A new Ocean City government personnel policy addresses instances of intimate relationships between co-workers and family members working together by requiring the parties involved to advise the city of it in writing. — PAGE 13
Ocean City seeks anti-takeover law
Officials discuss measure patterned after the law that put the brakes on pop-up car rallies. — PAGE 3
City hopes to buy, not seize property
Council wants to avoid exercising eminent domain to get downtown space for parking lots. — PAGE 12
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OC seeking state legislation to mitigate takeover events
Maryland leaders asked to target trend of unruly and harmful pop-up gatherings
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(July 3, 2026) Ocean City officials are working with state government leaders to create legislation that would curb illegal and destructive activities surrounding “takeover” events.
In early June, Mayor Rick Meehan penned a letter to Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, state leaders and members of the Eastern Shore delegation describing the rise in takeover events.
In recent years, these gatherings, organized by promoters on social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, have brought large crowds to specific locations throughout the state “with the intent to disrupt, intimidate, damage property, and create chaos in our communities,” Meehan said.
For Ocean City, a takeover event organized online brought hundreds of participants to town for last year’s Independence Day celebrations. The weekend, in turn, was marred by a Boardwalk stampede, large gatherings on streets and beaches, and a reported shooting.
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. Now, they are pushing for state legislation that would give local governments and law enforcement agencies additional tools to address those events before they escalate.
up car rallies the city experienced in 2020, “only without the cars.” The events, he added, have placed citizens, visitors, business owners and law enforcement officers at risk, and have overwhelmed local resources.
“We cannot continue to stand by and allow organized lawlessness to spread from community to community without consequences,” he wrote.
Some of the proposed measures include: criminal penalties for those who organize or promote unlawful takeover events that result in violence, property damage, assault or public disruption; enhanced penalties for repeat offenders and those who encourage minors to participate in criminal activity; the ability for law enforcement to pursue restitution for damages or extraordinary public safety costs; and stronger partnerships with social media companies to quickly remove content that promotes illegal activity or imminent public safety threats.
In response to his letter, Moore arranged a meeting between Meehan, Ocean City Manager Terry McGean, Moore’s deputy chief of staff, Travis Nelson, and Maryland Department of Juvenile Services Acting Secretary Betsy Fox Tolentino.
‘It’s not about eliminating free speech or the right to assembly, but about these social media promoters or influences that are spearheading these gatherings on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. There is an issue. There is a problem.’
Rick Meehan, Mayor
“In many of these instances, juveniles are pulled into these activities …,” Meehan said this week, “and they are the ones left behind when this trouble starts.”
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“It’s not about eliminating free speech or the right to assembly, but about these social media promoters or influences that are spearheading these gatherings on platforms like TikTok and Instagram …,” Meehan said in an interview Tuesday. “There is an issue. There is a problem.”
Meehan said that over the last year, he has had numerous conversations with other elected officials and mayors who have experienced similar issues in their jurisdictions. He said there have also been informal discussions at the mayor and City Council level about holding the organizers accountable.
“This isn’t just an Ocean City issue. It’s an issue that’s taking place statewide,” he said. “So, we are looking to begin the conversation at the state level, to see what we can do.”
In his letter to state leaders, Meehan likened the takeovers to the pop-
Meehan was also able to make his legislative pitch at a “Shark Tank” session held during a recent Maryland Municipal League conference in Ocean City. There, a panel consisting of Del. Michael Griffith (R-35A), Del. Jeff Ghrist (R-36) and Sen. Cheryl Kagen (D-17) heard the mayor’s argument for why the legislation was needed.
“The response was very positive,” Meehan said. “Two legislators were very much in favor, and the third said she was interested but needed more information.”
Moving forward, Meehan said he hopes for a bill to be presented in the 2027 Maryland General Assembly session.
In the meantime, he said numerous jurisdictions – including Montgomery and Prince George’s counties, Ellicott City and Denton, for example – continue to deal with takeover events.
“It’s a statewide issue, and it’s something we need to work together to resolve,” he said. “The automobile bill has been helpful, and I think this is the same type of effort we need to engage in, to try and address these takeover events.”
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(July 3, 2026) Still mired in federal hiring delays, Assateague Island National Seashore will not have a lifeguarded beach on its Maryland side over the Fourth of July weekend, park officials said.
Instead, the Maryland beach will operate under what Superintendent Hugh Hawthorne called “responseonly lifeguarding,” with one lifeguard available to respond to emergencies.
“We don’t have enough lifeguards to have a full lifeguard program out there, so we’re not calling it a lifeguarded beach,” Hawthorne told OC Today-Dispatch on Wednesday.
That marks a reversal from two months ago, when park officials reported that they expected to have a fully lifeguarded beach from mid-
June through mid-August, with weekend staffing continuing through the final two weeks of August. Full staffing is 10 to 12 guards, Hawthorne said.
The lack of lifeguards this week comes after bystanders reported that multiple swimmers were caught in rip currents Tuesday afternoon at an unguarded section of beach and pulled farther into the ocean.
Brock Brungard, a firefighter/EMT from Pennsylvania, wrote on Facebook that he and others safely pulled eight swimmers from the water, including a little boy who had been swept out in the strong current.
“At that point, I was yelling for people to call 911,” he wrote, “because I knew I wasn’t getting to all of them. Lucky my girlfriend’s family jumped
in and got to the father who was over 150 feet out and were able to escape the current and bring him in.”
Beach visitor Mary Bekker said her brother-in-law was among those who helped bring swimmers to safety on Tuesday. She said the stands were up but there were no lifeguards – and no signs telling visitors to swim at their own risk.
“I think with the sandbar many people get too confident and don’t realize that’s the most dangerous spot for rips and get taken out,” she said by email, “so they really do need guards there.”
Rescue units from the Berlin Fire Company also were at the scene, according to the agency’s run log.
For now, the six lifeguards currently on staff at the National Seashore are being posted to the
park’s Virginia side because those waters are more dangerous and prone to rip currents, Hawthorne said.
“We made a decision that it’s better to fully staff one of the beaches than to partially staff both of them,” Hawthorne said. “I don’t feel great about it, but I think we’re staffed to the level where we can ensure public safety.”
Also factoring into that decision was the presence of a fully guarded beach at Assateague State Park, less than half a mile from National Park Service territory, according to Hawthorne.
When asked why there weren’t enough lifeguards on one of the summer’s busiest holiday weekends, Hawthorne said government hiring rules changed and “we did not get the lifeguards on station as quickly as we had anticipated.”
Hawthorne said more lifeguards are expected to join the staff in the next few weeks and, depending on their training levels, could help restore a full lifeguard crew later this month.
“We still expect to be fully staffed by the end of July,” Hawthorne said. Lifeguard hiring has been a recurring problem at the National Seashore since last year.
In 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order immediately after his Jan. 20 inauguration, mandating an overall federal hiring freeze. That prevented park leadership at Assateague from hiring lifeguards by the time the summer season started.
Without federal hires, lifeguards at nearby Assateague State Park were called on to monitor the beach for emergencies. The Berlin Fire Company took on the responsibility for water rescues in the interim.
In May, Hawthorne confirmed with Worcester County officials that the park had hired enough lifeguards to fill two-thirds of open positions, and a second wave of recruitment was expected to fill remaining vacancies.
Eminent domain possible for downtown lots
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(July 3, 2026) With a last-minute counteroffer in hand, Ocean City officials this week directed their attorney to continue negotiating the purchase of four downtown parcels for the creation of a public parking lot, but with a plan to begin the eminent domain process if an agreement is not reached by July 20.
On Tuesday, just hours before the Ocean City Council was set to discuss eminent domain proceedings for the acquisition of 205, 207, 209 and 211 Philadelphia Avenue, property owner Tony Mariani, through his attorney, presented City Solicitor Heather Stansbury with what she described as a “much higher” counteroffer than what was initially agreed upon during negotiations this spring.
With hopes that the city could reach some sort of agreement, the council on Tuesday voted 5-0, with Councilman Peter Buas absent, to have Stansbury resume negotiations, with a plan to present an ordinance for eminent domain at the council’s July 20 regular meeting if those negotiations go unanswered.
“We’ll try to avoid that and work with them directly,” Councilman John Gehrig said. “But the option still remains.”
During a June meeting, in which officials held a discussion on public park-
ing, it was revealed that the City Council had been working behind the scenes over the winter months to reach an agreement for the purchase of the four parcels, currently occupied by three residential buildings and a gravel lot.
The negotiations, according to Stansbury, stalled this spring, after the City Council agreed to the property owner’s counteroffer and sent a contract with the agreed-on purchase price.
“Certainly, I can keep pushing,” she said at the time. “But it is certainly the right time to publicly discuss how to move forward.”
City officials argue the properties are strategically located for municipal parking and fulfill a public need, as they would be used to eliminate a portion of the 299-space parking deficiency in the downtown area. With that said, the City Council last month directed staff to send a letter to the property owner, reiterating the city’s offer to buy the properties at fair market value and giving him until June 24 to respond.
“We’ve been discussing a potential sale and they simply went silent on us,” City Manager Terry McGean reminded the council this week. “The council’s di-
rection at that last work session was to directly contact the property owner in writing before we took any additional action. That was done. A letter was sent from the mayor to every address that we could find on record for the owner and all the respective LLCs for these properties.”
McGean told officials this week that those letters went unanswered until last Friday, when the property owner called the mayor, who was out of the office. Multiple return phone calls from both the mayor and the city manager were unsuccessful, he added.
But i,n a turn of events, Stansbury confirmed on Tuesday that she had received a text message from the owner’s attorney with a higher price than what was agreed upon this spring. She said the city had offered $101,000 more than the appraised value, but did not say share the figure publicly.
“It is much higher than the number we thought we had arrived at,” she said. “So, I’m happy to discuss those numbers. We can also deliberate further in closed session, but we’ll need some direction from the council on how you want to proceed.”
“Maybe there’s a misunderstanding internally with these offers that don’t seem to match,” Gehrig said. “Maybe we can get that worked out.”
When asked about the eminent domain process, Stansbury said there were legal steps the city must take, but that the owner would receive fair market value for the properties.
“Your director of public works has identified a public need, and I think you all confirmed there was a public need,” she said. “So, with that public need, you are able to pursue your remedies under state law. Or, of course, you are able to pursue your remedies of negotiation directly with the buyer, or a combination of both.”
With that said, the City Council on Tuesday directed Stansbury to continue negotiating with the property owner, but to begin preparing the next legal steps in the eminent domain process, should the owner not respond by July 20.
BETHANY HOOPER/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Municipal officials in Ocean City are considering invoking eminent domain to acquire these properties on Philadelphia Avenue for city parking.
OC staff members must now disclose office relationships
Employees who are related or partners are required to submit HR documentation
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(July 3, 2026) An amended policy will require Ocean City’s employees to disclose certain relationships in writing, a move officials say will address any conflict of interest or appearance of favoritism.
The policy change, approved in a 6-0 vote during Tuesday’s City Council meeting, states that employees who are related or who are intimate partners must disclose the nature of their relationship by submitting a form to the city’s human resources department.
“Our current employee handbook does already contain language for reporting relationships,” Human Resources Director Katie Callan told the council this week. “The purpose of this policy is to further clarify expectations in order to prevent conflicts of interest, to eliminate the possibility of appearances of favoritism, and just in general to create a work environment that is fair and equitable and professional, of course.”
side… there’s recourse if something wrong happens,” he said. “But if it’s just two people having fun, I don’t want them running to Terry [McGean, city manager] and saying, ‘Hey, we did this the other night.’”
McGean, however, said the language was added in the event of promotions.
“The reason we settled on the same department is there is a much greater possibility that someone can get promoted within that department,” he said. “And while they may not be in a managerial relationship at the time, it’s much more likely in the same department there could be a managerial relationship. We’d like to know that before that occurs and not after the fact.”
Callan agreed.
“Of our 110 jobs posted last year, about 56 were filled internally.”
Human Resources Director Katie Callan
“Of our 110 jobs posted last year, about 56 were filled internally,” she said. “There’s a lot of moving parts. There’s a lot of ‘acting capacity,’ where people are out on leave or medical leave or vacancies. So, for awareness in HR, so that we know when the decisions are being made, there’s a potential for conflict.”
Callan said the policy will go beyond what currently exists and would require written disclosure in two situations – one involving two employees working in the same department, and another involving any employee occupying a supervisory position, regardless of department.
She said those employees will also be asked to complete an attestation form acknowledging that any intimate relationship is voluntary and consensual.
“The HR department – should this policy being approved – would communicate the policy, we’d distribute it, collect the disclosure and attestation forms, and they will be made part of an employee's confidential personnel file,” she added.
While saying he understood the necessity of supervisors reporting their relationships, Councilman John Gehrig asked if it went too far for individuals serving in the same department.
“I get the manager and supervisor
When asked if reporting a relationship could impact someone’s promotion, Callan said it could, if it put them in a direct reporting relationship with the other.
“We can’t have someone in a relationship with a direct reporter,” McGean added. “So, knowing that in advance doesn't necessarily mean the person doesn’t get promoted, but it could very well be that if we do promote you, we can’t promote you into this position or this shift, or you are going to have to make some decisions.”
For her part, Callan said she supported the policy change.
“You might be surprised at how many employees in the town are related,” she added. “We have over 75 currently. That’s just what we’re aware of. It just helps us with staffing and with planning.”
With no further discussion, the council voted to approve the reporting policy.
“It’s as much for the protection of the employees as it is for the protection for the town,” Councilman Jake Mitrecic said.
New state laws to have local effect
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
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(July 3, 2026) New laws taking effect July 1 in Maryland will change alcohol regulations in Worcester County, as well as update statewide rules for schools, cannabis enforcement, health coverage, and electric vehicle charging.
One new law affecting Worcester County has expanded the Board of License Commissioners from three members to five. It also staggers terms for board members and increases annual pay from $2,100 to $4,200.
The powerful board, whose members are appointed by the governor, decides who gets to sell alcohol, enforces the rules for those sales and can penalize those who failed to observe them.
The legislative changes came from a collaboration between Lower Shore lawmakers Sen. Mary Beth Carozza (R-38) and Del. Wayne Hartman (R38C), who each sponsored a version of the bill.
Another alcohol-related bill from Carozza that took effect July 1 (SB 846) has legalized to-go drinks for municipal events.
That tourism-related measure is intended to drive foot traffic during street fairs and festivals. It allows Berlin, Pocomoke City, and Snow Hill to set a footprint where attendees can
For Hartman, a bill he sponsored that took effect July 1 (HB 500, SB 309) creates a sales tax exemption for sales of gold and silver coins and bullion valued over $1,000. The old law only exempted sales tax when purchases were made at Baltimore’s convention center.
Hundreds of other laws with a greater statewide impact as of Wednesday also passed during this year’s legislative session, according to the state’s Department of Legislative Services.
For public schools, local districts must adopt new cybersecurity requirements. The legislation (HB 957, SB 601) requires each district to name a cybersecurity contact, comply with state minimum cybersecurity standards, and conduct a cybersecurity maturity assessment every two years.
Another new law (HB 856, SB 648) requires local school systems to start screening new hires through a nationwide educator clearinghouse. This affects licensed teachers who are offered a job as of Aug. 1.
School book fairs are getting a tax reprieve, too, with a new law (HB 358, SB 403) that creates a sales tax exemption for certain elementary and secondary schools.
In transportation, there are new
rules for charging electric vehicles, or EVs. The new law (HB 969, SB 649) requires EV charging to be measured and sold in kilowatt-hours, with clear and itemized receipts for all additional fees. Operators of electric car chargers must display contract information for transparency’s sake.
In health care, another new law (HB 280, SB 205) says health insurance companies no longer may consider mental health and substance abuse treatment as secondary to physical health care coverage. State regulators will have clearer authority to enforce the rules that require insurers to equitably treat mental health and addiction treatment.
For renters and storage facility operators, another new law (HB 618, SB 438) requires giving notice and a clear timeline when self-storage facility operators do not renew storage agreements or dispose of a renter’s personal property.
State cannabis regulations are changing as well. Under another new law that took effect Wednesday (HB 622), dispensaries may continue delivering medical cannabis to homes for another year. The law also sets new standards for employee training and increases the maximum number of employees at a micro-dispensary from 10 to 20.
Beach division records additional violations
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(July 3, 2026) A new beach enforcement division has recorded hundreds of additional violations in the weeks since the program was first reviewed by the city’s elected officials.
In a monthly update, Emergency Services Director Joe Theobald told members of the Ocean City Council on Tuesday that response to a new beach enforcement division remains largely positive. As of June 21, enforcement officers have tagged 290 unoccupied canopies and have made 180 personal contacts with the owners.
“It’s more about being assertive and making them understand, and educating them,” he said.
Last year, the Ocean City Council passed legislation to ban all beach tents, with the exception of tents used for babies. The ordinance, amended in the spring, also prohibits beachgoers from erecting beach canopies before 10 a.m. and then leaving those canopies unattended; prohibits beach canopies larger than 15-by-15 feet; requires a 3-foot separation around a canopy’s perimeter; and requires the anchoring for such canopies to be contained within the canopy’s footprint.
See STAFF Page 18
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
The above chart shows the number of infractions and interactions from June 8-21 recorded by members of a new beach enforcement division, which will focus on education this summer season.
Staff focusing on compliance
Continued from Page 16
The responsibility of enforcing the new rules was initially left to the lifeguards, who were tasked last summer with talking to violators and hanging tags on unattended canopies.
However, when staff reported that the job was taking lifeguards away from their primary duties, the council opted to create a new division, which would spend its first summer season educating the public on the city’s beach regulations, including the newly enacted tent and canopy laws.
In his report to the council Tuesday, Theobald said the enforcement officers have maintained a “strong and visible presence” along the beachfront, addressing ordinance violations and promoting public compliance.
Since the first update provided to the council in June, staff have talked
to 569 beach patrons about the new canopy ordinance. They also recorded 130 violations for dogs on the beach and 33 violations involving other beach regulations – alcohol use, smoking, digging holes and more. Dogs are not allowed on the Ocean City beach or Boardwalk from May 1 through Sept. 30.
“We’re educating the public on these other issues too …,” he said. “As of today, we have not issued a citation yet.”
Officials say the goal this year continues to be “voluntary compliance.”
Theobald said in the last five weeks, enforcement officers have been able to talk to roughly 70% of those found in violation of the beach ordinances.
“I haven’t received any complaints about this,” Mayor Rick Meehan added. “I have received compliments.”
Primary winners share goals heading into next fall term
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(July 3, 2026) Worcester County commissioner primary winners say the next board needs to do a better job of managing its fraught relationship with public school officials when the new term begins later this year.
Communication with the Worcester County Board of Education, as well as public safety and long-term planning, will be top priorities heading into the next four years for reelected Commissioners Caryn Abbott and Eric Fiori and Republican primary victors Steve Green and Lou Taylor. Each won a Republican primary June 23.
Roxie Dennis is also on track to join the commissioners this December, having defeated incumbent District 2 Commissioner Diana Purnell in the Democratic primary. Dennis did not provide responses to inquiries from OC Today-Dispatch for this report.
pilfered more than $118,000 for personal purchases, in the process stealing grant money earmarked for students from low-income families. She was formally charged in April. The case is expected to proceed toward a bench trial after a Worcester County judge rejected the proposed plea agreement last month. No trial date has been set.
Abbott, who defeated Laura Morrison and Shaun Shockley to win a second term representing District 1, has consistently voted with a majority bloc that questioned school board spending and rejected the board’s full funding request.
She plans to continue to challenge the Board of Education in that regard.
Since 2022, commissioners have butted heads with public school officials over issues like budgeting, spending, and accountability. Tensions grew following the embezzlement scandal surrounding Denise Shorts, a former assistant school superintendent who’s facing charges of financial misconduct.
State prosecutors say Shorts quietly
“The question is: is this a one-off, or is this [about] deeper problems?” Abbott said in an interview this week. “Where else was there not oversight? I’m going to be protecting the taxpayers’ dollars and not change anything that I’m doing. I will be looking at how every dollar is spent.”
Abbott hopes to review all county salaries, with an eye to increasing wages for the lowest-paid employees. She also wants to pursue a proposed property tax credit for public safety
See PINES’ Page 20
Pines’ District 5 race to be decided Monday
employees and help shape a five-year budget outlook.
Fiori, who defeated District 3 challenger Tim vanVonno, said he is still making the mental transition away from the rigors of a demanding campaign. The constant attention to social media creates “a heightened awareness all the time,” he said.
Long term, Fiori said the county needs a strategic five-year plan. In the short term, he hopes to see a county surplus of nearly $30 million used to address what he called underfunded items in the FY 2027 budget – among them, funding for schools.
The commissioners voted to budget about $2.8 million less for the Board of Education than school district leaders had requested.
“Obviously, we have a monster surplus,” he said. “We need to not spend a ton of money, but we need to right some wrongs on the budget. There are some things we need to in-
vest in.”
Taylor, the county’s former superintendent of schools, will take over the District 6 seat being vacated with the retirement of four-term incumbent Jim Bunting. Taylor said he felt “honored” to garner 70% of the vote against challenger Sherrie Clifford, and to be greeted warmly by familiar faces on the doorsteps of former students.
After visiting nearly 1,500 households while campaigning, Taylor said voters most often shared their unsolicited commentary about budgeting for schools.
“I tried to keep everything neutral, but people are very upset about the funding for the education system,” he said. “I heard a lot of that.”
Other issues Taylor expects to tackle during his term include water and sewer service, how to plan for the possibility of data centers, and a sports complex – which he stressed should be owned and operated by the Town of Ocean City or private enter-
prise, not the county.
Green, who is an editor at this publication, said he wants to mend the fractured and adversarial relationship between commissioners and the Board of Education.
He hopes the county can return to regular quarterly lunch meetings with school officials to improve communication and keep commissioners aware of future budget requests.
“There has been a breakdown in communication,” Green said, “and the end result has been a mistrust among the current commission majority that has led to poor decisions that hurt our children, teachers, support personnel, and bus drivers.”
A sitting Berlin councilman, Green will be just the third person to represent District 4 on the board of commissioners since 1998, following current Commissioners President Ted Elder and former commissioner Virgil Shockley – both candidates he defeated in the primary.
After knocking on 1,000 doors on the campaign trail, “the message of change and the need for a new voice was received well,” Green said.
Not all primary results are in the books. The only undecided race is for the Ocean Pines seat in District 5, where Republican challenger Joe Schanno is holding a 33-vote lead over three-term incumbent Chip Bertino as of Wednesday afternoon when the provisionals were counted.
According to the State Board of Elections website, Schanno now has 469 votes and Bertino has 436 votes – a margin of less than 3%. Schanno won more votes in early voting and on primary day, but Bertino in the last week has seen more mail-in and provisional ballots counted.
That race is slated to be finalized Monday following a final countywide canvass, where additional outstanding District 5 votes will be counted, according to Elections Director Jocelyn Abbott.
Construction begins on new luxury hotel in downtown OC
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(July 3, 2026) Two long-awaited redevelopment projects are underway in Ocean City.
