06/26/2026 OC Today-Dispatch

Caine Woods neighbors say speeding still a big problem

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(June 26, 2026) Caine Woods residents continue to have concerns over speeding on 142nd Street, despite contradicting data from the Ocean City Police Department (OCPD).

Last week, the department released the results of a recent speed study along the corridor, which showed less than 1% of the 31,874 vehicles recorded exceeded the posted 25-mph speed limit.

However, those in the Caine Woods neighborhood say they were surprised by the results.

“The concerned citizens appreciate the police and what they do,” said 142nd Street resident Mary Taylor. “But it's not solving the speeding problem.”

OCPD Deputy Communications Manager Ashley Miller said the department’s traffic safety unit used a covert speed box to conduct the study, which took place from June 3 at 2 p.m. through June 9 at 9 a.m. Throughout that period, the department recorded 31,874 vehicles along 142nd Street, with vehicles traveling at an average speed of 23 mph.

The study also revealed that 279 vehicles, or 0.88%, exceeded the speed limit, while 45 vehicles, or 0.14%, exceeded the speed limit by 16 mph or more. Motorists traveling at least 5 mph below the speed limit accounted for 9,857, or 30.92%, of the vehicles recorded.

“Residents in the Caine Woods community have expressed concerns for many years about speeding along 142nd Street,” Miller said in an email last week. “More recently, a motor vehicle collision involving a parked vehicle renewed some of those concerns. While there are certainly instances of speeding occurring in the area, the data collected during this study did not indicate a widespread speeding issue.”

Taylor, however, argued that speeding continues to be a problem,

particular during the early morning and early evening hours. She also said the traffic safety issues are compounded by the fact that 142nd Street is used as a shortcut for those entering and exiting Ocean City, and by those leaving the nearby Harpoon Hanna’s restaurant.

“My son parked in front of my house and it was totaled by a drunk driver …,” she said. “This is important to us, because my grandkids were small at the time, and he was about to put them in a car. It could’ve been deadly.”

Taylor said she believed speed to be a factor in many of the incidents that occurred along 142nd Street in recent years. And while the city has posted speed limit signs along the roadway, she said there are currently no other traffic-calming measures –like speed cameras – in place.

“If you have a weekend that’s popular, you have a lot of traffic coming from [Route] 54, and as soon as they turn that curve, that’s when they speed. It’s a straight path from there to Coastal Highway …,” she said. “It’s dangerous. You have people walking to the beach, kids on bikes, J-1 students walking. We’re concerned.”

She said neighbors of hers were so concerned, that they stood by the road one day wearing black clothes and pointing hairdryers at passing motorists. Their actions, she said, were an attempt to deter people from speeding.

“We want safety,” she said. “That’s all it’s about, before a life is taken or someone is hurt.”

Another 142nd Street resident, Dave Jerns, said he didn’t think the results of the speed study were “completely accurate.” However, he argued the issue wasn’t as severe as some people report.

“I don't think it’s as bad as some people say it is,” he said. “We get people speeding through there, but there’s not much we can do.”

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This stretch of 142nd Street in the Caine Woods neighborhood of Ocean City is drawing attention from residents and police due to consistent complaints about speeding and reckless driving.

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142nd Street a speeding hotspot

Continued from Page 3

Jerns said motorists coming from Route 54 into Ocean City use 142nd Street as a shortcut. However, he said there could be ways to slow down traffic coming through the neighborhood.

“One or two stop signs on 142nd would stop that cut-through,” he said.

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For her part, Miller said perception can vary from person to person, and that certain roadway characteristics can influence how people perceive speed.

“In this case, 142nd Street is a single-lane roadway with parked vehicles along portions of the street, which can sometimes make moving vehicles appear faster than they actually are,” she said. “At the same time, residents’ concerns are real and important to us. While the data collected did not indicate a statistically significant speeding issue, that does not diminish the concerns raised by those who live in the area.”

Miller said there are no plans to install additional traffic-calming measures along 142nd Street. However, she said OCPD will continue to maintain a law enforcement presence in the area and monitor traffic patterns.

“One of our goals is to ensure we address community concerns while using data to guide our traffic safety efforts,” she said.

Miller said this month’s speed study along 142nd Street is just one of many speed studies regularly conducted throughout town. Late last week, for example, OCPD released the results of a recent speed study along Bayshore Drive, which also showed less than 1% of the 17,894 vehicles recorded were speeding in the area.

“We found that sharing these studies publicly has encouraged residents in other areas of Town to voice their concerns and identify locations they believe may benefit from additional review,” Miller said. “This allows us to better identify community concerns and plan future studies, particularly in areas without an active neighborhood watch presence.”

Incumbents Elder, Purnell lose, Bertino likely out, too

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(June 26, 2026) Worcester County voters ousted two longtime county commissioners in Tuesday’s primary, while a third incumbent trailed in a race too close to call.

Commissioners Ted Elder and Diana Purnell lost their primary races, while Commissioner Chip Bertino trailed challenger Joe Schanno by 65 votes in District 5 at press time.

Winning incumbents were Commissioners Caryn Abbott and Eric Fiori, while Joe Mitrecic won a fourth uncontested term.

District 5 remained the only commissioner race headed to the Nov. 3 general election, where the Republican primary winner will face Democrat

Vicky Wallace.

The results signal a shakeup likely to alter the direction of a board dominated for the past four years by a conservative voting bloc.

Since the 2022 election, the board’s policies and budget trajectory have increasingly been shaped by a majority bloc of Elder, Bertino, Abbott, and Commissioner Jim Bunting, who did not seek reelection.

After the county adopted its $300 million budget on June 2, the board’s conservative majority drew public criticism for denying the school board’s full funding request.

Some of those commissioners, including Bertino, have pointed repeatedly to an ongoing embezzlement case involving a former school district administrator as a reason not to approve the amount requested.

Worcester County Public Schools ended up with an increase of $9 million instead of the $12 million it had sought, setting up the county’s public schools for a $3 million shortfall for the upcoming school year.

That approach to budgeting could change, with winning candidates having pledged during their campaigns to support school funding.

“We’re gonna get a lot done,” Mitrecic (District 7, Ocean City) said in an interview on the Rude Awakening Show early Wednesday on Ocean 98 Radio. As one of the longest-serving members, Mitrecic said he hopes to “start bringing them together and talking about things.”

The one race too close to call as of press time is the District 5 (Ocean Pines) Republican primary, where incumbent Chip Bertino trailed challenger Joe Schanno by 65 votes.

As of Thursday morning, Bertino had tallied 129 early votes and 202 Election Day votes, totaling 331. Schanno received 143 early votes and 253 Election Day votes, totaling 396.

Schanno in a statement said approximately 152 outstanding mail-in and provisional ballots had yet to be counted. However, OC Today-Dispatch was unable to confirm that figure with the Worcester County Board of Elections at press time.

In District 1, Abbott defeated challengers Laura Morrison and Shaun Shockley in the Republican primary. Abbott won with 55% of the vote versus Morrison’s 33% and Shockley’s 12%. With no general election challengers, Abbott will hold the Southern District seat for a second term.

In the District 2 race, challenger Roxie Dennis defeated three-term incumbent Diana Purnell, 62% to 38%. Theirs was the only Democratic primary race among the commissioners. With no general election challengers, Dennis wins the Central District seat.

In District 3, Fiori defeated challenger Tim vanVonno, 58% to 42%.

BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

A voter is pictured casting her vote at the Ocean Pines Community Center on Tuesday. The polling site was designated for District 6 voters. Lou Taylor won the primary for District 6 commissioner.

Primary election will decide all but one seat

Continued from Page 10

The race was a repeat of the 2022 election when Fiori narrowly defeated vanVonno and two other candidates. With no general election challengers, Fiori will hold his West Ocean City district seat for a second term.

In District 4, Elder lost the Republican primary in a three-way race. Berlin Councilman Steve Green took 50% of the vote, Elder got 30% of the vote and former commissioner Virgil Shockley got 20% of the vote. With no general election challengers, Green will take the Western District seat. Green is also an editor at this publication.

In District 6, candidate Lou Taylor, a former county school superintendent, defeated challenger Sherrie Clifford, a newspaper publisher. With no challengers on the Democratic side, Taylor won the Bishopville seat outright in the Republican primary, 69% to 31%.

Taylor will take over for Madison “Jim” Bunting, Jr., the board’s longestserving commissioner who first took office in 2010. Bunting opted not to run for a fifth term.

In other county races, voters returned Sheriff Matt Crisafulli to his post for a third term. Crisafulli won 86% of the Republican primary vote against challenger Jeff Buhrt in a rematch of the 2022 election. With no general election challengers, Crisafulli

will keep his job.

State’s Attorney Kristin Heiser, Clerk of Circuit Court Susan Braniecki, and Register of Wills Terri Delaney Westcott also won their uncontested GOP primaries and will keep their jobs.

The race for Judge of the Orphans’ Court was also too close to call at press time.

Mary Burgess and John Simms III led the Republican primary field after Tuesday’s votes were tallied, while incumbent Judge Cheryl Jacobs held the third spot. But challenger Lisa Mitchell was only 56 votes behind Jacobs in the unofficial county count.

Winners of the Orphans’ Court Republican primary will advance to the general election along with Democratic challenger Martin Radinsky. Voters will choose three judges to serve.

In state races, Maryland General Assembly incumbents Sen. Mary Beth Carozza (R-38) and Del. Wayne Hartman (R-38C) ran unopposed in their Republican primaries. Carozza will face Lino Cressotti (D) in the general and Hartman will face Laurie Anne Brittingham (D).

In the race for the House of Delegates 38A seat – a district that covers about a third of Worcester County –unopposed Democratic candidate Shelley Johnson will face Republican C.L. Marshall III, who defeated Tim

Howlett in their primary, 71% to 29%.

District 38A Del. Kevin Anderson opted not to run in the primary after having been appointed to the seat late last year to fill the remaining term of the late Del. Charles Otto, who died in October.

In the First District congressional race, incumbent Rep. Andy Harris defeated challenger Chris Bruneau in the Republican primary, 81% to 19%. On the Democratic side, Dan Schwartz took 45% of the vote to defeat challengers Randi White, Victor Allen Guidice, and George Walish. Schwartz will face Harris in the general election.

For governor, incumbent Gov. Wes

Moore defeated challenger Eric Felber with 82% of the vote in the Democratic primary.

Republican challenger Dan Cox –who lost to Moore in 2022 – defeated eight other candidates in his primary with 51% of the vote. Cox and running mate Rob Krop will face Moore and Lt. Gov. Aruna Miller in the general election.

In other state races, Comptroller Brooke Lierman (D) will face Sonya Dunn (R) in the general. Attorney General Anthony Brown (D) will face challenger James B. Rutledge III (R) in the general. All candidates in both races ran unopposed.

Town, DNR to evaluate dune grass replacement costs

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(June 26, 2026) Ocean City officials say they continue to assess the damage caused by last Saturday’s dune grass fire in Ocean City.

On June 20, two areas of the primary dune system near 116th Street were burned following a fireworks discharge on the beach. It is illegal to

possess or to discharge fireworks in Ocean City without a fireworks display permit from the office of the fire marshal.

With the help of Good Samaritans, the Ocean City Fire Department was able to douse the flames before they could spread to nearby properties. However, damage had been done to both the dune grasses and dune fencing, some of which was taken down by firefighters responding to the blaze, Public Works Deputy Director Woody Vickers said in an interview Tuesday. Now, the city is working with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which manages the dune system, to address any necessary repairs and replantings.

“The dune is maintained under a three-year maintenance contract with Ashton Manor Environmental. DNR will work with the town to have the responsible party's insurance pay for any replanting or other damages,” DNR Media Relations Manager Gregg Bortz said in an email Monday. “Wellestablished grasses should come back readily after a burn. Prescribed burns every few years are part of maintaining warm-season grass meadows.”

The state owns Ocean City’s dunes, which are maintained by Maryland DNR. In the winter and spring months, for example, the agency contracts with a company to complete numerous dune maintenance projects – including fence and crossover repairs, vegetation removal, and planting and fertilizing – ahead of the summer season. After Memorial Day, however, the city’s public works department is tasked with performing an minor maintenance required at dune crossings.

Because of the city’s working relationship with the state, Vickers said he had contacted Maryland DNR this week to inform them of the weekend

Route 50’s bridge tender marks 17 years on the job

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(June 26, 2026) In Ocean City, most drivers cross the Route 50 bridge in a matter of seconds. Angie Johnson has been here 17 years.

Johnson is a bridge tender on the Harry W. Kelley Memorial Bridge –the resort’s proverbial front door. From her post inside the control booth, she wields the awesome power to stop summer traffic in both directions.

But first, she has to make sure drivers, pedestrians, and boaters are clear of the path of the opening drawbridge.

“You have to look at everything. Everything,” she said. “You have to be observant of the people. The scooters, because they like to go through the bridge, too, when you have to open the bridge. They just keep on going, you know?

“I have to make sure everybody’s safe,” she added. “I take my job very seriously.”

Before this, Johnson was a cashier in a grocery store. She got the job in 2009 through a friend. Her first week on the board was nerve-wracking, but she got the hang of it after a week or so. Now, at age 60, Johnson helps train new bridge tenders who join the crew.

Six days a week in summertime, no matter the weather, she takes the bus from her home uptown and mans the bridge tender’s booth from daybreak to early afternoon.

The booth is cozy and has the feel of a ship’s wheelhouse. It has a cement floor and the faint odor of stale cigarettes. Its wraparound windows offer a 360-degree view of downtown Ocean City, West Ocean City, and Sinepuxent Bay.

See BRIDGE Page 14

OC responsible for fence work

Continued from Page 12

fire. Since then, he said the city and the state agency have been in correspondence.

“I’m having email correspondence with DNR because the area in question is the primary dune area. That’s off limits to us from DNR’s perspective,” he said. “I reached out to them yesterday, and they said they are asking the Forestry Service for their input.”

Bortz said the two damaged sections include a 35-by-65 foot area of dune and a 25-by-35 foot area of dune. He added that roughly 70 feet of sand fence will also need to be replaced.

For his part, Vickers said the cost of replacing the fence will be split between the city and Maryland DNR. However, any grass replantings will

be covered by the state agency.

“I think it will reestablish itself,” Vickers added.

Damaging the dunes in any way is a criminal offense, according to the city’s website. The Ocean City Fire Department added that dune grass not only holds sand in place, but it also helps preserve dunes that protect properties further inland.

“One firework can undo years of environmental growth and restoration efforts in just a matter of minutes,” OCFD said in a Facebook post Monday. “So yes, we will continue enforcing the law. We will continue confiscating illegal fireworks. And we will continue doing everything we can to protect the people, property, and natural resources that make Ocean City special.”

BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Route 50 Bridge tender Angie Johnson has been working on the drawbridge for 17 years. She said, “I have to make sure everybody’s safe.”

Bridge tender has unique job

From up here, Johnson gets to see pods of dolphins, schools of stingrays, and fiery sunsets. She’s witnessed waterspouts, hailstorms, and hurricanes. She still marvels at the time she watched a replica Spanish galleon squeeze through the draw span with inches to spare.

There are 15 more sets of eyes up here, too. State Highway Administration surveillance cameras cover the booth, inside and out, their feeds displayed on a bank of monitors hanging above the board.

There are creature comforts here for longer stays: a coffee maker, a microwave, a mini fridge. A flatscreen TV is showing The Price Is Right. Nearby, a narrow metal staircase leads to the restroom on the lower level and an exit to the mechanical underbelly of the bridge.

The booth is isolated, but never quiet. There’s the thunderous, rhythmic rumble you feel in your feet when trucks hurtle past. The hum of a computer server echoes up the staircase. When Johnson engages the draw span, a tinny alert bell goes ding! like an egg timer.

The radios mounted atop the control board sat quiet during a Tuesday visit, but they’re also part of the daily routine. Boaters call for openings and the bridge opens on a schedule during the summer. Some of the regular captains she knows by voice.

On this morning, no boat called, but Johnson volunteered to demonstrate the bridge sequence anyway, standing before a control board crowded with red and green indicators. She said the controls are unchanged since her first day, except for new button labels added after years of wear made the old ones unreadable.

When she starts the opening sequence, Johnson slips into the kind of

muscle memory that comes from having opened the bridge many thousands of times.

First, she turns the traffic light red. Then she lowers the gates, releases the brakes, and sounds two long horn blasts. Next, she maneuvers separate handles for the near and far sides of the draw span.

Lowering the bridge involves gingerly toeing a foot pedal to seat each side of the bridge span, one resting atop the other. In the dog days of July and August, she’ll drop the sides down with a little force to compensate for how the heat expands the metalwork.

The bridge was built 84 years ago. Even with significant renovations completed in recent years, sometimes it still malfunctions. When that happens, Johnson has to call police headquarters at 65th Street to let them know.

“Then, when the bridge is back operating again, sometimes I'll see people ride by real slow right where that window is – and then they'll flip me off! I'm like, ‘Thank you, have a good day!’” she said, breaking into a delighted, staccato laugh.

In peak season, especially on the Fourth of July, thousands of tourists cross the narrow sidewalk on a bridge that spans nearly 3,000 feet from end to end.

But the sidewalk isn’t all concrete. Pedestrians occasionally freeze when they reach the center grate, a stretch of see-through steel that can make the water below suddenly feel way, way too close.

Johnson understands the hesitation. She also has to clear the span before the bridge can rise. So, she takes her radio, steps outside and talks them across.

“Come on,” she tells them. “I’ll walk you.”

BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

When it comes time to open the drawbridge, tenders like Angie Johnson follows a sequence that involves many steps, each geared around safety.

BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

In the event of a drawbridge malfunction, the bridge tender’s first obligation is to alert the Ocean City Police Department followed by the State Highway Administration.

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Planning Comm. opposed to E-1 elimination

District should not expand, but officials opposed to idea of axing it altogether

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(June 26, 2026) Worcester County planning officials have backed away from a proposal to eliminate the county’s E-1 Estate District zoning after residents expressed concerns that it could open the door to more intense development in rural residential areas.

Planning Commission members voted June 11 to support language in the county’s draft comprehensive plan saying that E-1 zoning should not be expanded, but also should not be eliminated.

Changing E-1 land to R-1 Residential would allow for greater density, board members noted, increasing the potential density from one unit per two acres, to one unit per acre.

County Planning Director Jen Keener said public comments on the issue “came in hot and heavy with concerns about eliminating the E-1 district.”

