06/19/2026 OC Today-Dispatch

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OC Today-Dispatch JUNE 19, 2026

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School super calls out commissioners St. Paul’s files Blasts majority for saying school board, not county, responsible for cuts — PAGE 3

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All but the District 5 commission seat will be decided in critical primary vote — PAGE 36

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OC Today-Dispatch

JUNE 19, 2026

JUNE 19, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

Wallace says county leaders misled public on budget cuts Superintendent lambasts commissioner majority for underfunding programs

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (June 19, 2026) County Superintendent of Schools Annette Wallace this week accused a majority of the Worcester County Commissioners of misleading residents about who is to blame for nearly $2.8 million in reductions to student programs in the educational system’s fiscal year 2027 budget.

During Tuesday’s Worcester County Board of Education meeting, Wallace delivered a lengthy and impassioned statement defending the school board’s recent decision to cut certain budget items and criticizing commissioners who voted to give the district less funding than it requested.

Annette Wallace “I felt compelled to once again address misinformation that continues to be circulated regarding the fiscal budget year 2027 and the difficult reductions that resulted from actions taken by the Worcester County Commissioners,” Wallace said. “The facts matter.”

The comments come after the board unanimously approved $2.8 million in spending reductions to balance its budget following a vote earlier this month by the county commissioners.

On June 2, the commissioners voted 4-3 to provide the school system with $134.2 million in county funding, about $2.8 million less than what the board had requested. In response, on June 3, the school system administration cut funding for dual enrollment courses, technology upgrades, behavioral support initiatives, summer programs, instructional materials, maintenance projects, and other expenses.

Wallace said commissioners had publicly outlined which portions of the school system’s request they intended to fund and which they would not.

Reading from the list discussed during the commissioner’s June 2 budget meeting, Wallace said that the county officials approved funding for negotiated salary increases for teachers and support staff, bus contractor rate increases, health insurance costs, pension obligations, substitute pay increases, and bus attendants.

She then listed items she said commissioners opted not to fund, including pre-kindergarten positions in Pocomoke, dual enrollment, technology upgrades, an additional RISE behavioral support program for

elementary school students, summer school, instructional materials, and teacher recertification costs.

“Their motion was explicit,” Wallace said. “They approved funding for the things I just read. They did not approve funding for the remaining components of the board of education’s budget request.”

Wallace argued that criticisms that the board voluntarily cut student programs is inaccurate, because the board had no choice but to reduce FY27 expenditures after the commissioners decided not to fully fund the school budget.

“The [education] board’s June 3 actions did not create the budget shortfall,” she said. “Their actions addressed it.”

Wallace also reported that several parents had contacted school personnel after receiving communications that suggested the board was responsible for eliminating student services.

The superintendent said that the commissioners have attempted to spin the narrative to claim that the school board, not the commissioner majority, bears responsibility for the absence of funding in some areas. “[The commissioners] are purposefully trying to obscure these facts in emails back to parents,” she said. “...Unfortunately, we’re now seeing attempts by the commissioner majority to suggest that this board and the reductions affecting dual enrollment, summer programs, and other student services were made by this board.

That is not true. It is simply not true.”

Wallace named Commissioners Caryn Abbott, Chip Bertino, Jim Bunting, and Ted Elder as the parties responsible for the underfunded programs and budget.

“The [school] board did not vote to reduce these programs because it believed the reductions were good,” she said. “The board was forced to identify reductions because Commissioners Abbott, Bertino, Bunting, and Elder voted against funding those items in the budget. Public officials are entitled to defend their votes. They’re entitled to explain their reasoning.

“But stand on business. If you voted for it, be honest… [Public officials] are not entitled to rewrite the history that’s been recorded and receipts kept online during their meetings.”

The superintendent also questioned the local government’s financial priorities, noting that commissioners had recently announced a $29 million surplus for the county.

Wallace argued that this excessive amount of unused county dollars contradicts the commissioner’s decision to give the school system less money than it sought.

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OC Today-Dispatch

JUNE 19, 2026

Wallace targets county’s surplus

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Continued from Page 3 “Our school system budget for the last fiscal year was cut by over $2 million,” Wallace said. “That leaves me with a lot of unanswered questions.”

One area the board chose to protect despite the commissioner’s vote against it was the pre-kindergarten program at Pocomoke Elementary School.

Wallace said eliminating the PES pre-K classes would have disproportionately harmed students in one of the county’s most vulnerable communities.

“Cutting opportunities for threeand four-year-olds in the most vulnerable area of our community just doesn’t align with my values and doesn't align with the values of this board,” she said.

To preserve the program, the school system opted not to fill a vacant executive-level position immediately.

She added that this move will place more work on the remainder of the administrative team, but said the burden is worth it to maintain what she described as a vital student service.

The superintendent also referenced the upcoming primary election in which three of the commissioners who voted against the education board’s budget request, Bertino, Abbott, and Elder, are seeking reelection.

“Those who seek the privilege of holding another term should expect their constituents to hold them accountable for the decisions they make and the consequences those decisions carry,” Wallace said.

Tuesday’s meeting coincided with the last day of school for WCPS. Wallace praised teachers, support staff, bus contractors, custodians, and other employees for their work throughout the school year.

“Their dedication, their professionalism, and their commitment to excellence, for that, they have my deepest gratitude,” she said. “I promise you we will continue to do that regardless of the budget.”

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OC Today-Dispatch

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JUNE 19, 2026

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OC Today-Dispatch

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OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 10

JUNE 19, 2026

More odd twists with school budget process

By Brian Shane Staff Writer (June 19, 2026) When the Worcester County Commissioners this week were presented with the Board of Education’s updated spending plan – trimmed after commissioners denied the board’s full budget request – they were expected to consider a motion to approve it.

Eight seconds passed. Commissioners President Ted Elder asked if there were any questions. Heads turned. Microphones picked up the sounds of breathing, shuffling papers, and someone tapping on the dais. But nobody said a word.

After another 21 seconds, Elder moved on for lack of a motion. “We could possibly come back to it,” he said, “if somebody wishes to do that.”

OC Today-Dispatch asked all seven

commissioners via email to explain their lack of a motion for a revised school budget vote. Only Commissioner Caryn Abbot responded to the inquiry by press time.

“I’m not sure why nobody made a motion for it,” said Abbott (District 1, Southern) in an interview. “Maybe they wanted to discuss it further, which is what happened. The whole thing was a little different.”

Historically, the commissioners have voted to accept the school board’s final budget report – but it’s not required, according to County Administrator Weston Young.

He said commissioners technically don’t have to approve the revised schools budget, and the board’s submitted report would be sufficient to meet county code.

“The primary responsibility of the

commissioners is to determine the level of funding. How it gets spent and what categories the funding is allocated is the responsibility of the Board of Education members,” Young said via email.

Since this cadre of commissioners took office in 2022, school board funding has been a contentious issue.

This year was no exception, as the commissioners rejected the school board’s full funding request of $126 million.

Instead of receiving the requested $12 million increase, the school board received a $9 million increase. While the commissioners have no say over how school funds are spent, they suggested it should be used to support essential services and wages.

Last year the county provided a record-high $113.8 million in funding.

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School officials said they needed millions more this year to support increased expenses like state-mandated salary increases for teachers and rising health insurance costs.

County funding accounts for most, but not all, of the school board's operating budget. Other funds come from state aid and grant funding. About $7.7 million in debt service for school construction and other projects is calculated separately.

Superintendent Annette Wallace earlier this month told OC Today-Dispatch that the budget was “bare bones” and included “only the things that we absolutely could not live without.”

At Tuesday’s meeting, after taking no action on the school budget item, the commissioners were asked to approve another agenda item: a schedule outlining when the county would transfer the approved $120.6 million in funding to the board of education over 24 payments. Abbott made the motion to approve but it died for a lack of a second.

However, the scheduling measure did get approved nearly two hours later, after Young recommended that the commissioners approve it. He said it would be helpful to finance staff at both the school board and county level.

Abbott again made the motion to approve, and this time, it passed in a 4-3 vote with Commissioners Joe Mitrecic, Eric Fiori, and Diana Purnell voting no.

That wasn’t the only school funding issue that hit turbulence at Tuesday’s commissioners meeting. The commissioners also discussed why the county’s approved budget did not include a nearly $300,000 line item for paying into a trust for teacher pension funding.

Mitrecic raised the issue and made a motion that this money be put back into the budget, and Fiori seconded.

School board finance chief Vince Tolbert stepped up to explain. He said the board in recent years had built funding into its budget to help pay down teacher pensions, and this year they’d asked for $298,000 more for this line item than the prior year.

Because that money wasn’t included in the budget, Tolbert added, it had to be absorbed by the school board and resulted in budget cuts.

Commissioners Bertino and Abbott abstained from the vote for lack of information, and there was a 3-2 vote to approve with Commissioners Fiori, Purnell, and Mitrecic in favor.

Jim Bunting and Ted Elder voted no.

Because four votes are required to pass any motion, the effort failed and the pension funding was not restored.

Moving forward, the county’s first fiscal 2027 payment to the school board of $2.5 million is scheduled for July 15, based on the approved schedule. The fiscal year begins July 1.

JUNE 19, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

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OC Today-Dispatch

JUNE 19, 2026

Church says OC is hindering its federal right Town argues the facility’s homeless shelter fails to meet zoning regulations

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (June 19, 2026) St. Paul’s by-theSea Episcopal Church has filed a federal lawsuit against the Ocean City mayor and City Council over a zoning dispute regarding a homeless shelter operating on church grounds.

On Tuesday, the vestry of St. Paul’s, joined by Senior Warden Daniel Harris and the Rev. Jill Williams, filed a complaint against the city in U.S. District Court for the State of Maryland over what they allege to be a violation of the church’s federal rights.

The lawsuit comes more than a week after the city began fining the church for operating a “barracksstyle” homeless shelter in a zoning district where staff say it is not permitted.

“By prohibiting the Church from housing homeless persons in its Church hall, in fulfillment of fundamental Church doctrine, the Town is obstructing Plaintiffs in its free exercise of religious belief,” the complaint reads. “This unconstitutional obstruction is without government jus-

tification and is an unwarranted application of the Town’s police powers.”

Last year, both Worcester County and Ocean City enacted tougher laws aimed at punishing those who sleep or store personal property in public places, with violations resulting in fines or jail time.

In response, St. Paul’s – located directly across from City Hall, at the corner of Baltimore Avenue and 3rd Street – started welcoming members of the homeless population to stay on church property, purchasing tents and setting up an encampment in an alcove just south of its downtown facility. However, the church’s efforts were soon challenged by the Town of Ocean City, which argued the tents were a violation of the zoning code.

On March 31, St. Paul’s began moving occupants of the outdoor homeless encampment into its church hall. The indoor shelter opened just hours ahead of a city-imposed deadline to have the church remove the tents or face daily fines.

“The Town of Ocean City then directed the Church to prohibit further camping on church grounds and to move its homeless wards inside the Church,” the complaint reads. “The Church agreed to do so, provided adequate time could be allowed to meet

fire code provisions and to take appropriate safety measures. The Town acquiesced, and the Church moved all its homeless guests inside by April 1, 2026.”

In the weeks that followed, the church invested in its indoor shelter, rearranging the church hall, hiring staff, and purchasing bunk beds, food and other supplies. The church said it also passed an inspection by the city’s fire marshal’s office.

On May 8, the city put the church on notice once more, stating that the barracks-style living quarters the church had built inside violates zoning regulations, as it is not a permitted principal use, accessory use or an approved special exception within the R-3 zoning district in which the church is located. A letter issued by city staff last month notified the church of potential municipal infractions.

“As I have stated in the past, the Town has a responsibility to ensure that all facilities comply with established zoning, building, occupancy, and safety codes,” McGean said in an email last week.

“In this case, the church converted an assembly hall into an overnight shelter operation without applying for the approvals required for a change in use. Those requirements

exist to ensure that facilities intended for overnight occupancy meet appropriate zoning, life safety, sanitation, occupancy, and building standards.

In this particular matter we have vulnerable individuals being housed in a facility not originally designed or approved for that purpose.”

On June 8, following a 30-day notice period, the city issued its first $1,000-a-day fine to both the senior warden and the pastor. While the city said fines would continue for each day the zoning violation occurs, Williams made it clear last week that St. Paul’s had no plans to close the shelter’s doors.

“Indeed, it might be said that the Town’s own interests – compelling or otherwise – are being served by the Church in housing persons whose needs are manifestly not being met by the Town,” the complaint reads. “Certainly, were the Church to expel its homeless guests, they would have no choice but to take refuge on the boardwalk, on nearby business establishments, and at Town Hall itself, forty feet away from the Church.”

In their federal lawsuit, church leaders allege the city’s actions violate the church’s First Amendment and Fourteenth Amendment rights. They also allege the city’s actions violate the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act, which protects houses of worship and other religious institutions from discrimination in zoning laws.

“Housing homeless persons on Church premises exemplifies and is commanded by the religious doctrine of the Episcopal Church of America, of which St. Paul’s is a parish through the Diocese of Easton …,” the complaint reads.

“The Town’s demand that the Church expel its homeless guests for alleged zoning code violations and the imposition of daily civil fines imposes a substantial burden on the free exercise of Plaintiffs’ religious beliefs.”

Ultimately, the church is seeking a court order, making any citations or fines issued null and void. It is also seeking permanent injunctive relief, commanding the city to refrain from further action “obstructing the Church in its use of its facilities to house homeless persons.”

When contacted this week, Council President Matt James declined to comment “since the matter is actively being litigated.” Both McGean and City Solicitor Heather Stansbury did not respond to requests for comment this week.

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Worcester announces $30M surplus for fiscal year 2025 Commissioners approved putting the $21 million toward school construction, road repairs, public safety upgrades, and a new library in Pocomoke City. No surplus money will be spent on personnel or salaries.

By Brian Shane Of the 68 projects approved for Staff Writer (June 19, 2026) Worcester County surplus spending, 32 had already ended up with a $30 million surplus been on the county’s to-do list. Anfrom its fiscal 2025 budget year, the other 36 projects came in as new reresult of what officials described as quests.

The majority of spending is for lower spending and increased revschool construction, public safety inenues.

The entire amount isn’t free to frastructure, and public works-led spend. More than $8.6 million al- projects that will serve multiple ready had been earmarked for exist- county departments and facilities.

Topping the surplus spending list ing initiatives. That left the county to spend about $21 million on educa- are two school projects: $5.5 million tion, public works, and parks proj- for a roof replacement at Worcester Technical High School and $4.8 milects.

Commissioner Caryn Abbott made lion for the rebuild of Buckingham the motion at Tuesday’s meeting to Elementary School.

The list also includes $4.2 million approve the proposed surplus assignfor the new ments. Without any Pocomoke City lidiscussion, the mobrary branch, $2.3 tion passed 4-3. Ab‘We’re not using one-time million for radio bott, Chip Bertino, money to grow government. equipment, and Jim Bunting, and We’re trying to make sure it about $2 million toTed Elder voted in ward design of the favor and Eric Fiori, fixes a lot of stuff across new Berlin InterJoe Mitrecic, and the spectrum.’ mediate School.

Diana Purnell voted County Administrator Rounding out in opposition.

Weston Young the Top 10 projects Budget Officer are HVAC upgrades Lynn Wright told to the county’s the county commissioners Tuesday that the surplus re- recreation center ($1.9 million), varsulted from revenues that exceeded ious paving projects ($1.7 million), projections and below-budget expen- expansion of the fire training center ditures. She also noted the surplus ($1.7 million), pipe replacement on figure could change slightly once the Unionville Road ($1.5 million) and replacement of the outdoor warning county's audit is finalized.

Wright said $13.9 million is from siren ($1.4 million).

County Administrator Weston higher-than-expected revenue from income tax, property taxes, recre- Young said the surplus reveal is the ation fees, transfer taxes, room tax, result of what he called a conservative and interest earnings. Other revenue budget process.

“It’s a real good problem to have,” came from a contract with U.S. Marshals, which pays the county to house he said. “We’re not using one-time money to grow government. We’re detainees at the jail.

Wright also said $15.8 million came trying to make sure it fixes a lot of from spending being lower in the stuff across the spectrum.”

Young also said the surplus reveal areas of salaries and benefits, operating accounts, and capital equipment. took months longer than usual beShe said this reflects a combination of cause the county has been working vacant positions, delayed purchases, with a new auditing firm.

He also expects the county to reand other budgeted costs that ended turn to a regular auditing schedule, up lower than anticipated.

Because the county’s budget must which means the surplus from fiscal be balanced, a surplus always has to year 2026 will be ready to announce this fall. land somewhere.

Available funds to cover school construction costs, public safety upgrades, etc.

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JUNE 19, 2026

County grants commercial rezoning request Antique store owner to get designation following court challenge, second hearing

By Brian Shane Staff Writer (June 19, 2026) The Worcester County Commissioners this week approved a commercial rezoning for a Snow Hill storage building after concluding county officials likely made a mistake when they downzoned the property to agricultural use in 1992.

The commissioners’ 5-2 vote reversed their 2023 denial of the request. Supporters of the rezoning said that testimony showed county officials had mistakenly swept an active commercial property into a broader agricultural downzoning.

“I contend the baby got thrown out with the bathwater,” said attorney Hugh Cropper, arguing on behalf of property owner Amy Kelly. She has been fighting to open a consignment and antique shop, Black Water Relics, on the Market Street property.

Cropper said county staffers had spent months reviewing records and compiling a lengthy report on the rezoning, but overlooked a simpler source: the neighbors.

Cropper said he’d searched land records, found out who’d lived there

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decades ago, and reached out.

"It was a two-second call," he said.

"I said, 'What was there in 1992?' He said, 'I remember it well.'"

The man he reached was Tom Aydelotte, who grew up in a house adjacent to the property and lived there 30 years. At Tuesday’s hearing, he testified that the structure was used to store World War II aircraft parts for a distribution business when the county conducted its 1992 rezoning.

Aydelotte recalled seeing the 11,000-square-foot warehouse packed chock-a-block with the husks of old warplanes, many still riddled with bullet holes. “It’ll blow your mind how full it was,” he said.

Commissioner Eric Fiori, who had opposed the rezoning during earlier stages of the dispute, said the additional testimony presented Tuesday ultimately changed his mind.

"I was outspoken against this," said Fiori (District 3, West Ocean City). "Although the purchaser should have done some more research, in this particular case, there was enough evidence presented for me to change my mind ... It is a mistake."

Commissioners President Ted Elder said officials were under the impression there was “no business going on” when zoning changes were

considered in 1989.

“There was an actual commercial business going on there at that time.

That is what I think is the reason we should really consider this,” said Elder (District 4, Western).

The decision caps a three-year dispute that wound its way through Worcester County Circuit Court and the Appellate Court of Maryland before returning to the commissioners for a second court-ordered public hearing.

Kelly purchased the .78-acre parcel and its bunker-like warehouse in 2023 with plans to open a second Black Water Relics antique store in Snow Hill. Before she could move forward, however, the property had to be rezoned from agricultural to commercial.

Worcester County’s planning commission unanimously recommended approval of the request, but the commissioners rejected it later that year.

Under state law, a property owner seeking a rezoning must show the original zoning was based on a factual mistake, not simply argue that officials exercised poor judgment.

Kelly appealed the denial and, through her attorney, argued that county officials made a factual mistake in 1992 when they rezoned the

property as agricultural despite its long history of commercial use.

In court, Cropper said the county had wrongly assumed the 75-year-old building was a farm shed, despite records showing it had operated as a grocery and was later used for produce storage.

A Worcester County Circuit Court judge later vacated the commissioners' decision, finding they failed to explain their reasoning in public. The Appellate Court of Maryland agreed in February and sent the matter back for further review.

That ruling sent the case back to the commissioners for Tuesday's rehearing.

The courts never weighed in on whether the rezoning itself was correct, only whether the commissioners had adequately justified their original denial.

Kelly already operates a Black Water Relics store in Pocomoke City.

Renovations can now move forward at the Snow Hill location, though she must still obtain permits before opening the business.

"Obviously we're very pleased with the outcome and we're thankful to the commissioners for holding a brandnew public hearing," Cropper said.

"We think they carefully considered it and they made the right decision."

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JUNE 19, 2026

Governor learns about Diakonia’s expansion

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (June 19, 2026) Gov. Wes Moore joined Diakonia staff this week to learn more about a planned supportive living campus along Route 611.

While in town Monday for Maryland Municipal League’s summer conference, Moore and his colleagues in state government swung by Diakonia’s campus in West Ocean City, where they met with the nonprofit’s executive director, Ken Argot, to discuss how a $700,000 state grant will be used to expand shelter and support services for veterans and those in need.

As part of the visit, Moore and his team toured the facilities and met with veterans currently receiving some of the agency’s services.

“When you’re talking about people willing to risk it all, on behalf of us and our freedoms, this is the least that the state can do,” Moore told Diakonia representatives this week.

The governor’s capital budget for fiscal year 2027 includes $700,000 for Diakonia. The money, officials say, will be used to construct the first phase of a supportive living campus along Route 611.

“This will give us a new presence,” Argot said in an interview this week.

Argot said the two-phased project will take an estimated $15 million to

build. Roughly $7.2 million of that will be used to expand Diakonia’s food pantry and thrift store, and construct a new veteran support and outreach office, in the first phase.

With a capital campaign well underway, Argot said the nonprofit is seeking state and federal funds, and community donations, to support the project. With the help of state Sen. Mary Beth Carozza and Del. Wayne Hartman, Diakonia’s application for state funding was presented to the governor for inclusion in this year’s budget.

“We’re really so thankful for the local champions who got this in front of the governor and how amenable he was to the project,” Argot said.

Moore’s visit to Diakonia this week focused on veteran services, which will be a core function of the supportive living campus. In phase two, for example, 42 supportive housing units will be constructed, with a portion of those reserved for veterans.

“We pull from not just the local area, but we help statewide because a lot of people gravitate to this area,” Carozza told the governor on Monday. “When you look at some people who have benefited from the services, it really has a statewide impact.”

The campus will also feature additional office space for consultations

BETHANY HOOPER/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Gov. Wes Moore, left, is pictured with Diakonia Board Chair Brian Roberts, middle, and local businessman and philanthropist Jack Burbage, who donated the property for the campus.

and training, and an expanded thrift shop and food pantry. There, Argot said, visitors will be able to shop the pantry, rather than have food handed to them.

“We will have an expanded food pantry, which is now a 10-by-10 space that serves about 12,000 people a year ...,” he said. “We will now have four times that amount, if not more.”

Argot said the food pantry will be connected to the new thrift store, which will have a loading dock for

collecting donations. Currently, he said, pallets of food donations must be taken apart to fit through the door.

“Right now, we are storing food into eaves of the shelter,” he added.

Argot said the $700,000 state grant will be added to the $3 million in pledged funding for the project.

“It was wonderful to see how all of these different agencies worked together and crossed party lines to support this project for veterans and non-veterans,” he said.

JUNE 19, 2026

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JUNE 19, 2026

Court dismisses negligence suit against Mailloux

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By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (June 19, 2026) A civil suit filed by the family of Gavin Knupp, the 14-yearold Ocean Pines youth killed in a hitand-run accident in 2022, has been dismissed.

The case ended on June 6, nearly a year after Tiffany and Ray Knupp and their daughter, Summer Knupp, filed a suit in Worcester County Circuit Court against Tyler Mailloux – the Berlin man who pleaded guilty to a traffic offense in Knupp’s death – his mother, Kearston Frey, his stepfather, Ralph DeAngelus, his employer, Matt Ortt Companies and the Ocean Pines Association, which has a working relationship with the company.

“We have no comment other than the case has been dismissed,” Neil Dubovsky, the Knupp family’s attorney, said in a statement last Friday.

On June 25, 2025, the Knupp family sought damages on 16 counts – which included negligence, wrongful death, negligent entrustment and intentional infliction of emotional distress – following Gavin Knupp’s death. The 40-page lawsuit detailed the events that occurred on the night of July 11, 2022, when Knupp was struck and killed by a motorist on Grays Corner Road, as well as the days that followed.

“This lawsuit is the next step in holding accountable all those responsible for Gavin’s death,” Dubovsky said last summer.

The suit claimed Mailloux, as the driver of the black Mercedes involved in the accident, “made no attempts to stop and/or render aid to Gavin Knupp, failed to provide his insurance information to Gavin or Summer Knupp, never returned to the scene, and failed to report to emergency services that he had just struck a pedestrian.”

The suit also claimed that Mailloux, Frey and DeAngelus hid the Mercedes in a garage at their Berlin residence immediately following the hit-and-run.

The court document alleges the vehicle had damage consistent with a collision involving a pedestrian, including a cracked windshield, a broken headlamp, and a shoeprint on the front, right bumper.

“In addition, even if it was unknown on the evening of the collision at issue that the object Defendant Mailloux struck was a human, this would have been abundantly clear the following day,” the suit reads. “Knowing this, Defendants Mailloux, Deangelus, and Frey continued to obstruct the ongoing police investigation into the collision, by among other things, continuing to hide the vehicle in the aforementioned garage.”

The lawsuit also alleged that Mailloux had consumed alcohol after finishing his shift at the Ocean Pines Yacht See KNUPP Page 20

JUNE 19, 2026

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JUNE 19, 2026

Judge vetoes plea agreement in Shorts case

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (June 19, 2026) Former Worcester County Public Schools administrator Denise Shorts has withdrawn her plea deal with the Maryland Office of the State Prosecutor after a Worcester County Circuit Court judge rejected the agreement this week.

In a status hearing Tuesday, Judge Beau Oglesby rejected a plea agreement in which Shorts would serve 18 months’ incarceration and three years of supervised probation in exchange for pleading guilty to theft scheme and paying $118,741.89 in restitution for funds that prosecutors allege she stole from the school system over a period of six years.

Unlike a standard plea agreement, in which the judge has the full discretion to impose any sentence, regardless of whatever recommendation was made,

the agreement presented in court this week is binding, which holds the judge to the exact sentencing both parties agreed upon.

As a result, Shorts this week withdrew her agreement and guilty plea, opting instead to proceed with a bench trial at a date to be determined by the court.

Her defense counsel also objected to the Denise Shorts judge presiding over the case, according to a hearing sheet filed this week.

On April 13, one day before she was formally indicted in circuit court, Shorts signed a binding plea agreement with the Office of the State Prosecutor, which oversaw a months-long investigation into the alleged theft.

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In return for a restitution payment and a guilty plea to theft scheme of $100,000 or more – a charge that carries a maximum penalty of 20 years and/or $20,000 fine – the state office agreed to not prosecute the remaining charges and request a binding sentence of five years, with all but 18 months suspended, and three years of supervised probation.

“If the defendant does not pay restitution in full at or before sentencing, the State and Defendant will recommend a binding sentence of no more than five years’ incarceration suspend all but two years, with three years’ supervised probation,” the agreement reads.

The following day, the Office of the State Prosecutor filed charges of theft scheme, embezzlement and misconduct in office in Worcester County Circuit Court. The indictment accused Shorts of abusing her work-issued purchasing card, or P-card, by spending $118,741 in school funds on personal items through Amazon.

In a statement of facts included in the plea agreement, prosecutors say the purchases – which included clothing, shoes, makeup, electronics and more – began in 2019 and continued until she was confronted in October of last year.

