05/02/2025 OC Today-Dispatch

OC Today-Dispatch

OC bike week bail-out?

With promoter OC Jams LLC out of the picture, the future of one Ocean City’s biggest events of the year depends on city officials finding someone to take over. One local company will make its pitch Monday — PAGE 12

SHA repairs and cleaning of concrete under Route 50 bridge will lead to restricted ingress and egress at times into next year. — PAGE 3 County smacked with new unfunded mandate from Md. — PAGE 14

Most everyone agrees the new sign design for the Boardwalk looks good, but not everyone is crazy about the proposed bold color scheme. — PAGE 22 v

Lane closures on Route 50 bridge likely for summer

By Bethany Hooper

Associate Editor

(May 2, 2025) The Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) reports lane closures will continue on the Route 50 bridge through next summer.

While work on the signals and machinery room are now complete, SHA spokesperson Danny Allman said motorists can expect lane closures to continue on the Harry W. Kelley Memorial Bridge through June 2026 as the agency begins concrete work.

When reached for comment this week, Ocean City Public Works Director Hal Adkins called the move “illogical,” noting the impacts such closures would have on traffic as the city enters its summer season.

“We, public works, strive annually to complete all of our major roadway work prior to Memorial Day Weekend and SHA, historically speaking, did so themselves having recognized the severe inconvenience it poses to our traffic if lane closures are permitted to continue into the summer,” he said.

In January, SHA began an exten-

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PHOTO COURTESY SHA

The eastern portion of the Route 50 bridge is pictured in February when maintenance work resulted in routine lane closures.

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Officials say OC bridge work could extend into 2026

Continued from Page 3

sive project on the machinery room areas of the bridge’s draw span, necessitating roadway, sidewalk and marine channel closures throughout the duration of construction work.

And in March, the agency reported it had begun its replacement of traffic signals, which would allow bridge-opening operations to resume.

However, single-lane closures will likely continue into the summer months and throughout the coming year, SHA shared this week. In an effort to repair concrete soffits, the agency reports it will need lane closures to accommodate hydro demolition and concrete pumping equipment.

“All the work up top on the US 50 Harry Kelley Bridge has been done to address the signals at the draw span. The machinery room work is also completed,” Allman said. “The concrete work will continue until finished June 2026 and lane closures are required.”

SHA District Engineer Mark Crampton came before the mayor and Ocean City Council earlier this week to provide a spring update on various transportation projects throughout town.

The bridge work and planned lane closures were not mentioned in his presentation.

But Adkins said he had complete faith in Crampton and his team at the local district. He said if they were aware, they would have broached the topic at this week’s meeting.

“It is also noteworthy (though trivial in comparison to the potential impacts on traffic), that many visitors chose to fish on and under the Route 50 bridge as part of their vacation planning,” he added, “and a project of this sort would limit/eliminate their ability to do so (due to safety zones that would be established around the work zone).”

TidalHealth absorbs AGH in hospital merger

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(May 2, 2025) After a short engagement, the Lower Shore’s two leading hospital systems have finalized their marriage.

The chief executive officers of Atlantic General Hospital (AGH) and TidalHealth signed a definitive agreement Thursday at the AGH campus in Berlin. The merger will bring the two health systems together under the umbrella of TidalHealth, and the combined company will employ about 6,000 people on Delmarva.

AGH President Don Owrey called the merger “an exciting new chapter for Atlantic General,” one that gives AGH access to the resources and capabilities of a larger healthcare network.

“This affiliation ensures that patients across Worcester and Sussex

Counties continue to receive the personalized care they expect from their local hospital and providers, backed by the strength and added capability of

TidalHealth,” Owrey said in a statement.

The partnership will strengthen the hospital’s ability to recruit and retain a high-quality workforce, and also will provide AGH capital funding to expand services, officials said.

the merger.

AGH and its affiliated services, medical practices, and outpatient facilities now joins the TidalHealth organization that already includes its flagship Salisbury hospital, Peninsula Regional. TidalHealth already has medical campuses in Ocean Pines and Millsboro, Delaware.

TidalHealth CEO Steve Leonard in a statement said they’re proud to partner with a healthcare provider that has similar philosophies and beliefs.

“Together we will be working throughout the region to improve health and wellness across the continuum of care,” said Leonard. “We continue to look for partners on this journey and are excited about the opportunities to positively impact additional lives through the growth that will follow.”

For now, the public will see few front-facing changes; AGH will continue to be branded as Atlantic General. No job losses are anticipated on either side of the merger, officials have stated. Leonard has previously stated he plans to welcome all contracted AGH physicians into the TidalHealth family.

Behind the scenes, however, both sides will work on integrating clinical and business operations like IT, payroll, and converting AGH to a new electronic medical records system called Epic.

The AGH board will be integrated into the TidalHealth system, maintaining a degree of local governance, but TidalHealth will become the sole member of the AGH Corporation Board after

In the face of ongoing challenges like labor shortages and recruiting difficulties, stagnant reimbursement, and the rigor of a state-mandated billing structure, the AGH Board of Trustees in 2024 decided to explore a partnership with another hospital system.

“It became more evident that AGH might benefit from being part of a larger system,” spokeswoman Toni Keiser said in December. “The Board believes the timing is appropriate to align with a like-minded organization who shares our commitment to keeping high quality care close to home.”

The merger process moved relatively quickly and both sides signed a letter of intent agreement Dec. 12 to launch their partnership process.

It’s the second major merger for the company in recent years. In 2020, the former Peninsula Regional health system absorbed both McCready Memorial Hospital in Crisfield and Nanticoke Memorial Hospital in Seaford, Delaware. The merged entity rebranded as TidalHealth.

AGH had been an independent entity in Berlin since it opened in 1993.

BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Pictured, from left, at yesterday’s ceremonial signing of the merger paperwork were Doug Cook, AGH Board of Trustees chair; Don Owrey, CEO of AGH; Steve Leonard, CEO of TidalHealth; and Memo Diriker, TidalHealth Board chair.

OC Bikefest likely to see operator changes

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 2, 2025) With the current promoter of OC Bikefest in default, city officials have agreed to hear a proposal from a new operator, which is seeking to host the event in 2025 and 2026.

During Tuesday’s work session, City Manager Terry McGean presented the Ocean City Council with a recommendation to have Kickin Events share its plan for taking over Bikefest in the coming years.

While the city has a three-year contract with the event’s current promoter, OC Jams LLC, he said that company was now in default.

“We have been contacted by another promoter, Kickin Events,” he said. “The owner of Kickin Events had previously been one of the larger sponsors of Bikefest. They are interested in taking on the

event for 2025 and 2026.”

In 2023, Ocean City entered into a contract with Wisconsin-based OC Jams LLC to host OC Bikefest in 2023, 2024 and 2025.

That agreement required the promoter to pay the city $54,014 to lease the inlet lot – a figure derived from the loss in parking revenue – as well as $2 per ticket sold to cover other city expenses associated with the event. Under a separate contract, OC Jams LLC also rented the convention center for $35,766.

With the company now in default over some terms of its agreement with the city, McGean said the 2025 event remains in question. However, he said he was seeking the council’s interest in hearing from a new promoter – Kickin Events. Matthew Odachowski, founder and president of Royal Plus Inc., is listed as the company’s registered agent.

“If the council wants to hear from them, my recommendation would be to invite them in for Monday night to have them present their proposal and discuss it with you,” he said.

The council voted 6-0, with Councilman Jake Mitrecic absent, to bring Kickin Events to next Monday’s regular council meeting, scheduled for 6 p.m.

Within hours of that vote, an email was reportedly sent to ticket holders regarding the 2025 event.

“Currently, OC Bikefest 2025 is undergoing an organizational and ownership shift and, we’re told, there will be fresh energy coming to make this year’s event a roaring success,” the email reads. “We know how much this rally means to you and the area and we’re here to support making it the best experience possible. Thanks for the continued support – we’ll have more updates for you very

soon!”

Ahead of Tuesday’s work session, questions have circulated on social media about the future of Bikefest, scheduled to take place Sept. 10-14, 2025. While tickets went on sale late last year, attendees had questioned why this year’s concert lineup and vendor list have not been shared.

“Something is strange this year,” one Facebook comment reads, “it’s been over 3 months since they posted anything at all, no concerts, no updates on vendors, nothing.”

OC Jams LLC was viewed with suspicion in 2023, when Chase Micheal, son of the company’s president, Kathy Micheal, was arrested for allegedly issuing more than $500,000 in bad checks to pay for the production of Panama City’s Thunder Beach motorcycle rally.

Even though those circumstances were not connected to OC Jams, when news reached Ocean City, officials investigated and found something similar had happened with OC Bikefest.

Following this week’s vote, Council President Matt James questioned if Micheal operated any other bike events on the East Coast or throughout the country. McGean said he would find out.

In the meantime, OC Today-Dispatch reported online that Micheal, 41, is being held without bond in Florida, according to Bay County Sheriff’s Office documents. He has been in custody since Jan. 18 for violating the terms of his bail agreement with the court by allegedly writing a bad check in December.

He had been free on $44,000 bail after being charged in September 2023 with 22 counts of issuing or causing to be issued bad checks totaling $538,571.69.

The charges stemmed from his attempt to turn Panama City, Florida’s Thunder Beach motorcycle rally, the rights to which he had purchased a year earlier, into something more like his Ocean City version.

He apparently pledged to bolster the event by bringing in big name musical acts. According to sheriff’s office investigators, however, he obtained loans from Bay County residents and others to help pay for the new entertainment and production costs. He then attempted to repay some of those loans with checks he could not cover, investigators said. Micheal, who lists his home address as Murfreesboro, Tennessee, is scheduled for a jury trial on June 16 in Bay County Circuit Court.

Correction

The April 25 article “Group submits rental petition for referendum” incorrectly states the status of the short-term rental ordinance being challenged by local property owners. A five-night minimum for short-term rentals in the R-1 residential and MH mobile home districts is currently in effect. We apologize for the error.

Boardwalk bike racks added as new means of dedication

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 2, 2025) The Town of Ocean City will begin a new Boardwalk dedication program.

On Tuesday, the Ocean City Council approved the creation of a new bike rack dedication program.

Modeled after the successful Boardwalk bench dedication program, officials say citizens will be able to dedicate a Boardwalk bike rack for a $2,500 fee.

“It’s cost neutral to the town,” City Manager Terry McGean said.

Currently, the city offers a dedication program in which plaques honoring loved ones are installed on Boardwalk benches. In recent years, however, the city has amassed a 700plus person waiting list.

In his presentation this week, Council Secretary Tony DeLuca, chair for the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC), told council members the group was recommending a second option – a bike dedication program that includes 47 locations along the Boardwalk. He said the bike racks would cost $500 less than the benches.

“We think this is going to sell out,” he said, “since it’s cheaper and imme-

diate.”

Operating on a first-come, firstserved basis, the dedication program will include a $2,500 cost to purchase, deliver and install the bike racks, plaques and hardware. As the anticipated lifespan of a rack is 10 years, officials report the dedication fee also covers its maintenance over the course of the decade.

At the end of a 10-year term, McGean said the donor can choose to keep the bike rack on the Boardwalk, which will require payment to replace the rack, to remove the bike rack and keep it for their personal use, or donate the bike rack to the city.

“You basically have three options,” he said.

DeLuca added that a test bike rack at North Division Street, donated by the First State Detachment Marine Corps League, had been successful.

“This is a real opportunity to take bike racks,” he said.

After further discussion, the council voted unanimously to approve the bike rack dedication program and to have the city solicitor develop a policy for its implementation.

Mayor Rick Meehan also asked that staff prepare an update on the city’s bench dedication program.

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State lays out unfunded mandates

Big budgetary shifts from Annapolis mean millions for counties’ bottom line

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(May 2, 2025) Maryland lawmakers are delivering $1.3 million in unfunded mandates to Worcester County, the result of efforts to balance the state’s budget by cost-sharing with counties.

changes will add $1,282,244 to county expenditures in fiscal 2026.

When it comes to funding for SDAT, the state and its counties for years have shared costs equally in a 50-50 split. But this new budget upends that arrangement and will force counties to pay 90 percent of costs, leaving 10% to the state. It’s budgeted to add $580,573 onto Worcester’s fiscal burden in 2026.

The budget passed by lawmakers also shifts $93 million in pro-rated teacher pension costs onto the counties. Worcester’s share is $672,312.

For the new fiscal year, which starts July 1, county governments will be on the hook for two big expenses: a greater share of teacher pensions and increased carrying costs for the state’s Department Assessment and Taxation, or SDAT.

Other new state-to-local cost shifts, across all 23 counties and Baltimore City, will include $4.8 million toward community college retirements and $25 million for nonpublic placement of special-needs students. These costs are nominal to Worcester County, totaling less than $30,000.

The budgetary moves come as state lawmakers worked feverishly during the 90-day Legislative Session to close a $3 billion revenue shortfall and balance the budget, which is required annually by law.

For Worcester, the overall budget

All in, the SDAT change represents a savings to the state of about $21 million – a figure that “doesn’t move the needle much” toward its $3 billion budget deficit, according to Worcester County Administrator Weston Young.

Young called the move “really short-sighted.”

“It’s another unfunded mandate,” he said. “They need to find money to pay for their commitments. A 50-50 split is fair. They’re struggling to pay their own bills. They shouldn’t just dump things down on the counties.”

“We pay 90% of the salaries of employees we don’t control – that’s what it is,” Young added. “My bigger worry is, it sets a precedent. These things add up.”

Because income taxes are collected by the state, any county government that fails to pay a mandate will see its income tax revenue garnished by the state, Young also noted.

“A lot of the counties are maxed out on their income tax revenue, and they’re struggling to pay the mandates now,” Young said. “Then you throw in a larger share of the teacher pension increases, it’s insult to injury. It’s putting an additional strain on all county budgets. If they give mandates, they typically should give a funding source,” he said.

An earlier recommendation from the state’s Department of Legislative Services for this legislative session would have shifted 100% of teacher pensions onto counties, a proposal that did not succeed legislatively. Until 2012, the state paid 100% of teacher pensions.

“It’s not tightening the belt – it’s just shifting the budget,” said Kevin Kinnally, the legislative director for the Maryland Association of Counties, or MACo. “Marylanders are still going to pay for this.”

Kinnally said MACo was able to fend off other unfunded mandates, like proposed cuts to the Enterprise Zone economic development program, as well as proposed cuts to Program Open Space, which funds environmental and conservation easements.

The state budget also includes another mandate: counties must pay 50% of settlements for wrongly incarcerated individuals. For example, the state’s Board of Public Works could agree to pay a big-ticket settlement, and then demand that Worcester, or any county, cough up half.

Kinnally added he was “particularly aggrieved” by the wrongful settlement initiative, not only because counties are not involved in the process, but it’s ultimately not a big cost savings for the state.

“We have no idea what these costs could or would be,” he said. “If someone is wrongly incarcerated, they deserve to be compensated, but there’s really no way to plan or budget for this. If you’re a small jurisdiction, that can be significant if you’re in the middle of a budget cycle. It’s puzzling. It felt kind of out of left field.”

The elephant in the room, Kinnally added, is how the federal government still may withhold as much as $1 billion in federal disaster mitigation funds for Maryland – a move that could trigger a special legislative session, leading to more budget cuts and tax hikes.

He also anticipated that a new tax on IT and business services, which was projected to raise $500 million in revenue, could be litigated and potentially repealed.

“Unfortunately,” Kinnally said of the state’s structural deficit, “I think they have flipped over every couch cushion.”

Hartman filing highlights early 2026 election season

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(May 2, 2025) Del. Wayne Hartman has filed to run for a third term in the House of Delegates, more than a year ahead of the 2026 primary.

Hartman told OC Today-Dispatch that he’s “very content” in his position representing Worcester and Wicomico counties in District 38C and wants to dispel any speculation that he’s eyeing a run for the state Senate.

“I have a great relationship with the constituency in my district,” he said Tuesday. “My personal values and beliefs are so in line with the district, in terms of supporting small business. I just really enjoy representing this district. I don’t see the need to run for a different office.”

He filed his candidacy on April 8, the day after the 2025 Legislative Session ended, according to the state Board of Elections website. He was first elected to the House of Delegates in 2018 and reelected in 2022. He also served one term on the Ocean City Council from 2014-18.

Hartman is currently serving as the Chief Deputy Whip in the House Republican caucus. He’s also a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, as well as the Racing and Gaming Subcommittee – which oversees the Ocean

Downs racetrack – and Revenues Subcommittee on Ways and Means.

During his two terms in the House, Hartman, 57, of Ocean Pines, says his good working relationships with other legislators and state officials have paid off legislatively, including securing funding for the Salisbury Regional Airport during the last session.

Hartman, a Republican, also says he’s among the highest-rated pro-business legislators in the General Assembly and was recognized by the Maryland Tourism Coalition as its 2024 Tourism Advocate of the Year.

“Annapolis is a challenging place to represent Republican values,” he said. “I think it’s important that we continue what we’re doing. Even in this challenging session, we’ve had a few successes, with a few bond projects for the district and passing legislation that’s important for the district.”

In the near future, Hartman said he expects to face new legislative challenges in the House, including the question of whether Ocean City will move forward with a sports complex, or if the resort is planning for another expansion of its convention center.

Few other candidates have jumped into the 2026 race this early in the

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OC Council considers law against sleeping in public

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 2, 2025) Citing the need to protect the safety and accessibility of citizens, the Ocean City Council on Tuesday agreed to move forward with a new law to address sleeping and storing personal property in public places.

The ordinance, City Solicitor Heather Stansbury told officials, would strike a balance that protects residents and visitors while allowing public places to remain open.

As presented, the law would prohibit sleeping in or obstructing public places and storing personal property in or on public places. The ordinance also gives law enforcement the authority to move people and belongings and issue warnings and violations.

“We just want compliance,” Stansbury said. “We aren’t looking to arrest anyone.”

In her presentation this week, Stansbury said the council had recently directed staff to evaluate the city’s options for regulating such actions. Working with Ocean City Police Department command staff, she said they crafted an ordinance, which was being presented for consideration this week.

“We’re trying to balance the council duty to protecting the health, safety and

welfare while recognizing that we don’t want to go further than we need to with his ordinance,” she said.

Stansbury said the ordinance would address several concerns shared by the council, including the accumulation of trash, human waste and other hazardous materials in public places, and instances of people and property obstructing the public way – including the Boardwalk, sidewalks, transit stations and alleyways.

“We want your residents and visitors to be able to enjoy those items for its regular and ordinary purpose …,” she said.

Stansbury added that the storing of private property has led to some damage of public property. She also noted complaints from businesses impacted by public sleeping or the storing of personal property.

However, she said the ordinance was also designed to protect citizens from potential crime.

“We have seen individuals who have slept in, for example, a bus stop or on a sidewalk, become the victim of crimes,” she said. “While you’re sleeping, you’re the most vulnerable that you can be.”

Stansbury said those found in violation of sleeping in or obstructing public places, or storing personal property in public places, would be charged with a misdemeanor, punishable by a $1,000 fine and up to 90 days incarceration. However, violators will first be issued warnings, she added.

For personal property, for example, law enforcement will post a pre-removal notice, with the exception that the personal property poses a threat to the health, safety and welfare, or impedes access. In that instance, a discarded personal property notice would be issued. All personal property would be stored for 30 days.

After a brief discussion, the council voted unanimously to have the city solicitor prepare an ordinance for first reading, which will be introduced at next Monday’s regular meeting.

Candidates look ahead to 2026

Continued from Page 15

process.

The only candidates who have filed for re-election, online records show, are Susan Braniecki for Worcester County Clerk of Circuit Court and Worcester County Sheriff Matt Crisafulli, both Republicans.

Kathy Cater of Bishopville, a retired school administrator, has filed to run for a nonpartisan District 6 seat on the Worcester County Board of Education, records also show. The seat is currently held by Katie Addis.

The 2026 primary election is scheduled for June 30 statewide, with

‘Green Marlin’ may take Ocean City to court

they are entitled to do.”

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 2, 2025) Representatives of a proposed cannabis dispensary say they are exploring legal options after an Ocean City board denied their zoning appeal.

On April 24, the Ocean City Board of Zoning Appeals agreed that a proposed cannabis dispensary at 2100 Philadelphia Avenue did not meet the requirements of the city’s zoning code, effectively upholding a determination from the city’s zoning administrator.

Now, representatives for the cannabis dispensary say they will likely appeal that decision to the court system.

“What our next step is, is unclear,” said Justin Tepe, attorney for applicant Guru Ventures. “But my client is definitely determined to enforce what

Last year, the Maryland Cannabis Administration awarded Shreif Shata’s Guru Ventures a license to operate a dispensary in Worcester County. Shata’s plan is to open his new business – to be named Green Marlin – at the Phillips Plaza Shopping Center. The dispensary would replace the smoke shop located in the building.

However, the city’s zoning officials argue the proposed location violates zoning restrictions, as it is within 500 feet of both a public park (the beach) and recreation centers (a hotel pool and miniature golf course), within 100 feet of areas zoned for residential use, and is located in an area zoned for residential use. Because of the city’s pyramidal zoning system, even commercial properties like the one identified for the proposed dispensary are simultaneously zoned for housing.

To that end, Guru Ventures representatives came before the appeals board last week to challenge the zoning determination, issued by Planning

et's Turn Your Next

and Community Development Director George Bendler.

City makes case for zoning determination

In his presentation last week, Ocean City Zoning Analyst Chase Phillips argued Bendler had been correct in his interpretation, as the proposed dispensary would be located within 408 feet of the beach, 122 feet from a miniature golf course, and 75 feet from a hotel pool. While acknowledging that recreation centers were not defined in the city’s zoning code, he said Bendler considered the beach, pool and miniature golf course as such.

“It was found that these are recreation centers because they are typical activities that any summer visitor may partake in that are leisurely and associated with a summer vacation when folks are not working,” he said. “So Mr. Bendler has considered these recreation centers and therefore it’s inconsistent with one of the location requirements.”

Phillips said staff also determined

the proposed dispensary was within 500 feet of a public park – in this case, the beach – and within 100 feet of property zoned for residential use. He also noted the property itself is zoned for residential use and had an active rental license for employee housing units on the second floor.

“The subject site which is completely in LC-1,” he explained, “and in Ocean City, the local commercial district permits residential uses.”

Mariner’s Watch resident Robert Anthony also came before the appeals board last week to share his objections to the proposed cannabis dispensary. He said he had concerns about the dispensary’s proximity to residential areas and family-oriented businesses.

“We respectfully urge you to continue your efforts to make and keep Ocean City a family resort by denying a cannabis dispensary from being located at this location where so many children are present,” he said.

Applicant objects to findings

During his testimony last week, Shata said he had 18 months to locate and build out a dispensary in order to meet the terms of his conditional license. However, he said the recent zoning determination has blocked his company’s efforts.

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He said the issue has also caught the attention of the Maryland Cannabis Administration, which reached out to him after seeing an article in the OC Today-Dispatch.

“They wanted to know why it was denied,” he said.

Attorney Christoher Dahl, representing both Guru Ventures and Phillips Plaza LLC, voiced his opposition to the zoning determination, arguing that the city’s distances were measured from the property line, rather than the proposed storefront. If measured from the storefront, he said the proposed dispensary met the distance thresholds.

Phillips Plaza LLC principal Mike Ramadan also noted that while the property encompassed an entire block, it was 12 individual parcels,

Cannabis dispensary voted down by OC BZA

Continued from Page 18

with the proposed dispensary to be located on two of those parcels.

“The city took the block as a whole, and that’s how they based the distances and everything,” he said.

Dahl also challenged the city’s determination on residential use. He said the intent of the state statute was to protect areas of exclusive residential use.

“Nothing here is exclusive residential use,” he said of the property.

Ramadan also pointed to the residential units on the second floor of the shopping center. While he acknowledged he had a current rental license for the units, he said they were no longer in use.

“In the years before, they were using it as housing for the rooms upstairs,” he explained. “However, we decided to make them vacant and not use those units upstairs. So now it’s just a shopping center on the first floor.”

Dahl also argued that the beach, pool and miniature golf course were not considered public parks or recreation centers, and that the city was applying more restrictive measures to a cannabis dispensary than it was for the beer and wine store located next door.

State statute notes that municipal-

ities cannot create zoning for cannabis dispensaries that are more restrictive than alcohol retailers.

“No matter what the county does, what the town does, what the city does, if it’s a municipal corporation they can’t treat cannabis worse than retail dealers licensed under the statute,” he said. “Retail dealers licensed under the statute, in short, are beer and wine stores. If you have an ordinance that treats cannabis dispensaries worse than beer and wine stores, that’s illegal.”

Board supports most zoning arguments

At the conclusion of a three-hour hearing, Phillip noted the board was tasked with one request – to determine if Bendler’s zoning determination was correct. Board member Emily Nock agreed.

“I think one of the biggest things that our board is tasked with is determining whether the zoning administrator went along with the city code,” she said, “not whether the city code complies with the state code.”

After a lengthy review of the arguments presented last week, the board voted 4-0, with member Brian Shane absent, on several motions, most of which upheld Bendler’s zoning determinations.

“Mr. Bendler’s position is affirmed

in part,” Chair Christopher Rudolf said.

They agreed the proposed dispensary is within 100 feet of an area zoned for residential use, within 500 feet of a public park, and located in an area zoned for residential use. They also agreed the zoning administrator followed city code by measuring distance from the property line.

“The measuring is set out in the city code …,” board member Dan Stevens said. “We use the town code – right, wrong or indifferent.”

However, the board disagreed with the administrator’s finding that a nearby pool and miniature golf course were classified as a recreation center.

“I believe, except for the interpretation of the mini golf courses and pools as recreation centers, I do think the zoning administrator did correctly interpret the city code,” Nock said.

Applicant exploring options

In an interview this week, Tepe said his client would await the board’s written findings before deciding how to proceed. However, he shared his client’s disappointment with the board’s decision.

“Voters decided cannabis is permitted in the state of Maryland. It’s going to be in Ocean City, whether they like it or not,” he said. “So wouldn’t it be better to have a regulated dis-

pensary providing this, rather than people getting it on the street?”

Tepe also shared his frustration over the city’s interpretation of the zoning code, which he said eliminated the ability for cannabis dispensaries to operate in town.

“So effectively what they’ve done is zone out dispensaries from the town of Ocean City,” he said, “and not only does that go against state statute, but that is what they wanted to prohibit … It’s bad business.”

When reached for comment late last week, Ramadan also indicated he would continue the fight to bring a cannabis dispensary to his shopping center.

“My lawyers advised me that we were in the right regarding the ability to open the cannabis dispensary,” he said in a statement. “I’m very disappointed in the result and I’m disturbed that the board wouldn’t consider whether Ocean City’s ordinance complied with Maryland law, because I don’t think it does.”

He continued, “It is our position that the town has acted illegally in violation of Maryland Law. I hope the Governor’s office or the Attorney General’s office looks into this because we cannot have rogue town government’s blatantly violating Maryland’s laws.”

OCDC airs concerns with new sign designs

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 2, 2025) Staff fielded complaints on color schemes and displays this week as they presented an update on the city’s Boardwalk signage master plan.

As a consultant continues to develop a master plan for consolidating and revamping Boardwalk signage, Planning and Community Development Director George Bendler came before the Ocean City Council on Tuesday with an update on its progress.

Presenting mockups of the proposed signage and photos of repainted posts and towers, the design represents a significant departure from the understated and traditional approach the city has used for years in directing pedestrian traffic.

It was also a point of contention during this week’s discussion, during which Ocean City Development Corporation (OCDC) Executive Director Zach Bankert came before the council to express his board’s disapproval.

He argued the signs were too bright and glossy and did not match the architecture found along the Boardwalk and in downtown Ocean City.

“We appreciate the effort,” he said, “but we don’t feel like this is the particular direction we should be going in with that effort.”

