBG funds; and

* the proposed projects under consideration by The Town of Snow Hill.

The Maryland Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program 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. It is administered by the Department of Housing and Community Development. The Maryland CDBG Program reflects the State's economic and community development priorities and provides public funds for activities which meet one of the following national objectives, in accordance with the federal Housing Community Development Act of 1974, as amended, that:

1. benefit to low- and moderate-income persons and households;

2. aid in the prevention or elimination of slums or blight;

3. meet other community development needs of an urgent nature, or that are an immediate threat to community health and welfare.

Efforts will be made to accommodate the disabled and non-English speaking residents with seven days advance notice to Snow Hill Town Hall at #410-632-2080. For further information concerning this public hearing, please contact the Town Manager’s Office, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, Maryland, 21863, #410632-2080.

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NOTICE

OF

APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21060 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF STANFORD WILLIAMS

Notice is given that Ernestine Warnpeh, 400 Mitchell St., Apt. 208, Millsboro, DE 19966-3724, was on April 24, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Stanford Williams who died on January 20, 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 24th day of October, 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 24th day of October, 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.

Ernestine Warnpeh 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: April 30, 2026

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SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of BARBARA JO MASON Estate No. 21099 Notice is given that BOYD JEFFERSON MASON 2ND whose address is 10423 GOLF COURSE RD., OCEAN CITY, D 21842-9101 was on APRIL 22, 2026 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of BARBARA JO MASON who died on JUNE 01, 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 represen-

tative 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 OCD-4/30/1t

PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110 of the Code 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, May 19, 2026

AT 6:00 P.M.

To consider amending Chapter 66, entitled “Signs,” of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, specifically Section 66-9, entitled “Insurance;” and Section 66-14, entitled “Signs, Awnings and Banners Projecting Over or Into Public Way or Boardwalk.” The proposed ordinance clarifies regulations governing signs, awnings, and banners projecting over or into public ways, sidewalks, rights-of-way, and the Boardwalk. The ordinance establishes administrative review procedures, encroachment agreement requirements, and removal obligations.

APPLICANT: PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION (PZ FILE #26-14100003)

AT: 6:05 P.M.

To consider amending Chapter 110, entitled “Zoning,” Article IV, entitled “Districts,” Division 23, entitled “Downtown Design Overlay Zone District,” specifically Section 110-831.27, entitled “Signs;” and Division 26, entitled “Upper Downtown Design Overlay Zone District,” specifically Section 110-865.25, entitled “Signage,” of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. The proposed ordinance clarifies and updates sign regulations within the Downtown Design Overlay Zone District and Upper Downtown Design Overlay Zone District and establishes consistency with Chapter 66 requirements for signs, awnings, and banners located within, to include but not limited to, public ways, rights-of-way, and the Boardwalk.

APPLICANT: PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION (PZ FILE #26-14100003)

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 contin-

ued 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: 410289-8855.

PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION

JOSEPH P. WILSON, CHAIRPERSON MAUREEN HOWARTH, ESQ., ATTORNEY

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NOTICE of Public Hearing

Worcester County FY 2026 Requested Enterprise Funds Operating Budget Amendment

The Worcester County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing to receive comments on the proposed FY 2026 Enterprise Funds Operating Budget Amendment on:

Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. in the County Commissioners’ Meeting Room Room 1101 Government Center, One West Market Street Snow Hill, Maryland 21863

The FY 2026 Enterprise Funds Operating Budget Amendment is to appropriate funds related to previously approved encumbrances and over expenditures for water, wastewater and solid waste. For additional information please visit the County Treasurer’s Office in Room 1105 of the County Government Center in Snow Hill or online at co.worcestser.md.us.

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Berlin council weighs July 3 fireworks show

Officials discuss whether display should take place in ‘27 with current shortfall

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(May 1, 2026) The Berlin Town Council discussed eliminating the community’s Independence Day fireworks celebration as part of a broader effort to reduce a $400,000 shortfall in the drafted fiscal year 2027 spending plan.

At a Berlin mayor and council meeting this week, the governing body debated ways to fix the $408,000 gap between projected revenues and expenditures in the work-in-progress FY27 budget.

The extensive discussion resulted in about $389,000 being eliminated from the draft, approximately $11,000 of which would come from cancellation of the annual July 3 fireworks.

Berlin Finance Director Natalie Saleh said that she heard from Town Economic and Community Development Director Ivy Wells, who was not in attendance at Monday night’s meeting. Wells suggested that, considering the municipality’s deficit in the financial plan, the fireworks display would be the easiest to cut for 2027.

In an email to OC Today-Dispatch Tuesday, Wells said “the entertain-

ment and activities people enjoy at the town’s sponsored events are almost entirely paid for through grants, sponsorships, or vendor fees. The town’s primary costs, whether it’s the town’s events or partner events, are tied to setup, staffing during the event, and cleanup.”

She added that the towns’s grant, donation and sponsorship funding can be found in the budget under ‘MAINSTREET

TOURISM’ and currently contains $128,904.72.

However, the July 3 celebration, along with the Christmas Parade, are the only festivities not fully offset by outside help. The fireworks have a few sponsors to contribute to the $12,000 total but yield a higher direct expense for the town than other community events.

make informed decisions. Given the conversation last night, it was simply the most straightforward place to point when discussing potential cost reductions, because it’s the largest direct expense tied to an event.”

The council on Monday agreed that the fireworks could be removed, at least for this year.

‘I get just as many comments asking why we still do this with the number of people who have PTSD…Many people do not appreciate the fireworks. We hear it both ways, no doubt.’ Shaneka Nichols, Councilmember

“We need to make these cuts,” Councilman Steve Green said. “In this certain situation, do I watch the fireworks? Yes. Do I feel like there’s a mass economic impact for the Town of Berlin? Probably not. We can say, ‘let’s remove the July 3 fireworks from the budget.’

But if we do get stopped in the grocery store about how much it will be missed, I think we should revisit that.”

Members of the audience on Monday night said they wanted to see more cuts, specifically citing town events.

Resident Carol Rose noted that Ocean City and Ocean Pines host fireworks displays, so kids and families will not miss out on the summertime event if Berlin opts to forgo it this year.

“It’s hard decisions, we’re all living this way,” she said.

Citizen Ron Cassio agreed. He added that the town hosts an abundance of celebrations, and that not all of them may be necessary.

“These are events meant to promote the town,” he said. “... I don’t believe we need to promote the Town of Berlin. I think we have enough promotion done. Everyone knows who we are and where we are. Times are tough; we’re not taking a vacation or doing anything else this year.

Wells noted that she would like to see the summer celebration continue but suggested to municipal officials it made the most sense to do away with in light of the FY27 budget shortfall.

“I want to be clear: I’m not advocating to cut fireworks,” Wells said.

“My role is to lay out the numbers and options so the mayor and council can

Councilmember Shaneka Nichols agreed, but added that not every Berlin resident enjoys the fireworks.

“I get just as many comments asking why we still do this with the number of people who have PTSD…Many people do not appreciate the fireworks. We hear it both ways, no doubt,” she said.

“Maybe this year it’s time to say, ‘folks, it’s tough.’ These events are kind of easy to cut, at least from what I can see. We just have to tighten our belts this year, but people need to understand…I’m sure they’re cutting things; it’s time for us to cut things. Maybe temporarily.”

An introduction of the FY27 budget is slated for May 26, followed by adoption by the Town Council on June 8.

Debt service fees will drop for Ocean Pines water bills

Worcester

public funds. Account returns there climbed from 1.5% in 2022 to 3.7%, generating an additional $784,000 in interest income.

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(May 1, 2026) Ocean Pines sewer customers will see one part of their quarterly bill cut in half, as Worcester County moves to pay down some long-term debt.

The county plans to reduce the sewer district’s debt service fee from $36 to $18 per quarter, a change that would affect roughly 10,000 users in Ocean Pines.

The combined surplus totals about $1.76 million. The county will use $1.46 million of that to pay off two remaining bonds from 2014 and 2015.

“We’re trying to find ways of lowering the bill,” said County Administrator Weston Young. “That’s where it makes sense to pay off the debt so that there isn’t the quarterly charge” tied to older obligations.

The rate cut comes as county officials are also dealing with a separate billing issue that could result in additional savings for some customers.

Officials say the savings are the result of a growing reserve fund, built up over the past few years through a combination of debt payoff and higher investment returns.

By using that money to retire older obligations early, the county can reduce the amount it needs to collect from ratepayers.

The commissioners recently learned that a flaw in the county’s water and sewer billing system may have pushed some users into higher rate tiers sooner than intended, potentially leading to overcharges.

“The reality is that we’re faced with higher costs from a regulatory standpoint, inspection standpoint, chemicals, maintenance,” said Commissioner Chip Bertino (District 5, Ocean Pines). “So, it’s nice to get a win for the ratepayers on this one.”

County staff are now working to identify affected accounts and determine how bills would have differed under a corrected system. Officials are expected to return with options for issuing credits or refunds, though no timeline has been set.

For commercial businesses in Ocean Pines with more than one EDU, they will also see a savings of $18 per EDU, Bertino added.

The county realized about $972,000 in savings and interest after retiring a 2019 bond, according to an April 15 internal memo.

The proposed changes are part of the county’s fiscal year 2027 budget. It includes a 5% increase in base rates for 10 of the county’s 11 water and sewer service areas, along with more than $1.1 million in general fund subsidies to support districts that continue to operate at a deficit.