They allege Shorts hid those personal purchases by altering invoices to make them appear as legitimate school system transactions.

“At the end of each monthly P-card reporting period, Shorts printed her Amazon receipt and subsequently cut out and taped different item descriptions or shipping address over the actual Amazon item description or shipping address,” the agreement reads.

“Shorts then copied the altered in-

voices and included it with her P-card statement for submission to the WCBOE finance department.”

For example, prosecutors say Shorts used her P-card to purchase a $1,869 pool vacuum, which was delivered to the Board of Education building but used at her house. They say she then altered the receipt, indicating the purchase was for a classroom area rug that was shipped to the Board of Education.

In another example, prosecutors say Shorts used her P-card to purchase five Apple iPads for a daycare center she coowns in Berlin. They say the iPads were then delivered to the Board of Education building, but used at the daycare center instead.

The Office of the State Prosecutor said in some instances, the items were covered with Title I grant funding.

Specifically, Shorts is alleged to have made $84,365 in personal purchases that she classified as Title I materials or services.

“Many of the codes provided by Shorts were for the Title I grant, indicating that the purchase was purchased for students of low-income families, when the purchases were actually personal in nature,” the agreement reads.

The alleged theft scheme came to light last July, when a state audit of Worcester County Public Schools revealed discrepancies between Amazon purchase data provided by the school system’s bank and receipts Shorts submitted. Auditors shared their findings with the Office of the State Prosecutor, which handles cases of public corruption and official misconduct.

In December, the state prosecutor’s office raided both Shorts’ home in the See PLEA Page 22

Knupp family’s lawsuit dropped Continued from Page 18 Club the night of the accident. The Yacht Club is owned by the Ocean Pines Association and was operated by Matt Ortt Companies during the time of the accident.

Both Frey and DeAngelus worked for Matt Ortt Companies – Frey as the general manager of the Ocean Pines Yacht Club, and DeAngelus as the managing partner. However, their business relationships with the company were reportedly terminated in the months that followed.

The lawsuit claimed the alleged wrongdoings by the defendants inflicted pain and suffering on the Knupps. The suit also details the emotional toll the accident had on Summer Knupp, who was present the night of the collision and performed CPR on her brother until emergency services arrived on scene.

In February 2025, Mailloux reached a deal with the Worcester County State’s Attorney’s Office in which he would plead guilty to leaving the scene of an accident where a driver “knew/reasonably

knew accident must result in death and death occurred,” according to the Maryland Transportation Code. In return, the state’s attorney’s office agreed it would not prosecute the remaining 16 traffic charges against him.

The following month, a Worcester County Circuit Court judge sentenced Mailloux to 10 years, with all but 18 months suspended, and three years of supervised probation upon his release.

Mailloux, who had been incarcerated at the Worcester County Jail since February 2025, completed his sentence in January, months earlier than his initial release date. At the time, Mailloux’s attorney, George Psoras, said his client had earned enough diminution credits for an earlier release, and would begin his three years of supervised probation.

“The short story is he completed his sentence and he did receive diminution credits,” Psoras said. “You get diminution credits for good behavior and work performed while you are incarcerated …

It’s statutory.”

JUNE 19, 2026

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JUNE 19, 2026

Brothers admit guilt to tax evasion charges (June 19, 2026) Maryland twin brothers pled guilty to tax-evasion charges in federal court Tuesday for their roles in a tax-fraud scheme.

Dennis March, 55, and Greg March, 55, both of Berlin, each pled guilty to one count of tax evasion for concealing income and failing to pay business and individual taxes.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the guilty pleas with Special Agent in Charge Kareem Carter, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), Washington D.C. Field Office.

According to their guilty pleas, from 2017 until April 2023, Dennis and Greg March both evaded paying the taxes they owed on their business and personal income-tax returns for 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022.

During this time, the March brothers

committed multiple affirmative acts in Maryland that constituted tax evasion and attempted tax evasion, the U.S. Attorney’s office said.

In total, the March brothers each unlawfully concealed more than $4.5 million in income generated from 2017 to 2023, and each failed to pay nearly $1.8 million in taxes on that income.

Beginning in 2017, and continuing into 2023, the March brothers, along with a third business partner, jointly owned and controlled various business entities and ventures, including Elite Marketing Group LLC, Elite MG LLC, and Principal Law Group. Through the operation of Principal, Elite, Elite MG, and their other entities, the March brothers and their business partner generated significant revenues and income from 2017-2023.

Instead of paying the taxes they

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owed, the March brothers worked to hide their incomes. They concealed their incomes by arranging payments to a shell entity that they controlled. This allowed the brothers to treat payments as expenses or costs of their businesses, when in reality, these payments were effectively distributions of income to themselves. The brothers also failed to file numerous legally required IRS forms, including required business and personal tax returns.

In September 2021, the March brothers sought to use the income generated through the tax-evasion scheme to purchase various real-estate properties, including in Florida, which they

jointly controlled with their business partner. Their purchases included several Florida real-estate properties worth more than $2 million and payments to a Florida building company for the construction of two homes on undeveloped Florida lots. From 2017 to 2022, the March brothers withdrew more than $3.5 million in currency from business bank accounts.

The brothers are each facing five years in federal prison for tax evasion. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing is set for Friday, Nov. 6, at 1 p.m.

Plea deal rejected for Shorts Continued from Page 20 Oyster Harbor community and her workspace at the Board of Education building in Newark.

“A search of Shorts’s home and office revealed over 500 altered invoices,” the agreement reads. “From 2019 through October 2025, Shorts used her P-Card to make $118,741.89 in purchases from Amazon for herself, her daycare, or her friends or family members, that did not benefit WCPS or WCPS students, and submitted altered invoices to support

those purchases.”

Shorts, who started her career with Worcester County Public Schools in 1989, was appointed chief academic officer for pre-K through eighth grade in 2019. She also served as the school system’s Title I grant coordinator from 2014 to 2025. Shorts resigned from the school system on March 26.

Shorts’ attorney, Brian Thompson, and State Prosecutor Charlton Howard did not respond to interview requests this week.

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PAGE 23

POLICE/COURTS

Three charged after brawl Three Delaware men have been charged after police found them engaged in a brawl on the Boardwalk.

On June 12, Ocean City police officers on patrol came upon a large fight in progress on the Boardwalk at Dorchester Street. One officer saw three men involved in the fight run from the scene.

Police saw the three men, Tramonta Smith, 25, Christopher Grady, 19, and Bryant Hartwell, 19, all of Dover, then engage in a second fight.

All three individuals tried to flee the scene to avoid police but were apprehended shortly after nearby.

City Watch camera footage showed Smith was the primary aggressor and started the fight with Grady and Hartwell. All three were seen punching each other on the footage. All three were arrested.

A search of Smith located four packaged Suboxone sublingual film strips in his wallet. Suboxone is a Schedule III controlled dangerous substance commonly abused and affiliated with opioid addiction.

After being placed in a holding cell, Smith was asked to put his hands through the food port of a jail cell for handcuffs to be removed. Smith assaulted the public safety officer by grabbing his arms and slamming him into the cell door. The officer sus-

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tained bruises and abrasions and the metal handcuff key snapped during the assault.

Smith is charged with second-degree assault, malicious destruction of property under $1,000, possession of a controlled dangerous substancenot cannabis, affray and disorderly conduct.

Grady and Hartwell were both charged with affray and disturbing the peace.

Woman bites cop A bad night out for a Pennsylvania woman became worse when she assaulted a police officer as well as a bar’s security workers.

On June 12, around 10:20 p.m., Ocean City police were dispatched to a mid-town bar for a woman who had assaulted security staff members.

Upon arrival, police located Morgan Farace, 23, of New Freedom, Pa., who immediately issued a racial slur and continued with derogatory language at the officer and security team, according to a statement of probable cause.

Police noted a group of at least 15 people observed the profanities and tirade.

Because she was creating a scene and not complying, police placed Farace under arrest. While being handcuffed, Farace began biting the responding officer’s thigh. After get-

ting her off his thigh, Farace fell to the ground and began biting his foot while kicking the officer in the knee and chest.

Farace has been charged with second-degree assault, resist/interfere with arrest, disorderly conduct, disturbing the peace and failure to obey lawful order.

Fighting charges A large fight on the Boardwalk resulted in the arrest of at least two individuals last week.

On June 10, around 11:35 pm., Ocean City police arrived at 2nd Street and the Boardwalk to break up a fight involving 10 to 15 individuals.

Among those arrested were Miles Robinson, 18, and Jakiah Taylor, 18, both of Frederick.

Police saw Robinson and Taylor throwing punches, striking another

man in the head repeatedly, and were able to apprehend them.

Robinson is charged with affray.

Taylor is charged with affray, possession of a concealed deadly weapon and disorderly conduct.

Fake tag, crack cocaine Two Marylanders found sleeping in their vehicles were arrested after drugs were located in the running vehicle.

On June 12, around 8:11 a.m., Ocean City police conducted a welfare check on a vehicle reported to be running all night at 101st Street with the windows covered.

While checking on the registration status of the vehicle, the occupants, Kelly Shoemaker, 33, of Hagerstown, Md., and Nathan Chlop, 38, of Frederick, exited the vehicle. The car was Continued on Page 24

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JUNE 19, 2026

POLICE/COURTS Continued from Page 23 found to have a fake registration tag.

When Chlop opened the door to turn off the vehicle, police recognized the odor of burnt cocaine. Chlop admitted there was a pipe inside.

A search of the vehicle located 11 pieces of burnt aluminum with residue, eight glass pipes with a mesh filter with cocaine residue, one metal canister with one gel cap pill and a dirty straw used for ingestion of crack cocaine.

Shoemaker and Chlop were each charged with controlled dangerous substance possession-not cannabis and CDS paraphernalia possession.

Malicious destruction Three Maryland men were arrested for jumping a man last Friday.

On June 12, around 4 p.m., Ocean

City police were called to investigate a robbery that had occurred at 19th Street and Baltimore Avenue. The victims told police the night before items were stolen from their hotel room.

Both victims believe they knew who had taken their property, including an Apple iPhone.

When the victim approached the men the next day, he said Christopher Giron, 18, of Upperco, Md., and Jahmere Anderson, 18, and a juvenile punched him in the face nine times.

The female victim said Anderson pushed her to the ground after she tried to help her boyfriend who was being assaulted by the three men.

About an hour after the beatdown, police located the men and arrested them for assault. Police determined through investigation there was not enough evidence to charge for the hotel room robbery allegation.

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Stolen credit card Three Maryland teens were arrested after it was confirmed they used a stolen credit to rent watercraft.

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the rental company advised three individuals — Alan C. Yanez, 18, of Silver Spring, Anthony Ramos, 19, Jimmy Ayala, 18, — were in the bay on the rentals booked with the stolen credit card.

The men offered different accounts of how they obtained the card information, settling eventually on a story they bought the card off online platform Telegram.

Yanez, Ramos and Ayala were each charged with theft $100 to under $1,500 and counts connected to credit card fraud.

Taser used to subdue Three Pennsylvania teenagers were charged with affray and disorderly conduct for their involvement in a Boardwalk brawl.

On June 11, at 10:50 p.m., Ocean City police went to break up a fight at 6th Street and the Boardwalk. Three men were seen fighting — Leonard Davis, 18, Aiden Cummings, 18, and Santana McElveen, 18, all of Easton, Pa. As Davis tried to flee the scene, he nearly knocked over a responding officer while punching another man.

Ignoring commands to stop, Davis was hit with the officer’s Taser. It took four probes to settle Davis into “neuromuscular incapacitation,” according to the police report.

All three men were charged with affray and disorderly conduct for engaging in a public fight.

More fighting Ocean City police arrested two Pennsylvania men fighting each other last weekend.

While on patrol on Baltimore Avenue on June 13 around midnight, police observed a group of six people huddled around two males fighting.

Police witnessed Jose Pacheco, 25, and Jonathan Vela, 19, both of Lancaster, Pa., punching each other repeatedly.

The men stopped fighting once the responding officer threatened to deploy his Taser.

Pacheco was charged with affray and disorderly conduct. Vela was charged with affray, disorderly conduct and possession of a fighting knife/weapon.

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OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 25

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 26

JUNE 19, 2026

I will show up because I already do

WHO AM I?

My name is Steve Green and I am asking for your vote to become your next Worcester County Commissioner in District 4.

I want to be a new leader who is accessible, transparent, available and responsive. I can utilize my small business ownership background, community service experience and natural consensus building approach in making decisions for Worcester County.

What Is My Platform?

FISCAL CONSERVATIVE

• Keeping property tax rate as low as possible • Government must live within its means • Maintain Homestead Tax Credit of 0%, protecting resident property owners from effects of rising land values

QUALITY PUBLIC SERVICE

• Government's chief role is to provide quality service to our residents • Government must provide a livable wage and quality benefits to our service providers, our employees

KEY ELECTION DETAILS ***PRIMARY ELECTION DECIDES WINNER OF SEAT June 23 Polls Open, 7 a.m.-8 p.m.

DISTRICT 4 POLLING SITES

PUBLIC SAFETY

• Without a safe community, Worcester County has nothing.

• We must commit to back our law enforcement providers and be flexible as recruitment and retentions concerns surface

PUBLIC EDUCATION

• Huge advocate for quality schools and supporting personnel within to keep best and brightest here.

Public funding is an investment in our future • I will support our public education system and review every budget request carefully with a goal of meeting full request each year

Snow Hill Middle School 522 Coulborne Ln., Snow Hill, Md. 21863 District 4, Precinct 1

AGRICULTURE

Buckingham Elementary School 100 Buckingham Rd., Berlin, Md. 21811 District 4, Precincts 2, 3

ATTAINABLE HOUSING

Showell Fire Department 11620 Worcester Hwy., Showell, Md. 21862 District 4, Precinct 4

GROWTH, DEVELOPMENT

*** Text “CHECK” To 77788 to confirm polling place

• Worcester County's tradition as a farm community must be preserved • I stand ready to defend our farmers in the face of increasing solar field pressure and development.

• A crisis that needs outside-the-box thinking and government action • Explore public-private partnerships to utilize under used county-owned lands for dense housing attainable for professionals

• Growth is important but the costs must be weighed • Comp plan is the key roadmap for Worcester County and currently under review

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT MY CAMPAIGN, VISIT:

SteveGreen4Worcester.com Authority: Steve Green for Commissioner District 4; Thomas Tawney, Treasurer

JUNE 19, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 27

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 28

JUNE 19, 2026

Berlin to host first firefighters parade Sat. Annual state convention’s highlight wanted to try new location outside Ocean City

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (June 18, 2026) Firefighters from across the state will travel through the Town of Berlin this weekend as part of the annual Maryland State Firefighters Association Parade.

In a move that steers the event off its usual Ocean City route, the MSFA will host its annual firefighter parade

in Berlin for the first time on Saturday. The event, open to any department from Maryland that wishes to attend, will kick off at 2 p.m. Participants will proceed north on Main Street near Berlin Furniture and end at the Taylor House Museum.

The fire departments will stage their equipment at Worcester Preparatory School and the Northern Worcester County Athletic Complex, with both locations opening at 10 a.m.

A shuttle service will be available from the staging areas to Downtown Berlin. Participating firefighters are

invited to patronize local shops and restaurants before the event’s afternoon start time.

According to MSFA Convention and Conference Chair Robbie Blackiston, the parade’s venue switch from Ocean City to Berlin was made to bolster fire department involvement.

While the procession invites every company from the State of Maryland, organizers have noticed a significant decline in attendees.

Blackiston said that the parade has dwindled over the last five years, with a substantial drop-off last year. The

event used to extend roughly four hours, but the 2025 event lasted only 55 minutes.

“With the difference in that, we had to find out what was going on,” he said.

The parade has historically been held on a Wednesday in Ocean City.

To get to the bottom of the decline in participation, the MSFA surveyed its members, who indicated they would like the event to be held on a weekend.

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OC Today-Dispatch

JUNE 19, 2026

JUNE 19, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

Berlin to host Touch-A-Truck event before parade starts Continued from Page 28 like to see the parade on a weekend due to not being able to take off work because of work constraints,” Blackiston said. “Our lives have changed.”

However, securing a Saturday timeslot in June in Ocean City proved to be challenging with the start of the resort’s tourist season.

Alternative locations were considered, and in January, the Berlin Council voted to designate itself as the home of the MSFA parade in 2026. “[We’re] transitioning into a small-town event instead of a big city event type thing, so we’re going to see if that helps us,” Blackiston said.

“We’ve been fortunate to work with Berlin this year.”

In addition to firefighters, music and showmanship will be part of this year’s MSFA procession. The Joseph A. Ferko String Band is set to parade with the state’s first responders.

The Joseph A. Ferko String Band was founded by pharmacist Joseph A. Ferko in 1922 and is a staple of Philadelphia’s annual Mummers Parade, the oldest continuously operating folk parade in the United States, dating back to 1901.

For parade spectators, parking will be available at Berlin Intermediate School, within walking distance of downtown, with an optional shuttle service. Local eateries and retail stores will be open before, during, and after the event.

Following the parade, the participating firefighters are invited to a reception at Ocean Downs Casino.

The post-procession gathering will kick off at 2:30 p.m. When each fire department completes the parade route, they can head straight to the casino. The afterparty will feature music, food, beverages, and an award ceremony. The awards will be handed out at 6 p.m.

The Berlin parade and Ocean Downs event will kick off the MSFA’s week-long convention, with activities scheduled through June 25 at the Ocean City convention center. The lineup of conference festivities will officially begin on Sunday, June 21, at 8 a.m.

Blackiston said while the parade has moved to Berlin this year, the convention itself will remain in Ocean City.

“We’re still in OC for our convention at the convention center like always,” he said. “We still have activities in town throughout the week. We still have a good connection with Ocean City…They still welcome us.”

Event organizers are hopeful about this year’s parade. While the MSFA has initiated an online preregistration model, any Maryland fire depart-

ment will be welcomed regardless of if they signed up beforehand.

Additionally, a Touch-A-Truck event is slated for Saturday before the parade from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Touch-A-Truck will allow kids to see and learn more about the firefighting equipment.

“I’m looking forward to the locals and everybody coming out and hopefully supporting the Maryland State Firefighter’s Association with moving the event [to Berlin],” Blackiston said.

Berlin Fire Company President David Fitzgerald added that his team has provided support to the MSFA in terms of parade logistics and permitting.

PAGE 31

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OC Today-Dispatch

JUNE 19, 2026

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OC Today-Dispatch

JUNE 19, 2026

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OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 34

JUNE 19, 2026

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OC Today-Dispatch

JUNE 19, 2026

PAGE 35

Projects reviewed by Berlin comm.

Planners offer opinions on proposed commercial work on Old Ocean City Blvd.

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (June 18, 2026) The Berlin Planning Commission urged developers to incorporate aesthetic architectural enhancements and landscaping features into two proposed commercial projects along Old Ocean City Boulevard last week during reviews of concept plans.

The proposals, presented by site plan consultant Frank Lynch and developer representatives, involve contractor shop space at 10314 Old Ocean City Boulevard and a separate office building planned for 10330 Old Ocean City Boulevard.

Lynch said the project at 10314 Old Ocean City Blvd. would consist of three contractor shop units housed in a 40-by-50-foot building attached to an existing structure on the property.

The development would also include a separate storage building at the rear of the site.

According to the applicant, the contractor shops would feature frontfacing garage doors and smaller side access doors. Additionally, the space would be designed for small businesses rather than operations with significant customer traffic.

The planning commissioners voiced no objection to the concept. However, the body emphasized the importance of creating an attractive appearance along Old Ocean City Boulevard, as the town works to establish a cohesive commercial streetscape.

Lynch said the project would include a pedestrian sidewalk and landscaping along the front of the property and assured commissioners that the finished product would be visually appealing.

Commissioners, however, expressed concern about the proposed metal building design, particularly because one side of the structure would be highly visible from the roadway.

Discussion focused on how to improve the appearance of the building, including adding windows, using multiple colors or materials, incorporating cladding finish on portions of the façade, and possibly altering the roof design. The developer said he would be willing to make changes and said future submissions would include building elevations and renderings reflecting the commission’s feedback.

Questions were also raised regarding the relationship between the proposed addition and an existing nonconforming structure on the site.

Planning Commission Chair Matt Stoehr said attaching a new building to the existing structure could require review by the Berlin Board of Zoning

Appeals.

Lynch said the development team would research the issue and determine whether additional approvals would be necessary.

The commissioners also discussed screening, landscaping, and mechanical equipment placement. Because of limited space between the proposed building and a nearby insurance office, the planners maintained that large trees would not be practical. Instead, they suggested using smaller vegetation and shrubs to soften views of the structure.

Additional concerns involved vehicle accessibility around the contractor shop units. Commissioner Logan Hall asked whether contractors towing large trailers would have enough room to maneuver around the site safely. The developer responded that the intended tenants would likely be small contractors and that parking demand was expected to be limited.

The commission also reviewed a concept plan for 10330 Old Ocean City Blvd. by the same development team. Here, developers are proposing a new office building with parking located in front of the structure, a dumpster enclosure, and landscaped open space.

Discussion of this project focused on stormwater management and the long-term maintenance of proposed

permeable pavement systems.

Hall asked what would happen if the group approved the design, and then in a few years if the site is sold, the future property owner failed to maintain the permeable pavement?

That could create drainage issues for neighboring properties, he said.

The commission acknowledged the concern, noting that stormwater maintenance is constant challenge.

“It’s been five years of this question we’ve been tossing back and forth,” Stoehr said.

The developers added that maintenance requirements would be incorporated into the stormwater management plan.

The applicant said the future office building could house a variety of tenants, such as an insurance agency or real estate office, though no occupants have been secured at this stage.

Marketing efforts are expected to begin around the preliminary approval phase.

Town staff advised the applicants to coordinate with the Maryland State Highway Administration, stormwater regulators, and the Berlin Fire Company early in the design process to avoid delays later in the review process.

No votes were taken on either proposal, as both reviews were presented to elicit the board’s opinions.

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PAGE 36

OC Today-Dispatch

JUNE 19, 2026

Tuesday primary will decide most races (June 19, 2026) Worcester County residents won’t have to wait until November to learn who will shape the future of county government.

Five county commissioner races will be settled by Tuesday’s primary election, with only one race advancing to the general election and one incumbent running unopposed. From the start of this term in 2022, this group of commissioners has found themselves split philosophically over issues of growth, development, school funding, and the role county government should play in long-term planning.

Here’s how the races break down: COUNTY COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 1 (SOUTHERN) The county's largest district by area, District 1 covers much of southern Worcester County, from Pocomoke City to Public Landing, with farmland and low-density residential areas.

Candidate Caryn Abbot (R) – incumbent Background: First-term county commissioner representing the Southern district.

Campaign themes: Prot e c t i n g Worcester County's rural character, fiscal responsibility and local control.

P u b l i c messaging: Abbott's campaign emphaCaryn Abbot sizes her record in office, portraying herself as a defender of farms, rural communities and local values against outside interests. She frequently highlights tax relief, public safety, responsible growth and government accountability, while stressing oversight of public spending and school finances.

Key priorities: Lower taxes, responsible growth, public safety, agriculture, fiscal responsibility and government accountability.

Candidate Laura Morrison (R) Background: Pocomoke-area businesswoman with 45 years in the insurance industry, longtime community volunteer.

Campaign themes: Collaboration, education and southern Worcester County representation.

Laura Morrison P u b l i c

messaging: Morrison describes herself as a public servant and consensusbuilder focused on bringing people together to solve problems. Her campaign emphasizes stronger support for schools, teachers, and first responders.

Key priorities: Education funding, support for public safety, responsible growth, affordable housing and economic development in southern Worcester County.

Candidate: Shaun Shockley (R) Background: Owner of Smith Septic Service and a longtime Worcester County businessman.

Campaign themes: Infrastructure, utilities and public safety.

P u b l i c messaging: Shockley argues county government needs more practical expertise in Shaun Shockley water-sewer systems and long-range infrastructure planning. He has also highlighted concerns about EMS staffing and paramedic recruitment.

Key priorities: Water-sewer management, infrastructure planning and emergency services COUNTY COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 2 (CENTRAL) A long, narrow district that acts almost like a corridor from Pocomoke City through Snow Hill and up toward Berlin. It has significant length but not as much width.

Candidate: Diana Purnell (D) – incumbent Background: Three-term county commissioner representing the Central district and the first Black woman elected to the Worcester County Board of Commissioners.

Campaign themes: Experience, constituent service and community advocacy.

P u b l i c Diana Purnell messaging: Purnell's campaign emphasizes her experience in office and long-standing ties to the community. She frequently highlights constituent services, support for local communities, and efforts to ensure all areas of the county have a voice in county government.

Key priorities: Community advocacy, public services, economic opportunity and continued representation for Central district residents.

Candidate: Roxie Dennis (D) Background: Berlin resident with 30 years’ experience in Wicomico County Public Schools as a teacher and student advisor. She is also a pastor and has served as her local branch president of the NAACP. Campaign themes: Education, jail ref o r m , housing, and Roxie Dennis quality-of-life issues.

Public messaging: Dennis has focused her campaign on improving opportunities for working families and addressing challenges facing county residents. She emphasizes support for education, affordable housing, economic opportunity and strengthening community resources.

Key priorities: Education, affordable housing, workforce development, community investment and economic opportunity.

COUNTY COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 3 (SINEPUXENT) Narrow and coastal, the district occupies a substantial portion of the mainland east of Berlin, including much of the Assateague-facing side of the county.

This race is a rematch of the 2022 election, when both ran as first-time candidates and Fiori won by 37 votes.

Candidate: Eric Fiori (R) – incumbent Background: First-term county commissioner, business owner and entrepreneur. Fiori founded Bayside Jet Drive and is also involved in commercial property development and hospitality businesses.

Campaign themes: Econ o m i c growth, busiEric Fiori ness experience, and community leadership.

Public messaging: Fiori's campaign emphasizes his record as a commissioner and his background as a local entrepreneur. He argues that his experience in business, construction and

development helps him navigate issues involving growth, infrastructure and economic opportunity while advancing Worcester County's interests.

He’s also been vocal about efforts to stymie a proposed offshore wind project.

Key priorities: Economic development, growth and development planning, water-sewer infrastructure, education and continued investment in communities.

Candidate: Tim VanVonno (R) Background: Entrepreneur, developer and construction professional.

Campaign themes: Smart growth, infrastructure and practical leadership.

P u b l i c messaging: VanVonno's campaign emphasizes his experience in business, development and project management.

Tim VanVonno He’s argued Worcester County needs practical, results-oriented leadership. His messaging highlights schools, water and wastewater infrastructure, public safety, and responsible growth while stressing accessibility and responsiveness to residents.

Key priorities: Strong schools, responsible growth, clean water, infrastructure improvements, workforce housing, public safety and economic development.

COUNTY COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 4 (WESTERN) The district spans much of the county's western interior and reaches from the Wicomico line east toward Berlin and Delaware line south to Snow Hill.

Candidate: Ted Elder (R) – incumbent Background: Three-term county commissioner representing the Western district and current board president, former school bus driver.

Campaign themes: Fiscal conservatism, public safety and quality-of-life investments.