Examples of future wayfinding signage for Ocean City’s Boardwalk were presented this week to members of the Town Council for review. Officials say as many as 600

Bankert said his organization supported efforts to consolidate the 600-plus city signs along the Boardwalk and had even participated in a vision session for the Boardwalk signage master plan. He said it was during those back-and-forth discussions that the OCDC shared their concerns regarding the colors and shapes,

which he said did not match the mid-Atlantic, turn-of-the-century aesthetic.

City Manager Terry McGean said staff had met with Bankert and OCDC Board President Joe Wilson to listen to their concerns. However, before staff could

bring back alternatives, he said OCDC had issued a memo to the mayor and City Council expressing their opposition. McGean said he believed the redesign supported the “fun, whimsical” nature of

See VISIONS Page 23

Woman convicted of check fraud, forgery in $23K theft

(May 2, 2025) A Maryland woman has been sentenced to three years in jail with six months suspended in an Ocean City hotel theft case.

On April 11, Sierah Angelique Sasso, 30, of Pikesville, plead guilty to forgery private documents possession and was sentenced to three years in jail with all but six months suspended. The sentence also carried an 18-month supervised probation clause.

After the sentence, Sasso, through her attorney Tom Maronick, sought a reduction in the sentence for home confinement due to the woman having two children, including a toddler with autism, as well as loss of her job if she remained incarcerated.

The case dates back to Oct. 18, 2024, when Ocean City police met with representatives of the Castle in the Sand Hotel who told police the owner had signed a check payable to Holt Paper & Chemical Co for $23,278 out of the business operating account.

The representative told police the check was dropped at the United States Post Office branch on 4th Street on Oct. 7 to be mailed to the Salisbury business address.

Nine days later, the hotel was contacted by the M&T Fraud Division due to a “potential fraudulent deposit” made by Sasso, according to the statement of charges. The bank’s fraud representa-

tives advised the hotel to contact police with documentation forwarded, including a copy of the check that had been altered to payable to Sasso at her Pikesville address rather than the Salisbury-based vendor originally included on the check.

Police interviewed the bank’s fraud representative and learned Sasso used an M&T ATM in Pikesville to deposit the forged check into her account.

Though the deposit was successful, “the transaction raised flags, leading to the account being frozen that same day, due to its suspicious nature,” according to the statement of charges.

Further investigation determined Sasso admitted to depositing the check, claiming it was for entertainment provided at the hotel. Ocean City police spoke with Sasso over the phone on Nov. 14 who said she could not speak because she was working. The phone call was not returned.

On Dec. 9, surveillance video from the ATM was secured after a subpoena was issued to M&T Bank. The video showed Sasso clearly depositing the hotel’s check.

After the investigation, Sasso was charged by police with forgery private documents, forgery private documents possession, issuing a false document and theft $1,500 to under $25,000.

A hearing on the sentence reduction and/or modification motion is set for May 23.

Visions clash for new signage

the Boardwalk and turn-of-the-century architecture.

“I don’t think they’re mutually exclusive,” he said.

For his part, Mayor Rick Meehan acknowledged OCDC’s concerns. He argued the proposed design did not incorporate the traditional feel of the Boardwalk.

“We often refer to our Boardwalk as our iconic Ocean City Boardwalk, and we talk about nostalgia – a word very often about the Boardwalk – and vintage, and I’m just not sure that this depicts that along the Boardwalk …,” he said. “Sometimes you have to combine the past with the future. And that’s what I look at the Boardwalk as.”

Councilwoman Carol Proctor also shared concerns about the sign towers, which were recently painted the city’s signature blue color. She said the color clashed with the white lights, brown benches and green trash cans.

“When I go down, it really does change the historic feel of Ocean City’s Boardwalk,” she said. “It’s an icon. It’s the centerpiece of Ocean City.”

Councilman Jake Mitrecic agreed.

“I think it’s too much, too fast,” he said of the redesign. “I do think, aesthetically, it’s not as pleasing as it was in the mockups.”

For his part, Tourism and Business

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Development Director Tom Perlozzo acknowledged any change on the Boardwalk would be an adjustment. However, he said the blue sign towers were painted to make them easily identifiable for guests walking up and down the boards.

“You have to think about population …,” Bendler added. “This is for the tourist. This is for the visitor.”

Public Works Deputy Director Woody Vickers told council members this week that the sign towers had already received a first coat of blue paint. He said if the council wanted to go in a different direction, he needed to know before the city’s contractor finishes the job next week.

“If there’s a desire to make them white again, I need to know that,” he said.

After further discussion, the council voted 7-0 to repaint the sign towers white, but to keep the roof and trim colors blue.

“Maybe we can rework the towers,” Council President Matt James said.

Back on the topic of signage, council members said they supported the proposed design.

When asked if the new signs would be installed before the summer season, McGean said that was unlikely. He said the city has budgeted for painting but has not priced out the cost of the signs.

OCPD’s retiring K-9’s career recapped, new dog steps in

Police department brings in new

(May 2, 2025) After seven years of dedicated service, the Ocean City Police Department honored this week the retirement of K-9 Smoke, a dualpurpose patrol and narcotics detection Belgian Malinois who has served with distinction with partner PFC Erika Rhode.

Born and raised in the Netherlands, K-9 Smoke joined the department in March 2018 after he and Rhode completed a six-week handler course at Shallow Creek Kennels in Sharpsville, Pa.

From the beginning, their bond and teamwork set a high standard for police K-9 performance. Throughout his impressive career, K-9 Smoke was deployed over 370 times, including 278 vehicle scans, 49 building searches, 21 tactical deployments, 27 arrests, eight weapons seizures and $5,390 in seized U.S. currency.

“K-9 Smoke was not only an asset in the field but a beloved member of the department family,” an OCPD press release stated. “He was always present at roll call and frequently seen patrolling the hallway or kitchen in search of his next snack.”

In March 2024, K-9 Smoke sustained an injury during training that required extensive surgery. Despite his resilience, the injury led to complications that ultimately forced his retirement from full duty. While it was a difficult transition, his legacy of service remains strong.

Rhode has been an exemplary K-9 handler, earning certifications as a decoy and in tactical K-9 medical care. She recently completed a 12week Advanced K-9 Trainer School, further preparing her to support the needs of one of the longest-running K-9 Units in Maryland.

Thanks to the generosity of Chesapeake K-9, a nonprofit organization based in Annapolis, ˜the department has welcomed a new member to the K-9 team: K-9 Cido (“SEEDOUGH”). Cido, a 15-month-old Belgian Malinois born in Poland, was hand-selected by Rhode earlier this year.

Certified through the North American Police Work Dog Association, K9 Cido will serve as a dual-purpose police K-9 in narcotics detection and patrol operations.

“Although Erika now partners with K-9 Cido, the love and respect we have for K-9 Smoke will never fade,” said Chief Raymond Austin. “Smoke was not only faithful protector but a true friend to all in our department. K-9 Smoke, you have earned your retirement. Enjoy the long naps, extra treats, and unconditional love from your family.

Thank you for your years of loyal service. And to K-9 Cido, welcome to the team; your journey begins now.”

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Ocean City Police PFC Erika Rhode is pictured with retiring K-9 Smoke as well as new K-9 Cido.

PHOTO COURTESY OF KATHY CORCORAN

(May 2, 2025) Thee 35th Annual Cruisin Ocean City kicked off yesterday with a Boardwalk parade and continues through Sunday, May 4.

This nationally recognized event attracts more than 3,000 customs, hot rods, street machines, classics and more. While the main events take place at the Inlet Parking Lot and the 49th Street lot, there will be various citywide locations including the Roland E. Powell Convention Center’s south parking lot and the Outlets Ocean City in West Ocean City.

Scheduled to appear at this year’s Cruisin, from the hit Netflix series “Rust Valley Restorers” is Avery Shoaf. Avery will be at the beachside Inlet Thursday and Saturday and at 49th Street on Friday.

Also joining the fun will be WWE Hall

of Famer, WWE Ambassador and World Heavyweight Champion Sgt. Slaughter. The Sarge will be at the 49th Street location on Thursday, and at the Inlet on Friday and Saturday talking all things wrestling with fans.

Additional entertainment includes Deejay Seaside Jimmy, Cruisin Gold Deejay, the 10th 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, Advantage Lifts, AMSOIL, Bruno’s Classic Muscle, Cabella’s Chevy Performance, Classic Auto Mall, Edelbrock, Euroshine USA, Gateway Classic Cars, Globex Connections, Halo Lifts, Morton’s Towing, National Parts Depot, OPTIMA, Southern Rod & Parts and more. There will also be a Swap Meet at the 49th Street Oceanfront Parking Lot.

New this year, there will be indoor vendors at the Outlets Ocean City in West Ocean City on Friday and Saturday selling automotive products, arts and crafts and specialty items.

Additional Cruisin Ocean City highlights are the special Boardwalk parades that will take place Friday and Saturday mornings. Cars will cruise from 27th Street south to the Inlet parking lot beginning at 8 a.m.

On Sunday. the Grand Finale Awards will take place at the 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 and Saturday and $10 a day for Sunday, good at the Inlet, 49th Street lot and the convention center’s south parking lot. Children under 14 are free with an adult.

Show hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday with the Grand Finale Awards starting at 2 p.m.

For additional information visit www.cruisinoceancity.com or call 410798-6304.

A press release from event organizers stressed the importance of public safety throughout the event weekend.

“Cruisin Ocean City has always held safety as our number one priority. The event does not tolerate unlawful activities or the disrespect of Ocean City,” the release states. “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 Ocean City for 2025 and years to come.”

Cruisin’s daily Boardwalk parades are highlights of the annual weekend.

Debbie Hileman

Cell: 443-235-5982

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Lynch’s 26 years of Berlin service

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(May 1, 2025) The Town of Berlin said goodbye to Paula Lynch this week, a retired, longtime councilwoman, who passed away at the age of 89 at Atlantic General Hospital on Friday, April 25.

Lynch served 26 years on the Berlin Town Council, from 1988 to 2014. A moment of silence was taken in her honor at the Berlin Mayor and Council’s Monday, April 28 meeting, and a few members of the municipality’s governing body shared kind words about the late councilwoman.

Dean Burrell, council vice president, noted that he had the privilege of serving with Lynch “for several years.”

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“She was a splendid representative of our town,” Burrell said. “One knowledgeable, one able, one always informed. I am saddened by her passing, but I am elated to be able to say to the public that she was a wonderful lady.”

Councilmember Steve Green also shared a few memories of Lynch, who was a founding business manager and bookkeeper at Worcester Country School, now Worcester Preparatory School.

“Talk about a firecracker, but someone with a heart of gold” Green said. The councilman added that an early memory he has of Lynch was as a junior in high school planning the prom, specifically booking bands for the dance as a student at Worcester Prep.

“Everyone had to go into her office to talk about money,” Green said. “We had a band quote for $500, she put it on speaker and she was going, ‘go down, it’s gotta be down lower, $500, no way.’ And we got them down to $300. She brought that through her whole life. She had a charm about her. She was a little harsh on the outside at times, but on the inside, I thought she had a heart of gold.”

Green proposed that the new road planned at Heron Park be named Lynch Lane, or something similar, in honor of the former councilwoman. Green acknowledged that many deserve the recognition but asked the governing group to consider the distinction when the time is right in the future.

“I just want it to be considered,” he said. “We don’t need to make a decision this early, but I think it’s fitting … I think it would be a nice tribute for her.”

Councilman Jay Knerr added that he, too, “had a good rapport” with Lynch.

“I knew her for a long time,” he said. “She was the one who encouraged me to run for council, so I very much appreciated our discussions over the years.”

Knerr noted that his memories of Lynch also extend back to his days as a parent at the private school.

“My first interaction with her was that I hadn't paid my Worcester Prep tuition,” the council member said. “It was two days late, and she called me, and it was like dealing with the IRS…it

Moment of silence observed

never happened again. She was great.”

Lynch was initially elected to the council in 1988. Her final meeting was in October 2014, 26 years later.

Berlin tourism grew during Lynch’s 26-year tenure, beginning with an Atlantic Hotel renovation that kicked off a renaissance of the old, historic town. In the spring of 2014, Budget Travel named Berlin “America’s Coolest Small Town.” According to a 2014 article from The Dispatch announcing Lynch’s final meeting, the councilwoman said that she saw the Budget Travel designation coming.

“Long before everybody else figured it out, I always knew Berlin was the coolest small town in America,” she said. “It’s been a pleasure, and it’s been a lot of fun. I’ll take a lot of great memories from my time on the council.”

The 2014 article from The Dispatch described Lynch as “the fiscal watchdog on the council” and someone with a “reputation for closely watching expenditures, counting pennies and keeping an eye on the books.”

This characteristic was on full display during her final meeting over 10 years ago as the governing team reviewed a contract for a sidewalk project on Tripoli Street. The 2014 report noted that after learning of the successful low bid of Worth Construction for the project, Lynch asked where the money was coming from in the town budget.

“I don’t see it anywhere in this year’s budget,” she said at the time.

“It’s just one of my things. I just want to make sure we can pay for it.”

Lynch was assured that the sidewalk expenditure was in the budget.

Green said this week that her tenacity and money-conscious mind continued after her elected service. Green recounted an instance last year when she questioned the absence of a line item in the town’s proposed budget. He said her diligence and attention to detail was part of her fabric.

Lynch had attended over 600 meetings, or two meetings a month for 12 months a year, when she retired from the council in 2014.

A funeral service will be held for Lynch on Friday, May 2 at 3 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Berlin. A visitation will take place one hour prior.

Lynch is pictured with Bud Church in 2014.

SCHOLAR ATHLETES RECOGNIZED

Bayside Athlete Conference Senior Scholar Athlete Awards were presented this week to standout student athletes from Worcester County Public Schools. Pictured, front from left, are Ryleigh Smith, Stephen Decatur High; Marrah Milbourne of Snow Hill High; and Aubrey Jackson Brown, Pocomoke High; back, from left, Bayside Conference President Brett Ireland; Davin Chandler, Stephen Decatur; Eu Scott, Pocomoke High; and Superintendent of Schools Lou Taylor.

First Friday reception opens new month of artist exhibits

(May 2, 2025) The Art League of Ocean City invites the public to the First Friday art opening on May 2, 5-7 p.m. at the Ocean City Center for the Arts, 502 94th St. bayside. Admission is free, and guests will enjoy complimentary refreshments and live music by Billy Zee, known as “The Party Shaker,” on acoustic guitar.

The Thaler Gallery exhibits a oneperson show by Jill Kohut of Berlin, Md., celebrated for large-scale floral paintings that explore the beauty and vitality of the natural world. Both a fine artist and arts educator who taught in the Wicomico Co. schools, Kohut brings an eye for detail to her work, blending bold composition with delicate nuance.

The Sisson Galleria hosts an allmedia group show entitled “No. 5.” For May, the 5th month of the year, artists depicted the number five in their own unique way — five senses, five fingers, five-sided shapes and beyond. Jesse Halpern, assistant professor and coordinator commercial photography at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, judged the show, and winners will receive cash prizes.

Carla Bessette and Sari Jo Fox share Studio E in May. Bessette paints realism in oils that she feels best portrays her interpretation of the beauty of the

local landscapes. Fox works natural elements into her work, giving the viewer an impression of sun, wind, wave, or a wet nose.

Carolyn Aberbach exhibits her paintings in the Schwab Spotlight Gallery in May. The artist works primarily in oil on canvas in a loose, impressionistic style blending harmonious color combinations with simplicity of design.

The “Portals” on-line exhibit that explores the theme of windows, doors, tunnels, gates, or a fictional doorway will show on monitors at the Arts Center through May.

The Burbage Staircase Gallery continues an exhibit by Abi Lightner.

Montgomery Financial is sponsoring the complimentary beverages during First Friday.

The Princess Royale satellite gallery, 9100 Coastal Hwy., continues an exhibit by photographer Angela Vinson, and The Coffee Beanery satellite gallery at 94th St. and Coastal Hwy. displays the work of Patricia Elmes Farley, a textile and paper artist.

The Arts Center shows will be on display through May 31; the satellite galleries, through June 28. More information is available at OCart.org or by calling 410-524-9433. A new Art League app is now available at no cost for all devices.

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SPRINGFEST WEEKEND

Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan is pictured with the OC Stars from Ocean City Elementary

last Thursday’s opening of the 34th Annual Springfest, which was held one week

Berlin churches announce stained glass window tour

(May 2, 2025) To highlight the long and unique history of the churches of Berlin, three downtown churches will welcome visitors to an “open house” tour of their buildings on Saturday, May 10. from 2 until 5 p.m. to learn about the stained-glass windows. Participants may begin at any of the three churches and then walk to the other churches and interact with a guide to view the exceptional glass artistry that enhances the buildings. The tour is free. Children are welcome.

Buckingham Presbyterian Church is one of the seven churches established in the 18th century by the founder of Presbyterianism in America, Reverend Francis Makemie. Several church buildings, all in close proximity of Berlin served as places of worship. Following the devastating fire in Berlin at the beginning of the 20th century, the current South Main Street building was constructed. Stunning stained-glass windows depict Bible stories and verses.

Stevenson Methodist Church continues the tradition of Methodism that began on the Eastern Shore of Maryland in the early 1770s. The congregation built a larger church on North Main Street in 1912. Recently restored stained-glass windows beautifully depict the life of Jesus.

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church this year celebrates 200 years on its current Church Street site. The original building was red brick with a traditional steeple. After the devastating fire of 1904, major renovations occurred including painting the brick white and replacing the steeple with a bell tower. Clear palladium windows were installed and later replaced by stained-glass windows, many of which were dedicated to individuals, towards the end of the 20th century.

Stained-glass window tour participants can begin the free tour at any of the three churches. Guides will welcome visitors and answer questions at each church. Parking is available at Buckingham Presbyterian on South Main Street and at St. Paul’s Episcopal on Church Street.

Additional parking is available at the Berlin Fire Company. Churches have restrooms. Light refreshments will be available. For handicapped accessibility questions, contact each church.

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Oasis Travel Night Come Learn About AMERICAN CRUISE LINE

Wednesday, May 7th, 2025 6:00 - 8:00pm Waterman’s Seafood Company in West Ocean City, 2nd Floor Please join us. Light fare included, drinks available for purchase at happy hour prices. RSVP to neil@travelwithoasis.com admin@travelwithoasis.com or 410-213-9330

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Berlin to host live music Saturday, market on Sunday

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(May 2, 2025) The start of event season in Berlin is here, as the town prepares for two of its springtime staples this weekend.

Sunday, May 2, marks the Berlin Farmers Market’s first day back after the winter-long hiatus. The weekly market crowds downtown Berlin each Sunday from May through October, as vendors sell and display produce, baked goods, seafood, meat, and more.

According to the Town of Berlin’s website, the weekly event yields over 50 farmers, food cultivators, bakers, distillers, seafood sellers, and meat vendors. Available products include peaches and blueberries from Bennett Orchards, honey from BayBees Farm, flowers from Assateague Farm, locally grown produce from Bratten Farm, Cross Farms, and Splendid Earth Acres Farm, in season fruit and mushroom logs from Goat Plum Tree Farm, locally grown mushrooms from The Bay Mushrooms Farm, beeswax products from 6 Kings Farm, goat milk items and hand-made wool products from Marshall Creek Farm, and items from Berlin Bison Ranch, Carniola Farm, Elf Enchanted Garden, Foxhound Farm, Dream Catcher Homestead, Reinke Lavender Farm, Sacred Sowings Collective, and Quinton’s Quality Products at Truitt Farm.

This season, the beloved Berlin Farmers Market will also feature locally made mead from the Buzz Meadery, Mandala Pies, teas from Little Green Witch Apothecary, Cast 26 Coffee Roasters, Baked Dessert Café, soy candles from Honey Water Candles, Mother Flowers, the Street Kicthen’s food truck, the Berlin Beer Company, the Berlin Cafe/Berlin Macaron Co., the Bleached Butterfly, Beached Begonias, Burley Oak Brewery, Boulangerie Gluten Free Bakery at The Inn Berlin, Forgotten 50 Distilling, Mary Fiore Photography, Skilligalee Seafood, and 2nd Wave Coffee, among others.

The Berlin Farmers Market begins at 9 a.m. and ends at 1 p.m., rain or shine, each Sunday until autumn. The event includes a petting farm from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., and live music funded by a Worcester County Arts Council grant.

Berlin’s annual Jazz, Blues, Wine and Brews event, sponsored by the chamber of commerce, is also back this weekend, kicking off at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 3.

The lineup will feature the Baione Quartet from 10:30 a.m. to noon, The Tribe Band from noon to 1:30 p.m., The Boneshakers from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m., Swamp Dog from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Stephen Harvey Octet from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Local beer, wine, mead, and spirits will also be available. Alcohol sales will end at 5 p.m. The event is free to attend. Outside coolers are prohibited.

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The Sterling Tavern owners Matt and Brooke Borrelli and their team won the most creative honors during last weekend’s fundraiser.

5th Mac & Cheese Cookoff serves as benefit for ALOC

(May 2, 2025) About $5,500 was raised for the Art League of Ocean City at the 5th Annual Mac & Cheese Cookoff held at the Residence Inn Ocean City.

Organizers expressed appreciation to the 50 local business that donated prizes for the event’s silent auction as well as those who attended who made the fundraiser successful.

A total of 13 local restaurants participated and four took home first place in the voting categories – Buxy’s Salty Dog Saloon, Cheesiest (Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells); Grandpa Mac Re-

hoboth, Kid’s Choice Big Mac Mac & Cheese; The Sterling Tavern, Most Creative. Creme Brulee Dessert Mac & Cheese; and Taylor’s BBQ, Best Overall, Pork Belly Mac & Cheese topped with Pork Belly Burnt Ends.

Other participants included Bayview Bar & Grille, Coastal Salt. Crabcake Factory Bayside, Greene Turtle North, Longboard Café, Madhatter’s Café, Matteo’s Salsa Loco, Ocean 13 and Pickles Pub. Music was provided by the Schizophrenic Boogiemen with about 125 guests in attendance.

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‘Keep Berlin Cool’ scores coastal bays grant

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(May 1, 2025) The Berlin Horticulture Advisory Committee announced that its “Keep Berlin Cool” initiative was selected as a grant recipient and will receive $2,980.

Last week, the group revealed via a Facebook post that its tree-planting project was chosen as a grant awardee. The funds will be dispersed by the Maryland Coastal Bays Program and are intended to “improve urban tree canopy cover and absorb stormwater runoff in town,” the post reads.

The project will include planting native trees between a mix of private residences, town-owned property, and congregations. According to horticulture committee member Victoria Spice, the initiative will likely target areas that were identified in a 2007 stormwater report conducted by the US Army Corps of Engineers.

“We want to target some of the areas that were identified in the USACE report, a stormwater report from 2007. A huge stormwater report was done in Berlin, where they identified some specific stormwater areas. So we combined

that report with some of our local knowledge of areas that flood and are really trying to target those problem areas.”

Spice added that while these sites will be prioritized, the horticulture group hopes to choose various spots in town to plant native trees.

“We recognize the fact that it’s also important to have buffers and have trees and vegetation around the areas… like the headwaters of these streams and so forth,” she continued. “We’re not closed off to any specific property.”

Spice said that the group has budgeted between one and three trees for

each of the 10 sites. A large part of the awarded funds will be used for the “five or seven-gallon native trees that we will be selecting for each property.”

The money will also be used to purchase shovels and supplies to support the plant materials, such as tree tubes and posts, and outreach postcards to be mailed to priority areas. Spice noted that once the trees are planted, the team also intends to create campaign signs to inform folks about the program.

Town staff will not be responsible for the work associated with the initiative. The horticulture team is leading

Initiative eyes 10 problem stormwater sites

the program, creating site plans and determining which trees will be ideal for each particular spot. The town will also not be liable for the success of the trees' growth or their maintenance.

“Trees are necessary, especially in an urban setting, for habitats for our birds and pollinators, for shade, and for stormwater runoff,” horticulture committee member Victoria Spice said at the February Berlin Mayor and Council meeting.

If property owners are interested in receiving services from the horticulture advisory group, they may

complete a form at https://forms.gle/CWHou7ZLoN4re 6Am9. If a property is picked, the team will select, purchase, and plant a native tree on it for free.

Site selection and planning of 10 total sites will occur this spring. The horticulture group will likely conduct the planting in the fall.

Spice said that the group would work with the homeowner to choose the type of trees. If the property owner or resident prefers a particular species or color, as long as it’s native, the planting may be tailored to that goal.

“[Tree planting] will bring a huge value to Berlin, not only to improve urban tree canopy cover, which we know reduces the temperature, so we can make Berlin more walkable and a more pleasant place to be a resident and a visitor,” Spice said. “It's also going to help with stormwater runoff that we really see as a problem in Berlin. And then obviously some of the other takeaways are that it will provide habitat and nesting for our birds and flowers for our pollinators.”

The grant is reimbursable. This means that project leaders can purchase

the necessary materials and invoice the nonprofit for the funds immediately.

The horticulture group is planning an outreach event for Berlin residents to meet with committee members and ask questions about the Keep Berlin Cool project. When determined, the date of the outreach event will be announced.

“That will just be a place where folks can come and learn about the program and potentially sign up, and/or if they just want to come and chat with us about their property and pick our brains about native plants, we are just thrilled to offer that service as well,” Spice said.

RESTAURANT WEEK MENU

BOURBON STREET ON THE BEACH

12601 Coastal Hwy. Ocean City, MD

443-664-2896

www.bourbonstreetonthebeach.com

• STARTER •

Char-Grilled O ysters

Bacon- Wrapped Scallops

Crab-Stuffed Mushroom Caps

Boudin Balls w/Remoulade sauce

Muffuletta Dip

• SOUP OR SALAD • Select either:

House salad, Caesar salad, or Spinach salad OR:

Gumbo, Red Beans & Rice, or Maryland Crab

• MAIN ENTREE •

• Bourbon Street Steak

(Served blackened w/Bourbon Mushroom Glaze)

• Lobster Ravioli w/ Crab Alfredo Sauce

• Chesapeake Chicken w/ Lump Crab (Served w/Mushrooms & Onions in an Old Bay Wine Sauce w/Mozzarella)

• Broiled Maryland Crab Cake (60z)

• Honey Bourbon Glazed Salmon

• Paella Jambalaya (Shrimp, Chicken, Andouille Sausage & Spicy Saffron Rice)

• Cochon de lait

(NOLA Pulled Pork served w/slaw & cornbread)

• DESSERT • Strawberry Shortcake Blueberry Crisp

Bread Pudding w/ Bourbon Carmalized Glaze Key Lime Pie|

3 FOR $35

Includes Starter, Soup or Salad, and Entree

4 for $40 Includes Dessert

Follow us on Facebook & Check Out Our Music Lineup!

Wed-Fri Open 3pm • Sat & Sun Open 12pm Live Music Daily

Restuarant Week Menu Available for Mother’s Day!

Best Beats On The Beach

Who’s Where When

BUXY’S SALTY DOG & DRY DOCK 28

410-289-BUXY

28th Street Coastal Hwy. Friday, May 2: Full Circle

CAPTAIN’S TABLE

410-289-7192

15th & Boardwalk In The Courtyard Marriott Fridays & Saturdays: Phil Perdue

COCONUTS BEACH BAR

410-289-6846

Oceanfront At Castle In The Sand Hotel 37th & 38th Streets Friday, May 2: Opposite Directions & Monkee Paw

Saturday, May 3: Kevin Poole & Joe Mama & Callum Toner Band

Sunday, May 4: Margot & Val & Rick & Regina

Monday, May 5: Fil Rhythm Duo

Tuesday, May 6: On The Edge First Tipsy Tuesday Of The Season Wednesday, May 7: True Country Thursday, May 8: Kevin Poole & Joe Mama

COINS PUB

410-289-3100

28th Street Plaza On Coastal Hwy. Friday, May 2: On The Edge Saturday, May 3: First Class

CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE 302-988-5000 37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54, Selbyville, DE Sunday, May 4: Uncle Ward Wednesday, May 7: Brian Bishop

CRAWL STREET TAVERN

443-373-2756

Wicomico St., Downtown O.C.