At the south end of town, construction on a luxury hotel planned for 700 S. Philadelphia Avenue, next to Sunset Park, is beginning. The site will be home to the KYMA, an 83-unit
hotel featuring amenities, event space and a bayside Boardwalk. In 2023, the Ocean City Planning Commission narrowly approved the site plan for a luxury hotel to be built on the inlet property. However, in 2024, as the project approached the permit phase, the developer, through attorney Hugh Cropper, came before
KYMA hotel nears construction after extension request
Continued from Page 22
the mayor and City Council with a request to use neighboring Sunset Park as a dedicated fire lane.
The request, while challenged by neighboring property owners, was ultimately approved in a 6-1 vote. In exchange for allowing the developer to use the park as a fire lane in the event of emergencies, the developer agreed to enhance the park’s landscaping and lighting, as well as grant the city an easement to a bayside boardwalk on his property.
In the years that have followed, the developer has sought and received multiple site plan extensions. Just last November, for example, the planning commission granted an 18month extension, which Cropper said would allow his client more time to execute changes to a revised site plan.
“I do think there is good cause for the extension, given the history and that this project is in a much better place than where it started,” he said at the time. “Now it has a bayside boardwalk, it does not have a restaurant on the upper floor, some of the bigger units that had three bedrooms have been eliminated, and it’s more
See 94TH Page 24
Speeding, firearm seized
A pickup truck’s modified exhaust and high rate of speed led police to a loaded gun and other offenses.
On June 28, an Ocean City police vehicle was stationary near the Route 90 intersection with Coastal Highway when a 2005 Ford F-250 pickup slammed on the accelerator to get through a yellow light at 62nd Street. The rapid acceleration led police to believe the vehicle’s exhaust system had been modified and included a “large-after-market tail pipe,” according to the statement of charges.
Police noted the motorist, Tyler Lanza, 25, of Elizabethtown, Pa., reached approximately 50 mph in a 35-mph zone cruising through the traffic light. The vehicle released a huge plume of exhaust fumes as it went through the intersection.
When police initiated a traffic stop, Lanza was wearing two wristbands from local bars. A brief conversation and failed sobriety tests resulted in Lanza being placed under arrest for driving while impaired.
A search of the vehicle prior to it being towed located a Canik55 TP9SF Elite Combat 9 mm handgun in the center console. The gun was determined to have a round in the chamber and a magazine containing approximately 15 bullets. It was determined Lanza did not have a firearm permit from Pennsylvania.
Lanza is facing charges for possession of a handgun in a vehicle and a loaded handgun in vehicle in addition to more than a dozen traffic offenses including driving while under the influence of alcohol.
Disorderly conduct charge
A Maryland man was arrested after being a menace downtown last Friday.
On June 24, around 10:45 p.m., Ocean City police on bike patrol found a man lying on the sidewalk on 7th Street and Philadelphia Avenue. A bar security guard told police the man, John Valdivieso, 57, of Dundalk, had been in an altercation with a staff member after assaulting an employee. Valdivieso had visual abrasions on his arms.
Police asked Valdivieso to remain on the ground, but he resisted, standing up and trying to punch a bar employee in the face in the process. Valdivieso ignored police requests to put his arms behind his back before trying to flee the scene multiple times.
The responding officer used force to gain compliance by picking Valdivieso up off the ground and pinning him down.
Police investigation found earlier in the evening police encountered Valdivieso, who had reportedly been acting disorderly on Surf Avenue before fleeing the scene.
Valdivieso was charged with two counts of second-degree assault, two counts of obstructing and hindering and two counts of disorderly conduct.
TOGETHER WE THRIVE
On May 27, retired U.S. Marine Mark DeLancey, founder and executive director of Together We Thrive, an organization dedicated to supporting the LGBTQ+ community on the Eastern Shore, spoke to the Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City Kiwanis Club. DeLancey discussed the vital role of inclusive community networks and how Together We Thrive is building a more vibrant future for the Delmarva Peninsula. Pictured are DeLancey, left, with Kiwanis President-Elect Seth Thatcher.
94th St. project moving along
Continued from Page 23
of a luxury hotel now.”
With construction now moving ahead, Planning and Community Development Director George Bendler came before the Ocean City Police Commission last month with a request to close a sidewalk and street parking from the south side of South Division Street to the north side of South 1st Street.
As presented, jersey barriers would separate the parking lane from the slow lane of travel, and pedestrian and bike traffic would be redirected to Baltimore Avenue to access the fishing pier.
The commission ultimately voted 3-0 to approve the closure. However, during a meeting Tuesday, the Ocean City Council directed construction crews to come up with an alternate plan.
Uptown, on 94th Street, developer Brookfield Homes is finishing roads, utilities and the pad for townhouses that NV Homes will eventually build on, Bendler said in an email last week. He said that staff are reviewing the company’s building plan in advance of permitting.
“The Commercial section parcel A where the new ACME is being constructed is well under way,” he added.
In 2024, the city’s planning commission granted a request from developer OCTC Holdings LLC to divide the 94th Street shopping center into four separate parcels for future redevelopment.
Parcel A, located to the northeast, will feature a new ACME grocery store and retail space, while parcels C and D, located to the west, will feature townhomes, a community center and a community pool. Parcel B, which currently hosts a bank and Blue Fish Restaurant and Bar, will not be redeveloped.
Since that time, the developer has acquired site plan approval for the three parcels, as well as variances from the Ocean City Board of Zoning Appeals, including a special parking exception to reduce the garage door openings at the townhouse project.
Most recently, the developer, also represented by Cropper, sought and received a one-year variance extension from the appeals board.
Who’s Where When
BLU CRABHOUSE / DISTRICT 24
410-289-3322
24th Street Bayside
Fri., July 3: Lime Green Band
Sat., July 4: Jason Lee
BURLEY OAK BREWING COMPANY
443-513-4647
10016 Old Ocean City Blvd., Berlin
Fri., July 3: Slomefire
Sun., July 5: Tyler & Britnay
BUXY’S SALTY DOG & DRY DOCK 28
410-289-BUXY
28th Street Coastal Hwy.
Fri., July 3: Jack & T
Sundays: 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
CARIBBEAN POOL BAR
410-289-6181
In The Plim Plaza Hotel
109 N. Atlantic Ave.
Fri., July 3: True Country & Endless Ember
Sat., July 4: Star Spangled Hustlers & Voodoo Tribe
Sun., July 5: Mercury Agenda & Keith Thompson Duo
Mon., July 6: DJ Bobby O & Matt Tichon
Tues., July 7: Reform School & Wayne Blake
Wed., July 8: Fil Rhythm & Johnny Cardo
Thurs., July 9: Liz & Steve & Chicken Charlie
COCONUTS BEACH BAR
410-289-6846
Oceanfront At Castle
In The Sand Hotel
37th & 38th Streets
Fri., July 3: Opposite Directions & Royal Flush Band
Sat., July 4: Fred & Wilma & Catch The Drift
Sun., July 5: Loud Moon & Aaron Howell Trio
Mon., July 6: Jess Arms & Fil Rhythm
Tues., July 7: The Jamn Brothers & Matt & Joe Mama
Wed., July 8: Bill Dickson & Monkee Paw
Thurs., July 9: Amber Hopkins & Lime Green Band
COINS PUB
410-289-3100
28th Street Plaza
On Coastal Hwy.
Fri, July 3: Monkee Paw
Sat., July 4: Jim Long & DJ Giddyup Sundays: DJ Wax
Tues., July 7: Jamin’ Brothers
CRABCAKE FACTORY
BAYSIDE
302-988-5000
37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54, Selbyville, DE
Sun., July 5: Uncle Ward
Wed., July 8: True Country
Tues., July 7: C-Miller
FAGER’S ISLAND
410-524-5500
60th St., In The Bay
Fri., July 3: DJ RobCee, The Klassix & Here’s To The Night
Sat., July 4: Dead Eye Stare, DJ Cruz
& Here’s To The Night
Sun., July 5: Crushing Day & DJ Groove
Best Beats On The Beach
DOC MARTEN & THE FLANNELS
Purple Moose: Friday & Saturday, July 3 & 4
KLASSIX Fager’s Island: Friday, July 3
JACK & T
Buxy’s Salty Dog: Friday, July 3
OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS
Coconuts Beach Bar: Friday, July 3
Harborside: Sunday, July 5
SLOMFIRE
Burley Oak: Friday, July 3
BOOGIEMEN
The Wedge: Tuesday, July 7
Fager’s Island: Wednesday, July 8
MONKEE PAW
Coins Pub: Friday, July 3
Jolly Jellyfish Beach Club: Sunday, July 5
Coconuts Beach Bar: Wednesday, July 8
Caribbean Pool Bar: Sunday, July 5
WHEELAND BROTHERS
Seacrets: Wednesday, July 8 (Ticket Event)
FULL CIRCLE
Fish Tales: Friday, July 3 (Duo)
Seacrets: Wednesday, July 8 (Duo)
Fager’s Island: Thursday, July 9
Caribbean Pool Bar: Saturday, July 4
Who’s Where When
Mon., July 6: Deck Party - DJ Wax,
Crushing Day, Pineapple Band & DJ Stinson
Tues., July 7:
Saltwater Sweat Line Dancing
Wed., July 8: DJ Hector & Boogiemen
Thursdays: DJ Groove & Full Circle
FISH TALES
410-289-0990
22nd Street & The Bay
Fri., July 3: Full Circle (Duo) & DJ Groove
Sat., July 4: DJ Hook
Sun., July 5: Colossal Fossil Sauce
Wednesdays: DJ Wax
HARBORSIDE 410-213-1846
South Harbor Rd., West End O.C.
Fridays: DJ Billy T
Sat., July 5: Jay & Friends & DJ Bigler
Sundays: Opposite Directions & Charlie Travers
Wednesdays: DJ Billy T
Thursdays: Dust N Bones
JOLLY JELLYFISH BEACH CLUB 443-664-6147
98th Street Coastal Hwy., Plaza Condominium
Fri., July 3: DJ Giddyup
Sat., July 4: DJ Wax
Sun., July 5: Monkee Paw
Mon., July 6: First Class
Tues., July 7: All The Vibes
Wed., July 8: Joe Mama & Friends
Thurs., July 9: Lennon LaRicci & The Leftovers
PICKLES PUB
410-289-4891
8th Street & Philadelphia Ave.
Fridays: Beats By DeoGee
Sat., July 4: Beats By Rampage Sun., July 5: MR. VCR & Madame Dutchess
Mon., July 6: Karaoke w/ Wood
Tuesdays: Beats By Wax
Wednesdays: Beats By C-Miller Thursdays: Beats By Connair
PURPLE MOOSE SALOON
410-289-6953
Between Caroline & Talbot Streets On The Boards Fri., July 3: Doc Marten & The Flannels & DJ Mary Jane
Sat., July 4: Doc Marten Duo (2pm), Doc Marten & The Flannels & DJ Papi
Sun., July 5: Purple Sundays - 3 Guest DJs
Mon-Thurs: DJ Papi
SEACRETS
410-524-4900
49th Street & Coastal Hwy.
Fri., July 3: DJ Connair, DJ E-State, Jah Works, Gab Cinque & Turning The Tide
Sat., July 4: DJ Davie, DJ Bobby O, DJ E-State, Tommi Boi, The Poprocks, Jah Works, Kono Nation & Lost In Paris
Sun, July 5: Trip Rail Turn, DJ E-State & Lost In Paris
Mon., July 6: Blake Haley & DJ E-State
Tues., July 7: Turning The Tide, DJ E-State & Carley Twigg
Wed., July 8: DJ E-State, Full Circle Duo, Sean Patrick, Alibis & Wheeland Brothers (Ticket Event) Thurs, July 9: Shredded Cheddar & Go Go Gadjet
THE WEDGE 410-289-5121
806 S. Atlantic Ave.
Tues., July 6: Boogiemen
MERCURY AGENDA
MR. VCR Pickles Pub: Sunday, July 5
Beat the Heat: 6 Unstoppable Flowers for a Water-Wise Summer
by Stephanie Graves, Owner, String and Petals Nursery
It’s the time of year when gardeners battle intense heat and drought just to keep their beds vibrant. If you’re like me, you’ve probably spent countless hot summer days chasing after wilting foliage with hoses and sprinklers, hoping to keep everything alive. Luckily, you don’t have to rely on constant watering. There are plenty of stunning, droughttolerant flowers that thrive with minimal fuss.
Here are six of my favorite summerblooming choices to make your garden both beautiful and resilient:
1. Rudbeckia (Black-Eyed Susan): A true native powerhouse and the official Maryland state flower. There are four native species and countless cultivars to choose from. My personal favorite right now is 'Rising Sun Chestnut Gold', which boasts massive, striking bicolor blooms.
2. Lantana: An absolute champ for a baking, dry summer garden. If you want something that thrives in conditions that would make other plants crisp up, Lantana is an exceptional choice. This tough annual provides vibrant, non-stop color all summer long.
3. Zinnias: My favorite budgetfriendly summer annual. They make excellent cut flowers, attract a parade of pollinators, and are incredibly easy to grow from seed. Best of all, the more you cut them, the more blooms they produce providing you with countless bouquets all summer long.
4. Nepeta (Catmint): This incredibly low-maintenance, long-blooming perennial produces dense spikes of soft lavender-blue flowers. My top pick is 'Cat’s Pajamas' (a fantastic Proven Winners introduction) it stays beautifully compact and blooms early and heavy.
5. Gaura (Whirling Butterflies): A brilliant, airy perennial that brings incredible movement and texture to a summer landscape. It handles tough, hot conditions with ease and looks absolutely spectacular when paired with the hazy texture of Pink Muhly Grass.
6. PURPLE CONEFLOWER (ECHINACEA): A native classic that stands up to severe drought once established. It offers weeks of blooms and acts as a pollinator super-magnet. Leave the spent seed heads standing in the fall— they are a favorite treat for local goldfinches. Tip: Stick to the straight native species or older cultivars for true longevity; many of the flashy new hybrids are short-lived by comparison.
You don't have to choose between a gorgeous yard and a low-maintenance summer. With powerhouses like Rudbeckia, Lantana, and Coneflower on your side, you can build a resilient garden that thrives on minimal fuss and maximum sunshine.
As always, happy planting!
~Stephanie
String and Petals Nursery Located at 9040 Worcester Hwy In the Historic Town of Berlin (410) 861-0084
Bays Program celebrates 30 years
(July 3, 2026) Some of the original architects, former directors, staff, and partners of the Maryland Coastal Bays Program gathered at Macky’s Bayside Bar & Grill last Wednesday to celebrate the program’s 30th anniversary and its three decades of working to protect the five Coastal Bays behind Ocean City and Assateague Island.
The celebration took place on the same date and at the same location
where the program’s journey began. Thirty years ago, the future of these waters was uncertain. Rapid development, increasing tourism, and mounting environmental pressures were beginning to take a toll on this fragile ecosystem.
Natural resources advocates found that excess nutrients fueled harmful algal growth, critical habitats declined, and fish and wildlife populations showed signs of stress. Residents, wa-
termen, scientists, and conservationists recognized that the environment and its contributions to the way of life and the local economy were at risk.
Senator Mary Beth Carozza represented the Maryland Senate’s recognition of the programs’ 30 years of protecting and conserving the Maryland Coastal Bays and watershed with the cooperation and help of farmers, businesses, nonprofits, and the com-
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Pictured, from left, at last week’s 30th anniversary event for the Maryland Coastal Bays Program are current Executive Director Eva DiDonato with former Executive Directors Dave Wilson, Dave Blazer, Steve Taylor and Frank Piorko.
MCBP will host summer events
munity.
As part of the National Estuary Program, the local coastal bays program has been involved in restoration projects, scientific research, environmental education, habitat protection, and community engagement.
As a result, the bays that once faced serious challenges now support flourishing habitats, cleaner waters, and countless opportunities for recreation and enjoyment.
To commemorate this milestone anniversary, the program will host a series of special events throughout the summer, culminating in “An Evening on the Estuary” gala set against the background of Assateague State Park.
Guests will be offered local cuisine, a raw bar showcasing shellfish harvested from the coastal bays, live music, dancing, a silent auction, and the opportunity to celebrate three decades of environmental achievement alongside friends, supporters, and community leaders.
Tickets for An Evening on the Estuary on Sept. 17 and additional anniversary events can be found at www.mdcoastalbays.org.
For gala inquiries, contact Science Coordinator Carly Toulan at ctoulan@mdcoastalbays.org. Individuals or businesses interested in donating items or services for the silent auction are encouraged to contact Education Coordinator Liz Wist at lwist@mdcoastalbays.org.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Senator Mary Beth Carozza presented a proclamation marking the Maryland Coastal Bays Program’s 30th Anniversary. Pictured, from left, are Board Members Bill Huslander and Nancy Zeller, Executive Director Eva DiDonato, Carozza and Board President Steve Taylor.
Art League OC hosting new exhibits for July
(July 3, 2026) The Art League of Ocean City announces their monthly art opening and party will be held on the first Friday, July 3, 2026 from 5-7 p.m. at the Ocean City Center for the Arts, 502 94th St. bayside. The public is invited to attend this free event with refreshments sponsored by PKS and complimentary hors d’oeuvres. Live music by Sympaticocious. Opening in the Thaler Gallery, “Mentor and Muse: Jinchul Kim and His Protégés” features artwork by Jinchul Kim and 20 former Salisbury University students (Sarah Means, Jee Hwang, Kenneth Brown, Jessica Cross, Ally Morgan, Leah Lewman, Petra Bernstein, Leslie Belloso, Kelcie Mack, Jordan Suber, Kee Lee, David Simpson, Jessica Schlegel, Maggie Delaney, Marley Massey, Reeves Dark, Lola Panco, Arielle Tesoriero, Megan Burak, and Dshon McCarty). The exhibit highlights Kim’s impact as a pro-
fessor of Art at Salisbury University since 1996 and shows how his focus on observation, memory, and imagination continues to inspire new generations of artists.
The Annual Beverly Bassford Juried Art Show will be exhibited in the Sisson Galleria in an extended run through Aug. 15. After Bassford’s death in 1999, her family honored her love of art by establishing a prize in her name that grew into the annual show, with continued sponsorship by the family. Dr. Marie (Nikki) Pareja Assistant Professor at Salisbury University will juror the show, selecting winners for the cash prizes sponsored in part by the Bassford family.
The Schwab Spotlight Gallery is shining a spotlight on artwork created by Robby Chin Eastern Shore Gyotaku LLC. Robby Chin’s Gyotaku exhibition showcases the traditional Japanese art of creating life-sized fish prints using paint and
Washi paper. Inspired by Maryland’s Eastern Shore and its rich maritime culture, Chin captures the beauty of local species while preserving the stories connected to the region’s waters.
Jimena DeChant is the artist in Residence in Studio E during July. Her work is a celebration of the natural world and the quiet moments that often go unnoticed. Through vibrant color, expressive brushwork and a focus on organic forms, I seek to capture the fleeting beauty found in everyday life- whether it's the unfolding of a flower, the play of sunlight across a landscape, or the subtle emotions that arise in stillness. Ultimately, my art is an invitation to slow down, to look closer, and to rediscover the beauty woven into the fabric of our daily lives.
The artisan for July is Kacie Neeb, a photographer and visual storyteller
based in Berlin, Maryland. A 2019 graduate of Salisbury University with a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts, she has spent the past six years with the Art League of Ocean City, where she currently serves as Gallery Director. Through her work as both an artist and arts professional, Neeb is dedicated to fostering creative connections and celebrating diverse perspectives through art.
Satellite galleries: The Princess Royale, 9100 Coastal Highway, hosts Jim Halvorsen with Ocean City Yacht Shots, while The Coffee Beanery at 94th Street showcases Carly Whittington, a plaster artist and photographer based in Berlin, Maryland. More information about the exhibits can be found at OCart.org, on the Art League’s app, or by calling 410-524-9433.
Fourth of July hot dog contest
(July 2, 2026) Fish Tales Bar and Grill on 22nd Street will host its July 4 Hot Dog Eating Contest. 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. Doors open at noon. Competition starts at 2 p.m. Seating is available to watch. The first 20 people to pre-register will be the contestants. To register, please visit the Bahia Marina Tackle Shop to sign up. Registration is $10. You must sign a waiver to participate.
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OC’s fireworks expanded for the 250th anniversary
Music, fireworks planned at uptown, downtown sites
(July 3, 2026) Ocean City invites residents and visitors to a historic Independence Day celebration as we join the nation in commemorating the 250th Anniversary of the United States.
This year, the town will mark the occasion with an expanded, high-energy event schedule featuring duallocation festivities and extended fireworks displays at both North Division Street and Northside Park.
“Celebrating our nation’s 250th anniversary is a monumental occasion, and we wanted our Independence Day festivities to reflect the scale and significance of this milestone,” says Brenda Moore, Special Events Director.
The celebration at North Division Street on the beach and boardwalk kicks off at 6:00 p.m. with a performance by “The Broken Hearts,” a nationally touring Tom Petty tribute band founded by a former Mudcrutch bandmate, Charlie Souza. Following the music, the stage will welcome live speed painter Jessica K. Haas at 7:00 p.m. Known as “The Mother of the Speedpainting Movement,” Haas is a record-holding artist recognized for her rapid, engaging performances. The stage performances conclude at 8:00 p.m. with “Real Diamond,” the premier 12-piece Neil Diamond tribute band. Led by Curtis Di Domizio, who has performed with members of Neil Diamond’s own band, this performance promises to guide audiences through five decades of hits.
Simultaneously, the festivities at Northside Park (127th Street and the Bay) will begin at 8:00 p.m. Guests are invited to enjoy an evening of family-friendly entertainment, featuring music sets provided by DJ BK and the team from Radio Ocean City. The evening at both locations will conclude at 9:30 p.m. with a spectacular fireworks display that lights up the sky over the ocean and Assawoman Bay to honor the nation’s semiquincentennial.
“By expanding our fireworks displays and bringing in world-class entertainment like The Broken Hearts and Real Diamond, as well as Jessica K. Haas, we are committed to creating an experience that brings the entire community together under the stars,” Moore added.
Ocean City is dedicated to providing a safe and memorable holiday experience for all families and visitors. We encourage everyone to bring beach chairs and blankets to settle in for a night of patriotic music and spirit.
Ocean Pines to host Fourth of July activities
group, best July 4 costume, and a trophy for overall fastest time. T-shirts will be included for all pre-registered runners, however, sizes are not guaranteed for day-of registrations.
(July 3, 2026) There’s plenty of fun for the entire family this July 4 in Ocean Pines.
The day kicks off with the July 4 Freedom 5K at Veterans Memorial Park. Day-of registration begins at 7 a.m., with the race starting at 8 a.m. All ages are welcome! There will be awards for the top three females and males per age
The 5K registration is $30 in advance and $35 the day of the race. Pre-register online at https://events.elitefeats.com/26ocea npines.