P u b l i c messaging: Elder's camTed Elder paign focuses heavily on accomplishments during his tenure, including Worcester

JUNE 19, 2026

PAGE 37

OC Today-Dispatch

Commissioners face tough opposition County's first AAA bond rating, tax reductions, broadband expansion, new library facilities and investments in parks and recreation. He frequently highlights conservative budgeting practices and opposition to large county-funded projects he views as unnecessary.

Key priorities: Fiscal responsibility, broadband expansion, public safety, parks and recreation, and limiting the impact of state cost shifts on county taxpayers.

Candidate: Steve Green (R) Background: Berlin town councilman and newspaper editor running for the Western district seat.

Campaign themes: Independent leadership, transparency and responsible growth.

Public messaging: Green presents himself as an independentSteve Green m i n d e d candidate focused on long-term planning, open government and balancing growth with preservation of Worcester County's character.

His campaign stresses listening to residents, improving government transparency and making decisions based on community needs rather than political interests.

Key priorities: Responsible development, government transparency, infrastructure planning, environmental stewardship and fiscal accountability.

Candidate: Virgil Shockley (R) Background: Snow Hill farmer and former county commissioner who served 16 years on the board, including time as board president.

Campaign themes: Experience, fiscal management and county leadership.

P u b l i c messaging: Shockley is emphasizing Virgil hockley his previous service as a county commissioner and his familiarity with county government. His campaign argues that experienced leadership and knowledge of county operations are valuable as Worcester County faces future financial and growth-related decisions.

Key priorities: Fiscal responsibility, county services and experienced leadership.

COUNTY COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 5 (OCEAN PINES)

COUNTY COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 6 (BISHOPVILLE)

Most District 5’s territory is the community of Ocean Pines itself and adjoining developed areas.

The winner of this race will move onto the Nov. 3 general election to face Democratic candidate Vicky Wallace.

A moderate-sized district covering Bishopville, northern Berlin-area communities, and parts of Ocean Pines.

Considerably smaller than Districts 1– 4.

Candidate: Anthony “Chip” Bertino (R) – incumbent Background: Three-term commissioner representing Ocean Pines and the surrounding district.

Campaign themes: Fiscal responsib i l i t y , taxpayer advocacy and continuity.

Public messaging: Bertino's campaign centers on his experiChip Bertino ence in office and his role as an advocate for taxpayers. He frequently emphasizes careful spending, fiscal discipline and protecting county services while maintaining Worcester County's strong financial position. He’s been vocal about protecting constituents from unfair financial burdens.

Key priorities: Fiscal responsibility, taxpayer protection, county services and representing Ocean Pines residents.

Candidate: Joseph Schanno (R) Background: Ocean Pines resident with experience in hospitality, banking, and government.

Campaign themes: Affordability, infrastructure and local control.

Public messaging: Schanno argues Worcester County needs to better manage Joe Schanno growth while protecting taxpayers and existing communities.

His campaign emphasizes housing affordability, infrastructure improvements, public safety and ensuring Ocean Pines residents receive fair treatment on issues such as water and sewer rates.

Key priorities: Housing affordability, water and sewer rates, public safety, infrastructure improvements, education and opposition to offshore wind projects.

Candidate: Lou Taylor (R) Background: Retired Worcester County Public Schools superintendent and former member of the county Board of Zoning Appeals.

Campaign themes: Experience, collaboration and longrange planning.

Public messaging: Taylor argues his decades Lou Taylor managing large public institutions and budgets make him well-suited to county government. His campaign emphasizes bringing people together and maintaining strong county services.

Key priorities: Fiscal management, education, intergovernmental cooperation and responsible growth.

Candidate: Sherrie Clifford (R) Background: Publisher of the Ocean Pines ROC newspaper and member of the Ocean Pines Budget and Finance Advisory Committee.

Campaign themes: Accountability, transparency and taxpayer oversight.

P u b l i c messaging: Clifford has positioned herself as an Sherrie Clifford independent watchdog candidate, arguing that county government benefits from tougher scrutiny and greater public transparency.

Key priorities: Government accountability, careful spending, taxpayer protection and public engagement.

COUNTY COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 7 (OCEAN CITY) Geographically, the district is the smallest but the most densely populated, and includes the entirety of the corporate boundaries of the Town of Ocean City.

In this election, Mitrecic is running unopposed – as he has for every commissioners’ election since he first ran

for the seat in 2010.

Candidate: Joe Mitrecic (R) – incumbent Background: Four-term incumbent, owner of a contracting and home building company, former Ocean City Councilman.

Campaign themes: Experience, fisc a l stewardship, and economic development.

Public messaging: A self-described budget hawk, Mitrecic emJoe Mitrecic phasizes his experience in county government and his role in managing growth and economic development. He frequently highlights tourism, infrastructure, and maintaining county services while protecting taxpayers.

Key priorities: Economic development, infrastructure, tourism, fiscal responsibility and county services.

WORCESTER COUNTY SHERIFF Candidate: Matt Crisafulli (R) – incumbent Background: Elected sheriff in 2018 after a long career with the Worcester County Sheriff's Office. Former DARE officer and current vice president of the Maryland Sheriffs' Association, slated to become its president if reelected.

Campaign themes: Public safety, Matt Crisafulli leadership, deputy recruitment and retention, school safety, and advocacy against state mandates affecting law enforcement.

Public messaging: Crisafulli presents himself as a proven leader who has modernized the sheriff's office through expanded training, mental health support programs, and improved deputy compensation. He argues law enforcement agencies are facing growing challenges from staffing shortages and state policies that increasingly restrict local policing and cooperation with federal authorities.

Key priorities: Deputy recruitment and retention, school resource officers, officer wellness, professional training, and public safety partnerships.

See SHERIFF’S Page 38

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PAGE 38

JUNE 19, 2026

Sheriff’s Office, Orphans Court have races too Continued from Page 37 Candidate: Jeff Buhrt (R) Background: Retired sheriff's office lieutenant with 27 years at the agency and 35 years in law enforcement overall. Military veteran with service in the Marine Corps and Army Reserve, including two combat deployments.

Currently employed by the Somerset County Sheriff's Office.

Jeff Buhrt Campaign t h e m e s : Staffing, deputy safety, fiscal restraint, recruitment, and operational efficiency.

Public messaging: Buhrt argues the sheriff's office should focus resources on front-line personnel and public safety functions while scrutinizing spending. He identifies recruitment and retention as the agency's biggest challenge and promotes practical solutions such as reserve deputy programs and stronger hiring pipelines.

Key priorities: Road patrol staffing, recruitment and retention, deputy

safety, reserve deputy programs, budget oversight, school resource officers, and maintaining core law enforcement services.

year term rolls over on Jan. 1.

This race has one Democratic candidate, Martin Radinsky, who will appear on the general election ballot.

OTHER PRIMARY RACES TO WATCH: House of Delegates District 37A: Candidates Tim Howlett and C.L. Marshall are vying to fill the seat vacated by the death of longtime Delegate Charles Otto last year.

The remaining 11 months of Otto’s term were temporarily filled by the gubernatorial nomination of Kevin Anderson, but Anderson did not file to run for the full term. The legislative district includes about a third of Worcester County.

Judge of the Orphan’s Court: While this three-judge panel spends most of its time helping families settle estates when a person dies, it also steps in to protect the money and property of children who lose their parents.

Republican candidates include incumbent Cheryl Jacobs and newcomers Mary Burgess, Lisa Mitchell, and John Simms III. Two incumbents on the court, Judges Michael Diffendal and Linda Hess, have not filed for reelection, so there could be three new faces on the panel when a new four-

UNCONTESTED PRIMARIES State’s Attorney Kristin Heiser, Circuit Court Clerk Susan Braniecki, and Registers of Wills Terri Delaney Wescott are all running unopposed.

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District 1 — Southern Precinct Polling Place Address 1-1 Pocomoke Community Center, 1410 Market St., Pocomoke City, MD 21863 1-2 First Baptist Church (Girdletree), 5912 Taylor Landing Rd., Girdletree, MD 21829

District 2 — Central Precinct Polling Place Address 2-1 Shiloh United Methodist Church, 2655 Worcester Hwy., Pocomoke, MD 21851 2-2 Snow Hill Middle School, 522 Coulbourne Ln., Snow Hill, MD 21863 2-3 Newark Volunteer Fire Department, 8338 Newark Rd., Newark, MD 21841 2-4 Stephen Decatur Middle School, 9815 Seahawk Rd., Berlin, MD 21811 2-5 Stephen Decatur Middle School, 9815 Seahawk Rd., Berlin, MD 21811

District 3 — Sinepuxent Precinct Polling Place Address 3-1 Ocean City Elementary School, 12828 Center Dr., Ocean City, MD 21842 3-2 Ocean City Lions Club, 12534 Airport Rd., Berlin, MD 21811 3-3 Stephen Decatur Middle School, 9815 Seahawk Rd., Berlin, MD 21811

4-1 Snow Hill Middle School, 522 Coulbourne Ln., Snow Hill, MD 21863 4-2 Buckingham Elementary School, 100 Buckingham Rd., Berlin, MD 21811 4-3 Buckingham Elementary School, 100 Buckingham Rd., Berlin, MD 21811 4-4 Showell Fire Department, 11620 Worcester Hwy., Showell, MD 21862

District 5 — Ocean Pines Precinct Polling Place Address 5-1 Showell Elementary School, 11318 Showell School Rd., Berlin, MD 21811 5-2 Ocean Pines Library, 11107 Cathell Rd., Berlin, MD 21811

District 6 — Northern Precinct Polling Place Address 6-1 Ocean Pines Community Center (Assateague Room), 239 Ocean Pkwy., Ocean Pines, MD 21811 6-2 Showell Elementary School, 11318 Showell School Rd., Berlin, MD 21811 6-3 Bishopville Fire Department, 10709 Bishopville Rd., Bishopville, MD 21813

District 7 — Ocean City Precinct Polling Place Address 7-1 Princess Royale Oceanfront Resort (Palmetto Room), 9100 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, MD 21842 ** * Publisher’s note: District 4 candidate Steve Green is employed as an editor by OC Today-Dispatch.

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JUNE 19, 2026

Berlin approves date change for Fiddlers weekend

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (June 19, 2026) The Berlin mayor and Town Council last week approved a request from the Berlin Chamber of Commerce to change the dates of the 2026 Fiddlers Convention and to confirm plans for the return of the town’s Jazz and Blues event in 2027.

The date change comes after the cancellation of the Maryland Folk Festival in Salisbury, which had prompted organizers initially to move the Fiddlers Convention to a later weekend in September.

Departing Chamber President Garrett Neville told council members the Fiddlers Convention was originally scheduled for Sept. 25-26, 2026, in an effort to avoid conflicting with the Maryland Folk Festival.

While the later September timeslot coincided with the Oceans Calling music weekend in Ocean City, the chamber felt that given the nature of the Fiddler’s Convention, it would be best not to occur on the same days as the similar folk festival.

“Since approval, [the Maryland Folk Festival] has been canceled,” Neville said. “We’re hoping to move it to Friday, Sept. 18 and Saturday, Sept. 19 in an effort to not conflict with Oceans Calling in Ocean City.”

Under the approved change, Sept.

25-26 will now serve as the event’s rain dates.

Councilman Steve Green voiced support for the adjustment.

“I was concerned about it conflicting with Oceans Calling,” Green said.

The Maryland Folk Festival was recently canceled after organizers cited funding challenges. Salisbury officials have described the decision as a pause while they explore future programming for fall 2027.

Berlin Council members also approved a request related to the town’s Jazz and Blues event, which organizers announced last year would take a oneyear hiatus in 2026.

Neville said the event was postponed to provide a break for town staff and volunteers while allowing organizers additional time to secure entertainment and sponsorships.

“Jazz and Blues [is] postponed to 2027 to give a break to staff and bring it back in 2027,” Neville said. “We’re asking for approval of the date of Saturday, May 15, [2027] in an effort to secure the best sponsorships.”

The chamber’s letter noted that plans to postpone the festival were first presented to town officials in October. To move forward with booking performers and sponsors in a timely matter, organizers requested official approval of May 15, 2027, as the event date, with May 22, 2027 designated as the rain date.

The council unanimously approved the revised Fiddlers Convention dates and the 2027 Jazz and Blues schedule.

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 39

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OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 40

JUNE 19, 2026

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Surf Club holding weekend events (June 19, 2026) The Ocean City Surf Club has a busy weekend planned, including a Surf Fest, Surf Swap Meet and Ward Kovacs Memorial Paddle Out. Located at 37th Street oceanfront, the Surf Fest will take place on Saturday, June 20 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

A Surf Swap Meet is planned for Fager’s Island on Sunday, June 21, from noon to 3 p.m.

The Ward Kovacs Memorial Paddle Out will be held Sunday, June 21 at 37th Street at 6 p.m.

Additionally, this weekend includes a legends induction, community awards and scholarship awards. Four deserving seniors will receive $10,000 each for their next step in their educational journey. This event happens at Barn 34 on June 19 at 6 p.m.

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thing Goes Surf Contest allows competitors to ride any type of board they want. A five-man team format makes it even more interesting. Surfers will manage their time to allow each surfer enough time to catch a high scoring wave. There will be a surf club tent in place selling T-shirts, taking donations, information will be available to become a member. The event is the club’s biggest fundraiser of the year.

The funds generated stay in this community and fund our many programs.

• Sunday is the Surf Swap at Fager’s Island from noon-3 p.m. You will be able sell, trade or acquire all kinds of Surf Goods. This is a way to clean out your old surfboards, skateboards, boogie boards, swim fins, surf t shirts, etc.

We will have folks to sign you in. Come out enjoy a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon at Fager’s. 25% off all of the swap meet sales go the Ocean City Surf Club. Fager’s Island will have food specials during the event.

• Sunday, 6 p.m. Ocean City Surf Club and Ocean City Beach Patrol will come together at 6 p.m. on 37th Street to have a Memorial Paddle Out for Ward Kovacs. A true waterman, Kovacs spent decades guarding beaches, mentoring youth, and being the constant presence in this community. He was and will always be someone respected and loved. This will be a traditional Hawaiian style paddle out. Bring your boards. Fellowship and a bonfire on the beach will follow the paddle out.

All are welcome to attend.

OC Today-Dispatch

JUNE 19, 2026

PAGE 41

MURAL UNDERWAY Muralists Olga Deshields and Dawn Tara continued their work Tuesday on a community mural for the Maryland’s Coast building on Pearl Street in Snow Hill.

BRIAN SHANE/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH

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OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 42

JUNE 19, 2026

PHOTOS COURTESY OF GARRETT NEVILLE, GOOD BOY MFG

BATHTUB RACES IN BERLIN The 36th Annual Berlin Bathtub Races were held last Friday evening in downtown Berlin. Hosted by the Berlin Chamber of Commerce, this event featured creatively designed, bathtub-inspired vehicles racing down Main Street to compete for speed, style, and bragging rights. In the end, it was a photo finish between Seaside Plumbing and Pohanka, which was ruled the winner for the third consecutive year. The team is pictured above right with Chamber Executive Director David Fitzgerald. Other scenes are pictured from the event.

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PAGE 43

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• Endorsed by the • Fought to Secure Funding Worcester County For the New Buckingham Teachers Association Elementary School & other school projects throughout • Endorsed by the the county F.O.P. Lodge 50 • Focus on Fiscal • Supporting our First Responsibility Responders with & Accountability increased funding • Lowered Property Tax Rate • Community is my priority, building a better Worcester • Supports Economic Development for all today for a brighter future. residents • Building a better future by supporting our students • Promotes positive growth and the Board of Education in the county • Supports replacement and housing rehabilitation program

Primary Election Day: June 23, 2026 • 7am-8pm Newark Fire Company • Snow Hill Middle School Shiloh UMC • Stephen Decatur Middle School

BY AUTHORITY OF ROXANNE ROUNDS, TREASURER

PAGE 44

OC Today-Dispatch

JUNE 19, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

JUNE 19, 2026

COMMUNITY BRIEFS

Scholarships awarded Three Stephen Decatur High School graduates have been awarded scholarships of $3,000 each by the Ocean City Lodge of the Sons and Daughters of Italy. The awards went to April Bondurant of Ocean Pines, Sophia Ferrante of Ocean City, and Laila Pascucci of Berlin, all three of whom were in the top ten percent of their graduating class.

The funds were raised by another successful St. Joseph’s Day Festival held in March each year.

Bondurant has been accepted into the University of MaryApril Bondurant land’s Environment Technology and Economics Scholars program. At Stephen Decatur she was active in, among other things, Students Against Destructive Decisions, and the Mu Sophia Ferrante Alpha Theta Math honors society. Recipient of the school’s Sportsmanship Award, she also testified on fairness in girls’ sports before the Maryland State Senate Education, Energy and EnviLaila Pascucci ronment committee to provide a student athlete perspective on women’s sports.

She was Captain of the Girls’ basketball team at Stephen Decatur, and manager of the football team.

Ferrante of Ocean City will join the Honors Program at Clemson University as a business major in marketing and accounting. She volunteered during her high school years with the Believe in Tomorrow Foundation, Randy’s Crew and Camp Horizon.

She is a member of both the National Honor Society and the National English Honor Society and was a student representative to the Worcester County Board of Education. She also won a Presidential Service Award and participated in Students Against Destructive Decisions at the high school.

Pascucci has been accepted in the Honors program at Clemson University School of Biological Sciences to pursue dentistry. A member of the National Honor Society and Key Club, Laila also was a National Ambassador

for Morgan’s Message, an organization dedicated to overcoming that strives to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health within the student-athlete community. She was captain of the girl’s lacrosse team, played soccer and was a soccer camp counselor at Ocean City Elevate, a local soccer camp.

Student achievements The following represents a collection of press releases from universities and colleges about local students accomplishments.

- College of Charleston students named to the President's List for Spring included Elaina Elrick of Berlin and Madilyn Nechay of Berlin. College of Charleston students name to the Dean's List for Spring included Hayes Peterson of Berlin and Caroline Taylor of Berlin. Receiving undergraduate degrees were Peterson of Berlin, with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, and Taylor, with a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management.

- At the 168th commencement ceremony at Frostburg State University in May, the following area residents were among the 591 candidates for degrees. John D'Amico Jr of Ocean City and Noah Fisher of Berlin.

- McDaniel College announces its spring 2026 dean's list, recognizing full-time undergraduate students for outstanding academic achievement, including Evie Eggers of Berlin, who has been recognized with Highest Honors; Ethan Gell of Snow Hill, who has been recognized with Highest Honors; Jacob Hicks of Ocean City, who has been recognized with High Honors; and Noah Honick of Snow Hill (21863), who has been recognized with Highest Honors.

- McDaniel College awarded 388 bachelor's degrees during the college's Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony. Local graduates included Chloe T. Candeloro of Bishopville who graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and Abby Lace Wesche of Bishopville who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology.

- James Madison University announced the following students made the President's List for the spring 2026 semester - Ella Gaddis of Berlin, who is majoring in Elementary Education – BS and Charley Corey of Ocean City, who is majoring in Finance - BBA.

Local News • Entertainment • Sports Classifieds • Obituaries • Business Legals • Calenndar • Lifestylee • Opinion www w.octoda octodayd dispatch.com dispa tch com

PAGE 45

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OC Today-Dispatch

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JUNE 19, 2026

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PAGE 46

BEAC ACH NEW HO HOM MES AT THE E BEACH BEA FROM THE $20 $200S–$800 –$ $800S

Delaware Acadia Landing LEWES, DE Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Mid $400s

ballenger creek HARBESON, DE Coming Soon Single Family Homes

four winds farm MIL LT TON, DE Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Upper $400s

SOUTH SHORE Plantation n Lakes Golf & Countr ry y Cl lub

liber rt ty east MILLSBORO, O, DE

Now Selling Single Family Home es, from the Low $300s

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Newdale acres ELLENDALE, DE

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Now Selling Villas and T To ownhom mes from the Upper $200s

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the oaks GEORGETOWN, D DE

Pelican Point MILLSBORO, DE

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FRANKFORD, DE mes, Coming Soon Single Family Hom Townhomes, and Villas To

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Somer rt ton Chase MILLSBORO, O, DE

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LennarAtTheBeach.com | 302.660.1366 Images are solely for illustrative purposes and should never be relied upon. YYoou should never rely on the accuracy of photographs or videos in making any decisions relative to purchasing any property. We reserve the right to makee changes at any time without notice. Please see your New Home Consultant and home purchase agreement for actual features designated as an Everything’s Included feature, additional information, disclosures, and disclaimers relating to your hhome and its

relied upon. You should never rely on the accuracy of this map in making any decisions relative to purchasing any property. Visit Lennar.com or see a Lennar New Home Consultant for further details and important legal disclaimers. Void where prohibited by law. Copyright © 2026 Lennar Corporation Lennar, the Lennar logo are U.S. registered service marks or service marks of Lennar Corporation and/or its subsidiaries. U.S. Home Corporation, MHBR #316. Date 005/26

JUNE 19, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 47

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

FACULTY AWARDS PRESENTED Two Wor-Wic Community College professors were recently honored with the 2025-2026 President’s Distinguished Faculty Award, sponsored by the Wor-Wic Foundation. Dr. David Mongor-Lizarrabengoa, associate professor of Spanish, and Melissa Reddish, associate professor of English, were presented with the awards by Deborah Casey, Ph.D., president of Wor-Wic. They were the top two chosen by a faculty peer review committee from nominations from faculty, staff and students. Both awardees received multiple nominations. Pictured, from left, are Casey, Mongor-Lizarrabengoa, Reddish and Dr. Karie Solembrino, vice president for academic affairs.

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PAGE 48

Who’s Where When BLU CRABHOUSE / DISTRICT 24 410-289-3322 24th Street Bayside Fri., June 19: Loud Moon Sat., June 20: Beach Bandits Thurs., June 25: Bryan & The Barn Owls

OC Today-Dispatch

Best Beats On The Beach

BURLEY OAK BREWING COMPANY 443-513-4647 10016 Old Ocean City Blvd., Berlin Sat., June 20: Sketchbook Wed., June 24: Slomfire CARIBBEAN POOL BAR 410-289-6181 In The Plim Plaza Hotel 109 N. Atlantic Ave. Fri., June 19: TBA & Rogue Citizens Sat., June 20: Chris Diller Band & Star Spangled Sun., June 21: Boogiemen & Liz & Steve Mon., June 22: DJ Series & Dust N Bones Duo Tues., June 23: Kelsey Briggs Duo & Ben Davis Wed., June 24: True Country (Solo) & Johnny Cardo Thurs., June 25: Sketchbook & Chicken Charlie

THE 1974 Fager’s Island: Monday, June 22

DJ MARY JANE Purple Moose: Fri., June 19 Seacrets: Sat. & Sun., June 20 & 21

PHIL PERDUE Captain’s Table: Fridays & Saturdays

KARAOKE W/ DJ NICK HUNDLEY Buxy’s: Wednesdays

DJ GROOVE Fager’s Island: Thurs., June 25

CAPTAIN’S TABLE 410-289-7192 15th & Boardwalk In The Courtyard Marriott Fridays & Saturdays: Phil Perdue

COINS PUB 410-289-3100 28th Street Plaza On Coastal Hwy. Fri, June 19: Shortcut Sunny Sat., June 20: Jim Long & First Class Sundays: DJ Wax Tues., June 23: Jamin Brothers

DARIN ENGH Coconuts Beach Bar: Fri., June 19

DJ BIGLER Harborside: Saturdays

BUXY’S SALTY DOG & DRY DOCK 28 410-289-BUXY 28th Street Coastal Hwy. Fri., June 19: DJ Wax Sat., June 20: Aaron Howell Sundays: Locals Night w/ DJ Deogee Wednesdays: Karaoke w/ DJ Nick Hundley Thurs., June 25: Johnny Cardo

COCONUTS BEACH BAR 410-289-6846 Oceanfront At Castle In The Sand Hotel 37th & 38th Streets Fri., June 19: Darin Engh & Beach Bandits Sat., June 20: Loud Moon & Top Dead Center Sun., June 21: Margot & Val & The Castaway Band Mon., June 22: Nate Clendenen & Fil Rhythm Tues., June 23: Amber Hopkins & All The Vibes Wed., June 24: Joey Fitz & The Day Drinkers Thurs., June 25: Kevin Poole & Joe Mama & Full Circle

JUNE 19, 2026

DJ BILLY T Harborside: Fridays & Wednesdays

SURREAL Purple Moose: Friday & Saturday, June 19 & 20

JIM LONG Coins Pub: Saturdays

BEATS BY DEOGEE Pickles Pub: Fridays Buxy’s Salty Dog: Sundays

JAH WORKS Seacrets: Friday & Saturday, June 19 & 10

NATE CLENDENEN Coconuts Beach Bar: Sun., June 21 Noon Fish Tales: Sun., June 21 4pm

CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE 302-988-5000 37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54, Selbyville, DE Fri., June 19: Dave Wimbrow Sun., June 21: Fil Rhythm Tues., June 23: C-Miller Wed., June 24: Johhny Phatt FAGER’S ISLAND 410-524-5500 60th St., In The Bay Fri., June 19: John Frase Project, DJ Accelerate & Radio Hero Sat., June 20: Firekite, DJ Cruz & Radio Hero

FIL RHYTHM Crabcake Factory Bayside: Sun., June 21 Coconuts Beach Bar: Mon., June 22

IDENTITY CRISIS Jolly Jellyfish: Sunday, June 21

DJ WAX Buxy’s: Fri., June 19 Coins Pub: Sun., June 21 Pickles Pub: Tuesdays Fish Tales: Wednesdays

JUNE 19, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 49

Who’s Where When Mon., June 22: Deck Party The 1974, Jumper & DJ Stinson Tues., June 23: Saltwater Sweat Line Dancing Wed., June 24: DJ Hector Thursdays: DJ Groove

AARON HOWELL DUO Buxy’s Salty Dog: Saturday, June 20

LNJ SESSIONS Pickles Pub: Saturday, June 20

SLOMFIRE Burley Oak: Wednesday, June 24

CECILIA’S FALL Harborside: Saturday, June 20

FISH TALES 410-289-0990 22nd Street & The Bay Sat., June 20: Charlie Travers Sun., June 21: Nate Clendenen Wednesdays: DJ Wax HARBORSIDE 410-213-1846 South Harbor Rd., West End O.C. Fridays: DJ Billy T Sat., June 20: Cecilia’s Fall & DJ Bigler Sundays: Opposite Directions & Charlie Travers Wednesdays: DJ Billy T Thursdays: Dust N Bones JOLLY JELLYFISH BEACH CLUB 443-664-6147 98th Street Coastal Hwy., Plaza Condominium Fri., June 19: Monkee Paw Sat., June 20: Colossal Fossil Sauce Sun., June 21: Identity Crisis Mon., June 22: First Class Tues., June 23: Soul Chase Wed., June 24: Joe Mama & Friends Thurs., June 25: Lennon LaRicci & The Leftovers PICKLES PUB 410-289-4891 8th Street & Philadelphia Ave. Fridays: Beats By DeoGee Sat., June 20: LNJ Sessions Mon., June 22: Karaoke w/ Wood Tuesdays: Beats By Wax Wednesdays: Beats By C-Miller Thursdays: Beats By Connair

FIRST CLASS Coins Pub: Saturday, June 20

MARGOT & VAL Coconuts Beach Bar: Sunday, June 21

RADIO HERO Fager’s Island: Friday & Saturday, June 19 & 20

BOOGIEMEN Caribbean Pool Bar: Sunday, June 21 The Wedge: Every Tuesday

FULL CIRCLE Seacrets: Wednesday, June 24 (Duo) Coconuts Beach Bar: Thursday, June 25

BALLYHOO Seacrets: Wednesday, June 24 (Ticket Event)

PURPLE MOOSE SALOON 410-289-6953 Between Caroline & Talbot Streets On The Boards Fri., June 19: Surreal & DJ Mary Jane Sat., June 20: Johnny Cardo (2pm), Surreal & DJ Papi Sun., June 21: Purple Sundays 3 Guest DJs Mon-Thurs: DJ Nightly SEACRETS 410-524-4900 49th Street & Coastal Hwy. Fri., June 19: DJ J-Spinz, DJ Davie, DJ E-State, Jah Works, Lost In Paris & Steal The Sky Sat., June 20: Shredded Cheddar, Jah Works, DJ Mary Jane, Screaming Monkeys, DJ Davie, DJ Bobby O, DJ E-State & Garden State Radio Sun, June 21: DJ Mary Jane, DJ Davie, DJ E-State & Kono Nation Mon., June 22: Blake Haley & DJ Wax Tues., June 23: DJ J-Spinz, Carley Twigg, DJ Davie & Turning The Tide Wed., June 24: DJ E-State, Full Circle Duo, DJ J-Spinz, The Benderz & Ballyhoo (Ticket Event) Thurs, June 25: Shredded Cheddar, DJ E-State, DJ Davie & Kristen & The Noise THE WEDGE 410-289-5121 806 S. Atlantic Ave. Mon., June 22: Joe Esham, Tues., June 23: Boogiemen Wed., June 24: Kasey Briggs & Charlie Travers

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

DOWNTOWN

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

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

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

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

Open daily, 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

■ DISTRICT 24: BLUE CRABHOUSE& RAW BAR, JAY’S CAFÉ, CRAFT BEER & 1945 STEAK & SEAFOOD HOUSE 2305 Philadelphia Ave, Ocean City 410289-3322, district24oc.com $$-$$$ | Reservations | Kids’ Menu | Full bar Nestled on 24th Street Bayside in Ocean City, Maryland, District 24 stands as one destination brimming with endless possibilities. On the first floor, Blu Crabhouse & Raw Bar invites you to indulge in all-you-can-eat blue crabs, easy-peel shrimp, golden fried chicken, and so much more, while Jay’s Café serves breakfast sandwiches all day alongside La Colombe coffee, fresh pastries, and delicious lunch creations. Just steps away, CRAFT Bar delivers smash burgers, crispy wings, craft pizzas, an impressive selection of craft beer, handcrafted cocktails, and more. Rising above it all on the third floor, the stunning new 1945 Steak & Seafood offers breathtaking rooftop views, in-house hand-cut chops, exceptional seafood favorites, vibrant Mediterranean cuisine, and thoughtful bourbon and wine pairings. Let’s face it—there’s simply more at District 24.