Friday, May 2: C Burch & The Noize

Saturday, May 3: Schizophrenic Boogiemen

FAGER’S ISLAND

410-524-5500

60th St., In The Bay

Friday, May 2:

33 RPM & DJ RobCee

Saturday, May 3:

Social Drinking & DJ Groove Monday, May 5: The Roadducks & DJ RobCee

DJ ROBCEE Fager’s Island: Friday, May 2 & Monday, May 5

DJ GROOVE Fager’s Island: Saturday, May 3

DJ BIGLER Harborside: Saturday, May 3

PHIL PERDUE Captain’s Table: Fridays & Saturdays

DJ BILLY T Harborside: Wednesday, May 7 & Fridays

BEATS BY WAX Seacrets: Monday, May 5 Pickles Pub: Tuesdays

UNCLE WARD Crabcake Factory Bayside: Sunday, May 4

CARLEY TWIGG Seacrets: Friday, May 2 & Thursday, May 8

DOC MARTEN & THE FLANNELS

Moose: Friday & Saturday, May 2 & 3

THE ROADDUCKS

Fager’s Island: Monday, May 5

STEAL THE SKY

Seacrets: Friday, May 2

THE DUNEHOUNDS

Harborside: Saturday, May 3 • 1pm

Pickles Pub: Saturday, May 3 • 9pm

Dry Dock 28: Friday, May 2

OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS

Coconuts Beach Bar: Friday, May 2

Harborside: Sunday, May 4

Who’s Where When

GREENE TURTLE WEST

410-213-1500

Route 611, West OC

Every Wednesday: Bingo w/ Blake

HARBORSIDE

410-213-1846

South Harbor Rd., West End O.C.

Fridays: DJ Billy T

Saturday, May 3: The Dunehounds & DJ Bigler

Sundays: Opposite Directions

Wednesday, May 7: DJ Billy T

Thursdays: Dust N Bones

PICKLES PUB

410-289-4891

8th St. & Philadelphia Ave.

Fridays, May 2:

Free State Country

Saturday, May 3: The Dunehounds

Sundays: Beats By Styler

Mondays: Karaoke w/ Wood

Tuesdays: Beats By Wax

Wednesdays:

Beats By Madame Dutchess

Thursdays: Beats By Connair

PURPLE MOOSE SALOON

410-289-6953

Between Caroline & Talbot Sts. On The Boards

Friday & Saturday, May 2 & 3: Doc Marten & The Flannels

Saturday, May 3:

The Keith & Ralph Duo • 2pm

Sunday, May 4:

Rogue Citizens Duo

SEACRETS

410-524-4900

49th St. & Coastal Hwy.

Friday, May 2: DJ E-State, DJ Davie, Carley Twigg & Steal The Sky

Saturday, May 3: The Whiskey Hickon Boys, DJ Connair, DJ C-Miller & The Wayouts

Sunday, May 4: DJ C-Miller

Monday, May 5: DJ Wax

Tuesday, May 6: DJ Davie

Wednesday, May 7: DJ E-State

Thursday, May 8: Carley Twigg & DJ C-Miller

Purple

MARGOT & VAL

Coconuts Beach Bar & Grill: Sunday, May 4

by Steve Green

TThe Adventures of Fatherhood

he early morning conversations are a bit rough with a teenager.

It’s awesome that Beckett, approaching his 17th birthday this month, now gets up on his own and has increased his independence. It’s significantly less cool that Beckett has also grown his grumpiness, at times, especially in the early morning hours.

Most mornings nowadays he greets me with a grunt and some semblance of ‘morning.’ He grabs breakfast and heads out of the kitchen in speedy fashion to clearly avoid any sort of deep conversation. I sort of giggle to myself because I long ago lost interest in mixing it up with him in the morning about anything of consequence. That is, until he is showered and more awake.

I try to keep things light and quick with him. He has his routine, and I have mine, so I let him go about his business most of the time. However, there are times when we need to talk about the day’s logistics, or I need to remind him of this or that.

The attitude that comes led me one day to say, “I promise you I did not wake up today with the intent on making your life miserable.” As he went back upstairs, he mumbled something, and I didn’t bother trying to gain clarity on what exactly it was he said. Chances are it was unpleasant, as I do believe there are times he thinks his mom and I enjoy mixing it up with him.

I know my son has a good heart and soul. As his dad, I see it and have known it his entire life. Fortunately, it’s confirmed by other folks who share conversations and situations with him I know nothing about.

I suppose this is the case for most parents, but there are times when I think parents see the worst side of

their teenagers. I have felt like this numerous times in recent months. I get it because we are their safe space. They can complain to us about things they can’t to others.

Pam has a good take on this airing of grievances. She feels he just needs to express himself, so he gets these issues out of his system. It’s a therapy session in some ways.

As we have parented through these different phases of life, a guilty pleasure of mine has been reading submissions on the website Grown and Flown. As Beckett looks at turning 17 years old soon, so much of what author Amy Keyes wrote about in the following piece hits home. Here’s a sampling:

The edge of 17 feels like the real turning point of youth. Where the pressures of the future begin to weigh down. The endless questions about life plans after high school. The standardized tests lurk around the corner. Prom waiting in the wings. One more summer before the wind blows him in a new direction. The beginning of the end of a journey that in so many ways feels like it just began.

I see my kid-on the edge of 17; equal parts teen and almost man. I watch him, from a close distance- but a distance all the same. Glimpses of a future I know is coming so quickly and that I will not be a part of every day anymore.

I find myself fading into the background as I peer over this edge of 17. Taking quick glances through the crack of his door as he studies the pile of work stacked on his desk. Making himself a quick dinner after a hard track workout or a night at a long shift. Searching for his car keys under piles of laundry that he’s too busy to put away.

All the while still grasping tightly to the last whispers of childhood. It’s a funny thing- this growing up business.

I feel like I was just at the edge of

17 myself. Living for the time when the future was my own, and at the same time not quite ready for it. I remember feeling so ready for the “what’s next,” and at the same time so unprepared to navigate it on my own. Wanting to be so grown, but not necessarily wanting to be a grown up. Looking through a telescope into the panorama of adulthood and wanting the small part that seemed so free. But not having the full lens for the whole picture. The edge of 17 is still learning how to do all the things, even when you feel like you have so much figured out already. How to make food. How to unclog toilets. How to manage a bank account. How to pay your rent. How to change a light bulb and a tire. How to remember to move laundry to the dryer without a reminder.

All the stuff that slowly turns our youth into adulthood.

The edge of 17 is ready to leave the nest with wings that are almost at full flutter. It’s the last set of training wheels before the cycle into the uncharted paths of adulthood. It’s both heartbreaking and full of hope.

I often sit in wonder and marvel at the fact that I am already a parent of a kid who is at the edge of 17. With a heart overflowing with all the emotion. Pondering how I’m ever going to be able to fully comprehend how he’s outgrown all of the 16 years of previous versions himself.

But here we are. On the edge of 17. In a few days the sun will set on 16, and rise to 17.

And though it will seem in the moment like just another Tuesday, I know that with it, will come the edge of adulthood.

(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.)

Spring waves can be solid but good wetsuit required

By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer

(May 2, 2025) If March and early April are typically transitional months for the average person, late April and May could become more transitional for the surfer.

With water temperatures lagging behind air temperatures the question of a lighter verses heavier wetsuit becomes an issue. With our area prone to fluctuations one could utilize almost every wetsuit piece available. In lieu of having a full wardrobe of wetsuits most surfers would tend to draw a line at some point.

Many factors are worthy of consideration. Water and air temps are obvious and foremost in thought. Other components could include wind direction and velocity, sunny or cloudy conditions, time of day, and amount of time spent in the water. Access to a warm area, post surf session, could come into play as well. The idea is to stay warm enough to at least have some fun and certainly to avoid hypothermia. One’s tolerance can be added to the list and the surfer’s monetary budget also becomes an ingredient.

Coverage of the head and neck can also be a good idea in keeping warm in the water. This idea even proves true on land. Most full wetsuits will have high neck protection but not all full suits have an attached hood. Whether connected to the suit or not a wetsuit cap or hood is a good call.

As far as making the transition from heavy to light an indicator for me has generally been the point when wetsuit gloves are no longer needed though, once again, this can vary for the individual and the atmospheric conditions.

At any rate, if an error is made, it’s probably best to err on the warm side. In the water the surfer can always allow more of that cold water into the wetsuit to cool off. Keeping the body warm will enhance performance, the experience, and even safety in the extreme. It’s easy to say that it’s better to be warm than cold.

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

vanishing vanishing OCEAN CITY

With Bunk Mann

In the days before cell phones and texting made communication so quick and easy, postcards were a popular way to stay in touch with the folks back home.

Many of the images of Ocean City from the early 20th century were originally published as post cards. They survive as an important historical record of how a small seasonal fishing village grew to become the major resort that exists today.

In the years following World War II, the comic postcard became a brief but popular fad and every gift shop along the Boardwalk carried a large selection. Most featured attractive young women in skimpy bathing suits pursued by an assortment of old, fat, semi-lecherous men. The comic postcard era ended in the mid-1950s but thousands of these cards were mailed from Ocean City while it lasted.

To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com. Postcard image from Bunk Mann’s collection

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

Taylor House Museum’s annual pig roast

A dog sleeping with a ball in its mouth

The Ravens’ history of drafting well

When a change proves to be what was needed

The ride to a little getaway

The ride home from a little getaway

Driving in silence

When a hearty salad fills me up

A surprisingly clean public restroom

Paula Lynch’s wit

When a menu provides tough choices

The champions of the OP Mixed Bowling League was the Osprey team, consisting of from left, Glenn Jacoby, Denise Stevens, Kathy Monaco and George Payne.

Ocean Pines Mixed Bowling League champions named

(May 2, 2025) There was a nail-biting ending to the OP Mixed Bowling League’s spring season.

On April 21, the championship rolloff was held at the Ocean Lanes Bowling Center. The competition was between the Monday Champions and the Tuesday Champions.

The Monday Champions were the Ospreys with team members Glenn Jacoby, Kathy Monaco, George Payne and Denise Stevens.

The Tuesday Champions were the Seagulls with team members Donny Spahn, Alan Wildt, Donna Wildt and Cathy Willis.

The Ospreys became the official league champions, winning the best

two of three games.

The league will begin its next season in late September. A kickoff meeting will be held on Monday, Aug. 25, at 1 p.m. in the Ocean Pines Community Center. Current and prospective members are welcome to attend.

The league has been active for 25plus years. This year there were 24 teams divided between Monday and Tuesday. The games start at 1 p.m. It is a mixed league with four people on each team. There’s lots of fun to be had and friends to be made for anyone who would like to join. Interested individuals should contact Barbara Harman at 301-980-7798 for more information.

JUST LISTED - 3 BR, 2 BA SINGLE-LEVEL HOME

Beautifully maintained, freshly painted & move-in ready. Single-level floorplan with fireplace, sunroom & hot tub. Spacious primary suite. 2-car garage with plenty of storage. Exclusive access to Parke amenities: indoor pool, fitness center & sauna, clubhouse & recreational activities. Minutes to Ocean City beaches. Ocean Pines award-winning golf course, pickleball & tennis courts, 2 marinas, indoor & outdoor pools & more! Relax, socialize, or stay active - this home puts it all within reach. Low-maintenance living in amenity-rich neighborhood! $439,000

Free screenings offered

TidalHealth is hosting free skin screenings in Ocean Pines and Seaford. Early detection of skin issues can make a big difference. Plus, you’ll get professional advice from licensed dermatologists or nurse practitioners, giving you peace of mind for you and your loved ones. These events are for people who do not currently have a dermatologist.

The free local screening is planned for Wednesday, May 7 from 4-6 p.m. at TidalHealth Richard A. Henson Cancer Institute, Ocean Pines.

Screenings will be provided by Dr. Sara Moghaddam, board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon. No need to schedule in advance; screenings will be provided first-come, first-served.

Museum admission day

The new Museum of Ocean City on Baltimore Avenue will be offering free admission on Sunday, May 18, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

International Museum Day has celebrated the importance of museums since 1977, recognized and organized by the International Council of Museums.

At the Museum of Ocean City, visitors will see the following exhibits: The Assateague’s and their Landscape, Hotel and Restaurant Exhibit, Downtown

Ocean City Historic People and Places Exhibit.

The Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum at the Inlet will be closed due to Boardwalk Rock.

Mural planning begins

The Beach to Bay Heritage Area will be hosting a community planning meeting for a new public mural in the downtown of Pocomoke City on Wednesday, May 6 at 5 p.m. at the Delmarva Discovery Museum.

The theme of the mural will be based on the town’s Native American namesake. Assistance and guidance will be offered by the Pocomoke Indian Nation. Community engagement will help determine themes, content and location of the mural.

According to the Americans for the Arts, murals enrich a city’s landscape by adding personality and character. They invite conversation and make communities feel welcoming by creating a unique environment for locals and visitors.

“We have seen a trend across the country in both rural towns and urban cities that murals are becoming more and more a way of expressing our heritage, our stories,” said Lisa Challenger, executive director of the Beach to Bay Heritage Area.

All interested members of the community are invited to attend this first planning session. Community planning

sessions are free and refreshments will be provided. Funding for the project has been provided by the Maryland State Arts Council.

Ravens golf tourney

Ocean City Ravens Roost #44 will hold its 28th Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament on Friday, May 30 at the Ocean Pines Golf Club. All proceeds from this tournament go directly to the Ravens Roost #44 scholarship fund. This year six $2,000 scholarships will be given to students graduating in 2025 from three local high schools (Indian River High, Stephen Decatur High

and Worcester Preparatory schools). With the inclusion of this year’s scholarships, Ravens Roost #44 will have awarded $270,900 in scholarships to local students from the three high schools.

There are various ways to support the tournament. Ravens Roost #44 is looking for both golfers and sponsors for the tournament. The Roost would not be able to provide these scholarships to local high school students without the generosity and support of the golf tournament from the community. For registration and sponsor level information, click over to ocravensroost44.com.

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, there’s a secret that you have been holding on to and you are ready to let it go. It won’t weigh you down anymore and you can finally focus fully on the future instead of the past.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, certain ground is tough for people to travel, but you have conviction and grit to get things done. You have a history of thriving when faced with adversity, and that’s an asset.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, keep an eye open for a challenge. When you are given an opportunity that will require for fullest and best effort, embrace it as an opportunity to fulfill your potential.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, keeping things pleasant and lighthearted is a talent of yours, but this week you might need to take a new approach. Work with others and listen to suggestions.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, you often are the life of the party, always ready to find something to do and be with other people. This week you might need to slow down and enjoy some alone time.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, you could be especially energized this week and feel the need to get as much done as possible. Try not to race through tasks without focusing on doing things right.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

The news that comes your way isn’t what you had hoped, Libra. Roll with the punches and embrace the challenge. Soon there will be blue skies again and everything will settle.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, you will meet up with someone you haven’t seen in a while and it will be like no time has passed whatsoever. Be prepared for a coincidental situation to bring you together.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

The universe will put you in touch with someone who is reputable and diligent, Sagittarius. This way you can both tackle what you need to get done reap the rewards of your hard work.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, a little competition never hurt anyone. Embrace an upcoming chance to see how you stack up. Give your best effort, as always.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

This is a good week to play things safe and keep your cards close to the vest, Aquarius. Consider each situation carefully before engaging.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, you are a sociable person and ready and willing to chat up others. This week you might not be up for any social interaction and prefer a few days of solitary time spent.

ART HONOR SOCIETY

As part of the Worcester Preparatory April Honor Society

tional Art Honor Society recognizes students who have shown outstanding ability in art,

and upper school art teacher George Zaiser, inductees Catherine Cullen, Sydney Mize, Avery Roselle, Emily

upper school technology teacher Nancy Raskauskas; second row, students Nathan Montague, Ayla Yonker, Emily

Bontempo and Owen West; and, back, students Dillon Scopp, Ryan Mann, Lucas Nicastro, Allen Zhang and

Kimbrew and Andrew McCormick.

THESPIANS RECOGNIZED

As part of the Worcester Preparatory April Honor Society Inductions, 12 students were inducted to the WPS chapter of the

Society, The International Thespian Society is the Educational Theatre Association’s student honorary organization to recognize high school students achievement in Theatre. Pictured, front from left, are students Sydney Todorov, Lena Parker, Emily Patrowicz, Olivia Owens and Jamie Nguyen; second row, students Ayla Yonker, Catherine Cullen, Renata Lovitt and Anisha Batra; and, back, drama director Paulette DeRosa-Matrona,

Batra, Joshua Greulich and music director Christopher Buzby.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

inductions,18 students were inducted to the National Art Honor Society on April 10. The Na-

character and service. Pictured, front from left, are middle

Patrowicz, Quinn Solloway and middle and

Ferguson, Olivia Owens, Samantha

Grant Crothers. Not pictured were Jennifer

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

International Thespian

Jake Timmons, Ansh

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, 25:30 p.m. Sunday’s early bird specials, all day and all night. Happy Hour; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. with food and drink specials. Open Monday through Friday, 2 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 11:30 a.m. Dine-in, carry out.

■ CORAL REEF RESTAURANT & BAR

17th Street in the Holiday Inn & Suites, Ocean City 410-289-2612, coralreefrestaurant.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Enjoy traditional Eastern Shore cuisine and local favorites that are sure to please your entire party! Choose from a selection of house specialty entrees such as sharables, handhelds and seafood. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Featuring specialty rums. Open daily, 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

■ CRAWL STREET

19 Wicomico St., Ocean City, 443-373-2756, crawlstreet.com

Established in 2020 just a short walk from the legendary Cork Bar. Don’t leave without trying the famous wings, but everything on the menu is solid, including flatbreads, tacos, salads, sandwiches and seafood platters. Be sure to check out the live music offerings as the nightlife is top of the line.

■ DISTRICT 24 CRAFT BAR, JAY’S CAFÉ & BLU CRABHOUSE & RAW BAR

2305 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City 410-2893322, district24oc.com

There is more at District 24. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, pastries and coffee at Jay’s Cafe. CRAFT Pizza, Beer & Cocktails at CRAFT Lounge. Fresh Seafood at BLU Crabhouse & Raw Bar. Enjoy an elevated dining experience with great chophouse dishes and charcuterie boards, along with a Wine Spectator Award Wining Wine Menu at Embers Rooftop Restaurant. There is something for everyone at District 24 like live music in the courtyard, mini golf, arcade play and axe throwing.

■ FISH TALES

2107 Herring Way, Ocean City, 410-289-0990, ocfishtales.com

Bayfront marina dining offered here with a huge menu to satisfy guests of all ages. Enjoy a drink from a hanging chair or fish tacos at your table while the kids play in a playground build in the sand. Food and drink menus offer enough of a variety to meet all needs.

■ HARBOR WATCH

806 S. Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City 410-2895121, www.harborwatchrestaurant.com

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

Celebrating our 40th anniversary with fresh seafood, an award-winning raw bar, mouthwater-

ing steaks and the best view of the Ocean City Inlet and Assateague Island. Open all March, Thursday through Sunday; 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, 410-2894891, picklesoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Easy to find with plenty of free parking, serving lunch, dinner and entire diverse menu until 1 a.m. Also nightly entertainment year-round 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. Familyfriendly atmospheres at both locations. Weekend entertainment.

MIDTOWN

29th to 90th streets

■ 32 PALM 32nd Street in The Hilton, Ocean City 410-2892525, 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, 410-5247171, 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.

■ COCONUTS BEACH BAR & GRILL

3701 Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 410-289-6846, castleinthesand.com

A tropical open-air patio steps from the beach. A unique place for lunch or dinner with a menu featuring all the customary items and a few Ocean City-based surprises. Guests can also enjoy beach service for lunch and cocktails. Be sure to check out the daily entertainment schedule.

■ FAGERS ISLAND

201 60th St., Ocean City, 410-524-5500, fagers.com

$$ | Full bar

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

■ HOOKED

8003 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410-7234665, hookedoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

A Common Ground Hospitality concept, a passion driven restaurant group servicing the coastal community. The goal is honor creativity and innovation by design. With passion at the heart of everything, unique dining concepts are paired with honest hospitality and 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, 443-6645693, longboardcafe.com

$$-$$$ | Full bar

Casual Dining … Refined. Open for lunch and dinner. A wide range of gourmet burgers, innova-

tive 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, 410-2502000, albertinosoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Featuring the best brick oven pizza, always handmade with fresh ingredients, Italian-American mouth-watering seafood specialties, traditional Italian pasta dishes, apps, soups and salads. Full bar with large local craft beer selection.

■ CAROUSEL OCEANFRONT HOTEL & CONDOS 118th Street, Ocean City 800-641-0011, www.carouselhotel.com

The Carousel Oceanfront Resort offers a family friendly casual dining experience with their Reef 118 restaurant. Offering dinner Thursday through Saturday from 5-9 p.m., featuring AYCE Crab legs. Serving breakfast on Fridays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. Their new "Go for 2" happy hour features $10 appetizers as a buy one get one free. $1 oysters during all open hours.

■ THE CRAB BAG

13005 Coastal Highway Ocean City, 410-2503337, 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, 410-2504900, crabcakefactoryusa.com

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

■ VISTA ROOFTOP RESTAURANT

13801 Coastal Highway, located in the Fenwick Inn, Ocean City, 410-390-7905, vistarooftopoc.com

$$-$$$ | Full bar

Enjoy a wonderful meal overlooking the ocean and bay. Some of the most unique views in Ocean City. Steaks, seafood, burgers, soups, salads and lite fare. Happy hour, 3-6 p.m. New this year is a boozy brunch Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Live music.

FENWICK ISLAND

■ CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE

Route 54, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-988-5000, CCFBayside.com

Same award-winning crab cakes and bloody

marys. Enjoy waterfront dining. Full-service family restaurant, carry-out & sports bar. Outside seating available. Open daily year-round. Menu selections include crab cakes, prime rib, Philly-style cheese steaks, various seafood, kids menu plus full breakfast menu.

■ DIRTY HARRY’S

100 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island, DE, 302539-3020, Beach-net.com/dirtyharrys

$ | Kids’ Menu | Full bar

Don’t let the name fool you, the food is home cooking at its finest. Owned and operated by Ginny Swann and family for 19 years. Popular for the breakfast but getting rave reviews for lunch and dinner, too.

■ NANTUCKETS

Route 1, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-539-2607, nantucketsrestaurant.com

Serving the beach great food and spirits for over 30 years. David and Janet Twining will wow you with the finest foods and drinks in the area. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by what one of the coast’s finest dining establishments has in store for guests. Everything here is a house specialty.

■ TWINING’S LOBSTER SHANTY Rte. 54, Fenwick Island, Del., 302-436-2305, twiningshanty.com

Reservations | Kids’ Menu

“A funky little place at the edge of town.” Classic New England fare, lobsters, steaks and burgers. Bird watching and magical sunsets await. Open for lunch and dinner. Reservations are suggested.

WEST OCEAN CITY

■ 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 daily at 11 a.m. Serving food until 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Bar open til 11 p.m.

■ 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 49th and 124th streets locations offer vast lunch and dinner menus (breakfast too at 124th) 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 80seat 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, 410-2131846, 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.

■ OC DINER 12744 Ocean Gateway, Rt 50 east, West Ocean City, 410-390-5112

Best homemade breakfast and lunch. Local’s favorite breakfast served all day. Kids’ menu. Dinein and carry-out. Open 7 days a week, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Grilled lamb lollipops, gastrique

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer

(May 2, 2025) How does one define the term “wealth?”

If you base your answer on monetary funds, I would be considered one of modest means.

But prosperity is not a definitive term and can be experienced in many ways.

As the clock of wisdom progresses, I realize I am rich in my own right and reap from the serenity of the Eastern Shore. Gentle breezes hum my favorite tune as tranquility permeates the sandy shores with never-ending pride.

My small house on the water has a large deck with a collection of grills. A smoker, charcoal grills, and gas grills gives me many options. The aroma of smokiness christens the neighborhood with a mouth-watering trail of goodness.

It takes years to master the art of grilling; it’s not easy to handle a glass of wine in one hand and tongs in the other.

That being said, grilled dishes are popular and easy to make. However, predictability will not ascertain originality and does not equate memorable occasions.

The daily culinary journey of exploration determines perfection. In addition, mastery of details is the foundation for a cook’s potential success and individuality. Experience is the true teacher, and there is nothing that can replace this basic concept.

Grilled lamb lollipops with a black cherry gastrique constitutes creativity with a drizzle of simplicity. Let us deconstruct this recipe so comprehension can come to the forefront.

Lamb has a natural flavor of its own and marinades enhance the very essence of the meat. Olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper are all your need for a fantastic bite.

Grilling is the next issue at hand. Generally speaking, most recipes call for the rack of lamb to be cut into individual lollipops. The issue with this is the lollipops are thin and a nice sear on the fat side is a must. Overcooking can become an issue.

To avoid this problem, the lollipops must be lined up against each other, fat side down to get the fat crispy. If you are not experienced in grilling, this may not be your best option.

Some might find it is easier to grill the entire rack. This way you can easily obtain the coveted char on the fat side and at the same time do not overcook the protein. Allow rack to cool for at least 10 minutes, then slice into individual lollipops.

Gastrique is a simple yet versatile sauce, often used to add a sweet and tart flavor to various dishes. They are generally made with fruits and are a fun way to add depth and complexity to a dish. The sugar is caramelized and then deglazed with vinegar to create a syrup-like reduction. Gastriques are a year-round option when planning one’s menu. Summer is

around the corner and fresh fruits will be in abundance. But dried or frozen fruits work well since the mixture will be cooked and reduced.

When plating, think of yourself as a Picasso and drizzle the gastrique on the serving platter or individual plates for a fantastic presentation.

In closing, grilled proteins and gastriques are a perfect pairing. Grilled lamb lollipops with a black cherry gastrique are a delightful, artistic way to wow your guests. Enjoy.

Black Cherry Gastrique

2 cups fresh pitted cherries, frozen, or dried cherries

¾ cup brown sugar, packed ½ cup dry red wine

½ cup black cherry balsamic vinegar

1 teaspoon ground ginger

kosher salt to taste

1. In a small saucepan, over medium heat, combine all of the ingredients. Reduce mixture by half.

2. Using a hand-held immersion blender, puree mixture until smooth.

Grilled Lamb Lollipops

1 rack of lamb, whole or cut into individual lollipops

2 teaspoons ground garlic

1 teaspoon crushed, dried rosemary kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste ¾ cup extra-virgin olive oil

1. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

2. Place all ingredients in a large Ziploc bag and marinate for 1 hour.

3. Heat grill to high, and grill to desired temperature. Place on cooling

rackto stop the cooking process. Spoon on some of the reserved olive oil mixtureonto the lamb lollipops.

* Based on four guests, one rack of lamb for an appetizer, two racks of lamb for an entrée.

* Black cherry vinegar can be purchased through Amazon.

Secret Ingredient – Sweetness

For a menu to come together, you have to have Sweetness, saltiness, crunchiness…it’s all about balance.

— Dominique Crenn

COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

LIONS SUPPORT DIAKONIA

The OC Lions continued their ongoing support of Diakonia with a recent donation. Diakonia provides shelter, food, clothing and program services for homeless men, women, families and veterans across the lower shore tri-county area. Pictured, from left, are OC Lions President Scott Stark, Diakonia Executive Director Ken Argot and Lion J.D. Quillin.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH 4STEPS DONATION

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City donated $2,500 to the local Therapeutic Riding Program 4STEPS. Pictured, from left, are Maribeth and Linda holding the check for 4STEPS with Kiwanis Club volunteer Kitty Wrench and 4STEPS founder Sandy Winter who established the organization in 2002 in Parsonsburg. 4STEPS Therapeutic Riding Center is a 501c3 non-profit organization and its mission is to enhance and enrich the lives of children and adults with disabilities and active military, veterans and first responders by providing therapeutic horseback riding and equine assisted activities.

