07/18/2025 OC Today-Dispatch

Wind

farm still faces tough row to hoe

County chips in $100k to anti-wind effort and EPA finds a mistake. Alleged preferential treatment by state raises local hackles. — PAGES 12, 13, 20

Special election Tuesday Schools may feel fed cuts in spending

Voters to decide whether short-term rentals will be allowed in singlefamily neighborhoods, as ordinance restricting that practice goes to referendum. — PAGE 16

The county system has $1.6 million on the line as feds decide whether to fund programs.

— PAGE 89

BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

GONDOLA GONE

A worker guides a crane basket loaded with gondola parts to the ground as the Ferris wheel known as The Big Wheel is dismantled. The amusement park ride was booked by Trimper’s for a partial run in Ocean City. Owned by Biggest Wheel LLC of Texas, the ride makes the rounds of state fairs throughout the country.

Motorist sentenced for role in passenger’s fatality in ‘24

By Steve Green Executive Editor

(July 18, 2025) Eighteen months after a passenger in his vehicle died in a collision, a Maryland motorist was sentenced to 10 years in jail, with all but three years suspended, for his role in the fatality.

On Jan. 12, 2024, at approximately 10:35 p.m., deputies from the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office responded to Selby Road in Bishopville for a single vehicle collision. The initial investigation revealed that a single vehicle left the roadway during inclement weather and collided with a tree. The vehicle sustained extensive damage.

Nicholas Charles Schewe, 22, of North East, Md., a passenger in the vehicle, died on scene. The driver, Liam Austin Strum, 24, of Berlin, was transported due to his injuries to TidalHealth but later recovered.

Charges were filed against Strum and a jury trial was scheduled for this week in Worcester County Circuit Court.

On Wednesday, the plea deal was executed in court, according to Worcester County State’s Attorney Kris Heiser. Strum plead guilty to the top charge, a felony count of negligent manslaughter by vehicle-adult victim. The felony charge carrying a maximum penalty of 10 years and fines up to $5,000 came after prosecutors found he acted “in a grossly negligent manner,” according to court records.

Other charges filed against Strum included another count of negligent manslaughter by vehicle -adult victim, negligent homicide by vehicle under influence, negligent homicide by vehicle while impaired, driving under influence, driving while impaired and driving under influence per se.

Worcester County Circuit Court Judge Brian Shockley accepted the plea deal to the top count and sentenced

Strum Wednesday to 10 years in the Department of Corrections with all but three years suspended. According to Heiser, upon release from incarceration, Strum will be on five years of supervised probation with a number of special conditions including a fine of $2,500. Other special conditions include abstaining from all substances, including medical cannabis; an alcohol restriction on license for the period of probation; must have ignition interlock on all vehicles for three years; random urinalysis checks; and multiple treatment and therapy requirements.

Schewe was from Cecil County and worked at Sunset Marina in Ocean City at the time of his death, according to his obituary.

Schewe’s obituary from Crouch Funeral Home read, “Nick did many wonderful things in his short life. He helped start a food ministry in North East. He volunteered as an assistant football coach for Upwards. He was an avid sports fan and not only loved football and hockey but played both sports. He traveled out west to visit the national parks and drove down the California coast, stopping to zipline in the giant redwoods near Big Sur. Nick loved cars and hanging out with his friends at car shows. He enjoyed racing at the Cecil County Drag Strip and spent much of his free time working on his cars. He and his Poppop shared their love of cars and spent many hours discussing them. He loved the water and grew up boating and fishing on the Chesapeake Bay with his family. Nick attended the Marine Mechanics Institute in Orlando, Florida, earned his captain's license, and worked at Sunset Marina in Ocean City, Maryland. Nick fell madly in love and got engaged to the girl of his dreams, Breann, and they planned to get married this October (2024).”

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OCBP spreads word on tent ban, beach canopy restrictions

Officials interact with 2K visitors in first three weeks

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 18, 2025) Officials say members of the Ocean City Beach Patrol (OCBP) continue to educate beachgoers on new tent and canopy restrictions.

Ocean City Emergency Services Director Joe Theobald told members of the Ocean City Police Commission this week that in the three weeks since the Beach Patrol began its awareness campaign, staff have interacted with at least 2,200 individuals and have tagged roughly 600 canopies left unattended on the beach before 10 a.m.

He said the OCBP will continue those efforts throughout the remainder of the season.

“They are doing the best they can to educate,” he said. “Some people don’t know when they come for the first time. Some are second violators.”

This spring, the Ocean City Council passed legislation to ban all beach tents, with the exception of baby tents. The ordinance also prohibits beachgoers from erecting beach canopies before 10 a.m. and then leaving those canopies unattended; prohibits beach canopies larger than 10-by-10 feet; requires a 3-foot sepa-

ration around a canopy’s perimeter; and requires the anchoring for such canopies to be contained within the canopy’s footprint.

However, officials say this summer will be focused on educating the public on the new rules. To that end, the Beach Patrol has been charged with spreading the word.

“I agree with the premise this year …,” Theobald told commission members on Monday. “There’s been no enforcement. It’s all education.”

Theobald noted that certain canopies – branded as Shibumi or Sun Ninja – appear to be the biggest source of violations on the beach this summer. Officials noted the anchors extended outside the canopy’s footprint.

“A great number of the violators are the newer style [of canopy],” Theobald said, “which are actually

the safest ones on the beach because they don’t have a center pole or anything that can impale anybody.”

Mayor Rick Meehan, however, disagreed. He said most of the canopies he saw along the beach had poles that ran straight down.

“The issue is it becomes a size war,” he said of the violators. “People want to capture the largest area they can on the beach, and they keep getting bigger and bigger. If you don’t do something, they’ll just keep getting bigger and bigger. That’s the problem.”

When asked if beachgoers complied with the warnings, Theobald said that some continued to violate the ordinance the next day. However, he said the Beach Patrol would continue to approach beachgoers.

“They are our ambassadors,” Meehan said of the city’s lifeguards. “Tell them thank you for doing a good job.”

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State erred in offshore wind permit process

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(July 18, 2025) Maryland’s Department of the Environment should have advertised a federal appeals process, not a state one, for members of the public wishing to challenge the final permit for a planned wind farm off the coast of Ocean City.

The 114-turbine wind farm is supposed to be built 10.7 miles into the Atlantic Ocean – in federal waters. That means when Maryland issued a permit for developer US Wind to proceed, it did so under federal authority with the blessing of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA.

That was the gist of a stark notice that EPA Regional Administrator Amy Van Blarcom-Lackey sent July 7 to Serena McIlwain, Maryland’s Secretary of the Department of the Environment, or MDE.

The federal government is using the technical error in the appeals process as leverage to force a permit re-issue by Maryland. If the permit isn’t fixed and reissued, the entire permit could be overturned on appeal, the letter says.

“Failure to rectify this error could result in invalidation of the permit on appeal and confusion among relevant stakeholders with respect to where to bring such an appeal,” BlarcomLackey wrote.

Now, the feds say MDE will have to reissue its permit decision and state clearly that the authority came from federal law. Otherwise, an appeal filed by a citizen in the wrong court could be thrown out.

The state is also being asked to remove all online mentions of a state appeal process and then clearly state how to file a federal appeal with EPA’s Environmental Appeals Board.

The feds also want Maryland to mention that there’s a 30-day deadline to file a petition for review from the date of re-issued permit.

As a result, the state is forming its response.

“We received the letter and are reviewing it now,” MDE spokesman Jay Apperson said in an emailed statement. “MDE is committed to ensuring all our permit processes are transparent and in accordance with the law.”

The Town of Ocean City continues to fight the offshore wind project. The municipality is embroiled in a lawsuit against the federal government to slow or stop the wind farm. Town

leaders just last week pledged $100,000 toward an anti-wind public relations campaign called Stop Offshore Wind.

City Manager Terry McGean said he was pleased with the EPA ruling.

“We have been asserting for some time now that these permits are being fast tracked through without proper review or correct legal process,” McGean said via email. “MDE’s failure to correctly identify the proper appeal process for the Air Quality permit is just another example of how US Wind continues to receive special treatment from the State.

McGean added: “We are glad to see that now, federal agencies are beginning to look at this project in a fair and balanced matter and not ignoring laws, rules, and regulations because a project claims to be ‘green.’”

US Wind remains confident that all its permits were validly issued, according to a statement via email from spokeswoman Nancy Sopko.

“We’re very committed to delivering this important energy project to the region. The state needs all the new sources of electricity we can build in order to keep prices affordable for homes and businesses,” she said.

Offshore wind opponents, like Congressman Andy Harris, chalked

up the technicality as a win for their side.

“The EPA has confirmed what many of us knew for years – this project was approved with glaring procedural and legal flaws,” Harris (R-1st, Maryland) said in a July 11 statement.

“The Maryland Department of the Environment had no business directing the public to appeal a federal permit to a state court, and such a decision showed both incompetence and a disregard for public input from my affected constituents in Worcester County.

“For many years, my constituents across the First Congressional District have been overwhelmingly clear: they do not want offshore wind off their coast. This ruling is a major victory for the Eastern Shore, the environment, and our local economies that are existentially threatened by this project,” Harris added.

President Donald Trump just announced plans to strip subsidies from wind and solar projects, according to a July 7 Executive Order – one that could still be challenged in the courts. The latest budget reconciliation bill passed by Congress and signed by Trump on July 4 also rescinds other green energy subsidies and moved up completion deadlines to the end of 2027.

State allegedly greased the wheels for US Wind project

previously awarded ORECs,” which is what US Wind, the only qualified bidder, did.

By Stewart Dobson Editor

(July 18, 2025) Ocean City government officials’ opposition to US Wind’s proposed wind farm within sight of the beach involves more than their fear that the horizon, as viewed from the resort, will be spiked with towering turbines.

They also resent what they see as the preferential treatment accorded US Wind by state government in recent years.

“The biggest example is the entire OREC re-bid process,” City Manager Terry McGean said in an email this week. He was referring to a chain of events that ended with US Wind being able to sell its Offshore Renewable Energy Certificates (ORECs) to providers for about 70 percent more than it originally set out to do.

The state structure created to provide for offshore wind farm development required regulated utilities — the companies that sell electricity to consumers — to buy a certain amount of renewable energy.

To do that, the electric company would by a certificate, or OREC, for a set price. In turn, the money from that sale would be used by the offshore wind developer to help pay for its project.

In Maryland, the government created a specific number of ORECs, which were bid on by two companies: Orsted and US Wind. Each listed a price that the purchaser, the electric company, would pay.

“Then, two years ago, Orsted pulled out of their contract and the General Assembly created a new OREC bid round, ostensibly to bid on Orsted’s abandoned ORECs,” McGean explained.

“However,” he continued, “the legislation also allowed holders of existing ORECs to rebid all of their

According to McGean, US Wind changed its OREC pricing from $54.17 MWh (megawatt hour) too between $91.32 to $101.29 MWh, an increase of at least 70 percent in what an electric company would have to pay.

“The Public Service Commission’s own consultant found that the US Wind bid did not meet the rate cap requirements of the legislation,” McGean said, “yet the PSC overrode their consultant’s findings and awarded US Wind the full amount of ORECs at their bid price.”

Further raising the hackles of local officials was that unlike the procedure in the first round of bidding, when the OREC prices were shown throughout the process, the prices were redacted in the second round.

Not until after the bid hearing had been held and the Public Service Commission awarded the contracts to US Wind did anyone not directly involved have any idea of what the cost would be.

McGean, who before he became the city’s chief executive was the city engineer, also lamented what he viewed as an easy path to approval for US Wind’s dock and bulkhead plans for the commercial harbor in West Ocean City.

Those plans had to go through the Maryland Department of the Environment, which in McGean’s experience had specific requirements.

“In the past, I had always submitted a front view drawing (of a project), but they are very time-consuming to produce. Because I was familiar with US Wind’s approved application to replace over 350 feet of bulkhead in the harbor, which did not contain a single front view drawing, I thought MDE must have changed their requirements. I guess they did for US Wind, but not for anyone else.”

City parking division ends FY25 with revenue surplus

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 18, 2025) The Ocean City government’s parking division concluded its fiscal year with $393,000 in excess revenue.

During Tuesday’s meeting of the Ocean City Transportation Commission, Transportation Manager Rob Shearman presented officials with final parking revenues for fiscal year 2025, which ended June 30.

While revenues were budgeted at roughly $6.64 million, the final number came in at just north of $7 million, he said.

“Parking revenues ended the year basically 6% up from revenue projections,” he told committee members. “And those revenue projections were adjusted upwards a couple of times during the season.”

With a new fiscal year now started, Shearman said revenue projections for 2026 have been set at $7.6 million, representing a 9% increase year over year. He said that the department should be able to attain that number, as inlet lot, ocean block and special event parking rates have now increased.

“We do expect those will have a positive impact,” he said. “Even if usage is consistent, the revenue should show some growth.”

Shearman also highlighted revenues collected through parking kiosks and the ParkMobile app during the current parking season, which started in April. As of June 30, the city has collected more than $2 million.

“This calendar year, we are 14% ahead of where we were last year in terms of revenue,” he said.

When asked if the parking division had received any complaints over the

new parking rates, Parking Manager Jon Anthony said he had received one from this year’s spring Cruisin event.

He also highlighted continuing issues with the city’s pay stations, which are located at the inlet lot.

“The pay stations have an innate flaw that they work off the cell towers,” he said. “And if we don’t have a good cell signal, they stop working.”

Anthony noted that when the pay stations disconnect from the internet, and don’t reconnect before a paying driver leaves the inlet lot, the driver will receive a ticket. He said the division continues to dismiss tickets for that issue.

However, City Manager Terry McGean said the problem should resolve itself, as the city plans to remove the inlet lot pay stations by the end of the year. Last year, the council agreed to transition the city’s entire parking system to the ParkMobile app by the end of 2025.

“The problems will probably go away,” he told the committee.

However, officials say they will continue to address erroneous tickets in the meantime. Mayor Rick Meehan said the city will dismiss tickets from individuals who can show they made a payment.

“It is customer service,” he said, “and something that Ocean City does very well.”

While on the subject of parking, McGean also commended the city’s transition away from pay stations and toward mobile payments. He said he thought the city would receive more pushback from the public.

Meehan agreed.

“The transition has been virtually seamless," he added.

BETHANY HOOPER/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Members of the Ocean City Transportation Committee are pictured reviewing parking revenue numbers.

Council votes to lower photo franchise fee

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 18, 2025) Ocean City officials this week agreed to reduce the annual franchise fee for a local beach photography business, with a plan to re-evaluate the terms of its contract at a future meeting.

Citing their struggles to keep the business afloat, Telescope Pictures owners Jon and Sam Cameron came before the Ocean City Council on Tuesday with a request to reduce the company’s annual franchise payment by $76,250, extend the company’s contract with Ocean City through November of 2030 and collaborate with the

city’s tourism department on potential sponsorship opportunities.

However, after a lengthy discussion, the council voted unanimously to support an immediate reduction in the company’s annual fee and to revisit the remaining two requests at a later date.

City Manager Terry McGean said staff would come back with an ordinance that would not only address a three-year contract extension and sponsorship agreement but would revise the bid amount for the remaining years of the company’s current contract with the city.

“I think that’s the cleanest option for everybody,” Council President Matt

James said.

For years, Ocean City’s beach photography franchise was essentially divided into two separate franchises. The two franchises were not divided geographically but rather limited the number of photographers allowed on the beach.

In 2018, the Camerons submitted the only bid for one of the two franchises and was awarded a four-year contract at $152,500 per year. And in 2019, the owners expressed interest in the second available franchise, which they bid at $76,250 per year.

To that end, the mayor and council that year agreed to consolidate from a

two-franchise system to a one-franchise system and reduce the minimum bid to $225,000.

However, changes in technology and the proliferation of cellphones have challenged the company’s business model in recent years, McGean told the council this week.

While the city has made some concessions to allow the franchise to continue operating, he said the owners were seeking the council’s approval to reduce the company’s fee back to its original amount of $152,500, extend its contract through 2030, and to explore sponsorship opportunities with

Rental referendum set for Tuesday in resort

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 18, 2025) The Town of Ocean City continues to issue absentee ballots in advance of next Tuesday’s special election.