■ FISH TALES 2107 Herring Way, Ocean City, 410-2890990, 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 410289-5121, www.harborwatchrestaurant.com $$-$$$ | Reservations | Kids’ Menu | Full bar Celebrating our 42nd year with fresh seafood, an award-winning raw bar, mouthwatering steaks and the best view of the Ocean City Inlet and Assateague Island. Open every day, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Call for banquet and large-party details.

■ PICKLES PUB 706 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 410289-4891, picklesoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Easy to find with plenty of free parking, serving lunch, dinner and entire diverse menu until 1 a.m. Also nightly entertainment yearround and a great place to watch all the sports on an ocean of televisions including a giant high-def screen. Also four pool tables on site. Lunch and dinner and entire menu until 1 a.m. Open all year from 11:30 a.m.-2 a.m., seven days a week.

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

■ THE WEDGE BAR 806 S. Atlantic Ave, Ocean City www.thewedgeoc.com $-$$ | Full bar Panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, bay and Assateague Island. Enjoy small plates, sandwiches and grilled burgers. Open every day, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

MIDTOWN

29th to 90th streets ■ 32 PALM 32nd Street in The Hilton, Ocean City 410289-2525, 32palm.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Elevated cuisine, locally sourced ingredients and allocated spirits are prominently featured in our lounge and dining room. Open year-round for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Routinely updated menus with the highest quality local ingredients for fresh seafood any time of the year!

■ THE BONFIRE 71st Street, Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, 410524-7171, thebonfirerestaurant.com Celebrating more than 50 years as the best seafood and prime rib buffet in Ocean City.

It’s all here – the service, the atmosphere and finest, freshest seafood available and quality meats. Save room for the decadent desserts available as well including homemade donuts.

■ COCONUTS BEACH BAR & GRILL 3701 Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 410-2896846, 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 fa-

JUNE 19, 2026

mous Prime Rib. Enjoy beautiful sunsets over the water. Open 11 a.m. daily. Fine dine at 4:30 p.m.

■ HOOKED 8003 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410723-4665, hookedoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar A Common Ground Hospitality concept, a passion driven restaurant group servicing the coastal community. The goal is honor creativity and innovation by design. With passion at the heart of everything, unique dining concepts are paired with honest hospitality and well-made food sourced with fresh local ingredients and seasonal harvests. Craft and full bar available. Open daily 11:30 a.m.

■ LONGBOARD CAFÉ 6701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 443664-5693, longboardcafe.com $$-$$$ | Full bar Casual Dining … Refined. Open for lunch and dinner. A wide range of gourmet burgers, innovative tacos, salads and sandwiches to full dinner entrees featuring fresh local fish prepared in a variety of styles, beef, shellfish and pasta. All our sauces, salsas, dressings, etc. are meticulously house made. We use fresh local sources wherever possible and premium ingredients such as our chuck, brisket and short rib custom blended burgers. Closed Tuesday. Call for reservations.

■ MARLIN MOON RESTAURANT 3301 Atlantic Ave., in the Double Tree Hotel, Ocean City 410-289-1201, marlinmoonocmd.com $$ | Full bar Winner of the Maryland People's choice award, Marlin Moon continues to offer its famous, locally loved dishes and famous happy hour. Enjoy creatively crafted cocktails, fresh selections from the raw bar and luscious desserts. Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m., featuring drink specials. Breakfast, 7:30-11:30 a.m.; Lite Fare, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Dinner, 4-10 p.m.; and Bar open noon to 11 p.m.

■ SEACRETS 49th Street, Ocean City 410-524-4900, www.seacrets.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Open Sunday through Friday at 11 a.m., 10 a.m. on Saturdays, close at 2 a.m. Enjoy a tropical atmosphere and dine under the palms in our outdoor, kid friendly dining area or try a Seacrets Beachin' Cocktails in the Bay with live music every day open to close.

The club is open every night in the summer.

Try our famous jerk chicken with homemade honey mustard sauce, Pushcart Trio, a true Jamaican dish or a hearty wrap, sandwich or delicious burger. We have it all at Seacrets.

UPTOWN

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

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

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

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

Popular for the breakfast but getting rave reviews for lunch and dinner, too.

■ NANTUCKETS Route 1, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-5392607, nantucketsrestaurant.com Serving the beach great food and spirits for over 30 years. David and Janet Twining will wow you with the finest foods and drinks in the area. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by what one of the coast’s finest dining establishments has in store for guests. Everything here is a house specialty.

■ TWINING’S LOBSTER SHANTY Rte. 54, Fenwick Island, Del., 302-4362305, twiningshanty.com Reservations | Kids’ Menu “A funky little place at the edge of town.”

Classic New England fare, lobsters, steaks and burgers. Bird watching and magical sunsets await. Open for lunch and dinner. Reservations are suggested.

WEST OCEAN CITY ■ ASSATEAGUE BAR AND GRILL 9636 Stephen Decatur Highway, West Ocean City 443-664-8158, abarngrill.com $$ | Full bar Full service, family friendly, casual dining to please everyone. Offering breakfast lunch and dinner with breakfast being served all day. Classic American cuisine with a selection of delicious Maryland favorites. Happy hour everyday from 1-6 p.m. with bar specials and tasty bites. Daily specials Monday through Friday. Dine-in and carry-out.

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

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

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

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

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

■ OC DINER 12744 Ocean Gateway, Rt 50 east, Ocean City 410-390-5112 $$ | Kids’ menu Family owned for over 25 years. Serving the best homemade food. Local’s favorite.

Breakfast served all day. Kids’ menu. Dine-in and Carry-out. Open 7 days a week.

JUNE 19, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 51

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Lightning: Beach danger requiring safety awareness

By Kristin Joson Contributing Writer (June 19, 2026) While most people know lightning is dangerous, many don't realize that the beach can be one of the most hazardous places to be during a thunderstorm.

The Ocean City Beach Patrol (OCBP) wants to remind residents and visitors of the very real dangers lightning poses and explain how the Patrol works to keep beachgoers safe when storms threaten our shoreline.

Thanks in part to the popularity of Discovery Channel's Shark Week, many vacationers worry more about shark attacks than lightning strikes. However, the statistics tell a very different story. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), lightning is nearly 50 times more deadly than sharks. While shark-related fatalities in the United States average fewer than one per year, lightning kills an average of 49 people annually and seriously injures hundreds more, often leaving victims with lifelong medical complications.

Despite these sobering numbers, it's See BEACH Page 53

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PAGE 52

OC Today-Dispatch

JUNE 19, 2026

OC AIR SHOW IN REVIEW

BEAUTIFUL WEATHER FOR AIR SHOW Mother Nature provided three wonderful weather days for last weekend’s OC Air Show, which featured the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, the French Air Force’s Patrouille de France, the F35A Lightning II Demo Team, A400M Atlas, Mark Meredith, Rooster Aerobatics and more. Pictured are scenes from the weekend.

PHOTOS BY MIKE DETWILER PHOTOGRAPHY

JUNE 19, 2026

ON GUARD

Beach Patrol offers safety tips Continued from Page 51 easy to think, "It won't happen here," or "It won't happen to me." Unfortunately, lightning strikes are not just something that happens somewhere else. In and around Ocean City, more than a dozen people have been struck by lightning over the past several decades. Tragically, five of those incidents proved fatal.

Understanding the danger and knowing when to seek shelter can save lives.

OCBP follows strict safety protocols any time thunder is heard, lightning is seen, or a Severe Weather Warning is issued.

Not only are all SRTs keeping a watchful eye on changing weather conditions, but our centralized command center is also monitoring conditions around our area and will alert the SRTs when radar detects approaching weather systems that could become dangerous to our beach population, The moment a lifeguard hears thunder; swimmers are immediately cleared from the water. Lifeguards then begin alerting beachgoers about the danger of being near the ocean during a storm.

According to the National Weather Service, if you can hear thunder, you’re close enough to be struck. This potential danger is called a "bolt from the blue" is a highly dangerous cloud-to-ground lightning strike that occurs when a lightning bolt travels horizontally from a distant parent thunderstorm and strikes a clear, sunny area, sometimes 10 to 25 miles away from the storm.

That’s why OCBP urges everyone to begin packing up and seeking shelter indoors at the first rumble. Once lightning is visible, the beach is cleared immediately, and everyone is required to leave when instructed. Leave your belongings behind. Your safety is far more important. You can retrieve them later when the threat has passed.

At this point, guards are instructed to prioritize their own safety as well. Once all beach patrons are directed to safety, they seek shelter off the beach themselves. High winds often accompany lightning storms, turning umbrellas, chairs, and tents into dangerous projectiles, another reason the only safe place during a storm is indoors.

Following lightning activity, guards wait 30 minutes after the last visible strike or rumble of thunder before allowing anyone back on the beach. If lifeguards are not in their stands, the beach is not safe. Please obey the directives of the Beach Patrol to keep you and your loved ones safe and so that our SRTs do not need to leave a place of safety to “remind” you to stay off the beach! When they return to their posts, it is a clear signal that it's safe to resume beach activities.

Bottom line: If you hear thunder or see lightning, stop what you're doing and head indoors immediately. It's the only guaranteed way to stay safe. Always follow Beach Patrol instructions, we’re there to protect you. And remember NOAA’s life-saving slogan: “When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!”

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 53

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 54

JUNE 19, 2026

vanishing

OCEAN CITY

Things I Like...

With Bunk Mann

By Steve Green Being tired on Monday from a fun weekend The WNBA’s rise in popularity Lots of speakers for a public hearing Local bands with originals Leaving my phone at home for church The energy of the Berlin Farmers Market A pool dip after a beach day

The Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company was formed in 1905 with two hand-drawn hose reels and over the years has served with distinction fighting fires and during storms and floods.

Some major events in its history include the Great Fire of 1925 where several blocks of Boardwalk properties were destroyed, the March Storm of 1962 and the Plimhimmon Hotel fire that same year, the arson binge during the winter of 1972-73, and the Saute Café tragedy of 1983. The fire company also responded to assist in riot control when 1500 college-age students marched on City Hall over the Labor Day Weekend in 1960.

Today the Ocean City Fire Department provides fire and EMS protection operating from five stations. The combination career/volunteer department serves both the resort area and rapidly growing West Ocean City on the mainland.

To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanish ingoc.com.

Photo courtesy Sam Villani

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JUNE 19, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 55

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 56

JUNE 19, 2026

SURF REPORT

The Adventures

T

by Steve Green

of Fatherhood

his is a different end of the school year than most.

For years, the rhythm of our family life has been measured by school calendars. September brought fresh starts, new teachers and new routines. June brought report cards, field days, concerts, celebrations and the collective exhale that comes with another year completed.

This year feels different.

A month ago, our oldest son, Beckett, graduated from high school. Even writing those words still seems strange. For 18 years, he has been our little boy, and now he is standing at the edge of adulthood preparing for college and whatever comes next.

The transition is already underway.

He's working hard this summer, putting money aside for the journey ahead. There are college forms to complete, dorm supplies to purchase and plans to make. Every week seems to bring another reminder that mid-August is coming quickly.

As parents, we spend years preparing our children to become independent, but no one really prepares us for what it feels like when that independence begins to arrive.

I find myself caught somewhere between pride and nostalgia, while excited for him to fly away from the next.

I'm proud of the young man Beckett has become. He's worked hard, made good decisions and earned the opportunities in front of him. He has made mistakes and learned from the poor judgment. Watching him prepare for college fills me with excitement because I know he is ready for this next chapter.

Parents often hear the phrase, "The days are long, but the years are short."

It sounds like a cliché until you suddenly realize how true it is.

One day you're helping a child learn to ride a bike. The next you're helping him decide what to pack for college.

The calendar doesn't seem capable of moving that quickly, yet somehow it does.

As difficult as it is to wrap my head around Beckett graduating, another realization has been quietly settling in over the last few weeks.

Carson just finished his sophomore year.

That means he only has two years of high school remaining.

With Beckett, the milestones seemed to

Locallyy F Famous For 48 Years!

arrive in a predictable fashion. We could see the road ahead. There were sports seasons, school events, dances, driver's education, college visits and all the traditional experiences that often accompany the teenage years.

Carson's journey has always looked different.

As many readers know, Carson is nonverbal and autistic. Milestones for him are often measured differently. Progress isn't always found in report cards, test scores or traditional markers of success.

Sometimes success is independence.

Sometimes it's communication. Sometimes it's confidence. Sometimes it's trying something new.

For years, our focus has been on helping Carson gain the skills he'll need to navigate the world as independently as possible. We don’t know what life looks like for him down the road, but every small step forward matters.

That's why the approaching end of his high school years feels particularly significant.

For many parents, graduation signals a launch into adulthood. For families of children with disabilities, it often raises a different set of questions.

What comes next? What opportunities will be available? How can we continue building independence?

These aren't questions we need answered today, but they're questions that become harder to ignore when you realize there are only two years left.

At the same time, Carson continues to surprise us.

Just when I find myself worrying about the future, he finds a way to remind me to focus on the present. He got an A on his US History final without us helping him study.

It’s huge.

Looking ahead, Carson will spend part of his summer working at Jolly Roger's water park through the Maryland Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) program, which involves a partnership with the public schools.

For many teenagers, a summer job is simply a rite of passage. It's a way to earn spending money, gain experience, meet new people and learn responsibility. For Carson, it's all of those things and more.

One of the greatest lessons Carson has taught me as a father is that progress isn't always linear. Sometimes it comes in giant

Brea fast Break Breakf

Caaf Cafe C

Sub ubS

S Sand andwiCh he eS

410-213-1804 4 12736 Ocean Gateway Rt. 50 W We est Ocean City (Located by Comfort Inn Suites Across From O Outback Steak House)

leaps. More often it comes through small victories that accumulate over time. A new skill. A new responsibility. A new experience. A new challenge successfully navigated.

As parents, we can become so focused on the next milestone that we forget to appreciate the one happening right in front of us.

I've certainly been guilty of that.

It's easy to spend time thinking about college move-in day for Beckett or wondering what life will look like for Carson after high school. It's natural to think ahead.

But fatherhood has taught me that the best moments often happen when we stop looking so far down the road.

This summer, Beckett will continue preparing for college. Carson will continue learning and growing through new experiences at work. Pam and I will continue doing what parents everywhere do — staying present and supportive, offering advice when it's wanted and trying not to hold on too tightly.

The reality is that our children are always moving forward.

That's exactly what they're supposed to do.

The challenge for parents is learning to move forward alongside them.

So while this end of the school year feels different, I'm trying to embrace it.

I'm trying to celebrate Beckett's accomplishments without mourning the years that have passed.

I'm trying to appreciate Carson's progress without worrying too much about the calendar.

And I'm trying to remember that fatherhood isn't really about preparing children for one big moment. It's about helping them navigate thousands of moments along the way.

This summer will bring more transitions, more growth and undoubtedly a few more reminders that time moves far too quickly.

But it will also bring opportunities to celebrate where our boys are right now.

And for this father, that's more than enough reason to be grateful.

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

OC Surf Club set with big weekend of local events Memorial paddle out for Kovacs planned on Sunday

By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer (June 19, 2026) It’s that time of year again, boys and girls.

Coming up is the Ocean City Surf Club’s annual Surf Fest Weekend. It kicks off on Friday evening, June 19 at Barn 34 restaurant, 34th Street and Coastal Hwy., in Ocean City. Hosted by the Lawson family, the “party” will feature scholarship awards, legends inductions, finger food and the camaraderie of the surf community. Everyone is invited.

On Saturday, June 20, the “Anything Goes” team surf contest should get underway around 8 a.m. at the 37th Street beach. The event is hosted

by Adam Showell and the Castle in the Sand Motel. This is a novel fun event featuring five-person teams with awards and bragging rights on the line.

Sunday’s events will see a surfer’s swap meet at Fager’s Island restaurant, 60th Street and the bay from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. At 6 p.m., a memorial paddle out and celebration of life will be held at the 37th Street beach for Ocean City Beach Patrol (OCBP) Lieutenant Ward Kovacs who recently passed away.

Kovacs was a beloved member of the OCBP for over 40 years and the Director of Training among other duties. He was Ocean City’s first fulltime year-round beach patrol employee. May he rest in peace.

For more information consult OCMD Surf Club on your phone or computer.

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

50

Years On!

JUNE 19, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 57

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

FOUNDATION MAKES DONATIONS The Worcester County Education Foundation recently celebrated several meaningful investments, including three teacher grant awards and a generous $10,000 community donation from Dockside Pocomoke. WCEF Co-Chairs Kristie Fogle and Bobby Hammond presented teacher grants to Jessica Gonzalez Paradis of Stephen Decatur High School, above left, $1,734; top left, Kristin Parker of Berlin Intermediate School, $976; and Chef Phil Cropper of Worcester Tech Culinary Arts, above right, $4,956.87. Together, these grants represent $7,666.87 in direct support for educators and students. Top right, the foundation received a $10,000 donation from Dockside Pocomoke, owned by Jamie and Caitlin Evans.

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 58

JUNE 19, 2026

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Secrets to whipped cheese purses

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer (June 19, 2026) Father’s Day is finally here. Grills will be rocking, barbeque will be smoking, and sides will be plenty.

In planning a celebratory occasion, every dish is important for a balanced menu. Sweetness, saltiness, consistency, color, texture, and overall variance play a key role for unity and symmetry.

Whipped feta and cream cheese purses embellished with drizzles of honey and sprinkles of toasted sesame seeds are simple, delicious, and enhances the star of the festivities.

The quintessential ingredient of this dish is the phyllo. For those who are not familiar with phyllo, let us take a brief moment to review the basics of phyllo.

Thaw the dough in the refrigerator, keep it under a damp towel, layer every sheet with butter to ensure crispness, and work quickly since the paper-thin sheets dry out quickly.

Specifics ensure success. So, the next question at hand is what type of butter to use. The choices range from salted, unsalted, and plant-based butter. First and foremost, use unsalted butter. Remember, every layer gets buttered, so by

using unsalted butter, the other ingredients are not overpowered with sodium.

If you are a phyllo dough perfectionist, use clarified butter.

The whipped feta consists of feta, cream cheese, Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs, and the juice of a lemon. This combination yields a delightful and unique filling that will tickle your taste buds.

The whipped feta purses can be served as an appetizer on its own. It can also be served as an adornment with a salad, or even a dessert.

In closing, entertaining encompasses the entire merriment. Whipped feta purses drizzled with honey and sprinkles of sesame seeds will be a hit with everyone and compliment the hearty dishes typically associated with Father’s Day. Father’s Day comes once a year. To all of the dads present and passed, we hope you know how much you are loved.

1 (8-ounce) crumbles of feta cheese, room temperature 1 (6-ounce) block of cream cheese 1 (5-ounce Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs Cheese), room temperature juice of 1 lemon 1. In a medium bowl, using a handheld blender, combine ingredients until smooth. Set aside. phyllo sheets, thawed 2 sticks unsalted butter 1. In a small pan, heat butter over low

heat, and using a spoon, remove the solids from the butter.

2. Using a pastry brush, brush each desired shape of phyllo.

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Spread 2 layers of phyllo and place a large spoonful or log shaped amount of cheese in the center. Fold the top layer over the cheese mixture and carefully fold the bottom layer over the first layer of dough.

3. Tuck in the sides.

4. Bake until golden brown approximately 10 to 15 minutes. If you want a

crispier , place under broiler or brown with a kitchen torch lighter.

5. Place feta purse on serving plate and drizzle with honey and toasted sesame seeds.

Secret Ingredient – Memory To observe attentively is to remember distinctively.

— Edgar Allen Poe

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OC Today-Dispatch

JUNE 19, 2026

HOROSCOPE ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Management opportunities are coming your way, Aries. It is time to step up and take the lead. Your confidence has long been a strong character trait, so push forward.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, patience will pay off big time when a long-awaited piece of news finally arrives. The weekend is a perfect time for walking in nature or tending to the garden.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Your curiosity is leading you down a fascinating path right now, Gemini. This could spark a new interest.

Stay flexible, as a last-minute change of plans might be in the cards.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, emotional clarity might help you address a minor concern with grace and ease. You often project a gentle strength that helps to draw people closer to you.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 It’s time for your inner child to come out to play, Leo. Say yes to a game night or a creative pursuit.

Joy will be the primary focus this week, leading you to have more fun.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, a breakthrough in your wellness routine may be on the horizon, leaving you feeling energized and refreshed. People might notice the glow and ask for your secret.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, artistic inspiration might just be everywhere you look this week.

Whether gazing at the clouds or the buildings around you, you might be inspired to create something.

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Bank announces hire Farmers Bank of Willards has announced that Jeanne Robertson has joined the bank as Senior Vice President and Chief Credit Officer, bringing 38 years of experience in credit, lending, risk management, and regulatory compliance.

A lifelong Eastern Shore resident, Robertson began her banking career with Bank of America and its predecessor institutions as a credit analyst in middle J. Robertson market lending. Most recently, she spent 23 years with The Bank of Delmarva and LINKBANK, where she held leadership positions including Chief Credit Officer, Chief Risk and Compliance Officer, Credit Department Manager, and Loan Review Manager. Her responsibilities included oversight of credit, enterprise risk management, loan operations, special assets, CRA, and regulatory compliance.

“Jeanne brings extensive experience in credit and risk management, along with a deep understanding of community banking,” said Matthew Davis, President of Farmers Bank of Willards. “Her leadership will help support our continued growth while maintaining the strong credit culture that has been a cornerstone of our success.”

In her new role, Robertson will oversee credit administration and help guide the

bank’s risk management strategies while supporting its commitment to relationship-based banking.

“I’m excited to join Farmers Bank of Willards and build on its tradition of serving local communities,” Robertson said.

“Community banks play a vital role in supporting small businesses and families, and I look forward to strengthening relationships, mentoring future leaders, and continuing to serve the Eastern Shore.”

Practitioners appointed TidalHealth has welcomed four new practitioners to the health system.

Lorren Donmoyer, MD provides expert care at TidalHealth Primary Care in Ocean View, Delaware. Donmoyer earned his medical degree from Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

He completed his residency at Eastern Virginia Medical School in Norfolk, Virginia. Dr. Donmoyer is a board-certified physician who has cared for patients locally on the Eastern Shore for 20 years.

Sentara Ernst, FNP provides care at TidalHealth Urogynecology in Ocean Pines and Salisbury. Ernst received a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Capella University before earning her Master of Science in nursing and family nurse practitioner certification from Walden University. Ernst is a board-certified nurse practitioner, and her clinical interests include women’s health across the lifespan, reproductive care, and de-

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, it’s time to share your knowledge with others, which can bring you a sense of fulfillment that you might not have seen coming.

livering evidence-based, patient-centered care to diverse populations.

Ivonne Herrera, MD provides expert care at TidalHealth Rheumatology in Salisbury. She is dedicated to helping patients manage complex rheumatic conditions with personalized treatment plans focused on improving comfort, mobility, and quality of life. Herrera earned her medical degree from the University of Zulia in Maracaibo, Venezuela.

She completed her residency in internal medicine at Mount Sinai Medical Center, followed by a rheumatology fellowship at the University of Miami, where she served as the chief fellow in the Department of Rheumatology. She is board certified in rheumatology and brings extensive expertise in diagnosing and treating a wide range of autoimmune and musculoskeletal conditions.

Stacey Tipton, FNP-BC provides care at TidalHealth Rheumatology in Salisbury. After more than 20 years of dedicated nursing experience, Tipton earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Wilmington University. She then completed her post master’s family nurse practitioner certificate from Herzing University. Tipton is a certified family nurse practitioner with additional certification in basic life support (BLS) and advanced cardiovascular life support (ACLS) from the American Heart Association. Tipton was named TidalHealth Peninsula Regional’s Employee of the Year in 2017 for her dedication and clinical excellence.

OFFERED WELL BELOW REPLACEMENT COST - SAVE $200K!

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Transformation is in the air, Scorpio. You might be shedding an old habit for a better one. You may be stepping into a more powerful version of yourself soon enough.

PAGE 59

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CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Career goals are moving forward at a steady, satisfying pace, Capricorn.