NEW MEMBERS INDUCTED

SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

The Rotary Club of Snow Hill announced the 2025 scholarship recipients from Snow Hill High School at the April 23 Teachers of the Year banquet. Pictured, from left, are Lou Taylor, Worcester County Superintendent of Schools; Chloe Hoffler, recipient of a Larry Knudsen Service Scholarship, Mary Ann Rutzler, recipient of a Larry Knudsen Service Scholarship; Abby Gaskill, recipient of the Laurel Anderson Nursing Scholarship; and Diana Nolte, Snow Hill Rotary president. Anderson was a longtime Rotary Club member and nurse. Knudsen is fondly remembered as an advocate for children and a proponent of community service.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

TEACHERS RECOGNIZED

The Rotary Club of Snow Hill held a ceremony on April 23 at the Worcester County Technical High School celebrating the recipients of the 2025 Teacher of the Year honors at area schools. Pictured are Snow Hill Rotary President Diana Nolte, Snow Hill High School honoree Christina Kozlowski, Cedar Chapel Special School honoree Patricia Solomon, Snow Hill Middle School honoree Heather Shockley, Worcester County Technical High School honoree Phillip Cropper, Snow Hill Elementary School honoree Shelby Matassa and Louis Taylor, Worcester County Superintendent of Schools.

MUSEUM SUPPORT

Christine Okerblom

the

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

SUBMITTED

Five new members of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City were inducted at the April 23 meeting. Pictured, from left, are Sponsor Jim Spicknall, Matthew Stensland (sponsor Diane Sparzak, not pictured), Seth Thatcher (sponsored by Jim Spicknall), Maddie Pettolina and Arthur Thomas (both sponsored by Tom Southwell),Terri Ulman (sponsored by Jim Ulman), Kiwanis Club President Tom Southwell and Jim Ulman.

Curator

recently spoke to

OC Lions about the Life Saving Station Museum and the new Museum of Ocean City located in the former Bank of Ocean City. Pictured, from left, are Ocean City Lions President Scott Stark, Vice President of the OC Museum Society Michael Maykrantz, Okerblom and Lion JD Quillin.

Berlin museum celebrates Dr. Humphreys Arboretum

(May 2, 2025) The Calvin B. Taylor House Museum last Sunday celebrated the official designation of its grounds as the Dr. Mary Humphreys Arboretum.

The designation makes the lawn of the museum, which contains several significant trees, the first arboretum in Worcester County.

The arboretum’s new signage was celebrated at the beginning of the third annual pig roast on Sunday, April 27. The event, sponsored by Burley Building Company, featured brews from the Berlin Beer Company and live music.

The official sign designating the Taylor House as an arboretum allows the public to see a variety of trees.

Dr. Mary Humphreys, who lived on Baker Street before her passing in 2009, was dedicated to science and an early backer and researcher for the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum. The arboretum’s namesake also founded the Humphreys Foundation to offer financial aid to local charities, schools, and nonprofits.

“Humphreys was one of [the museum’s] earliest supporters,” Taylor House Museum President Melissa Reid said in a recent interview. “She was a very noted historian in Berlin and was integral in founding the museum. Because of her biology connection, we felt it was appropriate [the arboretum] to be named after her.”

The arboretum was officially announced in 2022, making the Taylor House the first property in Worcester County to carry the classification. The facility’s lawn contains many significant trees, notably a sycamore called “The Healing Tree.”

Reid and Berlin Council members

Steve Green, Shaneka Nichols and Jack Orris officially unveiled new signage on the property detailing the arboretum designation.

PHOTO COURTESY LISA COOK

Pictured, from left, after an unveiling of the official Dr. Mary Humphreys Arboretum signage at the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum are Council members Jack Orris and Shaneka Nichols, Museum President Melissa Reid and Councilman Steve Green.

Calendar

Fri., May 2

35TH ANNUAL CRUISIN’ OCEAN CITY

Hugh T. Cropper Inlet Parking Lot, 809 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Featuring more than 3,000 hot rods, customs, classics and trucks; music; celebrities; and more. Tickets: https://specialeventpro.com/cruisinocean-city. infoevent@specialeventpro.com, 410798-6304

REND COLLECTIVE FOLK! TOUR

OC Performing Arts Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, 7-9:30 p.m. A celebration of joy, community, faith and authentic connection. Tickets cost $29.25, $46.20 and $77.35. Tickets: https://echoconcerts.com. Info: 612217-0151, ticketsupport@echoconcerts.com.

COFFEE WITH COPS CAR SHOW

Jay’s Cafe & Trading Co., 2305 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 9-11 a.m. Come meet Ocean City police officers, check out an awesome lineup of cars, or even show off your own wheels in the competition. For the whole family.

FREE COMIC BOOK DAY

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Drop by to pick up a free comic book and design your own. While supplies last. For ages 6-18 years. 410-6323495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

OC MAHJONG CLUB

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

SURVIVAL SPANISH: SER

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Learn how to say some basic phrases in Spanish. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

KIGHTS OF COLUMBUS BINGO

Fridays - Knights of Columbus, 9901 Coastal Highway, behind St. Luke’s Church. Doors open at 5 p.m., bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. Light snacks available before bingo and at intermission. 410524-7994

WINGS AND FRIES OR SHRIMP AND FRIES CARRYOUT

Bishopville Volunteer Fire Department, 10709 Bishopville Road, 5-7 p.m. Chicken wings (hot and mild) and fries or shrimp poppers and fries. Cost is $10 per choice. Pre-orders by April 30: 443880-4944.

FIRST FRIDAY FOR MAY EXHIBITS

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St.,

5-7 p.m. Meet the artists, enjoy hors d’oeuvres and see the new exhibits by a variety of local artists. Free event. All are welcome. https://artleagueofoceancity.org, 410524-9433

Sat., May 3

35TH ANNUAL CRUISIN’ OCEAN CITY

Hugh T. Cropper Inlet Parking Lot, 809 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Featuring more than 3,000 hot rods, customs, classics and trucks; music; celebrities; and more. Tickets: https://specialeventpro.com/cruisinocean-city. infoevent@specialeventpro.com, 410798-6304

COLONIAL VILLAGE COMMUNITY YARD SALE

Colonial Village at Mumford’s Landing, Ocean Pines, 8 a.m.-noon. There will be clothes, tools, games, furniture, home decor and more. Rain date is May 4.

FLEA MARKET AND BAKE SALE

Bethany United Methodist Church, 8648 Stephen Decatur Highway, Berlin, 8-11 a.m. The event will be held outdoors. Vendors, to reserve space: 443641-2186, bethany21811@gmail.com.

SAFE BOATING COURSE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. State mandated Recreational Safe Boating Course. Cost is $20. Register: Barry Cohen, 410-935-4807, CGAUXOC@gmail.com.

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

MAY THE 4TH

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Join in for fun in a library far, far away. For ages 0-11 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

CAR MAINTENANCE AND EMERGENCY ROADSIDE KITS

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 10:30-11:30 a.m. Covers basic car maintenance and how to prepare an emergency kit. For ages 12-18 years. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

2025 ANNUAL CHARLIE MAC OPEN CHARITY. GOLF TOURNAMENT

Schumaker Park, 1019 S. Schumaker Drive, Salisbury, 12-5 p.m. United Needs and Abilities’ 2nd Annual Disc Golf Tournament. Cost is $100 for teams of

two and $50 for individual sign ups. RSVP: 410-543-0665. Info: hgrudis@UNA1.org.

FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 9 a.m. to noon. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods. Open to the public.

Sun. May 4

35TH ANNUAL CRUISIN’ OCEAN CITY

Hugh T. Cropper Inlet Parking Lot, 809 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Featuring more than 3,000 hot rods, customs, classics and trucks; music; celebrities; and more. Tickets: https://specialeventpro.com/cruisinocean-city. infoevent@specialeventpro.com, 410798-6304

BERLIN FARMERS MARKET OPENING DAY

Historic Downtown Berlin, 124 N. Main St., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Featuring 50+ farmers, food cultivators, bakers, distillers, seafood, meat and so much more. Also petting zoo (9-11 a.m.) and live music. Shops open early. Rain or shine. TheBerlinFarmersMarket.com

CELEBRATION OF A VISITATION BY BISHOP

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 3 Church St., Berlin. The church is having one service at 9:30 a.m. followed by a pot luck reception. This visitation to the church will be the last for Bishop Marray before his retirement later this year.

BERLIN FLEA MARKET

Sundays - Uptown Emporium Parking Lot, 13 S. Main St., Berlin, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Vendor opportunities available. Julie, 410-726-9012; Bill, 410-629-9656

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 5

STORY TIME: TRANSPORTATION

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, www.worcesterlibrary.org

QIGONG & TAI CHI FORMS

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. A meditation and movie practice to activate Chi (life-force energy) in the body.

Safe, slow moves to improve balance and dexterity. Great for beginners. A five-week course. 410-208-4014

ESL CONVERSATION CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Join other non-native English speakers for casual conversation practice and a short lesson prepared by an ESL instructor. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

GREAT BOOKS DISCUSSION

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2:30 p.m. The group meets twice a month to discuss selections from the Great Books Foundation. Today the group will focus on “Holy Week” by Deborah Eisenberg. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP

John H. “Jack” Burbage, Jr. Regional Cancer Care Center, 9707 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3-4 p.m. Families, partners and other caregivers share similar challenges and rewards of providing care for adults who have any type of serious illness. Nicole Fry, nfry@atlanticgeneral.org, 410-641-2626

CITIZEN RESEARCH PRESENTATIONS

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 3 p.m. Share your local history research projects and learn from other citizen researchers. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

WARHAMMER

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4 p.m. Use the library’s armies or bring your own. Tutorials and demos will be available, so novice and veteran players alike are welcome. For ages 12-18 years. 410-6410650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

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. Adult assistance needed for younger children. For ages 6-18 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

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

Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 5-6:30 p.m. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a weekly support and educational group promoting weight loss and living a healthy lifestyle. Rose Campion, 410641-0157

MERMAID LORE: THEN AND NOW

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5:30 p.m. Professional mermaid Tasha Haight weaves a tale about the mythol-

ogy surrounding mermaids and sirens. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BRIDGE

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

DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS

Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6:00-8:00 p.m. All ladies who love to sing invited. Mary, 410-629-9383 or Carol, 302-2427062.

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 6

STORY TIME AT CYPRESS PARK

Cypress Park, 7 Bridge St., Pocomoke City, 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and outside play. For ages 0-5 years. 410-9570878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

STORY TIME

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Story time geared for ages 0-5 years featuring seasonal themes designed to support early literacy skills with stories, songs and finger plays. 410-641-0650, www.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. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

OC KNITTING GROUP

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

MASTER GARDENERS PLANT CLINIC

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m.

Master Gardener Ginny Rosenkranz talks about all things plants. Bring questions and feel free to show your plants as well. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

WATERCOLOR BASICS

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Artist Jan Coulbourne teaches this class about creating a piece of watercolor art. Registration required: 410-524-1818. www.worcesterlibrary.org

MOTHER’S DAY AFTERNOON TEA

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2:30 p.m. Celebrate Mother’s Day with your special someone. Join in for light refresh-

ments and crafts. For families. Registration required: 410-208-4014. www.worcesterlibrary.org

COMIC BOOK CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30 p.m. Learn about comics and create your own. No experience required. For ages 6-11 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

MILLENNIAL-ISH: GAME NIGHT

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 5:30 p.m. Join the library and others in their ’20s-’40s to play board, card and switch games. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

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. 410289-4725

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 7

PUZZLE SWAP

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 1-5 p.m. Bring your gently used puzzle and leave with a new-to-you puzzle. Don’t have a puzzle but still want one? That’s OK too. Puzzles must be in their oringal box.

410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

PAINT & SIP

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 6-8 p.m. Cost is $27 and includes wine and crackers. Must be at least 18 years or older to participate. Register: 410-641-7052.

BARIATRIC SUPPORT GROUP

Meets the first and second Wednesday of each month. For non-surgical patients. Atlantic General Bariatric Center, 410-641-9568

COMPUTER AND INTERNET BASICS

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St. Call to make an appointment for one-n-one assistance. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BEADED BRACELETS FOR MOM

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Drop by and make a beaded bracelet. Great Mother’s Day gift. Limited to 2 per person. For ages 6-18 years. 410-9570878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Group provides discussion and education on the topic of diabetes. Patti Yocubik, 410-208-9761, pyocubik@atlanticgeneral.org

CHAIR YOGA

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Certified yoga instructor, Nicole Long, teaches this class that stretches and strengthens in a gentle manner. 410641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

PAJAMA STORY TIME

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 6:30 p.m. Wear pajamas and bring a stuffie to snuggle while you enjoy stories and songs to wind down to bed time. For families. 410-641-0650, www.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.

Thurs., May 8

150TH ANNIVERSARY HISTORIC WALKING TOUR - OCEAN CITY, MD

Ocean City Life-Saving Museum, 813 S. Atlantic Ave., 2-4 p.m. Walk through time and learn about the women who started Ocean City. Happy Hour from 46 p.m. Register: https://web.mdtourism.org/events/OceanCity%20150t h%20Anniversary%20Walking%20Tour -1730/details.

STORY TIME: MOTHER’S DAY

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Celebrate all the special women in your life with songs, dancing and crafts. For ages 2-5 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

STORY TIME ‘ONE RED SOCK’

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

BINGO

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Join in for a lively game of Bingo and win fun prizes. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

JEOPARDY AFTER HOURS: 60’S MUSIC

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5 p.m. Adult program to enjoy a night of trivia, music and light refreshments. 410-6323495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

ONGOING EVENTS

BUS TRIP TO CAMDEN YARDS

Baltimore Orioles vs. Washington Nationals, May 18. Pick up at 8:30 a.m. at Ocean Pines Community Center. Game time is 1:35 p.m. Cost is $120 and includes transportation, seats in the picnic perch (Section 286) and all-you-can-eat food until the 7th inning. Tickets: Ocean Pines Recreation & Parks, 410-641-7052.

NEW YORK CITY IN THE SPRING

Spend the day exploring the Big Apple on your own. Departing May 10 at 5:30 a.m. from the Ocean Pines Community Center. Time in New York City will be from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Reservations: 410-641-7052. Cost is $85 for transportation only.

BUS TRIP TO THE BARNES FOUNDATION IN PHILADELPHIA, PA

Departing from the Acme parking lot on 94th Street in Ocean City, May 15 at 8:30 a.m. Returning at approximately 7:30 p.m. Cost is $95 for Art League of Ocean City members and $115 for nonmembers. Tickets: https://canvas.artleagueofoceancity.org /classes/2323. 410-524-9433, megan@artleagueofoceancity.org

Crossword answers from page 50

58 OC Today-Dispatch

MARKETPLACE

BOAT YARD

Person to paint boat bottoms and cut grass at WOC boat yard. Call 410-213-2296.

Seasonal Help Needed in mornings for a bed and breakfast in Snow Hill. Contact us at innkeeper@ riverhouseinn.com

Rick’s Market Wages based on experience and position. Stocker, Cashier, Meat Cutter, Receiving Manager, Deli Crew, Deli Manager. Please call: 410-629-1570.

SPEEDWORLD Small Engine Mechanic. Year-round. Wage starts at $15/hr & up based on experience. Benefits available. 443-754-1047

MARINE MECHANIC needed at WOC boat yard. Call 410-213-2296.

NOW HIRING!

DELIVERY DRIVER for OC, MD Pay $15/hr. + meal plan & uniform. (Avg. tips $15-$20/hr. extra, tips paid out nightly!) Call 443-880-2486 or apply within 56th Street.

CLEANERS WANTED

Vacation rental cleaners needed for OC and The Pines. Exp. preferred, but not required. OC PURIFIERS. Call or text 443-397-1189 or email Karen@ocpurifiers.com

AMERICAN LEGION

2 Line Cooks, experience required. Part-time. Apply at Post, 2308 Philadelphia Avenue or call for information at 410-289-3166

JOHNNY’S PIZZA NOW HIRING!

DELIVERY DRIVER

Call 443-880-2486 or apply within 56th Street

Contact Our Office at 410-352-9800

Small seasonal boutique Oceanfront Hotel in Ocean City has the following jobs available: Desk Clerks with reservation computer program experience needed for both the 1st shift and 2nd shifts. Daytime Housekeepers Apply online at info@ocbreakers.com or call 410-289-9165 Monday-Friday, 9am-4pm.

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Storefront Travel Agency Administrative Assistant with excellent organizational, computer, people, creative skills, and the ability to learn a variety of systems. Must be knowledgeable in creating spreadsheets & flyers. Position is Monday thru Friday with some weekends. Send resume to: info@travelwithoasis.com No phone calls.

SUMMER BAYSIDE CONDO near Jolly Rogers. 2BR, 2BA, W/D, A/C, Wi-Fi, fully furnished. Sleeps 4-6. 2 units available. May-Sept. Call Mike at 410-603-6120. www.mbjcproperties.com

WATERFRONT BAYSIDE

Newly remodeled 2BR, 2BA Condo in North OC. Full kitchen, LR, DR, W/D, balcony for sunsets. Perfect for crabbing, fishing, kayaking. 10 min. walk to beach. Weekly summer rentals & long term seasonal Nov.-May. Contact Julie, 443-223-4623

Seeking YR & Seasonal Rentals! Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555.

YEAR-ROUND RENTAL

3BR, 2BA

1,418 sq. ft. parking included. Central HVAC. $2,150/mo. + utils. 438 Ocean Parkway, OP 410-456-0272

AVAILABLE

SUMMER RENTAL

4 months, Starting 5/22

Large Condo South Ocean City In interested, please call 410-294-1028 Thanks!

YEAR-ROUND RENTAL

1BR, 1BA W/D, 1 block from Casino, 2 people max. $1,200/mo. + sec. dep. & elec. Call Steve & leave msg., 410-251-3412

YR RENTAL

1BR, 1 BA, kitchen, W/D, unfurnished. 2 adults. $1500 per mo. + utils. & sec. dep. Call Jean 410-524-0990 before 2 p.m.

HOUSESHARE House to share in Ocean Pines. Fully furnished, all utilities & WiFi included. No pets, no smoking.

Commercial Space for Lease.

2-3 Units available, can be divided or joined. Approx. 800-1000 sq. ft. ea. Busy major road in Town of Berlin. Call 443-880-8885

SERVICES

SERVICES

LARRY’S HANDYMAN SERVICE

No job too small. Entrance doors, interior doors, storm doors, shower doors, drywall repairs and paint, laminate floors, interior paint. Over 40 years of carpentry experience. Please call Larry, 410-251-9066

Classifieds 410-723-6397

MARYLAND

MISC. FOR SALE

Get Boost Infinite! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us!

855-977-5719

Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HDDVR Upgrade, 80,000 OnDemand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-855-4076870

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

YARD SALES

YARD SALES

COMMUNITY YARD SALE

Herring Landing at Nature Park off Keyser Point Road. Sat., May 3rd, 8am-1pm. Rain date: May 4th.

COMMUNITY YARD SALE

Berlin, Decatur Farm, off Route 113 across from Stephen Decatur Park. Saturday, May 3rd, 8am to noon.

OYSTER HARBOR

COMMUNITY WIDE

YARD SALE

Whisper Trace Drive May 10, 2025 8:00am-1:00pm Rain date: May 17, 2025

MISC./OTHER

Reduced to nothing! Dust at the bottom, this life, But a speck of Son!

Classified Deadline is Monday @ 5pm

CLASSIFIED AD NETWORK

REAL ESTATE

Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-855-993-0969 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

VEHICLES WANTED DONATE YOUR CAR/TRUCK/ RV - Lutheran Mission Society of MD Compassion Place ministries help local families with food, clothing, counseling. Tax deductible. MVA licensed #W1044. 410-228-8437 www.CompassionPlace.org

We Buy Houses for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-866-541-7929

SERVICES DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-855-337-5228 www.dental50plus.com/ MDDC #6258

Quintairos, Prieto, Wood & Boyer, P.A.

1966 Greenspring Drive, Suite LL2

Lutherville-Timonium, Maryland 21093 (410) 238-2840

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE OF RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY

10900 Coastal Hwy, Unit 1908, Ocean City, MD 21842

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Purchase Money Deed of Trust from John Gann and Denise Gann, dated March 15, 2005 and recorded in Liber 4426, Folio 406 among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, with an original principal balance of $200,000.00, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Substitute Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, 1 West Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863, Courthouse Door, on

Monday, May 5, 2025 AT 11:00 AM

ALL THAT FEE-SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND and the improvements thereon situated in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Purchase Money Deed of Trust. The real property is known as 10900 Coastal Hwy, Unit 1908, Ocean City, MD 21842 Tax ID #10-124662. Tax Map 0116, Grid 0019, Parcel 2956A.

Terms of Sale: The property will be sold “as is” and subject to conditions, restrictions, easements and agreements of record affecting same, if any and with no warranty of any kind. A deposit of $13,000.00 in the form of cash, cashier’s check, certified check, or other form as the Substitute Trustees determine acceptable, is required at the time of auction. Balance of the purchase price to be paid in cash within ten days of final ratification of sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County. At the Substitute Trustees’ discretion, the foreclosure purchaser, if a corporation or LLC, must produce evidence, prior to bidding, of the legal formation of such entity. The purchaser, other than the Holder of the Note, its assigns, or designees, shall pay interest on the unpaid purchase money at the rate of 6.5% per annum from the date of foreclosure auction to the date funds are received in the office of the Substitute Trustees.

In the event settlement is delayed for any reason , there shall be no abatement of interest. Real estate taxes and all other public charges, or assessments, ground rent, or condo/HOA assessments, not otherwise divested by ratification of the sale, to be adjusted as of the date of foreclosure auction and assumed thereafter by the purchaser. Purchaser will take title subject to any private utility water and sewer covenants, charges or front foot benefit payments associated therewith for the remaining duration of the same. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes and settle-

ment expenses, and all other costs incident to settlement, shall be borne by the purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. Purchaser assumes the risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale forward.

TIME

IS OF THE ESSENCE.

If the purchaser shall fail to comply with the terms of the sale or fails to go to settlement within ten (10) days of ratification of the sale, the Substitute Trustees may, in addition to any other available remedies, declare the entire deposit forfeited and resell the property at the risk and cost of the defaulting purchaser, and the purchaser agrees to pay reasonable attorneys' fees for the Substitute Trustees, plus all costs incurred, if the Substitute Trustees have filed the appropriate motion with the Court to resell the property. Purchaser waives personal service of any paper filed in connection with such a motion on himself and/or any principal or corporate designee, and expressly agrees to accept service of any such paper by regular mail directed to the address provided by said bidder at the time of foreclosure auction. In such event, the defaulting purchaser shall be liable for the payment of any deficiency in the purchase price, all costs and expenses of resale, reasonable attorney's fees, and all other charges due and incidental and consequential damages, and any deficiency in the underlying secured debt. The purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds or profits resulting from any resale of the property. If the Substitute Trustees cannot convey insurable title, the purchaser's sole remedy at law or in equity shall be the return of the deposit without interest. The sale is subject to postsale confirmation and 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 his deposit without interest.

NOTE: The information contained herein was obtained from sources deemed to be reliable, but is offered for informational purposes only. Neither the auctioneer, the beneficiary of the Deed of Trust, the Substitute Trustee nor his agents or attorneys make any representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy of information.

PROSPECTIVE PURCHASERS ARE URGED TO PERFORM THEIR OWN DUE DILIGENCE WITH RESPECT TO THE PROPERTY PRIOR TO THE FORECLOSURE AUCTION. For additional information, please contact the Substitute Trustees.

Mark H. Wittstadt, and Cole Luthy, Substitute Trustees

Tidewater Auctions, LLC

305 West Chesapeake Avenue, Suite 105

Towson, Maryland 21204

410-825-2900

www.tidewaterauctions.com

OCD-4/17/3t

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 2023 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 14, 2025 @ 10:00 A.M. CLOSING FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2025 AT THE HOUR OF 1:00 P.M. LIST OF PROPERTIES

Acct#10126452 Assessed To Abdow Victor P Jr & Seborowski Nina M. Located At 11000 Coastal Hwy 0705 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 705 Beach Hwy Capri CM. Assessment $329,467. Total Due $9,736.43.

Acct#02010720 Assessed To Adorable Lucille Assistant Living Facility LLC. Located At 3917 Market St Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As Lot 2 .46 Ac NW Side R-394 SW Of Snow Hill. Assessment $117,967. Total Due $2,670.43.

Acct#01011871 Assessed To Allen Bessie For Life. Located At 1951 Colona Rd Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 150' X 300' N Side Colona Road S Of Pocomoke. Assessment $60,533. Total Due $1,508.76.

Acct#02021943 Assessed To Ames Maurice L Sr & Ames Brenda. Located At 106 Stevens St Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As Lot 2 13802 Sq Ft Stevens Rd Subdiv Pl Of Oscar K & Viola F Blake. Assessment $78,167. Total Due $3,255.54.

Acct#04007395 Assessed To Arentz Ashley L & Saltzgiver Patrick M. Located At 8266 Patey Woods Rd Newark, Md 21841. Described As Lot 1 2.43 Acs Sw Side Patey Woods Road Min Sub J Kucinski Pl. Assessment $155,800. Total Due $3,466.48

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. As-

sessment $95,867. Total Due $2,156.07.

Acct#10146976 Assessed To Baker Laura H. Located At 11700 Coastal Hwy 1006 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U T-1006 Beach Hwy Carousel Center CM. Assessment $416,467. Total Due $12,036.49.

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 $102,900. Total Due $2,414.44.

Acct#10715652 Assessed To Bandorick William III T/A Black Diamond Builders. Located At Sunset Ave 8 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U-12629-8 Ph 2 Sunset Ave Bayside Professional Ctr. Assessment $115,800. Total Due $2,498.73.

Acct#10272734 Assessed To Barron Brian & Barron Amy G. Located At 12210 Coastal Hwy 0207 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 207 Btw 122nd & 123rd Sts Bonnie Belle CM. Assessment $102,200. Total Due $3,225.95.

Acct#10330939 Assessed To Basle George & Karyn. Located At 429 14th St 0001 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 1 Z 14th St & Bay Harbour Island II CM. Assessment $550,733. Total Due $16,452.09.

Acct#03120147 Assessed To Bates Kenneth Cody. Located At 11242 Campbelltown Rd Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot 2 1.84 Ac E S Campbelltown Rd Bndy Ln Adj Ld Davis/Goody. Assessment $104,200. Total Due $2,459.09.

Acct#10232988 Assessed To Becker Julia E. Located At 715 142nd St 04270 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 427 P 4 142nd St Light House Village CM. Assessment $131,900. Total Due $4,053.79.

Acct#10053986 Assessed To Behney Christopher. Located At 210 Trimper Ave 0004 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 4 Trimper Ave Sand & Foam CM. Assessment $121,600. Total Due $3,761.08.

Acct#01027581 Assessed To Belange Wislande. Located At Second St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 50' X 240' W Side Second St Pocomoke. Assessment $10,700. Total Due $639.42.

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 $178,867. Total Due $6,680.57.

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. Assessment $306,100. Total Due $7,706.94.

Acct#02018802 Assessed To Bianchi Lorrie & Brown Grafton Lee III. Located At 121 Collins St Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As Lot 55 X 120.40 121 N Collins St Snow Hill. Assessment $162,767. Total Due $6,553.27.

Acct#10256186 Assessed To Bitton Shlomo. Located At 104 120th St 000B2 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U B B 2 P 1 Edw L Taylor

Rd Marlin Cove II CM. Assessment $255,000. Total Due $7,734.43.

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 $35,100. Total Due $769.55.

Acct#05000262 Assessed To Blake Quincy & Irene For Life. Located At 9754 Hotel Rd Bishopville, Md 21813. Described As 60 X 259.75 S Side Line Hotel Road S Of Selbyville. Assessment $94,600. Total Due $2,109.09.