At the same time, the county benefited from rising interest rates through the Maryland Local Government Investment Pool, where it holds

April 30 - May 7

If the commissioners approve credits for some water-sewer accounts, “that will mean significant savings for business, not just in Ocean Pines, but other services areas,” Bertino said.

11am-4pm Heron Harbour, 120th St., Bayside, Ocean City 1BR/2BR/3BR/4BR+ Condos, Towns & SF - Nanette Pavier/Holiday Real Estate Mon-Fri, 9am-4pm 12430 Old Bridge Rd., West OC 2BR/2BA

Friday 11am-1pm 30847 E Annie Lank Ave. Unit 1203, Milton, DE 3BR/2BA

Friday 2-4pm 13307 Wight Street #101, Ocean City 1BR/1BA

Friday 3-5pm 37033 Barrington Pkwy, Millville, DE 4BR/3.5BA

Saturday 10:30am-12:30pm 10300 Coastal Hwy # 1808, Ocean City 2BR/2BA

Sat & Sun, 11am-3pm 12430 Old Bridge Rd., West OC 2BR/2BA

Saturday 11am-1pm 11964 W War Dancer Ln #107, Glen Riddle 4BR/4BA

Saturday 11am-1pm 7710 Yacht Club Drive, Ocean Pines 2BR/2BA

Saturday 11am-1pm 8715 Old Ocean City Rd, Berlin 4BR/2BA

Saturday 1-4pm 6201 Coastal Hwy #806, Ocean City 4BR/3BA

Saturday 2-4pm 71 Hingham Lane, Ocean Pines 4BR/2.5BA

Sunday 11am-1pm 32 Gatehouse Trail, Ocean Pines 3BR/2BA

Sunday 11:30am-1:30pm 11324 River Run Lane, Berlin 3BR/3.5BA

Sunday Noon-2pm 5 129th Street, Ocean City 3BR/2BA

Landon/ Coldwell Banker Realty

Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty

Landon/ Coldwell Banker Realty

Shelly Wilson/Salt Life Community

Ocean City plans to install new EV charging stations

Drivers can connect fast or slow at four resort locations

(May 1, 2026) Ahead of the summer season, the Town of Ocean City has partnered with Maryland-based ezVOLTz to upgrade and expand its electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

Official said the project will deliver a more reliable, higher-capacity network across key municipal locations, helping the resort meet rising EV demand from residents and visitors.

The deployment includes a mix of DC fast chargers (10% to 80% in 20–45 minutes) and Level 2 stations (10% to 80% in 4 to 8 hours), strategically placed to improve accessibility, reduce wait times, and ensure consistent performance during peak travel periods, a city news release said.

“This investment reflects Ocean City’s commitment to cleaner transportation and an enhanced visitor experience, particularly as seasonal demand places added strain on traditional fuel infrastructure,” a news release reads.

Charger locations are:

• Roland E. Powell Convention Center South Lot — Two DC Fast Chargers, • Six Level 2 Chargers.

• Worcester Street Parking Area — Two Level 2 Chargers.

• Ocean City 100th St Library — Four Level 2 Chargers.

• Northside Park — Two Level 2 Chargers.

The city says ezVOLTz led the project from site assessment through installation and commissioning. The company also worked with Royal Plus Electric to support installation efforts.

REAL ESTATE MARKETPLACE

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Charging stations like these pictured in a submitted

Ocean 98 hosts candidates for on-air forum

election.

By Stewart Dobson Editor

(May 1, 2026) The five City Council candidates sitting against the back wall of the Ocean 98.1 radio studio upstairs in the Secrets complex Monday morning had two things in common other than their pursuit of one of two open council seats in Ocean City’s May 8 special

First, none of them had ever participated in a forum like this one — a radio/live streaming event with no audience in front of them other than staff and a single observer.

Secondly, they agreed on the big issues — opposed to offshore wind turbines? Check. Like the idea of a city-owned sports complex located somewhere on the mainland? Check. Believe public safety should occupy the top rung of city-provided services? Absolutely.

Host and Ocean 98.1 manager

Bulldog, who came up with the idea for the forum as part of his “Rude Awakening Morning Show” advised participants Peter Buas, John Adkins, Bill Murphy, Jeff Heiser and Tony DeSanctis at the outset that the onehour session would not be a debate but more of an examination of their perspectives on what the city needs and what they think they’ll bring to local government.

“The idea behind hosting the forum was to give voters a real opportunity to meet the candidates, hear directly from them, and learn more about where they stand on the issues that matter most to Ocean City,” Bulldog said after the show.

“As a local radio station, we have the unique opportunity—and responsibility—to create these kinds of conversations that help keep our community informed and engaged.”

With the exception of the big three issues — offshore wind, the sports complex and public safety — candidates were not asked the same questions.

Asked about his view of issues that need attention, Buas said resort government must do what it can to rebuild its year-round residential base.

“Ocean City has had declining residency ... for some time, and resi-

dents are the lifeblood of this town,” Buas said. “We work here. We live here. We protect the area. And doing what we can to make Ocean City affordable and a great place to live, moving forward, to attract more residents and grow that residence base is critical.”

Although all candidates affirmed their staunch support for public safety, Heiser, a retired Ocean City police lieutenant, went into greater detail.

In addition to citing the need to keep salaries competitive with those in other jurisdictions, he foresees more growth in the department if it is to keep pace with Ocean City’s special events calendar.

“I think at some point we treat this town still like ... Memorial Day to Labor Day. And now our season is extended with all the special events. We have to come up with a number (of sworn officers), and I think that number is probably around 140 since we lost our seasonal program.”

The question of whether all Ocean City’s special events are worth it went to DeSanctis, who said he supports the effort for the most part.

“I think we have to ... say did we make money on that? Did we not lose money? We're bringing in thou-

Debate tackles wind, sportsplex

sands and thousands of people in a short period of time. It's a tremendous economic, you know, impact,” he said.

“With that said ... we've got three major concerts. If you're living from 33rd Street down ... your life's ... pretty not good for a few days there. So it's a trade-off. We are a resort. We have to bring people here to keep it going.”

Asked what his major issues are, Murphy replied that as a 12th Street resident, he is concerned with what the council wants to do about downtown improvement and the parking situation in that area.

“My neighbors and I are very concerned about the parking impact of the widening streets,” he said, adding that he believes the money to be used for that project should be applied instead to building a parking garage. He also advocated relaxing the occupancy regulations governing shortterm rentals.

Adkins, meanwhile, set himself apart somewhat when he was asked why voters should support him.

“When I joined the Navy in nineteen sixty-six,” he began, “I wasn't old enough to vote. Since 1970, I have voted in every single local or federal election, and that's what I ask people to do. Almost everybody in this world would give anything to be able to vote in a free and fair election. I ask people to vote, and it don't have to be for me. Just vote.”

The forum can be viewed in its entirety on Facebook at https://www.face-

LIVE TOURS

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Council candidates await their questions in the studio of Ocean 98.1 Radio upstairs at Seacrets. Pictured , from left, are Peter Buas, John Adkins, Bill Murphy, Jeff Heiser and Tony DeSanctis.

Seafood festival proposal irks restaurateur

says OC Councilman Jake Mitrecic

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 1, 2026) Ocean City officials this week approved an event request for the second annual Ocean City Seafood Festival, but not before a lengthy discussion on how the event may be competing against area restaurants.

Last week, following a request from Councilman Jake Mitrecic, the Ocean City Council voted to hold a work session to review a private event request from the organizer of the Ocean City Seafood Festival. Citing complaints from local businesses, Mitrecic said he wanted to further discuss the event.

“I received a couple of calls last year, and this year as well, about this seafood festival from local purveyors of seafood, local restaurateurs, about the lack of being approached by the promoter, the lack of being approached by the city, and what kind of money or what kind of promotion we’re doing for this event, if there were an alternative that we could be spending that money with local businesses, things like that,” he said. “I just think it’s worth talking about,

worth asking about, kind of seeing where the numbers are with that so we can have a better understanding of it.”

With that said, Tourism and Business Development Director Tom Perlozzo came before council members on Tuesday with the event organizer, Beth Laverick of B Scene Events & Promotions out of Havre de Grace, Md., to review this year’s event approval request and to address concerns related to local involvement.

But before the discussion even began, Robert Higgins of Higgins Crab House came before the City Council during public comments to share his concerns regarding the seafood festival.

“The proposed seafood festival is, in our case, right at our back door,” he said. “And this is an event that competes directly with what we do.”

Higgins argued that the festival was organized by a company from Havre de Grace and featured out-oftown seafood companies. He also pointed out the city’s sponsorship of the festival and its promotions on the city’s social media accounts.

“We’re trying to operate our business, and the city is sponsoring outof-town people to essentially sell the same product and do the same things we’re already doing,” he said. “We’re here 365 days a year, building our fa-

cilities, building our business.”

While he said he didn’t mind competition, Higgins said he wanted to compete “on an even keel.” He also pointed to the timing of the event, which will be held Aug. 29 at Northside Park.

“For the city to promote a group coming in from out of town on a prime summer weekend, I feel like it is not in the business community’s best interests,” he said.

For his part, Perlozzo said the city’s goal is to make the Ocean City Seafood Festival the largest seafood festival in the state of Maryland, which is why he had reached out to Laverick and her team to help put together last year’s event. Both Perlozzo and Laverick noted that the 2025 was largely a success, pointing to the 2,052 tickets sold and the number of visitors coming in from out of town.

“People get very excited for seafood festivals,” she said.