The E-1 district allows residential development, but Keener said it also has a strong agricultural component. County code places agricultural uses

ahead of residential uses in the district.

The district applies to several parts of the county, including South Point, an area near Bishopville, and a small portion of Public Landing.

“It’s kind of an amalgamation of residential and agricultural was the intention for the E-1 district,” Keener said.

The county’s draft comprehensive plan had recommended eliminating the district – which would have required county officials to then figure out what kind of zoning should replace it, whether residential or agricultural, Keener said.

zoning, then many South Point homeowners would see their property converted either to residential or agricultural zoning. Under the new zoning, future property owners could have the option to build more densely.

‘It just upsets me. That is poor planning at its worst, so may we never go down that path.’

Commission member Phyllis Wimbrow

She said the South Point area, extending from Assateague Road south to the end of the peninsula, contains one of the county’s largest concentrations of E-1 zoning.

The proposal drew particular concern from South Point residents. The South Point Association, a civic group representing about 325 households, has formally opposed eliminating the district.

If the county did away with its E-1

“Our community looks and feels more like a nature preserve than a residential neighborhood,” association president Michael LeCompte wrote in an April 10 letter to county officials. “We moved here because the low residential density creates the type of nature-filled, rural community in which we wanted to live.”

At the meeting, planning commissioner Alec French asked why the county was considering eliminating the district, noting that some environmental advocacy groups had opposed phasing out large-lot zoning.

“Why? Why this push to get rid of E-1?” French asked.

Commission member Phyllis Wimbrow, who was on the board when the E-1 district was created in 1992, replied that the designation was originally intended to prevent sprawl.

However, E-1 ultimately didn’t work as intended, Wimbrow added. She said large-lot zoning can spread homes across rural expanses, instead of clustering development and preserving open space.

“What would you rather have: 20,000-square-foot lots on 100 acres with 80 acres preserved as open space? Or 50 two-acre lots spread over that 100 acres?” Wimbrow said. “Which is more conducive to sprawl? We tried to get rid of it.”

Wimbrow also pointed to rural parts of Delaware, where former farmland has been converted into residential subdivisions that require additional public services.

“It just upsets me,” she said. “That is poor planning at its worst, so may we never go down that path.”

The planning board’s discussion was not the final decision on the county’s revised comprehensive plan, but a chance to settle the language before the public hearing, according to Keener.

A public hearing on the draft comprehensive plan is scheduled for the planning commission on July 9. After that, the plan will go to the Worcester County Commissioners for their own public hearing. Keener said a new comprehensive plan is expected to be approved by this fall.

Illegal fireworks start dune fire, investigation continues

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(June 26, 2026) The Ocean City Fire Department and Fire Marshal’s Office continue to comb through photos and video footage to find the person responsible for setting off illegal fireworks and starting a dune grass fire that spread across multiple ocean blocks last Saturday.

On June 20, at approximately 9:21 p.m., Ocean City firefighters were dispatched to the area of 116th Street for a large dune and grass fire caused by fireworks. Within a span of minutes, Ocean City Communications had received more than 60 calls reporting the incident.

Witness Scott Habicht said the fire

PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTT HABICHT

A dune and grass fire sparked last Saturday night at the area of 116th Street when someone shot off illegal fireworks. Officials are still looking for those involved.

Two airlifted to Baltimore after separate accidents

Pedestrian, cyclist sent to Shock Trauma following collisions with car, bus

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(June 26, 2026) One pedestrian and one cyclist were airlifted to a Baltimore hospital following a pair of collisions in Ocean City over the weekend.

On Saturday, June 20, at around 10:26 p.m., the Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) responded to the area of Convention Center Drive for a motor vehicle collision involving a pedestrian.

An investigation into the accident revealed the pedestrian was walking east in the crosswalk in the southbound lanes of Coastal Highway at Convention Center Drive, against the upraised hand signal, at the time of the collision, OCPD Deputy Communications Manager Ashley Miller said in an email Monday. The striking vehicle remained on scene.

The pedestrian was treated on the scene by Ocean City EMS before being flown to Shock Trauma

in Baltimore by the Maryland State Police Aviation Unit, Miller said.

The pedestrian is currently in stable condition.

As a result of the accident, southbound Coastal Highway was partially shut down for roughly two-and-a-half hours to allow OCPD’s Traffic Safety Unit to conduct the investigation, which remains ongoing this week.

The following evening, at around 11:21 p.m., the OCPD responded to the area of 42nd Street for another motor vehicle collision, this time involving a city bus and ebike.

During the investigation, officers learned that as the city bus was slowing to a stop at the 42nd Street bus stop, when the e-bike rider collided with the rear of the bus, sustaining serious injuries.

The e-bike rider was flown to Shock Trauma by the Maryland State Police Aviation Unit with serious injuries. As of Monday, the rider was listed in critical condition. Northbound Coastal Highway was partially closed for approximately two hours as the investigation continued.

Officials looking into dune fire

Continued from Page 18

was caused by someone setting off fireworks, which sparked a fire when one discharged low to the ground. Roughly five to 10 small fires quickly combined into two large fires across two dunes, he said.

“The local residents quickly responded by throwing sand on the fire and a (very) small bucket brigade combined with an individual OCPD member to quell the fire within 10-15 min.,” he wrote in an email.

Upon arrival, firefighters encountered a rapidly spreading fire involving a significant portion of the dunes, the fire department community engagement officer Ryan Whittington said. Crews quickly deployed and were able to extinguish the blaze before it spread further or threatened nearby properties and visitors.

“There were people out there with shovels and getting water,” Whittington said. “They knew the threat of fire growth was significant, and they were doing anything to contain it. And it did help.”

Following Saturday’s fire, the Ocean City Fire Department and Office of the Fire Marshal sought the public’s assistance in identifying the culprit. As of Monday, Whittington said investigators with the fire marshal’s office were reviewing numerous videos and photos that were

submitted.

“There’s significant video footage and photos that are helping us nail down the person responsible,” he said.

Whittington said the incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of setting off fireworks, which are illegal in all of Maryland, including Ocean City. The message comes as the city prepares for next weekend’s Fourth of July festivities.

“We get called the ‘no-fun police’ because we’re actively doing enforcement,” he said. “The reality is that we will confiscate your fireworks, we will write you citations, and the reason is to protect our ecosystem, and protect our property. That’s part of our job.”

The OCFD and fire marshal’s office report the fire destroyed a significant area of dune grass between 116th and 117th streets. Anyone who witnessed the incident, has information, photographs, or video footage is asked to contact Investigator David Marquez with the Ocean City Fire Department, Office of the Fire Marshal, at dmarquez@oceancitymd.gov.

“Dune grass plays a critical role in protecting our coastline from erosion and storm impacts,” the OCFD said on Facebook. “We appreciate the community's assistance as this investigation continues.”

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Takeover investigation results in drug arrest

(June 26, 2026) An investigation into the possibility of a planned takeover event in Ocean City led to a drug distribution arrest, the Ocean City Police Department reported this week.

On June 17, 2026 the Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) Special Enforcement Unit received information from the Baltimore City Police Department regarding the promotion of a “Late Night Beach Party Link Up,” a term commonly associated with takeover-style events organized and promoted through social media. The event was scheduled to occur in Ocean City on June 18.

Through the investigation, detectives found that the social media accounts promoting the event belonged to people who had been identified on June 16, when OCPD Special Enforcement Unit detectives and Worcester

County Criminal Enforcement Team (CET) detectives assisted the Maryland State Apprehension Team and U.S. Marshals Service with the apprehension of a wanted individual in downtown Ocean City.

During that June 16 operation, a 21year-old woman from Frederick, Maryland, was taken into custody on an outstanding warrant related to a home invasion investigation. Detectives also identified two male associates, ages 18 and 20, and a 24-year-old female associate, all from Baltimore, Maryland, as individuals promoting several upcoming takeover-style events in Ocean City.

As investigators continued developing information with allied law enforcement agencies, they learned one of the identified individuals, Mehkai Leonard Tindal, 20, of Baltimore, Maryland, was also using social media

to advertise the illegal sale of controlled dangerous substances (CDS) within Ocean City.

Based on prior law enforcement interactions and physical surveillance, detectives identified the vehicle Tindal was operating and the location where he was staying near 19th Street and Philadelphia Avenue.

On June 18, 2026, narcotics detectives assigned to the Worcester County Criminal Enforcement Team, working in coordination with OCPD Special Enforcement Unit detectives, arranged an undercover purchase of CDS from Tindal in the area of 16th Street and Philadelphia Avenue.

on a $5,000 bond.

Following the arrest, the Ocean City Police Department emphasized the importance of strong partnerships with allied law enforcement agencies, proactive information sharing, and close monitoring of social media platforms as agencies continue to respond to the growing national trend of social mediadriven “takeover” style events.

“Public safety increasingly requires a proactive approach,” said Chief Ray Austin. “Working closely with our law enforcement partners, sharing information, and monitoring emerging activity on social media allows us to identify potential issues early and take action before they impact our community.”

Detectives successfully completed the controlled purchase and subsequently conducted a traffic stop, taking Tindal into custody without incident.

During the investigation, detectives executed search warrants at the motel near 19th Street and recovered additional controlled dangerous substances and distribution-related materials. Detectives also seized a vehicle pending forfeiture proceedings.

Tindal was charged with the distribution of a controlled dangerous substance. He was seen by a Maryland District Court Commissioner and held

The Ocean City Police Department says it remains prepared and proactive in addressing criminal activity and citizen concerns to ensure the continued safety of our residents and visitors. As social media-driven takeover-style events continue to emerge nationally, OCPD encourages community members to report suspicious activity, including social media content promoting large gatherings, dangerous activity, or potential criminal behavior within Ocean City.

“If you see something concerning, we encourage you to say something,” a news release reads. “Community part-

Tindal

Driving while on shrooms?

A Pennsylvania woman is facing charges after police surmised she likely consumed magic mushrooms while driving.

On June 18, around 1 a.m., Ocean City police officers on a crime suppression detail came up on the driver of a silver 2025 Ford Bronco having to reposition her vehicle multiple times while backing out of a parking space on 6th Street.

After leaving the spot, police followed the vehicle on Baltimore Avenue, noting it was drifting over the centerline before suddenly turning into a parking lot on 8th Street. The vehicle failed to enter a marked spot but did park.

Police initiated a traffic stop and the motorist, identified as Summer Christman, 27, of Glenmoore, Pa., began to reverse toward the patrol car before eventually stopping. The motorist’s condition appeared to be impaired, and Christman admitted to having alcoholic drinks and smoking cannabis. Christman’s breath specimen was not beyond the legal limit, but the officer suspected she was under the influence of something.

A search of the vehicle located a

bag containing psilocybin, a Schedule I controlled dangerous psychedelic substance known for altering the minds.

Christman is charged with the possession of a controlled dangerous substance-not cannabis, driving a vehicle while impaired by a controlled dangerous substance and traffic offenses.

Median urinating, drugs

A New York man, later found with drugs, got the attention of the police initially for standing in the median of Coastal Highway urinating in the middle of the night.

Around 3 a.m. on June 20, Ocean City police was on uniform patrol around 73rd Street when a male, later confirmed to be Daniel Dawidczyk, 33, of Brooklyn, was seen running east across Coastal Highway and nearly fell in the road. The officer was turning around to check on his safety when he saw Dawidczyk standing in the traffic median urinating on the travel lane.

While being processed at the police station for indecent exposure, a search of Dawidczyk found several controlled dangerous substances in

his wallet. Police recognized the items as Lysergic Acid Diethylamide, a Schedule I CDS. Police also located a small metal spoon scoop used to ingest cocaine.

Charges filed against Dawidczyk include indecent exposure, three counts of possession of a controlled dangerous substance (CDS) and possession of CDS paraphernalia.

Three charged with theft

Three Delaware men have been charged with burglary and theft for breaking into an apartment and stealing belongings.

On June 21, around 2 in the morning, Ocean City police responded to an apartment building on 7th Street to investigate a reported theft that had occurred.

Two women told police three black males, later identified as Treyvon Mc-

Cray, 25, Yahcere Fletcher, 20, and Caeser Gilbert, 22, each of Dover, were found in their apartment without their permission. When one of the occupants screamed, the three men vacated the premises in different directions. One of the victims took a video of one of the suspects heading toward the Boardwalk.

It was determined one of the occupants had taken a cell phone, which was able to be tracked to the park at 3rd Street. A pair of Balenciaga shoes, valued at $1,200, was also stolen from the apartment.

After a broadcast of the suspects was distributed to other officers, the three men were quickly picked up around 1st Street.

Each of the suspects is charged with first-degree burglary, two counts of fourth-degree burglary, theft $100 to under $1,500 and theft scheme, $1,500 to under $25,000.

Police monitoring possible rowdy event ahead of July 4

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(June 26, 2026) The Ocean City Police Department continues to monitor the possibility of a beach takeover event on July 4.

In the days leading up to last year’s Independence Day celebrations, the Ocean City Police Department became aware of a pop-up gathering being organized on social media platforms.

However, it appeared city officials underestimated the crowds that would turn out, as throughout the weekend videos circulating on social media showed hundreds of participants crowding the streets and gathering on the beach and large groups jumping on cars.

In the days that followed, city leaders condemned the behaviors associated

with the unsanctioned events and vowed to strengthen the city’s planning and response moving forward. And in the year since, the Ocean City Police Department has been monitoring social media accounts from promoters, who have posted videos and AI-generated flyers about a beach takeover in Ocean City next Saturday.

“The Ocean City Police Department is closely monitoring social media regarding the upcoming holiday weekend,” OCPD Deputy Communications Manager Ashley Miller said in an email Tuesday.

“Over the past year, several social media promoters have posted on platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, promoting a beach takeover or, more recently, a ‘beach party’ for July 4th. They are primarily looking to host the event in the 33rd Street area, similar to last year.”

Miller said the department will have a full complement of officers on duty and will be joined by personnel from allied law enforcement agencies, including the Maryland State Police, the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

She said officers, deputies and troopers will be on hand to address large crowds and traffic anticipated for the two fireworks displays in town, as well as handle calls for service and pop-up events.

“Over the past few months, through the police department monitoring and citizen reports, we have received multiple takeover flyers for events throughout the spring and summer,” she said. “So far, we have not seen any of them become unmanageable, and a few have never occurred. When we receive these tips, we review the social media accounts and ensure that law enforcement personnel are in the area at the time of the event.”

In addition to the pop-up event, the police department is also preparing for the fireworks displays, which will be held both uptown at Northside Park and downtown at North Division Street. In the coming days, the police department will announce changes to both traffic plans and transportation arrangements, which Miller said will combat the gridlock that occurs after the fireworks finish.

nerships play a critical role in maintaining public safety.”

Citizens who observe suspicious activity or have information regarding possible criminal activity in Ocean City are encouraged to contact OCPD’s tip line at 410-520-5136, email crimetips@oceancitymd.gov, or contact the Ocean City Police Department directly at 410-723-6610.

‘Children at play’ signs eyed for Berlin’s Flower St. area

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(June 26, 2026) The Town of Berlin will install a few “Slow, Children at Play” signs along Flower Street over the next few weeks to improve public safety after a resident said the neighborhood has become increasingly popular with young families.

During public comments at Monday’s Berlin Town Council meeting, resident Helen Lockwood urged the municipality to consider placing signs on Flower Street to encourage drivers to reduce their speed.

“Since [Cannery Village] is there and with younger families moving in, we have so many children who play on the sidewalk and in the street,” Lockwood said. “Even though we have signs up, everybody in Berlin knows they can speed through.”

Lockwood said children in the area frequently ride bicycles, play tag, and cross the street while playing outside.

“I just think signs like that that aren’t going to break the budget will be helpful to people coming through,” she said.

Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall asked Public Works Director Jimmy Charles whether the town could install any signage to address the concern.

Charles said his understanding is that “Slow, Children at Play” signs are not en-

forceable traffic-control measures and serve only as a warning to motorists.

“It’s more like a suggestion,” Charles said. “They can’t do anything with that sign.”

Police Chief Howard Drewer said he would not oppose the signs as long as residents understood they would not create additional penalties for drivers.

Council member Shaneka Nichols said the goal was not necessarily to create a new traffic violation but to make drivers more aware of children in the area.

“I don’t think [Lockwood] is looking for it to be an additional enforceable sign,” Nichols said. “At least make people look and go, ‘Oh, slow down, there are children around here.’”

Tyndall asked Lockwood to identify property owners who might be willing to have signs installed nearby, noting that not every resident may want signage placed near their yard.

Charles said the town would investigate the ask and noted the initiative might take a few weeks as the public works team does not have the requested signage immediately on hand.

“We will look at maybe putting two to three signs,” he said. “... It’s going to take me a week or two because I’ll have to order signs … just letting you know, it won’t be tomorrow.”

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Nonprofit recipients of the 2026 Community Foundation Women’s Fund grants received a combined $65,000 to support the needs of women and girls in Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester counties.

CFES awards $65K in local grants

(June 26, 2026) The Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore’s Women’s Fund recently awarded $65,000 to nonprofits serving Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester counties.

These grants support programs which address the unmet needs of women and girls to create positive change in their lives.

The Women’s Fund is a giving circle at the Community Foundation which allows members to have a team-approach to philanthropy and charitable networking.

The 2026 Community Foundation Women’s Fund grant recipients are:

Art League of Ocean City will hold a month-long Women’s Art Exhibition in October 2026 that will include an artist

talk/lecture, a hands-on workshop, and a women’s cultural cookbook project.

Big Brothers Big Sisters will launch “Social Sync”, a square dancing and mentorship program designed to help girls facing adversity rebuild their social resilience and interpersonal confidence.

Chesapeake Housing Mission will coordinate three projects that will pair female clients with all female volunteer teams to build wheelchair ramps for underserved residents with limited mobility.

Diakonia will host “Reclaim Your Power: A Women’s Empowerment Retreat in Recovery”, a one-day trauma informed empowerment initiative for women rebuilding their lives after substance abuse and mental health challenges.

Epoch Dream Center will launch a weekly girls empowerment group for second and third grade girls as part of Epoch’s summer youth program.

Girl Scouts of the Chesapeake Bay will train volunteers from Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester County at GSCB’s Annual Volunteer Leadership Summit.

Heal the City of Salisbury - Noah’s Maternity Hope Cottage will purchase children’s furniture, educational materials, diapers, and infant clothes, for the development of a maternity home in Salisbury.