Acct#10109361 Assessed To Bliznyuk Serge. Located At 163 Winter Harbor Dr Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Lot 32 Sec II Winter Harbor Dr Pl Caine Keys II. Assessment $433,867. Total Due $13,280.04.

Acct#03041751 Assessed To Bloum Donald L & Carol Lou. Located At 2 Waters Edge Ct Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot C-04-200A Waters Edge Ct Prop Sur Lot 199A & 200A Oc Pines. Assessment $295,100. Total Due $2,165.74.

Acct#08006857 Assessed To Bottomer Rita Christine Shields. Located At 917 Greenbackville Rd Stockton, Md 21864. Described As 2 Acs E Side Greenbackville Rd S Of Stockton. Assessment $110,300. Total Due $2,422.01.

Acct#01000462 Assessed To Bowen Linda M Johnson. Located At 2325 Worcester Hwy Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 52 1/2' X 52 1/2' NW Side R-113 Willow Grove. Assessment $49,067. Total Due $1,232.53.

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 $189,400. Total Due $3,277.50.

Acct#01026410 Assessed To Boyd Crawford & Jessica Boyd. Located At 1403 Princess Anne Ln Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As Lot 6 Blk E 60 X 150 1403 Princess Anne Lane Pl Small Bull & Dryden. Assessment $120,967. Total Due $4,163.51.

Acct#10317878 Assessed To Breau Michelle D. Located At 12301 Jamaica Ave 0337K Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 337 B K P 1 123rd Street Hidden Harbour III CM. Assessment $156,633. Total Due $4,755.79.

Acct#03072592 Assessed To Briggs Elaine M & Briggs Frederick L. Located At 7 Ambleside Ct Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot B-07-082 10971 Sq Ft Ambelside Ct Pl Ocean Pines Sec 7. Assessment $68,600. Total Due $1,569.03.

Acct#10768889 Assessed To Burke Edward A Trustee & Burke Kathryn D Trustee & Others. Located At Baltimore Ave Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Parcel A 1704 Sf Baltimore Ave Resub Of Lts 6 & 7 Into. Assessment $93,700. Total Due $3,091.82.

Acct#03029379 Assessed To Burley Oak Holdings LLC. Located At 12 Broad St Berlin, Md 21811. Described As 30' X 150' S Side Broad St Globe Theatre. Assessment $624,300. Total Due $17,787.90. Acct#08003688 Assessed To Cane

Miriam & Honiss W Cane III & Harris Steven & Valerie Lashley. Located At 5480 Stockton Rd Stockton, Md 21864. Described As 3.35 Acs On Pocomoke Road Stockton. Assessment $195,867. Total Due $2,972.07.

Acct#10400554 Assessed To Carey Richard R For Life. Located At Harbor Winds CM #C C Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Boat Slip #C Edgewater Ave Harbor Winds CM. Assessment $30,000. Total Due $1,090.93

Acct#10304903 Assessed To Carey Richard R For Life. Located At 1203 Edgewater Ave 000C Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U C Edgewater Drive Harbor Winds CM. Assessment $301,000. Total Due $9,326.43.

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 $91,767. Total Due $2,150.09.

Acct#01017152 Assessed To Charles Waldo. Located At 609 Second St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 75' X 150' Cor Laurel & 2nd Sts Pocomoke. Assessment $134,433. Total Due $5,709.16.

Acct#01029916 Assessed To Charles Waldo & Nicolas Mejynne. Located At 101 Adkins Pl Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As Lot 3 Blk B Adkins Place Pl Homewood Pocomoke. Assessment $162,200. Total Due $6,711.73.

Acct#07012241 Assessed To Chatham Daphne Ball & Chatham Grover Todd Jr. Located At 8204 Meadow Bridge Rd Eden, Md 21822. Described As Lot 1 2 Acs E/S Meadow Bridge Rd Subd Robert & E Hall Pl. Assessment $146,467. Total Due $3,270.47.

Acct#07000030 Assessed To Chatham Daphne Frances For Life Chatham Grover Todd Jr For Life. Located At 8138 Meadow Bridge Rd Salisbury, Md 21804. Described As 64 Acs Mt Pleasant Land E Side Meadow Bridge Rd. Assessment $21,200. Total Due $1,374.61.

Acct#07000057 Assessed To Chatham Daphne Frances For Life & Chatham Grover Todd Jr For Life. Located At 8208 Meadow Bridge Rd Eden, Md 21822. Described As 32.08

Acs Hitch Ld E/S Meadow Bridge Rd P/O 200073 Snow Hill. Assessment $315,333. Total Due $7,180.13.

Acct#10222079 Assessed To Colletti Ricardo V & Walker-Colletti Stephanie B. Located At 3801 Atlantic Ave 0110 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 110 Btw 38th & 39th Sts Diamond Beach CM. Assessment $270,600. Total Due $8,295.18.

Acct#10222311 Assessed To Colletti Ricardo V & Walker-Colletti

Stephanie B. Located At 3801 Atlantic Ave 0216 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 216 Btw 38th & 39th Sts Diamond Beach CM. Assessment $290,567. Total Due $8,432.31.

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 $54,600. Total Due $2,350.06.

Acct#01019848 Assessed To Collins Claudia M. Located At 409 Dudley Ave Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 60' X 150' N Side 409 Dudley Ave Pocomoke. Assessment $44,900. Total Due $1,885.25.

Acct#01012096 Assessed To Cooper James & Reynolds Edna. Located At 1973 Colona Rd Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 24,260 Sq Ft N Side Colona Road S Of Pocomoke. Assessment $106,633. Total Due $2,400.20.

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 $275,200. Total Due $8,364.35.

Acct#10318939 Assessed To Cropper John L & Barbara Annette Riley. Located At 10101 Waterview Dr Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Lots 29 30 31 32 33 Bay View Ave Pl C Lewis Farm. Assessment $228,500. Total Due $1,071.90.

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 $232,833. Total Due $5,166.71.

Acct#03163423 Assessed To Davis John R. Located At 395 Dueling Way Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot 47 Ph 1S 23092 Sf Dueling Way Decatur Farms Pl. Assessment $409,200. Total Due $12,705.60.

Acct#10141966 Assessed To Defrancesco Properties LLC. Located At 11500 Coastal Hwy 1300 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 1300 Beach Hwy Sea Watch CM. Assessment $805,300. Total Due $24,542.50.

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 $134,567. Total Due $5,457.57.

Acct#02011204 Assessed To Dixon Teamer Jr & Dixon Elaine Evelyn. Located At 3944 Market St Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As Lot SW/S Market St S Of Snow Hill. Assessment $147,633. Total Due $3,261.87.

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 $242,400. Total Due $4,588.79.

Acct#10051347 Assessed To Dougherty Edwin J. Located At 3010 Philadelphia Ave N301 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U N301 Btw 30th & 31st Sts Gr Three Cheers CM. Assessment $98,467. Total Due $2,905.64.

Acct#03003353 Assessed To Drew Leonard Edward. Located At Campbelltown Rd Bishopville, Md 21813. Described As 104 1/2 X 104 1/2 W Side Campbelltown Rd NE Of Whaleyville. Assessment $47,500. Total Due $1,246.25.

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 $144,800. Total Due $3,591.30.

Acct#03050688 Assessed To Eline

Janet B. Located At 48 Windjammer Rd Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot B-01-097 7700 Sq Ft Windjammer Rd Pl Ocean Pines Sec 1. Assessment $267,400. Total Due $5,818.35.

Acct#10020727 Assessed To Elliott Ralph H & Elliott Pauline J. Located At Snug Harbor Rd Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot 50 Sec A N Side Hastings Rd Pl Snug Harbor. Assessment $158,767. Total Due $3,462.92

Acct#08006644 Assessed To Ellis Edwin Lee & Ellis Rose Marie. Located At 5836 George Island Landing Rd Stockton, Md 21864. Described As 96' X 330' 31799 Sq Ft Geo Island Lndg Rd S Of Stockton. Assessment $71,467. Total Due $1,656.97.

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 $383,567. Total Due $11,415.18.

Acct#10076609 Assessed To Falanga Craig Falanga Cheryl. Located At 3 A 63rd St 18 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 18 63rd St Gr Lazy Whale CM. Assessment $140,567. Total Due $4,230.47.

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 $237,200. Total Due $5,073.03.

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 $136,800. Total Due $5,411.26.

Acct#10369649 Assessed To Flood Livia Robinson. Located At 200 59th St 0408 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 408 60th St Coconut Malorie Resort. Assessment $120,667. Total Due $3,762.22. Acct#04005813 Assessed To Foreman Samuel Tyreel & Sean J B Foreman & Other. Located At 8629 Tindley Rd Newark, Md 21841. Described As 5.07 Acs N S Labor Camp Rd Pl Minor Sub For S & H Foreman. Assessment $99,267. Total Due $2,281.41.

Acct#10208718 Assessed To Foster Richard T & Pamela F. Located At 9 52nd St 0001 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 1 52nd St Pine Court CM. Assessment $199,267. Total Due $5,461.57.

Acct#10235936 Assessed To Freeman Peter S & Robin Anne Churc Norton Phyllis M & Gail L Guthrie. Located At 6 136th St 0102 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 102 136th St Silver Shell North CM. Assessment $237,867. Total Due $7,385.98.

Acct#08004072 Assessed To Fry Jodi Marie. Located At 5545 Stockton Rd Stockton, Md 21864. Described As 141.40 X 303.46 X 101.34 X 310.46 Pocomoke Rd Stockton. Assessment $134,533. Total Due $1,910.37.

Acct#08005184 Assessed To Grace Tabernacle Of Deliverance Church Inc. Located At 5496 Stockton Rd Stockton, Md 21864. Described As Lot/Church/Cemetery

Pocomoke Rd Stockton. Assessment $43,700. Total Due $69,262.74.

Acct#03134563 Assessed To Gravenor Jerry S & Robin D Gravenor. Located At 8706 Whaleyville Rd Whaleyville, Md 21872. Described As Lot 4 2.439 Acs Whaleysville Road Horace Carey Min Sub. Assessment $120,500. Total Due $2,848.86.

Acct#02020203 Assessed To Green Felicia & Green James. Located At Ross St Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As Lot 7 1.18 Acs W Side Ross St. H Williams Subdiv. Assessment $27,400. Total Due $1,313.56.

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 $188,400. Total Due $5,427.12.

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 $1,152,133. Total Due $18,022.72.

Acct#10285291 Assessed To Halem Mitchell & Halem Marjorie Silverman Etal. Located At 9800 Coastal Hwy 1510 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 1510 Beach Hwy Plaza CM. Assessment $430,800. Total Due $13,480.66.

Acct#01001418 Assessed To Hall Diane Susie Stevens & Randolph Debora Elizabeth Stevens. Located At 1813 Pit Circle Rd Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 1.871 Acs W Side Pit Circle Rd SW Of Pocomoke. Assessment $28,867. Total Due $859.53.

Acct#03123898 Assessed To Hall William E & Hall Christina. Located At 11633 Worcester Hwy Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot 1 W/S R-113 Pl Minor Sub Prop Of Mary Griffiths. Assessment $179,700. Total Due $2,360.15.

Acct#10208017 Assessed To Harmis Warren E Jr & Harmis Vickie L. Located At 6 51st St 3W Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 3W W B 51st St Worcester House CM. Assessment $265,800. Total Due $8,122.82.

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 $270,067. Total Due $7,832.12.

Acct#10120071 Assessed To Harper Kevin. Located At 10300 Coastal Hwy 508 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 508 Coastal Hwy Atlantis CM. Assessment $280,100. Total Due $8,284.86.

Acct#03054055 Assessed To Hartman Robert K Hartman Patricia G. Located At 795 Ocean Pky Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot B-11-261 7650 Sq Ft Ocean Parkway Pl Ocean Pines Sec 11. Assessment $216,600. Total Due $2,120.80.

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 $102,300. Total Due $2,331.15.

Acct#01040707 Assessed To

Heath Clarence. Located At 506 Young St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As Lot 1 3632 Sq Ft 506 Young St L V Layman Inc Subd Pl. Assessment $49,033. Total Due $2,222.20.

Acct#01020587 Assessed To Heath Clarence W & Heath Jesse J. Located At 504 Young St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As Lot 2 3102 Sq Ft 504 Young St L V Layman Inc Subd Pl. Assessment $46,633. Total Due $2,107.93.

Acct#10176034 Assessed To Heise

Michael Scott. Located At 14410 Coastal Hwy Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Lots 13 14 15 16 Blk 24 S Side Whaley Ave Pl 2 Fenwick. Assessment $2,998,467. Total Due $92,373.29.

Acct#10176042 Assessed To Heise

Michael Scott. Located At 9 145th St Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Lot 10 Blk 24 S Side 145th St Pl 2 Fenwick. Assessment $538,533. Total Due $16,144.97.

Acct#10715776 Assessed To Heise

Michael Scott & Heise Dina Danielle. Located At 12625 Sunset Ave 3 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U-12625-3 Ph 4 Sunset Ave Bayside Professional Ctr. Assessment $119,400. Total Due $2,572.47.

Acct#10715784 Assessed To Heise

Michael Scott & Heise Dina Danielle. Located At 12625 Sunset Ave 4 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U-12625-4 Ph 4 Sunset Ave Bayside Professional Ctr. Assessment $119,400. Total Due $2,572.47.

Acct#10715792 Assessed To Heise

Michael Scott & Heise Dina Danielle. Located At 12625 Sunset Ave 5 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U-12625-5 Ph 4 Sunset Ave Bayside Professional Ctr. Assessment $115,900. Total Due $2,500.88.

Acct#10238358 Assessed To Heise

Michael Scott & Dina Danielle Heise. Located At 1800 Philadelphia Ave 8 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 8 Philadelpia Ave Village Market CM. Assessment $215,200. Total Due $6,932.37.

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 $104,867. Total Due $4,338.93.

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 $169,267. Total Due $3,664.50.

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 $74,500. Total Due $2,431.52.

Acct#03150712 Assessed To Howarth Thomas K. Located At 5 Chatham Ct Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot 311 5,712 Sq Ft Chatham Court Phase 4 Parke Ocean Pines Sec 16. Assessment $319,500. Total Due $6,715.91.

Acct#10047382 Assessed To Iski Paul. Located At 322 Sunset Dr 0006 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As

U 6 Sunset Drive Sunset Six CM. Assessment $164,467. Total Due $4,877.60.

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 $147,967. Total Due $4,376.15.

Acct#01015923 Assessed To Jenkins Arnold. Located At 707 Clarke Ave Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As Lot 2 3267 Sq Ft 707 Clarke Ave Taylors Subdiv. Assessment $70,600. Total Due $2,982.53.

Acct#03040232 Assessed To Jerez Luis M. Located At 84 Crest Haven Dr Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot B-09-553 9939 Sq Ft Crest Haven Drive Pl Ocean Pines Sec 9. Assessment $199,100. Total Due $2,752.80.

Acct#01004425 Assessed To Johnsen Christopher M. Located At 2843 Stockton Rd Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 100' X 420' N Side Stockton Road SE Of Pocomoke. Assessment $142,267. Total Due $3,206.16.

Acct#03023214 Assessed To Johnson Francine Seryta, Located At 9008 Camelia Ln Berlin, Md 21811. Described As .14 Ac Camelia Lane SE Of Berlin. Assessment $32,500. Total Due $727.76.

Acct#01012177 Assessed To Johnson Jacqueline Wright Constance Etal. Located At Colona Rd Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 4.36 Acs N Side Colona Rd Bndry Sur Fannie Dennis. Assessment $27,200. Total Due $718.90.

Acct#10075009 Assessed To Johnson Stella Theo & Chubski Matthew T. Located At 105 59th St 01070 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 107 P 4 58th Street Oasis On The Bay CM. Assessment $257,200. Total Due $7,423.68.

Acct#03002985 Assessed To Jones Millard Edward F For Life. Located At 8336 Circle Rd Berlin, Md 21811. Described As 1.136 Acs S Side Circle Rd SE Of Whaleyville. Assessment $185,000. Total Due $4,048.94.

Acct#03035700 Assessed To Joynes Joyce Bowen. Located At 408 Flower St Berlin, Md 21811. Described As 66 65 X 510 7 E Side Flower St Berlin. Assessment $136,300. Total Due $5,426.41.

Acct#03141306 Assessed To Kappes Thomas P & Sandra L. Located At 11032 Nicholas Ln A102 Berlin, Md 21811. Described As U A102 P1 Manklin Creek Rd Ocean Pines Vlg Sq CM. Assessment $139,433. Total Due $2,988.71.

Acct#10303311 Assessed To Keen James Lawrence. Located At Harbor Rd Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Lot 95 N Side S Harbor Rd Pl Ocean City. Assessment $51,000. Total Due $1,228.16.

Acct#10015723 Assessed To Keen James Lawrence. Located At 12814 Harbor Rd Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Lot 1 Blk B 50 X 100 S Side South Harbor Rd Pl Ocean City. Assessment $319,100. Total Due $6,928.82.

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 $864.40.

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 $101,000. Total Due $3,939.13.

Acct#10162467 Assessed To Kjps Properties LLC. Located At 13100 Coastal Hwy 12070 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 1207 P 2 131st St Braemar Towers CM. Assessment $335,900. Total Due $9,996.06.

Acct#03008665 Assessed To Koltuk Mustafa. Located At 10507 Friendship Rd Berlin, Md 21811. Described As 1 Ac W Side R-452 NE Of Berlin. Assessment $249,200. Total Due $5,413.80.

Acct#02017105 Assessed To Koltuk Mustafa. Located At 507 Dighton Ave Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As Lot 3 507 Dighton Ave Pl Harry W Ward. Assessment $20,700. Total Due $1,805.66.

Acct#03144488 Assessed To Kufchak Carl Vincent. Located At 11848 Peyton Ct Bishopville, Md 21862. Described As Lot 3 1 Ac Peyton Court Peyton Acres Pl. Assessment $549,500. Total Due $11,922.02.

Acct#10754828 Assessed To Kufchak Carleigh R. Located At 10900 Holystone Ln 105 Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Unit 105 Ph 5 Holystone Ln Marina Villas CM At Glenriddle. Assessment $352,600. Total Due $7,668.70.

Acct#03096920 Assessed To Launi Anthony C Launi Bridget C. Located At 4 Royal Oaks Dr Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot B-10-010 14783 Sq Ft Birch Place Pl Ocean Pines Sec 10. Assessment $304,000. Total Due $6,512.80. 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 $245,867. Total Due $7,476.46.

Acct#02020815 Assessed To Lehmann Michelle. Located At 110 Ironshire St Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As 99' X 150' 110 Ironshire X Snow Sts Snow Hill. Assessment $239,167. Total Due $6,191.97.

Acct#03000508 Assessed To Lewis Karen Y. Located At Duncan Crossing Rd Whaleyville, Md 21872. Described As 6837.86 Sq Ft S Side Duncan Crossing Rd Plat Of Bobbie L Armstrong. Assessment $32,900. Total Due $984.68

Acct#07005180 Assessed To Lidinsky Nicolas J & Lidinsky Melissa J. Located At 4817 Scotty Rd Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As App 2.023 Acs N Side Scotty Road W Of Snow Hill. Assessment $118,567. Total Due $2,651.63.

Acct#01024833 Assessed To LMS Homes LLC. Located At 209 Tenth St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 54' X 158' E Side 209 Tenth St Pocomoke. Assessment $24,300. Total Due $1,286.92.

Acct#01022725 Assessed To LMS Homes LLC. Located At 401 Market St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 85' X 142' N Side 401 & 401 1/2 Market & Fourth Sts. Assessment $305,833. Total Due $12,450.76.

Acct#01019783 Assessed To LMS Homes LLC. Located At 408 Dudley Ave Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 58' X 150' S Side 408 Dudley St Pocomoke. Assessment $98,967. Total Due $4,414.85.

Acct#01015915 Assessed To LMS Homes LLC. Located At 709 Clarke Ave Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 60' X 100' 709 Clarke Ave & 50' X 100' E/S 711 Clarke Ave. Assessment $102,033. Total Due $4,582.59.

Acct#10160782 Assessed To Loeb Family LLC. Located At 13110 Coastal Hwy 03130 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 313 P 1 Wight St Braemar Towers CM. Assessment $557,200. Total Due $12,835.65.

Acct#03002101 Assessed To Logan Edna Collins & Catherine Smith. Located At 11803 Campbelltown Rd Berlin, Md 21811. Described As 4.43 Acs W Side Campbelltown Rd Edna Logan Et Al Survey. Assessment $73,300. Total Due $1,862.74.

Acct#03073831 Assessed To Long Andrea Janette. Located At 77 Abbyshire Rd Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot B-06-391 9442 Sq Ft Garrett Dr Lot B-06-390 10893 Sq Ft. Assessment $290,600. Total Due $6,044.49.

Acct#10208610 Assessed To Makris Andrew & Makris Christina. Located At 9 52nd St 0009 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 9 52nd St Pine Court CM. Assessment $220,300. Total Due $6,750.01.

Acct#10369452 Assessed To Malkus Milton M IV For Life. Located At 200 59th St 0309 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 309 60th St Coconut Malorie Resort. Assessment $120,667. Total Due $3,762.22.

Acct#08000514 Assessed To Marshall Helen R. Located At 2691 Worcester Hwy Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As .724 Acs W S Worcester Hwy Pl Frank F & Helen Marshall. Assessment $108,300. Total Due $2,375.37.

Acct#10119138 Assessed To Mccarthy Christopher S & Nugai Jennifer L. Located At 10700 Coastal Hwy 2103 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 2103 Beach Hwy Quay CM. Assessment $307,567. Total Due $8,948.70.

Acct#10135958 Assessed To Mccarthy Yvette H & Messaoudi Michele. Located At 11100 Coastal Hwy 0806 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 806 Coastal Hwy Irene CM. Assessment $412,100. Total Due $12,707.46.

Acct#10156610 Assessed To Mcdermott Philip Gregory. Located At 8 128th St Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Lot 4 N Side 128th St Pl Dune Village Townhse. Assessment $243,133. Total Due $7,603.95.

Acct#10161142 Assessed To MDR Bachelors Hall 2 LLC. Located At 13110 Coastal Hwy 07130 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 713 P 1 Wight St Braemar Towers CM. Assessment $557,200. Total Due $16,950.86.

Acct#10161495 Assessed To MDR

Bachelors Hall LLC. Located At 13110 Coastal Hwy 07140 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 714 P 1 Wight St Braemar Towers CM. Assessment $557,200. Total Due $16,950.86.

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 $90,400. Total Due $1,702.39.

Acct#10323207 Assessed To Mollichelli Luigi A. Located At 12807 Kings Ct Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Lot 55 King's Court Fox Chapel Subdiv. Assessment $518,367. Total Due $1,739.41.

Acct#03114732 Assessed To Morris Donald Hilton. Located At Georgetown Rd Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot 2A 3.123 Acs NS Georgetown Rd Resub Plat Lot 2 Mag Briddell Prop. Assessment $70,200. Total Due $1,661.73.

Acct#10135400 Assessed To Murphy Brian R. Located At 11100 Coastal Hwy 0803 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 803 Coastal Hwy Irene CM. Assessment $377,867. Total Due $11,367.92.

Acct#10379059 Assessed To Naylor Cindy L. Located At 26 Harbour Island Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Boat Slip 26 14th St & Bay Harbour Island CM. Assessment $40,000. Total Due $1,326.65.

Acct#10235154 Assessed To Naylor Cindy L. Located At 417 14th St 0060 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 60 14th St & Bay Harbour Island CM. Assessment $532,067. Total Due $16,070.28.

Acct#03051633 Assessed To Nickell Edwin L & Nickell Tammy L. Located At 155 Seafarer Ln Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot B-06-612 9750 Sq Ft Seafarer Ct Pl Ocean Pines Sec 6. Assessment $206,000. Total Due $4,353.65.

Acct#01016334 Assessed To Nicolas Mejynne. Located At 707 Second St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 70' X 215' E Side 707 Second St Pocomoke. Assessment $68,200. Total Due $3,284.20.

Acct#10024684 Assessed To Orsted Wind Power North America Ll. Located At 12907 Harbor Rd Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Lots 58 Thru 60 Blk D N Side Harbor Rd Pl Ocean City Harbor Sub. Assessment $1,111,700. Total Due $1,195.76.

Acct#01017314 Assessed To Parsons Karen Annette. Located At 208 Walnut St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 70.12' X 104.5' X 70 X 102' S Side 208 Walnut St Pocomoke. Assessment $164,133. Total Due $6,222.42.

Acct#07002351 Assessed To Pennewill Benjamin C. Located At Meadow Bridge Rd Eden, Md 21822. Described As 63.14 Acs E Side Meadow Bridge Rd Bndy Sur Benjamin C Penn. Assessment $91,900. Total Due $2,135.23.

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 Clearvie. Assessment $301,500. Total Due $6,758.86.

Acct#10311985 Assessed To Peretz Yehuda. Located At 37 Anchor Way Dr Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot 65 Blk A 6180 Sq Ft Anchor Way Mystic Harbour Sec 2. Assessment $249,100. Total Due $3,293.98. Acct#10046750 Assessed To Pe-

terson Irene J. Located At 310 Sunset Dr Ocean City, Md 21841. Described As Lot 80 N Side 310 Sunset Dr Pl Skyline Dev. Assessment $301,700. Total Due $9,162.91.

Acct#02005298 Assessed To Peterson Jon K & Peterson Linda A. Located At Disharoon Rd Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As Lot B 7.81 Acs E/S Disharoon Rd Amendment To Lot B Pl. Assessment $55,933. Total Due $1,153.85.

Acct#01015869 Assessed To Pierre Etzer Dorval & Marie Jocelyne Pierre. Located At 700 Second St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 75' X 80' W Side 700 Second & Laurel Streets. Assessment $159,767. Total Due $6,050.51.

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 $58,167. Total Due $2,735.53.

Acct#03109178 Assessed To Prihoda Ronald P & Shorb Carol Ann. Located At 19 Fosse Grange Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot B-10-1253 10663 Sq Ft Fosse Grange Pl Ocean Pines Sec 10. Assessment $288,200. Total Due $6,172.27.

Acct#03015904 Assessed To Purnell Cynthia. Located At 10349 Assateague Rd Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot North Side R 376 Berlin To Lewis Store. Assessment $101,900. Total Due $2,163.97.

Acct#01002783 Assessed To Purnell Herbert William. Located At Pit Circle Rd Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As Lot E Side Pit Circle Road SW Of Pocomoke. Assessment $14,500. Total Due $567.16.

Acct#02020106 Assessed To Purnell Norman R & Roberta H. Located At 110 Maple Ct Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As Lot 5 10045.60 Sq Ft N Side Maple St Pl Maple Meadows. Assessment $135,500. Total Due $4,928.01.

Acct#03022544 Assessed To Purnell Sharon Denise. Located At 10529 Harrison Rd Berlin, Md 21811. Described As 59 X 260.5 X 70 X 231 W/S Harrison Road SE Of Berlin. Assessment $223,600. Total Due $4,843.36.

Acct#01037145 Assessed To Pusey Stephen W. Located At 1826 S Pocomoke Beltway Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As Rev Par A 13.94 Acs S/S Pocomoke Beltway Con Chinh Myloan-Nguyen Pl. Assessment $421,933. Total Due $9,129.06.

Acct#07004052 Assessed To Pusey Stephen W. Located At 6641 Whitesburg Rd Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As 28.22 Acs W Side Whitesburg Rd W Of Snow Hill. Assessment $284,400. Total Due $6,432.41.

Acct#07001061 Assessed To Pusey Stephen W. Located At 7918 Cardinal Ln Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As 35 Acs St Lukes Road W Of Snow Hill. Assessment $125,967. Total Due $2,749.67.

Acct#07001053 Assessed To Pusey Stephen W. Located At 7922 Cardinal Ln Snow Hill, Md 21863. Described As Lot 2 9.51 Acs St Lukes Rd Min Sub Theresa A Scott. Assessment $103,800. Total Due $2,710.54.