Regarding the council’s concerns about local involvement, Laverick said last year’s festival did include regional restaurants from across the bridge, many of which had participated in yearly seafood festivals she hosted in Havre de Grace. However, she said she had reached out to area restaurants, and some had participated.

explained, was mainly based on availability at Northside Park.

“We wanted to do it in the fall,” Perlozzo added. “This is where we landed.”

Perlozzo told council members this week that he understood their concerns, but noted that other townsponsored events, including Sunfest and Springfest, had food and beverage components to it. He said those events could also be seen as competing with local restaurants.

“Everything is competing,” Councilman John Gehrig added. “We sell food at Springfest. That’s competing too. That, I think, is a potential problem, if we start making those decisions.”

Perlozzo added that while the seafood festival is sponsored by the city, those sponsorship dollars have been reduced by half for the 2026 event. After three years, town support would be eliminated.

The tourism director also brought up social media advertising, a concern Higgins raised during public comments. He said no city advertising dollars were spent to promote the seafood festival.

Ultimately, the City Council agreed to approve this year’s Ocean City Seafood Festival. The motion passed in a 4-0 vote, with Council Secretary Will Savage absent.

Those businesses included Hooper’s, Macky’s, Saltwater 75, Taphouse, Captain’s Galley and Sterling Tavern, to name a few.

“It’s a regional event, and I think it’s nice to have a mix of different restaurants that come.” she said.

Laverick said she welcomes local businesses to participate in this year’s festival, which will be held before Labor Day this year. That move, she

“I’m not going to be the one who upends how we promote and create events in Ocean City,” Mitrecic said.

However, as part of the motion, officials directed the event organizer to create marketing opportunities for local businesses in its promotions for the 2026 event.

“I think we can find a happy middle ground,” Gehrig said.

State recognizes Ocean City Police traffic safety team

Officers earn specialist nod after completing training

(May 1, 2026) Several officers from the Ocean City Police Department were recognized Tuesday during the Maryland Highway Safety Office Traffic Safety Specialist Awards Luncheon held in Edgemere, Maryland.

The Traffic Safety Specialist program highlights officers who demonstrate advanced knowledge, training, and dedication to highway safety and traffic enforcement.

The following officers received their Traffic Safety Specialist I (TSS I) designation: PFC Michael Dzurnak, DFC Austin Mora, PFC Anthony Calabrese, PFC Timothy Chaykosky.

The TSS I designation recognizes officers who have completed specialized training and met requirements that include detection certification, standardized field sobriety testing, advanced roadside impaired driving enforcement and traffic incident management. At least one year of independent patrol or traffic experience is also required.

The following officers received their Traffic Safety Specialist II (TSS II) designation: Sgt. Nathan Kutz, Cpl. Harry Miller, PFC Clifford Goggins.

The TSS II designation builds upon the foundational level, requiring additional years of experience, participation in high-visibility enforcement campaigns, advanced training through programs such as Leading Effective Traffic Enforcement Programs (LETEP), and further specialization in areas such as impaired driving enforcement, crash reconstruction, and traffic safety instruction.

“These recognitions reflect the hard work and professionalism our officers bring to traffic safety every day,” said Ocean City Police Chief Ray Austin. “I am incredibly proud of their dedication and commitment to protecting our community. Traffic safety is a core priority for the Ocean City Police Department, and it’s rewarding to see our officers continue to grow within their careers and develop specialized skills that make our roads safer for everyone.”

Summer Body Protocol™ Open House

May 6 | 2-5pm | Berlin Location

This public event is designed to welcome new clients and showcase IAM’s customized Summer Body Protocols. Guests can enjoy live demonstrations, personalized consultations, event-only pricing, package deals, refreshments, and giveaways. Services highlighted include IV therapy, weight loss programs, body sculpting, and advanced skincare treatments.

Mother’s Day App Sale May

PHOTO COURTESY OCPD

Pictured, from left, are Ocean City Police officers PFC Michael Dzurnak, PFC Anthony Calabrese, Cpl. Harry Miller, Lt. Allen Hawk, Sgt. Nathan Kutz, PFC Clifford Goggins and PFC Timothy Chaykosky.

Meeting planned for cable landing project in West OC

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(May 1, 2026) Worcester County residents are expected to confront a controversial utility project head-on next month, as a public town hall is set to bring the developer face-to-face with a community already deeply skeptical of what’s being proposed.

The proposed facility on Route 611 outside Berlin has drawn sharp pushback from nearby residents and county officials. While developer Globalinx says it’s a pass-through station for internet cables, critics say it still looks and operates like an industrial site, with generators, fuel tanks, and round-the-clock activity.

District 3 Worcester County Commissioner Eric Fiori, whose West Ocean City district would house the facility, has made it clear he opposes the project outright. He has questioned the scale of the nearly 24,000square-foot facility and accuses Globalinx of failing to fully explain what’s being proposed.

Fiori pledged on social media to

push for a town hall meeting “so the entire community has the opportunity to be heard.”

“To date, the responses provided have been vague, incomplete, and lacking in factual detail,” he posted April 23 to Facebook. “Our community deserves transparency, accountability, and real answers – not uncertainty and deflection.”

Fiori is pitching a town hall-style meeting at Stephen Decatur High School in Berlin and says representatives of Globalinx have been invited to attend. The event is tentatively scheduled for May 14 at 6 p.m. and would be open to the public.

The project is also drawing opposition from a group of residents in nearby communities along Route 611.

In a letter to Worcester County officials, the Community Coalition of Impacted Property Owners rebuked the project, citing concerns over potential noise and light pollution, water consumption, and environmental impact.

BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

A town hall meeting will give residents a chance to discuss a company’s plans to develop a facility on a five-acre parcel of land located along Route 611, pictured above.

Nearby residents opposed to Rt. 611 facility

At the heart of the fight is a basic question: what exactly is this project?

The company has sought to reassure critics, many of whom are referring to the project as a “data center” – a term that’s become a lightning rod for controversy, as energy-hungry large-scale computing facilities expand nationwide.

Globalinx insists this is not a data center and even launched a projectspecific website to address the issue.

The company says the building would serve as a point where undersea fiber optic cables come ashore

and “connect into the wider internet infrastructure,” and it would not host data storage or large-scale server operations.

Last month, Globalinx CEO Greg Twitt told OC Today-Dispatch that from the outside, the facility would “look like a normal building,” like an office or warehouse. He said only five people would work there, that power demand would be low, and that the facility’s technology eventually could help lower pricing for internet access.

Commissioner Fiori disagrees and continues to refer to it as a data center.

“If you get run over by a vehicle,

New credit scoring model to improve mortgage process

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer

does it matter if it’s a car or a truck?” he said in an interview. “I don’t care if it processes data, I don’t care if it processes A.I., I don’t care if it washes cars. What matters is, it’s industrial use, it doesn’t meet the zoning code, and it doesn’t belong in our county, end of story. I don’t know how I can put it any more bluntly than that.”

In January, Worcester County’s Technical Review Committee reviewed the developer’s application for feasibility. But the project has not moved to the next level of vetting since then, in part because county staff say they have more questions that Globalinx needs to answer.

County Administrator Weston Young said, on the surface, the project “does seem like more of an industrial use” and the county needs to better understand how what’s being proposed would fit into its zoning requirements.

“Nobody cares about the fact that fiber running across the ocean is the size of a garden hose,” he said. “They care about, what are the potential impacts? You need to be able to explain that to the people.”

The county also plans to send its planning and development staff on site visits to other similar facilities on the East Coast “to better understand this type of project and its potential impacts,” according to an April 28 statement.

Worcester County isn’t the only local government intertwined with the proposal.

The Town of Ocean City in October entered into a 25-year lease with Globalinx to route cable through its nearby municipal airport, which is located just north of the project site on Route 611.

(May 1, 2026) Following an announcement in July of 2025 regarding a new credit score model called VantageScore 4.0 for mortgage underwriting, Housing and Urban Development Secretary Scott Turner and Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) Director William J. Pulte announced the Federal Housing Administration, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are implementing their first new credit score models for mortgages in decades. This change is intended to lower costs for homebuyers, and increase accessibility to mortgages for more Americans.

“By embracing additional predictive credit scoring models, we are taking a meaningful step toward expanding access to homeownership – particularly for creditworthy borrowers who may have been overlooked under older systems,” said Secretary Scott Turner.

The VantageScore 4.0 model was developed by the three major credit bureaus, Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. The new system analyzes changes in credit data over time and also includes additional data points— such as rental, utility and telephone payments. These data points have traditionally been excluded from a credit report.

“The Federal Housing Finance Agency’s announcement marks an important step forward in modernizing the mortgage marketplace and expanding access to homeownership,”

says NAR Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy Officer Shannon McGahn. “For years, the National Association of REALTORS® has advocated for a more competitive and accurate credit scoring system, one that better reflects how consumers manage their financial lives today.”

“Introducing competition into the credit scoring process has the potential to lower costs, improve efficiency and open the door to qualified borrowers who may have been overlooked under older models. By allowing the use of multiple credit scoring approaches, including those that incorporate rent, utility and other payment histories, this policy can help create a more complete and fair assessment of creditworthiness,” McGahn says.

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

He also said any project that doesn’t comport with zoning likely won’t get approved – and that locals may be reacting to an idea that might never come to fruition.