Come back out for the Ocean Pines 4th of July Celebration and Fireworks at Veterans Memorial Park from 4-9 p.m. Enjoy carnival games, music, food, and
fun for all ages! Carnival admission is $20 per wristband for unlimited fun. Fireworks begin at approximately 9:15 p.m. Parking will be available in the green lot next to Taylor Bank and the Ocean Pines Library. Handicap parking will be available on-site at Veterans Memorial Park.
Several road closures will also take effect throughout the day. Cathell Road, from the Ocean Parkway entrance to the Sports Core Pool entrance, will close at approximately 1 p.m. on July 4 (or when the fireworks truck arrives).
Both sides of Ocean Parkway from Offshore Lane to the Manklin Meadows intersection will close one hour prior to fireworks launch (approximately 8:15 p.m.). No seating will be allowed between Offshore and the Manklin Meadows intersection.
Southside Ocean Parkway will reopen once cleared by the fire marshal following the fireworks display. Cathell Road will reopen once approved by the fire marshal, all fireworks are cleared, and the fireworks company has left the property.
Diakonia to host food bank giveaway, health screenings
(July 3, 2026) Diakonia, in partnership with the Maryland Food Bank and Atlantic Club Recovery at the Beach, invites the community to a free Food Share & Community Resources Event on Thursday, July 16, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Atlantic Club, 11827 Ocean Gateway, Ocean City, 21842.
The event is open to individuals, families, and Veterans throughout Maryland's Lower Eastern Shore. Attendees will receive free fresh food while also connecting with local organizations offering valuable services
Worcester County will host hearing on new comp plan
(June 25, 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.
and resources, including:
• Health Screenings and Health Care Information
• Reentry Services and Narcan Training
• Peer Support and Recovery Information
• Legal Services Information
• Rapid Response Team Services and SNAP Enrollment Assistance
"These events are about more than providing food," said Ken Argot, Executive Director of Diakonia. "They're about connecting neighbors with the resources, support, and hope they need while strengthening the partnerships that make our community healthier and more resilient."
Through the continued support of the Maryland Food Bank, Atlantic Club Recovery at the Beach, and numerous community partners, Diakonia can expand access to nutritious food and essential services for those experiencing food insecurity and other challenges across the Lower Eastern Shore.
Community members who know someone who may benefit from this event are encouraged to help spread the word by sharing the information with friends, family, neighbors, and colleagues.
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• Special sections on the lost buildings of Ocean City, the March Storm of ‘62, Frontier Town, Trimpers Rides, Shanty Town, Hurricanes Gloria and Sandy, the White Marlin Open, Surfing, the Ocean City Beach Patrol, Phillips Crab House, the Commander Hotel, the Segregation Era, the Arson fires of the 1970’s, Characters and Personalities, and much more
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Berlin fireworks set for
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(July 3, 2026) Berlin will be marking America’s 250th birthday a day early this week with its annual fireworks show on Friday, July 3.
As the country gears up to celebrate its declaration of independence from Great Britain 250 years ago, the town will again host its own festivities on July 3. The day-before-event has become a town tradition, as nearby Ocean City and Ocean Pines light off their fireworks on the conventional July 4.
Berlin’s Economic and Community Development Director Ivy Wells said Berlin’s July 3 celebration allows the town’s citizens to view the pyrotechnics without having to travel if they prefer not to.
“Holding our fireworks on July 3 has become a Berlin tradition,” Wells said. “Since so many people have the day off on July 4, it makes for a perfect evening to gather with family and friends the night before. Many residents host backyard barbecues and parties on July 3, so our fireworks fit naturally into that celebration. Berlin has always liked to do things a little differently, and this tradition has become part of what makes our celebration unique.”
According to Wells, the town’s Independence Day fireworks display will begin at dusk, at approximately 9:15 p.m. at Heron Park and will last around 20 minutes.
Wells said that she ensures the selected pyrotechnics are those that shoot highest into the sky, so everyone within the municipal limits, no matter where they’re watching, has access to a prime viewing location.
However, she added that the best spot to see the fireworks is SonRise Church at 10026 North Main Street.
Additionally, SonRise will be hosting a celebration in conjunction with the fireworks. Beginning at 6 p.m., the church will welcome spectators with free burgers and hot dogs, snow cones, popcorn, inflatables and games, face painting, and more patriotic festivities.
SonRise’s event is open to all community members. Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket and stick around for the fireworks show at dusk. While Berlin’s fireworks display focuses on residents, Wells added the celebration is another reason for tourists to make their way to town and see what it has to offer.
“[The Independence Day celebration] reinforces our sense of community that makes Berlin special and introduces new visitors to our downtown,” Wells said. “The fireworks create an opportunity for people to spend time together and make memories. We hope everyone leaves with a greater appreciation for our town and looks forward to coming back year after year.”
The show’s sponsors include Maryland Broadband Cooperative and SonRise Church.
UNIT 22 HARBOUR ISLAND OCEAN CITY
Worcester Co. Arts Council holds 50th anniversary gala
(July 2, 2026) The Worcester County Arts Council celebrated its 50th Anniversary on June 9 with a sold-out Golden Anniversary Luncheon at Worcester Technical High School, marking five decades of enriching the community through the arts.
The milestone event brought together founders, representatives of the Maryland State Arts Council, local
elected officials, arts advocates, patrons, community partners, volunteers, members, and supporters whose dedication has helped shape the organization since its founding in 1976.
Among those in attendance were Maryland State Arts Council Executive Director Steven Skerritt-Davis, Maryland Citizens for the Arts Executive Director Nicholas Cohen, Sena-
Pictured during last month’s celebratory event are Worcester County Arts Council founding Board members Bill Fetterolf, Patrick Henry and William Buchanan Jr.
Artists celebrate five decades of local organization
tor Mary Beth Carozza, Delegate Wayne Hartman, and Worcester County Commissioner Chip Bertino.
A highlight of the celebration was an inspiring keynote address by founding board member and acclaimed local artist Patrick Henry, who reflected on the Arts Council's beginnings and the impact of the arts on the community over the past fifty years.
Executive Director Anna Mullis shared a vision for the future focused on building bridges of connection through the arts, emphasizing the Arts Council's role in bringing together artists, organizations, businesses, students, and community members through creativity and collaboration.
Guests also enjoyed the presentation of the Blooming Arts Mobile Project, a collaborative public art initiative created by local residents and students that symbolizes the growth, well being, and community spirit fostered by the Arts Council.
The "50 Years of Art, Community, and Connections" awards, designed and handcrafted with the artistic vision of local glass artist Jeff Auxer, were presented to Bill Fetterolf, the oldest surviving founding member of the Worcester County Arts Council; Patrick Henry for his artistic achievements and enduring commitment to the organization; and Bill Buchanan Jr., in honor of the legacy of his father, William Buchanan Sr., a founding board member.
Additional awards created by Auxer were presented to state and county officials in recognition of their continued support for the arts and cultural development in Worcester County.
The celebration featured a raffle made possible through generous donations from local businesses and community partners. The winner of the Golden Ticket Raffle for Patrick Henry's original painting, "Foggy Morning – Ocean City," was Jason Giusti. Proceeds from the Golden Ticket raffle will support 2027 Patrick Henry Art Scholarship, administered by the Arts Council.
The Worcester County Arts Council extends sincere appreciation to all who helped make the event a success, including Chef Phil Cropper and the Worcester Technical High School Culinary Arts Program for preparing and presenting an artfully crafted luncheon. The Arts Council also thanks the many sponsors, donors, volunteers, artists, community partners, and supporters who have contributed to its success throughout the years.
The Worcester County Arts Council's 50th Anniversary Tribute Video and Executive Director Anna Mullis's "Looking to the Future" remarks are available for viewing at http://www.worcestercountyartscouncil.org
Elks Lodge celebrates USA’s 250th year with flag display
(July 3, 2026) In advance of America’s 250th anniversary on July 4, Ocean City Elks Lodge #2645 celebrated Flag Day in a ceremony displaying every flag carried by our forefathers from the beginning of the nation’s struggle for independence until now.
Beginning with the Pine Tree Flag that was carried by Continental forces in the Battle of Bunker Hill, members of local Scout troops carried the flags into the ceremony.
Lodge Exalted Ruler Vernon Betkey noted that The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks is the first and only fraternal body to require formal obser-
vance of Flag Day. In July of 1908, the Grand Lodge of this Order, at Dallas, Texas, then assembled, provided for the annual nationwide observance of “Flag Day” on the 14th of June in each year, by making it mandatory upon each Local Lodge of the Order.
The Lodge also displayed the Snake Flag used by the Southern Colonies in 1776 and 1777. The first American Flag was adopted on June 14, 1776. It first flew in battle on Aug. 3, 1776.
A proclamation by President Woodrow Wilson in 1916 designated that day as Flag Day, to be observed nationally.
WAY LANE OCEAN CITY
1-of-a-kind home built in 2022 by Mark Iacona & Fivestar Builders offers the ultimate waterfront lifestyle. Accessed by paved private road & driveway, the home has nature & water views in every room. Just minutes to beaches, restaurants
& shopping! 111+ feet of newly bulkheaded waterfront for kayaks, canoes, PWC, skiffs & pontoon boats along quiet & scenic stretch of Herring Creek. All-electric home has new well, own water conditioning system & custom shades throughout. Chef's kitchen has premium finishes, 2 walk-in pantries & space to cook & entertain. Main level master suite oversized tile walk-in shower, his-and-her sinks, private water closet & creek views. 2 BRs, 2 full BAs upstairs plus flexible studio space ideal as 4th BR or home office. Open-concept living room has wood-burning fireplace with heatilator & flows to sunroom. Well-designed outdoor deck has 3 electric awnings for cool & comfort. Schedule your showing today & discover this exceptional coastal gem! NOW $1,255,000
WATERFRONT 2-STORY HOME with 3 PRIVATE BOAT SLIPS
401
6,000 SF lot with 2,000 SF 2-story home has front row seats to the White Marlin Open at Harbour Island! Renovate & customize OR explore potential to build 2 units (with town approval) - live in one & rent the other. 1 of 3 boat slips has with electric lift along the newer vinyl bulkhead with 40’ of frontage with water & electric to the dock. Direct access to open water for boating, fishing or cruising to a waterfront restaurant or bar. Gorgeous sunsets from large private deck. Short walk to beach. No Condo or HOA fees. Sold As Is. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to secure a premier waterfront location! NOW $1,875,000
COASTAL REAL ESTATE. STRATEGY INCLUDED.
(Newark), was awarded a Skill Point Certificate in Community Service.
Team S (consisting of Aidan Parks, Jacobo Enriquez-Moreno, Tyler MacPherson, Caleb Butler), from Worcester Technical High School (Newark), was awarded a Skill Point Certificate in TeamWorks.
Team U (consisting of Jack Phillips, Ella Connors, Kysaiah Williams, Cristina Esch), from Worcester Technical High School (Newark), was awarded a Skill Point Certificate in Entrepreneurship.
Team I (consisting of Kalli Rathel, Harper Hastings, Amelia Harper), from Worcester Technical High School (Newark), was awarded a Skill Point Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety-Single.
To be invited to the SkillsUSA Championships, students first had to win their state-level competition,
demonstrating their technical skills, workplace skills and personal skills. The national competition featured state champions from middle school, high school and college/postsecondary divisions across the country in 115 hands-on career and leadership competitions including robotics, automotive technology, drafting, criminal justice, aviation maintenance, public speaking and more.
“This showcase of career and technical education demonstrates SkillsUSA at its finest,” said SkillsUSA Executive Director Chelle Travis. “Our students, instructors and industry partners work together to ensure that every student excels.”
The SkillsUSA Championships is the largest skill competition in the world and covers 1.79 million square feet, equivalent to 31 football fields or 41 acres. It’s supported by leaders from 850 businesses, corporations,
trade associations and unions who planned and evaluated the competitors against their industry standards. More than 2,000 industry judges and technical committee members also volunteered their time to ensure a successful event.
Student achievements
The following represents a collection of press releases sent to this newspaper.
• Emery Busko of Snow Hill has received a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Alabama.
• Mia Lovitt of Berlin was honored for academic achievement by being named to Delaware Valley University’s Spring 2026 Dean’s List.
• A graduate of Stephen Decatur High School, Allison Swift of Showell has been named to the spring 2026 Dean’s List while studying at Muhlenberg College.
• The University of Mississippi announced students named to the Spring 2026 Honor Roll lists, including Dean’s Honor Roll. Local students included Emily Clark, of Bishopville, in the B.S. in Hospitality Management program, and Baylor Hoen, of Bishopville, in the B.B.A. in Real Estate program.
• Ben Forbes of Berlin was among over 4,500 students from Miami University in Ohio who received degrees during the spring commencement on May 16, 2026.
• During the 2025-26 academic year, University of Maryland Global Campus recognized Dawn Knighton of Berlin for service on the Student Insight Council. Volunteers play a vital role in shaping the UMGC experience by providing feedback that helps create a stronger future for the university community.
• Maggie A. Mathews of Berlin was named to first honors on the Clark University Dean’s List.
EXPERIENCE YOU CAN TRUST
Next session of free art club set for July 10 in OC
(July 3, 2026) After two successful gatherings filled with laughter, learning, and new friendships, the Art League of Ocean City is excited to welcome participants to the third session of Creative Connections, a free monthly art club for adults ages 60 and older. The program has quickly become a favorite among attendees, who have embraced the opportunity to connect with others, explore new ideas, and engage with the arts in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Created in response to community interest, Creative Connections combines engaging presentations with meaningful social interaction. Each session begins with an inspiring talk or demonstration led by artists, instructors, and community members, followed by an informal conversation over light refreshments. Participants have praised the program for its friendly atmosphere, stimulating discussions, and the chance to build new relationships while discovering fresh creative perspectives.
“It's been wonderful to see how enthusiastically people have embraced Creative Connections,” said Rina Thaler, executive director of the Art League of Ocean City. “What started as an idea to bring people together through creativity has quickly grown into a community. Participants tell us they look forward to each gathering, not only for the presentations but also for the friendships and conversations that have developed along the way.”
The third session will take place on July 10 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Art League of Ocean City. Guests will enjoy an interactive presentation by artist and 2024 Robinson Fellowship Award recipient Jenn Carter, who will explore how artists learn to observe the world and translate those observations into drawings. Participants will have the opportunity to practice sketching from a photograph and take home a drawing of their own. No prior art experience is necessary.
Creative Connections is held at the Art League of Ocean City Center for the Arts on 94th Street, bayside. Upcoming sessions are scheduled for September 11, October 9, November 13, and December 11. Participation is free, and light refreshments are provided.
Join the conversation. Rediscover your passion for the arts and meet the people who make Ocean City’s creative scene so special. Registration is encouraged, but not required. Register here: https://canvas.artleagueofoceancity.org/events /32 or call the Arts Center at 410524-9433.
Forty-two Wor-Wic Community College associate degree in nursing (ADN) graduates recently participated in an awards and recognition ceremony. The nurse pinning ceremony, modeled after a tradition started by Florence Nightingale in the 1860s, initiates nurse graduates into the profession. Wor-Wic’s most recent pinning for ADN students took place on the campus in Salisbury. The event this year featured a keynote address by Lauren Blake, instructor of nursing. Special awards were presented by Sarah Wray, director of nursing. Whitney Dashields of Westover was the student speaker.
HORSES AND FERRIS
Although separated by the Inlet, the horses of Assateague Island appear so close to Ocean City’s hustle and bustle in this scene captured from the
Jolly Roger Amusement Park’s Ferris wheel and Trimper’s Amusements’ Big Wheel ride.
PHOTOS
On June 21, community members of all ages gathered at the beach in front of Castle in the Sand for a Hawaiian-style paddle-out celebrating the life of Beach Patrol Lt. Ward Kovacs, who passed away in April. The event was organized by the Ocean City Surf Club, in partnership with the Ocean City Beach Patrol. At right, Kovacs’ sister and brother-in-law are pictured observing the ceremony.
(July 3, 2026) As always in midJune, Ocean City Surf Club hosted its annual Surf Fest weekend. The club has grown, led by Tommy Vach, and founded by Shelly Dawson, Brad Hoffman and Chris Tilghman in 2014, into a significant nonprofit organization.
To give a snapshot, just one of their annual events presents $40,000 in scholarships to local graduating seniors. Other notable accolades include its “Surf into Integrity” program at Stephen Decatur Middle School, community outreach proSee SURF Page 69
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Surf Fest features a paddle out in honor of Ward Kovacs
Continued from Page 66
grams, along with environmental stewardship.
The plans had been in place for months for a great weekend when community pillar and Ocean City icon Tommy Vach, the current president and driving force of the club, fell ill and suddenly passed away on June 17. The ocean community was in total shock.
Under difficult circumstances, the group carried on thanks to the leadership of interim President Brad Hoffman, Vice President Rusty Ruskin, board members Anne Cook, Bill and Kevan Thompson, Chris Tilghman, and a host of committed volunteers.
The weekend started off on Friday with the Legends induction ceremony, community awards, and scholarship awards. Saturday was the “Anything Goes” surf contest. The KCoast Kool Cats prevailed and took home first place.
Sunday was a surf swap meet at Fager’s island; a solid turnout featuring a mini ramp and great food.
The big ending to the weekend was the Memorial Ward Kovacs Hawaiian Style paddle out. Kovacs passed away suddenly earlier this spring. Over 250
people paid their respects.
Over 100 surfers paddled out. OCBP alumnus Sean Williams paddled out with the ceremonial wreath with Josh Wilder, Colby Philips, Timmy Uebel and Brad Hoffman. Words of love, respect, and admiration were shared. OCBP leaders were on hand in support.
Ward’s sister and brother-in-law, Kate and Mark, watched along with hundreds of others as the surfers paddled out. Creating a circle of life, all joined hands in the calm ocean. A celebration of OC's true waterman and the life he led. Kovacs had influenced and mentored many generations of OCBP members in a positive way.
Hoffman said “In the end, it was a very emotional end to a super tough week. The ocean tribe joined together. They are one and it was evident in how they all came to support each other. The Ocean City Surf Club wishes to thank everyone who participated in this event: all the sponsors, host hotel Castle in the Sand, Don Julio, the Bank of Ocean City, Barn 34, Longboard Café, B-Rad Productions, volunteers, and supporters. Ward and Tommy will be missed in a very deep way.”
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Pines Beach Club slated for upstairs improvement work
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(July 2, 2026) The Ocean Pines Beach Club in Ocean City will undergo extensive remodeling this fall, with a focus on creating a welcoming secondfloor space by installing a top-story deck, an ADA-compliant elevator, and durable, storm-proof windows.
At the Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors meeting Monday, General Manager John Viola reported on an upcoming project at the
OPA-owned Beach Club on 49th Street in Ocean City.
According to Viola, beginning in September, Ocean Pines will begin modernizing the building and optimize its guest experience. The plan is to transform the facility's top story into an inviting summer hangout spot by revitalizing the largely unusable upstairs space.
Planned renovations include the installation of a second-floor deck and glass railing, an elevator, a remodeled
New deck, windows, elevator coming to Pines Beach Club
second-floor interior kitchen and bathrooms, accordion doors leading to the new outdoor platform, and hurricane-proof windows.
Additionally, the Beach Club is slated for both interior and exterior demolition work. Crews will reinforce the interior floors, replace and install new pilings, and redo the structure’s first floor deck.
The association is preparing to request proposals from contractors to undertake the remodeling project. The work will be divided into phases, with construction elements grouped by similarity.
“What's next at the Beach Club? Well…we are going to replace much of it,” Viola said. “…We are working on that now; we are going to send out bids. We’re going to chunk it out.”
The general manager said that the club’s current decks will be torn down and replaced with a two-tiered porch. The lower platform will be built at the same height as the outdated structure, while the top-story deck will be accessible from the building’s second floor.
The facility’s plumbing will also likely be inspected and improved as needed.
The work’s price tag will be divided between OPA and the Beach
Club’s restaurant operator, Touch of Italy. TOI will invest in the upstairs kitchen work, while Ocean Pines will be responsible for the new ADA-compliant elevator.
OPA Board Vice President Rick Farr maintained that installing an elevator is required in conjunction with the upstairs enhancement work, per the Americans with Disabilities Act.
“This is an ADA requirement that we have to have,” Farr said. “That investment is because ADA mandates it, so we have access for those who need that… that is a requirement for us to have.”
The goal of the project is to maintain the Beach Club’s first-floor functionality while creating an upstairs dining site, providing patrons with additional space to socialize and enjoy the summer season.
“I think that upstairs will be pretty amazing,” OPA Board President John Latham said. “I can’t remember the last time it was used other than a storage shed, and if you go upstairs there, it's an unbelievable view so it will be very, very nice.”
Board Treasurer Monica Rakowski asked for clarity on the proposed timeline. Viola said that the hope is for the renovations to begin as soon as summer ends.
www.thesciencenerds.com
Realtors complete course
The Coastal Association of REALTORS® recently recognized several members who recently completed the Seniors Real Estate Specialist® course, further strengthening their ability to serve clients navigating real estate decisions later in life.
Members recognized for completing the course include Cameron Drew, Stacy Bonkowski, Terri Bradford, Bethany Drew, Vicki Ewalt, Leone Fisher, and Nicole Schreibstein Abbott.
The Seniors Real Estate Specialist® course provides REALTORS® with specialized knowledge and resources to better assist clients ages 50 and older as they consider buying, selling, relocating, downsizing, or making other important housing decisions. This professional development opportunity supports CAR’s commitment to helping members serve the public with accuracy, care, and trusted expertise.
“CAR is proud to recognize these members for investing in education that directly benefits the clients and communities they serve,” said CAR President Terrence McGowan. “As housing needs change throughout different stages of life, REALTORS® with specialized training are better prepared to guide consumers through meaningful and often emotional decisions.”
The completion of the SRES® course reflects each member’s commitment to continued professional growth and to providing informed, compassionate service to clients across the Lower Shore.
Dividend increase
Bank of Ocean City has announced a record dividend increase for 2026, continuing a longstanding tradition of delivering value to its stockholders while maintaining the financial strength that has supported the communities it serves.
Dividend payments are being mailed to stockholders this week. The mid-year dividend is $0.46 per share, representing a 100% increase over the bank's mid-year 2025 dividend.
Combined with the earlier dividend payment this year, Bank of Ocean City's total regular dividend for 2026 is $0.90 per share, a 43% increase over the total dividend paid in 2025.
This marks the 38th consecutive year that Bank of Ocean City has increased its regular dividend, reflecting the bank's consistent financial performance, strategic leadership, and long-term commitment to creating value for its stockholders.
"This year's dividend increase reflects the continued strength of our bank and the confidence we have in our future," said Reid Tingle, President and CEO of Bank of Ocean City. "We are proud to continue rewarding
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.
■ 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 20 years. Voted Best Top 5 Bakeries in Delaware. 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.
“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.
UPTOWN
Regional Membership Manager.
the stockholders who have invested in Bank of Ocean City while remaining focused on serving our customers, supporting our communities, and maintaining the strong financial foundation that will continue to guide our success for years to come."