Healing Forward Foundation will provide the Women’s Stabilization & Support program, which assists women in crisis by providing housing support, essential needs, materials, and support services.

Inspire One will expand the “I am TEA” (talented, empowered, ambitious) girls program serving ages 12-18 and teaching workforce readiness, confidence, and leadership skills.

University of Maryland Eastern Shore will assist the “Little Leaders, Future Healers” afterschool program serving k-12 girls, teaching leadership and introduction to healthcare fields.

University of Maryland Eastern Shore will support the WORTH (Women of Respect, Tact, and Honor) group with a hygiene drive, canned goods and clothing giveaway, and bonding events.

Village of Hope will provide afterschool academic support and summer camp for school aged children in the Steps to Success transitional living program.

Worcester County Child Advocacy Center will create an Emergency Stabilization and Transportation Assistance program for mothers and girls impacted by child abuse.

Worcester County GOLD will add items to GOLDs VAULT (Vast Amounts of Useful Little Things) to meet basic needs of low-income Worcester County residents.

Worcester County Judy Center will develop a Women’s Wellness and Support Group where mothers can participate in guided discussions, workshops, and activities focused on personal growth and support.

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Berlin officials state July 8 as ‘Tindley Day’

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(June 26, 2026) The Town of Berlin officially recognized one of its most influential natives this week, proclaiming July 7 as Rev. Dr. Charles Albert Tindley Day in honor of the African American gospel music pioneer, preacher, and civil rights activist born in Berlin in 1851.

Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall read the proclamation during Monday night’s Town Council meeting surrounded by the native religious leader’s relatives and supporters. Tyndall highlighted Tindley’s journey from humble beginnings to national importance.

“Though born free, Dr. Tindley experienced the hardships of labor and poverty, yet through perseverance, selfeducation, and unwavering faith, he overcame barriers to become a pioneering voice,” Tyndall read.

The proclamation noted that Tindley, the son of an enslaved father and a free mother, became one of America’s most influential preachers, hymn writers, and community leaders. His ministry in Philadelphia inspired thousands through sermons, music and advocacy for social justice and education.

Under the proclamation, July 7 of each year will be recognized as Rev. Dr. Charles Albert Tindley Day in Berlin “in honor of his life, his contributions of faith and music, and his lasting impact on the world and Berlin,” the mayor said.

According to Beach to Bay Heritage Area Executive Director Lisa Challenger, who facilitated the proclamation, the recognition was devised from a conversation held at the annual Tindley Festival in April.

“I only helped facilitate this, but this all came about at the Tindley Festival in April when Gregory Purnell suggested this,” Challenger said. “I’m just the middleman.”

Purnell praised the municipality’s decision and reflected on Berlin’s history. He noted that in the past, the town was less than favorable to non-white citizens, but this week’s recognition is just one example of Berlin's progress in social justice issues.

“Today the Town of Berlin has made a colossal leap, a giant step,” he said. “I’m old enough to remember when it was a sundown town. But now I’m able to stand here today because Berlin is a rising sun town.”

Purnell said the proclamation ensures Tindley’s contributions will not be forgotten.

“We’re taking this step for Berlin to ever remember the contributions of Tindley,” he said. “We are here today to witness this. It is extraordinary. I thank the mayor and council for doing this proclamation.”

According to the Beach to Bay Heritage Area website, Tindley is considered

one of Worcester County’s most famous native sons and is widely known as the “Grandfather of Gospel Music.” Through determination, Tindley educated himself in all aspects of the ministry despite poverty and limited opportunities.

Additionally, Tindley’s musical legacy endures. His composition “I’ll Overcome Someday” is credited as the foundation for the Civil Rights anthem “We Shall Overcome,” while another of his songs, “Stand By Me,” later became associated with the famous recording by Ben E. King. Five of Tindley’s hymns continue

CROSSWORD

to appear in Methodist hymnals used around the world.

Tindley also founded one of the largest Methodist congregations serving the African American community on the East Coast. Philadelphia’s Tindley Temple United Methodist Church bears his name, and he is often remembered as the “Prince of Preachers.”

The proclamation comes as Berlin continues efforts to celebrate Tindley’s legacy. Other projects include the mural honoring him that was completed on the Bruder Hill Building at 25 Commerce Street in downtown Berlin in 2022.

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, physical activity can boost your mood and clear your mind for some big decisions that are ahead this week. Tackle some larger projects.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Indulge in simple pleasures this week, Taurus. They will lead you to the happiness you deserve. You may discover a new favorite recipe or cozy nook to hang out.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Networking may feel less like a chore and more like a party this week, Gemini. A chance encounter could open a door to an excellent opportunity.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, right now your home is filled with laughter and shared memories. It’s a great week to host a small gathering or a movie night with close friends to share all the good vibes.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, today you are a beacon of light and a source of inspiration. Use your unique position as a leader to spread positivity and watch good fortune multiply.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, you are often a master of finding practical solutions to tricky problems both at work and at home. Your reliable nature is a great gift to those around you.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, some diplomacy this week can help you navigate a complex situation with ease. Find moments for mindful meditation so you can create a calm atmosphere wherever you go.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

If you are brave enough to voice it, a secret wish just might come true, Scorpio. After some difficult days, you can use a bit of magic and mystery to change your perspective.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

You’re definitely a glass-half-full kind of person, Sagittarius. This optimism will open doors to a new horizon. A sudden urge to learn something new leads to an opportunity.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Discipline will be rewarded with a measurable success that can feel very uplifting, Capricorn. Your hard work is finally getting the recognition it deserves.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Be your most authentic self this week and watch how it attracts those you want in your circle, Aquarius. A weird coincidence may lead to a funny situation.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, calmer waters ahead allow you to reflect on yourself and recharge your emotional batteries. You may emerge at the end of the week centered and ready for anything.

Fox photo captures contest victory

(June 26, 2026) After weeks of submissions, public voting, and spirited competition among some of the area’s most talented photographers, OceanCity.com has announced the winner of its “Best of Ocean City” 2026 Photo Contest.

The winning photograph, “Foxes at Sunset Park” by Nathan Van Dyke, earned 25.2% of the final vote, securing its place as the official background image for all 2026 Best of Ocean City awards.

The photo stood out among a field of exceptional finalists that showcased the natural beauty, wildlife, beaches, sunsets, and iconic scenery that make Ocean City, Maryland such a special place.

The Final Voting Results:

1. Foxes at Sunset Park – 25.2%

2. Shell and Sun – 18.4%

3. Dog with Sunset – 14.7%

4. Marsh – 13.4%

5. Dramatic Moon – 7.1%

6. Dramatic Sunrise with Pier – 6.4%

7. Ponies with Ocean City in the Background – 5.1%

8. Flying Seagulls – 4.0%

9. Heart at Seacrets – 3.5%

10. Northside Park 2 – 2.2%

The contest attracted strong participation throughout its multi-round format, beginning with open submissions from Ocean City photographers with all experiences levels across the region and

culminating in a public vote that generated enthusiastic engagement from Ocean City residents, visitors, and fans.

Van Dyke captured the image last summer in the dunes at Sunset Park, documenting an encounter with a pair of foxes against one of Ocean City’s most picturesque waterfront settings.

“The response to this year’s contest was incredible,” said Ann McGinnis Hillyer, CEO of OceanCity.com.

As the grand prize winner, Nathan Van Dyke’s ‘Foxes at Sunset Park’ will be featured as the official background image on all the website’s 2026 Best of Ocean City winner awards.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Nathan Van Dyke’s photograph, “Foxes at Sunset Park,” was named by OceanCity.com as this year’s photo contest winner. The picture was captured last summer at Sunset Park.

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SU, Wor-Wic ink transfer initiative

(June 26, 2026) Two of the Eastern Shore’s preeminent higher education institutions are partnering in a new way to provide more educational opportunities than ever for students in Wicomico, Worcester, and Somerset counties.

SU President Carolyn Ringer Lepre joined Wor-Wic President Deborah Casey in signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to create “Wor-Wic to SU,” a wide-ranging program articulation agreement through the Maryland Transfer Intensive. Starting this fall, the initiative will help ensure a smooth transition for students transferring from the community college to the university in more than 20 academic areas.

“For decades, students have begun their academic journeys at Wor-Wic Community College before continuing at Salisbury University, making transfer students an important and valued part of our campus community,” said Lepre. “This partnership builds on our long-standing relationship and shared commitment to student success by creating even more seamless pathways for students to transfer credits, stay on track toward graduation, and achieve their educational goals.”

“When Wor Wic students complete their associate degree and transfer to SU as juniors, they are positioned for greater access, stronger academic success and meaningful career opportunities,” said Casey. “This partnership between our sister institutions reinforces our shared com-

mitment to student achievement and helps build the skilled workforce our region needs to thrive. This collaboration not only empowers students but also strengthens the local workforce that depends on well prepared, homegrown talent.”

The partnership is part of the Maryland Transfer Intensive, a multiyear initiative of the Maryland Higher Education Commission and Aspen Institute College Excellence Program designed to significantly improve community college transfer outcomes. While 55% of Maryland community college students are in transfer programs, only 23% transfer to a Maryland four-year institution within six years. Fewer than half complete a bachelor’s degree within three years of enrollment.

“The Maryland Transfer Intensive’s goal is to offer an affordable pathway for community college students and graduates to earn their bachelor’s degrees at Maryland universities,” said Allen Koehler, SU associate vice president for enrollment management. “Our goal at SU is to make sure Wor-Wic students can do that without leaving the area they call home. We know students who transfer to SU with their associate’s degree earn a higher GPA and graduate at a higher rate, so we want students to earn their degree from Wor-Wic and then earn their bachelor’s degree from SU.”

“At Wor-Wic, our focus is always on removing barriers and providing the holistic support students need to achieve

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their goals,” said Dr. Michael Hutmaker, vice president for student affairs at WorWic. “By expanding these pathways with Salisbury University, we are ensuring our students have a direct, clear roadmap to their bachelor's degrees. This partnership allows them to transition smoothly after earning their associate degree and build upon the confidence that their hard work at the community college level will seamlessly carry them through to graduation at SU.”

SU and Wor-Wic will maintain its current articulation agreements in engineering, with new or continuing agreements for computer science, mathematics, biology, chemistry, business, psychology, interdisciplinary studies, and secondary education programs in chemistry, mathematics, biology, earth science, physics, and history. Future programs that could be added to the agreement include forensic science, data science, criminal justice, nursing, early childhood education, and secondary education programs in English, Spanish, and French.

SU and Wor-Wic officials hope the partnership will be beneficial for local and regional employers. According to the Community College Research Center at Teachers College, Columbia University, and the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, 88% of community college students stay in their states after they graduate, working and contributing to the local economy.

Who’s Where When

BLU CRABHOUSE / DISTRICT 24

410-289-3322

24th Street Bayside

Fri., June 26: Adam McDonough

Sat., June 27: Dyland Canfield

BURLEY OAK BREWING COMPANY

443-513-4647

10016 Old Ocean City Blvd., Berlin

Sun., June 28: TBA

CARIBBEAN POOL BAR

410-289-6181

In The Plim Plaza Hotel

109 N. Atlantic Ave.

Fri., June 26: Mike & Eric & Permilla Project

Sat., June 27: Endless Ember & Marlin City Madmen

Sun., June 28: Lime Green & Jason Lee

Mon., June 29: DJ Series & Ryan Jackson

Tues., June 30: Reform School & Dust N Bones

Wed., July 1: Neon Creek & True Country (Solo)

Thurs., July 2: Johnny Cardo & Boogiemen

BUXY’S SALTY DOG & DRY DOCK 28

410-289-BUXY

28th Street Coastal Hwy.

Sat., June 27: Full Circle

Sundays: Pittsburgh Dad & Locals Night w/ DJ Deogee

Wednesdays: Karaoke w/ DJ Nick Hundley

CAPTAIN’S TABLE

410-289-7192

15th & Boardwalk

In The Courtyard Marriott

Fridays & Saturdays: Phil Perdue

COCONUTS BEACH BAR

410-289-6846

Oceanfront At Castle

In The Sand Hotel

37th & 38th Streets

Fri., June 26: Darin Engh & The Castaway Band

Sat., June 27: Matt Sanders & Chris Diller Band

Sun., June 28: Honey Du & Monkee Paw

Mon., June 29: Sean Loomis & The Rogue Citizens

Tues., June 30: The Jamn Brothers & Jess Arms

Wed., July 1: Chris Diller Duo & The Dunehounds

Thurs., July 2: Kevin Poole Solo & DJ Wax

COINS PUB

410-289-3100

28th Street Plaza On Coastal Hwy.

Fri, June 26: Cup Of Joe

Sat., June 27: Jim Long & The Rockoholics

Sundays: DJ Wax

Tues., June 30: Sketchbook

CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE

302-988-5000

37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54, Selbyville, DE

Fri., June 26:

Deviation By Design Duo

Sun., June 28: Dawn Williams

Tues., June 30: C-Miller

FAGER’S ISLAND

410-524-5500

60th St., In The Bay

Fri., June 26: Kittyback, DJ RobCee & Shake The Room

Sat., June 27: Other Brother Darryl, DJ Dnial & Shake The Room

Sun., June 28: Sons Of Pirates

Best Beats On The Beach

BOOGIEMEN

The Wedge: Tuesday, June 30

Caribbean Pool Bar: Thursday, July 2

STRATUS FEAR

Pickles Pub: Saturday, June 27

IDENTITY CRISIS

Jolly Jellyfish: Sunday, June 28

THE DUNEHOUNDS

Harborside: Saturday, June 27

Coconuts Beach Bar: Wednesday, July 1

THE ROCKOHOLICS

Coins Pub: Saturday, June 26

Purple Moose: Thursday, July 2

INNAVIBE

Pickles Pub: Thursday, July 2

DEVIATION

Who’s Where When

Mon., June 29: Deck Party - DJ Wax, Faded Image, DJ Dnial & The Biscotti Boys

Tues., June 30: Bryan Clark & Saltwater Sweat Line Dancing

Wed., July 1: DJ Hector

Thursdays: DJ Groove, On The Edge & High Voltage

FISH TALES 410-289-0990

22nd Street & The Bay

Fri., June 26: Full Circle (Duo)

Sat., June 27: Joe Wood

Sun., June 28: Colossal Fossil Sauce

Wednesdays: DJ Wax

HARBORSIDE 410-213-1846

South Harbor Rd., West End O.C.

Fridays: DJ Billy T

Sat., June 27: The Dunehounds & DJ Bigler

Sundays: Pickin’ Party & Wayne Blake

Wednesdays: DJ Billy T

Thursdays: Dust N Bones

JOLLY JELLYFISH BEACH CLUB

443-664-6147

98th Street Coastal Hwy.,

Plaza Condominium

Fri., June 26: Beach Bandits

Sat., June 27: John Schwartz

Sun., June 28: Identity Crisis

Mon., June 29: First Class

Tues., June 30: TBA

Wed., July 1: Joe Mama & Friends

Thurs., July 2: Uncle Ward

PICKLES PUB

410-289-4891

8th Street & Philadelphia Ave.

Fridays: Beats By DeoGee

Sat., June 27: Stratus Fear

Mon., June 29: Karaoke w/ Wood

Tuesdays: Beats By Wax

Wednesdays: Beats By C-Miller

Thursdays: Innavibe & Beats By Connair

PURPLE MOOSE SALOON

410-289-6953

Between Caroline & Talbot Streets On The Boards Fri., June 26: It’s All Good & DJ Mary Jane

Sat., June 27: Charlie Travers (2pm), It’s All Good & DJ Papi

Sun., June 28: Gavin (2pm), Purple Sundays - 3 Guest DJs Mon-Thurs: DJ Papi

Thurs., July 2: Alter Ego

SEACRETS

410-524-4900

49th Street & Coastal Hwy.

Fri., June 26: DJ J-Spinz, DJ E-State, Liquid A, The Wayouts & The Event Horizon Sat., June 27: DJ J-Spinz, DJ Davie, DJ Bobby O, DJ E-State, Tommi Boi, The Wayouts, Kono Nation & Stealing Savanah

Sun, June 28: Line Dancing, DJ Cheech, DJ KP, Red Dirt Revolution, No Filter & DJ E-State

Mon., June 29: Blake Haley, DJ E-State & 10th Anniversary Distilling Co.

Tues., June 30: Opposite Directions, DJ Wax & Turning The Tide

Wed., July 1: DJ E-State, Full Circle Duo, The Benderz & Luke Borchelt (Ticket Event)

Thurs, July 2: Faith Noel & Lost In Paris

THE WEDGE

410-289-5121

806 S. Atlantic Ave.

Tues., June 30: Boogiemen

ALTER EGO

Troop’s garden plans at town park approved

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(June 25, 2026) Junior members of Girl Scout Troop 365 are bringing a new sensory garden to Stephen Decatur Park after presenting their proposal to the Berlin Town Council on Monday night.

The project, which previously received approval from the town’s Parks Commission, will be installed along the walking path surrounding the pond at the park. The troop plans to create the garden as part of its effort to earn the Girl Scout Bronze Award while also offering a mindfulness-focused resource to the community.

According to the troop’s presentation, a sensory garden is a natural space designed to help visitors connect with nature through their senses. The goal is to create an environment that pro-

motes relaxation, reduces stress, and provides therapeutic benefits for people of all ages, including individuals with sensory processing disorders, neurodivergence, and other mental or physical health challenges.

The proposed garden will feature three stations along the pond path, focusing on the senses of smell, touch, sound and sight.

Visitors will enter through a welcome area marked by a sign mounted on a wooden base near the existing pond entrance sign. The sign will explain the purpose of the sensory garden and recognize the troop’s contribution.

The first stop, the smell station, will include a pollinator garden planted with fragrant native perennials selected to bloom from spring through late summer. The station will feature a 10foot-by-5-foot raised wooden garden

bed located near the path. Planned plantings include daffodils, coral bells, blue moon woodland phlox, homestead purple verbena, anise hyssop, and peacock white garden phlox. An instructional sign will encourage visitors to explore the scents of the plants.

The second stop, the touch station, will invite park-goers to interact with natural materials of varying textures. A mulch pathway designed to meet Americans with Disabilities Act standards will lead from the pond trail to a wooden sorting box divided into six sections labeled smooth, rough, spiky, bumpy, soft, and crunchy. Participants may collect natural objects and sort them according to texture.