The fiber lines, originating in Ireland, will be owned and operated by Amazon Web Services and will support “Fastnet” undersea cables that move data between networks in Europe and the U.S., according to the Maryland Department of Commerce.

lieve that City Councils directly influence affordability in the broader economic sense, they can significantly contribute to enhancing affordability by collaborating with local business and our partners and explore various options. We want to create memorable experiences to encourage repeat visits, a challenging task already being effectively managed by the city’s tourism and marketing professionals.

3. Preserving historic Ocean City: It is understood that financial considerations ultimately determine the disposition of a structure. Nevertheless I am a staunch advocate for preservation and maintenance of these historical assets.

I recognize that city efforts are already underway in this domain, however given the anticipated financial pressures ahead, I propose a more proactive approach to ensure continued viability and profitability for these structures.

4. Financial concerns: I perceive OC to be in a perpetual cycle of generating additional revenue to cover ever escalating operational costs, public safety and infrastructure development and other expenses. I want to make sure that spending is judicious and appropriate.

Heiser: 1. Branding: Does OC want to be a safe, clean, family-oriented

Vote

beach town with special events that draw respectful visitors or a mecca for loud unruly events that trash the town and its reputation? I believe we need to keep the town livable for locals and bring back a focus on our best asset – the beach – not Coastal Highway. We must be selective about which events make sense for our town, make money for our businesses, and don’t overburden town employees.

2. Representation: Locals want to be seen and heard by their representatives. There are no special interests at play in my campaign – I don’t own a business or have any ulterior motives for being on the Council – I will truly be a voice for locals. I pledge to listen to their concerns and communicate while addressing them.

3. Development: Responsible growth requires building codes that are reasonable and consistently enforced without unnecessary red tape. We should be thoughtful to preserve the small town feel of our neighborhoods while expanding where it makes sense.

Murphy: 1. Inequitable Rental Standards: Our current Short-Term Rental (STR) occupancy rules create an 'unequal' landscape. For example, a 500-square-foot Boardwalk condo is restricted to three occupants (including children), while the same unit in an R1/MH zone allows four

OC Council 2026

Tony DeSanctis

Honesty, Integrity & Experience

For an Independent Voice on the CouncilListening to You!

BACKGROUND

Decades of experience with Fortune 500 companies in accounting, finance, marketing & management. Started & Sold 3 successful businesses. Retired as Allstate award-winning agent in 2021. 16+ years experience on HOA Boards. Currently serving as HOA Board President.

COMMUNITY SERVICE

4 decades with Special Needs Groups as volunteer & record-setting fundraiser United Way, the ARC & many others.

FULL-TIME NORTH OCEAN CITY RESIDENT

Transplanted from Catonsville area with wife Janet of 42 years & we care for our daughter with Down Syndrome. Member of OC Beach Heros, Beach Patrol volunteer & OC’s Sons of Italy Lodge #2474.

plus unlimited children. I will advocate for a uniform, family-friendly occupancy standard that doesn't penalize small business owners or visitors with young children.

2. Stabilizing Property Values & Inspections: Current inspection schedules create financial instability for owners and buyers. I propose moving rental inspections to the 'Time of Sale.' This ensures buyers have full transparency regarding legal usage and prevents sudden occupancy changes from devaluing properties or jeopardizing mortgages based on established rental histories.

3. Smart Beach Management vs. Over-Policing: I oppose the creation of "vague" enforcement roles that act as unlicensed police. Instead, I support a Lifeguard Support Team. These should be ambassadors— friendly and helpful—who handle non-safety issues like tent placements, allowing our lifeguards to focus solely on water safety. We should welcome beachgoers, not make them feel monitored.

Q. The Town of Ocean City is proposing to develop a sports complex in the area. As a council member, would you support the project? If so, where would you propose to build it? If you do not support the project, why not?

Adkins: I know why Ocean City

wants to build a sports complex. But the one thing that I do not know about is how much it’s gonna cost and who is gonna pay for it and will it put more people in the hotels and make Ocean City a more year-round resort that is question that I don’t know what I support it if it’s feasible and it’s profitable for the city to do it. Yes, I would support it.

Buas: I support the goal of expanding Ocean City’s tourism economy into sports tourism, as outlined in the Town’s Strategic Plan, as it presents an opportunity to bring more family visitors to our Town. Whether that results in a single sports complex is a separate issue.

The goal of tourism is to grow our economy in a way that offsets the cost of Town services and supports affordability for our residents and businesses. As a council member, I would only support a sports complex project if there is clear, credible evidence that it is economically viable and does not place a burden on our residents.

Location is also critical. Proximity to Town limits is essential to ensure the economic benefit remains in Ocean City. While there may be a preference for a single complex, the Town has not identified a suitable site since the inception of the Sports Complex Task Force in 2016. It may be time to broaden our approach by leveraging multiple sites to build a

We Are Stronger Together!

“sports community” that supports local businesses and keeps visitors in Town.

Any project of this scale must involve stakeholders and residents before moving forward.

DeSanctis: I would support a sports complex, which could be very beneficial to OC, provided it makes financial sense for OC and if Worcester County/Berlin residents support it. This has been a very contentious issue for OC and Worcester County. with lots of passionate discussion and debate – SO – if a sports complex is to be built and be successful it must work for all parties involved, and all parties will need to be working together. I do have a concern about increased traffic on Route 90 during peak season.

Heiser: I think the sports complex is a good idea because it would attract the right kind of family-friendly visitors and events to Ocean City which would help the town and businesses thrive without straining town resources. Giving our local kids access to such a facility also lays a foundation for them to grow into successful adults, physically and mentally and allows an outlet away from social media and technology. The questions about the project are valid however –who is footing the bill and who will manage the facility? Does a publicprivate partnership make financial

sense for the town? Do the surrounding municipalities support the intended location and does the project make sense for them? As a councilmember, these is important information I would need to review and discuss and I would certainly engage with all interested parties to determine what makes the most sense before establishing a strategic plan.

Murphy: I do not support the sports complex at this time. This proposal has been recycled for years without securing the necessary private funding or broad public mandate to make it viable. We cannot ask taxpayers to shoulder the risk of a 'build it and they might come' project. Before we ever consider a major sports center, we must first prioritize our transportation infrastructure and improve accessibility to the island to handle the resulting traffic. My focus is on fiscal responsibility and protecting the current taxpayer base.

Q. What was your position on the short-term rental restrictions that were put forward by the Ocean City Council in 2025 and early 2026?

Adkins: I live at 8802 Caribbean Dr. and there’s a house down from me that has had multiple parties and they are allowed. I don’t feel I have the right to tell people who they can rent their house to, but on occasions that where houses are rented and had

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big parties in private neighborhoods? It’s mostly people who live here for year-round that’s the problem, but I think the problem can be solved. If the people who rent the houses are fined or eliminated from having these parties and disturbing the people who live in Ocean City.

Buas: My responsibility as a council member is to focus on the issues facing Ocean City today and to prepare for those we will face in the years ahead, not to revisit matters that have already been decided.

That said, I would not support efforts to revisit short-term rental restrictions. The issue was ultimately decided by the voters after significant community engagement and voter turnout, and that outcome should be respected.

Moving forward, the focus should be on consistent enforcement of existing rules and regulations to address problem properties, rather than broad restrictions that impact all property owners.

The goal is to make Ocean City a more livable community for residents. It is time to find new ways to advance that goal without restricting the ability of property owners to responsibly use their property.

We must maintain a balanced approach that protects property rights while also preserving the quality of life for our residents.

DeSanctis: Property owners have rights. This is a resort town. The short-term rental resolution was never about how I felt, but rather what the community thought. To make the best decision, I went to the meetings, carefully listened to the pro’s and con’s, studied the statistics presented, used my own personal observation, and came to the conclusion that the rental problem was not as severe as initially presented and that the legislation that passed was too far reaching. I also believe that great economic harm would have been caused to local business, less revenue generated for the city and this legislation would have lowered real estate values. This legislation was rejected by the residents. In the end, I agreed with Council President James that the “existing legislation is sufficient” to address the issues.

My campaign theme is listening and leadership. A strong case could be made that the Council wasn’t listening to residents. Once this legislation was rejected by voters, the Council should have removed the rental license moratorium immediately.

Heiser: Although I truly feel for both sides of this issue, I believe in property rights and I don’t believe in government overreach. The people have spoken and the majority wanted

Continued on Page 84

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to keep short term rentals. We should continue to enforce the laws that are already in place to control disrespectful and irresponsible shortterm rental participants. Neighborhoods that wanted restrictions on short term rentals are free to identify alternative solutions such as amending HOA rules and regulations or establishing other legally binding agreements to reach their goals without necessitating government involvement in the process.

Murphy: I am firmly against these restrictions. They overreach the stated mission of the Division of Rental Housing, which is to ensure 'safe, well-managed, and sanitary' housing. The 2025–2026 measures move beyond safety and into micromanaging property rights. I believe in management that solves actual nui-

sances without infringing on the economic viability of property ownership.

Q. As the need for workers increases, the big question is where they are going to live. Do you have any thoughts on what may be a possible solution for employee housing? Do you think that the government, at any level, has a role in this?