As Bank of Ocean City continues to grow alongside the communities it serves, the bank said it remains committed to delivering long-term value for its stockholders while providing the relationship-based banking and local leadership that have been the foundation of its success for more than 100 years.
Certification earned
Deeley Insurance Group, an independent insurance agency serving Delmarva and the Mid-Atlantic region, announced Client Advisor Brooke Nugent has successfully earned the RiskPRO Contractors Risk Professional (CRP) certification.
The CRP certification is awarded to insurance professionals who have completed a course of focused training, including contract and policy analysis, as well as exploring property and liability exposures using realworld case studies.
“Earning this certification allows me to bring a deeper, more specialized understanding of construction risks to my clients,” said Nugent. “It helps me be more proactive in identifying exposures up front and more strategic in structuring coverage that aligns with how contractors actually operate day-to-day.”
“Brooke is always looking for ways to grow and bring more value to her clients,” said Laura Bren, president of Deeley Insurance Group.
“Insurance is constantly evolving –especially in Construction, whether it’s new coverage forms, changing carrier appetite, or shifting contractual requirements – continuing education is critical to staying ahead of that.”
Before joining Deeley in July 2021, Nugent served with Associated Builders and Contractors - Chesapeake Shores as their Lower Shore
“At ABC, I gained a great perspective on the challenges contractors face,” Nugent noted. “This certification goes a step further, connecting those insights to advanced risk management strategies and solutions to support my clients.”
In addition to Construction, Nugent’s specialties include customizing insurance policies for the Transportation, Hospitality and Community Association sectors. Nugent graduated from Salisbury University in 2017, where she studied Communications and Marketing.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
BUNK MANN DONATION
Harry Burkett, branch manager of the Worcester County Library in Ocean Pines, is pictured with a signed copy of “Ocean City Chronicles.” Local historian and author Hunter “Bunk” Mann donated his book following a recent Delmarva Authors panel recently held at the library.
POWER SQUADRON GOLF TOURNEY CHECK
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
The Ocean City Power Squadron sponsored a charity golf tournament at the Ocen Pines Golf Club on June 24 to support the Pam and Macky Stansell House in Ocean Pines, a part of Coastal Hospice. The tournament attracted more than 100 golfers and raised approximately $20,000 for the Stansell House. The weather was perfect and six teams claimed prizes for best and worst. The Stansells are pictured accepting the tourney proceeds from club officials.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
DEMS CLUB JUNETEENTH
Indivisible Worcester MD and the Democratic Women's Club of Worcester County celebrating Juneteenth in West Ocean City on Friday, June 19.
LAOH SCHOLARSHIPS
The Worcester Co. Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians honored scholarship recipients at their annual luncheon. Pictured are Ann Cottingham, President; Kirby Bounds, Decatur graduate and scholarship recipient; and Maureen Morly, Scholarship Committee Chair.
WOR-WIC RETIREMENT
After 30 years of dedicated service as a member of the board of trustees of Wor-Wic Community College, Morgan Hazel, center, of Salisbury, recently retired. Hazel was appointed to the board in 1996 by then-Gov. Parris N. Glendening. He served as vice chair from 1997-1999 and 2021-2023 and chair from 1999-2001, 2011-2013 and 2023-2026. Hazel, center, retiring chair of the
a
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC
The Republican Women of Worcester County (RWWC) celebrated America’s 250th anniversary at the Ocean Pines Yacht Club on June 24. The evening entertainment was a Patriotic Sing-Along provided by the Delmarva Chorus. Over 100 guests joined in the festivities.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
WorWic Community College board of trustees, was presented with
proclamation from the board honoring his service. At left, Dr. Ray Hoy, president emeritus of the college, and Deborah Casey, Ph.D., current president, attended the presentation.
vanishing vanishing OCEAN CITY
With Bunk Mann
During the famous March Storm of ’62 so much sand was washed away that the entrances to many hotels along the northern section of the Boardwalk were above what remained of the beach. Much of the old Boardwalk itself was destroyed and had to be rebuilt and raised. North of 10th Street there was little sand left at all in certain areas and as future storms continued to erode the beach serious problems arose. It is said that in front of Harrison Hall one could cast a line from the Boardwalk and reach water deep enough to catch fish.
The above scene was taken on 13th Street in the summer of 1968 where the rebuilt Boardwalk rose over five feet above the beach. Remnants of the old Boardwalk can be seen directly below it.
By Steve Green
Short work weeks
Conversations that stick for a while
Multiple days of fireworks for the 4th
The sound of flip flops doing their thing
A young puppy’s ‘zoomies’
Eating a light lunch but a big dinner
The temperature drop entering OC
Learning from those with special needs
Friday night dinners out
A pool dip after yard work
A handwritten card
To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com.
Photo from Bunk Mann’s collection
SUBMITTED PHOTOS/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
PLEIN AIR WORKSHOP
Acclaimed artist Kevin Fitzgerald returned to the Art League of Ocean City to lead a three-day Plein Air workshop. This workshop offered hands-on instruction and time to paint alongside others, giving participants a chance to capture the coast’s light and wind in oil on canvas. The workshop, called Plein Air Painting: Oil Techniques in the Field, took place in May at the Art League of Ocean City. It combined classroom lessons with outdoor painting, starting indoors to cover color, vision, and technique, then moving outside to parks, beaches, and the changing shoreline. Inspired by Barbizon and Impressionist traditions, the course focused on slow, thoughtful painting, treating the process as a journey rather than a race to a perfect result. The atmosphere encouraged curiosity and learning, with Fitzgerald’s calm guidance helping each student connect with the landscape.
by Steve Green
TThe Adventures of Fatherhood
he first college tuition payment was made this week. It came with a strange mix of thoughts.
First, I was grateful we started a college savings account when our kids were young. I recommend that to any young family — put away what you can, early and consistently, and you'll be glad you did when the college years arrive.
Then there was the reality of the situation. When Beckett committed to High Point University in the winter, the July 1 due date felt like an eternity away. Now Aug. 14 is creeping up on us, and we'll be leaving him behind in about six weeks.
I think Beckett is dealing with his own mix of feelings about college. He wants to enjoy summer, but he's also feeling some natural anxiety about the start of this next chapter.
I understand, because I felt the same way the summer between high school and college — anxious and excited about what lay ahead, but also a little wistful that the life I'd always known wouldn't be the same.
What he doesn't know seems to worry him, and I get that. For instance, when we gave him five nights at our oceanfront condo in Ocean City as a graduation gift, he didn't seem all that excited. He just didn't realize how great it would be to walk to the beach morning, afternoon or evening — he hadn't yet grasped the independence and convenience that came with it.
On the eve of his last night there, he texted us saying it had been amazing, and asked, "Is it booked this weekend?" When we said yes, he asked how much we were paying per night. I think he was already calculating whether he could afford to stay there all summer next year — he's dropped several hints along those lines in recent weeks.
He wasn't excited about his senior week staycation since he'd never experienced anything like it before. I suspect college will be the same story.
I've been telling him about the free time he'll have while taking five classes. He talks vaguely about playing sports, going to the gym, exploring other options — but I don't think it's clicked yet. It's only a matter of time before we hear from Beckett at college and it finally does click. I think he’s going to love college like I did. I believe he's prepared academically, and this summer we've been doing our best to shift some responsibilities onto him so he gets a feel for independent life.
I tell him college will be the best time of his life. It was for me, and I have a whole group of friends he grew up with who'd say the same — plenty of stories to back it up.
I'm holding onto the hope that, someday soon after dropoff, he'll reach out to us out of the blue — a sign that he's fully embraced the college experience and realized it's an extraordinary opportunity, one that can be life-changing when met with balance and flexibility.
ne huge unknown heading into Beckett's college years is the impact it will have on Carson. I suspect both will miss each other far more than they realize. The brotherly bond has always been there. But as both boys have matured, their relationship has shifted. They already go days without talking, even living in the same house, simply because of different schedules. But when we insist on a family dinner or outing, they pick up right where they left off. As we drive, I can see Carson in the rearview mirror, poking Beckett every 30 seconds to get a reaction. I see Beckett give him the side-eyed glance he's given him for years before slapping his arm away. Carson then whines and complains, in dramatic fashion, trying to get his big brother in trouble. It used to work. It's a game they've played since they were toddlers, and at 18 and 16, it's still both funny and annoying to watch.
In his college application essay, Beckett wrote about the gift his special needs brother Carson has been to him. I can't
get through it without tearing up — his heart spills out when measuring his life today and imagining it without Carson. The bond is unmistakable.
For Beckett, it began as confusion over why his special-needs brother was so different. Over the years, that confusion morphed into resentment, because they couldn't go into the backyard together without supervision, and Carson couldn't play catch with him the way his friends' little brothers could with theirs.
Later, it became something altogether different. Beckett took on a protector role after a few odd looks that strangers gave his little brother. As Carson got older, his differences became more pronounced, and Beckett grew angry at anyone who seemed to judge him. I also have had to show restraint on that front at times. This angst was something we had to temper along the way — it was healthy for Beckett to want to stand up for Carson, but it also required patience, awareness and case-by-case judgment. Not everything deserved a reaction, because not everything was a big deal in the big picture.
These days, I think Beckett is mostly in awe of Carson and what he has endured. His journey is a comeback story in the making. While nonverbal, Carson has a host of strengths, including the blessing that he’s smart, funny and has a natural thirst for learning about new things. It’s common to see him searching the internet for topics discussed at dinner – or wherever – that he’s unfamiliar with. Beckett admires that about Carson. Through it all, Beckett has an affection for his little brother that's beautiful. Carson has taught Beckett empathy, which may be the most endearing of all human traits.
It's going to be tough when we separate, but I know they'll pick up right where they left off when reunited. It's that way with all great friends and close family members.
(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.)
Everyone wins when OC modifies due to conditions
By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer
(July 3, 2026) The Ocean City Beach Patrol (OCBP) and the surf community are mainstays in our ocean town. Lately there has been talk regarding expanded “allowable surfing” hours during the day when the beach patrol is on duty. Articles have appeared in this paper and an interview was featured on WBOC-TV.
As of now surfing is permitted before 10 a.m. and after 5:30 p.m. plus there are three surfing beaches on weekdays, two of which rotate, and two surfing beaches on weekends, which also rotate. Surfers Adam Winter and Roger Bonvino as well as OCBP Captain Butch Arbin have been mentioned in the paper as well as in the television interview.
The surfing restrictions are in effect from Memorial Day weekend to roughly Labor Day, although they can be modified. The OCBP is the enforcement on the beach with safety being the utmost priority. What it all boils down to is surfers wanting more surf time and the OCBP mandate to keep the water safe for all concerned. Both factions have a love for the water and specifically the ocean. Some have built their lives around this Atlantic Ocean and either live in the area or keep coming back season after season and even in the off season.
I firmly believe that each “side” is well intentioned. Plenty of surfers are on the OCBP and vice versa. Our resort economy depends on visitors. As Captain Arbin says, “We can’t modify the rules just because the surf is good.” On the other hand, as Adam Winter opines, “We’re not here to make waves, we just want to ride them.”
Only time will tell if more changes can be made. A happy 4th of July to everyone.
Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City
Baked pork poppers with a kick
By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer
(July 3, 2026) Life is a constant change, and the kitchen is no exception. One must treat personal preference and professional interests not as fixed traits but as flexible hypothesis. In summation, “change” is the truth and the salt and pepper of cooking.
America is celebrating our country’s 250 anniversary. Festivities will be in full swing, grills will be sizzling, and the bar will be flowing.
Appetizers are always a hit with merriment for several reasons. The first offering spices up the menu, puts a little substance in your tummy with the adult beverages, and keeps guests happy while the host is finalizing the last touches for the yummy feast.
Jalapeno poppers are always a crowd pleaser. The crispy exterior and soft filling is a mouthful of goodness and textures. But I have to admit, sometimes I wish there was more filling. Let’s face it, a whole jalapeno can only hold so much.
If the jalapeno is cut in half, you can literally stuff that bad boy with a ton of filling. As a result, a tasty filling is imperative for a successful dish and the possibility of frying the popper is no longer a consideration.
Before we delve into the filling, should one blanch the jalapeno is a subject for debate. Unblanched jalapenos hold the shape better, are less effort, and increases the level of spiciness.
This step is purely based on personal preference. But if the amount of filling is increased, an unblanched jalapeno makes more sense.
A lot of recipes call for the combination of cream cheese and sharp cheese. If you cut the cream cheese in half and add Alouette Garlic and Herbs Spreadable Cheese, the end result is a more interesting foundation. This mixture is very rich, so a splash of lemon juice adds a nice brightness.
Then add your shredded sharp cheese and grated parmesan cheese to give the cheese mixture more depth of flavor.
The addition of chopped scallions and cilantro also cuts some of the richness and at the same time adds to the flavor profile.
Everything is better with bacon. But have you ever considered pork belly for a change? The crispy pork belly is thicker and still achieves the salty, smokey undertones. Choices equate creativity which is a good thing.
When one is trying to achieve a crispy exterior, I have always preferred frying over baking. However, a baked jalapeno popper gives one the opportunity to enhance and increase the filling for a more mouthwatering popper.
A few simple steps will elevate the level of crispness. When heat is applied
to the buttered panko breadcrumbs, crispness prevails. But the piece de resistance is to place the jalapeno poppers under the broiler for a few minutes. These steps ensure the coveted crunchiness which is mandatory when sinking your teeth into a jalapeno popper.
In closing, if you are a fan of fried jalapeno poppers, you might want to give baked jalapeno pork belly poppers a try. They are lip-smacking good. Enjoy!
Ingredients
2/3 cup finely chopped crispy pork belly
4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
4 ounces Alouette Garlic and Herbs
Spreadable Cheese, room temperature few splashes of fresh lemon juice
1 cup extra sharp cheese, shredded
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese ¼ cup finely chopped scallions
1/8 cup finely chopped cilantro
1 pound jalapeno peppers, about 12 to 14 1/3 cup unseasoned panko bread crumbs
2 teaspoons unsalted butter, melted
1. Cook the pork belly in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. When cooled, finely chop and set aside.
2. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
3. In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese, Alouette cheese, and lemon juice until thoroughly blended.
5. Slice the jalapenos lengthwise in half. If the jalapeno has a stem, try to keep it intact for or a more authentic
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look. Using a small spoon, scrape out the seeds and membrane. If you do not use gloves, make sure you wash your hands.
6. Stuff the jalapenos with a generous amount of the cream cheese mixture.
7. Combine the panko with the melted butter. Add the crispy pork belly to the panko mixture. Top each stuffed jalapeno with the panko mixture.
8. Arrange the peppers on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 17 to 20 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly. Place peppers under the broiler until they achieve a nice sear.
Secret Ingredient – Change
There is nothing permanent except change.
~ Heraclitus
• Power W unities with Craftsmenship and Care
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• Roofs & Siding Waashing & Painting IG OR TOO SMALL PRE-SALE HOME INSPECTIONS G p your sale on schedule ICES INCLUDE:
OCBP explains approach to surfing beaches
By Kristin Joson Contributing Writer
(July 3, 2026) Wondering where you can surf in Ocean City, Maryland? With the town’s beaches bustling from Memorial Day through Sunfest, surfing is only permitted in designated areas during the Ocean City Beach Patrol’s operating hours of 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., but that doesn’t mean surfers are left out of the fun.
Seven days a week, two rotating surfing beaches are designated along Ocean City’s coastline by approval of the Mayor and City Council. On weekdays, a third surf beach is also available in the Inlet area. These surf beaches are reserved exclusively for surfing. No bodyboards, paddleboards, or beater boards are allowed, helping to prevent injuries and conflicts with swimmers. Additionally, no swimming, wading or surfing instruction may take place on any of these surfing beaches. However, when no surfers are present, these zones can temporarily reopen to general swimming. Surf Rescue Technicians (lifeguards) are still staffed at surf beaches, ready in case we open
the area of beach to normal swimming activities until someone wants to surf.
Of course, surfers may use all 10 miles of Ocean City’s waves before 10 a.m. and after 5:30 p.m. every day of the year. We have a great relationship and partnership with both local surfing organizations and many members of our surfing community have assisted swimmers in distress when the Beach Patrol was not on duty.
Rotating schedule keeps it fair
The two rotating surf beaches move two blocks south each day, meaning the same street block won’t host a surf beach on the same date again for over 20 years. For example, if 10th Street has the surf beach during the second week of July this summer, it won’t fall there again during that same week for two decades. It will be on every beach a couple of times every season but during a different time of the season. That’s a small ask for such a great resource. Out of 154 guarded blocks in Ocean City, only two or three are reserved for surfers each day. The rest remain open for swimming and wading.
Inlet surf beach: a consistent spot
The third designated surfing beach
operates Monday through Friday at the Inlet, beginning at the south rock jetty and stretching 150 yards north. Chosen for its typically light weekday crowds and favorable waves, it’s a surfer’s favorite that also keeps swimmers safely away from the jetty’s hazards.
Weather may change the rules
In poor weather conditions, the Beach Patrol may modify the ordinance to allow surfing outside desig-
CROSSWORD
nated areas. This is evaluated daily, and depends on factors like beach crowd levels and safety (no lightning or thunderstorms). You can ask any lifeguard if surfing is permitted outside the usual areas, or call headquarters at 410-289-7556.
To receive real-time alerts when surfing rules change, sign up for the Surfing Notification Service on the Beach Patrol’s website. Local surf shops are also kept in the loop and
See BEACH Page 83
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
Aries, you are a powerhouse this week. Your energy levels will remain steady as the days go on, and people will notice your drive. Channel this energy into something positive.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
It’s your week right now, Taurus, and the stars want to indulge. Indulge in something luxurious and enjoy yourself. You have earned the right to some pampering.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Use your gift of gab to mend a relationship issue that stemmed from a misunderstanding, Gemini. Expect some invitations to come your way and a surprise text mid-week.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
You are feeling extra sensitive to others’ energy right now, Cancer. It is alright to decline social invitations to protect your peace of mind. A creative breakthrough may emerge while alone.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Don’t shy away from the microphone or the spotlight, Leo. Whether it is at work or in your personal life, your charisma will be your greatest asset this week. You will be the star of the show.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
Decluttering can go a long way to making you feel better, Virgo. Clear your desk to clear your mind. Once the physical chaos is gone, you may find the answer to the problem you have.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Libra, the scales start to tip toward your personal life instead of your professional one this week. Focus on your spouse or special someone and make time for extra moments together.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
Let go of a habit or a resentment that no longer serves you, Scorpio. Just like a snake sheds an old skin, you’ll feel lighter and ready to tackle anything.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
You might be ready for a trip, Sagittarius. Even if you can’t take a flight right now, explore a new neighborhood or try a different restaurant you’ve been meaning to check out.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
A small adjustment to your budget now may lead to a big payoff later on, Capricorn. Your financial discipline is a superpower this week, so stick to the plan.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
Others are finally catching up to all of your big ideas, Aquarius. Pitch that unconventional plan you have been holding back and you’ll likely have some fans.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
Pay attention to any coincidences that pop up during the next several days, Pisces. The universe is trying to tell you something about your next move.
Beach Patrol stresses surf safety
Continued from Page 82
may help spread the word.
On modified surfing days, swimmers still have the right of way, and surfers must wear a leash and remain 50 yards away from any swimmers per town ordinance. Surf beaches remain staffed even during these special conditions.
Who’s in charge of the surf beach?
Surf beach areas are clearly marked with yellow lifeguard stands, boundary flags, and signage. These zones are managed by Surf Beach Facilitators (SBFs), Beach Patrol members wearing green or yellow uniforms to distinguish them from traditional lifeguards. SBFs arrive at 9:30 a.m. (a half hour earlier than the rest of the patrol) each day to explain rules to beachgoers and ensure smooth operation. They also visit the next day’s surf beach location in advance to inform beach patrons. In 2020, new educational signs were added at beach entrances to help the public better understand the surf beach rules. If the surf beach is temporarily open for swimming, SBFs assist lifeguards with enforcement until one or more surfers arrive and the beach become an exclusive surfing area again.
Safety is the bottom line
The primary reason behind Ocean City’s surf beach program is safety. Keeping swimmers and surfers apart prevents accidents and ensures that everyone, from beginner bodyboarders to experienced surfers, can enjoy the ocean safely. While some younger surfers may claim Ocean City’s rules are strict, we are not unique. Similar policies exist in places like Pacific Beach and Del Mar, California, especially during peak seasons.
Surf events, seasonal changes
Special events like surf contests may be held on non-rotating surf beaches with permits from the Mayor and City Council. These events, drawing spectators and competitors alike, are fun to watch, but swimming is not permitted in those zones during the event. Although this may cause you to walk half a block to enter the water, remember that surfing is important to the whole beach experience and although it may tie up a few blocks, swimmer still have over 150 blocks to enjoy.
After Labor Day, Ocean City allows Stand-Up Paddleboards (SUPs) and similar equipment to be used on beaches (excluding surf beaches) under Section 106-94 (11). SUPs are allowed beginning on the Monday following Labor Day, on any day that
surfing is modified (never on a surfing beach) Details on specific requirements included in the ordinance are available on the town’s website. Have fun, ride safely, and look out for others.
To find the daily surf beach rotation, visit local surf shops or check the Beach Patrol website at www.ococean.com/ocbp and don’t forget to sign up for the surfing notification service. For info about the Surfing Beach Facilitator program, job applications, or general questions, call 410-289-7556 or visit JoinBeachPatrol.com.
And remember the Beach Patrol’s top safety tip:
“Keep your feet in the sand, until the lifeguard’s in the stand!” - Lt. Ward Kovacs
It could save a life, yours.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Newly appointed Surf Beach Facilitators (SBFs) are pictured before rookie graduation by the pier last Thursday.
Smith Island Cruises
FIRST FRIDAY RECEPTION HELD
The Ocean City Center for the Arts hosted the First Friday opening reception on June 5. Above left, Art League of Ocean City Executive Director Rina Thaler is pictured with Sav Chisholm, recipient of the 2026 Eva Fox Award Scholarship from the ALOC. Above right, from left, winners of the Ride, Glide, Cast: A Coastal State of Mind are shown with, from left, Laura Hickman (Judge), Janice Earley (3rd Place), Morgan Adams (1st Place), Patrick Leib (2nd Place), Gail Stern (Honorable Mention), and Crystal Collins (ALOC Board President). Pictured, above left, are Sherrie Beckstead and Zane Devito, recipient of the Sidney M. Beckstead Award Scholarship. Above right, returning local artist Matt Meinhardt impressed visitors with his paint-
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., July 3
ANNUAL FIREWORKS CELEBRATION IN BERLIN
Heron Park (formerly Berlin Falls Park), 10009 Old Ocean City Blvd., Berlin. 9:15 p.m. https://www.facebook.com/ events/911816081891789.
FIREWORK WATCHING IN BERLIN
Berlin First Baptist Church, 613 William St., 6 p.m. Moon bounces, face painting, games, hot dogs, chips, drinks and more. Bring a blanket or chair and watch the fireworks. All are welcome.
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
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MARYLAND!