On July 22, Ocean City’s voters will cast their ballots “for” or “against” a city ordinance that will phase in a short-term rental ban in R-1 residential and MH mobile home districts by 2027. In the lead-up to next week’s special election, City Clerk Diana Chavis says the city will continue to issue absentee ballots.

“As of today, 259 absentee ballots have been issued,” she said in a statement Monday. “Absentee ballots are issued until close of business July 21.”

Earlier this year, the Ocean City Council voted to enact a five-night minimum stay on short-term rentals located in single-family neighborhoods during

the 2025 and 2026 rental season, and a 31-night minimum stay beginning in 2027.

As the city code defines short-term rentals as 30 days or less, the ordinance would effectively ban vacation rentals in those districts in two years.

From the outset, those in support of the ban argued that short-term rentals are a business, and as such are not allowed in single-family neighborhoods. Officials have also reiterated the need to preserve those residential nature of those districts and minimize the noise, trash, and parking issues that are sometimes associated with short-term rentals.

However, those against the ordinance argue the ban not only fails to fix those problems, but also violates the property rights of R-1 and MH owners. They also contend that short-term

rentals are a pathway to full-time residency in Ocean City and support Ocean City’s tourism industry.

To that end, a group of property owners launched a petition drive to bring the ordinance to referendum. And in May, after the group submitted the required number of signatures to bring the legislation before voters, the Ocean City Council agreed to hold a special election July 22, rather than wait until the next regularly scheduled municipal election in November of 2026.

Registered Ocean City voters will be able to cast their ballots at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center, located at 4001 Coastal Highway, from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. next Tuesday.

Those wishing to vote by absentee ballot must submit their absentee ballot application to the Board of Supervisors of Elections of Ocean City, c/o the Office

of the City Clerk, 301 N. Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland, 21842, no later than 4:30 p.m. on Monday, July 21.

The city asks that voters allow ample time to receive the ballot in the mail and to return the ballot to the Board of Supervisors of Elections.

“Absentee ballots issued prior to July 21 can be received until close of business on Election Day,” Chavis said.

The city notes that those who have submitted their absentee ballot applications and have not received a ballot by July 14 should call 410-289-8824.

the city’s tourism department.

“Right now, we are the last resort town with the beach franchise …,” McGean said. “If the council thinks there’s still value in having this service out there, then staff believe it’s a reasonable request from the Camerons.”

“What we’re asking is to help us stay in business,” Jon Cameron added.

With the council’s consensus that the city needed to do something to keep the traditional ‘scope business alive, Council Secretary Tony DeLuca moved to approve the three requested changes.

However, Councilman John Gehrig said he had questions about the collaboration that would take place between the company and Ocean City Tourism.

“What ideas were discussed?” he asked.

McGean said the city could assist the company through the purchase of marketing materials, including keychains and ornaments, although the details have yet to be arranged. For his part, Gehrig said he wanted more information.

“If there’s more financial involvement, that needs to be discussed too,” he said.

James noted the company’s request had two goals – immediate relief and long-term success. He suggested the council focus on reducing the fee for this season and revising the contract for future years.

McGean agreed. He said the delay would give staff more time to come back with an ordinance that not only revises the fee in the company’s current three-year contract, but also lays out the terms of a three-year extension, which could include a marketing agreement with the city.

“My thought is we give them the immediate fee reduction this year,” he said. “Then we can come back to you with the full package.”

After further discussion, DeLuca amended his motion, and the council voted 6-0 – with Councilwoman Carol Proctor absent – to proceed with McGean’s suggestion.

County turns down festival service concept

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(July 18, 2025) Citing liability and business competition concerns, Worcester County officials torpedoed a proposal to use fishing boats to shuttle Ocean City concertgoers across bay waters during the resort’s fall music festivals.

“Approving this assumes a duty of care for all the people that are going to be getting on this,” County Attorney Roscoe Leslie told the county commissioners at their meeting Tuesday. “These fishing boats will be basically used as ferries. So, we’ve got boats that are not designed to be ferries, on docks that are not designed for ferries, either.”

The request came from Tony Battista, of the charter boat service Saltwater Adventures, who sought permission to run a water taxi service from a public dock at the West Ocean City commercial fishing harbor during the Oceans Calling and Country Calling concerts.

In a June 1 letter to the county, he presented his idea to ferry concert guests across Isle of Wight Bay to the Angler restaurant on the Ocean City bayside. Each of 14 participating charter boats could take six passengers per 16-minute trip, and would lighten the load for event traffic and parking.

Battista planned to use West Ocean City hotels as a loading point for buses,

whose passengers would be transported to the harbor for their boat ride. Hotels liked the idea, according to the letters of support he shared from hoteliers and the Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association.

By his own admission, it wouldn’t be the first time Battista operated an unsanctioned water taxi service during concert season.

During the inaugural Oceans Calling in 2023, he personally carried 197 passengers on the first day of the event before bringing on five more boats for the second and third days.

Last fall, for year two, he brought on seven local charter boats. They moved 800 people for Oceans Calling and 900 for Country Calling. Earlier this year, he did it again during Boardwalk Rock, carrying nearly 1,000 passengers on eight boats, according to his letter.

“What started as a simple idea to carry a few friends and neighbors into town by boat has really taken off,” Battista wrote. “It also solves multiple problems such as parking problems and driving while intoxicated. It also provides a lot of work for local charter captains in the shoulder seasons.”

Battista had the backing of the county’s recreation and parks department, who previously had met with him on-site at the West Ocean City harbor to discuss logistics.

“We feel this proposed service will help to reduce the number of vehicles entering Ocean City, helping to reduce traffic, parking issues, and safety. In addition, this service is very beneficial to the hotels in West Ocean City and to other local captains and charters,” department head Kelly Rados wrote in a July 7 internal memo.

It was unclear whether Battista had been charging passengers a fare. He did not return a phone call seeking comment for this report.

The commissioners ended up rejecting the proposal unanimously. Officials said they couldn’t support Battista’s venture because several water taxi services already exist as licensed and established businesses.

The county’s attorney noted how a limited number of boat slips on harbor’s north side already are leased to commercial boats, and that the nearby boat ramp – separate from the commercial area – is supposed to be for recreational use by county code.

“This sounds like it would be a very profitable business venture that we would essentially be giving to one vendor without having a competitive process,” he said.

Commissioner Eric Fiori (District 3, West Ocean City) said he’d used one of these existing shuttle boats, the Tipsy Tiki, during a visit last fall to Country

Calling. He called Battista’s proposal “fairly invasive” and said established maritime businesses shouldn’t be endrun.

“We already have licensed businesses that are doing this,” he said. “I do appreciate the community need for this, but I think our county attorney put it best: it un-levels the playing field.”

Commissioner Caryn Abbott (District 1, Southern) said she likes the convenience for concertgoers to get back and forth to the event, but expressed concern for intoxicated passengers. “I want to make sure the county’s not liable for somebody falling overboard,” she said.

Not only should Battista’s liability be in the multimillions, but by giving their blessing, it would open the door for copycats, surmised Commissioner Joe Mitrecic (District 7, Ocean City).

“Everybody with a center console in the world could go start picking people up at that spot. There’s no policing of it whatsoever,” he said.

Despite the rejection, Battista could continue to provide his water taxi service – just not on country property.

“This can still happen. It would just need to be on a private location. This isn’t killing the concept completely,” County Administrator Weston Young said. “You just need to find a private dock or a private business to operate this.”

County gives $100K to anti-wind campaign

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(July 18, 2025) Worcester County elected officials have pledged $100,000 toward an ongoing public relations campaign to fight offshore wind projects, matching a contribution from Ocean City’s City Council.

The funding request came from the county’s head of tourism and economic development, Melanie Pursel, who updated the county commissioners on the activities of the nonprofit group Stop Offshore Wind.

The public-private coalition was formed to combat US Wind’s proposed offshore wind farm off the coast of Ocean City, with the closest turbine projected to be about 11 miles off the beach.

Last Monday, the City Council also agreed to contribute up to $100,000

to the cause. In her pitch, Pursel led with this fact – prompting Commissioner Chip Bertino (District 5, Ocean Pines) to jump in with an offer.

“So, you need $100,000?” he asked.

Politely, Pursel said yes.

“I make the motion,” Bertino said.

The commissioners voted unanimously to approve his motion with a second from Commissioner Caryn Abbott.

As a result, up to $100,000 will be paid from county surplus funds sometime during the 2026 fiscal year.

It won’t be in one lump sum but would be paid as invoices are submitted to the county, according to county government spokeswoman Kim Moses.

Pursel added that the group aims to stretch its funding through early 2026, dovetailing with the end of the 2026 Maryland General Assembly legislative session.

“It’s really, really good to see you and Ocean City and everybody working together as one,” said Commissioner Joe Mitrecic (District 7, Ocean City). “It’s been a great campaign so far. I hope it’ll continue to go in that direction. It’s been a perfect storm, so to speak, for you all to work together.”

Pursel said the group isn’t just so-

liciting government contributions but is also seeking private sector donations to join a growing network of cooperating organizations. These include the Ocean City Chamber of Commerce, the Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association, the Coastal Association of Realtors, and the Worcester County Watermen’s Association.

The campaign is fighting efforts of the developer US Wind’s intention to install 114 wind turbines off the coast. Its talking points include the assertion that offshore wind energy production is inefficient and unreliable, that the 938-foot-tall wind turbines will depend on fossil fuel backup systems, that wind turbines are the most expensive way to generate electricity, and that the high costs of development and production would be passed onto ratepayers.

In an internal memo to the commissioners, Pursel added that the Stop Offshore Wind campaign, now an established 501(c)(4) nonprofit, is reaching a “critical period for public engagement and policy influence” that requires a cash infusion.

“The funds invested so far have been used judiciously and effectively, but the battle is far from over. Continued support from Worcester County will enable us to expand our outreach, respond to misinformation,

and amplify the voices of residents, visitors, and businesses that depend on a healthy, vibrant, and accessible coast,” she wrote.

It’s not Worcester County’s first foray into offshore wind opposition.

US Wind plans to construct an operations and maintenance hub at the West Ocean City commercial fishing harbor. To fight this, Worcester County officials continue to ponder the pursuit of eminent domain, to seize the properties – two legacy fish houses for commercial watermen –where the hub would be built.

US Wind initially reported holding the option to buy both fish houses, but updated its proposal to just one, a concession that ensures at least one fish house would stay open. The company has also raised the possibility of paying commercial fishermen directly to compensate for lost revenue. County officials, meanwhile, also have mulled the prospect of buying the fish house properties themselves, a move that would snatch the properties out from under from US Wind, but could cost taxpayers millions of dollars.

Allowing US Wind to take the fish houses would “effectively dismantle the region’s working harbor and industrialize our oceanfront,” according to Stop Offshore Wind.

Emergency services react to boat propeller incident

Amazon eyes OC airport for trans-Atlantic cable landing

(July 18, 2025) Multiple agencies responded last Sunday to a serious trauma when an individual was struck by a boat propeller. The victim’s condition was unknown as of Thursday.

Around 4 p.m. on Sunday, the Ocean City Fire Department (OCFD) responded to a distress call from a boat reporting that a person had been struck by a vessel and its propeller in the north Sinepuxent Bay speed zone.

According to an OCFD press release, “Ocean City Fire Boat 1, was already underway conducting training nearby and arrived within minutes.

Upon arrival, Fire Boat 1 crews located a Good Samaritan vessel that had pulled the injured individual from the water and begun First Aid.

“Fire Department EMT’s &

Paramedics on board Fire Boat 1 quickly transferred the patient to Fire Boat 1 and initiated advanced life-saving procedures while maintaining position with the vessel involved in the incident. Maryland Natural Resources Police and United States Coast Guard also were on scene.”

Maryland State Police - Aviation Command Trooper responded to the U.S. Coast Guard Station Ocean City, where the patient was transferred to an awaiting Ocean City ambulance for continued care until the arrival of Trooper 4.

“This is one of several serious trauma calls our fire boat has intercepted recently while out training,” said Lieutenant Jeff Apperance, fire boat commander.

“Our personnel train continuously to ensure that our visitors receive high-quality care, no matter the type of emergency, on land or on the water.”

The incident remains under investigation by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Individual hurt in water accident, event is under investigation, officials say

Project to link US, Ireland with an undersea cable, OC and fishing groups involved

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 18, 2025) Online mega-marketer Amazon wants to land a transAtlantic cable system at the Ocean City Municipal Airport and resort officials are working with the company to see if it can be done.

City Manager Terry McGean confirmed this week that the Town of Ocean City has been approached by Amazon to land fiber optic cable at the airport.

While negotiations are underway, he said the proposed project would essentially involve the placement of a manhole in the grassy area near the terminal.

“We are in negotiations at the present time and there is no firm commitment,” he said. “Amazon has been working with the commercial fishing community and the White Marlin Open to make sure nothing they do will interfere with those activities. That was a condition we insisted upon before we would even consider the project.”

Jeanene Gwin, vice president of the Waterman’s Association of Worcester County, said her group has been working alongside the Town of Ocean City and several sport and recreational fishing groups over the last six months to review the proposed project, which she said would involve running subsea cable from Ireland.

An application filed last year with Ireland’s Maritime Area Regulatory

Authority shows the company sought a license for survey work “to investigate the feasibility of constructing a new transatlantic subsea telecoms cable system, linking the United States to Ireland, from a landfall on the East Coast of USA to a landfall at Castlefreke, County Cork on the southwest coast of Ireland,” although a landing point was not named at that time.

Gwin this week recognized the city for including members of the fishing community in its talks with Amazon. After six months of meetings and research, she said the association determined the project would have no detrimental effect on commercial, recreational or sport fishing.

“We’re all supporting it,” she said of the project. “Hundreds of cables come across the Atlantic. It’s nothing new.”

Last week, the vessel Time & Tide began inshore survey work as part of the project. Spearheaded by SubCom, the vessel would be surveying the ocean floor within 20 miles of the coastline from now until approximately July 31, Gwin said.

A notice published last week asks fishing vessels to keep their distance and move any lines, nets or traps away from the route area.

“It’s not invasive,” she said of the survey work.

Gwin also applauded Amazon representatives for working with stakeholders on the project.

“It was nice to be included,” she said. “We’ve been so left out of everything as far as wind energy and US Wind. To be included in everything has been refreshing.”

Thomas J.

Mailloux team motions to permit discovery

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 18, 2025) An administrative case involving Tyler Mailloux, the Berlin man serving 18 months for a traffic offense in the hit-and-run accident that killed 14-year-old Gavin Knupp, will be appealed to Maryland’s higher court.

On Tuesday, County Attorney Roscoe Leslie filed a notice to appeal a judge’s motion in a case connected to Mailloux’s housing status at the Worcester County Jail.

The decision came three days after Worcester County Circuit Court Judge Brett Wilson granted a motion filed by Mailloux’s attorney, George Psoras, to permit discovery in his client’s case.

“Discovery orders in administrative appeal cases directed at senior government decision makers are ap-

pealable as final orders under the collateral order doctrine,” Leslie’s motion reads. “Accordingly, Respondents seek a stay of all discovery pending the outcome of the noted appeal.”

Mailloux seeks review of jail actions

Mailloux has been incarcerated in the Worcester County Jail since Feb. 25, when he entered a guilty plea to a felony count in Knupp’s death. Nine days later, he was moved to a more confined unit, known as a special management area, at his own request.

Since that time, however, Mailloux has sought the jail’s permission to be placed back into the general population, which his attorney argued will give him an opportunity to earn diminution credits for an earlier release.

With those requests denied, Mailloux’s attorney filed a petition in April seeking a judicial review of the jail’s actions. Psoras argued the jail’s actions were “an abuse of discretion”

and had violated his client’s rights as an inmate.

He also alleged Worcester County State’s Attorney Kris Heiser had a private conversation with the warden regarding Mailloux’s housing status, and that he had been advised he could not share the conversations he had with jail staff with the state’s attorney.

It should be noted that Heiser has declined to comment on the Mailloux’s administrative case.

It was on these allegations that Psoras filed a motion last month to permit discovery in the case. And last Friday, the judge granted his request, opining that it followed Maryland rules.

While mandamus cases, like the one filed on Mailloux’s behalf, are typically based on the records of administrative proceedings, the court can permit additional evidence if there’s a “strong showing” of fraud or extreme circumstances outside the scope of record.