Adkins: The one thing that Ocean City does need is a place for workers to live during the summer when they work. I do think that Ocean City needs to take a part in developing some type of living quarters for people who work here during the summer and I don’t know how that can be but we need some type of dorm living that’s priced reasonable for what the people who make during the summer and some of these prices to me is just

NOTICE OF ELECTION OCEAN CITY SPECIAL ELECTION

MAY 8, 2026

The Town of Ocean City special election is Friday, May 8, 2026, from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. in Dockside Exhibit Hall of the Roland E. Powell Convention Center. Two (2) City Council seats are open. There are five (5) candidates: John Franklin Adkins, Peter Buas, Tony DeSanctis, Jeff Heiser and William (Bill) Murphy. A sample ballot is below. Vote for no more than two (2) candidates. For those who prefer to vote by mail:

Absentee Ballot Applications must be received by 4:30 p.m. on May 7, 2026. To obtain an application, visit www.oceancitymd.gov or visit City Hall to complete an application and fill out a ballot onsite. Applications can be dropped off at City Hall or mailed to the Board of Supervisors of Elections of Ocean City, c/o the Office of the City Clerk, 301 N. Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland, 21842.

The Town is offering free bus service for all users on Special Election Day. The "no-fare" policy for buses and ADA service will be in effect from 6:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. The Coastal Highway "Beach Bus" will run every 30 minutes. ADA service is available to qualified individuals during the same days and hours that the "Beach Bus" service is in operation, but 24-hour advanced trip reservations are required. For additional information, contact Transportation at 410-723-1606.

For more information about the municipal special election or absentee (mail-in) ballots, please contact the Office of the City Clerk at 410-289-8824 or visit www.oceancitymd.gov.

outrageous for a teenager or young person to be able to pay that kind of money to live in a place where they’re gonna work, but I don’t have an answer for this. It’s just an idea that something needs to be done.

Buas: Workforce housing is a difficult challenge with no single solution. As a resort community, we are competing with a strong seasonal market, which makes affordability a constant issue.

Government does have a role, but it should be limited. I support providing housing options for seasonal town employees to ensure we remain fully staffed during the summer season. The downtown police substation is an excellent example, combining public safety infrastructure with housing for seasonal staff. That type of practical approach should continue.

The town has also taken steps to encourage year-round residency among its workforce, including residency incentives for public safety employees. I have supported and would continue to support expanding similar incentives to other departments to encourage more full-time staff to live in Town.

As it relates to our local businesses’ needs, the Town has implemented zoning incentives for large-scale projects, but those tools have seen limited use. We must create more practical, smaller-scale opportunities so property owners and businesses have a realistic path to provide workforce housing.

DeSanctis: Similar to the affordability concerns, I believe that government is limited in its ability to affect housing affordability. I think that government can assist the private sector in developing more affordable housing for seasonal workers by helping builders/contractors get projects approved, by providing low interest loan money, possibly provide financial guarantees and other incentives to try and build. Limited land availability and raw land costs make affordable housing opportunities even more difficult to achieve in OC. Renovation of existing structures (Phillips) shows promise and perhaps West OC can provide more affordable housing options. I would like to look into the feasibility of retaining, maintaining and converting these structures into more affordable housing.

Heiser: The town should do everything it can to support affordable housing by eliminating barriers and restrictions, providing simple and clean rules for builders and homeowners, and consistently enforcing necessary regulations. I view the town’s job as to make it as easy as possible for individuals and businesses to operate – we should do what we can to set them up for success, but actually achieving success is up to them. We need to establish a fair playing field and a consistent approach to encourage builders to build and I am open to offering additional incentives to support that growth.

Murphy: Housing costs have been driven up by the rise of remote work and corporate investment firms. While I do not support governmentsubsidized housing—which often leads to the market inefficiencies we see in cities like New York—I do believe the government can play a role in regulation and infrastructure.

We should explore limiting large corporate ownership of single-family homes to keep them available for residents. More importantly, we must expand and optimize public transportation. By making the transit link between the island and the mainland reliable and affordable, we allow our workforce to live in more affordable areas nearby while ensuring they can get to work efficiently without needing a car.

The OC Today-Dispatch also asked each candidate to respond to one follow-up question. These are their answers.

Q to Adkins: You have been open about the fact that you spend the winter months in Florida each year. If elected, would that change?

A: The past 17 years I have gone to Florida at the end of October and come back at the end of March. I have a fifth wheel that I leave in Florida. I have a 2008 GMC Dooley with a diesel engine that has 80,000 miles on it. I do not tow the trailer anymore. I did it one time. Now it’s just cheaper to leave it in Florida. If by chance I’m elected by the people of Ocean City I will not go to Florida anymore during the winter. I will try to make every single meeting of the council if I’m elected. The one thing that I will not give up since my daughter and her husband and grandchildren live in Oregon and for

a lot of years I’ve flown to Portland, Oregon to spend Christmas with my daughter and grandchildren and her husband that is something that I will continue to do if at all possible because I can fly out of Salisbury. When I worked for Delmarva Power as alignment, I have worked in windchills that were 80 below zero in a bucket truck. When I retired I made up my mind that I was going where it was warm and so far I’ve been able to do it. That may change if the people of Ocean City elect me to the city council.

Q to Buas: If elected to the council, do you plan to fulfill the remainder of the term? Or do you plan to run in the mayoral race this fall?

A: If elected, I will serve the remainder of the term. My focus is on stepping back into the City Council role and contributing where I can add the most value to Ocean City right now.

I have always approached public service by asking where I can be most effective, and at this moment, I believe that is on the City Council. My priority is to serve in this role and help the Town address the challenges ahead in a thoughtful and responsible way.

I am grateful for the support I received in the 2024 mayoral election, and I continue to believe there is a

need for strong leadership, clear communication, a renewed commitment to collaboration, and a focus on long-range planning in our Town government. From the Council, I will work to advance those priorities and help move Ocean City forward in a way that benefits our residents, businesses, and community as a whole.

Q to DeSanctis: You mentioned financial concerns as a top issue facing Ocean City. Do you feel that Ocean City is allocating taxpayer dollars appropriately? Why or why not?

A: As a candidate for the OC Council and an OC resident I want to make sure that our town is fiscally sound, running a balanced budget and spending prudently.

The OC FY 2027 budget is $199 million, which is an increase over FY 2026 ($181 M) and FY 2025 ($165 M). Maintaining public safety, transitioning our workforce to year round employees, along with retaining and compensating our existing and outstanding city employees has become more expensive. Marketing and tourism are drivers of our economy and need to be funded. Ocean City has a balanced budget, we have strong financial reserves, a strong financial rating, low debt and sustained revenue growth. So, yes Ocean City is allocating funds properly. Now, there will always be passionate

discussion and debate on how much to spend, where to spend it but candidates cannot really provide specifics to voters on “cuts” or “spend more here” without being involved with the professionals who bring each individual line item together to get to that large “summary total.”

Q to Heiser: The Ocean City Council prioritizes public safety, and in recent years has invested more money in both equipment and manpower for the Ocean City Police Department. However, the department continues to have problems filling its year-round officer positions. How would you, as a councilman, propose to work with the department to address this ongoing issue?

A: OCPD has previously had difficulty filling officer positions but this is a nationwide problem. Fewer people want to become police officers due to the increased stress, public scrutiny and negative media attention.

The Town and OCPD have successfully worked together to increase pay, offer take-home vehicles and improve technology so that OC is considered a desirable place to work among law enforcement. Some of our best new recruits are officers joining OCPD from other departments, and the community support for police

throughout Worcester County is topnotch.

As a councilman, I would continue the open dialogue with the OCPD to ensure we are supporting them in retaining the great police force that we have. Technology also plays a huge role in enhancing current manpower as a force multiplier – and advances in efficiency mean we won’t continually need to add manpower as long as we have the best tools. I support providing those tech tools and the best training to law enforcement - this is a true investment in our community’s safety.

Q to Murphy: As a bus driver, you have first-hand knowledge of how the municipal bus system works. What are your thoughts on the State Highway Administration’s proposed plan to convert a portion of the city’s bus lane into a dedicated bike path?

A: I appreciate the SHA’s decision to accept the Town’s recommendations and suspend the current project. The initial plan underestimated the critical role that specific lane plays in managing our multi-modal traffic, including municipal & charter buses, emergency vehicles, turning & broke down vehicles and commercial deliveries. Preserving this lane ensures we maintain efficient Beach Bus service and prioritize the safety of both motorists and pedestrians.

Opinions

Common sense: Buas and Heiser

The City Council election in Ocean City next Friday is doubly special. Not only is this a contest for two seats on the seven-member City Council, but it also will be followed by the regular November municipal election when the mayor and three more members of the council will be elected.

This means Ocean City voters could change the overall complexion of resort government by electing a mayor and five of the council’s seven members in one year.

With the resignation of veteran Councilman Tony DeLuca in February and the decision by Council President Matt James to step down from the council after 12 years to run for mayor, this body could be short on experience going into the new year.

Only council members John Gehrig, who is now in his 10th year of service, and Jake Mitrecic, who was elected in 2024, aren’t up for reelection this year and are guaranteed (more or less) to be on the dais in the year ahead.

This dearth of experience on the council makes next Friday’s election more critical than usual, and why we recommend the election of candidates Jeff Heiser and Peter Buas. Nothing against their competitors, since any one of them could be merged into a group of experienced members to lead the way. But that’s not the case this year.

Although all candidates agree that Public Safety is local government’s priority, Heiser understands Ocean City’s public safety requirements better than anyone. He retired as a lieutenant after 25 years with the resort police department, giving him unmatched experience in that area.

Attorney Peter Buas, meanwhile, already has four years of experience as a member of the City Council. Instead of running for reelection in 2024, he gave up his seat to run for mayor ... and almost made it.

The election of Heiser and Buas is just common sense. It is an insurance policy that promises a certain level of experience in government no matter what happens in November.

Socks and sandals?