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Maryland declared its independence from England 250 years ago. Celebrate by watching a movie and enjoying a tasty treat. 410-208-4014
THE ART LEAGUE OF OCEAN CITY’S JULY FIRST FRIDAY OPENING RECEPTION
Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 5-7 p.m. Join us for July’s Opening Reception at The Art League of Ocean City. Free entry! Mingle, meet the artists, enjoy local refreshments. 410-524-9433
Sat., July 4
JULY 4TH FIREWORKS - DOWNTOWN
Caroline St. Stage, 2 N. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 6 p.m. The Broken Hearts: A Tribute to Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, 6 p.m.; Live Speed Painter Jessica K. Haas, 7 p.m.; Real Diamond: The Premier Neil Diamond Tribute Band, 8 p.m.; and Fireworks, 9:30 p.m.
JULY 4TH FIREWORKS - UPTOWN
Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 8 p.m. Featuring music from DJ BK and Radio Ocean City, 8 p.m.; and Fireworks, 9:30 p.m.
4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION & FIREWORKS
Veterans Memorial Park, Race Track Road, Ocean Pines, 4-9 p.m. Carnival games, music and food. Carnival admission fee is $20/wristband. Fireworks
begin at 9:15 p.m. Parking in green lot next to Taylor Bank, OP library. Handicap parking on-site. 410-641-7052
4TH FREEDOM 5K
Veterans Memorial Park, Race Track Road, Ocean Pines, 8 a.m. Day-of registration starts at 7 a.m. Cost is $30 in advance or $35 day of. Pre-register: events.elitefeats.com/26oceanpines. Tshirts guaranteed to those pre-registered. Dress in patriotic outfits. 410-641-7052
AMERICAN REVOLUTIONARY WAR PATRIOTS MARKER DEDICATION
Worcester County Veterans Memorial, 11144 Cathell Road, Ocean Pines, 1 p.m. General Levin Winder Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, will unveil and dedicate a Patriots Pathway marker honoring American Revolutionary War Patriots. All are welcome.
FISH TALES ANNUAL HOT DOG EATING CONTEST
Fish Tales Bar and Grill, 2107 Herring Way, Ocean City, 2 p.m. Register now through 12 p.m., July 4. Open to all those 18 years and older. Winner receives at least a $1,000 cash prize, a trophy and bragging rights. Visit the Bahia Marina Tackle Shop to sign up.
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. 410-641-7052, https://www.oceanpines.org/web/pages /farmers-artisans-market
Sun., July 5
SUNDAES IN THE PARK WITH FIREWORKS Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 7-9 p.m. Featuring “M80: Best of 80’s & 90’s.” Live music, kids’ activities and ice cream for purchase. Followed by fireworks.
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., July 6
BABY TIME
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Songs, stories and giggles. For ages 0-2 years. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org
STORY TIME MERMAIDS
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 celebrate our nation with a patriotic movie. For ages 9 years and older. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org
CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP
TidalHealth John H. “Jack” Burbage, Jr. Cancer Center, 9707 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3-4 p.m. Held the first Monday of each month. 410-641-2626, nicole.fry@tidalhealth.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. Held weekly on Mondays. 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., July 7
MOMMY/DADDY & ME CRAFT TIME
Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 11 a.m.-noon. Featuring a short story and craft. Parents may need to assist child with crafts. All materials provided. Cost is $4. Pre-registration required: 410-641-7052, www.oceanpines.org.
FAITH-BASED PARTNERSHIP
Worcester County, 10-11 a.m. Please register to learn about this month’s meeting location. 410-641-9725, gail.mansell@tidalhealth.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
PLAY TIME
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 10:30 a.m. Join in for a variety of activities and toys. For ages 2-5 years. 410-957-0878, worcesterlibrary.org
IMPROV 4 KIDS!
Snow Hill Middle School, 522 Coulbourne Lane, 10:30 a.m. Through hilarious skits, spontaneous songs and audience participation children will tap into their creativity, build confidence and develop essential communication skills. 410-632-5622
OC KNITTING GROUP
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Bring whatever project you happen to be working on. 410-524-1818, 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
IMPROV 4 KIDS!
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Through hilarious skits, spontaneous songs, and audience participation, children will tap into their creativity, build confidence and develop essential community skills. Best for ages 6-18 years. 410-208-4014
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS SEAFOOD NIGHT Columbus Hall, 9901 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Steamed crabs, crab cakes, fried seafood platters, and a menu for all is available. You must
Continued on Page 86
CALENDAR
pre-order crabs by calling 410-524-7994 or visiting https://koc9053-seafoodnights.square.site/.
BAD ART NIGHT
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 5:30 p.m. Art so bad, it’s good. All supplies provided. The best bad art will receive a certificate. Light snacks provided. 410524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org
BEACH HEROES-OC
Tuesdays - Volunteer beach clean-up group meets from 9-10 a.m., year-round. Trash bags, grabbers and gloves provided. Check the Facebook page “Beach Heroes-OC” for weekly meeting locations. All are welcome.
JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING
Tuesdays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 7 p.m. www.jw.org
TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY
Tuesdays - Worcester County Health Department, 9730 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3:30-4:30 p.m. TOPS is a weekly support and education group promoting weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. 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 8
MOVIES ON THE BEACH
Carousel Oceanfront Hotel & Condos, 11700 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 8:30 p.m. Featured movie is “The Bad Guys 2.” Free movies on the beach every Wednesday, June 3-Aug. 12. Bring blankets, chairs and snacks. Movie lineup: https://www.ococean.com/things-todo/free-family-fun/.
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
SINGO BINGO
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines
Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m. Love music? Play Bingo with a twist and choose a prize. For families. 410-2084014, worcesterlibrary.org
WATER BEAD DECORATION @ 50PLUS CENTER
Snow Hill 50plus Center, 4767 Snow Hill Road, 11 a.m. Make a Water Bead, water decoration. All supplies provided. 410-632-5622, 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.
STROKE SUPPORT GROUP
TidalHealth Neurology, 9714 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3:15-4 p.m. Held the second Wednesday of each month. 410641-4765, betty.darby-glime@tidalhealth.org
SEA GLASS ART: SUMMER SEA GULLS
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 5 p.m. Make a summary scene with sea glass, wine corks and paint. Limit 15. Registration is required: 410-957-0878. worcesterlibrary.org
IMPROV 4 KIDS!
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Through hilarious skits, spontaneous songs and audience participation children will tap into their creativity, build confidence and develop essential communication skills. 410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org
KIWANIS CLUB MEETING
Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. Last Wednesday of the month meetings are offsite and information can be found on the website and Facebook. www.kiwanisofopoc.org.
CASH BINGO
Wednesdays - Ocean City Elks Lodge 2645, 13708 Sinepuxent Ave. Door open at 5 p.m., bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. Food available before bingo. 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 9
SUNSET PARK CONCERTS
Sunset Park, 700 S. Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City. 7-9 p.m. Featuring “The Permilla Project.” Admission to the park is free. https://www.ococean.com/thingsto-do/free-family-fun/sunset-parkparty-nights/
OCEAN PINES CONCERTS IN THE PARK
White Horse Park Pavilion, Ocean Pines, 7-9 p.m. Free community event featuring “Colossal Fossil Sauce.” Food for sale. BYOB welcome. 410-641-7052
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
IMPROV 4 KIDS!
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Through hilarious skits, spontaneous songs and audience participation, children will tap into their creativity, build confidence and develop essential communication skills. Best for ages 6-18 years.
STORY TIME: ‘BIG GORILLA’
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
DOCUMENTARY SCREENING
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. A documentary about the largest and most complete T. Rex unearthed and the ten year battle that ensued after the discovery. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org
IMPROV 4 KIDS!
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 2 p.m. Through hilarious skits, spontaneous songs and audience participation, children will tap into their creativity, build confidence and develop essential communication skills. Best for ages 6-18 years. 410-9570878
BINGO
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Play a lively game of Bingo and win fun prizes. Limited to the first 35 participants. First come, first served. 410-5241818, worcesterlibrary.org
ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUP
TidalHealth Neurology, 9714 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3-4:30 p.m. Hosted by the Worcester Commission on Aging. Held the second Thursday of each month. 410-632-0111, Ext. 727; heather.atkins@worcoa.org
DRY PANTRY
Thursdays - St. Paul United Methodist Church, 405 Flower Street, Berlin, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. For those in need of resources such as paper products, laundry products, baby items, and personal care items. Limits apply. 410-641-0270
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 Highway, 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 -50-raffles/md5050/charities/ocean-pines
RUNAWAY BRIDE WALKING TOUR
Stroll down Main Street in Berlin and visit the shops where Ike fell in love with Maggie. Visit the Atlantic Hotel where many of the scenes were filmed. Map of filming locations: https://berlinmainstreet.com/ Runaway-Bride-Walking-Tour.pdf.
Crossword answers from page 82
JULY 3, 2026 OC Today-Dispatch 87
MARKETPLACE
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.
NOW HIRING
FULL TIME • DRIVER Great Pay!!
Call 410-726-7061 Or Apply Within at 56th Street, Bayside
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
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
Office Manager/Office
Admin White Horse Park Community Association, Berlin. Experienced, Quickbooks knowledgeable, enjoys working with the public, can multitask. Full time, Part time, Year round. Please email for appointment Whpcamd@yahoo.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
RENTALS
Seeking Year-Round Rentals! Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555.
skills, and the ability to learn a variety of systems. Must be knowledgeable in creating spreadsheets & flyers. Position is Monday thru Friday with some weekends. Send resume to: info@travelwithoasis.com No Phone Calls
Multi-Site Operations Manager
Manufacturing Company has a position open for a Multi-Site Operations Manager. Candidate will plan, direct, coordinate, and oversee multi-site plant manufacturing operations, be responsible for manufacturing and distribution departments and directing daily operations, create and execute strategies and policies, establish and communicate strategic directions, collaborate with executive leadership, collaborate with key stakeholders, provide input and recommendations regarding staffing, wage/salary guidelines, materials and capital expenditures, provide monthly responses to budget variance, oversee multi-CAPEX projects, design and implement physical design/layouts, ensure compliance with the Quality (ISO), review quality assurance initiatives, monitor production costs, develop and enforce safety protocols and procedures, provide leadership to manufacturing and distribution teams, oversee employee performance and set performance goals, develop leaders and build organizational capability, develop operational strategies including standardizing processes and driving lean/continuous improvement initiatives, oversee creation and management budgets and collaborate with procurement and sourcing teams.
U.S. Bachelor’s degree, or foreign equivalent, in business administration or industrial engineering as well as trained/skilled in project management, manufacturing practices, total productive maintenance (TPM), Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), performance management programs, quality standard in manufacturing, knowledge of profit/loss in small to mid-size organization, experience with CAPEX management, familiar with continuous improvement initiatives, inventory management, knowledge of lean manufacturing initiatives and exposure to Research and Development (R&D) in manufacturing.
Send applications to Roberto Salcido at rsalcido@riccachemical.com or mail to 412 West Fork Drive, Arlington, Texas 76012.
Beach House Rental 3-bed, 3-bath on 26th Street. https://bit.ly/3RR214G
OFFICE/STORAGE SPACE FOR RENT Conveniently located at Herring Creek Professional Center, Unit 28, this 775-square-foot office/storage unit offers flexible space suitable for a small business, professional office, workshop, or storage needs. • 775 square feet • Professional business park setting • Flexible office and storage layout • Reasonable rent. For additional information or to schedule a viewing, call 410-726-2309 or email: info@kiteloft.com.
OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT
Downtown Berlin
$425 month + utils. 2 units available. Call 410-713-2065.
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
Looking for space, comfort and great views?
Spacious, climatecontrolled office available, with use of conference room and reception area, in a modern, wellmaintained building in prime Ocean City location. Call 410-524-3440 for appointment.
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.
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 SERVICES
LARRY’S HANDYMAN SERVICES No job too small, windows, entrance doors, interior doors, storm doors, shower doors, drywall repairs and paint, laminate floors, interior paint. Over 40 years of carpentry experience. Please call Larry, 410-251-9066
Larryandkim1954@ gmail.com WANT
3 WINDOW A/C UNITS Used only 4 days while main HVAC compressor was replaced. 2 LG brand 12K BTU $300 ea. and 1 LG brand 8K BTU $200. All three $750. Brad, 410-935-1963
2001 CHEVROLET
- NOT just a
Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-855-337-5228 www.dental50plus.com/ MDDC #6258
SALE Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-855-993-0969 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.
MISC. FOR SALE Get Boost Infinite! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 855-977-5719
Call Today! 1-855-407-6870 REAL ESTATE We Buy Houses for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-866-541-7929
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.
turn of his deposit without interest.
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
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 re-
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
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
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
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 OCD-6/18/3t
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
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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
To all persons interested in the estate of ALLEN F HUDSON Estate No. 21159 Notice is given that AARON B HUDSON whose address is 36358 BRITTINGHAM ST WILLARDS, MD 21874-1105, VALERIE R HUDSON YEAGER whose address is 36113 TIMBER DR WILLARDS, MD 21874-1352 were on JUNE 15, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ALLEN F HUDSON who died on MARCH 12, 2026 with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or be-
fore 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 & 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, 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 Residential 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
Date of publication: July 02, 2026
SIDRAH IJAZ
429 W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863 Plaintiff, v.
JENKINS ARNOLD aka ARNOLD JENKINS
5746 Coventry Parish Road Westover, MD 21871 Defendant, And POCOMOKE CITY, MARYLAND 101 Clarke Ave Pocomoke City, MD 21851 Defendant, And WORCESTER COUNTY
Attn: Phil Thompson l West Market Street, Room 1105 Snow Hill, MD 21863, Defendant, And
ALL PERSONS THAT HAVE OR CLAIM TO HAVE ANY INTEREST IN PROPERTY SITUATE IN WORCESTER CO, MD
DESCRIBED AS: LOT 2 3267 Sq Ft 707 Clarke Ave Taylors Subdiv, Pocomoke Tax Account# 01-015923, Defendant. IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND
Case No.: C-23-CV-26-000181
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property described below and located in Worcester County, sold by the Collector of Taxes for the County of Worcester and the State of Maryland to the Plaintiff in this proceeding: Account No. 01-015923, Property description: Lot 2 3267 St Ft 707 Clarke Ave Taylors Subdiv, Pocomoke. Deed Reference: 5792/459, Assessed to Jenkins Arnold, AK.A Arnold Jenkins, owned by Jenkins Arnold, AKA Arnold Jenkins. The Complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid.
It is, thereupon this 18th of June, 2026, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, ORDERED that notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this order in some newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County, Maryland once a week for three (3) successive weeks, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 23rd day of August, 2026, and redeem the property described above and answer the Complaint or thereafter a final judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property, and vesting in the Plaintiff title, free and clear of all encumbrances.
Brian D. Shockley Judge, Circuit Court for Worcester County True Copy
Test: Susan A. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD
TOWN OF BERLIN NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Monday, July 13, 2026
CITIZEN PARTICIPATION COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT
The Town of Berlin will conduct a Public Hearing to update the citizens about the progress of the FY25 Maryland Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) MD25-CD-08, Elimination of Slum and Blight related to the future Berlin Community Center on the Historic Flower Street School site at 130 Flower Street.
The hearing will be held at the Berlin Public Library, 2nd Floor Community Conference Room, at 6:00 pm on July 13, 2026.
The Maryland Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program is a federally funded program designed to assist governments with activities directed toward neighborhood and housing revitalization, economic development, and improved community facilities and services. It is administered by the Department of Housing and Community Development.
The Maryland CDBG Program reflects the State's economic and community development priorities and provides public funds for activities, which meet one of the following national objectives, in accordance with the federal Housing Community Development Act of 1974, as amended, that:
1. benefit to low and moderate-income persons and households;
2. aid in the prevention or elimination of slums or blight;
3. meet other community development needs of an urgent nature or that are an immediate threat to community health and welfare.
Efforts will be made to accommodate the disabled and non-Englishspeaking residents with 5 days’ advance notice to Sara Gorfinkel at 410-641-3858 or mayorzack@berlinmd.gov.
Zack Tyndall, Mayor OCD-7/2/2t
QUINN W MCGINNES
WILLIAMS MOORE, L.L.P.
12800 HOSPITALITY WAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-9394
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of CHRISTINE HOPKINS Estate No. 21164 Notice is given that CHARLES R JOHNSON whose address is 44 SUGARLAND SQUARE CT STERLING, VA 20164-1639 was on JUNE 24, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of CHRISTINE HOPKINS who died
on APRIL 29, 2026 without a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 24th day of 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 24th 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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NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE
Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Class: "B" BEERWINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Lee Mark Nardyz, 41 Watergreen Lane, Ocean Pines, MD 21811; Susan Ann Nardyz, 41 Watergreen Lane, Ocean Pines, MD 21811.
For: Watergreen Key, LLC
For the premises known as and located at:
T/A: Brine Oyster Social 11310 Manklin Creek Road Ocean Pines, Maryland 21811
There will be a public hearing on the application at the Worcester County Government Center, Room 1102, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: July 15, 2026 @ 1:15 P.M.
The Board welcomes written or oral comments at said public hearing from any interested party. Information regarding this hearing can be found at www.co.worcester.md.us. OCD-7/2/2t
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE
Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Transfer of a Class: "B" BEER-WINE License: 7
Day, By: Chatcha Phong Latkan, 38005 Bayview Circle W, Selbyville, DE 19975; Yi Kang Dong, 12551 Torquay Road, Ocean City, MD 21842.
For:NOKSUBMONGKHOL, LLC
For the premises known as and located at:
T/A: Thai-O-Cha 13727 Coastal Highway Ocean City, Maryland 21842
Formerly: Thai-O-Cha, LLC
T/A Thai-O-Cha
There will be a public hearing on the application at the Worcester County Government Center, Room 1102, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: July 15, 2026 @ 1:25 P.M.
The Board welcomes written or oral comments at said public hearing from any interested party. Information regarding this hearing can be found at www.co.worcester.md.us.
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NOTICE OF
APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE
Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Transfer of a Class: "B" BEER-WINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Spencer Ayres Cropper, 42 Watergreen Lane, Berlin, MD 21811; Joseph Gallagher Rattigan, 617 Quincy Lane, Wexford, PA 15090; Aaron Andrew Schroeder, 115 Lightfoot Lane, Dillsburg, PA 17019.
For: RRGC Restaurant, LLC
For the premises known as and located at:
T/A: Turn at River Run 11620 Masters Lane Berlin, Maryland 21811
Formerly: Kim Acton's Starr Restaurant
There will be a public hearing on the application at the Worcester County Government Center, Room 1102, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: July 15, 2026 @ 1:35 P.M.
The Board welcomes written or oral comments at said public hearing from any interested party. Information regarding this hearing can be found at www.co.worcester.md.us.
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NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE
Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Promoter's License, By: Danielle Nauschuetz, 12514 Selsey Road, Ocean City, MD 21842; Hansen Foscolo, 12502 Selsey Road, Ocean City, MD 21842.
For: OC Rock and Ride, LLC
For the premises known as and located at:
T/A: OC Rock and Ride - (Ocean City Convention Center) Wednesday, September 9, 2026 to Saturday, September 12, 2026
Alcoholic Beverage Sale HoursBegins 10:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. each day
Sunday, September 13, 2026
Alcoholic Beverage Sale HoursBegins 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. 4001 Coastal Highway,
Ocean City, MD 21842
There will be a public hearing on the application at the Worcester County Government Center, Room 1102, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: July 15, 2026 @ 2:00 P.M.
The Board welcomes written or oral comments at said public hearing from any interested party. Information regarding this hearing can be found at www.co.worcester.md.us.
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NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE
Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Promoter's License, By: Tyler R. Odachowski, 706 Edgewater Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842; Matthew Odachowski, 405 South Street, Key West, FL 33040. For: OC Rock and Ride, LLC
For the premises known as and located at:
T/A: OC Rock and Ride - (OC Inlet Parking Lot)
Wednesday, September 9, 2026 to Saturday, September 12, 2026 Alcoholic Beverage Sale Hours - Begins 1:00 p.m. until 10:30 p.m. each day
Ocean City Inlet Parking Lot 807 S. Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842
There will be a public hearing on the application at the Worcester County Government Center, Room 1102, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: July 15, 2026 @ 1:45 P.M.
The Board welcomes written or oral comments at said public hearing from any interested party. Information regarding this hearing can be found at www.co.worcester.md.us. OCD-7/2/2t
JAMES W. ALMAND ESQ
AYRES JENKINS GORDY & ALMAND, PA 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 200
OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of ROBERT PAUL HEINZ Estate No. 21168 Notice is given that LESLIE HEINZ whose address is 7167 CHANDLER DR BERLIN, MD 21811-2436 was on JUNE 24, 2026 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of ROBERT PAUL HEINZ who died on DECEMBER 10, 2025 without a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment 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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JORHEA N. WRIGHT ESQ ARMISTEAD, LEE, RUST & WRIGHT, P.A. 114 BAY STREET, BUILDING C EASTON, MD 21601
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the es-
tate of KATHY ANN ZEVE Estate No. 21169 Notice is given that DAVID C CORBIN whose address is 214 WEB FOOT LN STEVENSVILLE, MD 21666-2428 was on JUNE 25, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of KATHY ANN ZEVE who died on JUNE 06, 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 25th 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 25th 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-7/2/3t
Laura H.G. O’Sullivan, et al., Substitute Trustees Plaintiffs vs.
Jason Coyman Defendant IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND Civil No. C-23-CV-25-000349
NOTICE
ORDERED, this 26th day of June, 2026 by the Circuit Court of WORCESTER COUNTY, Maryland, that the sale of the property at 160 Intrepid Lane, Unit 93, Berlin, Maryland 21811 mentioned in these proceedings, made and reported by Laura H.G. O’Sullivan, et. al, Substitute Trustees, be ratified and confirmed, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the
27th day of July, 2026 next, provided a copy of this notice be inserted in some newspaper published in said County once in each of three successive weeks before the 20th day of July, 2026, next.
The report states the amount of sale to be $248,788.00.
Susan R. Braniecki CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT
WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND
True Copy
Test: Susan R. Braniecki
Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD
OCD-7/2/3t
INVITATION TO BID
TOWN OF SNOW HILL REQUEST FOR BIDS
NEW REAR LOADER REFUSE TRUCK
You are invited to bid on a New Rear Loader Refuse Truck for the Town of Snow Hill. The new truck will replace the existing New Way Cobra 11145C-08-12 that is currently inoperable and needs repair. The new truck will have a minimum 20 yard capacity, Automatic Transmission, Halogen work lights in hopper area, strobe light end of tailgate, safety shut down curb side, safety vision 5.5” black and white rear vision camera with audio, fire extinguisher 10 pound, triangle kit, driver alert buzzer curb side, full body weld inside vs. stitched, rear mud flaps, access door step ladder, 2 180 Rotary actuated cart tippers, with warranty. We are also looking for a value on the trade in of our current inoperable New Way Cobra serial # 11145C08-12 and seek to consider credit for this truck.