County responds

Last month, Leslie filed a response to Psoras’ motion, arguing the petition had not met the criteria for allowing discovery. He also noted that Mailloux’s request for relief had been met, as he has since been relocated to another area of the jail where he is able to earn credits toward his release.

“There is nothing in the Petition constituting a ‘strong showing’ of fraud or extreme circumstances –only unverified and unsubstantiated allegations and averments,” he wrote. “There are no documents, no affidavits, no details – no evidence at all.”

On Monday, following Judge Wilson’s ruling on Psoras’ motion, Leslie filed a motion to stay the case, pending the outcome of an appeal.

Leslie pointed to the collateral order doctrine, which allows a party to appeal a court decision before the entire case has concluded, so long as it meets certain criteria.

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INLET DREDGING UNDERWAY

The Army Corps of Engineers Dredge Merritt, pictured Tuesday from the Route 50 bridge, has begun removing 7,500 cubic yards of materials from the Inlet to improve navigability with the White Marlin Open set for next month. The project is expected to last eight to 10 days.

Berlin approves old chicken plant property rezoning

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(July 17, 2025) Following a public hearing, the Berlin Town Council approved a request from developers to rezone parcel 57 at Heron Park from R-1, residential, to B-2, shopping district, to allow for the space’s renovation.

Heron Park’s parcel 57, the site of the former Tyson Foods poultry processing plant, will be rezoned from a residential district to an area designated for shopping and retail. The Berlin Town Council green-lit the reclassification at its meeting on Monday, July 14.

Per the property’s new categorization to B-2, the sale of parcel 57 from the Town of Berlin to developers Palmer and Sandy Gillis of Coastal Ventures Properties (CVP) may now go forward. CVP agreed to purchase parcel 57 from the Town in April. The contract stipulates that for the sale to proceed, the land must be rezoned from residential to commercial use.

The developers’ attorney, Mark Cropper, went before the Berlin Mayor and Council during the governing body’s meeting earlier this week, requesting the rezoning of parcel 57 based on a previous classification mistake and a change in the character of the neighborhood. Cropper gave a similar presentation to the town’s planning commission last month, seeking their recommendation, which they provided.

Cropper said that the space must be rezoned, as there has been a change in the character of the neighborhood. Cropper defined the neighborhood as either the Town of Berlin as a whole, or a more restricted location bounded on the north by US Route 50, bounded on the south by Franklin Avenue, bounded on the east by Route 113, and bounded on the west by Route 818.

Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall noted that the more specific neighborhood definition “is kind of the nutshell of Heron Park.”

According to Cropper, the neighborhood’s character has changed, as the space was once overwhelmed by the poultry processing plant, an industrial site. As this use is no longer in operation, the location’s nature has shifted.

“As far as the change in the character of the neighborhood, Tyson’s poultry plant doesn’t exist anymore, that was that neighborhood, and thus that is a change in that neighborhood that is consistent with this request,” the attorney said.

Cropper and CVP also claimed that parcel 57 should be rezoned on the basis that its current classification, residential, was an error.

“You have a property that is presently zoned R-1, and there has been an industrial use on it as long as I’ve been alive,” Cropper noted. “Those two things could not be more inconsistent.”

Town of Berlin attorney David Gaskill

Once settlement occurs, Coastal Venture Properties has indicated the rear buildings of the former poultry processing plant will be renovated and made into a commercial operation.

Zoning change to allow businesses to operate at site

added that parcel 57’s current zoning uses are disallowed on the property. This fact further supports the argument that the location should be reclassified.

“The presented evidence, based on a mistake, would indicate that this property is currently zoned R-1, but it is prohibited from constructing residences on the property,” he said. “That is the classic definition of a mistake.”

At last month’s planning commission meeting, Berlin Town Administrator Mary Bohlen said that the municipality purchased the property in early 2016, at which point it was rezoned R-1, with the intention to turn it into a large park. That goal never came to fruition, but the residential distinction remained.

The town council unanimously approved to rezone parcel 57 at Heron Park from R-1 residential to B-2 shopping and retail. Councilman Jack Orris made the motion to pass the resolution and accept the testimony from Cropper as a statement of fact. Councilman Jay Knerr seconded that motion.

Bohlen noted that the resolution technically does not take effect for 10 days after its passage.

Now that the property will be rezoned to allow commercial uses, the sale of parcel 57 from the Town of Berlin to CVP may proceed. While the developers do not yet know what exactly will be utilized by the refurbished parcel, their plans include office and retail space. The Gillis’ committed to constructing at least one office or retail building in the designated area within two years of closing as part of the redevelopment plans. CVP is responsible for the reengineering costs associated with the site.

Earlier this spring, the town agreed to sell parcel 57 to CVP, which consists of approximately 9.35 acres of land, for $1,200,000. The price includes the allocation of 15 sewer Equivalent Dwelling Units (EDUs) to the property.

Although ownership of the parcel will be transferred from the municipality to the developers, there are limitations on what can operate on the site. In the contract, the Town of Berlin and CVP have agreed upon a list of establishments that are banned from existing on the land. The prohibited uses include pawn shops, gun shops, tanning salons, massage parlors, adult video and book shops, adult entertainment facilities, check cashing facilities, tattoo parlors, liquor stores, and gambling facilities. "Quite honestly, we don't know yet what's going to go there, but it will be consistent with the provisions," Palmer Gillis said at last month’s planning commission meeting.

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Berlin’s sign auction raises $10K for community center

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(July 18, 2025) The Town of Berlin’s street sign auction, launched earlier this month, has drawn to a close, securing over $10,000 in revenue for the municipality’s community center project.

To raise funds for a community center in Berlin, the town’s leaders auctioned off retired street signs, including stop signs, road name posts, and speed limit banners, via the ClickBid system. The program kicked off on July 1 and officially concluded at noon on Tuesday, July 15.

According to Sara Gorfinkel, executive assistant to Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall, upon the closure of the bidding war Tuesday afternoon, 140 of the 158 available signs were auctioned off, and more than 200 people had logged into the system, placing a total of 1,116 bids.

At the Berlin Mayor and Council’s meeting on Monday, July 14, Gorfinkel noted that the auction had secured the town $7,690 at that point. By noon the next day, that figure rose to a little over $10,000, surpassing the executive assistant’s goal of $8,000.

The money will be used for a historical display inside the town’s planned community center. The exhibit will likely incorporate plaques, archive materials and display boxes.

“We want to highlight the history of Berlin and the families that have made Berlin what it is,” Gorfinkel said last month. “We know that the archives and the history are significant to the Town of Berlin, so we are specifically raising money to put aside for that. We have the Taylor House Museum, so that it won’t be anything on that level. Still, we want it to be people-focused and an excellent resource, so people feel their history is reflected in the community center.”

The auction’s profit will help town leaders reach this goal. Gorfinkel noted that some of the more desirable signs included Baker Street, which, as of Monday night, had garnered 30 separate bids at $370; Graham Avenue, with 25 bids at $300; and two vintage North Main Street signs, one reaching $260 and the other $270.

The vintage Williams Street sign raised the most amount of money, auctioning for $440, with 54 bids.

Officials maintained that the street sign auction wasn’t just for locals. Most bidders were registered in the Town of Berlin, but several were outside the municipality’s limits, some even as far as Colorado, Arizona, and California.

Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall acknowledged the program’s success, adding

See SIGN Page 34

Sign auction raises $10K-plus

that it was shared earlier this month with a member of Maryland Governor Wes Moore’s team.

“They loved it so much, they said, ‘Can we share this with the rest of the state?’ We’ve taken something here that would otherwise be thrown in the garbage and made $10,000 on it for the community center,” Tyndall said.

The mayor added that the town has access to the software ClickBid for a year. The municipality is likely to utilize the website again, possibly around the holiday season, for additional fundraising efforts.

“It helps when we’re looking for funding to be able to show local support,” he said.

The community center is an ongoing

project for Berlin, now $10,000 closer to fruition. The endeavor has been on the town’s docket for decades, but has started to make headway over the past few years. The future building will provide meeting space, recreational activities, services, and amenities, and will be located at 130 Flower Street.

Progress towards the planned facility has been made possible through a partnership between the Town of Berlin, the Berlin Community Improvement Association (BCIA), SHOREUP! Inc., and the Worcester County Commissioners, who worked to combine four parcels of property on Flower Street, formerly adjacent to the Flower Street School.

Successful bidders can pick their signs up from Town Hall any day next week between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Berlin tweaking new parking lot, usage increasing

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(July 18, 2025) Progress at Berlin’s new parking lot, located on the corner of West and Washington streets, is moving along, with ongoing discussions about possible improvements, including signage, fencing, landscaping, pay-to-park software, and a recommendation to prohibit on-street parking in areas near the property.

The new car park, which opened last month, is expected to alleviate a lack of suitable parking in Berlin. The municipality has historically struggled to provide enough parking spaces, especially during popular events, when visitors and residents flock downtown. In recent years, an uptick in Berlin’s popularity has created enduring parking issues, as the supply was not enough to handle the number of vehicles finding their way into town.

Earlier this year, to address the challenge, the Berlin Mayor and Council entered into a 10-year lease agreement with William Esham, Jr., for a vacant 2.13-acre lot on the west side of West Street. The area will supply around 110 spots.

Now, officials are getting that lot up and running in time for the rest of the busy summer season.

At the Berlin Mayor and Council’s meeting on Monday, July 14, members of the parking subcommittee tasked with spearheading the creation of the new lot provided a project update to town residents and the council.

Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall created the parking subcommittee, which includes Council members Steve Green and Jay Knerr, Town Administrator Mary Bohlen, Public Works Director Jimmy Charles and others. The group’s most recent progress report revealed that residents and visitors initially had access to the new lot during the town’s annual Bathtub Races on June 20.

“We learned some interesting feedback from that opening,” Tyndall said. “One, that people like to use the lot, which is good. Two ... we can see that the lot is getting used, which is a good case study for why it's important.”

The subcommittee members note that rolling out the car park will be a gradual process, with improvements and modifications made as needed. Tyndall said that at the group’s July 7 meeting, the parking team discussed upcoming changes and additions planned for the lot to improve accessibility and awareness of its existence.

Charles has installed new signage with the universal “P” symbol to denote parking on the lot. The team also

Mayor, committee meeting to make improvements

Continued from Page 35

hopes to eventually implement “park at own risk” signs to address any liability concerns.

The new lot will be promoted on the town’s social media channels to ensure visitors and residents are aware of its existence, especially ahead of significant community events, such as the weekly farmers' market. According to Tyndall, the property has been added to the town’s Google Maps.

The subcommittee intends to obtain a quote for railroad ties or a similar type of framing to create a perimeter, or island, around the signs where cars can park. The horticulture committee will also likely assist with plantings on the interior of each island for aesthetic purposes.

Additionally, the group will solicit another quote for a wooden and vinyl fence for the West Street side and the Washington Street side of the parking lot.

Furthermore, the pay-to-park system ParkMobile will eventually be implemented for the car park, which the Town of Berlin hopes will help with the expenses on the 10-year lease.

Additional improvement efforts include removing the site’s “No Trespassing” signs, which Tyndall maintains have already been completed. Signage will also be added in town to direct people to the lot.

The mayor added that these improvements will be funded by the $75,000 earmarked in the fiscal year 2026 budget for the project.

“It was the stewardship of our finance director to place $75,000 in our FY26 budget for improvements to the lot,” Tyndall said. “So that's where the improvements mentioned above, the creation of the island, the putting up of the fence, would come out of that funding.”

Per the creation of the new lot, Berlin law enforcement has recommended prohibiting on-street parking on the entirety of West Street, as well as making Washington Street from West Street to Broad Street a no-parking zone. These restricted sites will be indicated with signage.

Tyndall stated that residents or businesses affected by the change may contact the town via email to request special consideration. The mayor noted that these individuals may be given free access to the municipal lot for a year while they make accommodations.

The decision to create no on-street parking zones is aimed at ensuring public safety. West Street is already narrow. Adding a pay-to-park lot near a road with free parking could increase the number of vehicles lined up on that street, making it impossible for emergency vehicles to navigate through.

recommendation

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

The new Berlin parking lot on West Street is pictured on Sunday around noon during the weekly farmers market. Town officials estimated more than 70 vehicles utilized the new lot for the market and about 40 vehicles on Saturday for the Hot Summer Swing event.

Council to decide on no parking on all of West Street

handful of residents on West Street leave their cars on the road for various reasons, such as limited driveway space on their property.

Councilman Jack Orris asked how the town plans on alleviating any issues this action may have on Berlin citizens.

Resident Marie Velong addressed the council during the public comment period. She said that she believes banning on-street parking on West Street is unfair, and residents should be notified of the change well in advance.

“They need to know ahead,” she said. “They need to have this in their plans. It's another case where business priorities take precedence over the residents of Berlin, and it annoys me. It's the residents that are the bulk of this community.”

Tyndall said that he understands the concerns, but that the new lot will support Berlin as a whole.

“We hear at our level, and I’m sure it happens in social circles as well, people can't find parking,” the mayor said. “If you're a resident and want to come downtown, you can't find parking, so this offers ways that our residential community, as well as the commercial district, can have mutual benefits.”

Tyndall added that the town will work to assist those affected by the new no-parking rule.

“If you’re impacted, we understand that that could come as a challenge initially,” he said. “To help you overcome that, all you have to do is bring us up to speed on what that challenge is, why you can’t meet your parking needs, and then we can grant 12-month use of this lot for no payment to residents or businesses if they can show this change in no parking directly impacts them.”

However, after the one-year grace period, Tyndall stated that businesses, residents and/or landlords should have made modifications to comply with the no-parking restriction.

The new parking lot’s early days seem to be successful, subcommittee members say. According to Green, at a town event last Saturday, 30 to 40 cars were parked in the new site. That number rose to 65 to 70 on the next day’s farmers market.

“Over the last two days, the 110 vehicles that have parked in that lot have helped our residents as well as our businesses,” Green said. “Street parking wasn’t utilized as much because there were people following the signage that was put up or using Google Maps to go to that lot. That was the idea: to have a place where people could go. I’m proud of that response we had.”

“It’s clear that people are finding it and using it and will continue to do so,” Knerr added.

Eastern Sho at

Berlin’s first swing event celebrates bank anniversary

(July 18, 2025) Taylor Bank commemorated its 135th anniversary in style on Saturday July 12 with a community celebration, hosted in partnership with the Berlin Chamber of Commerce.

The event, aptly named “Hot Summer Swing and Taylor Bank Cheers to 135 Years!”, brought together neighbors, friends, and families for a day filled with music, fun, and heartfelt gratitude.

"The ‘Hot Summer Swing and Taylor Bank Cheers to 135 Years’ celebration was a testament to the incredible bond between our bank and the community we’ve proudly served since 1890," said M. Dean Lewis, Chief Executive Officer and President of Taylor Bank. "As we honor our history and look toward the future, we are deeply grateful for all of our customers, team members, and the greater community, who helped make this milestone possible."

The celebration honored the loyal customers and close-knit community that have been the cornerstone of Taylor Bank’s success since its founding in 1890. Guests enjoyed lively entertainment from the Gatsby Gang Band, hourly prize giveaways featuring themed gift baskets showcasing each of

Taylor Bank’s markets on the Delmarva Peninsula, and a grand prize drawing of $1,135 awarded to one lucky attendee at the conclusion of the event.

Families delighted in attractions like a bounce house and a stilt walker, while local food and drink vendors provided delicious refreshments. Guests also had the opportunity to tour bank’s headquarters and original branc

During an intermission, local attorney, author and past Taylor Bank Board member Joe Moore captivated the audience with stories about the bank’s rich history. The celebration was enriched by the presence of public officials, who joined in recognizing Taylor Bank’s milestone anniversary with proclamations and words of appreciation.

As part of the festivities, Taylor Bank proudly announced the recipients of its 2025 For Good Grants, which provided a $5,000 grant to each organization that will support their missions and enhance the quality of life in the communities the bank serves. This year’s grant recipients include:

Eastern Shore Coalition Against Domestic Violence: This organization emSee GRANTS Page 40

Swing music for the first Hot Summer Swing and Taylor Bank Cheers to 135 Years! event was provided throughout the day by the Gatsby Gang Band, above, on the stage at Main Street. Below, during the event, three recipients of Taylor Bank’s For Good Grants were presented $5,000 each, including for Maryland the Village of Hope organization. Other recipients were Eastern Shore Coalition Against Domestic Violence in Virginia and the Cancer Support Community DE from Delaware.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF GOOD BOY MANUFACTURING

Grants awarded at swing event

powers victims of domestic and sexual abuse through vital support programs that raise awareness and promote prevention. The For Good Grant will help the coalition provide essential resources such as personal hygiene products, transportation assistance, and moving expenses.