Ah, spring, the time of year when people start breaking out their leisure wear in preparation for another six months or so of looking relaxed or ridiculous, depending on their genetic disposition, life experiences and expectations.

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By Stewart Dobson

Women, generally speaking, know exactly what do in terms of changing out their wardrobes, while many men are wandering in the wilderness of men’s wear hoping not to look as stupid as they feel in their spring/summer nonwork outfits.

Professional men, in particular, have a problem with this, since their genetic code doesn’t allow them to achieve that warm weather, relaxed look that others of us enjoy without trying.

For us, it’s a T-shirt and shorts, while they spend real time trying to get just the right ensemble together and it still ends up being as mismatched as a top hat on a dog.

We all employ different looks to reflect our mood and surroundings, and for me that means three things: “Uncomfortably Dressed Up” for upscale social or formal events; “Exceptionally Casual” for work and some social events; and “Will Work for Food,” a look I adopt more than I realize, or so they tell me. Some gentlemen, however, can’t do that. Their looks are: “Formally Formal,” which is when the cost of their ties alone would feed a family of four for a week; “Business Formal,” so they can go to work without being ques-

tioned about what they actually do; and “Wingtip Flipflops Awkward.”

There is no such thing as wingtip flipflops, of course, but if there were, these guys would buy and wear them. Again, it’s in their genetic code, which compels them to eschew comfort in favor of looking uncomfortable but in charge, harrumph harumph.

We all have seen at least one of these individuals — nicely ironed short-sleeve shirt, shorts hoisted a little above the waist (we used to call it “The Creep Level) and black socks and dress shoes, or worse, socks AND sandals.

What’s with that anyway? I’m not sure what the wearer is trying to achieve, but I think it’s like wearing long underwear under a Speedo — it kind of defeats the purpose.

Some people, of course, just aren’t cut out to go all casual no matter what time of year it might be. Many members of Congress, for instance, can’t pull it off because they don’t want to admit they’re no different than the rest of us, so they need to look “respectable” at all times.

This is with the exception of Sen. John Fetterman who has established his signature (I Just Robbed A 7-Eleven) style.

I must confess, though, I used to have trouble myself wearing appropriate spring and summer attire, because I didn’t — wouldn’t — wear shorts in public.

It was a matter of public safety, really, since I didn’t want to create panic in the streets as people shouted, “Look! Look at those skinny white legs! Run, everyone! It might be contagious!”

PUBLIC EYE

Between the Lines

By Steve Green

About 20 pedicabs will be on the Boardwalk this summer after the city selected a New Jersey-based vendor to carry out the new franchise. At least two of the pedicabs will be able to accommodate wheelchairs, walkers and strollers, according to the news article this week. Atlantic Pedicabs, the chosen vendor, currently operates at the Jersey beaches and Brooklyn.

The new service, utilized through an app, is intended to replace the tram as a means of transportation. It’s highly unlikely to accomplish the goal of replacing the convenience of the tram or the nominal cost, but it’s a reasonable alternative to explore for folks. It does answer the call for something to be done on the boards in response to the tram being canceled. The OCDC last December made it clear the tram is missed on the Boardwalk, saying in a letter, “We are asking the mayor and council to strongly consider alternatives to bring back some kind of service similar to the Boardwalk Tram. We have the infrastructure already built to bring back a smaller, safer, purpose-built tram. We will also continue to have the need for the tram, which include individuals with disabilities, elderly patrons and families; not to mention visitors who simply have nostalgic memories of riding the tram.”

The city will receive $25,000 in the first year as part of the new franchise fee, followed by $50,000 each year after for four years, assuming the service is profitable As far as the fees, the cost will range from $10 for about eight blocks (half mile) to $30 for the full 2.2-mile ride. For comparison, prior to its suspension, the tram cost was $5 per one-way ride. ***

It’s shaping up to be quite the election year in Ocean City. It was confirmed this week Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan will run again, meaning a matchup with Councilman Matt James, who announced last week he would not seek another council term and vie for mayor. In an interview this week, former Councilman Peter Buas made it clear he is focused on returning to the council and will not take another run at Meehan in the fall.

On the council side, the winds of change are indeed blowing. Two new council members will be elected in next Friday’s election, and the three council seats belonging to Matt James, Carol Proctor and Will Savage are up for re-election. It’s clear James will not run, and it’s unknown at this time if Proctor and Savage will seek another term. It’s going to be a fascinating fall.

***

It will be interesting to see in the future if Worcester County considers changing its recycling and waste operation.

During budget meetings last month, Worcester County Public Works Director Dallas Baker told the commissioners recycling will be facing an approximate $1 million shortfall, which is expected to be covered through general fund revenues. Baker said recycling is estimated to bring in $150,000 in revenue in the next fiscal year against a cost of $1.2 million. Revenue is trending down, declining by $10,000 last year and $80,000 in 2024. It could be time for changes in the county’s approach, which would be complicated though.

Back in 2009, Ocean City yanked its curbside recycling program over economics in favor of sending all its waste to energy incinerators outside the area rather than to the landfill. It was reported the city’s recycling program lost $1 million a year in its last year of operation. The move was controversial at the time and even led to a boycott Ocean City website being created. In the years since, the program seems to be working just fine despite angst from conservationists.

***

Sincere condolences to those hit hard last weekend by the sudden passing of Ward Kovacs, who has been the year-round face of the Ocean City Beach Patrol for decades. I encourage everyone to read the memoriam in the paper this week because it’s moving and reflects his impact. Two quotes that stood out to me came from fellow colleague Lt. Skip Lee and local resident Brad Hoffman.

Lee said, “There’s so much more to Beach Patrol than sitting on the stand and jumping in the water. Ward was just connected to that. Ward gave of himself in any way. I don’t know anyone else like him. … He was literally loved by thousands of people, helped thousands of people become mature adults, and led many people to Christ.” Hoffman said, “I believe we are all better people because Ward was in our lives. … When this type of loss happens suddenly to our community, it’s a void that will never be filled. But in time, people can take what Ward showed them and embody some of that strength, wisdom and steadfast commitment to the town and its safety.”

Don’t be distracted by school system rhetoric

Editor,

I am usually a forward-thinking and moving on type of person. I don’t believe in giving too much time and energy to people or situations that are destructive by nature and are driven by untruths, hatefulness, and maliciousness. It gets us nowhere.

However, I am going to take a minute to address the Public Comments at the April Worcester County Board of Education meeting where people spoke and their rhetoric had nothing to do with what is best for our schools. Don’t be fooled, it was meant as a means to send out a negative political message directed really at only one person. Such politicking does not belong in our educational meetings.

Some of the people who spoke don’t even have their children attend our WCPS schools. These speakers didn’t enter the meeting to hear the Superintendent address the inappropriate use of school funds by a school official and measures being taken in response. Or all the wonderful staff and student recognitions! They only entered when it was time for public comments.

I say again, do not be distracted from what is important to our school system: Highly Qualified Teachers who do not deserve to be the lowest paid in the state; maintaining small class sizes that contribute to our current 4 and 5 star rating; and safety, achieved through funding of School Resource Officers and the most current and innovative practices.

Soon, the school budget request will be considered by Worcester County Commissioners. Rhetoric like that heard in the school board meeting will likely be used to convince the Commissioners that the budget should be funded at the minimum level. But our school system cannot survive on “Maintenance of Effort.” Teacher salaries MUST meet the State minimum requirement this year, and the current beginning teacher salary is 10 percent below that minimum. Costs consistently rise each year to cover basic operations and health care, due to inflation. So what was adequate last year, is not adequate today. We must not be distracted from what is important the future of Worcester County Public Schools: the children they serve.

Kathy Cater Bishopville

WORCESTER PREP HONOR SOCIETY INDUCTIONS

As part of the Worcester Preparatory School's April Honor Society Inductions, 12 students were inducted to the WPS chapter of the International Thespian Society, and 23 students were inducted to the National Art Honor Society on April 10. The International Thespian Society is the Educational Theatre Association’s student honorary organization to recognize high school students' achievements in theatre. Pictured below left, are the International Thespian Society WPS inductees. Pictured, bottom, front row from left, are students Emma Nordstrom, Isha Garg, Lara Owens, Gabriella Damouni, Kayley Adkins and Meredith Walston; second row, Upper School Dance/Drama Director Paulette DeRosa-Matrona and Middle/Upper School Music Director Christopher Buzby; and, back, Darren Lockard, Ayath Islam, Jack Wells, Beckett Green and Tyler Netting. Not pictured was Sydney Parker. The National Art Honor Society recognizes students who have shown outstanding ability in art, character, and service. Pictured above left are the National Art Honor Society WPS inductees. Pictured, top, front from left, are Middle and Upper School Art Teacher George Zaiser, students Cora McClanahan, Sydney Todorov, Lena Parker, Keerat Pandher, Kobe Bouzaglo, Jamie Nguyen, Paxton Mault and Middle and Upper School Technology teacher Michael O’Malley.

Second row, from left, are students Ayath Islam, Renata Lovitt, Kayley Adkins, Lara Owens, Meredith Walston, Luke Pitarra and Justin McGovern. Back, from left, are students Beau Brittingham, Tyler Netting, Jake Campbell, Chase Ginnavan, Michael Hall, Max Lev, Chase Burbage and Jeremy Forman. Not pictured was Olivia Soares.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Circuit Court eyes $6K stipend for intern positions

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(May 1, 2026) Worcester County’s top judge wants to build a stronger pipeline for hiring future law clerks by paying summer interns.