Bids must be on a lump sum basis with delivery due as soon as possible but not later than October 31, 2026.
The Town of Snow Hill will receive sealed bids until 2:00 PM, July 24th, 2026, clearly marked “Garbage Truck Bid “at the Town of Snow Hill Municipal Building, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863. No electronic bids will be accepted. Bids received after this time will not be accepted. Bids will be opened publicly in Town Hall.
Additional details can be requested by contacting Town administration at adminco@snowhillmd.gov or Adminasst@snowhillmd.gov or calling 410-632-2080.
An invitation to bid, request for proposal, or other solicitation may be canceled, or any or all bids or proposals may be rejected in whole or part, as may be specified in the solicitation when it is in the best interest of the Town. The reasons shall be made part of the formal bid file.
OCD-7/2/2t
BID SOLICITATION
Dugout Replacement Project at John Walter Smith (JWS) Park Worcester County is seeking Bids from qualified Vendors for the John Walter Smith (JWS) Park - Dugout Replacement Project in conformity with the requirements contained in the Documents.
Bid 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, by calling 410-632-1194 during normal business hours, or via the County’s Bids page on the County’s website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their bids. Worcester County is not responsible for the content of any Bid Document received through any third party bid service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Bid Documents.
A pre-bid meeting will be held at 10:00 a.m. on July 20, 2026, at the south end of John Walter Smith (JWS) Park Road, Snow Hill, MD 21863 (adjacent to ball fields).
The last date/time for questions will be noon on July 29, 2026.
Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than August 12, 2026, at 2 p.m. and will be opened and read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863.
Late Bid Documents cannot be accepted.
Envelopes shall be marked “Bid Solicitation – JWS Dugout Replacement” in the lower left-hand corner. Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for award of this solicitation.
OCD-7/2/1t
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of FRANCIS ANTHONY PFEIFER SR Estate No. 18182 Notice is given that MICHAEL PFEIFER whose address is 62 BEECH HILL DR., NEWARK, DE 19711-2950 was on JUNE 23, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of FRANCIS ANTHONY PFEIFER SR who died on JANUARY 27, 2020 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 23rd 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 23rd 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-7/2/3t
SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21165 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MARK ANDREW MOSMILLER
Notice is given that Sheila Mosmiller Vidmar, 1200 Steuart St., Unit 1113, Baltimore, MD 212305391, was on June 23, 2026 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Mark Andrew Mosmiller who died on May 08, 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 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.
Sheila Mosmiller Vidmar Personal Representative True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott
One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074
Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: July 02, 2026
OCD-7/2/1t
SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19309 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF GAVIN ROSS KNUPP
Notice is given that Raymond Knupp, 218 Morris Drive, Salisbury, MD 21804, was on July 21, 2022 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Gavin Ross Knupp who died on July 11, 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 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.
Raymond Knupp Personal Representative True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott
One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074
Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest
Date of publication: July 02, 2026
Conditions placed on BZA’s ruling
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(July 3, 2026) Members of the Ocean City Board of Zoning Appeals warned a resort business owner to keep her outdoor displays in line with city code and staff recommendations before granting a special exception for her storefront.
The 5-0 vote came last Thursday, after Thrift and Treasures owner Guilia Campbell went before the board seeking a special exception to display retail items outside of her shop at the corner of 26th Street and Philadelphia Avenue.
As part of the approval, the board implemented more than a dozen conditions, all of which were aimed at addressing past problems at the shop.
“I agree the history is not good here,” board member John Moran said. “But I think staff has made a reasonable effort to address that history.”
During the June 25 public hearing, Ocean City Zoning Analyst Chase Phillips presented board members with the outdoor display special exception, which he said can be made if it does not adversely affect neighboring properties and is compatible with the character of the neighborhood. Such displays, he said, should be arranged in an orderly manner, delineated by planters or decorative fea-
tures, and only include items that are sold inside the shop.
However, Phillips warned board members of previous violations that have occurred at the business since the appeals board granted an outdoor display special exception in April of 2023. The violations – which included those from the fire marshal’s office, the zoning department, and the city manager’s office – resulted in a suspended business license for a period of time in 2025.
“Those issues have since been remediated,” he added. “So at this point, because resolutions have been made for those previous violations, it’s now appropriate for the board to consider whether the criteria can be met for another approval to be provided.”
If given a favorable vote, Phillips said staff recommended 11 conditions, including that the display be kept to 50 square feet, that the approval only be valid for one year, and merchandise can only be displayed outdoors during business hours.
Staff also recommended that there be no music or light displays, no offensive displays, and that any approval be subject to a written agreement between the city and the applicant.
“In the past, the applicant has not used music or amplified sounds … and all merchandise outside has been age appropriate,” Phillips said. “However, staff has been concerned by lack of property maintenance, like storage of merchandise on the porch.”
For her part, Campbell said she had learned from her past mistakes and asked the board for forgiveness. She said the porch has since been cleaned and that the business would abide by the conditions staff presented.
“I will present everything as nicely as I can,” she said.
The lengthy public hearing included conversations about storage,
the use of the store’s porch, and a donation box that Campbell kept outside. The hearing also included public comment from nearby resident Pam Robertson, who took issue with the Thrift and Treasures sign blocking the line of sight along Philadelphia Avenue.
At the close of the public hearing, board member Emily Nock shared her concerns with granting another special exception. She pointed to the recent violations as justification.
“Quite frankly, I’m not comfortable granting a special exception when she’s had so many violations so recently,” she said. “I mean, her business was shut down just last year. I’d like to see her go violation free for at least a year before we consider something.”
While Nock argued the special exception would negatively affect the surrounding community, Moran said evidence and testimony submitted into the record demonstrated that the exception would not affect adjacent properties and was compatible with the neighborhood’s character.
Chair Chris Rudolf added that the special exception was a one-year approval, not the traditional three-year approval typically granted to applicants.
“I think everyone deserves a second chance,” he said, noting that the one year would serve as a “trial period” for the business owner.
After further discussion, the board voted unanimously to grant the oneyear approval with staff conditions and further additions and amendments. Those amendments made it clear that the agreement and the staff conditions be strictly enforced, that the display area would include the porch, and that anything dropped off in the donation box be removed as soon as possible.
“There should be strict adherence to these requirements,” Nock said.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Concerns about the amount of merchandise displayed outside a local business were expressed at the Ocean City Board of Zoning Appeals meeting last week.
Downtown apartments move ahead after BZA’s approval
Off-street parking space width reduced to allow for project’s structural columns
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(July 3, 2026) A special parking exception will allow the development of a downtown apartment complex to move to the next step in the planning process.
On June 25, attorney Hugh Cropper came before the Ocean City Board of Zoning Appeals on behalf of MSG Development LLC to request a special parking exception to reduce the width of five required off-street parking spaces at 703 Baltimore Avenue.
The reduction, staff said, will make room for structural columns that will be used in the development of apartment units above.
“This request needs action from the board of zoning appeals prior to going to the planning commission,” Ocean City Zoning Analyst Chase Phillips said. “So [the project] is still subject to change.”
According to city code, unenclosed parking spaces must meet the 9-by20 foot minimum area. However, Cropper said he was seeking a 6-inch reduction of each of the five spaces to allow for structural columns.
“No parking space will be encumbered by an encroachment on both sides,” he said. “It will only be on one side of every space.”
To grant the request, the appeals board must find that the parking exception would not adversely affect neighboring properties, or that the property’s use or character makes the full provision of parking unnecessary.
Cropper, alongside architect Jack Mumford, argued that the request met both requirements. For his part, Cropper said the redevelopment would not only cure a three-space deficiency that currently exists, but would improve ingress and egress at the property.
“Right now, that alley is tight with
the existing structure …,” he said. “This will actually improve neighboring properties and will not have an adverse impact.”
Following the applicant’s presentation, the appeals board voted 5-0 to approve the special parking exception. Staff noted that the applicant had also requested two tandem parking spaces onsite, but that it was ultimately determined the spaces were permitted through development incentives overseen by the Ocean City Development Corporation.
“In our downtown design overlay district, there are design incentives … ,” Planning and Community Development Director George Bendler said. “They did go through the process to receive the incentives for this project.”
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
The Board of Zoning Appeals approved a special parking exception to allow a property owner on Baltimore Avenue to proceed with redevelopment.
Increased tuition benefit passes OC council
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(July 3, 2026) The Ocean City Council this week agreed to increase tuition benefits for city government employees.
While an existing policy currently reimburses 50% of an employee’s tuition, up to a maximum of $2,000 per year, council members at a work session Tuesday voted to increase the cap to $3,000 annually, with the city covering 100% of that cost. Officials say the change not only promotes professional development, but also makes a stronger workforce.
“The more we do for them, the better,”
Councilman Jake Mitrecic said this week. “We’ll make ourselves a more attractive place to work, take care of the people we have here, and have them move up and continue to make our town great.”
Currently, the tuition money the town provides employees can be used for courses from an accredited institution that either relates to the worker’s current position, or provides skills that could help them to advance within the town.
However, Human Resources Director Katie Callan told city officials this week that the benefit is not widely
used, as only 11 of the city’s 620 fulltime employees have taken advantage of the program in the last five years.
“So, while that is certainly generous, an employee would actually have to go out of pocket $4,000 before they got reimbursed the $2,000,” she said, “and we've seen that this does create a barrier for participation.”
Callan presented a proposed policy change this week that would increase the city’s match from 50% to 100%, while keeping the cap at $2,000 per year per employee. The increase, she added, would cost the city less than
July 2 - July 9
$5,000 more annually.
However, at the suggestion of Ocean City resident (and council candidate) Billy Apostolou, the council voted 6-0, with Councilwoman Carol Proctor absent, to expand the tuition benefit even further, funding 100% of the first $3,000 an employee spends annually on educational courses. For her part, Callan said she supported the move. Staff said employees who take advantage of the program must meet certain requirements, which include completing the course with a grade of C or higher and remaining with the city for at least a year.
Fri-Mon 11am-4pm Heron Harbour, 120th St., Bayside, Ocean City 1BR/2BR/3BR/4BR+ Condos, Towns & SF - Nanette Pavier/Holiday Real Estate
Mon-Fri, 9am-4pm 12430 Old Bridge Rd., West OC 2BR/2BA Single Family from $284,750 Shelly Wilson/Salt Life Community
Friday 10am-Noon 11400 Coastal Hwy #7A, Ocean City 3BR/2BA
Condo $799,000 Sharon Daugherty/Keller Williams Realty
Sunday 12:30-1:45pm 5801 Atlantic Ave #608, Ocean City 1BR/1.5BA
Sunday 2-3:45pm 5801 Atlantic Ave #108, Ocean City 1BR/1.5 BA
Sunday 2-4pm 6 137th St #303, Ocean City 3BR/2BA
Monday 11:30am-1:30pm 12971 Inlet Isle Lane, Ocean City 5BR/5BA
Monday 12:30-2:30pm 9823 Golf Course Rd #23, Ocean City 3BR/3.5BA
Monday 2-4pm 75 King Richard Road, Ocean Pines 4BR/3.5BA
Family $1,150,950 Sally Todd Stout/BHHS PenFed Realty
Family $439,900 Terri Bradford/Hileman Real Estate
Shawn Kotwica/Coldwell Banker Realty
Family $920,000 Sharon Daugherty/Keller Williams Realty
Sharon Daugherty/Keller Williams Realty
$1,190,000 Terri Moran/Coldwell Banker Realty
$609,000 Katie Landon/Coldwell Banker Realty
Shelly Wilson/Salt Life Community
Shawn Kotwica/Coldwell Banker Realty
$949,000 Sharon Daugherty/Keller Williams Realty
Bryan Baylis/Coldwell Banker Realty
$424,000 Rob & Anne-Marie Bouse/RE/MAX Advantage Realty
Elaine Davidson/RE/MAX Advantage Realty
Lauren Bunting/Keller Williams Realty
Terri Moran/Coldwell Banker Realty
Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker
Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker
Sharon Daugherty/Keller Williams Realty
Sharon Daugherty/Keller Williams Realty
OC denies KYMA sidewalk closure
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(July 3, 2026) Ocean City officials have directed a construction company to develop a new plan after it asked to close pedestrian access and street parking near the site of the KYMA hotel development downtown.
While the request was supported during a June meeting of the Ocean City Police Commission, Mayor Rick Meehan and fellow committee members made it clear during a work session Tuesday they were seeking the City Council’s input on a plan to close a portion of sidewalk at 700 S. Philadelphia Avenue and reroute pedestrian traffic around the block.
After discussions with the construction company’s representatives, the council this week directed them to find an alternative solution.
“The way it’s set up now, I think we will end up with a more dangerous situation for pedestrians, and there’s a lot of J-1s down there that will end up in the road on scooters and things like that …,” Councilman Jake Mitrecic said of the request. “I don’t see where closing the sidewalk makes any of that any better.”
As presented at the June 8 commission meeting, those connected to the project are seeking a planned sidewalk and street parking closure from
the south side of South Division Street to the north side of South 1st Street in order for construction to proceed on a 83-unit hotel along the bayside.
Officials report the State Highway Administration – which gave its own approval – would provide concrete jersey barriers to separate the parking lane from the slow lane of travel, and that both bike and pedestrian traffic would be redirected to Baltimore Avenue to access the fishing pier.
Officials say the construction, and planned closures, would last roughly two years. However, during the public comment portion of Tuesday’s work session, Ocean City resident George Stoll came before the City Council with concerns over the request, which he said would affect residents and visitors who traverse the sidewalk on a daily basis.
“To close it for two years, it’s a bridge too far,” he said. “It’s crazy. It’s absolutely unheard of and unnecessary, given the fact they only need to get their vehicles in and out of that job site eight hours a day.”
For his part, Meehan said the police commission also serves as the city’s traffic commission, and had the authority to make decisions on road closures in town. He noted that commission members had their own questions about the request, and had
made it clear that they would want the council’s input.
“We did make a vote to go ahead and close it but it was very explicitly stated … that although the authority lies with the police commission, we thought it would be necessary to have this discussion at the council level afterwards, just to make sure, because it is of great public interest,” he explained.
City Manager Terry McGean said the request was also made as part of a construction staging policy. Under those guidelines, sidewalk closures are prohibited during the summer season, unless the construction company can get approval from the police commission, and ultimately the mayor and City Council.
“The reasoning for closing a sidewalk or providing overhead protection on the sidewalk is typically when you have a high-rise building of this nature, and they are building somewhat close to the sidewalk, it becomes a safety issue …,” he explained. “I think the consensus was, in the interest of keeping the project moving, I think it’s in everyone’s best interest for construction to proceed as quickly as possible instead of as slowly as possible.”
McGean added that the closure was not permanent and would end once
See DEVELOPER Page 102
REAL ESTATE MARKETPLACE
Developer tasked to find sidewalk solution
construction is completed. However, Meehan asked why the sidewalk could not be opened once construction work ended each evening.
“Is there any reason why the sidewalk needs to be closed 24 hours a day?” he asked.
For his part, Ocean City Planning and Community Development Director George Bendler said the construction company had sought a sidewalk closure, rather than an overhead protection area, as it would create sight-
line issues for trucks entering and exiting the project site. He said the plan before city officials was also the plan brought before the State Highway Administration.
“It was better to close that small area,” he said.
A representative for the construction company leading the hotel construction said that the area would also be congested as trucks could only enter the site from one access point along South Philadelphia Avenue. However, he agreed to work with the city to allow some sidewalk access after business hours.
“It won’t be busy 24 hours a day,” he said. “That’s something we can look into.”
Ultimately, council members asked company representatives to mitigate
some of the concerns regarding pedestrian access, with Council President Matt James adding he had received several emails on the issue. Council members also argued that pedestrians and bicyclists would not adhere to the detours being proposed.
“People are not going to walk a third of a mile to go 50 yards,” Councilman John Gehrig said. “They’re just going to walk down the street. So, we have to mitigate that somehow.”
Bendler said officials would work with State Highway and the city’s public works department to come up with another plan. Council members encouraged construction company representatives to come back next week.
“I don’t know if it’s our job to figure it out, but I don’t like this plan,” Gehrig said.
OC staff to review bids as taxiway projects continue
Council opens proposals for airport, golf course work
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(July 3, 2026) Ocean City government staff will review the two, multimillion-dollar bids the city received this week for a taxiway project at the municipal airport.
With the first phase wrapping up, city officials are looking to proceed with the next round of taxiway improvements at the Ocean City Municipal Airport. And during Tuesday’s work session, the council opened two bids for a project that will focus on rehabilitating, expanding and reconfiguring the airport’s terminal apron.
Last fall, the city kicked off a project to relocate Taxiway A, which serves as 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 project, which continued throughout the winter and spring and into the early part of the summer season. The next phase, officials say, will allow aircraft to park outside of the taxi lane object-free areas, a regulation set by the FAA.
On Tuesday, the council accepted the phase-two bids, which included a $10.3 million proposal from David A. Bramble and a $10.5 million proposal from Allan Myers. Staff said the construction costs were estimated at $8.8 million, which would 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 council on Tuesday also opened five bids for a plant mitigation project at the municipally owned Eagles Landing Golf Course. The submissions ranged from $114,241 to $132,000.
According to bid documents, the successful bidder will be responsible for installing plants that are required by the Maryland Critical Areas Commission as remediation for the trees and ancillary buffer impacts caused by a tidal remediation project at the golf course.
Recreation and Parks Director Kate Gaddis said her department has budgeted $250,000, which will not only cover plant mitigation, but bridge work and change orders.
“We know the [bridge] work will be done in house,” she said, adding that a cost estimate has not yet been provided.
Legislation to have impact on commercial real estate
General Assembly adopts bills aimed at property tax, disclosure, abatement, etc.
By Lauren Bunting
Contributing Writer
(July 3, 2026) This is the last week of legislative recap articles covering legislation that passed during the 2026 449th Maryland General Assembly session, which convened on January 14 and adjourned on April 13.
This week’s summary covers “Commercial and Affiliated Industries” related legislation that passed as provided by the Maryland REALTORS® recap of all of the pertinent legislation affecting the real estate industry.
COMMERCIAL AND AFFILIATED INDUSTRIES
HB 850 Home Builders — Open House - Sales Representative Disclosure Requirements – Effective October 1, 2026
Home builders must clearly and conspicuously display a notice at properties held open for prospective buyers that the sales representative represents the builder, not the buyer, and that the buyer may obtain their own representation.
SB 767 Property Tax — Credit for Commercial Buildings Rented to Small Businesses — Effective June 1, 2026
Authorizes county and municipal governments to grant a property tax
credit for a commercial building that is rented, or rented to own, to a small business located in an arts and entertainment district, a Main Street Maryland designated community, a Baltimore City designated main street; or any other business improvement district designated by a local government.
HB 252 Lead Paint Abatement Services – Performance Bond and Liability Insurance – Effective July 1, 2026
Lead abatement professionals can be required to carry a performance bond or liability insurance, as determined by MDE.
This coverage will cover property owners if negligence from a covered professional causes harm, including costs like medical care, relocation, cleanup, remediation, and legal expenses.
SB 939 Bankruptcy ProceedingsExemptions from Execution - Residential Real Property – Effective June 1, 2026
Expands the exemption of owneroccupied real property to specifically include residential real property of a settlor that is held in a revocable trust.
The bill also increases the maximum amount of the exemption to $125,000 for an individual, to be adjusted each fiscal year based on changes in the Consumer Price Index. The bill applies to any bankruptcy proceeding filed on or after the effective date.
— Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record with Keller Williams Realty of Delmarva in Ocean City, MD.
Worcester County releases annual water quality reports
Evaluation shows data from service areas meets state, federal safety standards
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(July 3, 2026) For residents turning on the tap in Ocean Pines, Briddletown, Mystic Harbour and other public water service areas, Worcester County’s latest annual water quality reports offer the same basic assurance: drinking water met state and federal standards last year.
Released June 24, new reports cover Briddletown; Edgewater Acres and Nantucket Point; Mystic Harbour, the Landings and Assateague Point; Ocean Pines; Newark; and Riddle Farm. No violations were listed.
County water quality reports over the last decade focused largely on standard testing results, including nitrate, copper, chlorine and disinfection byproducts. Newer state and federal reporting requirements now demand a closer look at what is being tested, tracked and disclosed.
Reports now track more data points than they used to, including what materials water pipes are made from, and whether any PFAS – socalled “forever chemicals” – were detected.
PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a family of human-made chemicals used for decades in products like nonstick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, and firefighting foam.
They’re nicknamed forever chemicals because they break down slowly in the environment and can remain in the human body for years, which is a key reason PFAS have drawn atten-
tion from public health researchers and drinking water regulators.
Information about PFAS began appearing in the county’s annual water quality reports in 2023, after state monitoring launched in 2020. In the 2026 reports, PFAS detections in parts per trillion appeared in Briddletown, Ocean Pines, and Riddle Farm, with no violations listed.
Lead service lines are another addition to the county’s water quality reports.
Since last year, public water systems have been required to list what materials their service lines are made of, including whether any contain lead.
Worcester County’s 2026 reports state the required lists were submitted to the Maryland Department of the Environment and are available upon request. The documents do not list how many lead service lines were found, if any.
Separate testing for lead and copper in tap water also fell below regulatory thresholds that would trigger additional steps if samples tested too high, reports show.
Other water-quality measurements also remained within limits. Nitrate, which can come from fertilizer runoff, septic systems, and natural deposits, was detected in Briddletown, Ocean Pines, and Riddle Farm, but was reported below the federal standard in each system.
Chlorine and disinfection byproducts also were listed below legal limits. Copper testing, where listed, came in below regulatory action levels.
Edgewater Acres and Nantucket Point showed higher levels of disinfection byproducts than some other county systems, though still below legal limits. Those byproducts can form when chlorine or other disinfectants used to kill germs react with naturally occurring material in water.
The water quality reports can be viewed at https://www.worcestermd.gov/departments/publicworks/water/quality.
Taylor House to host Tindley Day celebration
Audio-visual materials of Rev. Charles Tindley will be projected on museum lawn
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(July 2, 2026) The lawn of the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum will be the site of sermons, exhibits, and music next week in recognition of the inaugural Rev. Charles Albert Tindley Day, a newly proclaimed celebration to honor the Berlin-born gospel music composer.
The Berlin mayor and council meeting last week declared July 7 “Rev. Tindley Day” in Berlin, in recognition of his life and influence. Tindley was born in the area on July 7, 1851, and despite limited opportunities, became a noted African American gospel music pioneer, preacher, and civil rights activist.
Tindley was the son of an enslaved father and a free mother. Through self-education and unwavering faith, he is known today as an influential preacher, hymnwriter, and community leader.
Sometimes to referred to as the “Prince of Preachers,” he founded one of the largest Methodist congregations serving the African American community on the East Coast —Tindley Temple United Methodist Church in Philadelphia.
Tindley died in 1933 having established a musical legacy that continues to this day. Among his compositions was “I’ll Overcome Someday,” which later served as the foundation for the civil rights anthem, “We Shall Overcome.”