Keep your eyes on the future and trust the process. You’re doing amazing work.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Social activism or community work may give you a sense of purpose that is much-needed right now, Aquarius. Your ability to think creatively will help immensely.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Your kindness this week will create a ripple of positivity that flows right back to you, Pisces. Reach out to a friend in need when you have a moment.

David Dypsky R E A LTO R ®

(410) 726-5020 david@daviddypsky.com www.daviddypsky.com

9921 Stephen Decatur Highway, West Ocean City, Maryland 21842 • 410-213-7040

PAGE 60

OC Today-Dispatch

JUNE 19, 2026

TECH SCHOOL GETS DONATION At the meeting held on June 11, the Ocean Pines Garden Club (OPGC) hosted Sarah Ruggiero and four of her students from Worcester County Technical School (WCTS).

Since last fall, these students have been immersed in an innovative beekeeping program, and they shared their latest insights and success stories with the club. To support the next generation of agricultural leaders, OPGC Co-President Ann Shockley presented the group with a $500 donation to further their beekeeping initiatives. The club presented a $500 check to Worcester County Technical School for their continued work with beekeeping. Pictured, from left, are Jayden Garton, Brooke Warren, OPGC Co-President Ann Shockley, Ruggiero, Jayla Mitchell, and Andy Maynard.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Smith Island Cruises

Take the smoothest ride to Smith Island aboard the “Chelsea Lane Tyler” Leaves Somers Cove Marina in Crisfield, MD

12:30 FRee PaRKInG CRUISE CRAB LUNCH PACKAGE

www.smithislandcruises.com

ISLAND AMENITIES

• Bayside Inn Restaurant

Known for its famous Crab Cakes and Smith Island Cake

• Golf Cart Rentals • Bicycle Rentals • Museum • Gift Shops

Directions:

Rt. 413 to Crisfield Turn left after Fire Dept.

Stop at Capt. Tyler’s Motel for cruise tickets.

Reservations Required!

410-425-2771

Purchase your tickets online at www.smithislandcruises.com Like us on Facebook!

JUNE 19, 2026

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OC Today-Dispatch

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

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

Fri., June 19 FIRST RESPONDERS DAY AT TRIMPER RIDES

Trimper Rides of Ocean City, 700 S. Atlantic Ave., 3-5 p.m. Meet local first responders and explore emergency vehicles. Offering four-hour wristbands for $25 for all first responders throughout the day. Show work ID at Guest Services. 410-289-8617

P.E.P. CLUB

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 5-7 p.m. Come design and create yourself a baseball hat for summer. A variety of iron-on patches available. Materials, instruction and light refreshments provided. 410-6417052, oceanpines.org

OC MAHJONG CLUB

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

CAMP REHOBOTH CHORUS - I HEAR AMERICA SINGING

Epworth United Methodist Church, 19285 Holland Glade Road, Rehoboth Beach, 7-5 p.m., June 19-21. Tickets $30. CAMP Rehoboth Chorus celebrates America’s 250th anniversary! 302-2275620

An afterparty, beginning at 2:30 p.m., will feature music, food, beverages, and an award ceremony at 6 p.m. All participants are welcome. The Touch-A-Truck event is held before the parade from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

vided. Jessica Bauer, development@artleagueofoceancity.org, 410-524-9433

SEWING SEEDS OF LOVE CLAY-A-PALOOZA - POTTERY WORKSHOP WITH CORI BEARDSLEY

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 12-4 p.m. Hands-on instruction with a featured ceramic artist. Cost is $205 for ALOC members and $245 for non-members. Register: https://canvas.artleagueofoceancity.org/classes/3061.

MERMAID SWIM

Parking Lot beside The Sterling Tavern, 119 N. Main St., Berlin, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Sponsored by the Maryland State Firefighters Association.

Ocean Pines Sports Core Pool, 11144 Cathell Road, 2-4 p.m. Must be at least 10 years or older, be an experienced swimmer and able to swim in deep area.

Cost is $25 for swim members, $30 for residents and $35 for non-residents.

Registration: 410-641-5255.

KIDS FISHING DERBY

OC FILM FEST - JUNE FILM NIGHT

TOUCH-A-TRUCK

Oceanic Fishing Pier, 710 S. Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Bring your pole and bait. Trophies and prizes awarded. For ages 6-16 years.

Sponsored by Atlantic Coast Sportfishing Association. Jerry Leuters, 240-4278929

TEACH A KID TO FISH DAY

South Gate Pond, Ocean Pines, 9-10:30 a.m. For kids 4-16 years old. Free event.

OP Anglers Club, DNR and other groups will offer fishing tips, general fishing info and safety. Bring rods, insect repellent and sunscreen. Bait and water provided. 410-208-1575

IN JOY HOMEMADE GOODS MARKET

Berlin First Baptist Church, 613 Williams St., 9-11 a.m. Benefiting FFIND (Finding Friends & Individuals w/Needs & Disabilities). Supporting all individuals of all abilities to build an inclusive community.

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 7-8 p.m. A specially curated selection of local documentaries. Doors open at 7 p.m. screening at 7:15 p.m. Following the film, there will be a Q&A with attending filmmakers. Advanced registration preferred.

OCEAN PINES FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods. Also featuring family-friendly activities, music and unique shopping experiences.

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

Sun., June 21 OC CRUZERS CAR SHOW

Sat., June 20 2026 OC SURF FEST

Castle in the Sand Hotel, 3701 Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 8 a.m. Surfing, demonstrations, games, David Fey Memorial Expression Surf Session, OCSC Awards Ceremony and OC Surf Fest After Party.

Registration and schedule of events: https://ocsurfclub.org. 443-366-5885

ANNUAL MARYLAND STATE FIREFIGHTERS ASSOCIATION PARADE

Historic Downtown Berlin, 2 p.m. Participants will proceed north on Main Street near Berlin Furniture and end at the Taylor House Museum. Open to all Maryland Firefighters. The Joseph A. Ferko String Band is set to parade with the state’s first responders. Parking will be available at Berlin Intermediate School with shuttle services. All Maryland fire departments are welcomed regardless of if they signed up beforehand.

LOWER SHORE CASA’S JOUSTING FOR JUSTICE JAM!

Sturgis Park Garden, 200 River St., Snow Hill, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Largest canoe jousting event on the shore! Compete or watch as teams of 3 go head to head on the river to see who gets knocked off of their platform! There will be food, games, music. Win the trophy! 410-7490632

FRIED & BAKED CHICKEN/BBQ RIBS TO GO.

Calvary United Methodist Church, 8607 Ironshire Station Road, Berlin, 10:30 a.m. Chicken platters cost $15 and BBQ ribs platters, $16. Platters come with two side and a roll. Cake, cornbread, soda, water, etc. for sale.

Somerset Plaza, Somerset Street, Ocean City, 3-6 p.m. Join the OC Cruzers Car Club for a free, family friendly car show.

Each show will feature classic cars, custom rides and hot rods. Also, live music or a DJ. https://www.ocdc.org

2026 OC SURF FEST - WARD KOVACS MEMORIAL PADDLE-OUT

Castle in the Sand Hotel, 3701 Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 6 p.m. Open to all. https://ocsurfclub.org, 443-366-5885

SUNDAES IN THE PARK WITH FIREWORKS Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 7-9 p.m. Featuring “The Sixties Live: 60’s Music.” Activities and entertainment for kids, ice cream (available for purchase) and fireworks. https://www.ococean.com/events/

FREE KIDS CRAFT SATURDAYS

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Featuring “Welcome Summer Sun Hanger.” Guided crafts led by friendly instructors. All supplies pro-

petting farm (9-11 a.m.), live music. www.TheBerlinFarmersMarket.com

BERLIN FARMERS MARKET

Sundays (May-October) - Pitts, Commerce and Main streets, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine. Producers only market,

Sundays - Buckingham Presbyterian Church, 20 S. Main St., Berlin, 10-11 a.m. Youth of all ages learn how to sew while making a difference. 410-6410234

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

Mon., June 22 STORY TIME: BEACH DAY

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

TOPS OF BERLIN - GROUP #169

TidalHealth Atlantic, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 5-6:30 p.m. Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) is an educational group that promotes weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. https://www.tops.org/home

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, 6:008:00 p.m. All ladies who love to sing invited. If you plan to visit, please Contact: Director: Ludwig692@outlook.com, 410-641-6876 or Membership Coordinator: ocelissa@yahoo.com, 410-641-8050.

OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS

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

Tues., June 23 IAFF LOCAL 4269 OCEAN CITY CHAPTER ANNUAL FUNDRAISER

Hooters of the Boardwalk, 501 Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 12-3 p.m. Silent auction, games, fun for the family and shirts for sale. Meet local firefighters and Fire Dog Max. https://www.ocmdfire.com

MINI MAKERS ART MORNING

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 10:30 a.m. Toddlers, preschoolers and big kids can explore, create and imagine with a variety of art supplies. Dress for a mess. For ages 2-5 years. 410-957-0878, worces-

Continued on Page 62

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OC Today-Dispatch

JUNE 19, 2026

CALENDAR terlibrary.org

Wed., June 24

OC KNITTING GROUP

MOVIES ON THE BEACH

Continued from Page 61

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

STORY TIME

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m.

Story time featuring seasonal themes designed to support early literacy skills with stories, songs and finger plays. For ages 0-5 years. 410-641-0650, https://worcesterlibrary.org

SUMMER READING KICKOFF PARTY FEATURING ADVENTURES IN RHYTHM

Carousel Oceanfront Hotel & Condos, 11700 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 8:30 p.m. Featured movie is “Elio.” Free movies on the beach every Wednesday, June 3-Aug. 12. Bring blankets, chairs and snacks. Movie lineup: https://www.ococean.com/things-todo/free-family-fun/.

ZUMBA PLUS!!

KIDS PAINT NIGHT

OCEAN PINES CONCERTS IN THE PARK

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 5:30-6:30 p.m. All materials and instruction provided. For ages 8 years and older. Cost is $22 per painter. Pre-registration required: 410641-7052.

Sturgis Park Garden, 200 River St., Snow Hill, 10:30 a.m. Enjoy hands-on activities and “unearth stories” through music and history during an interactive percussion concert with Steve Cyphers (Mr. Steve). For families. 410-632-5622

FAMILY FUN NIGHTS

MASTER GARDENERS PLANT CLINIC

SUMMER READING KICKOFF PARTY FEATURING ADVENTURES IN RHYTHM

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1-4 p.m.

Bring any questions you have and feel free to show your plants as well. 410208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

BEACH HEROES-OC

Tuesdays - Volunteer beach clean-up group meets from 9-10 a.m., year-round.

Trash bags, grabbers 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

ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE

Tuesdays - Lewes Senior Center, 32083 Janice Rd. Lewes, DE, 7-9 p.m. Experienced dancers and others interested in watching or learning more are welcome.

No partner required. Info: TangobytheBeach.com.

ZUMBA TONING TUESDAYS

Tuesdays - Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 5:15 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.

at 5 p.m., bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. Food available before bingo. Open to the public. 443-605-5028

Ocean Pines Yacht Club Pool, 1 Mumfords Landing Road, 6-8 p.m. DJ, games and prizes. Cost is $5 per swimmer at the gate. Food available for purchase.

410-641-7052, oceanpines.org

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Enjoy hands-on activities and “unearth stories” through music and history during an interactive percussion concert with Steve Cyphers (Mr. Steve). For families. 410-957-0878, worcesterlibrary.org

THE EASTERN SHORE IN THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Melissa Reid, from the Taylor House Museum, talks about the colonial settlement of Trappe located south east of Berlin. 410641-0650, worcesterlibrary.org

SUMMER READING KICKOFF PARTY FEATURING ADVENTURES IN RHYTHM

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

Enjoy hands-on activities and “unearth stories” through music and history during an interactive percussion concert with Steve Cyphers (Mr. Steve). For families. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP

TidalHealth Atlantic, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3-4:30 p.m. The group meets the fourth Wednesday of each month. 410-6296848, lora.pangratz@tidalhealth.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.

Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 4:30 p.m.

Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com

Thurs., June 25 White Horse Park Pavilion, Ocean Pines, 7-9 p.m. Free community event featuring “Nick Vox.” Food for sale. BYOB welcome. 410-641-7052

NARFE CHAPTER MEETING

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 10 a.m. Meeting is open to federal employees active/retired, and surviving spouses. Karleen Hagan, 703729-2103

PLAY TIME

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Join in for a variety of activities and toys. Play and socialize with other families. For ages 0-5 years. 410-632-5622

Wednesdays - Ocean City Elks Lodge 2645, 13708 Sinepuxent Ave. Door open

ONGOING EVENTS POLISH AMERICAN CLUB OF DELMARVA

Meets the second Wednesday of each month (except July and August) at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 9901 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 2-4 p.m. A social organization of men and women of Polish or Slavic descent.

OCEAN CITY-BERLIN ROTARY CLUB

Meets the first and third Wednesday of each month at Ocean Pines library, 11107 Cathell Road, 6 p.m. ocberlinrotary@gmail.com

MARYLAND FIREFIGHTER 50/50 FUNDRAISER

Drawings are held every Thursday at 8 p.m. Ticket sales open Thursdays at 8:05 p.m. and close the following Thursday at 7:59 p.m. One winner takes home 50% of the total jackpot and the remainder supports the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department. Tickets: https://md.5050raffle.org/give/mdfire/50-50raffles/md5050/charities/ocean-pines

STORY TIME: CIRCLE

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

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

SUMMER READING KICKOFF PARTY FEATURING ADVENTURES IN RHYTHM

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m.

Enjoy hands-on activities and “unearth stories” through music and history during an interactive percussion concert with Steve Cyphers (Mr. Steve). For families. 410-641-0650

MD 250 EVENT - COFFEE & CRAFTS: RED, WHITE, AND WATERCOLORS!

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Join in every month for a new craft.

Materials provided. Limit 30. 410-5241818, worcesterlibrary.org

SUMMER READING KICKOFF PARTY FEATURING ADVENTURES IN RHYTHM

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 2 p.m. Enjoy hands-on activities and “unearth stories” through music and history during an interactive percussion concert with Steve Cyphers (Mr. Steve). For families.

410-957-0878. worcesterlibrary.org

FIT & FABULOUS

Thursdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 4:30 p.m.

Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com

DRY PANTRY CASH BINGO

sources such as paper products, laundry products, baby items, and personal care items. Limits apply. 410-641-0270

Thursdays - St. Paul United Methodist Church, 405 Flower Street, Berlin, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. For those in need of re-

DINOSAUR DIORAMA CONTEST

Throughout June, pick up a kit from any Worcester County library branch (while supplies last), or make one at home using your own materials. All dioramas must be submitted by the end of day June 22 for display and voting. Dioramas should be no larger than a shoe box.

Age divisions include 6-11 years and 1218 years. 410-632-5622

LAMBEOSAURUS LOOSE IN THE LIBRARY

Pocomoke library, 401 5th Street, Unit 100, Pocomoke City (temporary location), throughout June. Can you find the lambeosaurus loose in the library and answer the question he has for you? Answer correctly and be entered into the prize drawing. Different hiding places and questions each week. For families.

410-957-0878

TAKE AND MAKE: PERLER BEADS

Ocean City library, 10003 Coastal Highway, throughout June. Stop by the library to grab a special monthly take-home craft while supplies last. For families. 410-524-1818

Crossword answers from page 58

JUNE 19, 2026

63

OC Today-Dispatch

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

by Monday, 5 p.m.

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

MARKETPLACE HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

RENTALS

RENTALS

REAL ESTATE

AUTOMOTIVE PARTS ASSOCIATE Busy Auto & Marine Parts Store in Ocean Pines is now hiring. We have large retail section for Automotive and Marine. Must have valid driver’s license. Experience is a plus, but will train the right person.

Great Pay & Benefits.

Call: 302-344-9769

Looking For A Committed, Knowledgeable Leader to join our Facilities team at our Bay Club Resort in Ocean City, Maryland!

Work Type: Full-time, yearround. Salaried.

Work Schedule: 40 hours a week, 8-hour shifts.

This position requires weekend availability. Must be available for rotating on-call schedules. Preferred Certifications: OSHA (10 & 30), CPO, EPA Universal, HVAC. Benefits Package: Health, Vision, Dental, 4% 401K matching, PTO, Company Holidays, Short-Term/LongTerm Disability, and MORE! Position Summary: Installs, maintains, performs preventative maintenance on, and recommends replacement of tools, appliances, and equipment. Calibrate all controls, gauges, meters, etc. Identify, locate, and operate all shut-off valves. Orders, marks, and stocks parts and supplies as needed. Maintains inventory and purchase orders log. Inspects tools, equipment, or machines.

Enters and locates workrelated information using computers. Operates power lift. Reports accidents, injuries, and unsafe work conditions utilizing incident reporting document to general manager & HR; and complete safety training and certifications. Preferred Certifications are OSHA (10 & 30), CPO, EPA Universal, and HVAC. PLEASE APPLY ONLINE: https://lemonjuice. bamboohr.com/careers/708

POSEIDON PLUMBING & HOME SERVICES IS HIRING! Join a growing team that values hard work and excellent customer service. We are currently seeking Experienced Plumbing Professionals to help serve our community.

Competitive hourly pay offered based on experience.

Now offering a $2,500 SIGNING BONUS! Call 410-251-1096 today to schedule an interview!

Seeking Year-Round Rentals!

Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555.

Beach House Rental 3-bed, 3-bath on 26th Street. https://bit.ly/3RR214G

YR OCEAN PINES Nottingham Lane Available Immediately!

3BR, 2BA, Central HVAC. All Appliances Incl. No Pets. $2,200 per month + $2,200 sec. dep.

410-404-8851

Extended Spring & Summer Stays Avail.

FOR SALE West OC Salt Life Community.

Brand new upscale resort style living.

2BR, 1BA Model Mobile Home. Fully furnished. New Pool & Community BBQ Area. Close to beaches, restaurants, nightlife and fishing. Will co-op w/realtor. $219,900.

Call 410-807-2515 for more info.

Senior Looking For Help with basic life assistance.

Light housekeeping/errands.

Must be avail. wknds., 3-4 days per wk., 9:30am5:30pm. Dependable car for errands and Dr. visits. Work or personal references req.

410-208-6513, please all after 6pm.

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

NOW HIRING FULL TIME • DRIVER • COOK

Only interested in year round!!

Call 410-726-7061 Or Apply Within at 56th Street

NOW HIRING!!

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

Apply online at: www.delmarvadd.com

Join the Sea Colony East Maintenance Team!

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

Great Benefit plan/paid time off!

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

HIRING POOL DECK ATTENDANT 9400 Condominium Building.

Full Time, Seasonal, May to September, Hours 10-6. $16 Per Hour. Duties: Keep Pool Area Clean - Check for Wristbands - Sell Ice Cream, Other Duties as Needed.

Call 410-524-9400.

• ASSISTANT MANAGER Full-Time, Year-Round • COOK YR, Full or PT Time • BARTENDER PT, Seasonal Must be available for day, night or weekend shifts.

If interested apply in person.

Open daily, 11:00 a.m.

American Legion Post #166, 2308 Philadelphia Avenue For information call 410-289-3166 JOLLY ROGER Small Engine Mechanic & Ride Maintenance.

(Must have mechanical knowledge) Technical Support & Installation (Entry level with knowledge of network systems) SEASONAL HELP: Cashiers, Waterpark Attendants, Lifeguards, Ride Operators Wage based on experience.

Benefits available.

410-289-4902

YEARLY RENTALS WEST OCEAN CITY PETS WELCOME 2 Bedroom / 1 Bath Laundry on premises.

877-289-1616 www.bbapartmentsoc.com

ROOMMATES ROOMMATES

COMMERCIAL COMMERCIAL

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PAGE 64

OC Today-Dispatch

JUNE 19, 2026

COMMERCIAL

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OC Today-Dispatch

JUNE 19, 2026

PAGE 65

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OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 66

JUNE 19, 2026

DIRECTORY LANDSCAPING

LANDSCAPING

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JUNE 19, 2026

COMMISSIONER’S SALE – NOTICE OF DEFAULT AND FORECLOSURE SALE 149 Old Wharf Road, Ocean City, Maryland 21842

NOTICE OF DEFAULT AND FORECLOSURE SALE, made this Twenty Sixth day of May, 2026, by Richard A. Lash, Foreclosure Commissioner: WHEREAS, on January 6, 2010, a certain Deed of Trust was executed

by Gioconda A. Larsen, who died August 22, 2023, as trustor in favor of MetLife Home Loans, a Division of MetLife Bank N.A. as beneficiary and Meridian Settlement Concepts, Inc. as trustee, and was recorded on January 12, 2010, in Libre/Book 5414, Folio/Page 196 in the office of the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland; and WHEREAS, the Deed of Trust was insured by the United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (the “Secretary” or “HUD”) pursuant to the National Housing Act for the purpose of providing single family housing; and WHEREAS, the beneficial interest in the Deed of Trust is now owned by the Secretary, pursuant to an assignment dated August 22, 2018, and recorded on August 22, 2018, in Deed Book 7271, Page 289, in the office of the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland; and WHEREAS, a default has been made in the covenants and conditions of the Deed of Trust due to violation of 9(a)(i): A borrower dies and the property is not the principal residence of at least one surviving borrower; and WHEREAS, the entire amount delinquent as of May 7, 2026 is $679,986.52; and WHEREAS, by virtue of this default, the Secretary has declared the entire amount of the indebtedness secured by the Deed of Trust to be immediately due and payable; NOW THEREFORE, pursuant to powers vested in me by the Single Family Mortgage Foreclosure Act of 1994, 12 U.S.C. 3751 et seq., by 24 CFR part 27, subpart B, and by the Secretary’s designation of Buonassissi, Henning & Lash, P.C. as Foreclosure Commissioner, notice is hereby given that on June 23, 2026 at 4:00 PM local time, all real and personal property at or used in connection with the following described premises (“Property”) will be sold at public auction to the highest bidder: Commonly known as: All that parcel of land lying and being situate in the Tenth Election District of Worcester County, Maryland, which is more particularly designated and distinguished as Lot No. 25, in Section JJ, as shown on a plat of Caine Keys II which is recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland in Plat Book FWH No. 8, Folio 4.

AND BEING the same lot of ground which by deed dated March 11, 1994, and recorded March 18, 1994, among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland in Liber 2037, folio 566

OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices was granted and conveyed by Herman E. Perdue and John J. Evans unto Gioconda A. Larsen.

WHEREAS the said Gioconda A. Larsen departed this life on or about August 22, 2023.

The sale will be held at the front of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland.

The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development will bid $685,428.35.

There will be no proration of taxes, rents or other income or liabilities, except that the purchaser will pay, at or before closing, his prorata share of any real estate taxes that have been paid by the Secretary to the date of the foreclosure sale.

When making their bids, all bidders except the Secretary must submit a deposit 10% of the successful bid in the form of a certified check or cashier’s check made out to the United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. A deposit need not accompany each oral bid. If the successful bid is oral, a deposit of 10% of the successful bid must be presented before the bidding is closed. The deposit is nonrefundable.

The remainder of the purchase price must be delivered within 30 days of the sale or at such other time as the Secretary may determine for good cause shown, time being of the essence. This amount, like the bid deposits, must be delivered in the form of a certified or cashier’s check.

If the Secretary is the highest bidder, he need not pay the bid amount in cash. The successful bidder will pay all conveying fees, all real estate and other taxes that are due on or after the delivery date of the remainder of the payment and all other costs associated with the transfer of title. At the conclusion of the sale, the deposits of the unsuccessful bidders will be returned to them.

The Secretary may grant an extension of time within which to deliver the remainder of the payment.

All extensions will be for 15-day increments for a fee of $500.00, paid in advance. The extension fee shall be in the form of a certified or cashier’s check made payable to the Secretary of HUD. If the high bidder closes the sale prior to the expiration of any extension period, the unused portion of the extension fee shall be applied toward the amount due.

If the high bidder is unable to close the sale within the required period, or within any extensions of time granted by the Secretary, the high bidder may be required to forfeit the cash deposit or, at the election of the foreclosure commissioner after consultation with the HUD representative, will be liable to HUD for any costs incurred as a result of such failure. The Commissioner may, at the direction of the HUD representative, offer the property to the second highest bidder for an amount equal to the highest price offered by that bidder.

There is no right of redemption, or right of possession based upon a right of redemption, in the mortgagor or others subsequent to a foreclosure completed pursuant to the Act. Therefore, the Foreclosure Commissioner will issue a Deed to the

purchaser(s) upon receipt of the entire purchase price in accordance with the terms of the sale as provided herein. HUD does not guarantee that the property will be vacant.

The scheduled foreclosure sale shall be cancelled or adjourned if it is established, by documented written application of the mortgagor to the Foreclosure Commissioner not less than 3 days before the date of sale, or otherwise, that the default or defaults upon which the foreclosure is based did not exist at the time of service of this notice of default and foreclosure sale, or all amounts due under the mortgage agreement are tendered to the Foreclosure Commissioner, in the form of a certified or cashier’s check payable to the Secretary of HUD, before public auction of the property is completed.

The amount that must be paid if the mortgage is to be reinstated prior to the scheduled sale is $679,986.52 as of May 7, 2026, plus all other amounts that would be due under the mortgage agreement if payments under the mortgage had not been accelerated, advertising costs and postage expenses incurred in giving notice, mileage by the most reasonable road distance for posting notices and for the Foreclosure Commissioner’s attendance at the sale, reasonable and customary costs incurred for title and lien record searches, the necessary out-of-pocket costs incurred by the Foreclosure Commissioner for recording documents, a commission for the Foreclosure Commissioner, and all other costs incurred in connection with the foreclosure prior to reinstatement.

Tender of payment by certified or cashier’s check or application for cancellation of the foreclosure sale shall be submitted to the address of the Foreclosure Commissioner provided below.

Date: May 26, 2026 BUONASSISSI, HENNING & LASH, P.C. FORECLOSURE COMMISSIONER By: Richard A. Lash, Esq. 12355 Sunrise Valley Drive, Suite 650 Reston, VA 20191 TEL: 703-796-1341 Ext.144 FAX: (888) 252-7739

PAGE 67 SAPPINGTON who died on FEBRUARY 01, 2026 with a will.

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

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 29th day of NOVEMBER, 2026.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 29th day of NOVEMBER, 2026.

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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-6/4/3t _________________________________

Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland

PROPOSAL SOLICITATION

B14-26 – Eagles Landing Plant Mitigation

OCD-6/4/3t _________________________________ SEAN J COLGAN ESQ. COATES, COATES & COATES 6200 COASTAL HWY STE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-6698

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of MICHAEL CRAIG SAPPINGTON Estate No. 21101 Notice is given that SANDRA SAPPINGTON MICHAELS whose address is 3712 HILLTOP DR JOPPA, MD 21085-2819 was on MAY 29, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MICHAEL CRAIG

The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking BID’s from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Eagles Landing Plant Mitigation and for said work to conform with the BID Documents.

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

PAGE 68 for the content of any BID Document received through any third-party service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed BID Documents.