The final station will focus on sight and sound. Visitors can sit on a bench and observe the natural environment around them, from the sky and trees to

ripples on the pond. They will also be invited to listen for sounds such as birds, wind, and water.

To enhance the experience, the troop proposed installing three or four birdhouses designed for local bird species, a bat house, and an interactive rain stick.

The rain stick will consist of a capped PVC pipe attached to a wooden post, allowing visitors to fill it with natural objects and listen to the sounds they create as they move through the pipe.

The final area will also include an imaginative play space where children can build fairy houses, animal shelters, and other creations using sticks, bark, leaves, and stones found nearby. Troop members plan to construct a toad house and fairy house to inspire visitors’ creativity.

Md State Firefighters Association Parade

The Town of Berlin hosted last Saturday for the first time the annual firefighter’s parade, sponsored and organized by the Maryland State Firefighters Association. About 200 entires participated in the parade, representing about double the participation from last year’s parade in Ocean City.

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Advice for parents to avoid lost kid drama on beach day

By Kristin Joson Contributing Writer

(June 26, 2026) The beach is a place where families come to relax, play, and make memories. But with thousands of visitors spread across the sand on a busy summer day, it's surprisingly easy for a child to become separated from their family. Fortunately, a few simple steps can greatly reduce the chances of a lost child incident and help everyone enjoy a safer beach experience.

During my 23 years with the Ocean City Beach Patrol, I've witnessed countless emotional reunions between lost children and their families. Fortunately, most separations are resolved quickly thanks to the vigilance of our lifeguards and a few simple precautions taken by parents before a problem occurs.

One of the first things we encourage families to do when they arrive at the beach is to introduce their children to the lifeguard on duty. Show your child the lifeguard stand and explain that if they become separated from their family, they should immediately go to "the person in the big white chair."

This simple step can make a tremendous difference. Our lifeguards appreciate knowing who the young children are in their area, and if a child does become separated, it helps us reunite families more quickly so our guards can return their full attention to their primary responsibility, watching the water.

Child separations are more common than many people realize. On busy summer weekends, it is not unusual for the Beach Patrol to assist with more than 30 lost-child incidents in a single day. The good news is that with a little preparation and awareness, most of these situations can be prevented or resolved quickly and safely. This also occurs with older individuals who have lost their bearings and become confused so remain aware of others who may have this difficulty.

Another tip is to show your kids the numbered street sign that faces the beach at the dune access. Point out a few distinguishable buildings in the background to help orient them to the area. To a young child standing at the water’s edge, the beach can look like a repeating pattern of umbrellas and chairs, making parents disappear quite easily. Some kids might also be able to memorize your cell phone number. Our lifeguards have the ability to make radio contact with our dispatcher who can place a call to parents if needed. When kids get panicked, they tend to pick up the pace and cover more ground as they search frantically for something familiar. Additionally, the current can move children along the beach so they exit the water sometimes blocks away from where they entered. Though these factors can cause children to become lost, lost kids do display several commonalities, like walking at the water’s edge with the wind at their back (the path of least resistance.) These signs can help lifeguards initiate a search with semaphore, otherwise known as our flag language, as a message is sent to each guard.

While lifeguards are visually sweeping the beach, the message is also sent

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Crew Chief Chris Barchow helped reunite two lost children last weekend near the boardwalk. Parents are encouraged to introduce rrdtheir children to the lifeguard at their beach so they know who to approach if they need help. If your lifeguard doesn’t keep eye contact, it’s because they are constantly scanning the water and their area to keep everyone safe but they are ready to answer questions and assist beachgoers.

Most lost kids reunited quickly

via radio to spread the information to a larger area. During this time, it is extremely important to have a group member stay with the lifeguard closest to where the individual is lost from. Keeping a group member close to the lifeguard stand allows us to return the lost individual to the correct location, and allows for a good flow of communication. We have had incidents where the child was located quickly within a few minutes only to be searching for a family member for over an hour. Our Area Supervisors, who patrol on mobile rescue units (ATV’s), will also sweep the area searching for the lost individual. We are proud to say that through this process, we have a 100% return rate for lost parties, with most reunited in 10 minutes or less.

A couple years ago at the downtown fireworks display an 11-year-old child became separated from his family in the large crowd of 1,000’s of people. Because of how long the child was missing the Police called in a State Police helicopter, the US Coast Guard as well as the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Police to begin searching along the water’s edge. As a result, the fireworks display was placed on an indefinite hold until the child could be located and reunited with family members. Fortunately, Beach Patrol staff work this event, and our own Sergeant Tim Uebel located the missing child. Tim is like a Blood Hound when it comes to locating both lost people and lost items.

Two years ago, a new initiative called the “Find-a-Kid Program,” developed by the OCMD Hospitality Association, (formerly known as Ocean City Hotel-MotelRestaurant Association) started offering wristbands to guests with children at participating hotels. The wristbands have the hotel's name, address, and phone number printed on them, along with the OCMD Hospitality Association logo. If the Beach Patrol locates a child wearing one of these wristbands it will assist us in two ways. First it will let us concentrate our efforts to locate the responsible adult at the area where the child originated from since we have had kids walk several miles before someone alerts the SRT. Secondly our Duty Officer (OCBP dispatcher) will contact the hotel listed on the wristband letting them know a child from their hotel has been located.

Taking a few minutes to make a simple plan with your child can go a long way in keeping your beach day safe and your vacation stress-free. Remind them who to go to if they get lost, pick a landmark they can recognize, and check in regularly. Although you are allowed to be on the beach before and after the Beach Patrol goes on duty each day some of the longest missing person cases have occurred when a child wonders off and the SRTs are not available. Even with a smaller beach population, kids still wonder off, so keep an even closer eye on your family.

by Steve Green

The Adventures of Fatherhood

(Editor’s Note: The following is a reprint from November of 2023.) rocessing something significant can be challenging for all of us.

PFor a teenager like Beckett, who was adopted at birth by us in Pennsylvania, last Saturday was a milestone moment in his life. He had the opportunity to meet for the first time his biological half-sister. He and Brittany (for the sake of this space) connected on Instagram after Beckett shared a photo from the Oceans Calling Festival. Beckett, 15, and Brittany, 19, share the same birth mother. Though she doesn’t remember, we met Brittany back in 2008 when Beckett was born at the hospital in Pennsylvania.

When the two connected online last month, we learned Beckett’s biological mother had passed six years ago unexpectedly from a brain aneurysm. This was a hard hit for all of us because we will forever admire, respect and appreciate Tonya (again an alias). It was equally disheartening to learn Brittany was not raised by her mother due to her ongoing battle with addiction.

Though it was certainly out of the blue at the time, Pam and I were happy to hear Brittany had reached out. Beckett has always known his adoption story and is comfortable talking about it. It’s a huge part of his life story. As he’s gotten older, his curiosity about his biological roots have understandably so grown.

Soon after connecting, we started making plans to get Beckett and his sister together, ultimately deciding to meet as a family near her college. Beckett was nervous about the lunch, and Brittany acknowledged the same feelings. We admitted to Beckett having our own anxiety as well. We just reminded him be yourself.

We arrived first to the restaurant and got a table. Pam and Beckett remained

out front to meet her, while Carson and I stayed at the table to not overwhelm. As they were waiting in the foyer, Beckett said to Pam, “I am so nervous, I just don’t want to say anything to mess this up.” It was a rare and charming display of vulnerability. As only a mom can, Pam provided support and assurance.

I was so glad Pam thought to video the first embrace Brittany and Beckett shared in the restaurant lobby. It was incredibly memorable and special to observe this interaction. I still can’t watch the video without tearing up over the relief and sincerity in the connection.

We learned a lot about Brittany’s life during our lunch. She has overcome a tremendous amount and was raised by her grandparents. It would be unfair to share her life story’s details, but it’s impressive she is enrolled in college after withstanding a lot in her 19 years.

There were moments during lunch when I could not help but stare at Beckett and Brittany as we talked. The resemblance was obvious, as both share light complexion, light eyes, similar smiles and the same facial features.

After lunch, Beckett and Brittany walked around the mall together without us. Since Pam had a burning desire to shop, Carson and I spent 40 minutes touching every single iPad and device in the Apple store. After that fourth request to help from a service person, we opted to move along to the Tesla store. We briefly walked into the store, and I took a picture of Carson next to the latest and greatest model. Within hours, I got an email from Tesla thanking me for visiting. This notification came without me having one conversation in the store.

After a couple hours, we all headed in our opposite directions. On the way home, we didn’t talk a ton about the experience. Beckett clearly was excited but not anxious to dive deep into anything.

Later in the night before bed, I

checked on him. He said, “I am not sure I have even processed all this yet.” I assured him we were right there with him. It’s impossible to digest the magnitude of the day in hours.

When major things happen in life, perspective can be tough to find. When I am at these sorts of strange places, I write. For Beckett, he said he was fine and was just letting it all sink in.

I have no idea what’s next for these two siblings, but we will support the relationship in whatever fashion it takes. We are excited for future opportunities. We left our gathering saying we would see her soon. I think Beckett was happy with that because it's all so new. They communicate through social media regularly and Pam and I are happy about their new connection.

On a deeper level, I am excited for Beckett to have another family member on his team. There’s a new relationship in his life and it’s exciting. If she can be of support to him and him to her, it will be a beautiful thing.

On an even deeper level, Beckett has long wished for a neurotypical sibling. During tough stints with his Autistic little brother, he has clearly articulated his wish for a different reality. Beckett’s biting comments have been been painful to hear at certain times, but the raw honesty is appreciated.

Beckett loves his little brother, but life is not easy. He has missed out on many typical sibling experiences. There’s a forever bond and Beckett has an innate sense and desire to protect his special needs brother. It’s magical in that way, but it’s been difficult for Beckett. The fact he now has a sister to bond with is significant on many levels. I don’t think he has even looked at it through this lens yet or maybe he has.

(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.)

Surf Club honors membership with awards ceremony

By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer

(June 26, 2026) This past weekend was huge for the Ocean City Surf Club (OCSC). Friday evening’s presentations at Barn 34 were abundant although the entire surf community mourned OCSC President Tommy Vach and Ocean City Beach Patrol Lt. Ward Kovacs.

Ann Cooke awarded scholarships of $10,000 each to college bound students Brody Olson, Lilah Johnstone, April Bondurant, and Cameron Andrews. The Assateague Coastal Trust Award was presented to Debbi Dean and her crew of Taylor Swanson, Susan Emond, and Ginny Kearney. Volunteers Evelyn Charey and Morgan Jenkins were recognized.

OCSC sponsors of the year, Bill Dreibelbis and Quiet Storm, were acknowledged, as well as D3, the OCSC website builder and maintainer. The Shelly Dawson Safety Award was individually given to OCBP officers Skip Lee, Mike Stone, and Tim Uebel.

The Aloha Spirit Award went posthumously to Kovacs. It was accepted by his sister, Kate, and her husband, Mark. Morgan Cushing was recognized as a “rising star.”

Acknowledged as Legends were Dave French, Billy Todd, Dave Fishell, Hugh Wilde, Mike Trivits, Judd Sands, Kevin Cranfield, Jay Hall, Scott Hall, and Chris Freeman.

The “Anything Goes” contest was held on Saturday. Sunday saw a surfer’s swap meet at Fager’s Island Restaurant and ended with an OCSC, OCBP celebration of life paddle out honoring Kovacs. Indeed, it had been a significant few days for Brad Hoffman, the OCSC, and OCBP, especially with the passing of Ward Kovacs and Tommy Vach.

— The writer is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City.

Comp plan hearing set

(June 26, 2026) The Worcester County Planning Commission will host a public hearing on the 2026 Comprehensive Plan. Residents are encouraged to attend and share their perspectives on future growth and development. The hearing will take place July 9 at 1 p.m. in the Worcester County Government Center in Snow Hill.

The Comprehensive Plan serves as Worcester County’s long-range roadmap, guiding decisions related to land use, housing, transportation, environmental protection, infrastructure, and economic development. The current update is the first comprehensive revision since March 2006, with amendments in 2010 and 2011.

“Following years of public outreach, community meetings, surveys, stakeholder engagement, and work sessions with the County Commissioners, the Planning Commission is now presenting a final draft plan for public review and comment,” Development Review and Permitting Director Jennifer Keener said. “The Planning Commission has made edits to the plan that reflect State comments and public feedback on several topics important to the community.”

Among the key updates are revisions to the Housing Chapter to reflect new State guidance on fair housing and the Land Use Chapter to modify the County’s approach to the E-1 District.

Following the July 9 public hearing, the Planning Commission will consider any additional comments received and may recommend further revisions before forwarding the draft plan to the County Commissioners. The County Commissioners will then conduct a separate public hearing before considering formal adoption of

the plan. The date of that hearing has not yet been scheduled and will be announced at a later time.

The draft Comprehensive Plan is available for review at www.worcestermd.gov/comprehensive-plan.

Student achievements

The following represents a collection of releases distributed to this news outlet from colleges.

- More than 20,000 University of Maryland Global Campus students were named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2026 term. To be eligible for the honor, a student must complete at least six credits during the term, earn a grade point average of at least 3.5 for the term, and maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.5 at UMGC.

Local students named were Larry Bickel of Berlin, Alexander Bragg of Ocean City, Comfort Brown of Berlin, Ian Burak of Berlin, Catherine Callahan of Ocean City, Jonathan Davis of Ocean City, Janeen Dillon McCoy of Berlin, Mikayla Dischinger of Berlin, Joshua Dolan of Ocean City, Kevin Engel of Berlin, Kathleen Ewing of Ocean City, Julia Gorevich of Berlin, David Janney of Ocean City, Curtis Kamara of Ocean City, Dawn Knighton of Berlin, Katelyn McIntyre of Ocean City, Julia Miller of Berlin, Avery Pruitt of Berlin, Kylie Record of Bishopville, Angela Robinson of Ocean Pines, Anna Smith of Berlin, Andrew Sullivan of Berlin, Devon Tingle of Ocean City and Jack Tucker of Berlin.

- Ryleigh Smith of Bishopville excelled during the spring 2026 semester at Hofstra, achieving a GPA of at least 3.5 to earn a spot on the Dean’s List. Her major is Exercise Physiology.-

- Rylie Kirby was named to The University of Alabama’s Dean’s List for the spring semester 2026.

Try an espresso martini Jell-O shot

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer

(June 26, 2026) To understand the essence of a particular ingredient, one must comprehend every aspect of its being.

That being said, our weekly journey focuses on America’s favorite drink: Coffee. It not only soothes the soul, but helps the world to rise to a beautiful day.

But, believe it or not, there is no official documentation to confirm exactly who discovered coffee trees for the first time, or who invented coffee as the beverage we know today.

But according to legend, a goat herder named Kaldi was the first person who discovered coffee. According to “About Coffee,” Kaldi noticed that after his goats ate the cherries of a particular tree in the ancient coffee forests of the Ethiopian plateau, they were so full of energy that thy did not want to sleep at night.

Moving onto some intriguing coffee facts, did you know that coffee beans undergo two stages of processing? In the first phase, the seeds must be removed cleanly from the berries that enclose them. The seeds are then dried and shipped.

Once the seeds reach the manufac-

turer, they are roasted. The hotter and longer the beans are roasted, the darker and more strongly flavored they get.

Coffee’s printed “expiration” or “best by” date is not a food safety deadline; it is a guide to when the coffee tastes its best.

Coffee beans contain oils. Over time, mineral deposits and coffee oils build up inside your pot, affecting the taste and quality of your brew. As a result, it is recommended to clean your coffee pot periodically.

For those who cherish their favorite mug, preheat the cup by filling it with hot water. Room temperature mugs absorb the heat which in turns allows the coffee to cool down faster.

Coffee is more than a drink, it is used for many dishes such as ice cream, cakes, candy, coffee rubs, barbeque sauce, gravies, and much more.

If you have company coming and you want to think out of the box and have fun, consider espresso martini Jell-O shooters. Vanilla vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso powder, and unflavored gelatin give this adult, sweet tasting treat a real kick.

Unflavored gelatin is a key component and using this product requires two steps for the gelatin to congeal. Blooming (hydrating in cold water) is the first phase. Sprinkle one packet of unflavored gelatin evenly over ¼ cup of cold water for 7

minutes or until it absorbs the liquid and becomes thick and sponge-like. The second step involves melting the bloomed gelatin over low heat with a warm liquid.

The following recipe calls for simple syrup. The recipe for simple syrup is to combine equal parts of granulated sugar and water in a small saucepan. Heat gently over medium-low until the sugar dissolves. Allow the mixture to cool and use accordingly.

Any flavored creamy drink such as Bailey’s Irish Cream, ChocoLat Salted Caramel, Chocolate Liquor, or Bailey’s Chocolate beaten with equal parts of heavy cream makes a luscious topping for the Jell-O.

If you want to keep it simple — whipped cream, a dusting of sweet coco powder, and espresso beans continues the theme of coffee goodness.

This Jell-O dessert should be served in martini or shot glasses. It’s important to make sure that each layer of the drink is exactly the same. Otherwise, your presentation will look sloppy.

Ingredients

½ cup cold water

2 packages unflavored gelatin

1 cup freshly brewed espresso 1/2 cup vanilla vodka

½ cup coffee liqueur

3 tablespoons simple syrup

whipped cream, flavored whipped

topping, dusting of chocolate powder, or espresso beans for a garnish

1. Arrange shot or martini glasses on a baking sheet.

2. In a medium bowl, sprinkle 2 packets of gelatin over 1/2 cup of cold water and let it bloom for 7 minutes or until it thickens.

3. Whisk in cup of hot espresso and mix until gelatin is fully dissolved.

4. Stir in vodka, coffee liqueur, and simple syrup.

5. Carefully pour the espresso mixture into the shot or martini glasses. Make sure the glasses have an even amount of the espresso mixture. This is key in the presentation.