Village of Hope: Focused on fostering self-sufficiency for at-risk single women and women with children, Village of Hope operates the Steps to Success Transitional Living Program. This two-year initiative offers rent-free, fully furnished apartments along with

intensive case management and personalized support services for families experiencing homelessness or housing instability. The For Good Grant will support the program’s ongoing operations.

Cancer Support Community DE: Serving Sussex County, this organization offers free support groups and professionally led programs to help individuals and caregivers navigate the emotional challenges of cancer. The For Good Grant will fund facilitator fees for licensed mental health professionals who lead these critical support groups. Continued from Page 38

Matching grant for fund

The Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore has shared the Rosenfeld Holocaust Education Fund has received a generous matching grant from the Robert I. Schattner Foundation and Sidney and Phyllis Bresler. Every dollar contributed to the fund will be matched up to $25,000.

The Rosenfeld Holocaust Education Fund provides transportation and admission costs for students and educators visiting the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C., providing an invaluable opportunity to learn firsthand about history, tolerance, and human rights.

This past school year, eight different schools totaling almost 1,000 students and chaperones were able to visit the Holocaust Memorial Museum with all expenses paid. With the expansion of the fund and the matching grant opportunity, fund founder Warren Rosenfeld hopes to expand the program to serve more students across the Lower Shore.

“Growing up, I didn’t realize the impact of the Holocaust on my own family. As I learned more, it felt imperative for me to share their stories,” said Rosenfeld.

“I want to help future generations recognize the legacy of hate and also the power of hope by exposing as

many young people as possible to the National Holocaust Museum. I appreciate all those who are joining me in this cause by supporting this fund.”

To support the fund, visit CFES.org/donate and indicate “Rosenfeld Fund” or pay by check to 1324 Belmont Avenue, Ste. 401, Salisbury, Md. 21804 and indicate “Rosenfeld Fund” in the memo.

Students honored

The following represents a collection of announcements about local students.

- Kathryn Heintz of Berlin has been named to Purchase College's Dean's List for the Spring 2025 semester. Heintz is studying Theatre and Performance.

- Shenandoah University's Julianna Fohner of Ocean City was one of a school-record 358 SU student-athletes named to the 2024-25 Old Dominion Athletic Conference AllAcademic Team in selections announced by the conference on July 9. In addition, Fohner graduated in the spring after earning a Bachelor of Business Administration.

- Rife Leonard of Ocean City earned dean's list honors at University of Tampa as a Junior in the Spring 2025 semester. Leonard is majoring in Accounting.

CROSSWORD

Pictured, from left, are Warren Rosenfeld, fund holder and founder of the Rosenfeld Holocaust Education Fund, and Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore President Erica Joseph. SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, your confidence is peaking and people are noticing. Even though you are on a roll, don’t let it go to your head. Midweek might be a test of your patience, but you’ll keep your cool.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

You are craving creature comforts, Taurus. This week you might be happy with keeping things slow and relaxing. You also may want to splurge on a treat.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, this week your brain may be best compared to a Wi-Fi signal. In other words, moving fast, seeking new information and maybe a little glitchy. Slow down enough to focus on necessary tasks.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, you might be feeling tender this week, and others may be realizing that you’re giving off warm-and-fuzzy vibes. That will suit you at home, but you may need to be more firm at work.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Your charisma is showing this week, Leo, and people could be eating it up. You’re giving off lead character energy right now, but don’t forget to let others share some of your spotlight.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

This week you are completely focused on organizing your life, Virgo. Whether you need to use spreadsheets or label makers, do whatever it takes to fix what you think needs it most.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, it’s time to embrace some social events, or at least get them on the calendar. Practice your small talk and get ready to mingle. You will be ready to be the life of the party.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, if you’ve been holding on to secrets, one may slip out this week. It could be a confession or a breakthrough, but it will be intense to reveal.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

You may be halfway out the door and ready for some adventure, Sagittarius. Spontaneity will look good on you this week, but reserve some time for your responsibilities.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Take inventory of what you have accomplished thus far and enjoy what you have built, Capricorn. You don’t need to prove anything because you’ve been rocking it.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

What to-do list, Aquarius? Your ability to focus on tasks and knock them off one by one is monumental this week. Your brain definitely has been firing on all cylinders.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Someone might surprise you this week with an unexpected compliment or an offer of help, Pisces. Accept either gladly and then figure out how to pay it forward.

Wor-Wic inks first labor contract

(July 18, 2025) The Wor-Wic Community College board of trustees voted Thursday to ratify the first collective bargaining agreement for the Wor-Wic Community College Faculty Association (WWCCFA), the faculty union that formed in October 2023.

“I’m gratified that we were able to work collaboratively to create this historic agreement,” said Melissa Reddish, WWCCFA president and an associate professor of English at the college. “I feel confident together we can nurture an atmosphere of trust and care for all, an atmosphere necessary to support the dynamic, innovative, student-centered work of the institution.”

Reddish noted that all members participated in the vote, and 94.7% voted in favor of the contract.

“We commend the representatives of WWCCFA and our administration negotiating team for their dedicated and respectful collaboration throughout this process to achieve the college agreement,” said Morgan Hazel, chairperson of the board of trustees.

The newly ratified contract is effective July 10, 2025, through June 30, 2028, and covers a wide range of economic and workplace provisions that reflect the union’s priorities and the college’s commitment to a thriving faculty. The goal of the negotiations was

for faculty and administration at WorWic to work together to find interestbased and student-centered solutions concerning faculty working conditions, wages and benefits, while ensuring the long-term viability of the college and its ability to provide high-quality educational opportunities for all students.

“The ratification of our first collective bargaining agreement marks a significant milestone that strengthens our commitment to supporting faculty and enhancing the educational experience for our students. I’m proud of the work

both teams have done to reach this milestone, and I look forward to the continued success it will bring to our college community,” said Deborah Casey, Ph.D., president of Wor-Wic.

The new agreement identifies terms for evaluation, reappointment, faculty rights and responsibilities, leave benefits, compensation and association privileges, among other items.

WWCCFA is part of the Maryland State Education Association, which represents 75,000 educators across the state.

SUBMITTED

Deborah Casey, Ph.D., president of Wor-Wic Community College, Melissa Reddish, WWCCFA president, and Morgan Hazel, chairperson of the Wor-Wic board of trustees, celebrate the signing of a collective bargaining agreement for faculty.

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 18

SIPPIN’ WITH SLOTHS

Coastal Wilds, 34215 Peppers Corner Road, Frankford, 6-8 p.m. Music by Sound Living/Glenn Stern. Cost is $40 and includes sloth encounter, selfguided tour, and one complementary glass of wine. Tickets: https://book.singenuity.com/469/activity/details/2284/ rates. 302-829-1548

PLAY TIME

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

OC MAHJONG CLUB

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

ACRYLIC PAINTING 101

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Local artist Jean Frank teaches us the basics of acrylic painting. Registration required: 410-208-4014. www.worcesterlibrary.org

FANDOM FRIDAY: POP STARS

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 3:30 p.m. Drop in for crafts, quizzes and discussions about the monthly topic. For ages 12-18 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

MIXED MEDIA WITH SISTA BIG

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 6 p.m. Use a variety of materials to create unique art and poetry pieces. Light refreshments. Registration required: 410-957-0878. www.worcesterlibrary.org

KIGHTS OF COLUMBUS BINGO

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

Sat., July 19 29TH

South Gate Pond, Ocean Pines, 9-10:30

a.m. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. Bring own rod and reel; bait is provided. Children 3 years and younger can fish but are not eligible for trophies. Free event. All registrants receive a prize. 610-505-1697

21ST ANNUAL OCMC KIDS CLASSIC

Sunset Marina, 12911 Sunset Ave., Ocean City. Weigh-ins from 3-6:30 p.m. Awards banquet and carnival held July 20 at OCMC. Every angler receives an award. For ages 19 years and younger. https://members.ocmarlinclub.com/To urnaments

WALK WITH A DOC

Southgate Pond, Race Track Road, Ocean Pines, 9-10 a.m. An AGH representative will speak on a topic of their expertise, then the group will walk around the park’s trail. First 10 participants receive $10 Wal-Mart gift card. Alyce.Marzola@TidalHealth.org, 410641-9268

CARIBBEAN SEA FAMILY SPLASH

Swim & Racquet Club Pool, 10 Seabreeze Road, Berlin, 5-8 p.m. Featuring a tropical themed, Caribbean atmosphere, music and activities. Some food will be available to purchase. Cost is $7 for swim members, $9 for residents and $11 for non-residents. 410-641-5255

ORIGINALS ONLY

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 6-8 p.m. This event brings together poets, comedians, musicians and performers to showcase their originals. Free and open to the public, snacks included. 410-524-9433, https://artleagueofoceancity.org

ISLAND SOUNDS PLAYS REGGAE

Germantown School Community Heritage Center, 10223 Trappe Road, Berlin, 6-9 p.m. Enjoy fellowship and fun. Hot dog, chips and soda sold for $5. Bring your own chair, cooler and picnic basket. Cost is $10. Tickets: 410-6410638.

OCEAN PINES FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

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

Sun., July 20

21ST ANNUAL OCMC KIDS CLASSIC

Sunset Marina, 12911 Sunset Ave., Ocean City. Weigh-ins from 3-6 p.m. Awards banquet and carnival held at OCMC. Every angler receives an award. For ages 19 years and younger. https://members.ocmarlinclub.com/To urnaments

SUNDAES IN THE PARK WITH FIREWORKS

Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 7-9 p.m. Featuring “Making Waves” (upbeat dance). Kids enjoy free activities and entertainment. Ice cream and beverages available for purchase. Free event concluding with fireworks.

BERLIN FARMERS MARKET

Sundays - Pitts Street, Commerce Street and Main Street, Berlin, May through October, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine. Producers only market featuring more than 50 farmers, food cultivators, bakers, distillers, seafood, meat and more. Also featuring a petting farm (9-11 a.m.), free kids art station and live music. TheBerlinFarmersMarket.com

SEWING FOR A CAUSE

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

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

Mon., July 21

OC BEACH DANCE PARTY WITH FIREWORKS

Caroline St. Stage, 2 N. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 7:30-9:30 p.m. Featuring DJ Knappy. Fireworks show starts at 9 p.m. https://www.ococean.com/things-todo/free-family-fun/oc-beach-dance-party/

STORY TIME: ICE CREAM

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

MOVIES AND MUNCHIES

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Are you ready for an adventure? Join the group as they raise Motufetu. Munchies included. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

FIBER CRAFT MEET-UP

T.O.P.S. OF BERLIN - GROUP #169 Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 5-6:30 p.m. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a weekly support and educational group promoting weight loss and living a healthy lifestyle. Rose Campion, 410641-0157

BRIDGE

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

DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS

Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6:00-8:00 p.m. All ladies who love to sing invited. Mary, 410-629-9383 or Carol, 302-242-7062.

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 22

USSSA OPENING CEREMONIES

Caroline St. Stage, 2 N. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 3:45-5:30 p.m. The family viewing area opens at 3 p.m. Parade staging at 3:30 p.m.; parade at 3:45 p.m. Games and DJ dance party begins at 4:30 p.m. Age group: 13U & 14U. https://ece.usssa.com/softball, 410524-9433

YOUNG CREATORS ART STUDIO

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Kids can explore their creativity and create their own masterpiece. Perfect for kids ages 6-11 years. All materials included while supplies last. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

STORY TIME

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

PLAY TIME: BUILD-IT

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 10:30 a.m. Join in for construction and block play. For ages 0-5 years. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

OC KNITTING GROUP

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Do you love to knit or crochet? Bring whatever project you happen to be

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 4 p.m. Bring your work in progress for community and shared knowledge. Held in the meeting room or in the garden, weather permitting. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

working on. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

TEEN ART STUDIO

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Teens will experiment with different artistic techniques to create unique works of art. All materials provided while supplies last. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

SEAFOOD NIGHT WITH THE KNIGHTS

Knights of Columbus Hall, 9901 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Held Tuesdays in the Columbus Hall behind St. Luke’s Church. Pre-order crabs Monday or Tuesday morning of that week: 410-524-7994. Non-seafood options will be available.

CROSS FARMS POP-UP FARMERS MARKET

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

BEACH HEROES-OC

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

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY

Tuesdays - Worcester County Health Department, 9730 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3:30-4:30 p.m. TOPS is a weekly support and education group promoting weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. 410289-4725

OC KNITTING CLUB

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

ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE

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

ZUMBA TONING TUESDAYS

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

WEIGHT MANAGEMENT AND WELLNESS GROUP

Tuesdays - Holy Trinity Cathedral, 11021 Worcester Highway, 2-2:45 p.m. Use the weight loss program/app/plan of your choice. Free and open to every-

one. 410-641-4882, www.htcanglican.org/activities.

Wed., July 23

MOVIES ON THE BEACH

Carousel Oceanfront Hotel & Condos, 11700 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 8:30 p.m. Featuring “Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory.” Free, familyfriendly event. Bring blankets, chairs, snack, drinks and warm clothing. Weather permitting. www.ococean.com/ things-to-do/free-family-fun/

BARIATRIC SUPPORT GROUP

Meets the third and fourth Wednesday of each month. For surgical patients. Atlantic General Bariatric Center, 410-6419568

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, www.worcesterlibrary.org

YOUNG CREATORS ART STUDIO

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Kids can explore their creativity and create their own masterpiece. Perfect for kids ages 6-11 years. All materials included while supplies last. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BUBBLE, BUBBLE, POP!

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:30 p.m. Experiment with bubbles of all shapes and sizes and discover how to make bubbles. For ages 6 years and older. 410208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

PAINT A SUMMER DAY LIKE MONET

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 2 p.m. Create some summer-themed impressionistic art in the style of Claude Monet. For ages 6-18 years. Registration required: 410-957-0878. www.worcesterlibrary.org

COFFEE & CRAFTS: WATERCOLORS

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Join in every month for a new craft. Materials provided. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP

Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3-4 p.m. The goal of the group is to provide participants with hope for the future. Gail Mansell, 410-641-9725, Gail.Mansell@TidalHealth.org

FUN NAIL ART

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 4:30 p.m. Practice making designs using stencils, polish and test nails. Best of ages 12-18 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

FAMILY FUN NIGHTS

Wednesdays (through Aug. 20) - Ocean Pines Yacht Club Pool, 1 Mumford's Landing Road, 6-8 p.m. DJ, games and prizes. Food available for purchase. Admission is $3 for OP swim members, $5 for OP residents, $7 for non-residents and free for non-swimmers. Cash only. 410-641-7052, oceanpines.org

KIWANIS CLUB MEETING

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

Thurs., July 24

SUNSET PARK PARTY NIGHTS

Sunset Park, 700 S. Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 7-9 p.m. Featuring “Risky Business” (rock and roll), views of the sunset over the Isle of Wight Bay and free admission. https://www.ococean.com/things-todo/free-family-fun/sunset-park-party-nigh ts/

CONCERTS IN THE PARK

White Horse Park Pavilion, 235 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines, 7-9 p.m. Featuring music by Colossal Fossil Sauce. Free family entertainment. Bring chairs, blankets, etc. Food will be available for purchase and BYOB is acceptable. Smoking area is in the rear. 410-6417052

YOUNG CREATORS ART STUDIO

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Kids can explore their creativity and create their own masterpiece. Perfect for kids ages 6-11 years. All materials included while supplies last. 410-6410650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

STORY TIME IN THE PARK

White Horse Park, Ocean Pines, 10:30 a.m. Join in for a colorful story time at White Horse Park. There will be songs, dancing and crafts. For ages 2-5 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

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. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

ALZHEIMER’S CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP

Atlantic General Neurology at the Atlantic Health Center, 9714 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3-4:30 p.m. This group is open to all caregivers and helps participants build a support system with others who understand. Heather Adkins, 410632-0111, Heather.Adkins@worcoa.org

OC CHESS CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30

a.m. Enjoy a relaxing game of chess every Thursday at the library. 410-5241818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

MOBILE MENTOR

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 1 p.m. Oneon-one assistance for those who want to make the most of their tablet or mobile device. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

TEEN ART STUDIO

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 2 p.m. Teens will experiment with different artistic techniques to create unique works of art. All materials provided while supplies last. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

ONGOING EVENTS

BASEBALL BUS TRIP

Phillies vs. Orioles at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, PA, Aug 6. Game time is 12:35 p.m. Bus will leave at 8 a.m. from Ocean Pines Community Center. Tickets cost $85 and include transportation and game ticket. Register: 410-641-7052.