Acct#01010697 Assessed To Rebel Willie Jr. Located At Sheephouse Rd

Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 371' Triangular Shaped Lot S Side Sheephouse Rd. Assessment $17,100. Total Due $719.14.

Acct#05004942 Assessed To Revocable Trust Agreement Of Barbara Hudson Barbara Ann Trustee. Located At Bishopville Rd Bishopville, Md 21813. Described As 148 1/4 Acs Near S Side Bishopville Rd W Of Bishopville. Assessment $38,900. Total Due $978.80.

Acct#10051169 Assessed To Rohler Darren. Located At 3010 Philadelphia Ave S101 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U S101 Btw 30th & 31st Sts Three Cheers CM. Assessment $98,467. Total Due $2,905.64.

Acct#03156613 Assessed To Roth James R & Bonita B Roth. Located At 12 Chatham Ct Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot 377 5231 Sq Ft Chatham Court Phase 4 Parke Ocean Pines Sec 16. Assessment $321,400. Total Due $8,863.95.

Acct#10224853 Assessed To Russell John Russell Amy. Located At 2807 Plover Dr 0005 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 5 Plover Drive Decoy I Th CM. Assessment $259,500. Total Due $7,809.19.

Acct#03133648 Assessed To Sailors Mary E. Located At 15 The Point Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot 132A 4900 Sq Ft Salt Grass Road Salt Grass Cove T H. Assessment $404,500. Total Due $3,045.80.

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 $312,133. Total Due $9,114.11.

Acct#01003259 Assessed To Schoolfield Roger & Ruth Ann Copes. Located At 2011 Cropper Ct Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As Lot 8 23647 Sq Ft Cropper Lane Pl Unionvle Hgts Annex. Assessment $66,167. Total Due $1,507.43. Acct#01001876 Assessed To Schoolfield Roger L & Ruth A Copes. Located At 2003 Cropper Ct Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As Lot 10 24000 Sq Ft N Side Unionvle Rd Pl Unionvle Hts. Assessment $42,333. Total Due $1,133.22.

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 $188,800. Total Due $4,329.61.

Acct#10057825 Assessed To Seewald William H & Seewald E Arlene. Located At 508 Bayshore Dr 7 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Apt 7 S 1 Bay Shore Drive Golden Gate CM. Assessment $162,667. Total Due $4,762.44.

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 $317,700. Total Due $6,842.67.

Acct#03142434 Assessed To Sherman David Lawrence & Sherman Mary Dolores. Located At 19 Brittany Ln Berlin, Md 21811. Described As Lot 11 15246 Sq Ft Brittany Lane Ph 1 Brittany Lane Sub Sec B. Assessment $329,100. Total Due

$13,238.73.

Acct#03091570 Assessed To Snyder Claude & Snyder Deborah A. Located At 73 Boston Dr Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot B-11161 10343 Sq Ft Gloucester Rd Pl Ocean Pines Sec 11. Assessment $285,100. Total Due $6,042.87.

Acct#10280168 Assessed To Solibakke Richard C & Janice. Located At 13908 Wight St 0207 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 207 Z Btw 139th & 140th Sts Pelican Beach CM. Assessment $599,133. Total Due $18,343.82.

Acct#10367654 Assessed To Soper Shawn J & Patricia M Martin. Located At 9815 Stephen Decatur Hwy 00200 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 20 P 3 R-707 South Point Village CM. Assessment $198,967. Total Due $1,653.36

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 $155,200. Total Due $3,446.84.

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 $197,133. Total Due $7,700.91.

Acct#10241847 Assessed To Spinnato Michael D & Kathleen F Spinnato. Located At 3701 Coastal Hwy 0315C Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 315 B C P 2 Coastal Hwy Bradley On The Bay CM. Assessment $250,567. Total Due $7,417.26.

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 $24,367. Total Due $656.68.

Acct#10129117 Assessed To Steifel Thomas R Jr. Located At 134 Captains Quarters Rd 0001 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 1 Captains Quarters Rd Care Free Bay CM. Assessment $198,933. Total Due $5,474.68.

Acct#03108821 Assessed To Stipa John D Jr. Located At 12 Robin Hood Trl Ocean Pines, Md 21811. Described As Lot B-10-1096 9000 Sq Ft Robin Hood Trail Pl Ocean Pines Sec 10. Assessment $234,700. Total Due $5,016.42.

Acct#10327563 Assessed To Stritzinger Sarah Jane. Located At 12626 Sunset Ave 0033E Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 33 B E R611 & Sunset Ave Sunset Village CM. Assessment $194,800. Total Due $1,332.70.

Acct#10168449 Assessed To Switek Jason & Switek Karen M. Located At 2 137th St 0103 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 103 137th & Wight Sts Ahoy CM. Assessment $170,267. Total Due $5,403.37.

Acct#01029320 Assessed To Tatterson Erle. Located At 2035 Bypass Rd Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 75 1/2' X 150' W Side Md-359 Pocomoke. Assessment $78,767. Total Due $1,858.75.

Acct#08001367 Assessed To Tay-

lor Jason & Taylor Jessica. Located At 5661 Dukes Rd Girdletree, Md 21829. Described As 126' X 270' N Side Dukes Rd Girdletree. Assessment $73,900. Total Due $1,763.29.

Acct#01022970 Assessed To Taylor Kevin E. Located At 109 Fourth St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 60 X 160 E Side 109 Fourth St Pocomoke. Assessment $62,433. Total Due $2,724.69.

Acct#01021311 Assessed To Taylor Lisa Bynum. Located At 506 Walnut St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 66' X 148' S Side 506 Walnut St Pocomoke. Assessment $97,267. Total Due $3,827.69.

Acct#03016676 Assessed To Thawley A Michelle. Located At 325 Main St Berlin, Md 21811. Described As 14800 Sq Ft South Side R-818 East Side N Main St. Assessment $266,200. Total Due $6,883.23.

Acct#10176530 Assessed To Thoman Richard A Jr & Thoman Lori A Etal. Located At 2 144th St 0104 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 104 144th & 145th Sts 144 East Oceanside CM. Assessment $232,400. Total Due $7,205.22.

Acct#10224268 Assessed To Thomas D Lowther & Diane E Lowther Lowther Thomas D Trustee. Located At 10 140th St 0102 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 102 140th St Sea Bird Cm. Assessment $185,467. Total Due $5,782.00.

Acct#03030431 Assessed To Timmons James B. Located At 303 Bay St Berlin, Md 21811. Described As 65 X 150 N Side 303 Bay Street Berlin. Assessment $212,200. Total Due $8,075.63.

Acct#04002636 Assessed To Tindley Fletcher. Located At 7719 Tindley Rd Newark, Md 21841. Described As 30 5 Acs Dirickson Farm N Side Labor Camp Road. Assessment $100,833. Total Due $2,286.41.

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 $137,000. Total Due $3,178.15.

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 8 Blk 20 Sec B N/S Salisbury Rd Pl Cape Isle Of Wight. Assessment $208,933. Total Due $5,002.36.

Acct#01021648 Assessed To Topping Ella D. Located At 607 Laurel St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 68 X 32 N Side 605 Laurel St Pocomoke. Assessment $12,000. Total Due $1,392.88.

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 $33,167. Total Due $1,518.03.

Acct#05002273 Assessed To Travers Christine Helen & Warner Frederick Cornelius. Located At 13358 Selby Rd Bishopville, Md 21813. Described As 20.52 Acs E Side Selby Rd Bndy Ln Adj 235/28 &235/. Assessment $354,600. Total Due $7,721.17. Acct#01011782 Assessed To Tull

Kevin Lamont & Marcella Barnes Tull. Located At 3631 Brantley Rd Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 198' X 330' N Side Brantley Road S Of Pocomoke. Assessment $60,267. Total Due $1,521.71.

Acct#08004668 Assessed To Ulrich Sandra. Located At 5641 George Island Landing Rd Stockton, Md 21864. Described As Lot Geo Island Landing Rd Stockton. Assessment $85,633. Total Due $21,128.08.

Acct#08005419 Assessed To Vaccaro John P & Pansy H. Located At 5554 Stockton Rd Stockton, Md 21864. Described As 5.326 Acs S Side Pocomoke Road Stockton. Assessment $139,367. Total Due $2,815.99.

Acct#01018426 Assessed To Wan World Group LLC. Located At 211 Walnut St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 50' X 201' N Side 211 Walnut St Pocomoke. Assessment $114,633. Total Due $3,666.78.

Acct#10259983 Assessed To Ward Only Properties LLC. Located At 6401 Atlantic Ave 0407 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U 407 Atlantic Ave Surfs Edge CM. Assessment $418,800. Total Due $12,353.71.

Acct#03010317 Assessed To Waters Edward William & Waters Jerdeane Smith. Located At 10311 Griffin Rd Berlin, Md 21811. Described As 1 Ac N Side Griffin Rd Ne Of Berlin. Assessment $66,000. Total Due $1,785.49.

Acct#03007812 Assessed To Waters Jerdeane Krauskolph Smith. Located At 10339 Georgetown Rd Berlin, Md 21811. Described As 10,890 +/- Sq Ft S Side Georgetown Rd NE Of Berlin. Assessment $64,500. Total Due $1,752.78.

Acct#08002541 Assessed To Waters Ricky & Antoinette Harmon. Located At 2642 Snow Hill Rd Girdletree, Md 21829. Described As Lot E Side R-12 Girdletree. Assessment $69,567. Total Due $1,498.34.

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 $332,033. Total Due $9,636.53.

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 $105,333. Total Due $4,285.00.

Acct#01015605 Assessed To Whitney Licurtis. Located At 108 Oak St Pocomoke, Md 21851. Described As 70' X 140' S Side 108 Oak Street Pocomoke. Assessment $20,200. Total Due $1,077.84.

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 $306,500. Total Due $5,252.65.

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 $385,500. Total Due $8,165.37.

Acct#10002729 Assessed To William E Byrd III Revocable Trust Byrd William E III. Located At

12612 Sheffield Rd Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As Lot 11 Blk 11 Sec A 60 X 125 Shiffield Rd Pl Cape Isle Of Wight. Assessment $393,633. Total Due $1,198.16.

Acct#10046114 Assessed To Williams Patricia M For Life. Located At 2608 Baltimore Ave 000B0 Ocean City, Md 21842. Described As U B-2 Btw 26th & 27th Sts Cabana CM. Assessment $225,400. Total Due $6,842.32.

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 $147,967. Total Due $4,376.15.

TERMS OF SALE

All bidders must register. Registration for the sale begins at 10:00 a.m. April 18th and ends promptly at 4:00 p.m. May 2rd. 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 16th 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, encumbrances, 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.

PHILLIP G. THOMPSON TREASURER AND FINANCE OFFICER

FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND AND COLLECTOR OF STATE AND COUNTY TAXES FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND OCD-4/10/4t

KIRK G. SIMPKINS ESQ. SIMPKINS & SIMPKINS, P.A. P.O. BOX 550 PRINCESS ANNE, MD 21853

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20445 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF PAUL S. TAYLOR

AKA: PAUL STEWART TAYLOR

Notice is given that Betsy V. Winslow, 113 Skyview Dr., Luray, VA 22835-4807, was on April 02, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Paul S. Taylor who died on October 19, 2024, with a will.

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

All 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 2nd day of October, 2025.

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.

Betsy V. Winslow

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 17, 2025

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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of CONNIE D. MERRIMAN Estate No. 20609 Notice is given that DAWN LACEY MERRIMAN PEPPLER whose address is 30337 MALLARD DR., DELMAR, MD 21875-2403 was on APRIL 11, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of CONNIE D. MERRIMAN who died on MARCH 29, 2025 with a will.

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

All 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 11th day of OCTOBER, 2025

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE

SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

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GINA D. SHAFFER, ESQ. SHAFFER LAW OFFICE, LLC 11033 CATHELL RD. BERLIN, MD 21811-9328

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons

Council of Co-Owners of Boardwalk One, Inc. c/o Ayrika Fletcher, Trustee 4709 Harford Road Baltimore, Maryland 21214 (443) 672.8107

COUNCIL OF CO-OWNERS OF BOARDWALK ONE, INC.

P.O. Box 762

Ocean City, Maryland 21842

Plaintiff, v. Hilda Brown, et al. Defendants IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-24-000216

NOTICE

ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland this 10th day of April, 2025, that the foreclosure sale of the properties mentioned in these proceedings, made and reported by Ayrika Fletcher, Trustee, be

RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 12th day of May, 2025, provided a copy of this Order be inserted in some weekly newspaper printed in Worcester County, Maryland once in each of three successive weeks, before the 5th day of May, 2025. The Report of Sale filed in the above case states the amount of the sales to be as indicated below for the referenced time-share interval:

TIMESHARES SOLD:

BW1 = Council of Co-Owners of Boardwalk One, Inc. Condominium Unit Time Interval Price

es-

True Copy

Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, MD

Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD

tate of JOAN M. KERNO Estate No. 20605 Notice is given that TEDDI KERNO whose address is 1808 LANG DR., CROFTON, MD 211142146; ROBERT S. KERNO JR. whose address is 1808 LANG DR., CROFTON, MD 21114-2146 were on APRIL 08, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOAN M. KERNO who died on JUNE 23, 2024 with a will.

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

All 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 8th day of OCTOBER, 2025. 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 pre-

sented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County

ONE W MARKET STREET

ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE

SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

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NOTICE

OF INTRODUCTION OF BILL 25-02

WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

Take Notice that Bill 25-02 (County Government – County Real and Personal Property and County Buildings) was introduced by Commissioners Abbott, Bertino, Elder, Fiori, Mitrecic, and Purnell on April 1, 2025.

A fair summary of the bill is as follows:

The bill amends Section 4-404 of the County Government Article of the County Code to refine restrictions on camping at certain locations including County property, clarifying the ability of the County to remove abandoned personal property on County and other property, and making violations of this provision a misdemeanor rather than a civil citation.

A Public Hearing

will be held on Bill 25-02 at the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Room 1101 – Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at 10:30 a.m.

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

THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

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NOTICE

OF PUBLIC HEARING WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS AGENDA

THURSDAY MAY 8, 2025

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

The public is invited to view this meeting live online at -

https://worcestercountymd.swagit.co m/live

6:30 p.m. Case No. 25-30, on the lands of Angela Gould and Joseph O’Boyle, on the application of Kristina Watkowski, requesting a variance to the front yard setback from 50 feet to the center of the road right-of-way to 45.1 feet (to encroach 4.9 feet) for a 48 s.f. proposed deck in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-206(b)(2) and ZS 1305, located at 12417 Meadow Drive, Tax Map 33, Parcel 346, Lots 41, 42 and 43, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland. The requested variance is in addition to previous setback variances granted by the Board for a replacement residence, a proposed addition and an open deck.

6:35 p.m. Case No. 25-27, on the lands of Cody Gankiewicz and Natalie Daronco, requesting a variance to the side yard setback from 8 feet to 2.7 feet (to encroach 5.3 feet) and the rear yard setback from 30 feet to 18 feet (to encroach 12 feet) for a proposed deck, pergola and steps in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(4), ZS 1-206(b)(2) and ZS 1305, located at 51 Quarter Staff Place, Ocean Pines, Tax Map 21, Parcel 224, Section 10, Lot 651, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:40 p.m. Case No. 25-29, on the lands of Beth and Louis LaBrunda, requesting a variance to the rear yard setback from 30 feet to 15 feet (to encroach 15 feet) for a proposed above-ground swimming pool with a surrounding deck 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 at 41 White Sail Circle, Ocean Pines, Tax Map 16, Parcel 38, Section 1, Lot 584, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:45 p.m. Case No. 25-32, on the lands of William Orr and Annette Clark, requesting a variance to the front yard setback on Dixie Drive from 35 feet to 4 feet (to encroach 31 feet) for a proposed shed in the R-1 Rural Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-205(b)(2) and ZS 1-305, located at 11211 Tammy Terrace, Tax Map 10, Parcel 181, Lot 19, Tax District 5, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:50 p.m. Case No. 25-28, on the lands of Bishop Buildings LLC, on the application of Beach House Crossfit (dba BHCF LLC), requesting an ATF special exception for a personal service establishment (health club and exercise facility) in the I-1 Light Industrial District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(3), ZS 1-212(c)(12) and ZS 1-305, located at 12040 Industrial Park Road, Tax Map 10, Parcel 200, Lot 5A, Tax District 5, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:55 p.m. Case No. 25-31, on the lands of Solito Properties LLC, on the application of Patrick Brady, requesting two (2) special exceptions for an agritourism facility and the accessory use of a principal agricultural structure or use of land for the commercial hosting of non-agricultural functions and events in the A1 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3), ZS 1-

201(c)(9), ZS 1-201(c)(32) and ZS 1305, located at 11010 Worcester Highway, Tax Map 15, Parcel 256, Lot 2, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

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B. RANDALL COATES ESQ COATES, COATES, & COATES 204 WEST GREEN STREET P O BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of KATHLEEN DOROTHY MCCONNELL AKA: KATHLEEN D MARSHALL Estate No. 20618 Notice is given that THOMAS E MARSHALL whose address is 203 S CHURCH ST SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1205 was on APRIL 16, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of KATHLEEN DOROTHY MCCONNELL who died on JANUARY 17, 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 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 16th day of OCTOBER, 2025. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20616

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF CHARLES W. ARNOLD

Notice is given that Katie Arnold Wernick, 12003 Citrus Grove Rd., North Potomac, MD 20878-4913, was on April 15, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Charles W. Arnold who died on March 12, 2025, with a will.

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

All 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 15th day of October, 2025.

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.

Katie Arnold Wernick 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 24, 2025

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NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20614 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF KATHLEEN G. MALONEY

AKA: KATHLEEN M. PROTOS

Notice is given that Christopher W. Protos, 7407 Bear Branch Rd., Adamstown, MD 21710-8534, was on April 14, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Kathleen G. Maloney who died on April 07, 2025, with a will.

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

All 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 14th day of October, 2025.

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.

Christopher W. Protos

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 24, 2025

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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 8, 2025 2:00 PM

Second Insertion Due to Inaccurate Measurement Posted Previously PW 25-028 A request has been submitted to install 40’ of replacement vinyl bulkheading not to exceed 18” channel ward; and to replace existing dock with a new 7’ x 40’ parallel dock and replace existing perpendicular pier with a new 6’ x 44’ pier; and to install one boatlift with associated pilings maximum channelward 50’ for all work. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 187 PINE TREE RD Parcel # 8020A1309B in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Pine Tree Road, LLC, c/o Ken Meckley

APPLICANT: McGinty Marine

Construction

PW 25-031 A request has been submitted to install one boat lift with associated pilings maximum channelward extension of 26’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 8906 RUSTY ANCHOR RD UNIT 15 Parcel # 9079 -15 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

PUBLIC NOTICE

The motor vehicles described below have been abandoned. The owners and lien holders are hereby informed of their right to reclaim the vehicles upon payment of all charges and costs resulting from the towing, preservation, and storage of the vehicles.

The failure of the owners or lien holders to reclaim the vehicles within three weeks of notification shall be deemed a waiver by the owners or lien holders of all rights, title and interest and thereby consent to the sale of the vehicles at public auction or to have it otherwise disposed of in a manner provided by law.

These three weeks of notification begins on DATE: 04/25/2025

AUTH: Ray Austin Chief of Police

OWNER: Eustratios Kossis

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart

PW 25-032 A request has been submitted to install two (2) PWC lifts on existing piles maximum channelward extension 25’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 13337 PEACH TREE RD Parcel # 8020A1268B- in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Douglas Grimes

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart

PW 25-033 A request has been submitted to install a new 3’ x 20’ finger pier to create an “L” extension to an existing 6’x 30’ pier and to move 4 existing pilings; maximum channelward extension 42’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 1518 TEAL DR Parcel # 3429 -33 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT/OWNER: Evan Niemkiewicz

PW 25-034 A request has been submitted to install one 5’ x 14’ PWC float and one 6’ x 14’ float in an existing slip, maximum channelward extension of 17’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 2205 PHILADELPHIA AVE UNIT 202E – Slip 48, Parcel # 4236 -E202 - in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Carmine Gagliardi

APPLICANT: Hidden Oak Farm, LLC

PW 25-035 A request has been submitted to construct a new 5’ x 45’ pier and install one boatlift with associated pilings, maximum channelward extension 45’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 257 S OCEAN DR Parcel # 8020A-1593B-in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Bryan and Carolyn Biggins

APPLICANT: Kayla Short

PW 25-036 A request has been submitted to construct a temporary 12’ x 12’ floating platform to be in-

stalled from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend 40’ channelward of the MHW line. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 8203 COASTAL HWY Parcel # 0128A-6 -101 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: RWOC Properties, LLC/Ropewalk

APPLICANT: Image Engineering OCD-4/24/2t

B. RANDALL COATES ESQ. COATES, COATES, & COATES 204 WEST GREEN STREET P.O. BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20621 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF WILLIE JOE JACKSON JR.

Notice is given that Mary A. Jackson, 4971 Retreat Ln., Snow Hill, MD 21863-2570, was on April 21, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Willie Joe Jackson Jr. who died on February 25, 2025, without a will.

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

All 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 21st day of October, 2025.

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.

Mary A. Jackson 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 24, 2025

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NOTICE

OF PUBLIC HEARING BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS TOWN OF OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110 of the Code of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Zoning Ordinance for Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted by the Board of Zoning Appeals for

Ocean City, Maryland in the Council Chambers of City Hall located on Baltimore Avenue and Third Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on:

Thursday, May 8, 2025 AT 6:00 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an application has been filed under Section 110-94(1) to request a special use exception for a temporary sales tent event for Donaway Furniture not to exceed 5 years. The property is described as Lots 1, 2, 3, 11, 12, 13 & 14, Block 89, of the Fenwick Plat. It is further described as being located on the northwest corner of Coastal Highway and 130th Street and is locally known as Donaway Furniture located at 13001 Coastal Highway, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: TRIDENT FURNISHINGS (BZA 2715 #2509400003)

Further information concerning the public hearings may be examined in the office of the Department of Planning and Community Development in City Hall.

Christopher Rudolf, Chairman Maureen Howarth, Attorney OCD-4/24/2t

VICTOR A LEMBO SIMS & CAMPBELL LLC

181 HARRY S TRUMAN PKWY STE 150 ANNAPOLIS, MD 21401-7565

SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of YOKO WALKER Estate No. 20628 Notice is given that DAVID G WALKER whose address is 10128 52ND AVE COLLEGE PARK, MD 20740-1124 was on APRIL 24, 2025 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of YOKO WALKER who died on JANUARY 19, 2025 with a will.

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

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

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or

(2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claims will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within

thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE

SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

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VICTOR A LEMBO SIMS & CAMPBELL LLC

181 HARRY S TRUMAN PKWY STE 150

ANNAPOLIS, MD 21401-7565

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of GEORGE MURRELL WALKER Estate No. 20626 Notice is given that DAVID G WALKER whose address is 10128 52ND AVE COLLEGE PARK, MD 20740-1124 was on APRIL 24, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of GEORGE MURRELL WALKER who died on SEPTEMBER 18, 2023 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 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 24th day of OCTOBER, 2025

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY

ONE W MARKET STREET

ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE

SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

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REGAN J. R. SMITH ESQ

WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON LLP

3509 COASTAL HWY

OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3334

SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of MARIA LOUISA CERRATO

Estate No. 20630 Notice is given that SCOTT SCHOELLKOPF whose address is 20 POPLAR TRL OCEAN PINES, MD 21811-1664 was on APRIL 25, 2025 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of MARIA LOUISA CERRATO who died on FEBRUARY 13, 2025 without a will.

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

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

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or

(2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claims will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-5/1/1t

SOUTRY D. SMITH ATTNY HASSANI, FOCAS & FIFER P.A. 1447 YORK RD., STE. 800 LUTHERVILLE, MD 21093-6089

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20624 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF RUTH ELEANOR KOVELL

Notice is given that Thomas Kovell, 129 Taft Dr., Unit 202, Sarasota, FL 34236-3344 and Debra A. Lundy, 3803 Proctor Ln., Nottingham, MD 21236-4748, were on April 28, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ruth Eleanor Kovell who died on March 25, 2025, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 28th day of October, 2025.

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.

Thomas Kovell

Debra A. Lundy Personal Representatives 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: May 01, 2025

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SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20612 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF EDWIN EARL HICKLE

Notice is given that James Hickle, 2425 Ownby Ln., Richmond, VA 23220-1320, was on April 25, 2025 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Edwin Earl Hickle who died on March 29, 2025, with a will.

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

All persons 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 deliv-

ery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

James Hickle

Personal Representative True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott

One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest

Date of publication: May 01, 2025

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SMALL ESTATE NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20625 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ALAN ROBERT BOWMASTER

Notice is given that Ann Robin Datz, 1319 William St., Glen Burnie, MD 21061-4532, was on April 24, 2025 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Alan Robert Bowmaster who died on September 02, 2023, 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 persons 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.

Ann Robin Datz Personal Representative True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest

Date of publication: May 01, 2025

SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of BARBARA ANN TOMPKINS Estate No. 20629 Notice is given that MELAINE TOMPKINS MURRELL whose address is 6 TORTOLA LN., BERLIN, MD 21811-1705 was on APRIL 24, 2025 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of BARBARA ANN TOMPKINS who died on JANUARY 28, 2025 with a will.

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

All persons 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-5/1/1t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of DOUGLAS ALAN ROSS Estate No. 20623 Notice is given that THOMAS G. ROSS whose address is 118 W. WATER ST., P.O. BOX 119, CENTREVILLE, MD 21617-1031 was on APRIL 22, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of DOUGLAS ALAN ROSS who died on MARCH 21, 2025 with a will.

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

All 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 22nd day of OCTOBER, 2025

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-5/1/3t

CYNTHIA B. MACDONALD ESQ

208 CALVERT ST P. O. BOX 33 SALISBURY, MD 21803

SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20634 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF GERALD L. COSGROVE

Notice is given that Kathleen C. Shaffer, 10200 Barn Hill Dr., Collierville, TN 38017-8942, was on April 28, 2025 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Gerald L. Cosgrove who died on December 31, 2018, 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 persons 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 un-

enforceable thereafter.

Kathleen C. Shaffer

Personal Representative

True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott

One W. Market Street

Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest

Date of publication: May 01, 2025

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NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of PAMELA ANN JOHNSON Estate No. 20606 Notice is given that ANTHONY PATRICK JOHNSON whose address is 35 HARBORMIST CIR., BERLIN, MD 21811-1805 was on APRIL 09, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of PAMELA ANN JOHNSON who died on OCTOBER 27, 2024 with a will.

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

All 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 9th day of OCTOBER, 2025

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-4/17/3t _________________________________

CYNTHIA B. MACDONALD ESQ 208 CALVERT ST P. O. BOX 33 SALISBURY, MD 21803

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of MARY E COSGROVE AKA: MARY V COSGROVE Estate No. 20635 Notice is given that KATHLEEN C SHAFFER whose address

is 10200 BARN HILL DR COLLIERVILLE, TN 38017-8942 was on APRIL 28, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MARY E COSGROVE who died on APRIL 02, 2025 with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 28th day of OCTOBER, 2025

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-5/1/3t

Garrett M. Fitzgerald, Esq. #1212110279

The Fitzgerald Law Group PO Box 3000 Easton, MD 21601

Telephone ( 410) 690-4948 Gfitzlaw@gmail.com

Attorney for the Plaintiff

SINAN CESUR Plaintiff v.

WESLEY HEIRS MISTER

WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

S/O Roscoe R. Leslie, Esq.

STATE OF MARYLAND Office of the Attorney General

S/O Anthony Brown, Anorney General

All persons who have or claim to have any interest in the Tax Rolls of the Finance Officer and Collector of State Taxes for WORCESTER COUNTY as follows:

LOT NORTH SIDE FLOWER ST N E OF BERLIN

Defendants IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND CASE N0.: C-23-CV-25-000092

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this proceeding is to secure foreclosure of all rights of redemption from tax sale on the property known as LOT NORTH SIDE FLOWER ST N E OF BERLIN, sold by the Finance Officer of WORCESTER COUNTY, State of Maryland, to SINAN CESUR, the Plaintiff.