A Pre-BID Meeting will be held on TUESDAY, MAY 19TH, 2026 AT 8:00AM EST, AT THE EAGLES LANDING GOLF COURSE, PRO SHOP LOBBY, 12367 EAGLES NEST ROAD, BERLIN, MARYLAND 21811. The Last Day for Questions will be on FRIDAY, MAY 29TH, 2026 AT 4:00PM EST. Addendum will be posted by close of business on TUESDAY, JUNE 2ND, 2026.

Sealed BID Documents are due no later than MONDAY, JUNE 29TH, 2026, BY 10:00AM EST. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION, ON TUESDAY, JUNE 30TH, 2026, AT 1:00PM EST. BID’s are to be submitted to the Mayor and City Council, Attention: City Clerk; Room 230, 301 North Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (Eagles Landing Plant Mitigation) must be noted on the outside of the package.

Late BID Documents will not be accepted.

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

Matt Perry Procurement Manager Town of Ocean City, Maryland OCD-5/14/7t _________________________________ The Tax Lien Season 2025 LP c/o Eskin Law, LLC 1700 Reisterstown Road, Suite 212 Pikesville, MD 21208 Plaintiff v.

JAMES COOPER State of Maryland Office of the Attorney General Worcester County Treasurer's Office of Worcester County THE DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT OF THE STATE OF MARYLAND EDNA REYNOLDS COOPER ANTHONY J. MOHAN ATHENA K. ALEXANDRIDES All unknown owners of the property (1973 COLONA RD POCOMOKE 21851 being known as District - 01 Account Identifier 012096 with a legal description of 24,260 SQ FT N SIDE COLONA ROAD S OF POCOMOKE on the Tax Roll of the Director of Finance), the unknown owner's heirs devisees, and personal representatives and their or any of their heirs, devisees, executors, administrators, grantees, assigns, or successors in right, title and interest and any and all persons having or claiming

OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices to have any interest in the property.

Defendants IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY Case No. C-23-CV-26-000117

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 1973 COLONA RD POCOMOKE 21851 being known as District - 01 Account Identifier 012096 with a legal description of 24,260 SQ FT N SIDE COLONA ROADS OF POCOMOKE on the Tax Roll of the Director of Finance sold by the Finance Officer of WORCESTER COUNTY, State of Maryland to The Tax Lien Season 2025 LP, 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: 1973 COLONA RD POCOMOKE 21851 being known as District - 01 Account Identifier - 012096 with a legal description of 24,260 SQ FT N SIDE COLONA ROAD S OF POCOMOKE on the Tax Roll of the Director of Finance.

The Complaint states among other things that the amount necessary for redemption has not been paid.

It is thereupon this 22nd of May, 2026 by the Circuit Court for WORCESTER COUNTY, ORDERED that notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this Order in some newspaper having a general circulation in once a week for three consecutive weeks, warning all persons interested in the property to appear before this Court by the 25th day of July, 2026 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 Plaintiff, free of all liens and encumbrances.

Brian D. Shockley Judge, Circuit Court for WORCESTER COUNTY True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-6/4/3t _________________________________ MARIANNA BATIE ESQ LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MOUNT HERMON RD STE B SALISBURY, MD 21804-5303

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of EDMUND B CONNER Estate No. 21136 Notice is given that BONNELYNN S CONNER whose address is 11042 PINEY ISLAND DR BISHOPVILLE, MD 218131458 was on MAY 29, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of EDMUND B CONNER who died on APRIL 07, 2026 with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or

by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 29th day of NOVEMBER, 2026.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 29th day of NOVEMBER, 2026.

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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-6/4/3t _________________________________ SEAN J COLGAN ESQ. COATES, COATES & COATES 6200 COASTAL HWY STE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-6698

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES ESTATE NO. 21139 NOTICE IS GIVEN that the CHANCERY court of KENT, DELAWARE appointed JORDAN WESOLOWSKI whose address is 2043 FITZWATER ST APT 2 PHILADELPHIA, PA 19146-2299 as the PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE of the Estate of JOSEPH M WESOLOWSKI who died on NOVEMBER 04, 2025 domiciled in DELAWARE, USA. The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is SEAN J COLGAN ESQ whose address is 6200 COASTAL HWY STE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-6698. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: WORCESTER. All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written no-

JUNE 19, 2026 tice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-6/11/3t _________________________________ SEAN J. COLGAN ESQ. COATES, COATES & COATES 6200 COASTAL HWY., STE. 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-6698

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21145 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF NATALIE RUTH THOMAS BLOODSWORTH Notice is given that C. Ross Bloodsworth, 5018 Spinnaker Ln., King George, VA 22485-3160, was on June 05, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Natalie Ruth Thomas Bloodsworth who died on March 10, 2024, with a will.

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

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 5th day of December, 2026.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 5th day of December, 2026.

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

C. Ross Bloodsworth 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:

JUNE 19, 2026 June 11, 2026 OCD-6/11/3t _________________________________

OCD-6/11/2t _________________________________ Rachel Harris, Esq. P.O. Box 62 Pocomoke City, MD 21851

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, June 25, 2026 AT 6:00 P.M. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an application related to Section 110-94(2)(b) has been filed to request (1) a special parking exception from design standards to reduce the width of five (5) required off-street parking spaces by 6 inches on each side to allow for structural columns to be within the required 9’ X 20’ parking spaces; and (2) a special parking exception from design standards for two (2) required off-street parking spaces to be in a tandem configuration. The Property is described as Lot 8, Block 21 North, of the Sinepuxent Beach Company Plat. It is further described as being on the west side of Baltimore Avenue, the east side of Wilmington Lane, and is locally known as 703 Baltimore Avenue, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: HUGH CROPPER IV, ESQUIRE FOR MSG DEVELOPMENT, LLC (BZA 2741, #26-09400006) AT 6:15 PM Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an application related to Section 110-94(5) has been filed to request a special outdoor display of merchandise exception for retail items to be displayed on the exterior of the business known as Thrift and Treasures.

It is described as Lots 33 and 34 of the Revised Skyline Development Corporation Plat No. 3. It is further described as being located on the northwest corner of Philadelphia Avenue and Bayshore Drive and is locally known as Thrift and Treasures at 2609 Philadelphia Avenue, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: GUILIA CAMPBELL (BZA 2742, #26-09400007) 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

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OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices

IN THE ORPHANS’ COURT FOR (OR) BEFORE THE REGISTER OF WILLS FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND IN THE ESTATE OF: STEVEN JOSEPH PRUITT ESTATE NO. 21150

NOTICE

OF JUDICIAL PROBATE To all Persons Interested in the above estate: You are hereby notified that a petition has been filed by Edwin Halter, 6270 Taylor Landing Road, Girdletree, MD 21829 for judicial probate of the will and for the appointment of a personal representative. A hearing will be held at One W. Market Street, Court Room 4, Court House, Snow Hill, MD 21863 on July 21, 2026 at 10:00 a.m.

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

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

Terri Westcott Register of Wills One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Phone: (410) 632-1529 Newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Publication Date: June 18, 2026 OCD-6/18/2t _________________________________ JENNIFER S. YEAGLE ESQ. SIMS & CAMPBELL, LLC 181 HARRY S. TRUMAN PKWY., STE. 150 ANNAPOLIS, MD 21401-7565

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21142 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ROBERT W. SHAYER JR. AKA: ROBERT W. SHAYER, ROBERT WILLIAM SHAYER JR. Notice is given that Kathleen E. Shayer, 10872 Windmill Creek Ln., Berlin, MD 21811-1580, was on June 04, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Robert W. Shayer Jr. who died on March 22, 2026, with a will.

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

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 4th day of December, 2026.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 4th day of December, 2026.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present

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

Kathleen E. Shayer 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: June 11, 2026 OCD-6/11/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of WILLIAM PURNELL ROGERS JR. Estate No. 21141 Notice is given that PATRICIA R. JACKSON whose address is 8544 LANGMAID RD., NEWARK, MD 21841-2118 was on JUNE 04, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of WILLIAM PURNELL ROGERS JR. who died on JANUARY 14, 2026 without a will.

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

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 4th day of DECEMBER, 2026.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 4th day of DECEMBER, 2026.

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

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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-6/11/3t _________________________________ ASHLEY B. STITZER, ESQUIRE ATTORNEY FOR PLAINTIFFS ATTORNEY I.D. 78612 FRANK W. HOSKING III, ESQUIRE ATTORNEY I.D. 330831 MacELREE HARVEY, LTD. 17 West Miner Street, P.O. Box 660 West Chester, PA 19381-0660 (610) 436-0100 ALAN WALTER and KAREN WALTER Plaintiffs v.

LAURA WALTER and BRIAN WINDER Defendants IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS CHESTER COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA CIVIL ACTION - LAW CASE NO. 2019-06915 IN CUSTODY

NOTICE

TO APPEAR AT HEARING Laura Walter and Brian Winder: A Petition for Special Relief has been filed in the Court of Common Pleas of Chester County relating to obtaining a passport for the minor child: E.R.W. (DOB 00/00/0000).

A hearing on this matter is scheduled for June 22, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. in Courtroom 17, Chester County Justice Center, 201 W. Market St., West Chester, PA 19380.

YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS PAPER TO YOUR LAWER AT ONCE. IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A LAWYER, PLEASE CONTACT THE OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW: Lawyer Referral Service 15 West Gay Street West Chester, PA 19380 (610) 429-1500 IF YOU CANNOT AFFORD A LAWYER, PLEASE CONTACT THE OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW: Legal Aid of Chester County 222 North Walnut St., Second Floor West Chester, PA 19380 (610)436-4510 AMERICANS WITH DISABILTIEIS ACT OF 1990 The Court of Common Pleas of Chester County is required by law to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. For information about accessible facilities and reasonable accommodations available to disabled individuals having business before the court, please contact our office.

All arrangements must be made at least 72 hours prior to any hearing or business before the court. You must attend the scheduled conference.

OCD-6/11/2t _________________________________

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OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices

JULIAN J. MOSS PARKER, SIMON, LAW LLC 401 N. WASHINGTON ST., STE. 445 ROCKVILLE, MD 20850-0707

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20952 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MARY E. SAILORS Notice is given that Michelle Simon Esq., 401 N. Washington St., Ste. 445, Rockville, MD 20850-0707, was on June 10, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mary E. Sailors who died on January 03, 2022, without a will.

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

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

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

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

Michelle Simon Esq. 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: June 18, 2026 OCD-6/18/3t _________________________________ CHESAPEAKE LEGAL COUNSEL LLC JOHN F. ROBBERT ESQ. 2661 RIVA RD., STE. 410A ANNAPOLIS, MD 21401-7335

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 21154 NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Register of Wills court of Kent County, Delaware appointed Robbert E. Terry Jr., 2143 Lockwood Chapel Rd., Dover, DE 19904-5021 as the Administrator of the Estate of Elizabeth A. Terry who died on January 04, 2024 domiciled in Delaware, USA. The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is Anahi Rizo Sanchez, 2661 Riva Rd., Ste. 410A, Annapolis, MD 21401-7335.

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

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

Legal Advertising Call Pamela Green

months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

Robbert E. Terry Jr. Foreign Personal Representative Terri Westcott Register of Wills One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of Newspaper: Ocean City Digest Date of first publication: June 18, 2026 OCD-6/18/3t _________________________________ Law Offices of Jeffrey Nadel 4041 Powder Mill Road, Suite 200 Calverton, Maryland 20705 240-473-5000 Jeffrey Nadel Scott Nadel 4041 Powder Mill Road, Suite 200 Calverton, MD 20705 Substitute Trustees Plaintiff v.

Steven Craig Tamalavicz, Jr., PR for the Estate of Kathleen Joyce Tamalavicz aka Kathleen J. Tamalavicz 12212 Cygnet Lane Bishopville, MD 21813 Defendant(s) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND Civil No. C-23-CV-24-000064

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given this 12th day of June, 2026, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings, made and reported, will be ratified and confirmed, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 13th day of July, 2026, provided a copy of this notice be inserted in a weekly newspaper printed in said County, once in each of three successive weeks before the 6th day of July, 2026.

The Report of Sale states the amount of the foreclosure sale price to be $232,750.00. The property sold herein is known as 12212 Cygnet Lane, Bishopville, MD 21813.

Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-6/18/3t _________________________________

410-723-6397, Fax: 410-723-6511 or E-mail: legals@octodaydispatch.com

TOWN OF OCEAN CITY

PUBLIC HEARING CHARTER AMENDMENT RESOLUTION 2026-01

RE: Qualifications for Election as Mayor or City Councilman Notice is hereby given by the Mayor and City Council of Ocean

JUNE 19, 2026 City, that a proposed Charter amendment will be introduced at the Regular Session on July 6, 2026. A public hearing and presentation of a Charter Amendment Resolution is scheduled for July 6, 2026.

Summary of proposed Charter Amendment Resolution as to Domicile: Section C-401, Qualifications for election as Mayor or City Councilman: 1) amends the existing charter provisions by adding that a person shall not be deemed to satisfy the domicile requirements of the Charter where the person’s actual pattern of living demonstrates that another location constitutes his or her principal place of residence for substantial portions of the year; and 2) adds that it is the intent of this section that any candidate for elected office and any elected official, maintains the Town as his/her true, fixed, principal residence. Mere technical compliance with the domiciliary requirements, without actual residency within the Town, is inconsistent with the purpose and the intent of this Charter Section. In determining whether a candidate or elected official satisfies the residency requirements of this section, all relevant facts and circumstances shall be considered, and no single factor shall be dispositive.

An exact copy of the proposed amendment is posted at City Hall, available online at oceancitymd.gov on the City Clerk webpage and can be obtained by contacting the City Clerk’s office at 410-289-8824 OCD-6/18/1t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of JOAN SEIDENSPINNER Estate No. 21151 Notice is given that CYNTHIA WESTON whose address is 8688 ANGEL LN., APT. 101, DELMAR, MD 21875-2638 was on JUNE 10, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOAN SEIDENSPINNER who died on MAY 10, 2026 without a will.

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

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 10th day of DECEMBER, 2026.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal

JUNE 19, 2026 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-6/18/3t _________________________________ SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of BRIAN D. BASS Estate No. 21148 Notice is given that SUSANNE BASS whose address is 10865 WINDMILL CREEK LN., BERLIN, MD 21811-1580 was on JUNE 09, 2026 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of BRIAN D. BASS who died on MARCH 16, 2026 with a will.

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

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

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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-6/18/1t _________________________________ SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21153

PAGE 71

OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF GREGORY JOSEPH ROTH Notice is given that Joline Lavinia Roth, 9916 Golf Course Rod., TRLR 75, Row C, Ocean City, MD 218429584, was on June 12, 2026 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Gregory Joseph Roth who died on June 02, 2026, with a will.

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

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

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

Joline Lavinia Roth 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: June 18, 2026 OCD-6/18/1t _________________________________

Town of Snow Hill

NOTICE

of Public Hearing Board of Zoning Appeals Notice is hereby given that the Board of Appeals for the Town of Snow Hill Maryland will conduct a public hearing in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 200 Zoning, Article VI, §200 29-37 and Chapter 89, Article VII Variances §46-49 on: Wednesday, July 8th, 2026

6:30PM 309 N Washington St., Town Hall Annex For the following cases: Case No. 2026-3. 307 N Washington Street, Snow Hill, MD. Tax Account: 02016710. Map 0200, Grid 000, Parcel 0061. To request variances for the following: (1) to request a variance of 1.8 feet from the Flood Protection Elevation of 9.3 feet to allow the first floor to remain at 7.5 feet for an existing building undergoing substantial improvements per §89-37 A. 1; (2) dry flood proofing standards (water tight) per §89-37 B. (3) (a-g); (3) use restrictions, flood damage resistant materials, and wet flood proof requirements (vents) per § 8936 C. (1)-(3); (4) the elevation of certain electrical/mechanical/HVAC/ plumbing to be lower than the Flood Protection Elevation as per §89-24 A-H. For more information, contact the Snow Hill Planning Department at 410-632-2080, ext. 104.

The public is welcome to attend.

Additional information is available at Town of Snow Hill, 103 Bank Street Snow Hill, MD 21863 or by calling 410-632-2080. The Town of Snow Hill is in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special accommodations to attend this meeting contact us at 410-632-2080.

Snow Hill Board of Appeals OCD-6/18/2t _________________________________

Town of Snow Hill

NOTICE

of Public Hearing Board of Zoning Appeals Notice is hereby given that the Board of Appeals for the Town of Snow Hill Maryland will conduct a public hearing in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 200 Zoning, Article VI, §200 29-37 on: Wednesday, July 8th 2026 6:30PM 309 N Washington St., Town Hall Annex For the following cases: Case No. 2026-4. Belt Street Property consisting of 2.125 acres, located at the corner of Purnell and Belts Streets, Snow Hill, MD. Tax Account: 02022710. Map 0200, Grid 017, Parcel 0691. To request variances for the following: (1) A variance allowing a subdivision of an existing lot to be composed of a “flag lot” with a width of 40.28 feet for a variance of 59.72 feet to the minimum standard lot width of 100 feet for “other uses” in the M-1 Industrial District in accordance with Town of Snow Hill Zoning Code, Chapter 200, Attachment 2 Table of Height, Area, and Bulk Regulations”; For more information, contact the Snow Hill Planning Department at 410-632-2080, ext. 104.

The public is welcome to attend.

Additional information is available at Town of Snow Hill, 103 Bank Street Snow Hill, MD 21863 or by calling 410-632-2080. The Town of Snow Hill is in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special accommodations to attend this meeting contact us at 410-632-2080.

Snow Hill Board of Appeals OCD-6/18/2t _________________________________

MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL

NOTICE

of Public Hearing Board of Zoning Appeals Notice is hereby given that the Board of Appeals for the Town of Snow Hill Maryland will conduct a public hearing in accordance with the provisions of Snow Hill Town Code, Chapter 230 Zoning, Article VI, §200 29-33 and Chapter 89 Flood Plain Management Art. VII §89-4648 on: Wednesday, July 8, 2026 6:30PM 309 N Washington St., Town Hall Annex Case No. 2026-2. 295 Willow Street Snow Hill, MD. Tax Account: 02-016621. Map 0200, Grid 0009, Parcel 0106. To request variances for the following: (1) of 3.15 feet from the Flood Protection Elevation of 9.35 feet to allow the first floor of an existing building undergoing substantial improvements to remain at 6.2 feet per Town Code §89-37 A. 1; (2) waive use restrictions to allow the lowest floor to be used for a commercial laundry; flood damage resistance materials and wet flood proofing standards per Town Code § 89-36 C. (1)-(3); (3) dry flood proofing standards (water tight) per Town Code §89-37 B. (3) (a-g); (4) the elevation of certain electrical/mechanical/HVAC/plumbing to be lower that the Flood Protection Elevation per Town Code §89-24 A-H. The property is located in Flood Zone AE Community Panel Number 24047C0242H. This case was left open at the conclusion of the last meeting by the Board of Zoning Appeals.

For more information contact the Snow Hill Planning/Zoning/Building Department at 410-632-2080 ext.

104 or email codeofficial@snowhillmd.com OCD-6/18/2t _________________________________

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES ESTATE NO. 21155 NOTICE IS GIVEN that the CHANCERY court of KENT, DELAWARE appointed VENESSA RUSCH whose address is 323 E. VINE ST., SALISBURY, MD 21804-

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OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices

5562 as the PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE of the Estate of ROSA MARIA BISHOP who died on JUNE 15, 2024 domiciled in DELAWARE, USA. The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is N/A. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: WORCESTER COUNTY. All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the cred-

itor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-6/18/3t _________________________________ MICHAEL B MATHERS ESQ WEBB, WILBUR, MATHERS ILLUMINATI & LUKAS, LLP DOUSE & MATHERS, LLP PO BOX 910 SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of ALLEN F HUDSON Estate No. 21159 Notice is given that

AARON B HUDSON whose address is 36358 BRITTINGHAM ST WILLARDS, MD 21874-1105, VALERIE R HUDSON YEAGER whose address is 36113 TIMBER DR WILLARDS, MD 21874-1352 were on JUNE 15, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ALLEN F HUDSON who died on MARCH 12, 2026 with a will.

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

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 15th day of DECEMBER, 2026.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the

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JUNE 19, 2026 15th day of DECEMBER, 2026.

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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-6/18/3t _________________________________

MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL Notice of Public Hearing Board of Zoning Appeals Notice is hereby given that the Board of Appeals for the Town of Snow Hill Maryland will conduct a public hearing in accordance with the provisions of Snow Hill Town Code, Chapter 230 Zoning, Article VI, §200 29-33 and Chapter 89 Flood Plain Management Art. VII §89-4648 on: Wednesday, July 8, 2026 6:30PM 309 N Washington St., Town Hall Annex Case No. 2026-1. 204 River Street, Snow Hill MD, Tax Account: 02016486. Map 0200, Grid 0003, Parcel 0092. To request a variance to: (1) construct a non-residential structure (public restroom) owned by the Town of Snow Hill with the first-floor elevation at 5.10 feet, approximately 4.2 feet below the Flood Protection Level elevation of 9.3 feet required per Town Code §89-37 A. (1); and (2) waive use restrictions to allow the lowest floor to be used for a public restroom per Town Code §89-36 C. (1).) The property is located in Flood Zone AE Community Panel Number 24047C0242H. This case was left open at the conclusion of the last meeting by the Board of Zoning Appeals.

For more information contact the Snow Hill Planning/Zoning/Building Department at 410-632-2080 ext.

104 or email codeofficial@snowhillmd.com OCD-6/18/2t _________________________________

JUNE 19, 2026

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OC Today-Dispatch

Developer objects to zoning ruling

By Brian Shane Staff Writer (June 19, 2026) Telecom developer Globalinx is fighting Worcester County’s determination that its proposed cable landing station outside West Ocean City is not a public utility, setting up an August hearing that could determine whether the controversial project can move forward.

Globalinx on June 9 submitted two applications to the county's Board of Zoning Appeals: one challenging the county's determination that the facility is not a public utility, and another seeking a special exception that would allow the project to proceed even if that interpretation stands.

The company’s first zoning appeal must succeed before the second application can move forward, according to Jennifer Keener, the county’s director of development permitting and review. A hearing on that appeal is scheduled for Aug. 19.

If the appeal succeeds, the county’s planning commission would then take up the issue before being heard by the county commissioners.

Keener issued a June 2 ruling that effectively blocks Globalinx from moving forward in the normal planning and zoning approval process.

In her letter, Keener rejected the developer’s argument that its proposed

facility on Route 611 qualifies as a public utility under existing zoning rules.

While utility structures that serve the public are permitted uses in the property’s C-2 General Commercial zoning, county staff said the facility does not qualify because it would not directly serve the general public.

County staff concluded the facility was neither a public utility nor a data center under existing definitions.

In their BZA application, Globalinx says it intends to build a 25,000 square foot cable landing station on a 7.3-acre parcel.

The building would house electronic equipment that will receive transmissions from a subsea cable and transform those transmissions so they can be used as a neutral interconnection point for communications networks.

“It is the position of Globalinx that the use of the Property as a [cable landing station] is a permitted use (a public utility structure),” the application says.

Globalinx argues it meets the standards and definitions for a public utility facility because the cable landing station is, and will be used, in a manner consistent with public utility structures.

The Virginia Beach-based developer also says it meets the criteria for a special exception because it will conform with the county’s comprehensive plan and would have no detrimental effects

on the neighborhood or vehicular traffic.

County leaders, meanwhile, are examining the implications of re-writing the county’s zoning laws to prevent data centers or cable landing stations from being legal uses of property.

“We are actively working to strengthen and update our zoning code to address emerging development pressures,” wrote County Commissioner Eric Fiori in a June 10 social media post, “and close gaps that may leave our community vulnerable to projects that were not contemplated when the existing regulations were written.”

Fiori, whose District 3 includes the project site, has been a vocal opponent.

He hosted a public forum last month where Globalinx senior leaders laid out their plans and took dozens of questions from a somewhat hostile crowd.

Dozens of people attended the May 14 town hall, raising concerns about the project's size, environmental impacts, and power demands.

Among the most emotional issues was the future of the Purnell Cemetery, an African American cemetery located on the project site. Descendants and community members have expressed concern about how the 200-year-old burial ground would be protected.

The county's zoning determinations have focused on land-use questions and have not addressed those concerns.

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OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 74

JUNE 19, 2026

Parking income skewed due to axed festival OC transportation staff says parking division is ahead of budget projections for May

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (June 19, 2026) Ocean City Transportation Manager Rob Shearman said the absence of this year’s Boardwalk Rock music festival resulted in slightly skewed parking figures for the month of May. During last week’s meeting of the Ocean City Transportation Committee, Shearman presented parking data collected throughout May. While having a “slightly softer” month in terms of parking revenue, he noted that the division is ahead in yearover-year data.

“I realized what’s happening is last

year we shut the parking lot down in May for two to three weeks,” he told committee members. “This year we didn’t do that. So even though we were softer than we expected to be, we are still ahead, year over year.”

Sharing year-over-year data, Shearman said April and May parking revenues were down and transaction numbers were up. He theorized those two data points were the result of the city’s transition to a fully mobile payment system.

“People are paying more closely to the amount of time they expect to spend because they can add time from anywhere without running back to their car,” he explained. “So, the number of transactions is up, the amount of revenue is down, but it’s more convenient for our customers to be able to pay with the app and then

add time from wherever they stand, instead of having to overpay.”

Shearman said poor weather also played a role in last month’s revenue collections. However, he said revenues for on-street parking continue to track ahead of budget projections.

“We’re still tracking slightly ahead of budget, even though May was a little soft …,” he said. “I think that [increasing] the oceanblock rates is driving that trend.”

Shearman said parking revenues are also slightly ahead of budget projections for municipal lots, and slightly behind budget for the Inlet parking lot. Parking fine revenues are also slightly lower than budgeted for the month.

“We are still trending below budget on parking fine revenue, par-

tially because last fall we shut the inlet lot down for almost an entire month. So that generated fewer citations and invoices,” he told the committee. “And second, people can add time from anywhere, so they are less likely to get cited and fined. It’s a good thing. If we’re going to be behind in budget, that’s the thing to be behind in.”

In total, Shearman said the parking division went from being slightly behind budget projections in April, to slightly ahead of budget projections in May. And despite the slower month, the lack of a music festival at the Inlet this year pushed the division ahead on revenue, when compared to 2025.

“Once I realized that, it made a lot more sense,” he said.

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OC Today-Dispatch

JUNE 19, 2026

PAGE 75

Fed funding shifts discussed as MML opens

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (June 19, 2026) Ocean City officials welcomed state and local government leaders this week to the 77th annual Maryland Municipal League summer conference, which formally kicked off Monday.

For the 55th year in a row, roughly 1,500 attendees arrived in Ocean City to attend daily workshops and meet with community stakeholders as part of the league’s yearly conference.

During Monday’s opening remarks, Mayor Rick Meehan celebrated Maryland Municipal League’s return to Ocean City and its efforts to advocate for towns and cities across the state.

“I want to thank you for your commitment to local government,” he told attendees. “We’re the ones that are closest to our constituents, we’re the ones they seek answers from, and I think everyone here does such a terrific job. And it’s at a convention like this where we can all share ideas and get even better at what we strive to do each and every day.”

In his welcoming remarks, Meehan applauded the Maryland Municipal League for championing House Bill 1142 in the Maryland General Assembly this year. The legislation will require the state to form a task force that will explore new revenue options for Maryland's local governments.