FREE SUMMER PROGRAMS AT THE OC LIFE-SAVING STATION MUSEUM Summer programs take place at the OC Life-Saving Station Museum, 813 S. Atlantic Ave., from 10-10:30 a.m., Monday through Saturday, July 7-Aug. 29. Monday - History of Our Surfmen Tuesday - Beach Safety Wednesday - Knot Tying Thursday - All About Sharks Friday - Land, Sky & Sea Saturday - Aquarium Feeding For more info: 410-289-4991, emma@ocmuseum.org

CREATIVE KIDS CORNER: COLOR BY NUMBER

Ocean City library, 10003 Coastal Highway, July 1-31. Grab an art kit to create at the library or take it with you. Most supplies are included. For children ages 0-11 years. 410-524-1818

WOMEN SUPPORTING WOMEN’S 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS IN JULY RAFFLE

Women Supporting Women, 1320 Belmont Ave., Salisbury, June 1-July 25. Tickets $10. Daily raffle to win prizes for the 12 days of Christmas in July. 410548-7880

Crossword answers from page 42

HELP WANTED FT/PT

MAINTENANCE PERSON

For small community in the Berlin area. General maintenance knowledge needed. Good pay! Large equip. exp. helpful. 410-641-5102

CLEANERS WANTED

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

Karen@ocpurifiers.com

FIRE ALARM TECHNICIAN:

Locally Owned Co looking for an experienced TECHNICIAN. Must have good driving record and some background in Fire Alarm systems. Competitive pay with benefits. 410-641-4411

THE IRENE CONDOMINIUM on 111th Street in Ocean City is hiring a full/part-time Maintenance Person for seasonal and/or year-round work. Great work environment with flexible hours in a friendly beachfront building. Competitive hourly wage based on experience. Duties include routine maintenance, minor repairs, light painting and groundskeeping. Light physical labor is required. Text or call Ed @ 443-415-8000

MAINTENANCE Full Time ~ Year Round. Experience Preferred. Flexible Schedule. Apply in person Comfort Inn Gold Coast, 11201 Coastal Hwy. ~ OC

AMERICAN LEGION Assistant Manager, PM Shift 2 Line Cooks, experience required. Part-time. Apply at Post, 2308 Philadelphia Avenue or call for information at 410-289-3166

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

Carquest Auto Parts & Marine, now has an opening for a PARTS ASSOCIATE at our location in Ocean Pines. We will train the right person. Must be reliable and have great customer service experience. Call: 302-344-9769

WOC YR HOUSE

3BR, 3BA, W/D

Unfurnished

$3,000 per mo. 410-430-9185

WATERFRONT BAYSIDE

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

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

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

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

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

SERVICES

Amie’s House Cleaning Service, Ocean Pines/Berlin area. Excellent Rates and References. Call 410-430-6971.

LARRY’S HANDYMAN SERVICE

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

not

It could mean a world of difference to a hard-working international student. We are looking to get as many bikes as possible. Your donation will be taxdeductible. Contact Gary at 443-975-3065.

I flung it away, Never to see it again! Little did I know! What, now, would I give, One moment’s return?

MISC. FOR SALE

Get Boost Infinite! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 855-977-5719

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

VEHICLES WANTED

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

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 SERVICES

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

FLETCHER, ESQ. TRUSTEE

COUNCIL OF CO-OWNERS OF BOARDWALK ONE, INC.

P.O. BOX 762

Ocean City, MD 21842

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND C-23-CV-24-000014

COUNCIL OF CO-OWNERS OF BOARDWALK ONE, INC.

P.O. BOX 762

Ocean City, MD 21842

Plaintiff v.

High Hopes Inc, et al. Defendants

TRUSTEE’S SALE

OF TIME SHARE INTERVALS IN Boardwalk One Condominium OCEAN CITY, MD

By virtue of the power and authority resulting from a Claim of Lien recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, in Liber 8599 folio 15, and pursuant to the Order of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland for case no. C-23-CV-24-000014, the undersigned Trustee will offer for sale at public auction on the steps of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, located at 1 West Market Street (Main Entrance), the following described property located in Snow Hill, Worcester County, Maryland, on Friday, August 1, 2025, at 11:00 AM the following timeshare intervals:

and/or to reject any and all bids. Terms of Sale: A deposit in the full amount of the sales price per time interval will be required at the time of sale, such deposit to be in cash, check, or electronic payment. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes, 2025 maintenance fees and all other settlement costs shall be borne by the purchaser at settlement. The date of settlement shall be within fifteen (15) days after final ratification by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland. Time being of the essence; otherwise, the deposit will be forfeited, and the property will be resold at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser, or in any manner designated by the Trustee; or, without forfeiting the deposit, the Seller may exercise any of its legal or equitable rights against the defaulting purchaser. The purchaser waives personal service of any papers filed in connection with its failure to settle within ten days of ratification and expressly agrees to accept service by first class mail at the address provided by the Purchaser as identified on the Memorandum of Sale. The defaulted purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds resulting from said resale even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulted purchaser. For more information, call: Ayrika Fletcher, Esq., Trustee, at 443.672.8107.

OCD-7/17/3t

COHN, GOLDBERG & DEUTSCH, LLC

1099 WINTERSON ROAD, SUITE 301

LINTHICUM HEIGHTS, MARYLAND 21090 www.cgd-law.com/sales

SUBSTITUTE

TRUSTEES' SALE

OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY

8203 ATLANTIC AVENUE #8PH OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

chase price to be paid within 10 days of ratification of sale by the Court, with interest at the note rate from date of sale to settlement. If settlement is delayed for ANY reason, there shall be no abatement of interest or taxes. All private utility, water and sewer facilities charges, front foot benefit payments, ground rent, or condo/HOA assessments, not otherwise divested by ratification of the sale are payable by purchaser without adjustment. Real estate taxes and all other public charges, or assessments, to be adjusted as of date of sale. Transfer and recordation taxes, and all other costs incident to settlement, shall be borne by purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property.

TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE. If purchaser fails to go to settlement within ten days of ratification, or otherwise fails to comply with the terms of sale, the Trustee may declare the entire deposit forfeited and resell the property at the risk and expense of defaulting purchaser, who agrees to pay reasonable attorneys' fees and costs if a motion to resell the property has been filed, purchaser waives personal service of any paper filed in connection with such motion, and agrees to accept service of any such paper by regular mail to the address provided at time of sale. If the Trustee cannot convey insurable title, or the loan servicer determines that the sale should not have occurred, the sale shall be null and void, and purchaser's sole remedy shall be the return of deposit without interest.

This property will be sold subject to the IRS right of redemption for a period of 120 days after the sale.

Richard E. Solomon, et al., Sub. Trustees Tidewater Auctions, LLC (410) 825-2900 www.tidewaterauctions.com

CGD File #: 461769 OCD-7/3/3t _________________________________

County, Maryland, described as APP 55'X165' 113 ROSS STREET SNOW HILL and being identified on the Tax Roll as Parcel ID: 02017385, and which may be known as 113 Ross St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, Defendants.

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property situate in Worcester County, Maryland, sold by the Collector of Taxes for Worcester County, Maryland, and the State of Maryland: described as APP 55'X165' 113 ROSS STREET SNOW HILL and being identified on the Tax Roll as Parcel ID: 02-017385, and which may be known as 113 Ross St., Snow Hill, MD 21863.

The Complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid.

It is thereupon this 24th of June, 2025 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 general circulation in Worcester County, Maryland, once a week for three (3) successive weeks, the last insertion on or before the 21st day of July, 2025, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 23rd day of August, 2025, and redeem the property and/or answer the Complaint or thereafter a final judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in and as to the property, and vesting in the plaintiff a title free and clear of all encumbrances.

Beau H. Oglesby JUDGE

True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk at the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-7/3/3t

Each time interval being one per year in the corresponding unit, each being part of the Boardwalk One Condominium Time-Share Regime, including an undivided interest in the common elements thereof, as established pursuant to a Declaration of Condominium and Timeshare recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland and subsequent Declarations of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions, as to each condominium and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records.

The property will be sold in an “as is” condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranties and guarantees. A secured party may bid and shall be excused from deposit requirements. The Trustee reserves the right to withdraw any interval from the sale

By authority contained in a Deed of Trust dated January 4, 2006 and recorded in Liber 4621, Folio 66, among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, with an original principal balance of $417,000.00, and an interest rate of 3.500%, default having occurred thereunder, the Substitute Trustees will sell at public auction at the Courthouse door for the Circuit Court for Worcester County, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863, on July 21, 2025 AT 11:00AM

ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE property more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The property being sold is a condominium unit and all common elements appurtenant thereto.

Terms of Sale: The property will be sold “as is” subject to any conditions, restrictions, easements and agreements of record affecting same with no warranty of any kind. A deposit of $38,000.00 by certified funds only (no cash accepted) required at time of auction. Balance of the pur-

LEWIS MCDANIELS, LLC 50 Citizens Way Suite 305 Frederick, Maryland 21701

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

Case No. C-23-CV-25-000160 (TAX SALE)

Insight Real Estate, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. Louis Costen; Ada L. Costen; Worcester County, Maryland; any and all unknown owners of the property and premises situate in Worcester County, Maryland, described as APP 55'X165' 113 ROSS STREET SNOW HILL and being identified on the Tax Roll as Parcel ID: 02-017385, and which may be known as 113 Ross St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, the unknown owner's heirs, devisees, and personal representatives and their or any of their heirs, devisees, executors, administrators, grantees, assigns, or successors in right, title and interest; and, any and all persons that have or claim to have any interest in the property and premises situate in Worcester

SINAN CESUR Plaintiff v. ESTATE OF PAUL MCMANUS

WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

S/O Roscoe R. Leslie, Esq.

STATE OF MARYLAND Office of the Attorney General S/O Anthony Brown, Attorney General

All persons who have or claim to have any interest in the Tax Rolls of the Finance Officer and Collector of State Taxes for WORCESTER COUNTY as follows: 75' X 165' W SIDE PIT CIRCLE RD FRANKTOWN

Defendants IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND CASE NO.: C-23-CV-25-000095

ORDER OF

PUBLICATION

The object of this proceeding is to secure foreclosure of all rights of re-

demption from tax sale on the property known as 75' X 165' W SIDE PIT CIRCLE RD FRANKTOWN, sold by the Finance Officer of WORCESTER COUNTY, State of Maryland, to SINA CESUR, the Plaintiff.

A description of the property in substantially the same form as the description appearing on the Certificate of Tax Sale is as follows: 75' X 165' W SIDE PIT CIRCLE RD FRANKTOWN

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

It is thereupon this 24th of June, 2025, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, ORDERED that notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this Order in some newspaper having a general circulation once a week for three consecutive weeks, warning all persons interested in the property to appear before this Court by the 23rd day of August, 2025, and redeem the property and answer the Complaint or thereafter a final judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property and vesting title to the property in the Plaintiff, free of all liens and encumbrances.

Beau H. Oglesby Judge, Circuit Court for WORCESTER COUNTY

True Copy

Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk at the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-7/3/3t _________________________________

PETER S. BUAS, ESQ. WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON, LLP

3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY

OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20678 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF LARRY J. PIZZA

Notice is given that Kimberly Pizza, 18 East Wind Dr., Berlin, MD 21811-9629, was on June 25, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Larry J. Pizza who died on December 11, 2023, without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 25th day of December, 2025.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

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

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this

published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Kimberly Pizza 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: July 03, 2025

OCD-7/3/3t

JOHN P CUSTIS ESQ

JOHN P CUSTIS, LLC

ATTORNEY AT LAW 1408 S SALISBURY BLVD

SALISBURY, MD 21801-7127

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of JOHN F JONES JR Estate No. 20731 Notice is given that ANN I JONES whose address is 7942 WHITON RD SNOW HILL, MD 21863-3144 was on JUNE 26, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOHN F JONES JR who died on APRIL 22, 2025 with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 26th day of DECEMBER, 2025

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

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

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE

COATES, COATES, & COATES, P.A.

RAYMOND D. COATES JR., ESQ. 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 300

OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 20732

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Circuit Court of Winchester County, Virginia appointed (1) Steven P. Yeatras, 12 140th St., Unit 3, Ocean City, MD 21842-6329 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Pitsa V. Yeatras who died on November 17, 2019 domiciled in Virginia, USA.

The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is (1) Raymond D. Coates, Jr., 6200 Coastal Hwy., Ste. 300, Ocean City, MD 21842-6698.

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

(1) Steven P. Yeatras 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: July 03, 2025

OCD-7/3/3t

BREZA & ASSOCIATES, LLC

ELIZABETH A. GREEN ESQ. 11019 MCCORMICK RD., STE. 400 HUNT VALLEY, MD 21031-1407

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN

PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 20733

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Circuit Court of Palm Beach County, Florida appointed (1) Jay Taustin, 11491 Key Deer Cir., Lake Worth, FL 33449-8450 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Cheryl M. Taustin who died on August 05, 2024 domiciled in Florida, USA.

The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is (1) Elizabeth A. Green, 11019 McCormick Rd., Ste. 400, Hunt Valley, MD 21031-1407.

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.

(1) Jay Taustin

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: July 03, 2025

OCD-7/3/3t

MICHAEL B. MATHERS, ESQ. WEBB, CORNBROOKS, WILBER, FORHIS, DOUSE & MATHERS, LLP P.O. BOX 910 115 BROAD STREET SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20717 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MARTHA JANE ARTHUR

Notice is given that David Stanton, 9 52nd St., Unit 6, Ocean City, MD 21842-3657, was on June 27, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Martha Jane Arthur who died on May 26, 2025, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 27th day of December, 2025.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

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

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is

unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

David Stanton 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: July 03, 2025

OCD-7/3/3t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of DONALD EDWARD GRANT Estate No. 20719 Notice is given that DAVID ALAN GRANT whose address is PO BOX 301, ATLANTIC, VA 23303-0301 was on JUNE 23, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of DONALD EDWARD GRANT who died on JUNE 05, 2025 with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 23rd day of DECEMBER, 2025

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

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

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-7/3/3t

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 20689

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF GEORGE T. ROCHE

AKA: GEORGE THOMAS ROCHE

Notice is given that Kathleen R. Davenport, 1212 Topiary Pl., Vir-

ginia Bch., VA 23455-2268, was on June 24, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of George T. Roche who died on May 18, 2025, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 24th day of December, 2025.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

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

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Kathleen R. Davenport 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: July 03, 2025

OCD-7/3/3t

COATES, COATES, & COATES, P.A.

RAYMOND D. COATES JR., ESQ. 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 20735

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Surrogate’s Court of Morris County, New Jersey appointed (1) Kodsia Najem, 44 Battle Ridge Rd., Morris Plains, NJ 07950-3418; (2) Nazifa Najem Given, P.O. Box 330609, Miami, FL 33233-0609 as the Foreign Personal Representative of the Estate of G. Reza Najem who died on February 04, 2025 domiciled in New Jersey, USA.

The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is (1) Raymond D. Coates, Jr., 6200 Coastal Hwy., Ste. 300, Ocean City, MD 21842-6698; (2) Raymond D. Coates Jr., 6200 Coastal Hwy., Ste. 300, Ocean City, MD 21842-6698.

At the time of death, the decedent

owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: Worcester 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.

(1) Kodsia Najem

(2) Nazifa Najem Given Foreign Personal Representatives 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: July 03, 2025

OCD-7/3/3t

RAYMOND D. COATES JR, ESQ COATES,COATES, & COATES, P.A.