A description of the property in substantially the same form as the description appearing on the Certificate of Tax Sale is as follows: LOT ORTH SIDE FLOWER ST NE OF BERLIN

The Complaint states, among other things, that the amount necessary for redemption has not been paid.

It is thereupon this 28th of April, 2025, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, ORDERED that notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this Order in some newspaper having a general circulation once a week for three consecutive weeks, warning all persons interested in the property to appear before this Court by the 27th day of June, 2025, and redeem the property and answer the Complaint or thereafter a final judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property and vesting title to the property in the Plaintiff, free of all liens and encumbrances.

Beau H. Oglesby Judge, Circuit Court for WORCESTER COUNTY

True Copy

Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD

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REHABBED SEALS RELEASED

Assateague State Park, in collaboration with the National Aquarium, recently hosted a seal release event, pictured above. Two juvenile gray seals, found stranded near Lewes, Delaware, were rehabilitated at the aquarium before their return to the ocean. As part of the releas e event, officials are reminding people who encounter a stranded seal to stay at least 150 feet away and to report the sighting to the Stranding Network Hotline at 410546-3880.

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PHOTO COURTESY MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

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Real estate report confirms unease over housing status

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer

(May 2, 2025) Maryland REALTORS® releases a State of Housing poll annually that helps to quantify Marylander’s feelings on housing and the real estate market. This past January was the 5th edition of the poll, and was a random sample of 800 respondents statewide.

Slim plurality see state as off on the wrong track; voters have been steadily less positive year after year since 2020; in 2025 Md residents are pretty split on this topic with 46% feeling things are going in the right direction and 48% feel are not on the right track

When asked what they feel is the biggest issue they would like the governor and state legislature to focus on, the top two items were housing affordability and taxes/property taxes at number two on the list.

On the question, is the cost to buy a house in your part of Md too high, about right or too low—only 13% said “about right” and 84% of the respon-

dents said too high.

On the issue of housing affordability and supply, the survey showed that only 18% gave the state government a “good” rating, 40% “just fair” and 36% said “poor”.

Respondents felt that there was “too little” of housing: 75% stated too little for younger people and those just getting started in their careers in their part of Md.; 67% stated too little housing for people with low incomes in their part of Md.

Under the Personal Impact and Housing Cost Strain section of the poll, six in ten feel financially strained by monthly mortgage or rent payment—61% stated under “strain” vs 38% not under “strain”.

Nearly 1/3 have thought about moving out of the state because of high housing costs: 32% considering moving out of the state in 2025 vs the 2024 poll at 23%.

Surrounding obstacles in buying a home, the top listed items were low wages, interest rates, down payment and construction costs.

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

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Wallace outlines vision for schools as chosen leader

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(May 2, 2025) Annette Wallace was announced as the next superintendent of Worcester County Public Schools last week, replacing predecessor Lou Taylor. The appointment marks Wallace as the first woman to hold the position in Worcester.

The announcement was made on April 24 at a special Worcester County Board of Education meeting. Wallace graduated from Snow Hill High School, served as a math teacher at Stephen Decatur High School, became an assistant principal and then principal at Pocomoke High School, and accepted a position as chief operating officer in 2018.

According to a press release issued by the school system earlier this month announcing Wallace as a finalist, the new superintendent holds degrees in mathematics, school leadership, and educational leadership. As the PHS principal, Wallace doubled AP enrollment and improved student pass rates. She also launched Project 100, an initiative to increase access to postsecondary education.

Wallace’s appointment follows the position-holder, Lou Taylor’s retirement announcement in January, effective June 30. Taylor was named the school system leader in 2o16. He signed a second four-year contract in 2020, but opted not to renew this year. The first female to take on the role will step up at the end of this school year, following Taylor’s last day.

Worcester County Board of Education President Todd Ferrante said that around 10 p.m. on April 23, the board held a closed session to conduct final interviews for the superintendent vacancy. Wallace was selected to take on the role.

“This will be effective July 1, when [Taylor] steps down,” Ferrante said. “The motion was made by William Gordy and seconded by William Buchanan. The motion carried a 6-1 vote with Katie Addis opposed.”

Upon word of Taylor’s retirement, the Worcester County Board of Education solicited input from the school system community to create a list of ideal characteristics of the next superintendent. Using the information, the board developed qualifications and reviewed the applications received. Inperson interviews were conducted on April 7, after which two finalists were selected: Wallace and Monique Wheatley-Phillip of Baltimore County.

The candidates completed a Day in the District on Tuesday, April 22, and Wednesday, April 23. This included meet-and-greets with elected officials,

Annette Wallace

Ocean Downs employees planning protest

Casino: ‘We are committed to facilitating a democratic vote’ for table game staff

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(May 2, 2025) Employees of Ocean Downs Casino say they’ll form a picket line outside the building tomorrow to draw attention to alleged unfair wages and attempts to quash unionization efforts for the casino’s table games dealers.

The protest against casino owner Churchill Downs Inc. is being organized by Unite Here, the nation’s largest gaming workers union. Members allege the casino not only has refused to sit down with employees who wish to unionize but has attempted to threaten and intimidate those who

do, which would be a violation of the National Labor Relations Act.

“We’ve had managers say to workers, if you push for the union, we’ll shut down table games and you won’t have a job,” said Unite Here representative Roxie Herbekian. “We think Churchill Downs is not keeping up its end of the bargain by allowing them to organize the way every other casino worker in the state is allowed to organize.”

The union is also alleging that some dealers have been forced to work as supervisors, which means they must forgo tips, and has accused the casino of forcing staffers to attend “captive audience” meetings to convince them they should not be organizing.

Online records show that Local 7 has filed two complaints with the Na-

tional Labor Relations Board against the casino under its business name, Ocean Enterprise 589, LLC. A complaint filed March 12 alleges interrogation, coercive statements, and coercive rules. Local 7 filed a second complaint on March 25, alleging coercive action and surveillance.

The May 3 picket line will be on public property on Racetrack Road starting at 9 a.m. Herbekian described the effort as “informational” – to let the public know that dealers lack have union representation, and that they rely on tips for wages because their hourly pay rate of $5 is lower than other dealers in the state.

In a statement, Churchill Downs Inc., spokeswoman Tonya Abeln said the organization respects the rights of table games employees to “organize and support their right to make in-

formed decisions through a fair and confidential voting process.”

“Ocean Downs table games Team Members have requested the right to participate in a secret-ballot election. They have requested that management refrain from recognizing the union based solely on authorization cards. In alignment with their wishes and in compliance with the National Labor Relations Act, we are committed to facilitating a democratic vote. We also encourage the Unite Here union to honor the wishes of our table games employees," she said.

Since Ocean Downs opened in 2011 as a slots-only casino, Unite Here’s Baltimore-based Local 7 branch has represented a group of workers there, according to Herbekian; she said its union contract comes up for renegotiation in October.

When the casino in 2017 added table games like blackjack, poker and roulette, all other Ocean Downs employees already were unionized, but an incoming group of about 50 tables games dealers were not. Now, Herbekian said, they want union representation.

Other casino workers in Maryland have a “labor peace” agreement, a signed document in which the employer and labor agree that management will bargain in good faith with the union if a majority of employees join. Such an agreement also would include stipulations against picketing and badmouthing, Herbekian added.

Cynthia Carmichael, an Ocean Downs table games dealer since 2019, said she plans to join the picket line Saturday alongside other dealers. After four years and 3% annual raises, her hourly pay is up to $5.98. But expenses like gas, rent, and groceries are now outstripping her income.

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Fair casino pay the goal of demonstration this Saturday

“The vast majority of our money is derived from our wonderful customers who give us tips,” she said. “We’re working hard but slowly slipping behind, if that makes any sense.”

Carmichael is already a union member after having worked in a different part of the casino. She said Local 7 already includes more than 100 people who work at the casino in various departments, she said.

“They got it by simply filing out the cards they were supposed to fill out and that was it,” she said. “Once (the casino) realized we were starting to regroup and reorganize, have them start filling out the cards, there was a lot of rumors telling us table games would be shut down and things like that. It’s caused a lot of unrest and, at times, misinformation.”

She mentioned that other table games dealers at other Maryland casinos are unionized.

“All we want is a fair, peaceful, and democratic process that everyone else has been afforded. Here on the Eastern Shore, we deserve it. I truly believe in my heart of hearts that Ocean Downs will come around and let us do this,” Carmichael said.

It’s no coincidence, Herbekian added, that the union is running a picket line outside the racetrack on

horse racing’s biggest day, the Kentucky Derby, the first race of the Triple Crown. The Derby is hosted at the famed Churchill Downs racetrack in Louisville, from which the ownership company gets its name.

“We believe we will be successful because we’re not going to give up until these workers’ rights are respected. We don’t want to let them down. We are going to stick with them. I do think all the workers will be stronger with everyone together,” Herbekian said.

Joining Local 7 on the picket line will be about 30 people from local activist group Shore Progress, according to founder Jared Schablein. He said the moment is an opportunity for solidarity.

“What we’re hearing from workers coming to our meetings is, they’re getting the lowest pay in the state,” he said. “They’re told, ‘well, the Eastern Shore is cheaper.’ But if you look at the cost of housing and childcare, it’s just as expensive as anywhere else.”

Schablein added that “every Shore worker deserves the same pay and benefits as their Western Shore colleagues. We’re not people you can walk over and treat like dirt … We’re hoping Churchill Downs will come to the table and do the right thing.”

History made with Wallace pick

a question-and-answer session with local media, and round-table discussions with stakeholder groups. Each day, the board received feedback and conducted a final interview with the whole board. After the Day in the District sessions, the board deliberated and ultimately selected Wallace as the next superintendent of WCPS.

“We have chosen the best possible candidate to lead us in the future of Worcester County Public Schools,” Ferrante said. “Wallace is no stranger to Worcester County…We look forward to working with Wallace throughout this transition and beyond for the education system.”

Wallace spoke at the special meeting announcing her appointment. She began by sharing a quote from the late Pope Francis: "Rivers do not drink their own water, trees do not eat their own fruit, the sun does not shine upon itself, and flowers do not spread fragrance for themselves. Living for others is the rule of nature. We are here to serve.”

The new school system leader thanked the board for their confidence in her ability and promised to turn her attention to “the most valuable and important asset, the children.”

“My journey with WCPS began many years ago as a student,” Wallace continued. “Since then, I have had the privilege to learn from extraordinary educators,

collaborate with dedicated staff and bus contractors, and lead alongside visionary school leaders. We are united in service. Grounded in the belief that all students can learn and achieve, and together, we are Worcester. The phrase, ‘together we are Worcester,’ was inspired by the Latin phrase, ‘out of many, we are one.’ Each of us is a thread in the vibrant tapestry of WCPS. Without any of those individual threads, we would be weaker and far less beautiful.”

Wallace said that under her leadership, the school system will remain committed to the mission of each student with a “high-quality education that meets the needs of the whole child.” Every student, she said, will be reading on grade level by grade three, which is a vital milestone to ensure academic success. Wallace added that she intends to lead WCPS with the priority of helping all students pursue higher education, including trade school, military service, or college or university.

“We achieve this by knowing every student by name, by strength, " she said. “We will listen to each other, compromise with each other when we need to, work together in unity, and stay focused on what we can achieve together. We will do whatever it takes for every child to reach the finish line, because united, there is nothing we cannot accomplish.”

Ferrante concluded the meeting by

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

CUM LAUDE INDUCTIONS

The William E. Esham, Jr. Chapter of the prestigious Cum Laude Society at Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) welcomed three new members during a ceremony on Thursday, April 24. The new inductees are seniors Ryan Mann, Travis Netting and Landon Schul. The Cum Laude Society is a national organization founded in 1906 that honors the world’s academic excellence in secondary schools to promote excellence (Arete´), justice (Dike´), and honor (Time´). WPS is the only school on the Eastern Shore with an established Cum Laude Chapter where superior scholastic achievement is honored. Pictured, front from left, are Netting and Schul (Mann not present); and, back, Upper School Social Science teacher Paul Cyryca, Head of Upper School Carol Evans and Upper School English Department Chair Liz Nally.

‘We will do whatever it takes’

Continued from Page 78

recognizing Wallace as the first woman to hold the superintendent position in Worcester County.

“I think that’s significant,” he said.

“I feel confident that Wallace is stepping into this role with a very bright future ahead for our Worcester County Public Schools students and staff.”

Bertino, Bunting continue service fee fight

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(May 2, 2025) Opposing a proposed sewer and water fund budget that would increase quarterly utility rates remains the priority of Ocean Pines and its Worcester County representatives, who held a public meeting last Wednesday that included the threat of legal action.

Convening in the Ocean Pines Library at the invitation of Worcester County Commissioners Chip Bertino and Jim Bunting, who represent Ocean Pines, residents were given the opportunity to express their concerns and ask questions about the budget proposed in March.

The Ocean Pines service area includes Ocean Pines, Pennington Commons, Bay Point Plantation, Pines Plaza, Turville Creek Area, Ocean Downs, and Crabs to Go. Water and sewer are planned for St. Martins and Dolly Circle, yet neither has been constructed.

If passed, the spending plan would raise water and wastewater rates by an estimated $32 a quarter across all 11

county utility districts to alleviate a $2.1 million deficit in fiscal year 2026.

Opponents argue the proposal unfairly targets service areas, like Ocean Pines, that had only a minor impact on the accumulated debt.

Each district’s budget is contained in a separate accounting entity known as an “enterprise fund.” According to Bertino, Ocean Pines’ fund shows a loss of $116,699, which should result in fee increases of only $1 to $3 rather than the intended $32.

By contrast, the shortfall in Riddle Farm’s sewer and water enterprise fund is a little over $1 million.

Bertino and Bunting oppose the presented plan, contending that it would be used as a model to pay back a looming $6 million loan to address budgetary shortfalls within the combined water/wastewater enterprise service areas.

These shortfalls were created by financial inconsistencies with the enterprise fund operations discovered in February 2024 when the county budget office and deputy chief administrative officer were implementing

new procedures.

Bertino said at a special meeting of the Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors in March that following this discovery, it was learned the county finance department neglected to bring to anyone’s attention “accumulated deficits and that the budget transfers were being made on paper from reserves that did not exist in individual areas.”

The commissioners were informed, and to avoid furthering the crisis, they approved a transfer of about $9 million from the general fund to the enterprise fund. While $2.7 million was designated as a grant to the Riddle Farm service area, $6.3 million was provided as a loan with an interest rate of about 5% that would be required to be paid back to the general fund over 10 years beginning in fiscal 2027.

Bertino maintained that the Ocean Pines service area did not contribute to the accrued losses.

plan to make up FY26’s $2.1 million debt is approved, that same process, which raises the fees of ratepayers across all service areas equally despite that area’s actual contribution to the deficit, is likely to be used to address the $6 million loan.

The FY26 plan was created by a water/wastewater discussion group made up of county staff and county commissioners Ted Elder, Eric Fiori, and Bunting. Bertino said the team met three times, and a majority voted to present the proposal on March 18.

Bertino and Bunting have been informing their constituents of the plan in an attempt to halt its passage.

“This is only one proposal, but it is the only proposal put forward to be considered for the budget at this point,” Bertino said. “The reason for that has to do with the timelines and restrictions of putting the budget together. County administration and our budget director had to have something in place to move forward for the public hearing, and this stupid plan was the one the majority of commissioners decided to put forward.”

Rather, $242,000 was given to Edgewater Acres, $790,000 to the Landings, $1,730,000 to Mystic Harbor, $200,000 to Newark, and $3,339,010 to Riddle Farm. This debt must be repaid over 10 years beginning in FY27. The $2,760,177 grant to Riddle Farm does not need to be repaid.

Officials worry that if the spending

Bertino said the proposal is unfair to the service areas that had a small or no impact on the deficit. The other five county commissioners, he said, support the plan.

“What was said by one of the commissioners was, now these are my

OPA attorney threatens legal action

words and not his, ‘Ocean Pines can basically suck it up, it wasn’t all that much money,’” Bertino said. “That’s ridiculous. I don’t care if it’s $1 or $100, it makes no difference. We shouldn’t have to deal with it.”

While spreading the debt repayment across all districts is the only option being considered, Bertino said county staff has created alternative means to address the budgetary issues. One would be to require all service areas to pay for its own usage. Ocean Pines’ water and sewer base fee would increase from $207 to $209 in this case. The commissioner added that this selection “seems fair.”

Furthermore, under the county code, enterprise funds must be selfsupporting, which is in line with Bertino’s alternative choice.

The code reads, “The County Commissioners shall levy assessments by resolution on all properties within the sanitary service area or sub-area for the sole purpose of raising funds to retire any indebtedness of the service area or sub-area incurred for the purpose of acquiring or constructing sanitary facilities.”

While this county code would prohibit the option of raising rates $32 a quarter, Bertino said that the commissioners could tweak the guidelines to allow that choice to be implemented.

Bertino and Bunting argue that the budgetary issues require additional time to resolve, despite support for pushing through a plan that the Ocean Pines commissioners believe is not well thought out.

“Since this conversation started, [County Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young] has been saying that we need to have a longer horizon and timeline to work through these issues,” said Bertino. “[Bunting] and I agree with that. At this point, I don’t know how many other commissioners agree with it because it’s one commissioner who wants to sacrifice Ocean Pines on the altar of political expediency.

“If he could ram this through today, he would … [Young] recognizes that this issue was many years in the making and it can’t be solved in just a month, or two months, or three meetings of a subcommittee that, however well intentioned, came up with a stupid plan.”

The Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors also oppose the proposed plan. On April 22, Bruce Bright of Ayres, Jenkins, Gordy, and Almand, OPA’s legal counsel, released a letter threatening civil litigation if the county proceeds with it.

The letter said the plan “is pursued by a voting majority of the commissioners, is not only grossly unfair to Ocean Pines ratepayers, but just as troubling, would directly violate clear provisions of state and local law, would be contrary to the county water and sewer plan, and would in our

judgement subject the county to costly legal claims not only by OPA and/or its ratepayer members, but also by the ratepayers in other unlawfully and unfairly impacted service areas (e.g., Briddletown, Edgewater Acres, Lighthouse Sound, River Run, and West Ocean City).”

The letter also quotes county code: “water and wastewater facilities and services shall be provided and managed based on separate service areas… The revenue and expenditures for each such area shall be accounted for in a separate enterprise fund in accordance with the financial management rules of the county…”

The letter argues that civil litigation will likely move forward if the plan proceeds.

“If the majority of the commissioners proceed with their unlawful and

unfair plan, and take further deliberate steps in that direction, OPA and other ratepayers would likely initiate civil litigation, and advance claims against the county and certain commissioners, including breach of fiduciary duty, equal protection violation under the Fourteenth Amendment of the US Constitution, for declaratory and injunctive relief, for monetary damages and attorney’s fees, for violation of applicable state and county code provisions, for administrative mandamus, and/or for unlawful taking.”

Bertino, Bunting, and the OPA Board of Directors continue to ask the public to voice their opposition to the controversial proposal. A public hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, May 6, at 6 p.m. in the Government Center in Snow Hill.

Berlin Liquor S

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Battle for Berlin resulted in surrender order

By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer

(May 1, 2025) This week, 80 years ago, Gen. Helmuth Weidling, commander of Berlin Defense Area, surrendered his command and the City of Berlin to General Vasily Chuikov, commander of the Soviet Eighth Guards Army, and defender of Stalingrad.

On the morning of April 20, the round-the-clock bombing of the German capital, by the American Army Air Force and the RAF, ceased. It was almost as if the Allied air forces were allowing the Berliners to enjoy the special rations being distributed for der Führer’s birthday. It certainly had that effect, as the citizens emerged from their cellars, bomb shelters and metro stations, to stand in the food lines. The months’ long bombing campaign had destroyed 6,340 acres of the city and killed 52,000. It was just the opening act for what was to come.

At 2 p.m. that afternoon, artillery of the LXXIX Rifle Corps of the Third Shock Army, commanded by Vasily Ivanovich Kusnetsov, which was a part of First Belorussian Front, commanded by Marshal Georgy Zhukov, began shelling the German capital. The shelling would not cease until the city surrendered. This merely contin-

ued the hell of day and night bombing by the Americans and British — only with the bombing there was a warning before the detonations. The next day, units of Marshal Zhukov’s First Belorussian Front entered the city limits.

Meanwhile, the First Ukranian Front, commanded by Marshal Ivan Konev, and the Second Belorussian Front, commanded by Marshal Konstantin Rokossovsky, were completing the encirclement of the doomed city. Combined strength of the three fronts totaled 2.5 million soldiers, 6,250 tanks and self-propelled guns, 7,500 aircraft and 41,600 artillery pieces. The city’s defenders numbered less than 200,000.

As the noose tightened, and the Red Army reached the outskirts of the city, on April 23, der Führer appointed Gen. Weidling as the commander of the Berlin Defense area. The day before der Führer had ordered his execution for having retreated during the Battle of Seelow Heights! However, that was a “misunderstanding” that was resolved before he was executed, and he was now being promoted.

While this was occurring, the citizens of Berlin huddled in their cellars — terrified — awaiting the hell that they knew was coming. They knew be-

cause they knew that their Wehrmacht had invaded their erstwhile ally — the U.S.S.R. — four years earlier without cause or provocation.

They knew that their Wehrmacht had raped, pillaged, plundered and murdered its way across the great steppes of the U.S.S.R. And they knew that the Red Army was bent on taking full revenge at every opportunity. They knew what had already occurred in the areas of eastern Germany that the Red Army had overrun. And they knew that nothing would save them from the Soviet wrath.

Upon his appointment as commander of the Berlin Defense Area, Gen. Weidling was, of course, ordered to defend the city to the last man, with no surrender. Gen. Weidling told his associates, “I’d rather be shot than have this honor!” The force that he inherited included remnants of the following units: the 20th Panzergrenadier Division, commanded by Majo. Gen. George Scholze; 9th Parachute Division, commanded by Lt. Col. Harry Herman; the Müncheberg Panzer Division, commanded by Maj. Gen. Werner Mummert; the SS Nordland Panzergrenadier Division, comprised, primarily, of Danes and Norwegians, commanded by Joachim

Ziegler; the 18th Panzergrenadier Division, commanded by Maj. Gen. Josef Rauch; and SS Charlemagne Grenadier Division, comprised, primarily, of Frenchmen, commanded by SS-Standartenführer Walter Zimmermann.

Marshal Zhukov’s First Belorussian Front and Marshal Konev’s First Ukranian Front linked on April 25,

Helmuth Weidling in 1943, wearing Knight's Cross

completing the encirclement of the beleagured city.

Templehof Airport was captured the next day, by elements of Gen. Chuikov’s Eighth Guards Army and First Guards Tank Army, commanded by Mikhail Katukov. Late that evening, Gen. Weidling met with Hitler and proposed a break-out from the encircled city. After listening to his proposal, der Führer said, “Your proposal is perfectly all right. But what is the point of it all? I have no intentions of wandering around in the woods. I am staying here, and I will fall at the head of my troops. You, for your part, will carry on with your defense.” The defenders held an area 15 miles long and 1.5 miles wide, at its narrowest.

By April 28, Soviet soldiers were within a half-mile of the Führerbunker. The last two Knight’s Crosses were awarded the next day. One went to Frenchman Eugéne Vaulôt of the SS Charlemagne Grenadier Division and the other to SS Sturmbannführer Friedrich Herzig. Both men earned the decoration for destroying eight Soviet tanks, each.

The next day, the LXXIX Rifle Corps began the battle for the Reichstag, which the Nazis had burned in 1932 and blamed on the Communists. Unknown to the Soviets, the building had not been used since. But Stalin, having seen the effect of the iconic photograph of the flag-raising on Mt. Surabachi, on Iwo Jima, wanted something similar — and he wanted it on May 1. The next day, Soviet soldiers brought 90 heavy guns to begin shelling the building.

Later that morning, Gen. Weidling met, again, with der Führer and explained that the troops would be out of ammunition by nightfall, and again requested permission for his troops to escape the beleagured city. The general was not given an answer and returned to his headquarters. At about 1 a.m., he received der Führer’s permission to break out.

Mikhail Petrovich Minin, of the 150th Rifle Division, commanded by Maj. Gen. Vasily Mitrofanovich Shatilov, was the first Soviet soldier to enter the Reichstag. At 10:40 p.m., on April 30, 1945, he attached the Red Banner to the roof of the building. Since it was dark, there was no photo. For this, Minin was awarded the Order of the Red Banner, “... for extraordinary heroism, dedication, and courage demonstrated on the battlefield.”

On May 1, Gen. Weidling was summoned to the Führerbunker, underneath the Reich Chancellery, where he was informed that der Führer and his new wife had committed suicide. Reichsminister of Propaganda Joseph Goebbels, sent Gen. Hans Krebs and Col. Theodore von Dufeing, Gen. Weidling’s chief-of-staff, to attempt to negotiate with Gen. Chuikov. They arrived before 4 a.m. but the Soviet

general would accept nothing less than unconditional surrender. At 8:30 p.m., the Reichsminister and his wife, Magda, having already poisoned their six children, committed suicide.

That day, Red Army photographer, Ukrainian Yevgeny Khaldei, took the famous photograph of Soviet soldiers raising the Red Banner over the Reichstag, signifying the triumph of the U.S.S.R. over the Third Reich. However, when the photo was developed, it was discovered that the soldier holding the flag was wearing two wristwatches, so they had to be removed from the picture before it could be published. The Soviets did not want the world to think that their soldiers were a bunch of looters! The cost of the photograph was 2,200 Soviet, and 2,500 German soldiers.

Gen. Weidling had his chief-ofstaff arrange a meeting with General Chuikov, which occurred around 8:30

a.m. Gen. Chuikov ordered General Wiedling to, “Write an Order regarding complete capitulation. Then your conscience will be clear.”

Gen. Weidling then wrote, “On 30th April 1945, the Führer committed suicide, and thus abandoned those who had sworn loyalty to him. According to the Führer’s order, you German soldiers would have had to have gone on fighting for Berlin, despite the fact their ammunition has run out and despite the general situation which makes our further resistance meaningless. I order the immediate cessation of resistance.”

Later that day, loudspeakers announced the general surrender order. Copies were distributed among the remaining defenders. Another 134,000 German soldiers marched into Soviet captivity, including Gen. Weidling, who died in Soviet custody on November 17, 1955.

In the weeks that followed, few Berlin women, of any age, were able to avoid being raped, multiple times, by Soviet soldiers, freed slave laborers and prisoners.

About 100,000 civilians died in the final battle. Soviet casualties numbered 304,000. In the last two months, the Red Army had expended twice the tonnage of explosives as the Western Allies had dropped on Berlin since the war began. In addition to the casualties, the Red Army lost almost 2,000 tanks and more than 2,100 artillery pieces in taking Berlin.

Next week: Victory Day

Mr. Wimbrow writes from Ocean City, Maryland, where he practices law representing those persons accused of criminal and traffic offenses, and those persons who have suffered a personal injury through no fault of their own. He can be contacted at wimbrowlaw@gmail.com.

Opinions

They have to be kidding, right?

Someone please say it’s all a misunderstanding or at least a major mistake. Otherwise the State Highway Administration’s decision to perform repair work on the Route 50 bridge through the summer is incredibly dumb.

It’s worse than dumb; it’s senseless. Moreover, it must be the product of blind adherence to a schedule based on when a job can be done rather than when it should be done.

Common sense dictates that squeezing summertime bridge traffic into fewer lanes is going to be problematic when daily vehicle crossings can be in the tens of thousands.

Yet, there it is, and the public is just finding out about it now. That alone is inexplicable, when every resident, visitor and business will be affected, as cars stack up on Route 50 and, as motorists seek an alternate way to the beach, on Route 90.

Surely, someone within the Maryland Department of Transportation realized just how impractical this time schedule is and advised against it.