Another of his songs, “Stand By Me,” later became associated with the famous recording by Ben E. King. Five of Tindley’s hymns continue to appear in Methodist hymnals used around the world.
Next Tuesday, the Taylor House will celebrate the first “Rev. Tindley Day” with exhibits and audio-visual material on the facility’s lawn. The event will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and will be hosted in collaboration with the Germantown School and the nonprofit, Beach to Bay Heritage Area.
According to Taylor House Executive Director Melissa Reid, the Germantown School is loaning the museum its pop-up exhibit on the locally born reverend. The exhibit will be stationed in the downstairs heritage room for the whole week.
The Taylor House’s permanent Tindley exhibit will also be available for viewing.
Reid said the museum’s Tindley collection was created in partnership with local black historian Clara Small and Arnold Downing, Berlin’s retired police chief. The exhibition features audio-visual materials including Tindley’s famous sermons and videos
of the Tindley Family Choir, a chorus of the reverend’s descendants, performing in front of downtown Berlin’s Tindley mural.
These archived recordings will be projected onto a screen on the museum’s lawn during Tuesday’s event.
“Our goal is to use that audio-visual material and actually have it projected onto a screen on the lawn like we do our movies,” Reid said.
Reid added that while normally closed on Tuesdays, the museum will be open to welcome residents and visitors to the two Tindley collections.
The Seaside Sweets truck will also be onsite with Chesapeake Bay Farms ice cream.
The Taylor House director said the goal of the event is to teach individuals from Berlin and the surrounding areas about Tindley, who she maintained is sometimes underappreci-
ated by the community.
Reid noted that Stephen Decatur, a naval officer born in Worcester County to a father who served during the Revolutionary War, is recognized more than Tindley, despite having loose ties to the Eastern Shore.
“Everything around us is named after Stephen Decatur,” she said. “And Decatur was only born here. He just happened to be here because his father was here during the Revolutionary War helping on the Eastern Shore. He was not part of our community. He was born here and moved on.”
Reid added that despite Tindley’s relocation to Philadelphia, he remained committed to aiding Berlin's African American congregations.
“Rev. Tindley did move on but came back frequently to Berlin and helped support places like [St. Paul United Methodist Church] and
helped the local community here,” Reid said. “To me, Rev. Tindley exemplifies the ultimate American story of pulling yourself up…he taught himself to read, put himself through night school and became a beloved humanitarian both in Philadelphia and Berlin. He to me exemplifies everything we would want community members to be.”
The museum hopes to build on Tindley. Reid said that the facility’s mission is to add local gospel singing and continue strengthening the relationships between the Germantown School, the Taylor House, and the area’s churches.
“[Tindley’s] story is really crucial to the history of Berlin,” Reid said.
The creation of Tindley Day by the town grew out of a suggestion by local historian Greg Purnell and was facilitated by Beach to Bay Heritage Area.
Snow Hill creating riverfront porch
Bank Street will be turned into a community space, demo work to start by Dec.
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(July 3, 2026) Snow Hill is advancing its signature revitalization project, a plan to turn Bank Street into a community front porch overlooking the Pocomoke River.
The town plans to begin demolition work by early December, after securing property permissions and reorganizing the project around full funding, according to Economic Development Manager Jen Divis.
Officials have said Bank Street today functions more like a parking
lot, deterring pedestrians from using the corridor as an inviting link through the town center. For that reason, the design favors walkability.
Plans call for a curving corridor lined with plants and trees, movable bollards to block off pedestrian space, and upgraded stormwater features along the nearly three-block stretch. The design will see the entire street covered in pavers and punctuated by benches to evoke the feel of a European streetscape.
Adding to the green space, plans also include rain gardens and a submerged wetland in lieu of a stormwater management pond. The town is working closely with the Snow Hillbased Lower Shore Land Trust on
that component.
The idea grew out of the COVID-19 pandemic, when portions of Bank Street were blocked off so people could gather safely outdoors.
“We decided, we want to keep some element of this permanent – a public space that’s nice, where we can come and gather and meet each other outside,” she said. “It really grew from there.”
Town officials reached a milestone last October when the mayor and council approved the final design. The town has also secured permission from five private property owners for needed easements.
Worcester County helped move the project along when the county
BLACK MARLIN SHOWCASED
Franny Purnell gathered a group of friends and neighbors on Tuesday that have helped her this past year in getting her late husband George Purnell’s 1,239-pound black marlin refurbished then moved and hung in the Ocean City Marlin Club. A world class fisherman, Purnell was a member of the club since he joined at the age of 17. Pictured, back from left, are Brad Watkins, Franny Purnell, Charles and Mechelle Nichols, Nina and Mark Wheeler, Jeffrey and Erika Phillips and Terri and David “Coconut” Hedges; middle, Debbie Priestley and KC and Sherry Harrington; and front, Janet and Sean Coughlin and Jerry Priestley.
SUBMITTED
OBITUARIES
JAMES E. WELSCH
Bishopville
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of James E. Welsch, of Bishopville, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and dedicated educator, who departed this life on June 23, 2026, at the age of 83. He was born on August 2, 1942, in Baltimore to the late John Welsch and Dorothy (Sommers) Welsch.
Jim was a retired athletic director for Howard County Public Schools, where he inspired countless students with his passion for sports and education. He was a proud member of the Friendship Church of Berlin, the Berlin/Ocean City Optimist Club, the Friendship Church of Berlin Men's Group, and a Bible Study group, reflecting his dedication to community service and his faith.
James is survived by his wife, Anita R. Welsch; daughter, Jo Ann Huber (Phil); son, Jimmy Welsch (Elaine); grandchildren, Riley, Sarah, Drew, and Kaitlyn. Together, they will carry his legacy of kindness, strength, and leadership forward.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by a sister, Marilyn Beachley.
A funeral service was held at the Friendship Church of Berlin. Entombment was at Granite Memorial Mausoleum on Worcester Highway in Bishopville.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN. 38105. Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com.
KENDRA L. PAULMAN
Ocean City
Snow Hill makes improvements
Continued from Page 105
commissioners donated 9,000 square feet of land on each side of Bank Street – more than 6,000 square feet near the library and more than 2,000 square feet along an annex building.
Shaping the promenade will require excavation of Bank Street itself. Divis said this gives the town a chance to replace aging water and sewer lines while also moving electric and cable lines underground.
among several other recent improvements in Snow Hill, including a new mural on Pearl Street and two other murals underway on Washington Street. New playscape elements and a community garden were also just installed at Sturgis Park.
Divis credited the nonprofit Downtown Snow Hill and Mayor Janet Simpson, among other community stakeholders, for keeping the project on track as it gathered steam in the last year.
Kendra “Kenny” L. Paulman, 79, passed away on June 21, 2026, at TidalHealth Peninsula Regional. Born on March 26, 1947, in Baltimore, Maryland, she was the daughter of the late George Albert Paulman, Sr. and Alice Ann Unitas Paulman.
Kendra is survived by her longtime love, Jack McGrath; her brother, Mickey Paulman; her sisters, Pat Hill, Chris Schmitt, Mikey McGee, Franny Bass, Marty Hernandez, and Bernadette Tregoe; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Kendra was preceded in death by her sister, Jackie Paulman, and her brother,
Continued on Page 108
The project, one of the town’s largest public works efforts in years, is estimated to cost $776,000, much of it covered by grant funding.
The project will be a showpiece
“They’re people who live and work downtown, and they’ve been invested in bringing positive changes to town. They’ve really been the driving force behind this,” she said.
Kendra Paulman
James Welsch
Continued from Page 107
Jody Paulman.
Kendra grew up in Baltimore before beginning her career at Westinghouse. She later became a small business owner before finding her true calling with the Town of Ocean City's Office of Tourism, where she dedicated 18 years of service before retiring at the age of 74.
She found great joy in spending time on the water, especially fishing alongside her sister, Pat, and the "Poor Girls" team during the annual Poor Girls Open Fishing Tournament in Ocean City. More than anything, she treasured time spent with her family and friends. She had a loving heart and a bubbly personality that naturally drew people to her. Funloving, hardworking, and fiercely independent, Kendra never met a gathering she couldn't make more enjoyable.
Her greatest joy was welcoming family and friends around a table overflowing with delicious food, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come. She will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, integrity, and genuine concern for others. To those who knew and loved her, Kendra will always be remembered as the life of the party, whose warmth and laughter made every occasion brighter.
A memorial service was held at Holloway Funeral Home, Salisbury. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association, PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692.
Arrangements are in the care of Holloway Funeral Home, P.A., 501 Snow Hill Road, Salisbury, Maryland 21804. To send condolences to the family, please visit hollowayfh.com.
GABRIEL P. LITTEN
Newark
Gabriel “Gabe” Preston Litten, of Newark, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Thursday, June 25 at the age of 55.
Born on February 16, 1971, Gabe was known for his strong work ethic, his devotion to family, and his deep love for his grandchildren, who were truly the light of his life.
Gabe is survived by his wife of nearly 27 years, Theresa “Tina” Litten. His children: Rebecca Repsher and her husband Charlie of Berlin, Jenna Goodspeed and her husband Cody of Berlin, Nina Dryden of Crisfield, and Jared Litten and his wife Kyndall of Pocomoke. Gabe’s beloved grandchildren include Brayten Bradley, Brody Bradley, Dominic Kulp, Jaylynn Goodspeed, Brinlee Bradley, Lucas Goodspeed, Arianna Goodspeed, Elianna Goodspeed, Charlotte Repsher, Chase Repsher, and Maverick Litten. Gabe had a deep
love for his dogs, who were constant companions to him and brought him comfort, loyalty, and joy.
He is also survived by his mother, Linda Litten, and his father, George Michael “Mike” Litten, as well as his siblings: Charity Merryman, Daniel Litten, George Litten, Sarah Litten, and Rebecca Thompson.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Margaret and George Litten, and Violet and Omar Turner.
Gabe graduated from Crisfield High School, class of 1989. Gabe worked for Steamfitter Local 602/M&M Welding & Fabricators Inc., in Gaithersburg, Maryland, as a skilled steamfitter for fifteen years before becoming disabled in 2006. Following that transition, he continued to work with his hands and stayed active by starting a small landscaping business, which reflected his determination, work ethic, strength, and resilience.
Gabe will be remembered for his love of family, his hardworking nature, and the lasting memories he created with those closest to him. His presence will be deeply missed and forever cherished.
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, July 5 at Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin. Visitation will take place from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., and service will immediately follow.
Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home.
GEORGE Z. BASLE
Ocean City
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of George Z. Basle of Ocean City, who departed this life on June 22, 2026. Born on May 1, 1955, in Silver Spring, Maryland, he was the son of the late George and Mary (Kappenaros) Basle.
George began his career working in his family’s restaurant businesses before building a successful career in the automobile industry. In 2003, he made Ocean City his home, where he co-owned H2O Under 21 Club and later co-founded Taxi Taxi. He retired in 2020 and enjoyed splitting his time between Ocean City, Maryland, and Delray Beach, Florida, with his beloved dog, Itsy, and his longtime companion, Kim Wilson.
George loved being on the water, riding his bicycle on the Boardwalk, and spending summer afternoons at the Harbor Island pool—his favorite “office”—with friends and neighbors.
George is survived by his son, Nicholas Basle of Boynton Beach, Florida. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Dean Basle.
A Celebration of Life will be an-
nounced in the coming weeks.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Ocean City Police Mounted Unit, 6501 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, MD 21842, or the Worcester County Humane Society, 12330 Eagles Nest Rd., Berlin, MD 21811.
GERASIMOS CANAKIS
Selbyville
Gerasimos Canakis, 93, passed away peacefully in his sleep on June 25, 2026, in Selbyville, Delaware.
Born on August 2, 1932, in Kefalonia, Greece, Gerasimos immigrated to the United States with his family as a young boy in the mid-1940s.
Like so many immigrants of his generation, he embraced the opportunities of his new country through hard work, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to family.
At the age of 18, Gerasimos proudly enlisted in the United States Navy and honorably served during the Korean War aboard the USS Valley Forge. His military service remained a source of pride throughout his life and reflected the deep sense of duty and gratitude he felt toward the country that became his home.
During those years, Gerasimos met the love of his life, Antoinette, at her Sweet Sixteen birthday celebration in Newport News, Virginia. They were married in 1956 and shared nearly 70 years of marriage, building a life together centered on faith, family, hard work, and devotion to one another.
Together they built their home in Philadelphia, where Gerasimos worked alongside his parents and brothers in the family restaurant business. He believed in the dignity of honest work and led by quiet example. The family restaurant was more than a place to earn a living. It was a place where those in need could always find a warm meal. Gerasimos and Antoinette quietly helped those less fortunate, never seeking recognition. Helping others was simply part of who they were.
Gerasimos and Antoinette were blessed with three children: Jerrold, Peter, and Katherine. He believed education was one of life's greatest gifts and encouraged his children to work hard, pursue their dreams, and never stop learning. Having come to the United States as a young immigrant, he developed a deep love for this country and never took for granted the freedom and opportunities it provided. He found great joy in watching future generations grow, pursue their dreams, and make the most of those opportunities. He had a lifelong love of history and a deep appreciation for art.
Those who knew Gerasimos will
remember his quiet strength, humility, unwavering work ethic, kindness, and deep devotion to his family. He never sought recognition or praise. His greatest legacy lives on in the family he loved so deeply and in the values of faith, integrity, perseverance, and compassion that he passed on to each generation.
In addition to his parents, Panagis and Diane (Hionis) Canakis, he was preceded in death by his son-in-law, Joseph Terry; his brothers, Danny Canakis and Spiros Canakis; his sister-in-law, Wanda; and his brothersin-law, Leon and Andy.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Antoinette Canakis; his children, Jerrold Canakis (Carla), Peter Canakis, and Katherine Canakis-Terry; his brothers, Nicholas Canakis and George Canakis; his sisters, Marguerite Toroian and Leah Melissaratos; his sisters-in-law, Maria, Alice, and Evangelia; his grandchildren, Andrew Canakis (Skyla), Justin Canakis (Jackie), Alexander Canakis (Carrie), Joseph Terry (Katherine), and Alyssa Terry; and his cherished great-grandchildren, Sophie Canakis, Isabella Canakis, Olivia Canakis, Joseph Terry, and Elizabeth Jean Terry.
Services were held at St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Ocean City, followed by interment at Evergreen Cemetery. Arrangements are in the care of Burbage Funeral Home, Berlin, Maryland.
. May his memory be eternal.
ENATH E. HARMAN
Ocean
City
Enath Everett Harman (affectionately known as Enie), age 75, passed away on May 25, 2026, in Salisbury. Born in Wilmington, Delaware on March 31, 1951, she was the daughter of the late Edward Everett and Ara J. (Outten) Everett.
Enie spent many years of her early career in the local banking industry. However, she devoted most of her life to working as the manager for the Ocean Mecca Motel, where over the years guests and coworkers became like family.
Enie loved being around the water and the wildlife, especially herons, egrets, and graceful shore birds. She found great pleasure in shopping (especially looking for great bargains), gardening, and long walks. She took joy in being with family and friends preparing meals, and decorating her home. She will be deeply missed and remembered for her loving, endearing, and vivacious ways.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her siblings Verna Peggy Gemignani and Edward Dawson Everett.
Enath is survived by her beloved
Gabriel Litten
Gerasimos Canakis
George Basle
Enath Harman
husband – Mitchell Stacy Harman; her children Zachary Valcourt Harman and Arabeth Lea Turner (Christopher); her sister – Ara Marie Havens (Dennis); and her grandchild – Aubrey Summer Turner.
Cremation followed her passing. No formal services are planned at this time. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home – Berlin.
JOHN ANTHONY GATEAU, JR.
Leonardtown
John Anthony Gateau, Jr, age 87, of Leonardtown, Maryland, died peacefully on June 7, 2026 at MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital.
Preceded in death by his wife, Mary Gateau, survived by daughters, Linda Weese (Matt), Brenda Dalsey (Jerry) and Grandchildren- Katie Dalsey (Mike), Gerard Dalsey, and Maura LaVoie (David). Born May 24, 1939 in Washington, D.C.
The son of the late John Gateau, Sr and Winifred Gateau of Hollywood, Maryland. John, the oldest of six children, survived by siblings Angel Judd, Patricia Muchow, Sandra Reece. Preceded in death by his brothers George Gateau and Robert Gateau. John’s career encompassed Facilities Management and Real Estate that took him far and wide from Washington DC to Maryland, Delaware. He loved his family, enjoying good crabs and a beer, the ocean, and nice cars.
Services will be private.
ANITA C. ROBERTS
Ocean Pines
Anita Claire Roberts, age 74, passed away on June 12, 2026, in Baltimore, Maryland. Born in Perth Amboy, New Jersey on September 7, 1951, she was the daughter of the late Joe Miller and Claire (Mensinger) Miller. Anita grew up in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, and never lost her love for the place she called home. She cherished memories of summers at the Jersey Shore with her family and remained closely connected to a special group of lifelong friends affectionately known as her “Jersey Girls.”
She attended Salisbury State College, graduating in 1974 with a degree in education, where she met Russ, the love of her life and husband of 51 years. Anita went on to dedicate 31 years to teaching in Anne Arundel County. She cared deeply about her students and took great pride in a career spent helping young people learn and grow.
After retiring from teaching, Russ and Anita relocated to Ocean Pines,
Maryland, where they built a wonderful community of friends filled with laughter, fun and lasting memories. Anita loved the beach, gardening, flowers and special lunches at the inlet in Ocean City, where she and Russ enjoyed watching the tide roll away.
Above all, Anita adored her family—her husband, Russ; her only son, Chad; and her grandsons, Carter and Landon. Anyone who knew Anita knew how fiercely she loved "her boys." She was incredibly proud of Chad and the life he built — his career, his family and his home.
She cherished every opportunity to be part of Carter and Landon's lives, whether attending concerts and sporting events, taking trips to the zoo, the beach and museums, or baking pies together. Her love for her grandsons was boundless, and they
brought her immeasurable joy.
She was a devoted member of P.E.O., Chapter AK, a sisterhood committed to celebrating, supporting and motivating women. She was a member of P.E.O. for 41 years. She was proud of her work with the organization and of the meaningful friendships she built there.
She was also a member of the Ocean Pines Garden Club and created a book club for friends in Ocean Pines. Anita treasured her many friendships and especially enjoyed Friday walks, bagels and time with her beloved “OP Posse.”
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother Joseph Paul Miller.
She is survived by her beloved husband – George Roberts; her son –Chad Roberts (Jessica); her grandchildren – Carter and Landon
Roberts and her adored labrador retriever, Creek.
Cremation followed her passing. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin, Maryland. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m., with a Celebration of Life immediately afterward at Lighthouse Sound Restaurant in Bishopville, Maryland.
In honor of Anita's vibrant spirit and love of life, the family invites guests to wear bright colors or cheerful patterns. Beach or resort casual attire is warmly welcomed in place of traditional funeral attire.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to P.E.O. Chapter AK, c/o Barbara Ferger, Treasurer, 5 Oxford Court, Ocean Pines, MD 21811.
Continued on Page 115
John Gateau, Jr.
Anita Roberts
Opinions
Govt. vs. freedom requires balancing
Even though the Declaration of Independence was presented to the Continental Congress 250 years ago, Americans still argue over its most fundamental question: how much power should a central government hold over the states and the people?
After the 13 colonies broke free from British rule, they operated as a loose federation. Each individual colony made its own rules, printed its own money, and conducted trade as it saw fit. However, the new states quickly realized they could not survive alone and needed something more to handle selfdefense, foreign relations, and interstate commerce.
The irony is that they—and we—tend to resist what they created. Our view of independence is that we all want total freedom until we need support. For example, the federal government stepped in five years ago to save local businesses through the multi-billion-dollar Paycheck Protection Program.
Similarly, citizens rely on FEMA for disaster assistance and Medicare for vital healthcare insurance—a program that supports more than 65 million Americans. The federal government even stabilizes our food supply — between 1995 and 2024, for instance, Worcester County farmers received $57 million in subsidies to protect them from wild crop price fluctuations.
Demanding less government intervention is almost instinctive, but it is often simplistic and hypocritical given how frequently we look to federal agencies in difficult times.
The fact is, between 1776 and the arrival of the U.S. Constitution in 1787, the founders built a complicated, imperfect system. Its purpose was to hold a fragile nation together by striking a delicate balance between tyranny and anarchy.
On this July 4, we should remember that our job, like that of every generation before us, is to maintain that wobbly balance. As Benjamin Franklin famously warned in 1787 when asked if the convention delegates had created a republic or a monarchy: "A republic ... if you can keep it."
PUBLIC EYE
A good day, I swear
My father, who had an IQ higher than some zip codes, never cursed. He said swearing was the product of a weak vocabulary and was both unimaginative and unintelligent. I am not my father.
NEWS
EDITOR STEWART DOBSON; EXECUTIVE EDITOR STEVE GREEN
OC Today-Dispatch is published Fridays by FLAG Publications, Inc. 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 410-723-6397 All content copyright 2026
By Stewart Dobson
If you count swear words, including foreign language translations of some of my English favorites, I have a good vocabulary, which I’m inclined to use more frequently that I should.
For some reason I have never understood, there are times when it just feels right to say, “Excuse me, Mr. Source of Annoyance, but as regards to you and the horse you rode in on...”
I have tried to do better, but there are times when I need what people in the radio business call a “dump button.” It gives the person running the controls seven seconds to bleep out bad words before they get on the air. It would have saved me a lot of trouble.
The thing is I didn’t swear as a kid and did not involve myself in the late pre-teen male pastime of looking up how to say a particular word in Spanish or German or Italian.
I wasn’t interested and a 12-year-old buddy’s pronunciation of a foreign word would invariably fall short, which could lead to great embarrassment years later, should you forget the Spanish “J” is pronounced as an “H.”
Anyway, I remember the very day that I began cursing in the course of casual conversation. My parents and my younger brother
had picked me up from boot camp and we were heading home, with my brother and me in the back seat.
I don’t know what the question was, but I do know my answer incorporated certain descriptive terms that included a possible reference to how humans make other humans. I think we’ve all heard those, “Please pass the ... butter,” stories.
All I can say is that I had never before or since seen my brother squeeze himself into a ball so small that he actually rolled around on the car floor between the drive shaft hump and the car seats. The only distinguishable feature on him was a grin that wrapped around to the back of his head as he struggled not to laugh at my great misfortune.
In the meantime, my parents turned to stone. Suddenly, my father had been replaced in the driver’s seat by an Easter Island statue. Luckily, we were driving on a straightaway because I’m sure my father was not capable of any movement whatsoever.
Almost simultaneously, my mother vanished into the front seat upholstery, leaving me alone with my brother on the floor losing air and bouncing around like a maniacal volleyball.
The only sound was me panic-jabbering while praying, “Lord, just give me some words to say that aren’t bad. I don’t care what order they’re in or what they mean, I just need a lot of them right now.”
Obviously, I’ve gotten better about swearing as the years have passed, and I have tried to employ a mental dump button with varying degrees of success. There are times, though, when the difference between a good day and a great day is saying, “I’d like to suggest that you and the horse you rode in on ...”