6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of RUBY G HALE Estate No. 20736 Notice is given that SHARON GIDDINGS UNDERWOOD whose address is 11117 BELL RD P O BOX 49 WHALEYVILLE, MD 21872-2004 was on JUNE 30, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of RUBY G HALE who died on JUNE 20, 2025 with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 30th day of DECEMBER, 2025

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

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

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date,

or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-7/3/3t

CHARLES T. CAPUTE ESQ MCALLISTER, DE TAR, SHOWALTER & WALKER LLC 100 N. WEST STREET EASTON, MD 21601-2710

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of JOHN OLIVER SMITH JR Estate No. 20737 Notice is given that BRIAN SMITH whose address is 9407 SHOCKLEY RD BISHOPVILLE, MD 21813-1410 was on JUNE 30, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOHN OLIVER SMITH JR who died on MAY 30, 2025 with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 30th day of DECEMBER, 2025

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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-7/3/3t

COATES, COATES, & COATES, P.A.

RAYMOND D. COATES JR., ESQ. 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE

ESTATE NO. 20741

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Register of Wills court of Adams County, Pennsylvania appointed (1) Lori K.

Edwards, 78 Carrolls Tract Rd., Fairfield, PA 17320-9439 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Larry E. Edwards who died on April 02, 2025 domiciled in Pennsylvania, USA.

The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is (1) Raymond D. Coates Jr., 6200 Coastal Hwy., Ste. 300, Ocean City, MD 21842-6698.

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

(1) Lori K. Edwards 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: July 10, 2025

OCD-7/10/3t

CHRISTOPHER T WOODLEY ESQ

WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON

3509 COASTAL HWY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3334

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of FRANK J PALUMBO SR Estate No. 20742 Notice is given that TERIANN HAMMOND whose address is 10310 HOTEL RD BISHOPVILLE, MD 21813-1238 was on JULY 03, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of FRANK J PALUMBO SR who died on JUNE 27, 2025 with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 3rd day of JANUARY, 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-7/10/3t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20720 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF BERNICE MAGNONE

Notice is given that Leah Magnone, 500 S. 2nd St., Denton, MD 21629-1405, was on June 30, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Bernice Magnone who died on May 22, 2025, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 30th day of December, 2025.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

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

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Leah Magnone 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: July 10, 2025

Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland

PROPOSAL SOLICITATION

B01-26 – Eagles Landing Golf Course Flood Remediation

The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Eagles Landing Golf Course Flood Remediation and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.

BID Documents for the Eagles Landing Golf Course Flood Remediation 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 Proposal Document received through any thirdparty service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.

A Pre-BID Meeting will be conducted on TUESDAY, JULY 22ND, 2025, AT 8:00AM AT EAGLES LANDING GOLF COURSECLUBHOUSE. Pre-BID Meeting attendance is mandatory for Vendors intending to submit BID proposals for consideration. The Town of Ocean City will additionally provide a virtual attendance option, via Zoom, to Vendors unable to attend the Pre-BID Meeting in person. A site survey shall immediately follow the Pre-BID Meeting. The last day for questions will be on MONDAY, AUGUST 4TH, 2025 AT 3:00PM. Addendum will be posted by close of business on TUESDAY, AUGUST 5TH, 2025. Sealed BID Documents are due no later than MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 8TH, 2025, BY 4:00PM. 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, SEPTEMBER 9TH, 2025, AT 1:00PM. BID’s are to be submitted to the Mayor and City Council, Attention: City Clerk; Room 230, 301 North Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (B01-26 – Eagles Landing Golf Course Flood Remediation) 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.

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WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON

CHRISTOPHER T. WOODLEY

ESQ. 3509 COASTAL HWY. OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3334

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 20743

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Probate And Family court of Norfolk County, Massachusetts appointed (1) Jennifer Costa, 58 Captain Courtois Dr., Attleboro, MA 02703-8157 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Ralph James Hyde who died on June 23, 2022 domiciled in Massachusetts, USA.

The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is (1) Christopher T. Woodley, 3509 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, MD 21842-3334.

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.

(1) Jennifer Costa 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: July 10, 2025

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PROPOSAL SOLICITATION

Outdoor Warning Siren System Upgrade

Worcester County is seeking proposals from qualified Vendors to perform an upgrade to the existing outdoor warning siren system in conformity with the requirements contained herein Proposal Documents. Proposal Documents for the above referenced project may be obtained from the Worcester County Commissioner’s Office by either e-mailing the Procurement Officer, Nicholas Rice, at nrice@co.worcester.md.us or 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 Proposal 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 Proposal Documents.

A pre-proposal conference will be held on Friday, July 18, 2025, at 9:30 am at the Government Center located at 1 West Market Street –Room 1103, Snow Hill, MD 21863. The last day for questions will be noon on Wednesday, July 30, 2025. Sealed Proposal Documents are due no later than 2:30 pm on Thursday, August 7, 2025, and will be opened, and only vendor names will be read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863.

Late Proposal Documents will not be accepted.

Envelopes shall be marked "Proposal Solicitation – Outdoor Warning Siren System Upgrade”, in the lower left-hand corner.

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

Nicholas W. Rice, CPPO, CPPB, NIGP-CPP Procurement Officer Worcester County, Maryland OCD-7/10/3t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of LLOYD J. ROUNDS Estate No. 20708 Notice is given that LORISSA S. ROUNDS whose address is 407 TALAMORE CT., SALISBURY, MD 21804-2431, KAREN Y. LEWIS whose address is 523 STOCKBRIDGE CT., SALISBURY, MD 21804-5252 were on JULY 02, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of LLOYD J. ROUNDS who died on JUNE 03, 2025 without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 2nd day of JANUARY, 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 cred-

itor 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 PUBLIC HEARING BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS

TOWN OF OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110 of the Code of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Zoning Ordinance for Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted by the Board of Zoning Appeals for Ocean City, Maryland in the Council Chambers of City Hall located on Baltimore Avenue and Third Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on:

Thursday, July 24, 2025

AT 6:00 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an application has been filed under Sections 110-94(3)(a) and 11094(3)(b) to request (1) a special yard exception for a proposed dwelling to be 3.3 feet from the front lot line (2) a special yard exception for steps of a proposed dwelling to be 1.7 feet from the front lot line; and (3) a special yard exception for a proposed storage shed to be 3.4 feet from the rear lot line. The property is described as Lot 36 of the Sundowner Mobile Home Park Plat. It is further described as being located on the north side of Marine Circle and is locally known as 125 Marine Circle, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: ANDREW SWINDER (BZA 2724 #2509400008)

AT 6:10 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an application has been filed under Section 110-94(3)(a) for (1) a special yard exception for a proposed habitable attic to be constructed to the legally nonconforming front yard setback of 2.0 feet from the front lot line along Coastal Highway; and (2) a special yard exception for a proposed habitable attic to be built to the legally nonconforming side yard setback of 3.0 feet from a side lot line. The property is described as Lots 156A and 156B of the Sundowner Mobile Home Park Plat. It is located on the west side of Coastal Highway between Denny Lane and Bea Lane and is locally known as 100 Denny Lane in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: CHRIS CAULK (BZA 2725 #25-09400009) AT 6:20 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an application has been filed under Section 110-94(3)(a) for (1) a special yard exception for a proposed hotel to be built to a legally nonconforming front yard setback of 22 feet from the front property line along Atlantic Avenue, the Boardwalk. The property is described as Tax Map 110, Parcel 2853, Lot 12; Parcel 2854, Lot 11; Parcel 2864, Lot 2; and Parcel 2865, Lot 1, Block 7N of the Sinepuxent Bay Company Plat. It is further described as being located on the corner of Atlantic Avenue (the Boardwalk) and the south side of 7th Street and is locally known as the The Majestic Hotel located at 613 Atlantic Avenue in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: JOSEPH E. MOORE, ESQUIRE (BZA 2726 #25-09400010)

Further information concerning the public hearings may be examined in the office of the Department of Planning and Community Development in City Hall.

Christopher Rudolf, Chairman Maureen Howarth, Attorney OCD-7/10/2t

CYNTHIA B. MACDONALD ESQ

208 CALVERT ST P. O. BOX 33 SALISBURY, MD 21803

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of GAIL D JANKOWSKI Estate No. 20748 Notice is given that JOSEPH A JANKOWSKI JR whose address is 11112 SPRING BRANCH LN BERLIN, MD 218113255 was on JULY 08, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of GAIL D JANKOWSKI who died on MARCH 12, 2025 with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 8th day of JANUARY, 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 Self Storage Sale

Please take notice Main Street Storage located at 9842 Main Street, Berlin, MD, 21811 intends to hold a public sale to the highest bidder of the property stored by the following tenants for default on their Storage Contracts. The sale will occur as an online auction via www.lockerfox.com on 7/23/2025 at 10:00AM. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Certain terms and conditions apply.

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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20747 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF HENRY MELVIN HAGWOOD

Notice is given that Laurie H. Parker, 115 Fox Knoll Ln., West Chester, PA 19380-7206, was on July 07, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Henry Melvin Hagwood who died on June 01, 2025, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 7th day of January, 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.

Laurie H. Parker 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: July 17, 2025

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LAW OFFICE OF SHAWN VINSON, LLC

SHAWN VINSON

1740 E. JOPPA RD., STE. LL6 PARKVILLE, MD 21234-3667

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE

ESTATE NO. 20725

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Surrogate of the Court of Hunterdon County, New Jersey appointed (1) Barbara Tutela, 242 Highway 12, Flemington, NJ 08822-4015 as the Executrix of the Estate of Lawrence A. Tutela Sr. who died on July 22, 2005 domiciled in New Jersey, USA.

The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is (1) Shawn Vinson, 1740 E. Joppa Rd., Ste. LL6, Parkville, MD 21234-3667.

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

All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:

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

(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

(1) Barbara Tutela 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: July 17, 2025

OCD-7/17/3t

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES

ESTATE NO. 20744

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the COMMON PLEAS court of YORK COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA appointed (1) SETH MILLER whose address is 2003 W. MARKET ST., YORK, PA 17404-5508, (2) MARELLA MILLER whose address is 12322 LOU ST., BISHOPVILLE, MD 21813-1105, (3) BRITTANY CRIST whose address is 839 MARYLAND AVE., YORK, PA 17404-3135, (4) MELANIE MILLER whose address is 3336 RACOON CT., ABINGDON, MD 21009-2612 as the PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE of the Estate

of LAURA LEE MILLER who died on FEBRUARY 14, 2022 domiciled in MD. The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is (1) MELANIE MILLER whose address is 3336 RACOON CT., ABINGDON, MD 21009-2612, (3) MELANIE MILLER whose address is 3336 RACOON CT., ABINGTON, MD 21009-2612. 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-7/17/3t

ALISHA L. JACOBSEN, ESQ.

11 N. WASHINGTON ST., STE. 520 ROCKVILLE,MD 20850-4265

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20751 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF GARY M. STEVENS

Notice is given that Danny M. Stevens, 1324 W. Byron St., Apt. 2, Chicago, IL 60613-2868, was on July 14, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Gary M. Stevens who died on June 03, 2025, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 14th day of January, 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 cred-

itor 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.

Danny M. Stevens 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: July 17, 2025

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MICHAEL B. MATHERS ESQ. WEBB, CORNBROOKS, WILBER, VORHIS, DOUSE & MATHERS, LLP

P.O. BOX 910 115 BROAD STREET SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of JOHN COLCORD Estate No. 20750 Notice is given that COLLEEN M. HAHN whose address is 321 N. MAIN ST., BERLIN, MD 21811-1005 was on JULY 14, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOHN COLCORD who died on JUNE 02, 2025 without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 14th day of JANUARY, 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-7/17/3t

RONALD B. GREENE

LAW OFFICES OF RONALD B. GREENE

4500 FORBES BLVD., STE. 200 LANHAM, MD 20706-6316

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20752 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF GARY R. MURRAY

AKA: GARY RAYMOND MURRAY

Notice is given that Dara G. Murray, 23 Bearberry Rd., Berlin, MD 21811-2049, was on July 14, 2025 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Gary R. Murray who died on April 13, 2025, with a will.

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

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

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

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

Dara G. Murray 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 17, 2025

OCD-7/17/1t

Business license changes proposed after nuisance

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(July 17, 2025) The Berlin Mayor and Council reviewed a potential ordinance that could revoke businesses licenses from town establishments if their operation creates a risk or nuisance for residents and visitors. The draft will have its first reading at an upcoming Town Council meeting.

At a Town of Berlin Mayor and Council meeting on Monday, July 14, David Gaskill, attorney for the municipality, presented a draft ordinance that if adopted, could allow the town to refuse to grant, suspend or revoke, or place restrictions on licenses obtained by businesses operating within the Town of Berlin limits on the basis the establishment is creating a hazard to Berlin residents and visitors.

The draft reads, “the right is reserved to the Mayor and Council to refuse to grant any license, to suspend or revoke any license previously granted or to place appropriate restrictions on any license which is determined by the Mayor and Council, after notice and opportunity for a hearing, to be detrimental to or to adversely affect the health, safety,

morals, peace, comfort, and general welfare of the surrounding properties and residents and/or the public in general.”

Gaskill said that issues that may warrant the Town Council taking action, such as revoking a business license, could include excessive noise, excessive traffic, loitering outside the establishment during or after business hours, trash accumulation, and disorderly conduct, among others.

The attorney noted that, through conversations he had with Berlin Town Administrator Mary Bohlen and Planning Director Ryan Hardesty, they concluded that such an ordinance would likely never be exercised. Still, it's essential to have in the rare instance it's needed. Berlin’s governing group agreed.

“That's a good thing, to have it on the books and never need it,” Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall said. “That’s a good place to be … Hopefully, we never have to use it, but at least if we can sit down with a party and say, ‘hey look, this is the path we’re headed down. We don’t want to go there.”

The Berlin Mayor and Council tasked Gaskill with drafting the ordi-

Town officials hoping revoke option remains unnecessary

nance following a concerning situation in town involving the railbike excursion company, Tracks and Yaks. In April, for at least the third time, town residents came forward at a public council meeting, citing concerns with the operation.

Adam Davis, owner of Berlin Beer Company on Broad Street, said that the railbike group does not have restrooms for guests or staff. As such, these individuals were using his restaurant's facilities, straining the business. Tracks and Yaks customers were also parking in spots designated for Berlin Beer Company, which already has limited spaces, Davis added. Other Berlin residents came forward at that April meeting, claiming that Tracks and Yaks employees were smoking marijuana in their cars and loitering on the streets.

When the problems were first brought to light, the railbike excursion operated in such a way that guests were directed to Broad Street in Berlin for the activity, which exacerbated the nuisance issues there and

on the nearby Baker Street. Now, when customers register, they are given a West Ocean City address and are then bussed to the railroad. This has seemed to lessen the company’s burden on the town.

While some residents claim that the business continues to generate excessive traffic in Berlin, even with the new shuttle system, the majority of concerns, such as loitering, lack of restroom facilities, and trash accumulation, appear to have decreased.

“The situation is pretty much quelled right now on Baker Street,” Councilman Steve Green said. “[This ordinance] has come to be unnecessary today, but in the future, as certain instances arise, it is a good tool to have in our toolbox, but I hope it’s never used and probably will not be.”

Monday night’s review of the ordinance was simply a discussion. The draft will have its first official reading at the Berlin Mayor and Council’s next meeting, on July 28 at 6 p.m.

Greek Festival returns to OC next weekend, July 25-27

(July 18, 2025) Next weekend, July 25-27, St. George’s Greek Orthodox Church will be serving "all things Greek” for three full days of traditional food and entertainment at the Roland Powell Convention Center, 40th Street and Coastal Highway.

Free admission is offered with hours on Friday, July 25, noon-10 p.m.; Saturday, July 26, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; and Sunday, July 27, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Give yourself permission to overindulge in your favorite Greek delights as the parishioners of St. George’s will be cooking and serving mouthwatering favorites such as: Souvlaki, Spanakopita, Dolmathes, Tiropitas, Pastitio, Mousaka, Lamb Shanks, Greek Lemon Chicken, and world famous Loukomathes (Greek donut puffs soaked in honey and cinnamon sugar).

Local residents and visitors are in-

vited to have a leisurely meal and treat yourself to unique gifts from vendors offering a variety of specialty and handmade items.

Then put your dancing shoes on and “opa” your way around the dance floor to the authentic Greek music of Golden Flame from Washington, DC who will be performing Friday and Saturday, July 25 and 26, 1-7 p.m. and Sunday, July 27, at 2 p.m.