But if that did happen, that advice did not filter down to the district office, the representatives of which gave Ocean City officials their spring update on Monday without mentioning lane closures or bridge repairs. Further, when asked about this project after the council session, district officials said they were unaware of it.

Although it’s been said that communications between divisions in the State Highway Administration isn’t the best, and that it’s entirely possible that one office failed to inform the other, that’s no reason to let things stand where they are.

The bridge project managers need to be told that unless this work is vital to the span’s structural integrity, it needs to stop now, or at least by the Memorial Day weekend, and remain on hold until the fall.

If that doesn’t happen, Ocean City should prepare for a river of disgruntled visitors pouring into town after waiting ... and waiting ... for the cars ahead of them to move.

PUBLIC EYE

More fan mail & texts

Another week, another report on what’s happening in the world today, as in the continuing discovery by others that not only do I exist, but that they — in the spirit of universal something or the other — want to be my friend.

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By Stewart Dobson

Maybe even a close friend, depending.

Some people will recall my recent report on Madison of L’Oreal in Paris, who informed me by email that she wanted “to have talking with me.”

That was a purely innocent gesture, I am sure, as she never once suggested anything more than “have talking” was on her agenda.

More recently, and it’s just a guess on my part, I suspect something a little more involved might have been on the mind of whoever sent me an unsigned text message from Los Angeles that said (all true):

“Do you have time tomorrow? Let’s go camping together.”

Hmmm. Call me a skeptic, but the little voice in my head said this invitation probably wasn’t from, say, Jennifer Lawrence or Charlize Theron or Sofia Vergara.

I will admit, however, that I did briefly entertain the fantasy of sitting around the campfire with Jennifer and exchanging pleasantries such as, “Hey, wanna throw a can of baked beans on the fire and see what happens?”

She just strikes me as the kind of person who would see the humor in having to duck

the bean shrapnel flying everywhere. Anyway, as attractive as an anonymous camping invitation might be (to anyone with a lifelong desire to show up on a police report as “victim”) I concluded this was not on the up and up and deleted it before anyone in the household saw it and, perhaps, draw the wrong conclusion.

I similarly exercised great restraint when I received a message on my LinkedIn account from “Penny.”

According to the biographical line next to her name, Penny is a “Beauty consultant/natural beauty guardian/cosmetics promotion master/Investor.”

Naturally, I can see why she reached out to me. We have a great deal in common.

“Hello Stewart,

“After checking your LinkedIn details, I found that you have extensive work experience and experience in this field.

I hope we can share different industry knowledge.”

Well, now, Penny, I’d love to share different industry knowledge. The fact is I have done a little beauty consulting over the years, even though it has consisted mostly of advising funny-looking people to spend more time indoors.

As for my experience with cosmetics, all I can say is I don’t wear it ... anymore. Ha-ha. Just kidding.

By the way, I see you’re based in Los Angeles, so just out of curiosity, I have to ask — you wouldn’t want to go camping tomorrow, would you?

It’ll be fun. Maybe throw some beans on the fire and ...

Between the Lines

By Steve Green

It’s not the Board of Zoning Appeals’ role to determine if Ocean City’s cannabis ordinance is legal. Therefore, despite the few hours spent deliberating the matter, it was predictable the BZA would support staff’s finding saying a cannabis dispensary cannot open in Ocean City around 21st Street. What’s next after this appeal denial will be most compelling.

Several local attorneys casually opined this week the dispensary applicant has a solid case to challenge the city at the circuit court level. The critical point here is the state statue that prohibits municipalities from treating cannabis dispensaries different than alcohol retailers. Ocean City clearly views cannabis dispensaries with more of a stink eye than beer, wine and liquor stores. It’s a debatable position from a moral perspective and especially from a legal standpoint.

Ocean City simply does not want cannabis sales. It was clear as soon as Ocean City started crafting an ordinance on cannabis officials were looking to create regulations making it impossible for an operator to open a dispensary in the resort. There’s essentially no space in Ocean City that does not fall within 500 feet of a public park (which the beach is considered) and recreation centers like a hotel pool and miniature golf course and 100 feet from areas available for residential use. It's this approach of creating rules impossible to meet and far more stringent than alcohol establishments that will be tested in court. It seems there’s a solid legal case to challenge this archaic position. It’s worth noting cannabis can be legally bought four miles away.

***

Sometimes things do not add up. Earlier in the week, the rumor mill had it there were major structural problems with the Route 50 bridge that would require emergency repairs this summer. It was assumed the issue would be discussed during SHA’s report to the Ocean City Council on Tuesday afternoon. The meeting came and went without any mention of Route 50 with attention spent on the Route 90 dualization’s hopes in the future and current smaller projects in Ocean City.

In this case, there does not appear to be anything nefarious. It truly seemed like a significant communication breakdown at the state level with not all authorities aware of the severity of the Route 50 bridge situation until our staff member inquired. It appears there was a genuine lack of knowledge of the major issue, which is why it was not reported to the city. It was an odd situation considering the significance associated with summer lane closures on the primary entrance to Ocean City. It has the potential to be a major nightmare.

***

It most likely will not move the needle a ton at first, but Ocean City’s new seafood festival sounds like a solid special event addition for two reasons. It’s planned the Saturday after Labor Day, Sept. 6, and will be held in north Ocean City at Northside Park.

An Ocean City press release says the family-friendly event will be held from noon-8 p.m. featuring local restaurants and food trucks, live music from three bands, cooking demonstrations, alcohol tastings, art vendors and a kids zone. Kids 16 and under will be admitted for free while adults will pay $15 each. The event is being produced by B Scene Events & Promotions of Havre de Grace.

***

Congratulations to Dr. Annette Wallace on being named the next superintendent of schools in Worcester County.

Though from the outside it seemed to be the internal plan for Wallace to eventually replace Superintendent Lou Taylor when he chose to retire, it does not mean the selection was not best for Worcester County. It’s clear Wallace is more than qualified for the job and gained the support for the leadership post among those who participated in the selection process. Of the applicant pool, there’s no doubt Wallace has the most familiarity and experience in the county. In fact, she has held just about every position possible in the school system -- student, teacher, coach, vice principal, principal and her current role as chief safety and academic officer. This is meaningful.

In today’s political climate, it’s imperative for the superintendent to understand the local dynamics at play and possess a knowledge base of recent history. The superintendent works for the seven-member elected school board, but a relationship that’s just as important is the one with the elected commissioners and county administrators who control the purse strings. Though there’s a learning curve with any new job, Wallace is positioned well to continue to advance the school system. It’s also beneficial she can work closely with Taylor on the transition, rather than tying up loose ends elsewhere if an external choice was made.

School holds wellness program

(May 2, 2025) As AP exams approach, Worcester Prep’s Upper School students took a moment to unwind during Wellness @ Worcester, a program designed to alleviate stress during a typically hectic time.

The last couple of months of school can be stressful for students as they try to complete academic obligations before summer break. Wellness @ Worcester was launched in the previous year as an initiative to support the physical and mental wellbeing of Upper School students. Spearheaded by enthusiastic senior Lydia Schwartz in collaboration with the College Counseling program, the event introduces students to a holistic approach to health, focusing on stress management, study skills, and healthy lifestyle choices.

Last Thursday, Upper School stu-

dents enjoyed a visit from Pets on Wheels of Wicomico County. As a certified handler for National Canine Therapy Dogs and the youngest member of Pets on Wheels, Lydia Schwartz is well-versed in the uplifting impact animals can have on human spirits. Her dedicated service, alongside her pug Sprinkles, has touched numerous lives across hospitals, nursing homes, and educational institutions. While taking advantage of the warm weather, students also enjoyed yoga on the lawn led by Upper School English teacher Elana Zambori, playing Giant Jenga, axe throwing, and blowing bubbles outside. Inside, they savored healthy snacks while using adult coloring books, writing thankyou cards to family and friends and releasing some tension with playdough.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

WPS seniors Ryan Mann and Avery Roselle let off some steam while practicing yoga at the Wellness @ Worcester event.

OBITUARIES

PAULA H. LYNCH

Berlin

Paula H. Lynch, wife, mother and notable local resident, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 89 on Friday, April 25, 2025, in Berlin.

Born in Baltimore before making her way to the Eastern Shore, she was the daughter of the late Paul Reinhart Hassencamp and Catherine (Wheatley) Hassencamp.

Paula was a graduate of Roland Park Country School’s Class of 1953, where she was a member of the school’s field hockey team. She then attended Goucher College, earning a bachelor’s degree in education before teaching history at Tow-

son High School.

Paula met her husband of 69 years, Franklin, at the Phillips Beach Plaza on the boardwalk in Ocean City when the two worked summer desk clerk jobs. They married on December 27, 1955, and after some time moved to Snow Hill in Worcester County.

In 1970, Paula took on the role of Business Manager of Worcester Preparatory School (then Worcester Country School). She was integral to the early success of the school, supporting its founding through her efforts behind the scenes including answering phones, completing paperwork, and overseeing construction permits and approvals. She served Worcester Prep diligently for over 50 years, earning the school’s Worcester Honors Service Award before her retirement in June 2021.

Paula’s service didn’t end with her work at Worcester Prep. In 1988, after relocating from Snow Hill to Berlin, Paula won an at-large seat on Berlin’s Town Council. Often praised for her sound judgement and fair business sense, she served her community through her council seat for 26 years before her retirement in 2014.

Paula’s presence was defined by her quick wit, no-nonsense style, and steadfast commitment to her work and community. This commitment

was matched only by her dedication to her family. She is survived by her husband, Franklin Lynch, and two daughters, Sarah Lynch, and Jennifer Lynch.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, May 2, 2025, at 3 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Berlin. A visitation will take place one hour prior to the service. Interment will immediately follow at St. Paul’s Episcopal Churchyard. Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Worcester Preparatory School, 508 South Main Street, Berlin, Md. 21811.

DAVID EDWARD MCALLISTER

Ocean Pines

David Edward McAllister, 80, of Ocean Pines, passed away on Wednesday, April 23, 2025.

Born and raised in the farming community of Laurel, Delaware, he was the son of former Sussex County Sheriff Harry McAllister and Pearl Callaway McAllister. For 55 years, he was married to Lynne Yoder McAllister of Wayne,

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OBITUARIES

Pennsylvania.

David proudly served in the US Army from 1965-1967 as part of the 196th Light Infantry Brigade's S2 Intelligence Unit stationed in Vietnam. After the war, he returned to college on the GI Bill and graduated from Saint Joseph's University in Philadelphia. He later founded a successful manufacturer’s representative agency selling truck components to OEMs and distributors throughout the Northeast.

After raising their family in the suburbs of Philadelphia, he and Lynne retired to their dream house on the Eastern Shore of Maryland.

A loving husband and father, David was also a great friend to many people whose lives he touched deeply. He will be remembered for his kindness and generosity, as well as his friendly smile and easygoing nature. But more than anything, he will be remembered for the joy and laughter he spread everywhere he went. From his unique catchphrases ("I'm going to live until I die") and devilish (but never mean-spirited) sense of humor, to his uncanny (and contest-winning) Elvis impersonation, David was always the life of the party.

In addition to his wife, David is survived by his children, Courtney McAllister Blair and Matthew McAllister; his daughter-in-law Stacey McAllister; and his grandchildren

Beck Blair, Ryan McAllister, McAllister Blair, and Harper McAllister. David was preceded in death by his brother Bob and sister Jean.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 2, 2025 at 4 p.m. at The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin, Maryland. The family will receive visitors for one hour prior to the service from 3pm to 4pm. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in David's name to the Wounded Warrior Project, a nonprofit offering services to military veterans. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home.

Condolences may be shared with the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

JOYCE RAY SHAFFER

Ocean City

Joyce Ray Shaffer, age 91, of Ocean City, died Sunday, April 6, 2025 at Tidal Health Peninsula Regional in Salisbury.

She was born in Salisbury and was the daughter of the late James Raymond Savage and Annie Catherine (Bunting) Savage.

She was a retired assistant manager for Delmarva Power and a member of Atlantic United Methodist

Church in Ocean City.

Joyce is survived by a son, Christopher M. Shaffer and wife Tina of Bishopville, and three grandchildren, Joshua M. Shaffer, Natalie P. Shaffer and her fiancé Bailey Littleton and Jacob A. Shaffer.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Howard C. Shaffer; a son, Michael V. Shaffer; a sister, Mary Anne Simpson. Her son, Howard Ray Shaffer, died on April 12, 2025.

A memorial service will be held at noon on Friday, May 9, 2025 at Ocean City Fire Department Station 5, 10124 Keyser Point Road, Ocean City, Md. with a visitation from 10 a.m. until noon. The Reverend George Patterson will be officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to Parent Project of Muscular Dystrophy, 1012 14th Street NW, Suite 500, Washington,

D.C. 20005 or online (www.parentprojectmd.org).

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com

JOHN JOSEPH URICK

West Ocean City

John Joseph Urick, known fondly to friends and family as John or Pop, passed away peacefully on April 26, 2025 in the home he built for his family in West Ocean City, Maryland.

He was surrounded by his three daughters and loving wife of 58 years. Born on February 8,1948, at Geisinger Hospital in Danville, Pennsylvania to the late Paul Urick and Pearl (Varney) Urick. John’s life was a beautiful Continued on Page 89

Joyce R. Shaffer

John J. Urick

Photo by Stephen Pryce Lea

Photo by Stephen Pryce Lea

Photo by Stephen Pryce Lea

Photo by Stephen Pryce Lea

Continued from Page 87

tapestry woven with his unwavering love for his family, his passion for the great outdoors and his Catholic faith.

John’s early life growing up on a family farm in Irish Valley, Shamokin, Pennsylvania laid the foundation for a lifetime of hard work, dedication and the secrets of enjoying life through the outdoors.

He was a retired real estate broker and was the owner of John J. Urick Real Estate in West Ocean City. His honest integrity was well known by the community and anyone that had the pleasure of being a client. John was passionate about hunting and was one of the first hunter safety instructors in the area. A true outdoorsman, he found joy and peace in the woods and on the water. Hunting, fishing, and spending time under open skies were not just hobbies for him-they were a way of life.

He taught those he loved, to respect nature, to find patience in a quiet morning, and to appreciate the simple beauty of the world around them. He was a member of St. Mary’s Holy Savior Catholic Parish. John’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the lessons he taught, and the countless memories.

John is survived by his wife, Linda Tyndall Urick; three daughters, Michelle Webster and husband Jeff of West Ocean City, Christine Urick

and fiancé Tommy Joyner of Pittsville and Stephanie Urick of West Ocean City, MD; six grandchildren, Brooke Danielle Connell (Joseph), Aleczander Vaughn Webster (Carrie), Zoie Lane Williams, Grace Korin Ellis (Thomas), Wyatt Kristopher Amsel and Vaughn Michael Amsel; four great-grandchildren, Abigail, Ashton, Aurora and Myles; three brothers, Vince (Sue) Urick of Paxinos, Pa., Steve (Cindy) Urick of Birdsboro, Pa. and Richard (Maria) Urick of Elysburg, Pa.; three sisters, Christine (Randy) Yasenchak of Paxinos, Pa., Maureen (Bob) Hauck of Sunbury, Pa. and Ann (Ted) Hittle of Danville, Pa.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Paul Urick (survived by Judy Urick).

He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were privileged to know him.

A Catholic Mass will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, May 5, at Holy Savior Catholic Church 1705 Philadelphia Ave. Ocean City. A reception following the Mass will be held in the church hall.

A visitation will be held one hour before the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor John’s memory by spending time outdoors, teaching a child to fish or simply sharing a long

Continued on Page 90

Continued from Page 89

story with loved ones.

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com

HOWARD R. SHAFFER

Ocean City

Howard R. "Ray" Shaffer, age 68, of Ocean City, died Saturday, April 12, 2025 at Tidal Health Peninsula Regional in Salisbury. He was born in Salisbury and was the son of the late Howard C. Shaffer and Joyce Ray (Savage) Shaffer. Ray graduated from Worcester Preparatory School in 1974. He worked as an Ocean City Police Cadet from 1974-1977, was a United States Capital Police Officer from 1977-1980, Ocean Pines Special Police Officer from 1980-1984. Ray also was an Ocean City Fire Department Dispatcher from 1984-1994 and worked in sales until his health declined.

Ray was the oldest of three brothers. Ray is survived by his youngest brother, Chris Shaffer and his wife Tina; two nephews, Joshua & Jacob and one niece, Natalie P. Shaffer and her fiancé Bailey Littleton.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard C. Shaffer and Joyce Ray

Shaffer and his brother, Michael Shaffer.

A memorial service will be held at 12:00 pm on Friday, May 9, 2025, at Ocean City Fire Department Station 5, 10124 Keyser Point Road, Ocean City, with a visitation from 10 a.m. until noon. The Reverend George Patterson will be officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Parent Project of Muscular Dystrophy, 1012 14th Street NW, Suite 500 Washington, D.C. 20005 or online (www.parentprojectmd.org).

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com

GARY R. MURRAY

Berlin

Gary R. Murray, 61, of Berlin, passed away unexpectedly on April 13, 2025.

Gary was born in Altoona, Pa. to the late Donald and Dorothy Murray, Sr. He is preceded in death by his parents, father-in-law, Leonard Gordon, and brother-in-law, Shotsie Bayliss. Gary is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Dara Murray (née Gordon), his daughters, Allie Tate (Joseph) and Sonia, and his granddaughters, Arabelle and Maggie Tate. He is also survived by his sib-

lings, Kathy Verprauskus (Barry), Donald Murray, Jr. (Cindy), Debbie Bayliss (Doug Kiracofe), Linda Handel (Greg), and Becky Saunders (Bruce), as well as 18 nieces and nephews. Gary additionally leaves behind his mother-in-law, Roslyn Gordon, and brother-in-law, Craig Gordon, with his wife, Michele.

Gary grew up in Portage, Pa. where he could always be found playing outside and enjoying various sports. Basketball was Gary’s specialty. He attended the Pittsburgh School of Computer Technology and Penn State to pursue a career in computer programming at Interactive Systems, Inc. While at Penn State, Gary played on the basketball team and was nicknamed the “Never Misser” because there was not a 3point shot Gary could not make. Gary and Dara raised their daughters in Germantown, MD before retiring to their “happy place” in Ocean Pines. Gary was an active member of the Knights of Columbus and the local Ocean Pines community, participating in the Anglers Club and Architectural Review Committee. Gary also volunteered for Temple Bat Yam and the Worcester County Chamber of Commerce, who awarded him “Friend of the Year” in 2023.

In his free time, Gary enjoyed cheering on his beloved Pittsburgh sports teams, traveling the world,

bird watching in the backyard, and fishing. But most of all, Gary was a true family man who loved watching “Days of our Lives” with Dara, beating Allie at rummy and Scrabble, talking to Sonia on the phone almost daily, fishing with Joe, swimming with Arabelle, making silly faces with Maggie, and relaxing with his cats, Holly and Tiffany. He will be missed by all who were lucky to have known him.

Cremation followed Gary’s passing. There will be a celebration of life at Temple Bat Yam, 11036 Worcester Highway, Berlin, Md. 21811, on Sunday, May 4 at 2 p.m. A formal service will take place on Sunday, June 22 at 10 a.m. at Goldstein’s Funeral Home, 6410 N. Broad St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19126. Interment will follow at Montefiore Cemetery in Jenkintown, PA. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the American Heart Association in Gary’s honor. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin. Condolences may be shared with the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

THOMAS HOWARTH

Ocean City

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Thomas King Howarth who departed this life on April 26, 2025 at the age of 77. Thom was born on March 27, 1948 in Washington, DC. He was the son of the late Thomas and Eleanor Howarth. Thom lived a life of kindness and deep love for his family and friends. He touched the lives of many through his sense of humor, and his ability to make everyone feel at home. He enjoyed coaching soccer, surfing, was a skilled intuitive musician and remained a very spiritual man. In addition, he had a creative and visionary business mind launching a successful business, Sea Quest, which has lasted over 50 years.

Thom is survived by Marsha Howarth along with their two sons, Alex Howarth (Beth), and Justin Howarth (Maureen). Additionally, he leaves behind his grandchildren, Raisa Howarth, Elsa Howarth, James Howarth and Flynn Howarth. A funeral service will be held on Friday, May 2, 2025 at 10:30 am at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church located at 3 Church Street, Berlin, Md. 21811. A viewing will be held one hour prior to the service from 9:30 am until 10:30 am. Interment will follow at the St. Paul’s Episcopal Churchyard.

Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the charity of your choice in Thom’s memory.

Gary R. Murray

Howard Shaffer

Thomas Howarth

Sports & Recreation

Seahawks in final stretch of Bayside’s regular season

By Bruce C. Walls

Contributing Writer

(May 2, 2025) Stephen Decatur’s boys tennis team is looking toward the Bayside Championship with a 9-1 conference record thus far.

The team’s other loss of the season came to non-conference foe Worcester Prep.

There only conference loss was to James M Bennett Senior High School on April 2 and 30-year veteran Head Coach Steve Berquist confidently said, “and we will play them again.”

On Thursday, April 24, Decatur started its second winning streak by beating Queen Anne’s County High School, 5-2, with two wins in the doubles and two in the singles. The squad followed with wins against Washington High school, 6-1, on April 25 and a complete blow out on April 28 over Pocomoke High School, 7-0.

Decatur and Bennett will square off against on Thursday (too late for the paper’s deadline). The outcome against Bennett and Easton Friday will determine if Decatur competes in the Bayside Championship at Salisbury University on May 6.

Decatur girls tennis back on track after streak snapped

By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer

(May 2, 2025) Stephen Decatur girls tennis team bounced back last Friday night by beating Washington High School, 7-0.

The Seahawks had been on a winning streak of eight straight games until last Thursday, April 24 when they got bit by the Lions of Queen Anne’s County High School with a 5-2 loss.

Seahawk Ana Pena won her singles match against Lucy Taylor, a hard fought 8-5. In the doubles match Seahawks Pena and Emily Ferguson won 8-5 playing Lucy Taylor and Meg Taylor of Queen Annes. Those were the only wins of the meet, however.

Before the game on Friday, Anika Karli said, “This season we’re doing pretty well I feel like we’ve had a strong team. We’re pretty similar to last year. We only lost one senior last year and I feel we’ve only built up the team from there. Our team, our season has been going pretty smoothly we’ve lost one to Queen Annes and that was yesterday.”

Karli went on to win her games on Friday night.

Ferguson added, “I think we’re going to build on what we lost yester-

day. I don’t know if we beat them (Washington High School) before. I think we can do it because that’s going to probably be our Bayside match. Our team has gotten really far. I’m pretty proud of our team. We’ve got a good one. I’m glad that this is my senior year, and this is what I can leave off on. I know that we’re going to do well.”

On Monday, April 28, Decatur played Pocomoke High School and finished with another win 6-1.

Tonight, the squad takes on Easton High School at the Talbot County YMCA and the Bayside Championship at Salisbury University on May 6.

PHOTOS COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Decatur tennis ace Ana Pena is pictured in both photos returning the ball during her singles match against Queen Anne’s Lucy Taylor on April 24.

Decatur’s Trey Rill continued his stellar play this season during his singles match on April 24 during the match against Queen Anne’s County High School. Both photos are from the same match last week.

PHOTOS COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Decatur’s Unified program now features three sports

By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer

(May 2, 2025) Stephen Decatur High School’s Unified sports program now includes an offering for each season of the school year. There is tennis in the fall, strength and conditioning over the winter and the spring brings bocce.

Last week, Decatur hosted Crisfield and Washington High School at home and this week the Seahawks team played Parkside on Monday, Cambridge on Thursday and will compete Friday in the district competition at Crown Sports Center.

Unified sports is a program of Special Olympics. Students with varying intellectual abilities are inspired to train and build team skills through consistency, inclusion and camaraderie. This program uses flexibility and cardio which is most important to the mind and body connection to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Stephen Decatur excels in the effort, featuring more than 60 special needs athletes and typical buddies in tennis, more than 100 players in strength and conditioning and about 15 competitors in bocce. So far this year Decatur has claimed state hon-

ors for tennis and strength and conditioning.

The fall and spring programs are coached by Lindsay Owens and Shannon Bone, but in the spring those women coach the varsity girls lacrosse team. The spring is led by football coach Jake Coleman, who has a son with Autism and began in Unified sports at Cambridge.

“I started coaching Unified sports 10 years ago at Cambridge-South Dorchester high because the Cambridge Athletic Director Dan Dobronz asked me to,” Coleman said. “Having a son with autism, it was an easy decision that has helped me to be a better father, teacher, coach. I took over Unified Strength and Conditioning at CSD shortly after seeing the importance of Unified sports. As soon as I got the lay of the land with bocce and Unified Strength, the competitive spirit in me wanted to build the largest and best teams.”

Coleman said, “One of my proudest moments in coaching came from raising $10,000 to build a turf bocce court at Cambridge and winning a state championships in 2018 in both bocce and strength.”

Coleman said Unified sports is popular at Decatur because of the adults and players involved in making it happen.

“Seeing the growth of Unified sports here in Worcester has been amazing to witness,” Coleman said. “Decatur has the top Unified sports in the state which shouldn’t be a surprise. Our Decatur Principal Tom Sites, a former special education teacher, understands the importance and supports our Unified sports at the same level as any other programs. He along with the strongest special education department around led by Karen Skipper deserve all the credit in the world.”

Decatur will compete Friday, May 2 at Crown Sports Center in the district meet and May 20 in the state competition in Chestertown.

Seahawks JV team success confirms program’s depth

By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer

(May 2, 2025) Last Friday night the Stephen Decatur High School’s junior varsity team humbled the James M. Bennett Clippers, 15-0.

In all sports it is important to have a good feeder program and the Seahawks do. JV coach Jacob Leitner has worked hard this season and has a record of 6-1 after the skunking of Bennett. At Decatur, junior varsity teams can only consist of freshmen and sophomores.

Seahawk high scoring Dylan Decker made four goals, followed by hat tricks each by Paxton Jack and Adrien March. Kellen Lloyd provided two goals. Jacob Shaffer, Wyatt Seth and Henry Kemp each contributed one. Assists were made by Paxton (three), Jack Popielaski (two) and

one each from Johnny Crossett, March and Lloyd.

After the game, freshman midfielder Bohdyn Smith said, “I see we have a lot of potential that a lot of us are able to make the varsity to the next level and make our team and school better. I’ll just play and see where it takes me.”

On Monday, Stephen Decatur boys’ varsity team had a game with the Clippers, winning 22-5.

Before Wednesday night’s game at Cambridge, the Seahawks varsity are currently 9-1 in the season with the only varsity loss coming Kent Island High School. The Seahawks after the paper deadline and again tonight at Parkside High School. The Seahawks are expected to play in the Bayside Championship at home on Monday, May 5.

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS Game high scorer Dylan Decker, who had four goals against Bennett, evades a check.

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Freshman Carson Green makes a toss for Stephen Decatur Unified sports bocce team during a recent home match.

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Brooklyn Torrey celebrates with teammates during last week’s home meet with Crisfield and Washington High schools.

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS Freshman Nate Watts celebrates after a scoring toss with supporter Shonna Schultz.

UP-AND-DOWN SEASON FOR DECATUR

After falling to Caesar Rodney last Friday, 15-7, Decatur’s girls lacrosse team got back on the winning track this week, defeating Bennett on the road on Monday and

Wednesday. Above left, Julia Gordy puts away a breakaway goal against Bennett on Monday. Above

last Friday. Below left, junior Lo Malinowski prepares to feed a cutter in last Friday’s losing cause. Below

record of 6-5, the Seahawks take on Parkside at home on Friday for senior game.

junior

toward the

for one

toward the offensive end during

PHOTOS COURTESY J.P. CATHELL PHOTOGRAPHY

Cambridge South Dorchester on

right,

Caitlin Shimko sprints

goal

of her five goals against Caesar Rodney

right, Jill Burton heads

Monday’s Bennett win. With a season