Judge Brian Shockley, who oversees circuit court administration in Snow Hill, is asking county officials to fund a $6,000 stipend for a summer intern position for his fiscal year 2027 budget.

Legal internships often serve as a feeder system for law clerks, a role Shockley called “indispensable” to the court.

“What we're hoping is, if we can get a good intern between their second and third year of law school, indoctrinate them into the court, make them want to come as a law clerk the next year, that may help with this problem,” he told the county commissioners during an April 14 budget work session.

Legal intern positions have become increasingly harder to fill on the lower Eastern Shore. Shockley described recruiting as “a very pronounced problem” for a myriad of reasons.

“We've lost some interns to even Wicomico County and some neighboring counties because they're paying their interns,” he said.

Law clerks help keep cases moving by handling much of the research and drafting that supports a judge’s decisions. Without enough clerks, much of that work falls back on judges and other staff, which can affect how quickly cases move through the system.

The circuit court has three law clerks, one for each judge, and they work two years for the court. Shockley said it’s not uncommon for a former clerk to start their career as an attorney in the county.

Shockley pointed to a recent example: Judge Kristina Watkowski, appointed to the circuit bench last fall, began her career as a Worcester County law clerk under former judges Tom Groton and Ted Eschenburg.

Hiring works differently at the District Court level, where law clerks are not tied to individual judges. Instead, they are hired by administrative judges and shared across multiple courtrooms, according to the Maryland Judiciary.

Alongside the staffing request, Shockley also outlined several planned upgrades to the historic Snow Hill courthouse.

Those include creating a new law library, converting a former grand jury room into offices for family services and truancy court staff, and adding a vestibule at the Washington Street entrance to improve security.

The commissioners took no immediate action on the request during the work session. The court’s proposal will be weighed alongside other departmental requests as the county moves toward a final budget adoption on June 2.

OBITUARIES

WILLIAM T. DORMAN, JR.

Berlin

William Thomas (Tom) Dorman Jr., age 89, passed away April 20, 2026, in Berlin, Maryland. Born September 15, 1936, he was the son of the late William T. Dorman Sr. and Elva Mae (Owens) Dorman of Quantico.

As a child, Tom hunted and fished with his father and grandfather, learning to love the Eastern Shore way of life. He pitched for the WiHi baseball team and later at Salisbury State Teachers College where he met Nancy and many of his lifelong friends. Tom worked at Acme while attending high school and for summers afterwards while teaching. Tom was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and

friend. He was a lifetime member of the Berlin Lions Club.

Tom loved boating, duck hunting and fishing with friends. He especially loved Ward Brothers decoys, and art featuring the Eastern Shore. Tom also loved seafood. He loved oyster fritters at St. Philip’s Church in Quantico, raw oysters, soft crab sandwiches, steamed crabs, and a cold beer with friends. Tom and Nancy were married for almost 68 years. Together they enjoyed traveling and spending time with family and friends. Tom’s favorite trips were to Africa and New Zealand.

Tom was a proud employee of Worcester County Public Schools for 37 years, advancing from science teacher at Pocomoke High School, Vice Principal at Snow Hill High School, Principal at Berlin Middle School, to Assistant Superintendent

Continued on Page 90

The Pretend Gardening Column

by Stephanie Graves, Owner, String and Petals Nursery

When investing your marketing dollars as a small business owner, there are countless choices to make. Over the past year, I’ve spent countless hours designing ads while nurturing our little plant nursery, always wishing there were more opportunities to share something truly meaningful with you. As the saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words, but sometimes even beautiful images aren’t enough to ignite that spark of inspiration.

Recently, I connected with a wonderful group of fellow small business owners who generously shared their wisdom. Among their many ideas, one suggestion stood out: why not use this paid space to write something heartfelt— something that could inspire and uplift? Though I have no formal training as a writer, let alone a columnist, I believe that genuine passion and a willingness to try something new can plant the seeds of greatness.

That’s why I’m redefining this space—not simply as an ad, but as a monthly source of inspiration, guidance, and encouragement. I want to help you nurture your garden and your spirit, and to remind you that beauty and possibility can be found in every handful of soil and with every new beginning.

I’m not sure yet whether this will take the form of a Q&A, a monthly list of gardening chores, or simply a story from my gardening journey, but my goal is to create a space that helps your love for gardening thrive. May this be where we both find the courage to grow and the joy of nurturing something beautiful— together. I hope you find this space useful and look forward to reading what is shared here during the first week of the month, no matter where you shop. If my words inspire you to visit my little nursery, know that you are always welcome.

Happy planting!

~Stephanie

W. Dorman, Jr.

OBITUARIES

Continued from Page 89

of Schools. Tom was inducted into the Worcester County Public Schools Hall of Fame in September 2025. His professionalism, wisdom, and unwavering commitment left an indelible mark on Worcester County Public Schools and continues to serve as a model for future educators and leaders. After retirement, he continued to support public education by establishing the Dorman Family Teachers Scholarship Fund to encourage students to become teachers.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy Horsman Dorman; his children, Ellen Masters (Andrew) and Amy Cox (Christopher); his niece, Susan Jordan (John); and his grandchildren, Nicholas Masters and Elizabeth Finecey (Lukas).

foods. He found joy in the outdoors, especially on long hikes, and loved spending time on the water kayaking, boating, and fishing.

He had a deep love for animals, especially his loyal cat, Sammy, who rarely left his side, and his dog, Summer.

Kyle was endlessly curious and enjoyed experimenting with new gadgets, tinkering with drones, and operating HAM radios. Above all, he treasured time spent with his wife, family, and friends, creating memories that will be cherished forever.

Kyle was known for his thoughtful approach to problem-solving, his boundless kindness, and his easygoing nature. He was a steady source of comfort and strength to those who knew him, and his absence will be deeply felt.

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A viewing will be held at The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin on Friday, May 8, 2026, from 10 to 11: a.m. A funeral service will follow, beginning at 11 a.m. Friends and family are invited to join us at The Atlantic Hotel after the service for a luncheon in memory of Tom.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the "Dorman Family Teachers Scholarship Fund" at https://bit.ly/DormanScholarship or mailed to Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore, 1324 Belmont Ave. Ste. 401, Salisbury, MD 21804.

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

KYLE RICHARD HITCH

Rockville

Kyle Hitch, a cherished husband, son, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away suddenly on February 27, 2026, in Rockville, Maryland, at the age of 42.

Kyle was the devoted husband of Liz Hitch; the beloved son of Art and Karen Hitch; the caring brother of Ryan Hitch; and a supportive brother-in-law to Jen Knies. His nieces, Evelyn and Charlotte, will always remember their uncle’s gentle kindness and the joy he brought to their lives.

Kyle attended Salisbury University, where he majored in geographic information systems (GIS), a field that perfectly suited his analytical mind and passion for technology. After graduating, he began his career with the Federal Aviation Administration in 2007, earning the respect of colleagues for his expertise, dedication, and steady presence.

Kyle and Liz shared a love of travel that took them around the world— from Peru to Iceland and many places in between. He was adventurous and curious, always eager to explore new destinations and try new

As we say goodbye, we celebrate a life lived with purpose, curiosity, and love. Kyle’s gentle spirit and enduring kindness will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.

A Celebration of Life will be held at: Mickey Finns - 12952 Inlet Isle Lane, Ocean City MD, 21842 on Saturday, May 30 from 1 to 3 p.m. Memorial contributions can be made at the Chesapeake Bay Foundation

ANTOINETTE BRIGIDINI VITO

Ocean

City

Antoinette Brigidini Vito (March 8, 1940 – April 9, 2026) passed away peacefully at the age of 86.

Antoinette was raised in Washington, D.C., where she met and married her lifetime husband, Paul Vito Sr. They raised their family in Maryland and later retired in Ocean City.

She always had a beautiful home and loved to redecorate. She was very fashionable and had a sharp sense of humor, often bringing laughter to those around her.

She is survived by her husband, Paul Vito Sr.; daughter, Stephanie; sons, Anthony James and Paul Michael Jr.; and six grandchildren. She shared a special relationship with her grandchildren, Amanda and Brett Boone.

A private service will be held by the family.

MELVIN PAUL SEGAL

Wadesboro, N.C.

Melvin Paul Segal, born June 7, 1946, in Wadesboro, North Carolina and lived a full, vibrant, and memorable life, passed away peacefully at home on April 12, 2026, as he wished.

Mel was one of five siblings born to Albert G. Segal of Salisbury, Maryland

Kyle R. Hitch

Melvin P. Segal

Antoinette Vito

OBITUARIES

and Dorothy Levine Segal of Rockingham, of blessed memory. He grew up in Charlotte, where he built a life rooted in family, friendships, and the things he loved most.

He is survived by the love of his life, Tammy L. Marshall, and her son, Derek C. Keegan and his partner, Hayley A. Brucato. He is also survived by his siblings: Roslyn Segal of Fort Myers; Stuart Segal of Charlotte; Howard Segal (Sue) of Moorpark; and Jerry Segal (Linda) of Morganton.

Mel leaves behind many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, and cousins from the Segal and Levine families. Among them, his nephew David shared a particularly special bond with him—one rooted in unwavering love and devotion.

Mel graduated from Myers Park High School and attended Riverside Preparatory Academy. He proudly served his country in the US Army during the Vietnam War and fondly remembered his time at the officers’ club.

He later worked alongside his father in the family business, Pic ’N Pay Shoes, contributing to its real estate operations. After retiring at 35, Mel dedicated his time to managing his investments and pursuing the passions that brought him joy.