A press release for the event said, “St. George’s Greek Orthodox Church’s festival, not only raises necessary operational funds but also strengthens the Church’s role as a vital and vibrant part of the community. Our ‘little Church by the sea’ welcomes all who visit Ocean City most especially our Eastern Orthodox young adults who come each year to support the small businesses that make Ocean City such a special vacation destination.”

Who’s Where When

BURLEY OAK BREWING COMPANY

443-513-4647

10016 Old Ocean City Blvd., Berlin

Sat., July 19: Better Off Dead (Ticket Event)

BUXY’S SALTY DOG & DRY DOCK 28

410-289-BUXY

28th Street Coastal Hwy.

Fri., July 18: Matt Tichon

Sat., July 19: Muskrat Lightning

Sundays: Local Party w/ DJ Deogee

Wednesday: Karaoke w/ DJ 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 18: True Country & Silver Heart

Sat., July 19: Lime Green & Royal Flush

Sun., July 20: Rogue Citizens & TBA

Mon., July 21: DJ Wax & Johnny Cardo

Tues., July 22: Shane Gamble & Dust N Bones

Wed., July 23: Endless Summer Duo & Nick Hundley

Thurs., July 24: Lost Figures & Rogue Citizens

COCONUTS BEACH BAR

410-289-6846

Oceanfront At Castle

In The Sand Hotel 37th & 38th Streets

Fri., July 18: Darin Engh & Royal Flush Band

Sat., July 19: True Country & Top Dead Center

Sun., July 20: Margot & Val & Colossal Fossil Sauce

Mon., July 21: Matt Tichon Solo & Fil Rhythm Duo

Tues., July 22: Johnny Cardo & All The Vibes Duo

Wed., July 23: Chris Diller Solo & Beach Bandits

Thurs., July 24: Kevin Poole Solo & The Lauren Glick Band

COINS PUB

410-289-3100

28th Street Plaza On Coastal Hwy.

Fri., July 18: Dust N Bones

Sat., July 19: Jim Long Party & First Class

Tues., July 22: Karaoke

Thurs., July 24: DJ Wax

CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE

302-988-5000

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

Sun., July 20: Uncle Ward

Wed., July 23: Cup Of Joe

CRAWL STREET TAVERN

443-373-2756

Wicomico St., Downtown O.C.

Fri., July 18: Johnny Cardo

Sat., July 19: Mercury Agenda

FAGER’S ISLAND

410-524-5500

60th St., In The Bay

Fri., July 18: Denin N Lace, DJ RobCee & Jumper

Sat., July 19: Other Brother Darryl, DJ Vibe & Almost Creed

Sun., July 20: The 1974 & DJ Wax

Mon., July 21: DJ Wax, The 1974, DJ Dnial & Decade 80

Tues., July 22: DJ RobCee, Bryan Clark & EDM Night

Wed., July 23: The Otto Grundman Band & Latin Night

Thurs., July 24: DJ Groove & Full Circle

Best Beats On The Beach

HOMETOWN RADIO

Seacrets: Friday & Saturday, July 18 & 19

MARGOT & VAL

Coconuts Beach Bar: Sunday, July 20

MERCURY AGENDA

Crawl Street Tavern: Saturday, July 19

SCHIZOPHRENIC BOOGIEMEN The Wedge: Tuesday, July 22

FLUSH

Coconuts Beach Bar: Friday, July 18

Caribbean Pool Bar: Saturday, July 19

FIRST CLASS

Coins Pub: Saturday, July 19

Jolly Jellyfish Beach Club: Mondays

FULL CIRCLE

Seacrets: Wednesday, July 23 (Duo)

Fager’s Island: Thursday, July 24

OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS

Harborside: Sundays

Fish Tales: Tuesday, July 22

Who’s Where When

FISH TAILS

410-289-0990

22nd St., & Bay

Sun., July 20: Lauren Glick

Tues., July 22: Opposite Directions

Wednesdays: DJ Wax

Thurs., July 24: Joe Wood

GREENE TURTLE WEST

410-213-1500

Route 611, West OC

Sat., July 19: AJ Fox & Charlie Travers

HARBORSIDE

410-213-1846

South Harbor Rd., West End O.C.

Fridays: DJ Billy T

Sat., July 19: Cecilia’s Fall & DJ Bigler

Sundays: Opposite Directions & Wayne Blake

Wednesdays: DJ Billy T

Thursdays: Dust N Bones

JOLLY JELLYFISH BEACH CLUB 443-664-6147

98th Street Coastal Hwy., Plaza Condominium

Fri., July 18: Lennon LaRicci & The Leftovers

Sat., July 19: Identity Crisis

Sun., July 20: Homeskool Dropouts

Mondays: First Class

Tuesdays: Lost Figures

Wednesdays: Joe Mama & The Friends

Thursdays: Beach Bandits

PICKLES PUB

410-289-4891

8th St. & Philadelphia Ave.

Fri., July 18: Big West & Aaron Wolf

Sat., July 19: Rockstead

Sundays: Beats By Styler

Mondays: Karaoke w/ Wood

Tuesdays: Beats By Wax

Wednesdays: Beats By Madame Dutchess

Thurs., July 24: Joey Harkum Band

PURPLE MOOSE SALOON 410-289-6953

Between Caroline & Talbot Sts. On The Boards

Fri., & Sat., July 18 & 19: Surreal Sat., July 19: Fox & Travers (2pm) Sun., July 20: Steve O’Boyle (2pm) & Tunnels End (10pm)

Wednesdays: Balkan Party w/ DJ Papi

SEACRETS

410-524-4900

49th St. & Coastal Hwy.

Fri, July 18: 5 DJs, Hometown Radio, The Way Outs & Turning The Tide

Sat., July 19: 6 DJs, The Pop Rocks, Hometown Radio, The Way Outs & Kristen & The Noise

Sun., July 20: 4 DJs, South Penn Dixie & Lost In Paris

Mon., July 21: 2 DJs, Blake Haley & Ryan & Friends

Tues., July 22: 3 DJs, John McNutt Duo & Steal The Sky

Wed., July 23: 2 DJs, Full Circle Duo, Cherry Crush Band & Bombargo (Ticket Event)

Thurs., July 24: 3 DJs, Faith Noel & Go Go Gadjet

THE WEDGE 410-289-5121

806 S. Atlantic Ave.

Sun., July 20: Jason Lee

Mon., July 21: Lauren Glick

Tues., July 22: Schizophrenic Boogiemen

Wed., July 23: Kasey Briggs & Charlie Travers

Thurs., July 24: Joe Esham

ROYAL

JOEY HARKUM BAND

Pickles Pub: Thursday, July 24

BIG WEST & AARON WOLF

Pickles Pub: Friday, July 18

Dining Guide

■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$

■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted

DOWNTOWN

South end to 28th Street

■ BUXY’S SALTY DOG SALOON

DRY DOCK 28

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

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

■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

American style local restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 25:30 p.m. Sunday’s early bird specials, all day and all night. Happy Hour; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. with food and drink specials. Open Monday through Friday, 2 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 11:30 a.m. Dine-in, carry out.

■ CORAL REEF RESTAURANT & BAR

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ CRAWL STREET

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

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

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

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

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

■ FISH TALES

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

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

■ HARBOR WATCH

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

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

Celebrating our 41st anniversary 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. Monday through Wednesday open at 4 p.m. Thursday through Sunday open at 11:30 a.m. Call for banquet and large-party details.

■ PICKLES PUB

706 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 410-2894891, picklesoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Easy to find with plenty of free parking, serving lunch, dinner and entire diverse menu until 1 a.m. Also nightly entertainment year-round and a great place to watch all the sports on an ocean of televisions including a giant high-def screen. Also four pool tables on site. Lunch and dinner and entire menu until 1 a.m. Open all year from 11:30 a.m.-2 a.m., seven days a week.

■ PIT & PUB

2706 Philadelphia Ave. and 12701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, pitandpub.com

Ocean City’s home of Pulled Pork and the finest barbecue, the legendary 28th Street Pit & Pub and the Northside Pit & Pub are known for serving up delicious smokehouse specialties. Grab a brew and enjoy the live sports action on one of the big screen TVs. Happy hour daily. Familyfriendly atmospheres at both locations. Weekend entertainment.

■ 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 10 p.m.

MIDTOWN

29th to 90th streets

■ 32 PALM

32nd Street in The Hilton, Ocean City 410-2892525, 32palm.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Elevated cuisine, locally sourced ingredients and allocated spirits are prominently featured in our lounge and dining room. Open year-round for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Routinely updated menus with the highest quality local ingredients for fresh seafood any time of the year!

■ THE BONFIRE

71st Street, Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, 410-5247171, thebonfirerestaurant.com

Celebrating more than 50 years as the best seafood and prime rib buffet in Ocean City. It’s all here – the service, the atmosphere and finest, freshest seafood available and quality meats. Save room for the decadent desserts available as well including homemade donuts.

■ COCONUTS BEACH BAR & GRILL

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

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

■ FAGERS ISLAND

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

$$ | Full bar

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

■ HOOKED

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

A Common Ground Hospitality concept, a passion driven restaurant group servicing the coastal community. The goal is honor creativity and innovation by design. With passion at the heart of everything, unique dining concepts are paired with honest hospitality and well-made food sourced with fresh local ingredients and seasonal harvests. Craft and full bar available. Open daily 11:30 a.m.

■ LONGBOARD CAFÉ

6701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 443-6645693, longboardcafe.com

$$-$$$ | Full bar

Casual Dining … Refined. Open for lunch and dinner. A wide range of gourmet burgers, 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, 410-2502000, albertinosoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ CAROUSEL OCEANFRONT HOTEL & CONDOS

118th Street, Ocean City 800-641-0011, www.carouselhotel.com

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

■ THE CRAB BAG

13005 Coastal Highway Ocean City, 410-2503337, thecrabbag.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Featuring consistent hot steamed crabs, eat in or carryout. The Crab Bag is also an Eastern Shore style seafood house specializing in preparing and serving the biggest and the best blue crabs available. The extensive menu promises something for everyone. Winter hours, Friday-Sunday, open 11 a.m.

■ CRABCAKE FACTORY USA

120th Street, oceanside, Ocean City, 410-2504900, crabcakefactoryusa.com

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

■ JOLLY JELLYFISH BEACH CLUB

9800 Coastal Highway, Ocean City 443-6646147, jollyjellyfishbeachclub.com

Oceanfront bar with casual island style outdoor dining with awesome ocean views focused on cool beach vibes. Open for lunch and dinner and suitable for the entire family. Diverse menu available for every type of diner and featuring a cocktail menu with six housemade kegged cocktails. Every Sunday all summer features a “big deck energy party.” Entertainment daily, 4-7 p.m. Located in the Plaza Condominium with plenty of free parking.

■ VISTA ROOFTOP RESTAURANT

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

$$-$$$ | Full bar

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

FENWICK ISLAND

■ CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE

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

Same award-winning crab cakes and bloody marys. Enjoy waterfront dining. Full-service family restaurant, carry-out & sports bar. Outside seating available. Open daily year-round. Menu selections include crab cakes, prime rib, Philly-style

cheese steaks, various seafood, kids menu plus full breakfast menu.

■ DIRTY HARRY’S 100 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island, DE, 302539-3020, Beach-net.com/dirtyharrys

$ | Kids’ Menu | Full bar

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

■ NANTUCKETS

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

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

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

Reservations | Kids’ Menu

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

WEST OCEAN CITY

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

■ DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND

West Ocean City: Route 50 east; Boardwalk locations: 501 S. Philadelphia Ave., 49th Street, 123rd Street, Ocean City, dumsersdairyland.com

This classic ice cream shop is a tradition for many families. Voted O.C.’s “Best Ice Cream” for the past 20 years, Dumser’s is celebrating decades of serving the shore, and the ‘40s-style décor takes you back in time. With locations throughout Ocean City, treating your tastebuds to this signature homemade ice cream is easy. The 123rd Street location offers lunch and dinner menus in addition to a wide variety of ice cream treats.

■ GREENE TURTLE WEST

Route 611, West Ocean City, 410-213-1500

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

■ HARBORSIDE BAR & GRILL

12841 Harbor Rd., West Ocean City, 410-2131846, weocharborside.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Home of the original Orange Crush drink with an extensive menu offers a wide variety of appetizers, fresh seafood, steak & pasta entrees, as well as juicy burgers and sandwiches. Whether seeking a full dining experience or just a crush or two, the team will be sure to take excellent care of you and yours. Monday-Wednesday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thursday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. ■ OC DINER 12744 Ocean Gateway, Rt 50 east, Ocean City, 410-390-5112

Family owned for over 25 years. Serving the best homemade breakfast, lunch and dinner. Free salad bar with delicious dinner. Local’s favorite. Breakfast served all day. Kids’ menu. Dine-in and carry-out. Open 7 days a week: Sunday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m

UPTOWN 91st to 146th streets

Rip currents: Know the risk, learn best way for escape

By Kristin Joson Contributing Writer

To understand how to escape a rip current it is important to understand what causes rip currents. Rip currents occur when water that comes into the beach by wave action and wind needs to make its way back out. Because a sand bar runs the length of Ocean City (a barrier island), water that has come over the sand bar needs to make its way back out. Because wave action continues to bring water over the sandbar, the water has difficulty going out against the incoming flow. Water will take the path of least resistance and find a lower spot along the sandbar to become the natural path for the flow of the water. As more water comes across the sandbar the volume in the trough (water trapped between the beach and sandbar) increases and this additional volume of water causes an increasingly greater volume of water to flow through this path. As water flows along this path, it will move sand and create a deep underwater channel from the shoreline through the sandbar. As waves break near the beach, they cause a change in bathometry (the contour of

See RIP Page 70

(July 18, 2025) At this time of year, you’ll often hear local media mention the dangers of rip currents. These powerful currents are commonly and incorrectly called “rip tides.” While tides are caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and sun and change roughly every six hours, a rip current is simply water moving swiftly away from the beach and out to sea. Unlike the littoral currents (which move parallel to the shore), rip currents pull water, swimmers and anything in the “rip” directly away from land. This makes them especially dangerous. In fact, someone standing in waist-deep water can be swept into deeper water in seconds. This action not only accounts for how unsuspecting bathers and people that never intended to go out further than their waist, are pulled into water that is over their heads. It also is responsible for creating the telltale signs that identify a rip current to the trained eye. As waves break and stir up the sandy bottom and create foam this discolored water and foam are carried away from the shore clearly marking the location of a rip current.

Rip currents do not pull swimmers under

the ocean bottom), which causes a constant change in the sandbar and thus rip current locations and severity are constantly changing. Rips can open at any given time, sometimes referred to as “Flash Rips”. Just last week I was out swimming, and I could see little rips opening up where just minutes before there weren’t any in the area where I was swimming. It was a rough, choppy day and the sandbar was being broken away. Another factor that has an influence on the frequency and severity of rip current activity is water depth, which is directly related to changing tides. Therefore, rip current risk may be reported as moderate at 1 pm and become high at 4 pm. The Ocean City Beach Patrol provides rip current assessments to

NOAA 3 times each day. We have also worked directly with scientists to understand rip currents and how to help them better forecast and predict them. Rip currents do not pull a person under water as a lot of people believe. It is the deep channel cut into the sandbar that gives the impression that a swimmer maybe pulled down. What is happening is a non-swimmer who intended to remain only in waste deep water is being moved by the rip current into increasingly deeper water channel. Since they cannot swim, they try to stand on the bottom or bounce to keep their head above water and as they move away from the shore the water becomes over their head, and they are no longer able to keep their head above water. Therefore, a person watching from the beach

may think that what they believe they are seeing is a person being pulled under. In fact, it is a non-swimmer who does not have the ability to keep their head above water. If this occurs while the beach patrol is on duty, the lifeguard will simply assist the person back to safety. However, if this occurs while lifeguards are not on duty, the outcome could be deadly (over 98% of all drowning deaths in Ocean City over the past 90 years have occurred when the Beach Patrol was NOT on duty and most of those are also RIP current related).

ally they become so fatigued that they are no longer able to keep their head above water and once they slip below the water’s surface and are no longer able to get air, they become unconscious and only have moments before they become a statistic.