“That was a big step forward for all of us,” he said.

Maryland Municipal League CEO Theresa Kuhns also spoke on the organization’s success in Annapolis. This year, MML reviewed 266 bills, prepared 347 fiscal notes for the Maryland Department of Legislative Services and passed its priority legislation – HB 1142.

“The effort of that work recognized great success in protecting municipalities, from preserving local authority and control to passing our third league priority in three years,” she said.

Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman said the bill’s passage comes at a critical time for county and municipal governments. The legislation, she added, will allow them to expand their “fiscal toolbox.”

“As the federal government shifts costs to states, the states will naturally shift costs to local governments – counties and municipalities,” she said.

“But you can’t raise revenues as well as the state can.”

While state tax revenues and wages are increasing, Lierman said many municipalities and residents are struggling. She noted that 40% of Marylanders are asset limited, income constrained and employed (ALICE), and increasing costs have hit both families and governments.

“This is true for you as well,” she told attendees.

“Every project that you undertake costs a lot more than it used to.”

But Lierman encouraged municipal leaders to continue investing in their communities. She said good governance was not just about “doing the right thing,” but “doing the thing right.”

“There’s an urge at this moment – with federal pullback and economic uncertainty and budgets under pressure – where we all decide to just play it safe,” she said. “Where we manage the climb instead of building for growth. Where we do the right thing on paper and quietly give up on doing the thing right. I’m not willing to do that, and I don’t think you are either.”

Monday’s opening ceremony also included re-

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Ocean CIty Mayor Rick Meehan is pictured presenting a key to the city to Pocomoke Mayor Todd Nock, outgoing MML head.

marks from Pocomoke Mayor Todd Nock, Maryland Municipal League’s outgoing president. In recognition of his contributions to the organization, Meehan presented him with a key to the city.

“He played a big role this year in the success of MML,” Meehan said.

For his part, Nock recognized MML leaders, volunteers and municipal officials who served alongside him this past year.

“Thank you for giving me the honor of serving as your 82nd president of the Maryland Municipal League,” he concluded.

MML’s summer convention continued through Wednesday and brought municipal leaders throughout Maryland to the resort for days of workshops, exhibitions and presentations. Gov. Wes Moore presented the closing remarks.

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 76

JUNE 19, 2026

REAL ESTATE REPORT

New Md. laws impact property management

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer (June 19, 2026) The 2026 449th Maryland General Assembly session adjourned on April 13. This week’s topic is “Property Management” related legislation that passed.

Maryland REALTORS® issues a recap of all of the pertinent legislation affecting the real estate industry.

Property Management: SB 335/HB 315 Discrimination in Housing - Income-Based Housing Subsidies– Effective 10/1/26 Prohibits landlords who use financial screening as part of a rental application from refusing to rent based on adverse

credit score or credit history when that tenant uses income-based housing subsidies.

Landlords may verify a tenant’s ability to pay their share of rent not covered by the subsidy and may use references or tenant’s past rental history as reasons to refuse to rent. Landlords with six or more rental units must provide tenants with the option to report positive payment history to a consumer reporting agency.

SB 937 Tenant Criminal History Records (MD Fair Chance Housing Act)– Effective 10/1/26 Prohibits a landlord of five or more residential rental units from requiring drug or alcohol tests or access to substance use treatment records from applicants.

If a landlord conducts a criminal his-

tory records check, the landlord must do so for every prospective tenant and provide upfront written notice explaining how criminal history will be used. Before making a conditional offer, landlords generally cannot ask about criminal history, with limited exceptions for certain serious and felony offenses.

After a conditional offer, landlords may conduct a background check and can withdraw the offer only for a legitimate, nondiscriminatory reason, with written explanation.

Applicants must be allowed to challenge inaccuracies and provide evidence of rehabilitation or mitigating factors, which landlords must consider.

SB 12 Residential Rental Apartments - Air-Conditioning Requirement– Effective 10/1/26 Landlords of apartment buildings with 10 or more units must provide air conditioning capable of maintaining 80°F or lower from June 1 to Sept. 30.

This applies to existing buildings that undergo complete or substantial renovation of electrical systems after the effective date, but excludes properties on the National Historic Registry or work permitted before June 1, 2026.

SB 729 Access to Counsel in Evictions Program - Expansion – Effective 10/1/26 Expands the Access to Counsel in Evictions Program to cover legal repre-

sentation and other services to individuals who occupy premises of a mobile home park.

SB 941/HB 1218 Severe Risk Properties - Safe and Healthy Homes for All Act – Effective 7/1/26 Requires the Office of Tenant and Landlord Affairs, with the Attorney General, to create a plan to identify and address large rental properties of 50+ units that consistently fail health and safety standards. The plan must include strategies to expand oversight and address noncompliant landlords.

Short-Term Rentals: SB 624/HB 1221 Short-term Rental Units – Fire Safety PASSED – Effective 10/1/26 Short-term rental hosts must post evacuation plans and emergency numbers, and provide a fire extinguisher and working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

Alarms must meet fire code, be interconnected (or approved alternatives), function properly, and be replaced if faulty or over 10 years old. By July 1, 2028, local jurisdictions must require annual inspections of short-term rentals to ensure compliance, and owners must show proof of compliance to booking platforms.

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PAGE 77

OC Today-Dispatch

USDA calls spring freeze a ‘natural disaster’

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (June 19, 2026) Local farmers could qualify for emergency assistance after the U.S. Department of Agriculture this week declared Worcester County and other surrounding jurisdictions as natural disaster areas following a late-April freeze that resulted in significant crop losses.

On Monday, USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins issued a natural disaster declaration for 12 Maryland counties and eight contiguous areas, including Worcester. The declaration will make farm operators in those jurisdictions affected by a late-April freeze eligible for federal disaster assistance through the Farm Service Agency.

“We hate relying on payments like this, but when there is a natural disaster, they certainly help – not to help the farmer make money, but to help them recoup some of their expenses,” Worcester County Farm Bureau Vice President John Bruning said in an interview this week.

During the early morning hours of April 21, following weeks of unseasonably warm weather, farmers across Maryland reported significant crop losses as temperatures in some areas of the state dipped into the low

20s, according to the Maryland Department of Agriculture and the Office of the Governor. Data show that the crop losses across multiple jurisdictions exceeded the 30% threshold for a federal natural disaster declaration.

In Worcester County, Bruning said the freeze hurt those who planted crops early. He talked of a small grain farmer in Newark who lost between 60% and 70% of his barley yield when the freeze hit the barley heads in a critical growing period known as a dough stage. He also reported that Barefoot Farms Produce in Snow Hill lost an estimated $3,000 in revenue when the freeze hit the farm’s strawberry crop.

“The trouble was we had a warm spell in March, so the plantings take off with premature blooming,” he explained. “We got that frost and it toasted all the strawberries we had and their blossoms.”

In May, both the Maryland Farm Bureau and Gov. Wes Moore, backed

by Maryland’s congressional delegation, submitted formal requests for a disaster designation to the USDA. And on Monday, the federal agency made its declaration.

“The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) reviewed the loss assessment reports and determined

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“In accordance with section 321(a) of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, additional areas of your State and adjacent States are named as contiguous disaster counties.”

The declaration follows a advocacy campaign spearheaded by the Maryland Farm Bureau. A statewide damage survey led by the agency showed nearly 90 affected growers had average estimated production losses of 67% across frost-damaged crops, with some operations reporting losses of 90% or higher.

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OC Today-Dispatch

JUNE 19, 2026

Drought compounds crop crisis

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

GOLD STAR MOTHER Gold Star Mother Sharon Hilty was accompanied by her grandson for the Memorial Day Service at the American Legion Post 166. The event was organized by the American Legion Auxiliary Group.

Continued from Page 77 areas.

With a disaster declaration now in place, growers in those jurisdictions could be eligible for low-interest emergency loans and credit extensions to aid in their recovery. Officials are encouraging them to contact their local Farm Service Agency office to begin the application process.

"Maryland’s farmers are the backbone of our state's economy, our heritage and our food security," the governor said in a news release this week. "When our agricultural community faces unprecedented climate challenges through no fault of their own, it is our duty to respond with urgency.

“We are grateful to Secretary Rollins and our federal partners at the USDA for their swift, collaborative response. And we thank the Maryland Farm Bureau and Maryland's Congressional Delegation for their partnership in supporting the needs of Maryland farmers and the statewide effort that helped secure this critical USDA designation.

“This disaster declaration provides a vital financial safety net to keep our hardworking family farms operational so they can continue to feed Maryland families while putting food on their own tables."

Congressman Andy Harris (R-District 1) also applauded USDA’s disaster

declaration in a statement this week.

“The April freeze was a devastating setback for many of the farmers I represent in Maryland’s First District,” he said in a news release. “I was glad to work with Secretary Brooke Rollins to secure this disaster declaration and provide the relief our producers need. As Chairman of the Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee, I'll continue working directly with USDA to ensure Maryland farmers receive the federal support available as they recover."

Officials say the crop crisis is compounded by severe drought conditions throughout Maryland. Currently, most counties remain under a severe or extreme drought designation by the U.S. Drought Monitor. Worcester County is currently in an extreme drought.

"This federal designation provides an important safety net to support what will be a multi-year recovery process," Maryland Secretary of Agriculture Kevin Atticks said in a news release. "Our producers are facing millions of dollars in ongoing maintenance costs without the crop income they rely on. Moving forward, the state will continue to work sideby-side with federal agencies and our congressional delegation to deploy every tool at our disposal to navigate this environmental volatility and preserve marketplace stability."

JUNE 19, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 79

Understaffed OC Fire Dept. logging additional overtime

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (June 19, 2026) Ocean City Fire Department officials say they are working to lower the fire department’s overtime hours, which increased by roughly 20% in the first quarter of the year.

During last week’s work session, Internal Auditor Karin Scott presented the Ocean City Council with a quarterly report on overtime hours.

From January to March, overtime across all departments increased by 12% when compared to the same quarter in 2025.

“For payroll in the quarter, there were 23,603 overtime hours worked during that quarter,” she said. “During the previous year, we were at 21,043 overtime hours. So, this was an increase of 2,559 hours.”

However, Scott said several things occurred in the first months of 2026 that did not occur in 2025. Those included a winter blizzard, which added 1,026 overtime hours, a warrant and apprehension grant, which added 225 overtime hours within the police department, and the Route 50 bridge closure, which added 630 overtime hours within the fire department.

For his part, Council President Matt James asked why the bridge closure resulted in more overtime for the fire department, as staff had agreed to move a unit from downtown Ocean City to West Ocean City.

“We had to supplement the unit over there as well,” City Manager Terry McGean replied.

Scott also noted other overtime increases within the fire department, including contract overtime, which increased from 1,515 hours to 1,724 hours, and training, which increased from 440 overtime hours to 882 overtime hours.

Councilman John Gehrig asked if overtime hours associated with training and paperwork could be reduced, particularly in the offseason.

“We’re in the dead of winter,” he said. “Can’t we train as part of our regular hours? Can’t we do paperwork as part of our regular hours? Or am I just ignorant here? I don’t know how it works.”

McGean, however, said the fire department continues to operate with minimum staffing levels, making it difficult to complete training without incurring overtime hours.

“I’m not trying to sharpen the pencil so fine that we have substandard team members,” Gehrig replied. “I want the best of the best. Maybe it’s something we can shine a light on and optimize so we’re not doubling it year over year, especially in the dead of winter.”

McGean said he was aware of issues within the fire department and was working with staff to decrease overtime hours.

“I think this offseason, with the fire department, we struggled, period, with overtime amongst all the categories,” he said. “And I know it’s something we’re trying to look at hard, working to bring it down.”

City officials last week also reviewed other internal audits, including those for procurement cards and takehome vehicles. Scott said take-home and on-call vehicle use remained consistent when compared to previous years.

“I will say this was done as of March, so the police department did not have all of their take-home vehicles ready to be given out,” she added.

“So as of May, they have assigned an additional 15 vehicles, bringing their total up to 56. So, if it looked a little off to you, that’s why.”

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OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 80

JUNE 19, 2026

Berlin Council discusses ditch maintenance Staff says municipality-led service would be too costly despite push from Burrell

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (June 19, 2026) The Berlin Town Council agreed last week to begin exploring a ditch maintenance program to aid in stormwater management, although staff cautioned that taking on the responsibility would require hundreds of thousands of dollars in equipment, personnel, and planning costs.

The discussion was part of the council’s review of the fiscal year 2027 budget last Monday night, when Council Vice President Dean Burrell raised concerns about drainage ditches that serve as critical components of the town’s stormwater management system.

“Our ditches impact our stormwater management,” Burrell said. “And if they’re not cleaned or maintained… it could happen that folks lose a lot of property. I also believe that it is un-

reasonable to think that 60,70,80year-old people can maintain these ditches.”

Town officials acknowledged that the drainage channels are important, but said the town lacks the equipment and personnel needed to maintain them.

“I agree with you,” Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall said in response to Burrell’s comments. “…The challenge is we do not have the equipment or expertise internally to handle that.”

Tyndall noted that even if the town decided to assume maintenance responsibilities, equipment and trained operators would be required.

Public Works Director Jimmy Charles estimated the town would need roughly $200,000 in specialized equipment and an additional $80,000 annually for a new staff member. Tyndall added that staff had previously estimated approximately $150,000 would be needed to identify ditch ownership and determine which drainage channels should qualify for town maintenance.

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“It becomes very complicated very quickly,” Town Administrator Mary Bohlen said.

Councilwoman Shaneka Nichols questioned whether county agencies or outside contractors could provide ditch maintenance services rather than requiring the town to build its own program.

Tyndall said any long-term maintenance effort would likely affect the town’s stormwater utility fees.

“Our residential stormwater fee for the entire town is $162,000,” he said. “The revenue is coming in from every single resident from the Town of Berlin. If we were going to assume operation and maintenance and ownership of these ditches, that number would have to go up by at least 50%.”

Nichols also asked whether property owners would even support increased town involvement on privately owned ditches.

“I don’t know if the residents ...will be open to ownership from the town,” she said.

Burrell clarified that his goal was

not for the town to take ownership of private property but rather to explore maintenance agreements for drainage ditches that are essential to the community’s stormwater infrastructure.

“We’re not taking the ditch, we’re maintaining the ditch,” Burrell said.

“There would probably have to be an agreement. As we stand here today, we don’t know if those folks would agree or not because we haven’t done a thing.”

After a lengthy discussion, Burrell introduced a motion directing town staff to begin developing a ditch maintenance policy and operational plan.

The motion passed unanimously, with Councilman Jay Knerr absent.

Following the vote, Tyndall reiterated that staff had already identified substantial costs associated with creating such a program.

“Staff have done that work,” he said. “We have given council information they need…$150,000 for the report, $200,000 for equipment, and $80,000 salary for staff.”

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JUNE 19, 2026

PAGE 81

OC Today-Dispatch

Boardwalk one-miler honors the memory of local woman Event proceeds will support scholarship fund for local graduating high schoolers (June 19, 2026) The Ocean City Day Drinkers Club and the A.M. Foundation, Inc. have announced the Cathy Reiter Memorial One Mile’er, a unique onemile boardwalk race and brunch event in Ocean City on Saturday, June 27, benefiting scholarships for local students and supporting the Ocean City Chamber of Commerce.

The event honors the memory of Cathy Reiter, a beloved sister, mother, aunt, and one of Cork Bar’s biggest fans. Proceeds will support the A.M. Foundation’s annual scholarship fund awarded to graduating seniors from Stephen Decatur High School pursuing higher education at a college, university, or trade school.

Participants will begin at Cork Bar and run or walk one-half mile along Ocean City’s historic Boardwalk to the checkpoint at 3rd Street before returning to Cork Bar to complete the full mile.

“This event isn’t about being the fastest person on the Boardwalk,” said Billy Apostolou, President of the A.M. Foundation.

“It’s about coming together as a community, honoring Cathy, supporting local students, and having a great time while doing it. Whether you run, jog, or walk, everyone is welcome.”

Registration runs from 7:30 a.m.8:30 a.m. Race start is 9 a.m. Entry fee is $40 online and $50 day of race.

Participants will enjoy awards and race medals for first, second, and third place finishers, post-race brunch at Cork Bar, first drink courtesy of event sponsors, bar specials and live music.

Not interested in running? Organizers are offering a “No Mile’er” Brunch Option for supporters who simply want to join the celebration.

All proceeds benefit the A.M. Foundation Scholarship Fund and the Ocean City Chamber of Commerce.

Visit www.ocdaydrinkers.com and click events to register.

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JUNE 19, 2026

School board tightens social media policies Authorship of content vs. sharing others’ online posts key to board’s discussion

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (June 19, 2026) Worcester County’s public schools administration is looking to tighten its social media policy for employees without violating anyone’s First Amendment rights but also ensuring that social media messaging remains professional.

At Tuesday’s Worcester County Board of Education meeting, school personnel and board members discussed how to write guidelines that don’t censor employees but do establish where the line is that posters shouldn’t cross.

The policy reviewed this week was created by a committee that was tasked with overhauling obsolete WCPS social networking rules. This team consisted of board attorney Heather Stansbury, board members Jackie Cutlip, Elena McComas, and

WER

P

Jon Andes, and executive team members.

Stansbury asked the school system’s governing body to provide direction as she and staff work to form a final draft.

Receiving the most attention was a passage that said, “Employees shall not author or share social media content that would likely impair the employee’s effectiveness as an educator and/ or role model or likely undermine the educational environment or likely damage the public’s confidence in the Board and/or WCPS.” The board debated whether the word “share” should be included alongside the term “author.”

Andes said that he would prefer rules that oppose authoring hostile content while leaving out the word “share.”

Andes argued that slander and libel cases, for example, would likely only consider original material.

“I support the phrase, ‘employees shall not author,’” Andes said. “I believe when thinking about slander and libel…that applies to something I

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say, and I personally said.”

McComas, however, countered that sharing content, such as reposting words, photos, or videos originally posted by another user, amounts to authorship because it implies endorsement of that message.

“Let’s say someone posts a meme that is all about violence against a political figure and you share their post, that has your name at the top,” McComas said. “That’s the piece where ‘share’ came in for me. Social media, so much of it now, is not just writing.”

Stansbury did note that sharing a social media post in bad faith would likely not constitute libel in most instances.

“Could someone have a civil suit successfully won over libel for sharing a social media post? That would be a case I would like to see,” she said.

“It would be hard, long, expensive.”

Ultimately, the education board approved 6-1 just to include the word “author” and remove “share” from the policy. McComas was the sole dissenting vote.

Tuesday’s vote did not approve the entire policy, but rather provided Stansbury with direction as she works to finalize it. An ultimate reworking of the system’s social media conduct rules will come before the board at its July 14 meeting for full

approval.

Tuesday’s conversation also touched on how teachers, coaches, and staff may communicate with their students.

Cutlip wondered whether a sports coach would be allowed to send out important notices to their athletes and questioned whether messaging platforms such as GroupMe are classified alongside more obvious social media sites like Facebook and Instagram.

WCPS staff said that while GroupMe would not be considered a Facebook-esque app, the system intends to roll out its own communication method.

“We are going to be rolling out new ways that are an expectation in communication between coaches and students, teachers and students, teachers and parents,” said Superintendent Annette Wallace. “We’ll be rolling out something, and the community will hear more specifically about that, and that will be our expected mode of communication.”

She added that information about that platform will be revealed at a later date as details are sorted. She also noted that faculty should not use Facebook or Instagram to chat with students or to share announcements and updates.

“Communication and social media should not be the same thing,” Wallace said.

The policy upgrade follows a situation last fall in which a teacher posted a harsh political message on his social media page.

In September, Charlie Kirk, a popular political figure in conservative circles and an advocate for President Donald Trump, was assassinated at Utah Valley University during a political rally.

Shortly afterwards, a Worcester County teacher posted an improper comment regarding Kirk was and suspended for it.

School officials believe the revised policy will make it clear where the board stands on any sort of messaging of an inflammatory nature.

Andes maintained that outlining clear standards is not an attempt to strip school system employees of the right to free speech.

“The revision of the existing policy is not to infringe on anyone’s First Amendment speech right,” he said.

“The intent is to help our employees understand that there are certain behaviors on social media that are simply unacceptable because you represent Worcester County Public Schools and, more importantly, you’re a role model for our kids. We have to have certain expectations of our employees…this represents what we value as a school system.”

OCTodayDispatch.com

JUNE 19, 2026

PAGE 83

OC Today-Dispatch

OPA hosts candidates’ Q&A forum We’re Worth Election issues for hopefuls include amenities, budget, infrastructure, and security

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (June 19, 2026) Candidates for the Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors had the opportunity to appeal to voters last Saturday at the association’s questions-and-answers forum.

The five association homeowners vying for the three board seats up for election this year responded to inquiries from the OPA Elections Committee, members of the community, and each other.

These seats to be filled are currently held by Board President John Latham, Director Elaine Brady, and Director Patrick Lehnerd, who was appointed to the group in March after the early resignation of Director Steve Jacobs.

Latham, Brady, and Lehnerd are all seeking reelection to a three-year term. Additionally, residents Amy Peck and William “Bill” Pickett are hoping they will end up in two of those seats at the director’s table instead.

Candidates Peck, Latham, Pickett, and Lehnerd attended the weekend’s forum. While Brady is still campaigning for reelection, she was absent from

the event due to a prior commitment that was unable to be rescheduled.

The Q&A was hosted by the community’s elections committee and was organized into rounds. The first segment allowed the candidates to provide opening remarks. The campaigners then randomly selected and answered questions from the elections committee, followed by inquiries submitted by community members.

The board hopefuls were also given the opportunity to ask their contenders a question.

Opening comments Peck’s platform is fiscal responsibility and spending money on needs rather than wants. The challenger also expressed her support for reinstating the axed advisory committees.

These groups, consisting of homeowners who volunteered their time on topics such as marine activities, golf, aquatics, racquet sports, and environmental assets, were eliminated by a majority vote of the board last September.

Latham said his priorities are safety and security, beautification, infrastructure, and responsible budgeting.

“If reelected, I will continue using my board experience and business background of leadership, communication, and financial management to make sound decisions for our community,” he said.

Pickett said that if elected, he would like to revise the Ocean Pines vision and mission statement, as well as the strategic plan, to serve as an effective guiding framework for the neighborhood. He added that he wants to emphasize safety, communication, and financial stability.

Lehnerd said effective establishing and maintaining communication remains one of OPA’s biggest challenges. He urged residents to use the appropriate channels, like emailing info@oceanpines.org, rather than taking grievances to social media.

He also said he would like to see a revamp of the Ocean Pines website to provide easier access to important forms and documents.

Questions from the elections committee Peck was asked what Ocean Pines can do to enhance the community's voice on larger issues within Worcester County. She responded that OPA should host more town halls on these matters, pointing to the wind farm issue in Ocean City and the proposed sports complex.

“I follow outside issues very closely... because they do impact us,” she said.

“And I have been very disappointed that we have not had more town halls about these important issues. Whether it be wind farms, the board decided to join the lawsuit on its own without a See FIVE Page 84

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PAGE 84

OC Today-Dispatch

JUNE 19, 2026

Five candidates vying for 3 open OPA seats Continued from Page 83 town hall. Whether it be the sports facility, the public landing station…Route 90 expansion, which I have been following. 589, when is our bridge be replaced? All of these issues impact Ocean Pines, and I think the best way to get the message out is to get input.”

The candidate added that giving homeowners who attend board meetings virtually a chance to speak during public comments would also help expand community feedback.

Latham was asked what characteristics of his personality would be detrimental to his being elected to the board. He responded that while some may view his tendency to make quick decisions negatively, it often lends itself to an effective governing team.

“What this board is doing, and I encourage as a president…is to make sure that we are making decisions and moving along. Not leaving them to sit,” he said. “We gotta make the decision, or we move on. What I hear occasionally is that we don’t have conversations…that is the furthest thing from the truth…making decisions, moving them forward, and planning are things this board is doing…”

He also said that the current board of directors has conversations for weeks or months leading up to a decision, so while

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TARA FISCHER/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors candidates John Latham, Amy Peck, Bill Pickett, and Patrick Lehnerd debated the issues at a public forum on June 13.

some issues seem to be resolved quickly, ample thought goes into the final verdict.

Pickett was asked about his ideas regarding potential improvements to Ocean Pines. The contestant said that while OPA has many great amenities and leadership, its organization could be improved.

“Looking at the website and looking for documentation in preparation for today, I saw a lot of patchy pieces of good things,” he said. “I saw a strategic

plan…I saw mission and vision statements on our website that didn’t match the ones on the general manager’s website. It was close but wasn’t quite right.”

To conclude the first round of questions, Lehnerd was asked about his stance on the eliminated advisory committees. Lehnerd said that while the board voted to axe the volunteer teams before his tenure, he supports the decision.

He noted that work groups formed

with a clear objective and end goal would be better suited for Ocean Pines.

“I’m not sure those committees were the best way to organize our community to make things happen,” he said. “Moving more toward a task force model that has a more focused objective with a defined lifetime…if you have a defined beginning and end, you’re more successful than if you’re out there spinning your wheels trying to find things to do.

“So, I suspect that I would have

JUNE 19, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 85

Tree removal, bike lanes discussed at forum voted to eliminate those advisory committees. I think the task force model is the way to go. As we execute those and study their effectiveness, we can adjust as appropriate.”

Questions from the community Peck was asked whether she would have voted to join the lawsuit opposing offshore wind turbines along the Ocean City coast. In 2024, the OPA Board of Directors collaborated with Ocean City and a host of other organizations in litigation against the controversial project.

Peck said that if she had been on the board at that time, she would have abstained. The election challenger maintained that this decision stems from the OP community not being given a chance to share their thoughts on the issue before the governing body voted on it.

Latham was asked if he would support requiring a home buyer or builder to acknowledge that they have read and accepted the community’s policy regarding tree removal.

The incumbent said he would and added that there has been “a lot of misinformation” on the topic. A group of association members has stated that they believe there has been an increase in the clear-cutting of trees when new houses are constructed.

Latham maintained that having prospective builders review such policies could alleviate some of the

conflict, as it would clear up what is required by Ocean Pines, what is mandated by Worcester County, and how these standards interact.

Pickett was asked whether he would support funding for a bike-andpedestrian lane on Ocean Parkway.

The challenger said while the street is not conducive to road sharing, integrating a new path would alter the character of Ocean Pines. He added that he would rather see OPA lower the speed limits to promote safety.

Lehnerd was asked what the best ways are for the board to solicit community feedback in the absence of advisory committees. He responded that “info@oceanpines.org is a fantastic place to address issues.” He also urged residents to attend board meetings and share their ideas and complaints during the citizen comments section.

Questions from each other Peck asked Latham how eliminating committees has made Ocean Pines a better place.

According to Latham, work groups tasked with aiding the general manager and his team with ongoing projects “is the right way.” He said that the standing advisory committees were often looking for initiatives to tackle, which led to unrealistic ideas.

Additionally, Latham noted that the committees had become redun-

dant as the community continues to build a strong operations team.

When it was his turn, Latham declined to ask any of his fellow board hopefuls a question.