6. Refrigerate for 3 hours or until the mixture is set.

7. Top espresso mixture with garnish of your choice.

Secret Ingredient – Serenity

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

~ S.A. Jefferson Wright

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 26

BARK ON THE BEACH

Ocean Pines Beach Club, 49th Street, Ocean City, 5-7 p.m. Featuring cocktails, pup cups, and raffle giveaways for owners and K-9’s. Free event. Collecting donations for The Worcester County Humane Society. Adult beverages must be purchased on-site. 410641-7052

ENCHANTED CARNIVAL A 4TH FRIDAY EVENT

Downtown Pocomoke, 813 Market St., Pocomoke City, 5-9 p.m. Sidewalk vendors, food vendors, cash bar with local brews and music by DJ Kay. Fireworks at approximately 9:30 p.m. Rain date for fireworks is June 27. 410-957-1333, mshannon@pocomokemd.gov

FANDOM FRIDAY: POP MUSIC

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 9 a.m.5 p.m. Drop in any time for crafts, quizzes and discussions about the monthly topic. For ages 12-18 years. 410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org

BABY BOP

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Dress up and dance along to music with glow sticks. For ages 0-5 years. 410-2084014, worcesterlibrary.org

OC MAHJONG CLUB

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

MONTHLY MOVIE MATINEE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Catch a movie you might have missed in the theaters. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

Sat., June 27

OC PRIDE PARADE

Hugh T. Cropper Inlet Parking Lot, 809 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City. Meet at 10 a.m. in the inlet parking lot, walk begins at 10:30 a.m. The 30-45 minute parade goes around the pier, up the Boardwalk to 2nd Street and back. There will be tables with OC Pride merch.

CATHY REITER MEMORIAL “ONE MILE’ER” WALK/RUN

Cork Bar, 3 Wicomico St., Ocean City, 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Tickets $40. One mile run on OC’s historic boardwalk to benefit the scholarship fund of the A.M. Foundation awarded annually to a Stephen Decatur senior!

POCOMOKE POKER RUN

Dockside, 2 Riverside Drive, Pocomoke City, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Play by boat or car. Visit locations and compete in challenges. Prizes for Best Poker Hand and Best Mini-Games. https://app.seemylegacy.com/community/2649/campaign/8882/overview, 410-957-1333

KID’S KITCHEN

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m. The group will be making and baking pizza pockets. For ages 6-11 years. Registration required: 410-208-4014. worcesterlibrary.org

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

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 28

SUNDAES IN THE PARK WITH FIREWORKS

Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 7-9 p.m. Featuring “Rick K: Rock N’ Roll Revue/Decades of Hits.” Activities and entertainment for kids, ice cream (available for purchase) and fireworks.

https://www.ococean.com/events/

BERLIN FARMERS MARKET

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

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

SEWING SEEDS OF LOVE

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 29

SUMMER KIDS CAMP — THEATER

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., Ocean City, June 29, 10 a.m. through July 2, 3 p.m. Kid’s theater summer camp based on The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe. Live performance on Thursday afternoon. Register: https://canvas.artleagueofoceancity.org /classes/2858. 410-524-9433

SUMMER KIDS CAMP — VISUAL ARTS

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., Ocean City, July 29, 10 a.m. through July 2, 3 p.m. Inspired by The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. For ages 6-13 years. Student art show on Thursday. Register: https://canvas.artleagueofoceancity.org/classes/2860. 410-5249433

STORY TIME: ZOO

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

MONDAY MOVIES AND MUNCHIES

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Come sink your teeth into a Dino-rrific movie. For ages 6-11 years. 410-2084014, worcesterlibrary.org

SPEED PUZZLING

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 4 p.m. Grab some friends or form a team at the library to see who can put their puzzle together the fastest. 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, 6:00-8:00 p.m. All ladies who love to sing invited. If you plan to visit, please Contact: Director: Ludwig692@outlook.com, 410641-6876 or Membership Coordinator: ocelissa@yahoo.com, 410-641-8050.

OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS

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

Tues., June 30

OC KNITTING GROUP

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

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, worcesterlibrary.org

LIVING FOSSILS: EXPLORING HORSESHOE CRABS WITH MARYLAND COASTAL BAYS PROGRAM

Snow Hill Elementary School, 515 Coulbourne Lane, 10:30 a.m. Explore and unearth the stories about this prehistoric creature that still plays an important role in our ecosystem. Get up close with animals that live right here. For ages 6-11 years. 410-632-5622

STORY TIME: DINOSAUR STOMP

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 10:30 a.m. Roar, read and have fun with stories, songs and crafts. For ages 2-5 years. 410-9570878, worcesterlibrary.org

MASTER GARDENERS PLANT CLINIC

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

LIVING FOSSILS: EXPLORING HORSESHOE CRABS WITH MARYLAND COASTAL BAYS PROGRAM

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Explore and unearth the stories about this prehistoric creature that still plays an important role in our ecosystem. Get up close with animals that live right here. For ages 6-11 years. 410-208-4014

BEACH HEROES-OC

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

Continued on Page 50

Continued from Page 49

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. 410-289-4725

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.

Wed., July 1

FAMILY FUN NIGHTS

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

MOVIES ON THE BEACH

Carousel Oceanfront Hotel & Condos, 11700 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 8:30 p.m. Featured movie is “The SpongeBob Movie Search for Squarepants.” Bring blankets, chairs and snacks. Movie lineup: https://www.ococean.com/things-to-do/free-familyfun/.

LIVING FOSSILS: EXPLORING HORSESHOE CRABS WITH MARYLAND COASTAL BAYS PROGRAM

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Explore and unearth the stories about this prehistoric creature that still plays an important role in our ecosystem. Get up close with animals that live right here. For ages 6-11 years. 410-5241818

LEGO MASTERS CHALLENGE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11:30 a.m. Join in for a Lego challenge event. All materials provided. For ages 6-11 years.

410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

PUZZLE SWAP

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 1-7 p.m. Bring your gently used puzzles and leave with a new-to-you puzzle. Don’t have a puzzle but still want one? That’s okay, too. All puzzles must be complete and in their original box. All ages welcome. 410-6410650

KIWANIS CLUB MEETING

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

CASH BINGO

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

ZUMBA PLUS!!

Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 4:30 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com

Thurs., July 2

OCEAN CITY TOURISM POP UP

Flamingo Coast, 3 Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 1-4 p.m. Stop by to grab a photo in front of OC photo ops, win smile swag and more. Be sure to download the app to play games and win swag at the pop up.

OCEAN PINES CONCERTS IN THE PARK

White Horse Park Pavilion, Ocean Pines, 7-9 p.m. Free community event featuring “The Flip Side Band.” Food for sale. BYOB welcome. 410-641-7052

OC CHESS CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Enjoy a relaxing game of chess every month at the library. 410-5241818, https://worcesterlibrary.org

BEACH READATHON

On the beach at 100th St., 10003 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Bring your own book or borrow one. Water and a treat provided. Follow the group back to the library to log your Summer Reading hours. Rain date is July 16. 410-524-1818, https://worcesterlibrary.org

LIVING FOSSILS: EXPLORING HORSESHOE CRABS WITH MARYLAND COASTAL BAYS PROGRAM

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Explore and unearth the stories about this prehistoric creature that still plays an important role in our ecosystem. Get up close with animals that live right here. For ages 6-11 years. 410-641-0650

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, worcesterlibrary.org

STORY TIME: DINOSAURS LOVE UNDERPANTS

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

DIY FIREWORKS

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 12 p.m. Join in for a STEAM adventure. For ages 6-11 years. Registration required: 410-2084014. worcesterlibrary.org

PATRIOTIC TRIVIA

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Test your knowledge of our nation and its history. Prizes awarded to the top three teams. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

LIVING FOSSILS: EXPLORING HORSESHOE CRABS WITH MARYLAND COASTAL BAYS PROGRAM

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 2 p.m. Explore and unearth the stories about this prehistoric creature that still plays an important role in our ecosystem. Get up close with animals that live right here. For ages 6-11 years. 410-957-0878

DRY PANTRY

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

FIT & FABULOUS

Thursdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 4:30 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com

ONGOING EVENTS

ESCAPE THE APEX PREDATOR

From June 29 through August 21, stop by any Worcester County library branch to solve puzzles and clues to escape the anomalocaris in this virtual game. Must register to receive the link, which will stay active until August 21 so participants can play at their own speed. For families. Registration required: 410-632-5622.

TAKE AND MAKE: COLOR-IN MAGNETS

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

OC READS: ‘WE ARE ALL GUILTY HERE’ BY KARIN SLAUGHTER

Ocean City library, 10003 Coastal High-

way, July 1-31. Pick up a copy of this month’s read, then come in before the end of the month to share your impressions and enter the drawing to win free books. 410-524-1818

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

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 30

ENTRY LEVEL

ACCOUNTANT

VA Beach Retail, LLC (Ocean City, MD) Process accounts payable & accounts receivable transactions accurately & on time. Min. Requirements: Bach’s deg in Accounting, Finance or related field + 6 months of exp. as Accountant in a for-profit company. Must have 6 months of exp. in data entry & posting transactions. Must have at least 6 months of exp. using MS Excel w/advanced Formulas & Pivot tables, MS Word & MS Power Point. Must have at least 6 months of exp. using Quickbooks or similar accounting software to analyze & reconcile financial records.

Mail resume to:

Attn: Avinash Basnet, VA Beach Retail, LLC, 12507 Sunset Ave., Ste. 26, Ocean City, MD 21842

ASSISTANT MANAGER

Assists general manager in overseeing the operation and administration of an expanding group of 4 restaurant in Worcester County, Maryland. Travel required for two to four hours, 2 to 3 times per week to various associated restaurants located throughout Worcester County, MD. $53,000/year. 7 days paid vacation/401K/ health insurance. Send resume to Spain Wine Bar, Attn: P. Elias, 13 St. Louis Ave., Ocean City, MD 21842. 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 appreciated. 410-208-6513, please all after 6pm.

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

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!

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

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

CLEANERS NEEDED

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

• 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

Seeking Year-Round Rentals!

Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555.

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

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

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT

Downtown Berlin $425 month + utils. 2 units available. Call 410-713-2065.

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

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

Storage, Warehouse, Office, or Retail with a roll up door. 1176 SF plus 600 SF loft. West OC near Harbor. 12636 Sunset Avenue For Rent $1,600 410-422-2100

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

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT

ROOMMATES

ROOM FOR RENT

Fully furnished, large, clean, private room. Full house privileges. $900 per mo., util’s included. $400 sec. dep. Call 443-880-2317.

LARRY’S HANDYMAN

SERVICES No job too small, windows, entrance doors, interior doors, storm doors, shower doors,

TRUSTEE’S SALE OF

CONDOMINIUM UNIT

In accordance with the order in Case no. C-23-CV-25-000026 in the Circuit Court for Worcester County, the Trustee named below will sell at public auction to the highest bidder on Monday, July 13, 2026, at 3:30 p.m., at the front door of Oceanscape Condominium Unit No. 402, 16 64th Street, Ocean City, MD, all that property designated as Oceanscape Condominium Unit No. 402, together with an undivided percentage interest in the common elements, as established pursuant to a Condominium Master Deed and ByLaws, as amended, dated September 12, 2001, and recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland in Liber No. 3122, Folio 573, et seq., and pursuant also to the several plats described in the said Condominium Master Deed and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records in Plat Book No. 171, Folio 28, et. seq., as further described in a deed recorded at Book 8417, Page 180, et seq., in “AS IS” condition, SUBJECT to all the liens, covenants, agreements, conditions, easements and restrictions as may appear among the land records of Worcester County, Maryland.

A deposit of $25,000.00 in cash or certified check will be required of the Purchaser at the auction. (A deposit will not be required if the successful bidder is the Plaintiff/secured party in this foreclosure action.) The balance in cash or cashier’s or certified check shall be paid within 20 days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, said balance to bear interest at the rate of ten percent (10%) per annum from the date of sale to the date of payment. Time is of the essence for the Purchaser. All real estate taxes, wastewater and water charges, and condominium assessments shall be adjusted as of the date of sale and assumed thereafter by the Purchaser. All settlement costs, including recordation and transfer taxes and recording fees, shall be paid by the Purchaser. Possession will be given upon payment in full of the purchase price. If Purchaser fails to pay the balance of the purchase price when due, the deposit shall be forfeited and the property resold at the risk and cost of the defaulting Purchaser.

For further information, you may contact Spencer Ayres Cropper, Trustee, 410-723-1400. OCD-6/25/3t

LTX Law Group / Wittstadt et als., Trustees

1966 Greenspring Drive, Suite LL2

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

SUBSTITUTE

TRUSTEES' SALE

OF RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY

Unit 101, Indigo, 5603 Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842

a.k.a. 5603 Atlantic Avenue, # 101,

Ocean City, MD 21842

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from Richard L. China and Tammy L. China, dated September 21, 2007 and recorded in Liber 5002, Folio 79 among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, with an original principal balance of $960,000.00, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Substitute Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, 1 West Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863, Courthouse Door, on

Monday, July 13, 2026 AT 11:00 AM

ALL THAT FEE-SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND and the improvements thereon situated in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The real property is known as Unit 101, Indigo, 5603 Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842 a.k.a. 5603 Atlantic Avenue, #101, Ocean City, MD 21842, Tax ID #10-751349. Tax Map 0113, Grid 0022, Parcel 7897.

Terms of Sale: The property will be sold “as is” and subject to conditions, restrictions, easements and agreements of record affecting same, if any and with no warranty of any kind. A deposit of $120,000.00 in the form of cash, cashier’s check, certified check, or other form as the Substitute Trustees determine acceptable, is required at the time of auction. Balance of the purchase price to be paid in cash within ten days of final ratification of sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County. At the Substitute Trustees’ discretion, the foreclosure purchaser, if a corporation or LLC, must produce evidence, prior to bidding, of the legal formation of such entity. The purchaser, other than the Holder of the Note, its assigns, or designees, shall pay interest on the unpaid purchase money at the rate of 7.375% per annum from the date of foreclosure auction to the date funds are received in the office of the Substitute Trustees.

In the event settlement is delayed for any reason , there shall be no abatement of interest. Real estate taxes and all other public charges, or assessments, ground rent, or condo/HOA assessments, not otherwise divested by ratification of the sale, to be adjusted as of the date of foreclosure auction and assumed thereafter by the purchaser. Purchaser will take title subject to any private utility water and sewer covenants, and will be responsible for any fees assessed in transferring the account. All private utility water and sewer or front foot benefit charges will be adjusted to the date of sale and assumed thereafter by the Purchaser. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes and settlement expenses, and all other costs incident to settlement, shall be borne by the purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. Purchaser assumes the risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale forward.

TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE.

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

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

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

Mark H. Wittstadt, Gerard F. Miles, Jr., and Cole Luthy, Substitute Trustees Tidewater Auctions, LLC PO Box 9, Phoenix, MD 21131 410-825-2900 www.tidewaterauctions.com OCD-6/25/3t

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 11, 2026

OCD-6/11/3t

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 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

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 notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-6/11/3t

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

Rachel Harris, Esq.

P.O. Box 62 Pocomoke City, MD 21851

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 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

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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

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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 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

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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

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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 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

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

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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

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 ad-

JUNE 26, 2026

dress 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 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

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MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF

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

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

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

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 218045562 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 creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-6/18/3t

REGAN J. R. SMITH ESQ WILLIAMS MOORE, L.L.P. 12800 HOSPITALITY WAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-9394

SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of BRIAN MICHAEL CURRAN Estate No. 21161 Notice is given that BRIAN M CURRAN JR whose address is 501 S PLYMOUTH BLVD LOS ANGELES, CA 90020-4709, BRIGID ANN CURRAN whose address is 1405 CRAYDON PL EL DORADO HILLS, CA 95762-5322 were on JUNE 16, 2026 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of BRIAN MICHAEL CURRAN who died on MARCH 05, 2026 with a will.

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

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections

with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or

(2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claims will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

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Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland

BID

SOLICITATION

B01-27 – 14th Street Water Treatment Plant Window and Door Replacements

The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking BID’s from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the 14th Street Water Treatment Plant Window and Door Replacements and for said work to conform with the BID Documents.

BID Documents for the 14th Street Water Treatment Plant Window and Door Replacements may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Leonard at dleonard@oceancitymd.gov, or by calling (410) 723-6643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their BID’s. The Town is not responsible for the content of any 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 MONDAY, JUNE 29TH, 2026 AT 10:00AM EST, AT THE 14TH STREET WATER TREATMENT PLANT, 14TH STREET AND ST. LOUIS AVENUE, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842. The Last Day for Questions will be on MONDAY,

SNOW HILL

JULY 13TH, 2026 AT 4:00PM EST

Addendum will be posted by close of business on TUESDAY, JULY 14TH, 2026

Sealed BID Documents are due no later than MONDAY, JULY 27TH, 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, JULY 28TH, 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 (14th Street Water Treatment Plant Window and Door Replacements) 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

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WORCESTER COUNTY

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Worcester County Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at 1:00 PM in the Worcester County

Government Center, Room 1102, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland. The purpose of this hearing is to accept public comments regarding the draft 2026 Worcester County Comprehensive Plan.

A copy of the proposed planning documents are available to view online at https://www.co.worcester.md.us/comprehensive-plan or during normal business hours at the Department of Development, Review and Permitting, One West Market Street, Room 1201, Snow Hill, MD.

WORCESTER COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS AGENDA

THURSDAY JULY 9, 2026

Pursuant to the provisions of the Worcester County Zoning Ordinance, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held in-person before the Board of Zoning Appeals for Worcester County, in the Board Room (Room 1102) on the first floor of the Worcester County Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland. Audio and video recording will take place during this public hearing.