Between the Lines
By Steve Green
The summer of beach enforcement continues in Ocean City and the latest update shows there’s a lot of educating being done. The city’s new beach enforcement division provided an update this week including data tracked about interactions with folks on the beach.
Between June 8 and June 21 enforcement officers have tagged 290 unoccupied canopies with 180 personal contacts with owners. Additionally, during the same two-week period, there were 569 individuals communicated with about the canopy ordinance and 333 “other” ordinances enforced. A surprise to me was the fact there were 130 dogs reported to be in violation of the city’s policy of no dogs on the beach and Boardwalk from May 1 through September. These numbers will be tracked throughout the season and most likely will continue to climb as the peak season gets underway this weekend.
Most interesting of all is the mayor’s office has not been receiving complaints about the enforcement actions. Mayor Rick Meehan was the one who brought the oversized canopy issues and the potential safety hazards they create to the forefront at City Hall two years ago. He said he had been fielding concerns from visitors and locals. This week, he said, “I have received compliments,” about the city’s approach.
On the state level, former Gov. Larry Hogan made some waves this week when he once again showed concern with the Republican party’s nominee, Dan Cox, for the governor’s race in November against incumbent Wes Moore. On a Sunday morning interview with Fox 5, Hogan expressed concern about Maryland Republicans “nominating unelectable people in the primaries,” referring to Cox being chosen after being crushed in the 2022 gubernatorial election by Moore. Hogan stopped short of not endorsing Cox as he did in 2022, saying, “I’m going to have to make a tough decision about what I do in November.”
Hogan’s sentiments are understandable. In Maryland’s recent history, the elected Republican governors, like Hogan and before him Bob Ehrlich, demonstrated an ability to be moderate, consensus builders. Hogan and Ehrlich were able to swing enough independents and Democrats to vote for them from the dense metropolitan areas. Hogan seems to be indicating Cox is too extreme to the right to accomplish what he did in two elections. Sure, Cox will likely carry the Republican-heavy Eastern Shore and other rural counties, but he must secure support from the voter-dense areas like Baltimore, Montgomery, Anne Arundel and Prince George’s counties and Baltimore City to be successful. Hogan seems to be indicating he doesn’t think Cox is capable of winning.
A story on Hogan’s comments appeared in The Baltimore Sun, provoking a response from candidate Cox on his socials. Cox said, “Governor Hogan did not say he was not supporting our GOP ticket - he only said he had not decided whether to endorse, and I respect that. He further never said that ‘gubernatorial nominees were unelectable’ - though he did comment about general concerns which one may take to include a reference beyond Maryland. Make no mistake, the Maryland GOP is united in purpose to defeat the worst governor in Maryland history, Wes Moore…”
An unnecessary saga surrounding a rezoning request from Blackwater Relics in Snow Hill has come to an end with a favorable outcome for all.
Back in 2023, going against the planning commission’s unanimous recommendation, the County Commissioners voted 4-2 against rezoning the property from ag to commercial with Commissioners Chip Bertino, Jim Bunting, Caryn Abbott and Eric Fiori denying the change. It was an odd decision at the time made even stranger by the lack of explanation given to the property owner and the public.
The decision was appealed to the Worcester County Circuit Court, which took the commissioners to task for how they denied the rezoning. The commissioners’ vote lacked, “public discussion, debate, fact finding or analysis prior to the issuance” of their rejection, Worcester County Circuit Court Judge Brian Shockley opined. The decision was appealed to the state’s appeals court, which agreed and remanded the matter back to the commissioners for another look.
After being presented again last month, the commissioners voted 5-2 – with Commissioners Chip Bertino and Jim Bunting opposed, again – to approve the rezoning after considerable testimony. During the June 16 meeting, Fiori acknowledged his change of heart and how this would be a unique situation where he would vote for rezoning ag land.
It’s understandable for the county to proceed cautiously with rezoning agricultural property but this was a situation that was proven to be a mistake and the best outcome for the property owner as well as Snow Hill. It’s just a shame it took three years and multiple court opinions to get this potential economic revitalization project moving forward.
City Council should deny Kyma sidewalk request
Editor,
(The following letter was addressed to the Ocean City Mayor and Council and the planning commission, with a copy forwarded to this publication.)
It has come to my attention that it is the intent of The Town of Ocean City to grant a request by the developers of The Kyma Hotel to close the sidewalk on Philadelphia Avenue from Sunset Park to the Oceanic Fishing Pier beginning on July 6, 2026.
This closure is for a period of two years. I view this request as outrageous and ask that the mayor and Town Council not let this become a reality.
You will recall that three years ago, dozens of property owners from Assateague House, White Marlin, Emerson Towers, and Bel Mare condominiums participated in letter writings, emails, and attended meetings concerning the Kyma project.
All were in agreement that the proposed project was much too large for the parcel. You heard concerns from that public that countless variances were being granted and that said variances were to the detriment of the residents and property owners of Downtown Ocean City.
While the hastily assembled group of concerned Downtown owners can take satisfaction in stalling this mammoth of a project, the Town would still eventually cave and allow development. The rules on the books were tossed out and setbacks were granted, parking regulations were eased. Loose promises of extending the “bayside boardwalk” were talked
about. It was one concession after another that was granted to Mr. Cropper and his team.
Then, the icing on the cake was after the project was approved they would later come and demand the right to modify Sunset Park by permanently dismantling the attractive trellis. The reason for this demand was that fire apparatus would need access to the higher floors of the building and it could not be done from the street.
So, once again, yet another concession was given by the Town by allowing Sunset Park to be forever modified to accommodate this project which is clearly too large for the parcel. The two most frustrating parts of this move is that the need for access for fire apparatus was something that did not just come out of the blue. But after securing the ability to build, they would later come forward with this request to save them money. The other is that The Town caved and granted this request. It was more important for the Town to coddle the requests of the deep pocketed Developer than it was to protect the importance and beauty of Sunset Park.
During the many hearings and Town meetings on this Kyma issue dating back the last 4 years, there are a couple of key moments that stick out in my mind. I would like to refresh your memory on both.
Councilmember Buas would demonstrate sympathy with the owners of the Assateague House and other Downtown properties. He would time and time again state something that was painful to hear, but was accurate. He reminded the group that “If they wanted the view, Continued on Page 112
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Continued from Page 111
they could have bought the view”. Councilmember Buas was correct.
The lot had been for sale for many years and perhaps the Assateague House could have made a defensive play and purchased the land and done as they wished with it. Councilmember Buas reminded us all that the new owner purchased the property and because property rights are paramount to our society, he would be supporting the development of the Kyma. Fair enough.
Another important moment was during a regular Council meeting when I had objected to the disingenuous manner in which Mr. Cropper was operating at the Kyma and how the Town has continuously demonstrated an extreme willingness to accommodate just about any request made by the Developer, had ignored the many voices who were in opposition to the way too large development, and appeared to operate using a lack of transparency.
When I brought these points up, Councilmember Gehrig would lose his temper in response. Complete with using foul language from the dais, he would take issue with all the points made and doubled down on the premise that he and the Council would always listen to comments from the public.
So, now here we are, three years later. I would like to remind Councilmember Buas that while Mr. Christos Sarantis may have bought the property and has been given the green light to build on it, he did not buy the sidewalk. It is yet another disingenuous move made by Mr. Sarantis to do as he pleases with absolutely no regard for the well-being or concerns of the public. Just like the permanent destruction of the trellis at Sunset Park, when he demanded it, he is now expecting the Town to roll over once again and allow the closure of the sidewalk for two years.
I would also like to remind Councilmember Gehrig that this idea of closing the sidewalk for two years with no discussion from the public is exactly what I was trying to express to the Mayor and Council three years
ago. I would hope that he would use his power as a Councilmember to express frustration with Mr. Sarantis about why this request for a sidewalk closure is coming after ground has already been broken. Maybe a few harsh words, including more foul language can be used to ask him why the Town is first hearing about this now. Why is it that Mr. Sarantis feels like it is justifiable for the busy sidewalk to be closed for more than two years, and this issue was never raised in any of the many prior concessions which were requested and ultimately granted.
This sidewalk is in a very important part of downtown for residents, vacationers and guests. Not only is it the sidewalk but it is also the designated bike path for downtown. If the Town allows this sidewalk to be closed for more than 2 years, it is not only a travesty, but yet more evidence of the Town allowing the Developers to call the shots in Ocean City. It is beyond time that the Town start standing up for property owners and stop rolling over for the Developers. For all these reasons, I respectfully ask that you not permit the closure of the sidewalk as has been requested.
M. Scott Chismar Ocean City
Globalinx fails to meet zoning exceptions
Editor,
(The following letter was sent to the Worcester County Board of Zoning Appeals with a copy forwarded for publication.)
As the Board of Zoning Appeals reviews the Globalinx/AWS application for the Route 611 corridor, it must ignore corporate distractions and stick strictly to Maryland land-use law. The applicant bears the absolute burden of proof. Globalinx fails to meet a single one of the seven statutory review standards required for a special exception in Worcester County: 1. Harmony with Neighborhood Character: A massive, industrial data center complex is utterly incompatible with the low-density commercial
and residential makeup of our coastal corridor.
2. Detriment to Surrounding Properties: The continuous, high-frequency hum from industrial chiller units and the testing of heavy diesel backup generators will destroy the peaceful enjoyment and economic value of neighboring residential properties.
3. Environmental and Water Quality Impacts: This facility risks drawing heavily from local aquifers for cooling, threatening the fragile, highly restricted coastal ecosystems immediately adjacent to Assateague Island.
4. Overburdening of Public Services: Worcester County has already flagged severe sewer capacity limits along Route 611. This energy-hungry infrastructure threatens to exhaust remaining municipal utility capacities and strain our local electrical grid.
5. Traffic and Pedestrian Safety: The long-term operations introduce unique hazards. Aggressive, 24/7 high-intensity security lighting will cause dangerous glare and blind motorists driving at night on the narrow Route 611 highway. Furthermore, approving this initial project unlocks currently vacant acreage for rapid, compounding tech expansion — exponentially increasing heavy diesel fuel tanker traffic on a corridor heav-
ily utilized by summer tourists.
6. Public Health, Safety, and General Welfare: Forcing a global tech hub into an area entirely lacking protective digital zoning frameworks compromises the long-term planning predictability and security of the entire community.
7. Strict Compliance with Definitions: This is the fatal flaw. Worcester County’s code lacks any definition or framework for "data centers." Globalinx cannot legally claim to be a "public utility" because their network serves a private corporate matrix, not the local general public.
Globalinx's presentation relies on a magician’s trick—redirecting your attention to the low-impact landing pipe at the airport while hiding the true utility footprint of the data center. Because they cannot legally satisfy these seven mandatory criteria, the BZA is legally bound to deny this appeal.
The Assateague Maryland Coastal Community Coalition
More Worcester County citizens need to vote
Editor,
Voting is more than a right—it is a responsibility. Every election provides opportunity to shape the future of our county, state, and nation. Decisions made by elected officials af-
fect our daily lives; the best way to ensure our voices are heard is to vote!
Worcester County is a unique place. From our beaches to the farms and small towns that define our rural heritage, the county faces challenges and opportunities that require strong representation at every level of government. Decisions made in Annapolis and DC affect local schools, transportation, healthcare services, agricultural programs, and the protection of our coastal environment. If we don’t vote, we surrender our influence over those decisions.
Only 17% of Marylanders voted in this midterm primary compared to 27% in ’22. We have 33,718 registered Democrats and Republicans in our county yet only 8,288 people voted. Let’s prove that we can do far better come November.
Many feel frustrated or disconnected from politics believing their vote cannot make a difference. History proves otherwise. The last Salisbury Mayoral election had only a fifty-vote difference. Here in O C, Mayor Meehan defeated Peter Buas by fewer than 200 votes.
At the opening of the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago, former First Lady Michelle Obama reminded Americans that participation in democracy is a personal choice. She said, “Hope is a choice. Whether or not we use our voices is a choice. Vot-
ing is a choice. Being a decent human being is a choice. Believing that we still hold the power to build a country that reflects all of us is a choice.” Her words emphasize that democracy depends on citizens choosing to engage and make their voices heard.
Former President Barack Obama echoed that message, saying, “When we lose faith in each other, when we stop believing that voting matters, that citizenship matters, that our collective voices matter, that how we treat each other no longer matters, then we give away our power to define our own futures.” His statement serves as a reminder that democracy is strongest when citizens remain involved and committed to one another.
Voting is how citizens hold elected officials accountable. Congressman Andy Harris’s voting record has drawn criticism from many who believe he has too often opposed measures related to healthcare access, environmental protection, and bipartisan cooperation. This underscores the importance of voter engagement and oversight. If we don’t like Harris’s record, we need to learn more about Dan Schwartz before voting in November.
The future of Worcester County will be determined by those who participate. Every voter helps shape poli-
Continued on Page 114
cies, holds leaders accountable, and ensures that local concerns receive attention. Democracy requires participation, engagement, and a belief that our voices matter. The next election is an opportunity for us to make that choice and help define the future we want for our community.
Tish Michel Ocean City (The writer is a member of the Democratic Central Committee.)
Reduction in early voting days needed
Editor,
“Thank you for volunteering!”
I heard this from voters several times while serving as an Election Judge in the recent Primary election. I felt it was incumbent upon me to inform said voters that I, as well as all
of the other 14 or 15 workers in the room, were being paid.
I have never been a fan of early voting, which is precisely why I decided to get involved by applying to be an Election Judge in 2020. I have served in each election since then.
My purpose in writing this letter is to make sure the taxpayers of Maryland understand the incredible waste of their money in this endeavor.
During the 2024 Primary, on a day in which I was not serving as an Election Judge, and with permission from the Worcester County Director of Elections, I asked voters leaving the early voting site the following question: “Did early voting make it possible for you to vote in this primary, or would you have been able to vote without it?” Seventeen out of 17 voters said basically, “No, I would have been able to vote without the early voting - this just made it a little more
convenient.”
I want you to think about thisthere are eight days of early voting. On each day there are 14-16 paid “Election Judges” working from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. If one uses the “minimum wage” as a calculation (I’m not really sure what is the hourly or daily rate), the cost to the tax payers is tens of thousands of dollars for just those eight days. And there are many other expenses. Multiply that by the hundreds of early voting centers across the state and pretty soon you’re talking real money.
Worcester County is fortunate that (so far) our early voting centers have not charged us any rent for the nine days (one day of set up and eight days for voting). Some counties pay hundreds and even thousands of dollars in rent for each voting center (and some counties are required to have multiple centers, i.e. Prince George’s has 13 centers).
This is the thing - Primary voters vote - period. Eight or even 80 days of early voting does not increase turnout by an amount that would
come close to justifying the enormous cost. Is it rational to use millions of dollars in tax payers’ hard-earned money to make primary voting “a little more convenient”? Could we possibly think of a better use for these tax dollars?
Another issue is the number of “Election Judges" on site. This is set by the State Board of Elections - why can’t the County Board of Elections have discretion on this? I served as a paid Election Judge on Sunday, June 14. There were 14 paid workers in the room. We served 47 voters all day. This is insane.
I hope this brings some muchneeded attention to this very important situation. We simply cannot allow the State of Maryland to continue to waste taxpayer money this way.
We need to reduce the number of days for Early Voting - three or four would be more than sufficient - and give the County Board of Elections more discretion.
Carol Frazier Ocean Pines
Continued from Page 109
Letters of condolence may be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home –Berlin.
MARILYN ANN CANFORA
Ocean City
Marilyn Ann Canfora, known to her immediate family as MaryAnn, joyfully brightened this sometimes lackluster world until her death from renal failure and other complications on Tuesday, June 9, 2026.
The daughter of Philip C. and Concetta “Tina” Vendemia Canfora, she died while in hospice care, enriched by the love of her closest friend, Melinda, and her only sister, who, at her bedside, held her hand and reminded her of their hilarious childhood antics.
Born Feb. 27, 1948, in New Castle, Pa., she spent her early years asking Mommy and Daddy for a baby sister. Nearly 10 years later, her sister Susan was born, and Marilyn took great delight in bestowing an armload of nicknames, including Mick, which lasted a lifetime. She cared for the baby, taking her to her elementary school in a stroller to show her classmates and accompanying her on Halloween night when Susan was just learning to walk and her big sister was 11 or 12. Suddenly, a boy in a realistic Frankenstein costume appeared. He scared Marilyn and her friend Julie and the two ran, leaving the toddler alone at the top of the hill where they lived, arriving home to panicked parents who, together, ran out the door and up that hill to discover the little one calmly counting the Snickers bars in her plastic pumpkin.
As they matured, the sisters often went shopping -- Marilyn for lipstick, makeup, glittery sweaters and strappy sandals and Susan for books, journals, fountain pens and loafers with tassels. Regardless of having different tastes, they ended every spree at the nearest pizza shop, comparing purchases and talking late into the evening.
Marilyn graduated from New Castle High School in 1966, then studied early childhood art education at Youngstown State College, now Youngstown State University, in Ohio.
She was a talented artist with a gift for drawing and painting, had perfect penmanship and was a born comedian who, like her father, was the master of jokes, silly accents and exaggerated faces.
She excelled at dancing and from early childhood studied ballet, advanced ballet, tap dancing and classical toe ballet, continuing well into her
20s, teaching dance to young proteges, often performing in recitals and, with friends, doing The Swim, The Monkey and The Frug to hits of the 1960s, including “The Bristol Stomp,” “Blue Moon” and “Johnny Angel.”
She took much care with her appearance, was proud of her Italian heritage and fond of Sunday family dinners, especially her mother’s side dish, Green Bean and Potato Salad.
An avid reader and traveler, she enjoyed books about fashion designers and the royal family and was interested in old TV programs and movies, especially those starring Shirley Temple and her idol, Elizabeth Taylor, who shared her Feb. 27 birthday.
She often talked about her many trips, including to San Francisco, Las Vegas, The Kentucky Derby, The
Super Bowl and Italy, where she was blessed by Pope Paul VI and where, because there was no central heat, she returned home with a head cold.
She was employed in the retail shoe and photography businesses and had a longer career as an ophthalmology assistant.
An animal lover, she had several cats in her lifetime, including a cantankerous Siamese named Sulin, who she nicknamed Loopie Chaswick; gentle, well-behaved Andrew; and Jameson Katz, who patiently allowed her to dress him in tiny polo shirts and kiss his furry cheeks as she photographed him from every angle.
She is survived by her sister, Susan Canfora of Ocean Pines; her closest friend, Melinda Watson of New Jersey, her husband and children, who bestowed the title of Emily Post on Marilyn, because of her penchant for
being proper; many more friends who loved being in her company; aunts and uncles; 17 first cousins on the Canfora side of the family; four cousins on the Vendemia side of the family; and several second and third cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents, both of New Castle, who later relocated to Ocean City; paternal grandparents, Alessandro and Mary Bordonaro Canfora of New Castle; maternal grandparents, Stefano and Assunta “Susan” Granata Vendemia of New Castle; and several aunts and uncles.
Marilyn’s ashes will be scattered on the beach in Ocean City, where she enjoyed many summer vacations with her family.
Those who cherish her memory will gather for a celebration of life in future weeks.
(July 3, 2026) Wor-Wic Community College recently held its 24th annual golf tournament at the college’s Ocean Resorts Golf Club in Berlin. The tournament raised more than $67,000 and will support the educational needs of Wor-Wic students.
This team with the lowest gross score was the Burke & Herbert Bank team of Rob Forosisky, Joe Franz, Eddie Moore and Trent Pusey, followed by the Bank of Ocean City team of Hank Fisher, Jason Parker and Brandon Tolan. Third place went to the Delmarva Power team of Marcus Beal, John Petito, Renee Sheehy and George Vogelsang.
The top team with the lowest net
score was the Charles Brown Glass team of David Brown, Kevin Brown, Tim Perunko and Evan Perunko. The second-place team was Value Carpet One, with Buddy Adams, Chris Adams, Mitchell Adams and Tom Wingate. The Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce team of Cindy Chambers, Bill Chambers, Linda Davis and Ralph Davis won third.
Longest drive winners were Dick Kemp and Hali Leeson. The winner of the putting contest was Averill Anderson, who got a hole in one.
Closest to the pin prizes were awarded to Andy Holloway, Bryan Mercer, Scott Phillips and Brian Richards.
Junior players invited to Pickleball Camp sessions
(July 3, 2026) The Ocean Pines
Racquet Center is inviting young pickleball players to a three-day Junior Pickleball Camp next month.
Led by PPR and IPTPA Certified Instructor Linda Horst, the camps are split into two sessions based on experience level. Both sessions will be held July 13-15.
Beginners ages 8-14 are invited
to the 4:30-6 p.m. session. The cost is $75 per player.
Players ages 12-15 with prior instruction through camps or lessons, or who play pickleball four to six times per month, are invited to the Intermediate session from 6-8 p.m. The cost is $100 per player.
To register, call the Pro Shop at 410-641-7728.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
The Charles Brown Glass team, consisting of, from left, Kevin Brown, Tim and Evan Perunko and David Brown had the lowest net score in the Wor-Wic Community College golf tournament.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
The Burke & Herbert Bank team of Joe Franz, Eddie Moore, Trent Pusey and Rob Forosisky had the lowest gross score in the Wor-Wic Community College golf tournament at the college’s Ocean Resorts Golf Club in Berlin.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Representing the college’s team at the annual golf tournament fundraiser were, from left, Averill Anderson, Jimi Close, Deborah Casey, president of Wor-Wic Community College, and Roger Follebout.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Bill Chambers, Cindy Chambers, Linda Davis and Ralph Davis celebrate in the clubhouse after the Wor-Wic Community College golf tournament at the college’s Ocean Resorts Golf Club in Berlin.
PRIZE MONEY AWARDED IN SALTWATER SLAM
The Fish N Paddle Saltwater Slam was held last weekend in Ocean City. More than $7,000 was distributed to the top three anglers. Taking home first place and $4,000 was Charles Breon with a total eight of 18.75 pounds – a 7.4-pound black drum, a 7.25-pound sheepshead and a 4.1pound sheepshead. Also walking away with prize was Brian Scharle, 13.35 pounds, $2,000, and Gary Ward,13.3 pounds, $3,020. The winning anglers are pictured with their big checks.
OP FLOUNDER TOURNEY GIVES OUT PRIZE MONEY
The Worcester County Chamber of Commerce in Ocean Pines held its 19th Annual Flounder Tournament last week. The tournament’s top prize went to Ken Yuen, fishing aboard Miller Time Charter out of Ocean City, captained by Brandon Miller. Yuen landed the tournamentwinning flounder, weighing 4.04 pounds, earning the team the tournament’s $5,000 firstplace prize. Christina Pilley, also fishing aboard Miller Time Charter, finished in second place and earned $1,500 for her catch. Combined with Calcutta winnings, the charter team took home more than $10,500 in total prize money. Kevin Donald Sr. finished third, earning more than $1,500 in combined winnings.