One of Mel’s greatest passions was harness horse racing, a love passed down from his father. Over the years, he owned many horses, but the pinnacle of this journey came in 2021 when his extraordinary filly, Test of Faith, was named American Harness Horse of the Year, 3-Year-Old Horse of the Year, and Filly of the Year. She was truly one in a million and brought him immense pride and happiness.

It was through this passion, and an introduction by his sister, that he met Tammy at a racetrack in New Jersey while Earth Wind Fire, another of Mel’s champion fillies, was racing.

In his later years, Mel found in Tammy a deep and meaningful connection. Their time together, though too short, was filled with love and companionship. She was the twinkle in his eye—his partner, his friend, and ultimately, his devoted caregiver.

Mel delighted in life’s pleasures— his love of fast cars, often seen behind the wheel of a new Mercedes-Benz or Ferrari; with a vanilla DQ cone in hand. His life included the unmistakable sound of a winning slot machine; and the simple satisfaction of good Carolina barbecue shared with those he loved. He also loved the beach, long walks with Tammy, and chatting together over the latest news and family happenings—moments that brought him true contentment. He was proud to be “of the givers” and would want everyone he knew to follow in his footsteps.

He was philanthropic toward causes close to his heart, including the Jewish Federation of Greater

Charlotte, Temple Israel, and other charitable organizations.

Melvin’s funeral was held on April 14, 2026, at the Hebrew Cemetery in Charlotte, where he is laid to rest near his parents.

Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice, the Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte, or Via Health Partners (Hospice).

ELLEN F. LURZ

Berlin

Ellen F. Lurz (Cramer) passed away peacefully at home early Friday morning April 24, 2026 surrounded by her family.

Ellen was born in Baltimore, Jan. 14, 1952 to Russell Cramer and Sarah Marian Lindell. She is survived by her loving husband Raymond Lurz, son Paul Lurz, daughter-in-Law Michelle Lurz, granddaughters Darian and Hailey Lurz, and sister Barbara Watkins. Ellen enjoyed painting and scrapbooking her photos of her family and friends. She was a Registration Specialist for 12 yrs at Atlantic General Hospital and also a caretaker for several years.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

WALTER ODELL REVIS, SR., Ocean City

Walter Odell Revis, Sr., born on August 30, 1934, in Baltimore, was a cherished son of the late Florence Mae Scarboro Revis and Otis Odell Revis. A devoted resident of Ocean City since 1994, Walter had previously spent 29 years in Glen Burnie, where he built a life marked by service, dedication, and a love for nature.

For 31 years, Walter pursued a distinguished career as an electronics technician at Westinghouse, now Northrop Grumman, in Linthicum. His commitment to community was deeply evident during his years in Glen Burnie, where he was an active member of St. John’s Lutheran Church and Peace Lutheran Church, now known as Rejoice Fellowship. He also selflessly served as a firefighter and EMT with the Ferndale Volunteer Fire Department.

Upon relocating to Ocean City, Walter continued his community involvement by serving with the block watch at Montego Bay.

Walter’s passions extended beyond his professional and community endeavors. He was an avid enthusiast of duck hunting, fishing, boating, camping, and travel, delighting in the simple pleasure of watching the water

glisten from his home. His love for the outdoors and his family created a life rich in meaningful experiences. He was predeceased by his brothers, Raymond Lee Revis and Ralph Theodore Revis. Walter leaves behind his beloved wife, Joan Ann Shelepet Revis of Ocean City; his son, Walter O. Revis, Jr., and his partner, Joan Forrester of Glen Burnie; his daughter, Beverly Elizabeth Wells, and her partner, Ralph White of Lewes, DE; grandsons David Wells and his wife Kaitlyn, and Brian Wells; as well as greatgrandchildren Elijah and Paxton Wells. He passed away peacefully on April 24, 2026, at the Macky and Pam Stansell House Coastal Hospice. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all whose lives he touched, a testament to a life well lived and a legacy of kindness, service, and love.

DIANNA M. MITCHELL TAYLOR

Selbyville

Dianna M. Mitchell Taylor, 79, died Wednesday, April 22, 2026.

A viewing will be held Wednesday, May 6, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Lewis N. Watson Funeral Home, P.A., Salisbury.

Please visit www.lewisnwatsonfuneralhome.com to offer condolences to the family.

Ellen F. Lurz

Walter Revis, Sr.

Dianna M. Taylor

Sports & Recreation

Prep downs Caesar Rodney to extend streak

By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer

(May 1, 2026) Worcester Prep won its eighth straight on Tuesday, defeating Caesar Rodney, 16-12.

The Mallards, now 9-1 on the season after Wednesday’s win over North Dorchester, were able to pull away from Caesar Rodney, the No. 5 ranked team in Delaware, in the second half behind Junior Danny Kirwan, who had four goals and five assists from the midfield position.

Stepping up huge in the shorthanded midfield was senior Paxton

Mault, who was dominate at faceoff and giving Prep key possessions. With fellow senior Max Carpenter sidelined by illness, Mault stepped up at the offensive end with four goals and four assists.

Freshman Brax Giardina paced the attack with five goals while freshman John Parker had two goals and two assists. Junior goalie Colton Grevey had 18 saves between the pipes.

Last week, on senior night at Worcester Prep, the Mallards won 156 over Delmar after leading 7-2 at half.

The third quarter was some outstanding lacrosse play by both teams. Worcester Prep scored two minutes in and then the balls started flying. With 7:33 on the clock the Fighting Mallards scored, 24 seconds later they score again and again eight seconds later. The Mallards were up 112 after that string of goals.

The game ended 15-6 with Prep ahead, and Coach Drew Haugh said the game was put away in the third.

“Well, it was the best thing in the third quarter because that team (Delmar) never quit and they played us to a tie in the second quarter. That was the best third-quarter we played I mean, that was just good lacrosse,” Haugh said.

“We asked them to just move the ball don’t be selfish. Don’t worry about whether you score or not. Just

make sure that you move the ball around and the scoring will come …. That was one of the best third-quarters that we’ve seen.

“Those guys that didn’t get to play every single game got a lot of playing time and they did good things. They didn’t just go out there and mop up for us. They went out there and they played lacrosse every single one of them played great in the fourth quarter. I mean it was just more important to us (coaches) to see that. The kind of stuff that happened …these guys that are naturally good, you know they’re going to score but to see the way our backups went in there and really played a great game. It was good, really happy.”

Prep’s last game of the season is May 6 against Sussex Academy at home.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS Senior attackman Jake Campbell, shown on the move, had two goals in the rout of Delmar last week.

At half-time against Delmar last week, Worcester Prep recognized the five seniors on the boys team. Pictured, from left, with their parents and siblings, are Paxton Mault, Dawson Davis, Max Carpenter, Jake Campbell and Ansh Batra.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Junior Danny Kirwan, who has committed to play at Bucknell University, is pictured scoring on a weak-handed goal against Delmar. He had four goals and three assists in the game.

Decatur boys rebound for playoffs after early losses

By Bruce C. Walls

Contributing Writer

(May 1, 2026) Stephen Decatur’s boys varsity lacrosse team has won four straight after some stumbles early on against solid competition.

With the postseason looming, Decatur got a chance to clear its bench last Friday, winning 24-0 over North Dorchester.

The Seahawks are on a four-game win streak with 3-0 in conference and 6-4 overall.

Decatur had some bumps early on, falling to Fallston, 7-6; Sts. Peter and Paul, 12-8; archrival Kent Island, 97; and Broadneck, 12-10.

This win streak started with a win

against James M Bennett 17-6, Easton, 16-4 and Queen Anne’s, 17 - 7. Seahawks were far too much for North Dorchester, leading 9-0 after the first quarter.

The most excitement happened in the second quarter with Stephen Decatur hitting the board 30 seconds in with a goal from Gio Gregg, two minutes later Jack Popielaski made his mark. The tempo picked up with the Seahawks scoring 30 seconds later, again in one minute, again in two minutes. Decatur led at the half, 180.

Scoring four goals apiece senior attackmen John Fohner and Ashton March.

Goalie senior Declan Horan, who had two saves, made his first goal in four years when he was put in during the fourth quarter. He thanked the coach for letting him out of the cage.

After the game, assistant coach Tyler Workman said, “I felt like we put a complete game together. That was different since we started at the beginning of the season. We’ve really been able to figure out how to put a whole game together and today we were able to finally do that.

“We flipped our lineup tonight. We rotated a lot of guys in that normally don’t get to see some time to get them some more experience on the field.”

Coach Gunner Reynolds said, “I don’t think I would change a whole lot tonight. I got a lot of respect for that team coming down here and they’re very well coached. I think our guys are just lights out. We came ready to play have a chip on our shoulder due to being five and four this year as of right now and you know we got a lot to work on moving forward into the playoffs.”

In what should be a competitive

matchup of Bayside foes Decatur hosts Parkside at home on May 1.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Senior defenseman Jack Brady picks up loose ball before looking up the field for a teammate.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Calen Shockley had three goals during the game against North Dorchester.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Senior faceoff specialist Brody Lynch scoops a loose ball, moving the ball during the game against North Dorchester.

MAY HOURS

MONDAY 4PM-9PM

TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY CLOSED THURSDAY 4PM-9PM FRIDAY &

MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED COMPLIMENTARY MIMOSA FOR MOM, WITH PURCHASE OF ADULT BUFFET $39 ADULTS | $19 CHILDREN 6-12 5 & UNDER FREE | 10AM - 3PM