The public is invited to view this

meeting live online athttps://worcestercountymd.swagit.co m/live

6:30 p.m. Case No. 26-37, on the lands of Bali Hi Park, Inc, on the application of John and Fran Polubjak, requesting after-the-fact variances to the front yard setback from 10 feet to 8.96 feet (encroaches 1.04 feet) and to the rear yard setback from 5 feet to 4.88 feet (encroaches 0.12 feet) for an existing RV in a Cooperative Campground, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-318(e) and ZS 1-305, located at 12342 St. Martins Neck Road, Tax Map 10, Parcel 32, Lot 100, Tax District 5, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:35 p.m. Case No. 26-40, on the lands of Scott and Lori Dunlop, requesting a variance to the front yard setback from 40 feet to 24.2 feet (encroaches 15.8 feet) for a proposed residence in the R-1 Rural Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1205(b)(2) and ZS 1-305, located at 11202 Charlie Drive, Tax Map 10, Parcel 216, Lot 105, Tax District 5, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:40 p.m. Case No. 26-39, on the lands of Snow Hill Property LLC, requesting a variance to the side yard setback from 20 feet to 10.5 feet (to encroach 9.5 feet) for the conversion of an existing structure to a proposed mosque in the C-2 General Commercial District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1210(b)(8) and ZS 1-305 located at 12008 Ocean Gateway, Tax Map 26, Parcel 130, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:45 p.m. Case No. 26-44, on the lands of Louis and Shirley Lazzaro, requesting an after-fact modification to the side lot line from 6 feet to 1 foot (encroaches 5 feet) for an existing boat lift in the R-3 Multi-family Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(n)(3), ZS 1207(d)(6), and ZS 1-335, and Natural Resources Code §§ 2-102(e)(2), located at 1 Sandpiper Lane, Tax Map 16, Parcel 38, Section 1, Lot 650, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:50 p.m. Case No. 26-45, on the lands of Clara and Jeremy Ziman, on the application of J. Stacey Hart & Associates, Inc., requesting two modifications to the side lot line from 6 feet to 0 feet (encroaches 6 feet) for two proposed boat lifts in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(n)(3), ZS 1-206(d)(6), and ZS 1-335, and Natural Resources Code §§ 2-102(e)(2), located at 13013 North Shore Road, Tax Map 22, Parcel 367, Lot 10, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:55 p.m. Case No. 26-38, on the lands of John Scott Hagerty Revocable Trust and Teresa Lynn Hagerty Revocable Trust, on the application of Mark Spencer Cropper, requesting a variance to the Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area Buffer from 100 feet to 25 feet (an encroachment of 75 feet) and a special exception for the replacement of an existing residence in the RP Resource Protection District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3), ZS 1-116(m), ZS 1122(f), ZS 1-215(c)(1) and ZS 1-305 and Natural Resources Code §§ NR

3-104(d)(4) and NR 3-111, located at 11923 Salt Grass Point Road, Tax Map 16, Parcel 37, Tax District 5, Worcester County, Maryland.

7:00 p.m. Case No. 26-42, on the lands of Andrew Urban IV, on the application of Mark Spencer Cropper, requesting a modification to extend a pier with pilings and associated structures an additional 50 feet for a total distance of 200 feet channelward, pursuant to Natural Resources Code §§ NR 2-102(e)(1) and Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(n)(2), located at 10525 Sussex Road, Tax Map 21, Parcel 196, Section D, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

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WORCESTER COUNTY NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Worcester County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing and will receive public comment on the following map amendment on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at 10:35 AM in the Worcester County Government Center, Room 1101, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland: Rezoning Case No. 452, filed by Hugh Cropper on behalf of KASA Holdings, LLC, property owner, for an amendment to the Official Zoning Maps to change approximately 1.66 acres of land located on the westerly side of Stephen Decatur Highway (MD Route 611) and the easterly side of Sinepuxent Road, West Ocean City, Tax Map 26, Parcel 340, in the Tenth Tax District of Worcester County, Maryland, from A-2 Agricultural District to C-1 Neighborhood Commercial District.

A copy of the file on Rezoning Case No. 452 and the Planning Commission’s recommendation, which will be entered into record at the public hearing, are available to view online at www.co.worcester.md.us or during normal business hours at the Department of Development, Review and Permitting, One West Market Street, Room 1201, Snow Hill, MD. THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

OCD-6/25/2t _________________________________

WORCESTER COUNTY NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Worcester County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing and will receive public comment on the following map amendment on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at 10:30 AM in the Worcester County Government Center, Room 1101, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland: Rezoning Case No. 453, filed by Hugh Cropper on behalf of Ocean Pines Plaza Partnership & James B. Vito Revocable Trust, property owners, for an amendment to the Official Zoning Maps to change approximately 14.72 acres of land located on the north side of Racetrack Road (MD Route 589), west of Ocean Parkway (North Gate), Berlin, Tax Map 15, Parcels 130 and 191, in the Third Tax District of Worcester County, Maryland, from R-2 Suburban Resi-

dential District to R-3 Multi-family Residential District.

A copy of the file on Rezoning Case No. 453 and the Planning Commission’s recommendation, which will be entered into record at the public hearing, are available to view online at www.co.worcester.md.us or during normal business hours at the Department of Development, Review and Permitting, One West Market Street, Room 1201, Snow Hill, MD. THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS BOARD OF PORT WARDENS

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 106 ”Waterways,” Article II – “Shoreline Development” of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Port Wardens Ordinance of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland.

Thursday, July 9, 2:00 PM

PW 26-031 A request has been submitted to remove an existing pier and replace it with a new 4’ x 30’ perpendicular pier. Install two new pilings so existing boatlift can be moved to end of new pier; maximum channelward extension 32.5’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 13501 HOLLY LN UNIT 1 Parcel # 9600A1 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Todd Utterback

APPLICANT: McGinty Marine

Construction

PW 26-032 A request has been submitted to install one boat lift with associated pilings, to move an existing lift 6’ north with two associated pilings; all work maximum channelward extension 20’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 165 OLD WHARF RD Parcel # 1534A-33 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Daniel Ross

APPLICANT: McGinty Marine

Construction

PW 26-033 A request has been submitted to remove existing 5’ x 3.1’ pier and install same sized pier in new location with two pilings maximum channelward extension 18’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 501 PENGUIN DR UNIT 23 Parcel # 4424 -23A in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Crab Cove HOA, c/o Gary Rantz

APPLICANT: Kayla L. Lewis

PW 26-034 A request has been submitted to install two PWC lifts on existing pilings maximum channel-

ward extension 24’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 220 52ND ST Parcel # 6816 -220 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: William Farri

APPLICANT: Kayla L. Lewis

PW 26-035 A request has been submitted to install one PWC lift on existing pilings not to exceed 33’ channelward. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 10617 POINT LOOKOUT RD Parcel # 1739A-26 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Brett Alverzo

APPLICANT: Kayla L. Lewis

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Aldridge | Pite, LLP

6001 Executive Blvd., Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20852

ANDREW J. BRENNER, et al. 6001 Executive Blvd., Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20852

Substitute Trustees/ Plaintiffs, vs.

RONALD DIETER JR. 905 Walnut Street Pocomoke City, MD 21851

Defendant(s) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

Case No. C-23-CV-26-000041

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given this 18th day of June, 2026, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings and described as 905 Walnut Street, Pocomoke City, MD 21851, made and reported by the Substitute Trustee, will be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 20th day of July, 2026, provided a copy of this NOTICE be inserted in some weekly newspaper printed in said County, once in each of three successive weeks before the 13th day of July, 2026. The report states the purchase price at the Foreclosure sale to be $122,500.00.

Susan R. Braniecki Clerk, Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD

OCD-6/25/3t

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

ENGINEERING DESIGN, PERMITTING & BID PHASE SERVICES – MD-611 SHARED USE PATH

Worcester County is seeking proposals from qualified Vendors for professional engineering design, permitting and bid phase services for first phase of a shared use path along the east side of MD 611 in conformity with the requirements contained in the Proposal Documents.

Proposal Documents for the above

referenced project may be obtained from the Worcester County Commissioner’s Office by either e-mailing the Procurement Officer at purchasing@worcestermd.gov , via the County’s on-line bid board, or through eMaryland Marketplace Advantage (eMMA) online at https://emma.maryland.gov.

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

A pre-proposal meeting will be held on July 8, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in the Worcester County Public Works Administration Building at 6113 Timmons Road, Snow Hill, MD.

All questions concerning this RFP must be submitted via no later than July 16, 2026, at noon.

Sealed Proposal Documents are due no later than July 30, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. and will be opened and only vendor names will be read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863.

Late Proposal Documents cannot be accepted.

Envelopes shall be marked “RFP – MD-611 Shared Use Path” in the lower left-hand corner.

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

OCD-6/25/1t

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21162 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JOAQUIN VILA BARRETO AKA: JOAQUIN SALVADOR VILA BARRETO

Notice is given that Marian Dolores Vila Barreto, 2 Mist Flower Rd., Berlin, MD 21811-1697, was on June 16, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Joaquin Vila Barreto who died on January 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 16th 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 16th 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 ear-

lier 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.

Marian Dolores Vila Barreto 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 26, 2026

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SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of DOROTHY A. BALLENBERGER Estate No. 21157 Notice is given that EILEEN P. TRUEBLOOD whose address is PO BOX 42, BERLIN, MD 21811-0042 was on JUNE 16, 2026 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of DOROTHY A. BALLENBERGER who died on SEPTEMBER 01, 2025 with a will.

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

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or

(2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County

ONE W MARKET STREET

ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE

SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

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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 July 9, 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(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 locally known as Quiet Storm. The Property is described as Lot 1B, Unit C, of the Revised Leeward Cay, Uptown Center Condominium Plat. It further described as being on the southwest corner of 123rd Street and Coastal Highway and is locally known as Quiet Storm Surf and Turf at 12207 Coastal Highway, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: QUIET STORM

SURF AND TURF (BZA 2745, #26-09400010) 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 Quiet Storm. It is described Lots 1, 2, and a portion of Lot 3, Block 108, of the Oceanbay City Plat. It is further described as being located on the northwest corner of 75th Street and Coastal Highway and is locally known as Quiet Storm at 7501 Coastal Highway, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: DAMON MAHONEY (BZA 2746, #26-09400011)

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,

B. RANDALL COATES ESQ 204 WEST GREEN STREET P O BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES

ESTATE NO. 21163

Notice is given that the Circuit/Probate Court of Orange County, Florida appointed STEVEN K SCHWARTZ, 5693 Graceful Way, Delray Beach, FL 33484-1317, as the personal representative of the Estate of STEVEN BULMER, who died on November 05, 2025 domiciled in Florida USA.

The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is B. RANDALL COATES, 204 W Green St., Snow Hill, MD 21863-1057.

At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: Worcester County.

Put Your Business Card Where It Gets Noticed

All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

Name of Newspaper: Ocean City Digest. Foreign Personal Representatives: Steven K. Schwartz. June 25, 2026 Date of first publication.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

OCD-6/25/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

is hereby given that the following vessel has apparently been abandoned for more than 180 days on the property of Racetrack Marine at 10438 Racetrack Rd Berlin, MD 21811 443-513-4176.

The Vessel is described as A 1997 Wellcraft 190 CCF 19’4 MD9591BD WELFUV68D797 white with a navy-blue stripe.

Application for title will be made in accordance with Section 8-722 of the Annotated Code of Maryland, Natural Resources Article if the vessel is not claimed and removed from the above property within 30 days of notice.

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Acadia Landing LEWES, DE

Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Mid $400s

ballenger creek HARBESON, DE

Coming Soon Single Family Homes

Bridgewater FRANKFORD, DE

Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Low $500s

deer creek LINCOLN, DE

Coming Soon Single Family Homes

forest landing ELLENDALE, DE

Now Selling Single Family Homes and Villas from the Upper $300s

Maaryland Delaware

four winds farm LTTON, DE

Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Upper $400s

rtty east MILLSBORO, , DE

Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Low $400s

Newdale acres ELLENDALE, DE

Now Selling–Phase II Single Family Homes from the Mid $300s

Pelican Point MILLSBORO, DE

Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Low $400s

rtton Chase MILLSBORO, , DE

Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Upper $300s

lakeside at trappe TRAPPE, MD

Now Selling Single Family Homes and Toownhomes from the Upper $200s

SOUTH SHORE Plantatio Lake ryyCl

MILLSBORO, DE

Now Selling Single Family Hom the Low $400s

sandT s Golf & Countr

Now Selling Villa Toownho from the Upper $200s

the oaks GEORGETOWN, Coming Soon Toownhomes

vines creek crossing FRANKFORD, DE

Coming Soon Single Family Ho Toownhomes, and Villas

Westwood MILFORD, DE

Coming Soon Single Family Ho and Villas

Tides at River Marsh

CAMBRIDGE, MD

Now Selling Single Family Hom Toownhomes from the Mid $

vanishing vanishing OCEAN CITY

With Bunk Mann

This rare photo shows the efforts made by the Army Corps of Engineers to dredge a channel on the bayside in 1947.

The white building next to the marina was the famous Ship Café and the adjoining vacant land is the location of today’s Harbour Island. St. Louis Avenue had not been extended northward at this time. The area between Philadelphia Avenue and the bay is being filled with dredged material to create more usable land.

The most northern hotel on the oceanfront was the original Commander while the water tower sits where the Ocean City Fire Department is today. Fifteenth Street had not been completed west of Philadelphia Avenue. The large building between 13th and 14th streets was the old Catholic home built in 1898. The last section of it was demolished in 2009.

To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com. Photo courtesy of Steve Smethurst

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

U.S. fans packing World Cup venues

The annual flag display on Route 589

Eating on the beach

Busy mornings, easy afternoons

Learning something new from old newspaper articles

Watching birds

Bleu cheese on a burger

Young athletes training to get better

Summer highs in the 80s

Restaurants who offer special in the summer, too

When it rains overnight

Land use laws for real estate field

local jurisdictions. The required elements are (1) land; (2) transportation; (3) housing; (4) economy; (5) equity; (6) resilience; (7) place; and (8) ecology.

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer

(June 26, 2026) This week’s legislative recap article covers legislation that passed during the 2026 449th Maryland General Assembly session, which convened on Jan. 14 and adjourned on April 13.

The summary covers “Land Use, Property Rights and the Environment” related legislation that passed as provided by the Maryland Realtors recap of all of the pertinent legislation affecting the real estate industry.

Land Use, Property Rights, and the Environment

SB 197/HB 243 Land Use - Comprehensive and General Plans Effective October 1, 2026

Modifies and reorganizes the elements that a local jurisdiction must include in a comprehensive or general plan so that the elements are consistent with state planning principles and apply consistently across all

HB 247 Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area Protection Program - Variance Effective October 1, 2026

Sets stricter rules for granting variances in critical area programs, including a presumption that existing accessory structures show reasonable use.

It prohibits variance applications for uses not allowed by zoning, changes to mitigation requirements, or relief available through other processes. Applicants must show substantial need, avoid protected habitat areas, and compare only to similar, legally approved structures in the same area.

HB 870 Permit Applications for New Buildings (Large Buildings for Tomorrow Act)– Effective October 1, 2026

Within 10 business days after a local government accepts a permit application for a new building that has a proposed gross floor area of 35,000 square feet or more and will be subject to Building Energy Performance Standards, the local gov-

ernment will provide notice of the permit application to MDE, along with the building location, energy source, and owner’s contact information. Amendments removed requirements for new buildings to be constructed to BEPS standards.

SB 872 Reduction of Lead RiskRental Dwelling Unit Definition Effective October 1, 2026

Expands the State’s Reduction of Lead Risk in Housing law to include certain single-room occupancies and shared living arrangements as “rental dwelling units.” Under the bill, the unit must either have or have access to permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation.

SB 739/HB 1219 Climate Change and Homeowner’s Insurance – Study Effective October 1, 2026

Requires the University System of Maryland to conduct a study to evaluate the relationship between climate change, the availability and price of homeowner’s insurance, and emergency and disaster preparedness. USM must submit a report of its findings and recommendations to the General Assembly by July 1, 2027.

Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record with Keller Williams Realty of Delmarva in Ocean City.

BZA to review cannabis dispensary proposal

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(June 26, 2026) A long-vacant former restaurant on Route 13 in Pocomoke City could become Worcester County's next cannabis dispensary under a pending proposal before the town's Board of Zoning Appeals.

Shreif Shata, 30, of Columbia, is seeking approval to operate a dispensary at 1621 Ocean Highway. Empty since 2013, the building used to be a Plaza Tapatia and a Bonanza Steakhouse.

Application materials describe the business as Summit Wellness and include floor plans and architectural renderings for a retail dispensary operating from the former restaurant.

Property records show the 9,489square-foot building was constructed in 1988 and sits on just under an acre of commercially zoned land along the

Route 13 corridor.

For now, two other dispensaries are already operating in Worcester County. Shata is currently the only person licensed by the Maryland Cannabis Administration who could open a third dispensary – but that license is scheduled to expire Aug. 7.

At issue now isn’t whether a dispensary is permissible on the property, but the site’s proximity to New Beginnings Outreach Ministries, a church on southbound Route 13.

Town law says dispensaries must be located at least 500 feet from Pocomoke’s houses of worship, schools, childcare centers, playgrounds, and parks.

Planning director Kristin Tremblay said the July 1 hearing will focus solely on whether the Board of Zoning Appeals should grant relief from

the town's 500-foot rule.

She added that state law limits how strictly local governments can regulate cannabis businesses, requiring them to be treated similarly to comparable retail uses such as liquor stores.

Shata had been scheduled for a June 3 BZA hearing but that was postponed after only a quorum of three board members attended, according to Tremblay. “The developers weren’t comfortable that they’d receive a favorable recommendation having a limited board,” she told OC Today-Dispatch.

The Pocomoke proposal marks Shata's second attempt to establish a dispensary in Worcester County.

Shate won the state’s licensing lottery for Worcester County in 2024 and as granted a conditional license in 2025, doing business as Guru Ventures. His dream had been to open up

shop in Ocean City but efforts to open a dispensary at 21st Street in Ocean City stalled after the site ran into municipal zoning obstacles.

Shata and his former business partner, Mike Ramadan, had spent months pursuing approvals before the project unraveled in a zoning dispute with the Town of Ocean City. That led to litigation, and Shata later withdrew as a plaintiff in the case.

The collapse of that venture led to a breach-of-contract lawsuit filed by Ramadan on April 2. The case is scheduled to be heard July 8 in Worcester County District Court.

Separately, Ramadan is appealing Ocean City's denial of the dispensary project to the Appellate Court of Maryland after a circuit court judge ruled that he lacked standing to challenge the decision without Shata's participation.

EXPERIENCE YOU CAN TRUST

Taxiway relocation initiative nearing finish at OC Airport

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(June 26, 2026) The first phase of a multi-million dollar improvement project at the Ocean City Municipal Airport is nearly complete.

Public Works Deputy Director Scott Wagner said this week that crews are finishing a months-long project to relocate a taxiway at the airport. With the first phase wrapping up, he said the public works department is now collecting bids for a terminal apron expansion project.

“This is all done with safety in mind,” he said in an interview this week.

Last fall, the city kicked off a project to relocate Taxiway A, which serves a neighboring runway. Per a staff report, the existing taxiway did not meet FAA design standards for runway separation. It had also met the end of its useful life.

City leaders selected a regional construction company to lead the $8 million project, which continued throughout the winter and spring and into the early part of the summer season. Despite the construction work, Wagner said there had been little impact on airport operations.

“Everything’s been status quo,” he said. “There were times we had to close one of the runways because they were doing electrical work. And then there were three or four days where we worked nights to minimize the closure of the air field.”