Pickett asked Lehnerd how this task would be accomplished, since Ocean Pines has stopped aiding residents with ditch maintenance.

Lenherd argued that the responsibility of ditch clearing should fall to the homeowner.

“My position, radical it may be, is to take pride in your property and take care of it yourself,” Lehnerd said.

“And if you can’t manage it, there are reasonably priced resources out there that can take care of it for you.”

Lehnerd then asked Peck how she would integrate herself into the board if she were elected.

Peck responded that she plans to

work collaboratively, ask questions, hear facts, and consider others’ perspectives. She added that she plans to solicit resident input as part of her decision-making process.

“When you have a board that is constantly voting 7-0, or 6-1, that doesn't necessarily mean you have an effective board,” she said. “When you're operating in an echo chamber, and you’re eliminating outside voices, is that really what makes the best decisions? I don’t believe so. I believe the seven board members are qualified, but they are not experts in everything. So, you need to hear from the community. One of our best features here in Ocean Pines is the vast amount of expertise that we have.”

Ballots are planned to be mailed on June 22, and voting will conclude at noon on Aug. 5.

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Opinions

June 19, 2026

Page 86

Voters should reject majority Maryland’s primary elections are next Tuesday and for Worcester County Republican and Democratic voters that means it’s time to decide what kind of county government they want for the next four years.

Although the general election doesn’t take place until Nov. 3, all but two of the seven county commissioner races will be settled in the primary, so let’s be clear: this election will be voters’ one shot at breaking up the anti-public education and frequently imperious county commissioner majority.

The majority’s four members—Caryn Abbott, Chip Bertino, Jim Bunting, and Ted Elder—have done more than merely shortchange school funding year after year. They have also tried to justify their decisions by attacking the school system’s image, often painting it as an out-of-control, money-wasting enterprise.

Voters must right this wrong by replacing the three members of this group who are seeking reelection — Abbott, Bertino and Elder — and restoring the professional working relationship between Worcester County Public Schools and the commissioners. Bunting is not running for reelection.

As for our views on the individual commissioner races, we must first acknowledge our conflict of interest in the District 4 contest.

One of incumbent Elder’s challengers is Berlin Councilman Steve Green, who also is the executive editor of this paper. We are therefore obligated to take the fifth on the 4th.

Elsewhere on the ballot, we encourage First District Republican voters to support Pocomoke businesswoman Laura Morrison over anti-public education incumbent Abbott.

In District 2, we believe Democratic voters should reelect Diana Purnell, who has served her constituents well, and in District 3, we endorse the return of Republican Commissioner Eric Fiori.

We also endorse challenger Joe Schanno in the District 5 (Ocean Pines) Republican contest over incumbent Chip Bertino, who has been the de facto leader of the four-member majority and sometimes seems to be engaged in a grudge match with school system leadership. The winner of this contest will face Democrat Vicky Wallace in the fall.

In the other contested Republican primary, in District 6, we support the recently retired superintendent of schools for Worcester County Lou Taylor. Given his credentials how could we not?

Although we have taken a decidedly pro-public education stand, we don’t believe the school board should be given whatever it wants, and we feel the candidates we support would agree.

Equally important, however, is that these candidates will not vote to deny the school system what it needs out of spite, or simply to assert their authority over board members and administrators.

— Stewart Dobson Editor

OC Today-Dispatch NEWS EDITOR STEWART DOBSON; EXECUTIVE EDITOR STEVE GREEN ASSOCIATE EDITOR BETHANY HOOPER STAFF WRITERS TARA FISCHER, BRIAN SHANE News Room: editor@octodaydispatch.com

PUBLIC EYE

Conflict of interest

In addressing our conflict of interest this week (see our confession and whatnot at left) it has occurred to me that few people realize just how many conflicts of interest small town governments experience over time.

More often than not, it can’t be helped because small towns and rural areas aren’t necessarily fishing in the deep end of the talent pool as they attempt to fill every position.

Over my time of covering municipal and county governBy ments here and elsewhere, I’ve Stewart seen all kinds of people serve Dobson in local government because of a single attribute: they were willing do it.

Some were more able than others, as is always the case, but availability, a desire to take up civic duties, and the time to devote to it are the biggest drivers of public service in small population jurisdictions. Having brains and talent, well, that’s a big bonus.

But no matter who holds what office, the good ones do everything they can to avoid being accused of self-dealing or unfairness.

Stubbornly local, equally independent SALES ACCOUNT MANAGERS MARY COOPER, TERRI FRENCH, RENEE KELLY CLASSIFIEDS/LEGALS PAMELA GREEN Sales: sales@octodaydispatch.com

And when the local reporters and editors see that, as they inevitably will, they go along ... up to a point. Overt self-dealing is called out as it should be.

In some places I’ve worked, there were so few people willing to hold office that the candidate qualification forms might as well have asked, “Can you write without a crayon?” Or, “Breathing preferences — mouth open or closed?” That is not the case here, of course.

Our conflict posed by a co-worker seeking public office is being handled by acknowledging that government in general would not exist without the ability to overlook all the conflicts that arise where tourism and real estate make the cash registers ring.

Realtors, bankers, lawyers, media people, restaurateurs, retailers — they all have a stake in how things work and how they are done.

Simply put, we have no monasteries or nunneries from which to draw candidates who have nothing at stake.

So, we acknowledge our conflict, do the best we can, and stop worrying quite as much about what people think. Besides, they’ll probably think it anyway no matter what we do.

PRODUCTION ART DIRECTOR COLE GIBSON SENIOR PAGE DESIGNER SUSAN PARKS SENIOR AD DESIGNER KELLY BROWN

OC Today-Dispatch is published Fridays by FLAG Publications, Inc. 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 410-723-6397

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OC Today-Dispatch

JUNE 19, 2026

PAGE 87

Between the Lines

By Steve Green

Not so fast.

That seems to be what Worcester County Circuit Court Judge Beau Oglesby said this week when he rejected a negotiated plea agreement presented to him in the case of Dee Shorts, the former high-paid school system administrator who admitted to a $118,741 theft scheme over a six-year period.

The ‘binding” plea agreement, inked the day before Shorts was indicted by a grand jury and crafted by the Office of the State Prosecutor and her defense, included full restitution being wired and a five-year sentence with 18 months suspended and three years of supervised probation. The theft scheme of $100,000 or more charge, however, carries a maximum sentence of 20 years and/or a $25,000 fine.

It was a fascinating development. It’s clear the judge must want more time in the case than 18 months and most likely did not like being presented with an unusual “binding” plea arrangement in this county. Once the deal was rejected, Shorts withdrew the agreement, opting for a trial before a judge, while requesting a different one than Oglesby. In the plea agreement, a matter of public record, Shorts did admit to the theft scheme. *** Worcester County’s surplus from the last fiscal year was finally reported this week after months of waiting. Nearly all governments finish the fiscal year with a surplus – the difference between revenues and expenditures.

Due to the standard accounting practice of underestimating revenues and overestimating expenses, governments typically close the fiscal year budget with money unspent. Governments called it a surplus. Businesses call it a profit. The money is then put in reserves.

The county’s surplus of $30 million is a positive thing but it confirms the county does not have a revenue problem. It was interesting not one commissioner had anything to say about the surplus at Tuesday’s meeting, and the motion to move the surplus into special project assignments was approved by the typical 4-3 vote.

It was known the county was going to have a massive surplus, but the magnitude of it was astounding. This surplus still came after reducing the property tax rate by 3 cents. Despite an awareness of the surplus beforehand, the majority of the commissioners opted to not meet the school system’s full funding request. The decision to not meet the ask and slice the school system by $2.8 million shows the current commission majority simply does not want to give the school system the money it says it needs to operate. There’s a lack of trust and it was there before the recent embezzlement charge, which a couple of the commissioners have pointed to for their votes, while the full ask was deemed “outrageous” and “ridiculous” by two others.

A surplus is a super thing, but not when the money is hoarded and members of the community are negatively affected by decisions. You can read about the impacts on the school system outlined by Superintendent of Schools Annette Wallace in this week’s edition. *** With one day to go in early voting, the unofficial early voting turnout for this primary has surpassed the two last elections. So far, again after seven days with one to go on Thursday, 1,263 voters have come out early to the Ocean Pines Community Center. Typically, the last day of early voting sees the biggest turnout, so it seems clear interest is running higher than four years ago. By comparison, early voting over the eight-day period in the 2024 presidential primary was 1,232 voters in Worcester County and in 2022 (the last commissioner election primary) it was 1,207.

What does all this mean? Not much, except there’s more early voting interest. It could be due to the issues of the day or just the geographical convenience for some, while massively inconvenient to others. *** How much money is in cannabis for Maryland? It’s a lot.

According to the state Comptroller’s Office, $26.2 million in tax revenue was received from January through March. The current sales tax on cannabis is 12%, which was increased last July from 9%. This tax could be going up again next year, as the revenue-hungry state administration is seriously considering increasing the state’s sales tax of 6%. It’s been discussed increasing the sales tax to 7% with a potential portion of the new outlay going to the municipalities where the transactions occur. This would be a nice boon to local government budgets in Snow Hill, Berlin and Pocomoke, but comes at the expense of the consumers.

Back to cannabis tax revenue, of the total collection, approximately $3 million came from the Eastern region over the first three months of the calendar year, which includes the two in Worcester County. A third license has been approved for Worcester and a proposed site is being considered in Pocomoke for the former Plaza Tapatia. At one time, the third license was eyed in Ocean City, but it was effectively killed through zoning.

3ELECT Lou

Taylor Commissioner District 6

3Integrity 3Deeply Committed 3Approachable by All 3Independent Thinker 3Team Player 3Effective Communicator 3Visionary 3Relationship Builder “Focused on Our Future!”

My Priorities:

• Serve District 6 & the entire community • Promote smart economic growth through effective planning • Maintain a high-quality educational system • Provide a strong commitment to public safety • Responsible budgeting & strong stewardship of taxpayer dollars

3Elect Lou Taylor for

Commissioner

District 6

LouTaylorforDistrict6Commissioner.com Lhterps78@gmail.com 410.352.3132 Authority of Charlotte K. Cathell, Treasurer

OC Today-Dispatch

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Letters to the editor Voters can shape county’s future in primary election Editor, School funding debates often get trapped between two equally simplistic arguments: “More money automatically equals better schools” and “Money doesn’t matter at all.”

The reality, as usual, is somewhere in between.

As someone who works with large datasets for a living, I’ve learned that numbers rarely tell a story on their own. People tell stories with numbers. That’s why I become skeptical whenever a complex issue is reduced to a single chart, ranking, or statistic.

Accurate data can still create an inaccurate impression when important context is left out.

Recently, much of the conversation around Worcester County Public Schools has focused on per-pupil spending. It is true that Worcester ranks near the top of Maryland in per-pupil funding. It is also true that Worcester ranks near the top of Maryland academically. Those two facts are often discussed separately when they should be discussed together.

The question isn’t just what we’re spending. The question is what we’re getting in return. Over the last

decade, Maryland’s experience with educational funding vs achievement suggests that funding is neither a magic wand nor an irrelevant detail.

The available data suggests Worcester County Public Schools are delivering results that are consistent with that investment. Worcester ranks 3rd in Maryland in per-pupil funding and 4th in academic performance. Among Maryland’s 24 school systems, Worcester is one of only four counties that ranks in the top five in both categories. Worcester’s math proficiency rate of 59.3% and English Language Arts proficiency rate of 65.1% place it among the strongest-performing school systems in the state.

Worcester’s academic outcomes are often closer to counties such as Howard, Carroll, Frederick, and Montgomery than they are to many neighboring rural systems. That is not an accident.

What often gets ignored is that per-pupil spending is heavily influenced by factors that have little to do with waste or inefficiency. The Maryland Report Card itself cautions that direct comparisons can be misleading because expenditures vary based on enrollment, staffing, transportation requirements, specialized programs, and student needs.

JUNE 19, 2026

One reason is a basic economic principle known as economies of scale. Simply put, bigger operations can often do things more cheaply per unit than smaller ones because many costs stay relatively the same regardless of size.

A county serving 7,000 students still needs buses, principals, nurses, counselors, maintenance staff, technology infrastructure, and specialized services. Many of those costs exist whether a district serves 7,000 students or 70,000 students. When those fixed costs are spread across fewer students, the cost per pupil naturally rises.

Farmers here on the Eastern Shore can surely understand this concept immediately. Whether you farm 500 acres or 5,000 acres, you still need equipment, maintenance, insurance, and labor. Many of those costs don’t shrink proportionally with the size of the operation. A smaller farm has fewer acres generating income to absorb those expenses, which often results in a higher operating cost per acre. School systems work much the same way.

If a lender told a farmer, “Your costs per acre are higher than a 5,000-acre operation, so you should simply spend less,” most farmers would laugh them out of the room.

The same logic applies to school systems.

If we’re going to talk about what we’re spending, we should also talk about what we’re getting.

One of the biggest misconceptions in public budgeting is the assumption that any increase automatically represents expansion. It often doesn’t.

Just as families have experienced rising costs for groceries, utilities, insurance, healthcare, and transportation, school systems face the same inflationary pressures. A budget increase does not automatically mean dozens more programs, hundreds of additional staff, or every new initiative that can be imagined. Sometimes it simply means paying more to provide the same services.

Much of what is described as “new spending” is really the cost of maintaining the system we already have in an inflationary environment.

After reviewing the FY27 budget request, I was struck by how ordinary it was. Of the $13.36 million requested increase, more than $10 million was tied to teacher and staff compensation, health insurance, retirement obligations, pension shifts, transportation costs, and other basic operational expenses. The largest components were compensation and benefits, not new programs or administrative expansion.

A budget that fails to keep pace with inflation is not a flat budget. It is a budget cut in real terms.

The narrative that Worcester County Public Schools requested some massive expansion simply isn’t supported by the numbers available for anyone to review. The district’s own budget summary shows that most of the requested increase was tied to the rising cost of operating the system that already exists.

I also expected to find evidence of the “perks,” waste, and administrative excess that critics frequently reference. Instead, I found requests for teacher compensation, Pre-K expansion, dual enrollment opportunities, technology replacement, substitute pay, student support programs, and bus assistants for elementary students. More importantly, when reductions were made, the cuts largely affected student services, staffing supports, instructional programs, technology replacement, and transportation assets rather than any obvious examples of waste.

This is also not occurring in isolation. Worcester County Public Schools have absorbed funding reductions and deferred needs over multiple budget cycles. When budgets consistently fail to keep pace with inflation, maintenance is postponed, technology replacement is delayed, salaries become less competitive, and staffing pressures increase. Those effects compound over time.

The challenge is that the consequences rarely appear immediately.

High-performing systems often continue producing strong results for years because they are benefiting from investments made in the past.

The danger is assuming those results Continued on Page 90

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JUNE 19, 2026

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Continued from Page 88 will continue indefinitely regardless of future investment. Educational outcomes are influenced by many factors, and increased funding alone is insufficient to solve every educational challenge. But one thing is clear: the highest-performing systems are rarely the ones making a habit of underinvesting in their stu-

AUGUST 3, 1957

dents, teachers, and schools.

If Worcester County’s performance eventually begins to slip, the causes will not suddenly appear that year. They will likely be found in years of deferred maintenance, delayed investments, staffing challenges, and opportunities that were gradually reduced or postponed. By then, rebuilding what was lost will be

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far more expensive than maintaining it would have been in the first place.

None of this means the Board of Education should be exempt from scrutiny. If waste exists, identify it. If funds are being misused, prove it.

Every taxpayer-funded organization should be accountable, and I fully support audits and oversight designed to identify genuine waste, inefficiency, or misuse of public funds.

Any individual found to be intentionally misusing taxpayer dollars should be held accountable.

But accountability must be grounded in evidence. Public education should not become collateral damage while political agendas, talking points, or public posturing play out.

As an analyst of data in my own career, if someone showed me a business dashboard that displayed only cost while omitting performance, quality, outcomes, retention, growth, and long-term results, my first question would be simple: “Why this metric?”

That is the question I keep coming back to in this debate.

“Worcester spends more per pupil than some neighboring counties” is a fact.

“Worcester is one of the highestperforming school systems in Maryland” is also a fact.

Those facts should be discussed together.

This issue is personal to me. I am a Worcester County taxpayer, a graduate of Worcester County Public Schools, and a parent of one child currently in the school system, with a second soon to follow. I also chose to put that passion into action by serving on the Board of the Worcester County Education Foundation, whose mission is to provide additional support and resources for Worcester County students and teachers beyond what state and county funding alone can provide.

Great schools do not happen by accident, and they do not sustain themselves. They are the result of thousands of decisions made over many years by administrators, teachers, support staff, parents, and elected leaders who chose to invest in the future rather than simply manage the present. On June 23, voters will have an opportunity to choose County Commissioners who will help shape that future. Our students deserve leaders who view public education as an investment in our future, not a line item to be cut.

Because the decisions we make will determine whether the next generation inherits one of Maryland’s strongest school systems, or simply the memories of one. The question is not how cheaply we can educate our children. The question is how well.

Our students deserve leaders who understand the difference.

Brittany Lindsey Hearn Berlin

Shore should not be big tech’s dumping ground

$1,845.

Editor, Our recent letter exposed how the Globalinx/AWS project is exploiting Worcester County’s outdated property definitions. But this is no longer just a local zoning oversight: It is a regional vulnerability. As counties across Maryland aggressively pass data center freezes, Worcester County and others are directly in the crosshairs of becoming Big Tech's default dumping ground.

A wave of proactive resistance is sweeping other Counties in Maryland. Queen Anne’s County just enacted a 12-month data center moratorium, joining Baltimore, Howard, Carroll, Harford, and Prince George's counties in hitting the brakes. These jurisdictions recognize that their legacy comprehensive zoning plans are entirely blind to the catastrophic utility demands of hyperscale digital infrastructure.

However, these blockades create a dangerous squeeze. If neighboring counties shut their doors, predatory tech developers will naturally pivot to the paths of least resistance.

Counties without protective legislation will instantly face an onslaught of developers buying rural land parcels and exploiting legacy loopContinued on Page 91

JUNE 19, 2026

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Blood Bank of Delmarva declares shortage Organization makes urgent call for critical blood types as ‘trauma season’ begins (June 19, 2026) Blood Bank of Delmarva (BBD) has declared a blood emergency as supplies drop to less than a two-day supply overall and under one day for type O blood, the most critical blood type used in emergency care.

The shortage comes as summer’s “trauma season” begins, when hospitals typically see a rise in serious injuries, including car crashes and other emergencies requiring large volumes of blood.

The emergency follows a 10% decline in blood donations, leaving collections nearly 400 units short of what is needed to meet hospital demand.

“Summer is one of the most challenging times to maintain the blood supply,” said Kristin Frederick, vice president of operations at Blood Bank of Delmarva. “We’re seeing donations decline just as hospital demand rises.

When supplies fall this low, it becomes increasingly difficult to ensure blood is available for patients who need it most.”

A blood emergency means the available supply has dropped below the levels needed to meet routine and urgent patient needs. Unlike other medical supplies, blood cannot be manufactured and has a limited shelf life, meaning hospitals rely on a steady stream of donors to meet daily demand. For trauma centers, where patients may require large volumes of

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Continued from Page 90 holes. Today's passive, "reactive" permitting process allows corporations to negotiate clandestine zoning variances after buying land, entirely bypassing the public notice and hearing process.

We cannot afford to be the last unprotected territory in Maryland. A single hyperscale facility draws the power of a small town, risking skyhigh local ratepayer energy bills, drained water tables, and overloaded sewer capacities. Globalinx may be the only one today, but they are the first of many if their zoning permits are approved.

Our rural heritage and coastal ecosystems are not consolidation prizes for Big Tech.

Worcester County commissioners must act unanimously to implement immediate moratoriums. We must rewrite our comprehensive plans to dictate where these facilities belong before neighboring County bans push them into our backyards.

Assateague MD Coastal Community Coalition Berlin

blood within minutes, maintaining an adequate supply is critical.

At hospitals like Beebe Healthcare, clinicians see firsthand how quickly blood is needed in life-threatening situations.

“In trauma care, seconds matter, and so does access to blood,” said Paul Cowan, D.O., F.A.E.C.P., of Beebe’s emergency departments and Sussex County EMS medical director. “A single patient experiencing severe injuries from a car crash or other trauma can require dozens of units of blood, including prehospital blood administered by paramedics or blood transfused at the hospital. When the supply is this low, it puts added pressure on care teams and underscores just how essential blood donors are to saving lives.”

Stories like local blood recipient Pey-

ton Harter’s underscore how quickly blood is needed in traumatic emergencies. After a devastating accident with a school bus left her critically injured, Harter received lifesaving blood before arriving at the hospital.

“The most terrifying day of my life could have been so much worse without the pre-hospital blood program and the people who took the time to give such a precious gift,” said Amy Harter, Peyton’s mother. “Without the heroes who donated blood, my daughter’s outcome could have been very different. I urge you to be someone’s hero and donate blood. A little bit of your time could mean a lifetime for someone else.”

Cowan added, “Bringing whole blood to the field is the most transformative advancement in trauma care in Sussex County since the inception of

the EMS system in 1991. The ability to deliver blood directly to critically injured patients before they reach the hospital can mean the difference between life and death. During the summer months, the demand for blood increases significantly. Blood donation is the first and most vital link in this chain of survival.”

Blood Bank of Delmarva is asking all eligible donors, especially those with type O blood, to schedule an immediate appointment to donate. Following recent updates to FDA guidance, more people than ever may now be eligible to give.

Blood donors can donate every 56 days, and platelet donors can give up to twice per month. To view current eligibility guidelines or to make an appointment, visit delmarvablood.org or call 1-888-8-BLOOD-8.

Sports & Recreation

OC Today-Dispatch June 19, 2026

Page 92

www.octodaydispatch.com

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FISH IN OC

Pictured, from top left to bottom right, are the female prize-winning teams of the Tunashamed, Tuna Tamers, Reel Chaos, Damage Divas, Female Finatics and There’s Always One.

Tuna & Tiaras tournament attracts 72 boats (June 19, 2026) The 2026 Tuna & Tiaras ladies only tuna tournament attracted 72 boats competing for over $156,000 in prize money. The event supported the Women Supporting Women nonprofit.

The following includes all the results by division with team name, boat name, weight and prize money listed.

Single Heaviest Tuna Winner Take All (WTA) Tunashamed, See Legs, 73 pounds, $23,400 Single Heaviest Tuna 50/30/20 Split Tunashamed, See Legs, 73 pounds,

$12,150 Game ON Girls, Game on, 66.5 pounds, $7,290 Tuna Tamers, Spring Mix 2, 65 pounds, $4,860 Daily Single Heaviest Tuna Tunashamed, See Legs, 73 pounds, $6,210 Tuna Tamers, Spring Mix 2, 65 pounds, $6,210\ Small Boat Single Heaviest Tuna WTA Reel Chaos, Reel Chaos, 50.5 pounds, $4,050 Captains & Mates Heaviest Tuna WTA

Single

Tuna Tamers, Spring Mix 2, 65 pounds, $2,475 Women Supporting women Single Heaviest Tuna 50/50 Game ON Girls, Game On, 66.5 pounds, $2,475 Route 113 Boat Sales Outboard Single Heaviest Tuna Jackpot Reel Chaos, Reel Chaos, 50.5 pounds, $5,000 Stringer WTA Female Finactics, Finatic, 112 pounds, $17,100 Stringer Split

Female Finactics, Finatic, 112 pounds, $11,250 Godzilla Girls, Godzilla, 109.5 pounds, $6,750 Only Fins, Talking Trash, 107.5 pounds, $4,500 Daily Heaviest Tuna Stringer Female Finatics, Finatic, 112 pounds, $5,670 Damage Divas, Water Damage, 85 pounds, $2,835 Theres Always One, Hotline, 85 pounds, $2,835 Small Boat Stringer WTA Tattas & Tunas, Tide Runner, 91.5 pounds, $2,925

OC Today-Dispatch

JUNE 19, 2026

PAGE 93

Summer tennis clinics on tap for OP this summer (June 19, 2026) The weather is heating up, and so is the action at the Ocean Pines Racquet Center.

Train with one of the area’s top coaches at the Summer Tennis Clinic, led by Tina Tharp, Head Tennis Coach at West Chester University.

Improve your technique, footwork, strategy, and match play in a fun and competitive environment. Please note that this is an advanced clinic geared toward high school and collegiate players. The cost is $30 per session, with sessions offered in the morning (8:30 – 10 a.m.) and evening (5:30 – 7 p.m.) on the following dates: June 22, 24 July 6, 7, 28, 29 Aug. 3, 5, 10, 12, 17, 19 Bill Gilroy’s Beginner Tennis

classes will be offered June 16-18 and June 29-July 2 at the Ocean Pines Racquet Center. Classes begin at 9 a.m.

To register for either of these clinics, call 410-641-7228.

The Boys and Girls Outdoor Singles Tournament will take place July 11 & 12. This tournament is for ages 14 and under and is $75 per player.

Players will be scheduled for at least two matches but no more than four matches. Draws for the matches will be compass draws or round robins depending on the number of players in each event. Scoring will be based off 2 out of 3 short sets (sets to 4, tiebreak at 4-4) with a 7 point tiebreak in lieu of a third set. No ad Scoring will be permitted.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

ESA CONTEST PLANNED FOR SUNDAY The first Delmarva Eastern Surfing Association (ESA) contest of the season is planned for June 21. Location will be decided based on surf conditions, either in Ocean City or Assateague State Park. Check out the Delmarva ESA Facebook page for exact location and details. Final call will be based on wave reports. Participants can register online at https://liveheats.com/events/493365. Other summer contest dates include July 25 or 26; Aug. 22 or 23; Sept. 12-13; and Oct. 10-11, depending on wave conditions.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Worcester Preparatory School junior Danny Kirwan is pictured with his father, Dr. Greg Kirwan, at the annual C. Markland Kelly Memorial Foundation Banquet held June 5 at the United States Naval Academy, where Kirwan was recognized as one of seven finalists representing the Maryland Private School South Division.

Prep lax player honored as statewide award finalist (June 19, 2026) Worcester Preparatory School junior Danny Kirwan was recognized among Maryland's elite high school lacrosse players at the annual C. Markland Kelly Memorial Foundation Banquet held on June 5 at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis.

Kirwan was selected as one of just seven finalists representing the Maryland Private School South Division.

This honor recognizes the state's top high school lacrosse players for their outstanding achievements on the field.

A standout midfielder for Worcester Prep and Head Coach Drew Haugh, Kirwan led the Mallards to an impressive 11-game winning streak and an overall record of 11-1 during the 2026 season. He finished the year as the team's leading scorer with 56

goals and 25 assists, consistently demonstrating his ability to impact every aspect of the game.

Haugh, who has coached several of the nation's top players, including former Tewaaraton Award winners Pat Spencer and Logan Wisnauskas during their high school careers, has praised Kirwan's abilities and potential at the next level.

With one season remaining at Worcester Prep, Kirwan will enter his senior year as one of the state's premier lacrosse players and a strong candidate to earn finalist honors once again and compete for division player of the year recognition.

Following graduation, he is committed to continuing his academic and athletic career at the University of Delaware.

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OC Today-Dispatch

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