The next phase will begin this fall and focus on rehabilitating, expanding and reconfiguring the airport’s terminal apron to allow aircraft to park outside of the taxi lane object-free areas, a regulation set by the FAA. Improvements are projected to finish in May 2027.

“We’re just waiting for bids to come in,” Wagner said.

Wagner said the project will be covered in a funding split with the Federal Aviation Administration and the Maryland Aviation Administration, with the FAA funding 90% of the project and the MAA funding 5%. The city will fund the remaining 5%.

While construction costs are estimated at $8 million, Wagner said the actual amount has yet to be determined.

“The diesel fuel is killing us,” he said. “That’s the uncertainty right now.

County deputy appointed

(June 26, 2026) The Worcester County Commissioners named Seth Place as the new deputy finance officer.

Place, a certified public accountant (CPA), brings over 9 years of progressive experience in public accounting, specializing in tax, client accounting and advisory services (CAAS), and financial reporting and analysis. His experience spans over a variety of sectors, including private, nonprofit, and government.

“Seth brings a combination of financial expertise, leadership, and commitment to public service that will serve Worcester County well,” Commissioner President Ted Elder said. “As the county continues to modernize operations and strengthen its financial stewardship, we are confident Seth will play an important role in helping us meet those goals, while serving the residents with professionalism and integrity.”

Prior to joining Worcester County, Place served as a supervisor at PKS & Company, P.A., where he managed a high-volume of client accounts, built a strong technical foundation in tax compliance, financial reporting, and GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles). During his time at PKS, he ad-

vanced to a supervisory role managing a portfolio of over 100 clients and implemented process improvements that enhanced efficiency and accuracy. Before joining PKS, he served as a staff accountant at CG Accounting Group, LLC from 2017 to 2021.

“I’m excited to join Worcester County and support Finance Officer Starzhevskiy in the work of the Treasurer’s Office. My background in public accounting and financial reporting translates well to the duties of this position.

I’m grateful for the confidence the County Commissioners have placed in me. The Treasurer’s Office plays a large role in county operations, and I’m looking forward to contributing to its continued success,” Place said.

Place earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Maryland Global Campus, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Mathematics Education from Lock Haven University. After graduating, he began his career as a secondary mathematics teacher at Stephen Decatur Middle School from 2015 to 2017. Beyond his professional work,

Place serves as the Treasurer on the Executive Committee for the Coastal Hospice.

The deputy finance officer assists the finance officer in planning, organizing, coordinating, and directing the functions and activities of the Treasurer’s Office.

Station receives awards

Delmarva Public Media (DPM) recently was honored as one of the top broadcast outlets in the region, winning a station record 17 awards at the Chesapeake Associated Press Broadcasters Association’s (CAPBA’s) annual convention.

The eight first-place and nine second-place awards were for work done in 2025 for DPM, comprised of three listener-supported public radio stations that operate via a collaboration between Salisbury University and University of Maryland Eastern Shore: WSCL 89.5 FM, WSDL 90.7 FM, and WESM 91.3 FM.

“I am very proud of the work that our small but mighty team of professional and student reporters are doing each and every day here in our community,” said Bryan Russo, DPM chief content officer. “Local news coverage is getting harder and harder to do well in this ever-changing media

landscape, and these awards are a testament to the tenacity, dedication and their commitment to delivering thorough, interesting and objective news stories about our region.”

First-place awards went to reporter Kevin Diaz for “Best Enterprise Reporting” and “Outstanding Serious Feature,” while music director Stephen Philip Harvey and arts and culture reporter Jenny O’Connor won their first AP awards for “Best Specialty Reporting” and “Outstanding Sports Feature,” respectively.

Contributing Reporter Brian Shane won the “Outstanding Light Feature” category, and for the second consecutive year, DPM received a second-place award for best news organization in the Radio/Non-Metro Division.

In the College Radio division, DPM’s weekly, all-student-produced newscast, The Five Minute Fly-By, won first place for “Best Newscast.” UMES student journalist Sydney Rutledge Smith won for “Outstanding General News,” and Colin Bright, a summer intern from Bates College in Maine, won for “Outstanding Feature.”

Twenty-seven news organizations in Maryland; Delaware; and Washington, D.C., submitted 378 entries for the contest, which featured news and sports from 2025.

Two file for Berlin’s October council election

Jay Knerr

hopes to keep his at-large position while Tony Weeg aims for District 4

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(June 25, 2026) Berlin’s municipal election takes shape as two residents have announced their plans to run for seats that will be on the ballot this fall.

Berlin's Oct. 6 Town Council election will determine who will fill the three seats up for grabs on the municipality's five-person governing team. These include those currently belonging to Vice President Dean Burrell (District 4), Steve Green (District 1), and Jay Knerr (Councilman AtLarge).

So far, two candidates have filed.

Knerr, an incumbent, has said he is campaigning for reelection to the atlarge position, while resident Tony Weeg is running for Burrell’s District 4 seat. Burrell is stepping down from his post at the conclusion of this term.

Those elected to the Town Council each serve four-year terms, staggered among the members.

Weeg, the founder of the nonprofit We Heart Berlin, is running for the Berlin Council for the third time. His first attempt to break into the group was during a special election in 2020, after Thom Gulyas prematurely vacated the at-large seat. Weeg failed to secure enough votes, losing to Knerr, the top vote-getter.

Weeg campaigned in 2022 to represent District 4, but lost to Burrell. He is again seeking election to the

council’s District 4 seat. Weeg noted that Burrell has provided his blessing on the potential newcomer’s candidacy.

Weeg, who relocated to Berlin in 2018, said that he is excited about the prospect of serving his community.

The council hopeful notes that he can provide a fresh perspective to the Berlin Town Council with a focus on effective technology and communication methods. With his background in software development, Weeg created an information hub for quick access to past decisions during council meetings.

“One of the things I had over the winter … I made a system that ingested basically all the way from 2016 all the way up until now,” he said. “All of our historic meetings, planning commission meetings, our council meetings, our zoning appeal meetings, I put them into an AI system. I extracted the decisions, votes, and who voted for what, and created searchable, AI-driven data we can use during a meeting. Someday, someone can ask this system, ‘Hey, when we made this decision in December 2024, what was the outcome?’ So we’ll have a living memory system of meetings we can always refer to.”

When considering the town’s most pressing concerns, Weeg said the

council will eventually need to address the stalled tax rate.

The municipality's current property tax rate is $0.8275 per $100 of assessed value, despite Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall’s plea to bump the fee by 1.25 cents during the most recent budget season.

While Weeg maintains he is not in favor of raising taxes, he questions why the sitting council has retained the current rate even though staff has emphasized a financial need for minimal increases.

“I am not for raising taxes,” Weeg said. “I am for making the town run more efficiently with what we’ve got. I feel that if the current and former keep saying we need to raise them, then why didn’t they? Why did they pass the buck to future councils?”

He added that the council should begin considering the tax rate at the start of each fiscal year rather than two months before adoption.

Additionally, Weeg has said his priorities are to preserve the east side of town from development encroachment and advocate for more crosswalks throughout the municipal limits. Specifically, the candidate intends to push for a more “humansized” solution to pedestrian and bicycle safety.

Knerr, Weeg announce campaigns for office

Continued from Page 68

The municipality has discussed a possible bridge over Route 113 to connect the east side of Berlin to downtown, as the highway currently makes it nearly impossible for those without cars to travel between the two. Weeg maintains that an interconnected crosswalk system would be more accessible for those who walk or use bicycle transportation.

One of Weeg’s more ambitious projects is spearheading a “junior councilman" program. The initiative would allow residents interested in

government to shadow sitting representatives, in the hope that the experience would encourage them to run for office.

Weeg currently works as a photographer and videographer, as well as in software development.

In addition to Weeg, Knerr has announced he is campaigning for reelection to the at-large position.

Knerr ran for the seat in 2020 following Gulyas’ resignation. After finishing out Gulyas's remaining two years, Knerr won re-election in 2022 and has now filed for the 2026 elec-

tion cycle.

Knerr said that during his six years on the council, he is especially proud of the group’s commitment to a steady tax rate while maintaining necessary town services, advancing development and community-based projects, and making continuous efforts to ensure Berlin holds on to its unique historic character.

Knerr highlighted the council's efforts last year to sell the former, dilapidated chicken-processing plant at Heron Park to developer Palmer Gillis. The initiative to transform the derelict site into a commercial property is moving forward.

Mon-Fri, 9am-4pm 12430 Old Bridge Rd., West OC 2BR/2BA

2-4pm 6201 Coastal Highway, Unit #806, Ocean City 4BR/3BA

Saturday 10:30am-12:30pm 745 Mooring Rd #202, Ocean City 2BR/2BA

Saturday 10:30am-12:30pm 624 94th Street Unit 129, Ocean City 3BR/2BA

Saturday 10:30am-12:30pm 12971 Inlet Isle Lane, Ocean City 5BR/5BA

Saturday 11am-1pm 12021 River Run Lane, Berlin 5BR/3.5BA

Saturday 11am-1pm 58 Hingham Lane, Ocean Pines 4BR/2.5BA

Saturday 11am-1pm 4505 Burbage Crossing Rd., Pittsville 3BR/3BA

Saturday 11am-2pm 11530 Country Club Dr., South Pt/Berlin 3BR/3.5BA

Sat & Sun 11am-3pm 12430

Those concerns include striking a balance between year-round residents' interests and remaining a lively tourist destination, as well as continuing to grow without sacrificing the small-town aesthetic.

“We fought off the big developers, we don’t see sprawl,” Knerr said. “... I think one of the biggest projects is protecting our neighborhoods' community and character. We don’t want this massive growth to spread. It would not serve our town well.”

‘I think one of the biggest projects is protecting our neighborhoods' community and character. We don’t want this massive growth to spread. It would not serve our town well.’

Jay Knerr

Furthermore, the governing team reinvigorated efforts to build a community center and has secured $1.4 million for conceptual plans and preconstruction work.

“That’s a project that has been going nowhere for years and years and years until this mayor and council took the initiative to start moving it forward,” he said.

Knerr outlined some priorities he hopes to address.

June 25 - July 2

The incumbent also hopes to continue securing grants to address aging infrastructure, roads, and sidewalk maintenance, ensure the police department is fully staffed and equipped, and maintain a stable tax rate.

Knerr is originally from Massachusetts. He moved to the Eastern Shore in the 1980s and settled in Berlin in 2000. He is a longtime business owner of the Ocean City Kite Loft and has served on the Ocean City Chamber of Commerce and the TidalHealth Atlantic Board of Trustees.

Reither/Coldwell

Landon/Coldwell Banker Realty

Cathy Soule/Coldwell Banker Realty

Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty

Sandra Dougan/BHHS PenFed Realty

Rob & Anne-Marie Bouse/RE/MAX/Advantage Realty

Snow Hill makes mysterious river discovery

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(June 26, 2026) A mysterious woodand-metal frame snagged and hauled from the Pocomoke River has left Snow Hill authorities wondering exactly what they’ve got on their hands.

“We’re still scratching our heads on it, actually,” Snow Hill Police Chief Andy McGee said.

Police were contacted June 19 when a person who was magnet fishing – the increasingly popular practice of casting a strong magnet on a fishing line into waterways – found something underwater near the Byrd Park boat ramp, near the basketball courts.

McGee said a sonar scan showed what appeared to be a vehicle frame. Not knowing what they were dealing with, police requested help from the Ocean City Police Department’s dive team.

Divers spent about two hours in the silty, murky river before crews recovered a large wooden frame with metal cross supports.

McGee said the item could have been part of an old trailer, wagon, boxcarstyle frame, or a railroad cart once used to haul materials.

“What we recovered – we don’t think it was a vehicle,” he said. “All the experts on the scene aren’t 100% sure.”

The frame included two 6-by-6 wooden beams and metal rods spaced

about 3.5 to 4 feet apart, McGee said, a configuration that appeared consistent with an old cart, wagon or trailer.

He also said he does not believe the item predates the 1900s, because the metal likely would have rusted away by now.

The river did not give up its answer easily. McGee said the water was dark enough that divers could not make out the object underwater, and the brackish channel had a swift current. The water

is only about 10.5 feet deep in that area, but conditions made the search difficult.

When the frame was pulled up, McGee said, it had several dozen fishing lines attached to it. The dive team’s spokesman did not return a request for comment.

“People have been losing their lures on this particular piece of wood for many, many years,” he said.

For now, the item remains unidentified. A June 19 Facebook post by the Snow Hill Police Department had been viewed more than 190,000 times, McGee said.

Police also believe there may be more metal in the area. McGee said the magnet attached to additional material, and boaters have reported striking something while backing away from the ramp. Some had assumed they were hitting debris or a log.

The Maryland Natural Resources Police are expected to bring a more advanced sonar machine after July 4 to conduct a detailed scan of the boat ramp area and bulkhead around the park. Depending on what the scan shows, McGee said crews may need to bring in an excavator.

Baltimore Aquarium returns rehabbed sea turtles to wild

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(June 26, 2026) A crowd gathered at the 40th Street beach in Ocean City last week to bid farewell to nine sea turtles following their stay at the National Aquarium in Baltimore.

On June 18, the National Aquarium Animal Rescue team released the rehabilitated sea turtles back into the wild, albeit with new names borrowed from the Baltimore neighborhoods of St. Paul, Fells Point, Glen, Mount Vernon, Hamilton, Cherry Hill, Little Italy, Lakeland and Brooklyn. The turtles were among the 40 that arrived in Baltimore after being rescued from the cool waters off Cape Cod last December.

“We are always so happy to be able to share the release of successfully re-

habilitated sea turtles with our community,” Director of Animal Rescue Malia Hale said. “Public releases allow Aquarium members and friends to see the results of the rehab work that we undertake each year. It’s our hope that seeing the turtles up close inspires people to care for our ocean and the animals we share it with.”

The nine turtles were among those treated for cold stunning – a pneumonia-like condition that occurs in sea turtles that are caught in cold water as temperatures drop in the fall. Their release, the aquarium reports, puts the rescue team one step closer to the end of another animal rescue season.

Twenty-nine sea turtles from the original 40 that were rehabilitated at the National Aquarium in recent months were released from Oak Island, N.C., in April. Another died last year, while another continues to receive long-term care at the aquarium’s off-exhibit rehab pool.

“The one turtle remaining in the aquarium’s care – Patterson Park – is being treated for a recently detected mycobacterial infection, a course of treatment that typically takes about three months,” a news release reads. “Because this winter was colder than normal both See TURTLES Page 77

PHOTO COURTESY NATIONAL AQUARIUM

The National Aquarium Animal Rescue team released nine sea turtles back into the ocean on 40th Street in Ocean City last week upon the creatures’ successful recovery.

Berlin Police eye $118K surplus for bonuses

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(June 26, 2026) The Berlin Town Council this week authorized the use of up to $118,000 in police department salary savings to fund retention bonuses for current officers and recruitment incentives for new hires to remain competitive with neighboring law enforcement agencies.

The funding comes from a projected surplus in the Berlin Police Department’s fiscal year 2026 salary account, created by four vacant officer positions. Police Chief Howard Drewer told council members Monday night that the proposal would not require any additional town funding. The project is intended as a temporary measure while officials work toward a long-term compensation strategy.

“We request to reinvest a portion of the existing salary savings back into the workforce,” Drewer said. “This is a Band-Aid; this is not a fix.”

According to a staff report recommending the program, approximately $118,000 remains in the salary account after all projected payroll obligations through the end of the fiscal year have been satisfied. Drewer initially proposed using $100,000 of that amount for retention bonuses and $10,000 for recruitment incentives.

The department’s retention program will apply to nine current non-ex-

empt employees. Participating officers will be required to sign an agreement committing to remain employed with the Berlin Police Department through July 1, 2027. Employees who voluntarily leave before that date would be required to repay based on the provisions outlined in the agreement.

Drewer said the department’s starting salary, recently increased by 5%, now sits at $64,600 annually. However, he noted that several surrounding law enforcement agencies have raised starting salaries up to $70,000 and above.

“A lot of the agencies in the region around us have increased their salaries into the $70,000 range,” Drewer said. “… If we continue to fall behind in these areas, we will continue to lose people.”

The chief said the department lost four officers over the past year. He added that retaining existing personnel remains a greater challenge than recruiting new ones.

“Berlin does not have a recruitment problem,” Drewer said. “We have two right now that we are looking at bringing on board here in the next couple weeks. We’re getting them into the door. We, like many agencies, have a retention problem.”

The proposal also includes $10,000 in recruitment incentives for

two Maryland-certified police officer candidates currently undergoing the hiring process. Under the plan, each candidate would receive a one-time $5,000 incentive payment upon successful appointment.

Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall said maintaining adequate staff levels is a problem in all factions of public safety.

“This is a common theme we’re hearing in public safety as a whole,” Tyndall said. “… The labor pool is tight. It’s difficult to recruit police officers.”

Tyndall noted that the salary surplus exists because existing officers have worked additional shifts to cover vacancies.

“When you’re looking at the vacancies that led to this budgeted salary surplus, there’s a lot behind that,” he said. “You have a team that has doubled down and worked hard and filled in all those gaps of four people.”

Councilman Jay Knerr asked whether Drewer anticipated neighboring agencies continuing to raise salaries.

“I think yes,” Drewer replied. “Do I think it’s going to continue into next year? That has yet to be seen.”

Drewer noted that some jurisdictions will likely struggle to sustain increases in compensation due to a limited tax base.

“Three of the departments that significantly increased outside of the

county, I don't think they have the tax base that will be able to continue to support that,” he said. “One of those being Salisbury. It’s going to be hard for them to continue that pace.”

Tyndall emphasized that the proposal is a temporary measure and not a long-term salary solution.

“It’s a one-time bonus,” he said. “As Drewer said, it’s a Band-Aid. It gets us through FY27. It does not increase salaries long term, although that is something we’re going to need to take a real hard look at.”

Councilmember Steve Green questioned why the town would limit the program to $100,000 when approximately $118,000 was available. He added that retaining a reliable police force is beneficial to the town’s community spirit, as well as public safety efforts.

“When we know the officer and we see them at events and can wave to them, it means a lot,” Green said. “I would support the total $118,000.”

Drewer responded that department leaders wanted to maintain a financial cushion but would be open to using the entire surplus balance.

The council ultimately approved a motion allowing the department to use up to $118,000 from the FY26 salary surplus for the retention and recruitment initiative. The vote was unanimous with Vice President Dean Burrell absent.

Opinions

Congratulations to election victors

Congratulations to the winners, and in some cases, the survivors, of Tuesday’s primary elections in Worcester County. For them, the race is over and the contest is won.

Facing no opposition in the general election this fall, these victors from Tuesday will begin serving on the Worcester County Board of County Commissioners in December: Joe Mitrecic in District 7, Lou Taylor of District 6, Steve Green from District 4, Eric Fiori from District 3, Roxie Dennis in District 2 and Caryn Abbott in District 1.

For Joe Schanno in District 5, the finals in that contest won’t take place until the first Tuesday in November. This assumes Schanno, who holds a slim lead over Chip Bertino, survives the absentee ballot count. If he does, he will face Democrat Vicky Wallace in that contest.

What is official regardless of November’s election results is the welcome demise of the misguided four-member commissioner majority that seemed to pride itself on sticking it to the board of education at budget time every year.

Its end was almost guaranteed when Commissioner Jim Bunting decided not to seek reelection after serving four terms beginning in 2010. He decision to step down allowed Taylor to step up and, facing lesser-known opposition, bust up that anti-education core group.

Meanwhile, Green knocked off Elder to lock up the District Four seat, giving long-suffering Commissioner Mitrecic a clique-free board to work with as they take — we hope — a kinder, more reasoned approach to covering the cost of education in the county.

Tuesday’s election also should deliver a big change in style at the county government level. A more low-key approach to doing business with the communities should prove fruitful, considering that the adversarial style of the past four years caused as many problems as it solved.

— Stewart Dobson

Dumb smart watch

I have a dumb smart watch. The way I see it is if my smart watch was truly smart, it would know when to shut up, but no. It just goes on and on.

NEWS

EDITOR STEWART DOBSON; EXECUTIVE EDITOR STEVE GREEN

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By Stewart Dobson

As I recounted not long ago, I was wandering the aisles of the grocery store and indulging my penchant for hanging out in the snack food section, when my watch beeped and showed the message: “It looks like you’ve had a hard fall. Should I call 911?”

I’m not kidding. This watch will really do that, even though I did not then and do not now have any idea what caused it to arrive at the conclusion.

Nevertheless, it could not be persuaded otherwise and held steadfast to that belief despite anything I might do. This included repeatedly pounding the watch face and saying, “No, no, no. Bad watch.”

“I repeat,” the watch countered after taking a good beating. “You’ve had a hard fall. I’m calling 911.”

“Oh no, you’re not!” I argued.

“Oh yes, I am ...”

You know, it’s not like the old days when you walked the l-o-o-o-ong way around someone when they appeared to be talking to themselves.

Today, you just assume they’re on a call. Still, you do get some side-eye when it appears that you’re yelling at your wrist for no reason, which is what I did until I popped the watch’s crown about 50 times — whamwham-wham-wham — until it stopped responding.

And yet, as much as this watch is already a marvel of technology, it’s headed in a direction that might be even more unwelcome.

My greatest fear is that one day it, and other smart watches like it, will take all the personal information they have accumulated from their interactions with their owners and produce individually tailored personal assistant apps ... patterned after your mother.

I know how that would work and it’s not good. I would be in a men’s store admiring a pleasingly rowdy Hawaiian shirt of some kind when my watch would pipe up: “You don’t want that.”

That’s what my mother said many times whenever I was interested in buying something, anything, that didn’t quite match what she was thinking.

“Hey, look at those nifty shoes!”

“You don’t want them.”

“I’m thinking of buying this beat up old trailer on the river.”

“You don’t want to live there.”

“I’m going to grow a Fu Manchu mustache.”

“You don’t want one of those.”

“I’m thinking of buying a dumb watch that has no special features, won’t show me my blood pressure, heart rate or outdoor temperature, or keep track of my medications, the interest rates, receive phone calls and ...

“You don’t want that,” the watch suddenly interjects.

“Oh, I think I do,” I say. “Unless you shut up and mind your own business.”

“OK, that’s it.”Now I’m positive. You have taken a hard fall and aren’t thinking straight. I’m definitely calling 911. And just wait until your father gets home.”

PUBLIC EYE

Between the Lines

By Steve Green

(Editor’s Note: It’s important to acknowledge I was a successful candidate for the District 4 County Commissioner race on Tuesday. Excluding that district, here are some observations from the primary election.)

• According to the Maryland State Board of Elections, voter turnout in Worcester County was 20% with 6,692 voters of the total 33,718 eligible voters exercising their right to vote through early voting and election day. The turnout number will improve, as the county had more than 2,000 mail-in ballots to count yesterday, but it’s not likely to reach the 30% total voter turnout seen in the 2022 gubernatorial primary in Worcester.

• Local turnout was low, but Worcester’s voter turnout percentage of 20% exceeded the statewide average of 17%. The county’s early voting and election day turnout was down 3% from the 2022 gubernatorial primary when 6,865 came out. It’s a disappointing turnout because early voting was up 30% compared to the early voting period in 2022. The thunderstorms throughout election day may have impacted.

• As far as by district in the county, based on election day counts only, it was District 1 that brought out the most voters after an analysis of votes cast for the commissioner candidates. District 1 had 793 total election day votes for the three commissioner candidates with incumbent Caryn Abbott receiving 437 of them (55%). District 3 was next with 711 election day votes cast in the two-person commissioner race with incumbent Eric Fiori (58%) winning a second term.

• With no Democratic challenger in November, Worcester County Sheriff Matt Crisafulli cruised to his third term as expected with a strong performance. With early voting and election day combined, Crisafulli received 3,992 votes, or 86%, over challenger Jeff Buhrt. Crisafulli defeated Buhrt in similar fashion in 2022. Back in 2018, Crisafulli won the four-person Republican primary to become Sheriff, replacing Reggie Mason. Crisafulli emerged with 45% of the vote (2,341) with fellow Republican Mike McDermott receiving 42% (2,217 votes).

• Pocomoke Councilman CL Marshall’s bid to become the next delegate to replace Charles Otto in District 38A took a major step forward on Tuesday. With all 37 precincts across the three counties counted, Marshall received 2,011 votes, or 58%, over Tim Howlett, 1,451 votes. Marshall rode his home county to the win, receiving more than half of his total votes in Worcester (1,070 to Howlett’s 441 votes). In fact, Marshall actually lost the other two counties by slim margins – Howlett won his home Somerset County by 67 votes and took Wicomico by just two votes. Marshall’s dominance in Worcester won him the seat and it’s a path to victory he will want to follow in the general election.

• In the governor’s race, it will be a rematch between Democrat Wes Moore and Republican Dan Cox. In 2022, Moore dominated and won handily, taking 65% of the vote over Cox’s 32%. Moore will be the huge favorite once again and will most likely cruise to another easy win. It was mildly surprising Cox received such huge support again because it’s a favorable matchup for Moore, who can simply paint his opponent once again as far too right for the blue state.

• In Worcester County, Cox led the crowded primary, receiving 2,287 votes with Ed Hale a distant second with 1,237 votes. Statewide, Cox earned 45% of the Republican vote compared to Hale’s 36%.

• For the District 1 Congressional seat, it will be incumbent Andy Harris against Democrat Dan Schwartz in the November general election. Harris dominated across the district, winning 81% of the vote, as well as in Worcester, where he received 3,792 votes to challenger Chris Bruneau’s 872 votes. On the Democratic side, Schwartz received 46% of the vote (11,765 votes) across the district to beat three other opponents, including Randi White who finished in second with 37% of the vote (9,642 votes). Schwartz won all the counties in the district except Somerset and Wicomico where White did well. In Worcester, Schwartz won with 756 votes compared to White’s 651.

• The Maryland State Board of Elections should seriously consider a reduction in the number of early voting days in future elections. For this primary, as in most other recent elections, there were eight days set aside for early voting. The turnout shows it’s too many days. The highest interest is seen on the first and last days historically with the middle days seeing very low turnout. For instance in Worcester County, there were 123 voters total on Saturday and Sunday of early voting. A total of 1,566 early voters showed up over eight days. It’s a waste of money to pay the elections personnel to be there 13 hours per day with those paltry numbers. I personally think four days is enough for early voting. In Worcester, the location needs to be far more centralized for fairness.

Kitchen & Dining Area. Washer/Dryer, Enclosed Front Porch. 8 x 10 Shed. Call Tony Matrona 410-641-1671

War with Iran to increase crab prices this season

Editor,

Crabbers can’t win. The crab population is projected to be nearly 50% higher than last season, which would normally mean lower prices at the seafood, increased demand for steamed crabs and enhanced profits for those who pull hundreds of pots every day.

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Gorgeous Turn Key 2 Bedroom 2 Bath with Ocean, Bay & City Views. Southern Exposure provides lots of Natural Light. This Beautiful condo is a larger unit with LVP flooring in the living area. Fully equipped kitchen with Stainless Steel Appliances & Granite Countertops. Master Bedroom with King Bed & en suite with Walk in shower. Washer/Dryer in Unit. Updated Hot Water Heater & HVAC. Call Tony Matrona 410-641-1671

Then the Trump administration stepped in with its ill-advised war against Iran. Diesel prices spiked, and crab prices will rise likewise. Fuel and bait prices have risen 150%. This year a bushel of large male crabs will cost $350 to $500; a pound of jumbo lump will demand $60.00.

Competition from seafood imports continues to hold down prices for watermen. Venezuelan crab costs much less than crab from the Chesapeake. The Trump administration, following its partial takeover of the country, is in no position to protest the cost differences or to levy higher tariffs on Venezuelan imports for fear of throwing an already fragile economy into a tailspin. Venezuelans are taking to the streets every day to protest high prices and low income. Donald

Trump said of the situation “Venezuelans are very happy.” How does he get that idea?

Well crabbers are not happy. Local farmers and watermen, and their rural neighbors, have all been battered by the policies of Trump and the Republican party, including Congressman Andy Harris who has voted in favor of Trump policies 94% of the time. It is long past time for a major change in leadership.

Ronald W. Pilling Bishopville

Businesses that help the OC Lions Club give back Editor,

The Ocean City Lioness Lions Club would like to take this opportunity to let the community know what wonderful business people we have in the greater Ocean City area. Over and over again, these good folks are asked to donate to one cause or another. Yet, they keep on giving and giving. Because of their generosity so many people are helped. The Ocean City Lioness Lions Club gives over $6,000 in scholarships each year, donates thousands of dollars to the schools in northern Worcester County and for other children's Continued on Page 77

Turtles released in Ocean City

Continued from Page 72

in our immediate region and along the East Coast, this season’s crop of rehabilitating turtles stayed at the aquarium longer than is typically expected.”

Turtles suffering from cold stunning are triaged to organizations like the National Aquarium, which participates in the Sea Turtle Stranding and Salvage Network. The organization, overseen by NOAA, helps coordinate emergency response and data collection with its partners.

As they recover and grow, each animal in the care of the National Aquarium’s health and rescue teams is assessed before it is cleared for release, the aquarium says. In order to be considered eligible for release, each turtle must be fully recovered from any injuries and infections, and able to swim and forage for food independently.

In recent years, the National Aquarium has reported an uptick in the number of turtles affected by cold stunning, with experts attributing the increase to rising ocean temperatures that encourage turtles to migrate further north.

When those turtles become stunned, the aquarium says they become disoriented and easily entrapped in the geographical features of the coastline, such as the “hook” of Cape Cod, where the 40 turtles were rescued last year.

At the federal level, the National Aquarium is championing bipartisan legislation that would create funding to support sea turtle conservation. Currently, the aquarium’s Animal Rescue program receives no federal dollars for its rescue rehabilitation work.

However, with the support of the Town of Ocean City, the National Aquarium has maintained a yearround Stranding Response Center at

Fish Tales to host hot dog eating contest on July 4

(June 26, 2026) On July 4, Fish Tales Bar and Grill, located on 22nd Street bayside in Ocean City, will host its annual Hot Dog Eating Contest in the south parking lot at noon.

This amateur competition is open to anyone over the age of 18. The winner will receive at least a $1,000 cash prize, a trophy, and bragging rights for an entire year.

The public is invited to come, grab a cold drink from the bars and watch this family fun event. Contestants can enter now until noon on July 4. The competition will start at 2 p.m. and there will be seating available to watch the competition.

The first 20 people to pre-register will be the contestants. To register, please visit the Bahia Marina Tackle Shop to sign up. A registration fee of $10 is required to hold your spot. You must sign a waiver to participate.

COURTESY NATIONAL AQUARIUM

The National Aquarium returned nine sea tur-

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

activities, as well as many more charitable and needy entities. None of this would be possible without the help and support of our business community.

the public works complex in midtown Ocean City. The center, named in honor of longtime animal rescue volunteers Ellen and Chuck Erbe, provides a base for Eastern Shore rescue and triage activities for seals and sea turtles that strand along the coast. The Aquarium encourages the public to report stranded animals to the National Aquarium’s Animal Stranding Hotline at 410-576-3880 while maintaining a safe distance from wildlife on beaches.

We truly thank each and every business that made a donation to our Spring In Full Bloom Fashion Show by CraZy LadyZ at the Ocean Pines Yacht Club. When people are out and about in the community, please support these generous businesses who help so many community service organizations and clubs in our great home town. If we have missed anyone below, please forgive us and know that you are appreciated.

Acupuncture OCMD, Applebee’s, Blue Bird Farms, Bulk More, Burley Oak, Candy Kitchen, Caprichos Book Store, Carrabba’s, Chic Fil A, Classic Cakes, Coastal Salt, Coins, Cracker Barrel, CraZy LadyZ, Del Vecchio’s, Denny’s, Dough Roller, Dunkin’, East Coast Garden Center, Fager’s Island, Fenwick Shores, Flagship Cinema, Flamingo Coast, Flowers by Alison, Food Lion, Fun City Arcade, Funcade Arcade, Gold Coast Mall, Green Turtle, Harborside, The Hobbit, Hooters, Island Creamery, Jersey Mikes, Jiffy Lube, Jolly Roger, LaTolteca, Longboard Café, McDonalds, Melia's Café, My Back Yard, Nori Sushi, OC Nails, OC Today Dispatch, Ocean City Organics, Ocean Elements, Ocean Pines Yacht Club, Outback, Panera Bread, Paradise Pizza, Park Place Hotel, Paws & Claws,

Pit & Pub, PopCe’s Ice Cream, Rayne’s Reef, Sassy Girl, Sea Bay Hotel, Seacrets, Serpone’s Pizza, Somerset Jewelers, Sophia’s, Starbucks, Sterling Tavern, Tap House, Tequila Mockingbird, Thirst No More, Wawa, West-O Bottle Shop, Windmill Creek, Yogavibez

Thank you for giving the Ocean City Lioness Lions Club the space to recognize those businesses who are willing to step up and help the less fortunate in our community.

Donna Greenwood

(The writer is the president of the Ocean City Lioness Lions Club.) Continued from Page 76

All letters are subject to editing for clarity and potentially libelous material

PHOTO

tles to the Ocean City waters last week after they were successfully treated for cold stunning in Baltimore.

BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

JUDY GRAY HUDSON

Bishopville

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Judy Gray Hudson of Bishopville, MD who departed from this life peacefully on June 19, 2026. Judy was born on September 12, 1944 in Lewes, DE to the late Orville T. Gray and Doris (Layfield) Gray.

Judy was a former employee of the Furniture House, and Taylor Bank both in Berlin. She was proud to support her husband as being the “head bookkeeper” of Hudson‘s Marine Railway and Fishin’ Mission Charter Fishing. She was also a member of the Ocean City Marlin Club and Wilson United Methodist Church. She was an avid Baltimore Orioles and Raven’s fan and dearly loved being a part of the Ocean City fishing community.

Judy is survived by her children,

Marty J. Hudson (Melody Reese) and Kimberly H. Marowski (Joseph); brother, Ronnie Gray (Diane); sister, Theresa Hurley (Ronnie); grandchildren, Natalie (Matthew), Joey III (Rachel), and Andrew, and well as several nephews and nieces. Lastly she loved her canine companion Lilly and her beloved grand dogs, Rigger, and Evie.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Walter "Captain Jimmy" Hudson, sister-in-law Marilyn Bertrand and nephew Roddie Hudson.

A funeral service will be held on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at 2 p.m. at the Bishop-Hastings Funeral Home, 19 S. Main Street, Selbyville, DE. A visitation will be held one hour before the service. Casual dress is requested by the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the Ocean City Reef Foundation, P.O. Box 1072, Ocean City, MD 21843 or Coastal Hospice, P.O. Box 1733, Salisbury, MD 21802.

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Town Of Ocean City Job Opportunities

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com

BRUCE ROBERT TODD Bishopville

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Bruce Robert Todd, of Bishopville, MD, who departed this life on June 19, 2026, at the age of 75. He was born on October 31, 1950 in Salisbury, MD, to the late Robert W. Todd and Joy (Esham) Todd.

Bruce was a school bus contractor for the Worcester County Board of Education. He was honored to serve as a Past Master of Evergreen Lodge #153 and was a devoted member of the Scottish Rite, York Rite, and Boumi Temple Shriners. His commitment to these organizations illustrated his dedication to service, leadership, and fellowship.

Bruce is survived by his wife of 55 years, Starlett Y. Todd; daughter, Renee Todd; son, Jed Todd; and his siblings, Mark Todd, Joel Todd, Hannah Wilgus, and Sarah Todd; grandchildren, Kristopher Todd, Aidan Keyworth, Caleb Keyworth, and Amelia Pittman; great-grandchildren, Grayson Todd and Kolten Todd. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know him.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Aaron B. Todd.

A Graveside service will be held on June 27, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Evergreen Cemetery, located at 10601 Assateague Road, Berlin, MD 21811.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Shriners Children's 5050 King Ave., Baltimore, MD 21237 or Somerset Community Services, P.O. Box 18, Marion, MD. 21838.

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com.

Bruce Todd

Judy Hudson

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-

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

■ 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.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

ANNUAL SMALL BOAT TOURNEY HELD

The 47th Annual Small Boat Tournament, sponsored by the Ocean City Marlin Club, was held last weekend with an awards ceremony on Sunday. Top left, sweeping the seabass division was the Cherry O’s with the beauties on display. Top right, the team of the Crusin’ It took home second place in the bluefin tuna division with a 50.8-pounder. Above left, the OG Reel Estate team took home first-, second- and third-place wins in the flounder division with these beauties including one weighing 6.4 pounds. Above right, the crew of the Lady Faye placed third for the yellowfin tuna that weighed 49.6 pounds.