You may believe that only non-swimmers drown because of rip currents while many rip current drowning victims had moderate to good swimming ability. This brings up the question, why would a person who knows how to swim, drown? The answer is simple. Panic, fatigue, and lack of ocean awareness all contribute to the outcome. A rip current is very much like a treadmill. As water is flowing away from the beach, a swimmer attempting to swim straight in will make little or no progress against this outgoing current. Since a rip current may flow faster than an Olympic swimmer (like Michael Phelps) can swim, swimming against this current only causes a person in this situation to become fatigued while getting no closer to the beach. Eventu-

In contrast, a swimmer or someone with a flotation device can easily escape the pull of the rip. By nature, a typical rip current is not very wide, usually 20 yards at most which means that a person who is being pulled out can swim out of the rip after just a few swimming strokes. Also, once the rip current flows through the cut in the sandbar the pull disperses and the current no longer continues to pull you away from shore. With these facts in mind if you find yourself being pulled away from shore, do not panic simply swim parallel to shore and once you no longer feel the pull of the rip, swim back into shore. To help escape the “grip” of the RIP swim with the littoral current (north or south), so before you go swimming take time to study the water and know which direction you would want to swim out of the RIP. If you feel you are unable to swim across the rip relax, let it take you out to the sandbar and then swim back to shore. Whatever you do, never abandon a flotation device, and always signal the life-

Relax, help, parallel key words

guard if you want their assistance. In most cases they will already be on their way to assist you back to safety. Even our lifeguards will not attempt to swim straight in against a rip current. They use their knowledge of the ocean to swim parallel to the beach until they are out of the rip current and then make their way back into safety with a victim in tow holding onto the buoy that the SRT has handed them as a flotation device to keep them above water. If you can remember the word RIP then you can remember what to do to save your life

R = Relax: Stay calm and conserve energy. You’re not being pulled under, just out.

I = I need help: Wave and yell to attract attention.

P = Parallel: Swim parallel to the shoreline until you're out of the current, then swim back in.

We encourage all beachgoers to swim only when lifeguards are on duty (10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.; ask a lifeguard about the current conditions; and check the rip current diagram on the back of every lifeguard stand.

The drone image shows a visible rip current near 14th Street, taken during an educational talk following multiple rescues.

Crispy crab fritters with dip sauce

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer

(July 18, 2025) What do Routes 50, 54, and 90 have in common?

These roadways are packed with vacationers anticipating a fantastic time in Ocean City, Maryland.

OC’s famous boardwalk, amusement parks, sparking ocean, and mouthwatering food are just a few of the merriments that brings millions of tourists to the island every year.

But if one were to ask locals and sightseers what is the most notorious food of this popular resort; the blue crab would win hands down. The succulent, tender meat is absolutely scrumptious and is also one of the most sought-after shellfish in the Mid-Atlantic region.

The sweet delicacy is also quite expensive. Fritters are an economical way to showcase the meat and still highlight its delicious taste.

Details are what distinguishes one chef from another and creates individualism. Let us take a closer look at a crispy crab fritter and the choices one faces when making this recipe.

The crab meat is your first consideration. Claw or jumbo lump are your best options. Both classifications allow one to taste the true essence of crab. If you use regular crab meat, it will break down in the batter and one will find themselves saying, “where is the crab meat?”

The breading is another subject that needs to be addressed. Flour, crushed crackers, pancake batter, and cake flour are popular options.

Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix with flour and baking soda produces a light, sweet consistency that enhances the crab meat and still allows the crab meat to be the star of the fritter.

Sauteed bell peppers, parsley, scallions, celery, and corn add variance and at the same time give the dish depth of flavor.

Once the fritters are formed into the desired shape, place them on a sheet pan lined with wax paper and freeze for 30 minutes. This step helps the fritters cohesiveness, and will make the dredging process easier. It will also ensure a crispier exterior.

After frying the fritters, place them on a cooling rack. Do not place on a plate lined with paper towels. There is nothing worse than developing a crunchy crust and have it sitting on soggy paper towels. Your efforts will be nullified immediately.

Crispy fried fritters need a dipping sauce. Your choices are endless but a smoky, spicy chipotle mayo is a great option. The following recipe is easy to make and can be made in advance which puts this sauce at the top of the list.

Company is coming and you need an appetizer that will wow them and showcase the Eastern Shore blue crab without breaking the piggy bank, consider crab fritters with chipotle

mayo dipping sauce. Trust me, this recipe is a keeper. Enjoy!

Crispy crab fritters with chipotle mayo dipping sauce

Chipotle Mayo Dipping Sauce

1 ¼ cup mayonnaise

¼ cup stone-ground mustard

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

½ teaspoon prepared horseradish

2 to 3 teaspoons adobe sauce

(taken from 7-ounce can of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce)

1. Using a medium size bowl, combine ingredients until fully mixed. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use.

Crab Fritters

1 pound jumbo lump crab meat or crab claw meat

1 cup Jiffy corn muffin mix

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

¾ cup half-and-half

1 egg

1/3 cup finely sliced scallions

¼ cup red bell pepper, finely chopped

¼ cup corn, finely chopped

¼ cup celery, finely chopped

¼ teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning

¼ teaspoon kosher salt

½ teaspoon garlic powder

1 rounded tablespoon fresh parsley

3 tablespoons canola oil

1. In a small bowl, combine Jiffy corn muffin mix, flour, and baking powder.

2. In a small bowl, combine egg and cream.

3. In a small pan, saute vegetables for about 5 minutes. Strain for any

leftover juices and oil.

4. In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients except for crab and mix well. When thoroughly combined, using your hands, gently fold in crab meat with filling.

5. Roll mixture into small balls and place in the freezer for 30 minutes.

Batter Station

2 eggs

2 teaspoons water

2 cups flour, divided 2 cups unseasoned panko

1 cup corn meal canola oil for frying

1. In a large cast iron skillet, heat oil over medium high heat.

2. Combine egg and water in a small bowl.

3. Place 1 cup flour in a pie plate. Place remaining 1 cup flour, 1 cup cornmeal, and panko in another pie plate and mix well.

4. Dip each cold crab ball into the flour, then egg wash, and then into the panko mixture. Gently lower into oil and cook until both sides are golden brown. Place crab fritters on a cooling rack. Add a light dusting of kosher salt.

5. Serve immediately with chipotle mayo.

* When forming the fritters, I like to create different shapes. It is more pleasing to the eye. Fritters are comfort food and this is one time where perfection is not advised.

Secret Ingredient – Knowledge We know what we are, but know not what we might be.

— William Shakespeare

DIAKONIA RECEIVES DONATION

The Ocean City Elks Lodge #2645’s Charity Committee recently provided a $5,000 donation to Diakonia. Pictured are Jim Flaig, Susan Caldwell, Charlie Loane, Bruce Martinek, Carolyn Kuhn and Stephanie Hellman and Tony Stone, Sr. of Diakonia.

COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS

BEACH CLEAN UP

The Ocean City Surf Club recently teamed up with community organizations to do a big beach and street trash clean up in downtown Ocean City. Together the OC Surf Club, Maryland Coastal Bays Program, Assateague Coastal Trust, Beach Heroes of OC, Surfrider Foundation OC Chapter, The Green Team and the Town of Ocean City all joined forces with 86 volunteers to collect 432 pounds of litter in two hours.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH GUEST SPEAKER

The guest speaker at the July 2 weekly meeting of the Kiwanis Club of Ocean Pines-Ocean CIty was Worcester County Chief Administrative Officer Weston S. Young who has served for 5 years.  (L-R) CAO Young and Kiwanis Club President Tom Southwell.  He spoke about many of the issues he deals with including County taxes, assessments, Homestead rates, water rates, the budget, salaries, schools, offshore wind, recreation and parks, to name a few.  It was most informative and appreciated.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH FOUNDATION SUPPORT

Believe In Tomorrow Children’s Foundation operates three Children’s House By The Sea local facilities in Ocean City and Fenwick Island, Del.  Program Manager Mary Decker Brown of the organization was the guest speaker at the July 9 meeting of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City. Decker is pictured with Kiwanis Club President Tom Southwell. Earlier this year the Kiwanis Club donated $2,500 to the organization.

PANCAKE HELPERS

The

of

annual

Pancake Breakfast on

LIONS CLUB LEADERSHIP

a

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The Ocean City Lions Club begins

new service year each July. Steve McMIllan is the 2025 - 2026 Ocean City Lions Club President. Pictured, front row from left, are Corresponding Secretary Greg Cathell, Recording Secretary Bill Christmas, 2nd Vice President/Service Chair Mike Hooper, Marketing Chair Sarah Hooper, Director Danny Lewis and President Steve McMillan; and, second row, Membership chair Jeff Facello, 1st Vice President/Leadership Chair Sean Williams and Treasurer Joe Beran.

Kiwanis Club

Ocean Pines-Ocean City held its

summer

July 12 in the Assateague Room of the Ocean Pines Community Center. Proceeds benefited the youth and families of Worcester County. Pictured are Kiwanis Kitchen Crew members Dave Landis, Ed Ahlguist and Tom Flanagan. SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH

OFFICERS INSTALLED

The Ocean City Lioness Lions Club recently installed its officers for 2024-2025.  Pictured, from left, are Treasurer Susan McHenry,  Kathy Engle, Judy Raymond,  Billie Terrones, Amy Bishop, Vice President Roberta Taylor, Recording Secretary Faye Cathell, Autumn Fenton,  President Donna Greenwood and Bev Topfer. If you would like to be part of the organization, call 410-289-7060.

SCHOLARSHIPS PRESENTED

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The Ocean City Lioness Lions Club presented scholarships to six Stephen Decatur seniors. The students pictured are Lily Olson, Sophia Robles and Christian Martin with Lioness Scholarship Committee members Ashley Furbay, Karen Hammond, Amy Bishop and Michelle Bankert. Not present are Josephine Palmer and Ksenia Drakos who won West Ocean City scholarships and Domanick Parris won the Worcester Technical High School scholarship.

AESTHETICS & WELLNESS

Botox, Daxxify Dysport, Xeomin & Fillers Wellness Visits for Proactive

by Steve Green

CThe Adventures of Fatherhood

arson started his first job earlier this month.

Our son is 15 years and has nonverbal Autism. His life journey has taken us on an incredible roller coaster, but the key takeaway today is the inspiring progress he has made in his life over the years.

We have been through some concerning times and some unfortunate experiences, but today our Carson is a huge source of pride for Pam and me. I think he should be someone this entire community should look to for inspiration. After all, it’s the people in this community – the teachers, the Sunday School instructors, the coaches, the therapists and supportive peers – that are partnering with his family throughout his life.

Carson overcomes a lot each day, namely the fact he does not speak. There are times when we have bad judgments and behavior slipups. Indeed, there are instances when the disability prevails, and our goal is to simply learn from them and move on. These bad days are few and far between, and that’s a win for us.

Carson is blessed with a ton of support, and we will do whatever it takes to make him successful and be his best self, whatever that might be.

One of Carson’s many blessings is an innate work ethic and relentless thirst for learning about new subjects.

During dinner this week with family, the subject of astrological signs came up. Carson became fascinated with the subject, grabbing my phone and looking up information to help him understand it. Hours later, when it was time for bed, I saw him on the computer reading about his sign and common characteristics for Scorpios.

One thing I have learned throughout Carson life is to never discount him or sell him short. He has tremendous potential, largely due to his incredible desire to do well and work hard. I love his work ethic

and commitment to a task.

It’s why I was so excited when we first learned about Carson taking on a job this summer rather than utilizing Summer Academy services through the school system. The opportunity is provided through Student Employment Services, which is part of the Maryland State Department of Education’s Division of Rehabilitation Services. The effort involves a partnership between the state, Worcester County Public Schools and local businesses.

There are several local businesses who participate in this program, providing students with disabilities the opportunities to become members of their staff for a month.

In Carson’s case, he’s working at Jolly Roger’s Splash Mountain water park. I call him a “water safety technician,” but I am not sure anyone else calls what he does that. He and his friends work with their job coaches (in our case, two public school teachers) and do whatever is necessary each day. It could be retrieving rafts left behind in the lazy river or picking up life jackets discarded by excited kids.

Carson works Monday through Thursday, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., and is paid minimum wage through the program. I think it’s great he gets paid, but it really doesn’t matter to us. I joke with him his pay will be used as rent. This is more about the opportunity and building his confidence than the money.

Every student with disabilities has strengths and weaknesses. Not unlike neurotypical people, there are things these special needs individuals can be successful doing and some aspects that will be challenging.

In our Carson’s case, he has poor communication. Not only can be not talk, but he’s also shy around strangers and takes time to warm up. A job where he must effectively communicate and speak would not be an option for him.

However, Carson’s receptive abilities

are on point, and he has a great sense of humor. It sounds strange but he can effectively communicate in nonverbal ways, but it requires familiarity with him and understanding how he works. Somehow he always finds a way to show people his funny side without even saying a word. Carson has always liked being helpful and productive, and I believe he sees it as bringing value. This is where having a job is a good thing for him. Anytime I need a hand at home, Carson shakes his head, “yes” when asked to help me.

Now, there are limits. If he’s in the middle of a game on his computer, I have to be patient and usually set a timer. It must be on his time, as transitioning is a challenge for Carson. It always has been an issue, but it’s far better today than it was in recent years and especially so when he was younger.

One of Carson’s greatest strengths has always been his work ethic. He loves a task, especially one with a visible goal. I learned this early on about our kid. He loves having a job and completing it. It’s about accomplishment.

For example, many years ago we were building a fire pit at our home, using thousands of leftover bricks my mom had at her house. Once the firepit’s area was dug out and prepared, it was time to place the bricks. The problem was we needed to get all those bricks from my mom’s house to our house. I was able to task him with stacking them in my truck while I worked on something else. It was an enormous help.

Our hope is he’s filling a role at the water park. At pickup time, he’s always exhausted, which is a super thing. We are fortunate to have this program available to us.

(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.)

Best to learn how to swim before learning to surf

Seems obvious, for sure, but it’s not always the case

By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer

(July 11, 2025) It seems perfectly logical that swimming and surfing should go hand in hand. You’re a surfer, right? So that means you are also a pretty decent swimmer. Unfortunately that’s not always the case. Maybe it’s because a surfboard or bodyboard is such a good floatation device. It could also be because surfboard and bodyboard leashes work so well. It’s hard to say. Regardless, swimming should be as much a part of surfing as waxing the deck of a surfboard.

Now, don’t get the wrong idea. Our prospective surfer/swimmer doesn’t have to be of an Olympic caliber. The idea is to be able to get back to shore without the aid of a board. It certainly helps to understand the vagaries of the ocean. This comes from observation, research, and experience. The ocean is very dynamic and should never be taken for granted. Plus leashes can break, get cut by a surfboard fin or come away from a board due to a poorly tied knot. Believe it or not, I know a guy who surfed before he could swim. I was in Cape Hatteras, NC for the Eastern Surfing Championships and took a walk on the beach after one of the day’s competition. Noticing a singular surfer in the water there was also another person on the beach intently watching the surfer.

Knowing the person on the beach I inquired as to what he was doing. David Levy was his name and in his New England accent he replied, “I’m watching Peter.” I returned, “Why? What’s the big deal?” David exclaimed, “Because he can’t swim!!” I was astounded to say the least. Peter was Peter Panagiotis, also known as Peter Pan. Pete and Dave were friends and business partners. Peter was and still is a very enthused surfer. Fortunately, he’s learned how to swim since that time.

The moral of the story is to learn how to swim before learning how to surf. It’s obviously a very basic premise and one that anyone should adhere to.

Beach to Bay Heritage Area awards $25,000 in grants

(July 18, 2025) The Beach to Bay Heritage Area has announced the newest round of mini-grant recipients.

Six organizations were awarded funding from a competitive pool of applicants.

Crisfield Arts and Entertainment District will receive funds to create an art gallery and public art brochure to help visitors and residents navigate the different galleries and art installations throughout the city.

Preservation Trust of Wicomico County will be creating and installing four historic markers throughout the Salisbury Area to commemorate sites such as Camp Wallace, the site of a Civil War Camp also known as Camp Upton.

The Delmarva Discovery Museum will be using grant funds to help augment current exhibits with a modular display system and signage for rotating exhibits.

The Art League of Ocean City will conduct a month-long heritage initiative during September 2025, celebrating the rich cultural traditions, stories, and artisanal crafts unique to Maryland’s Lower Eastern Shore.

Eastern Shore Ballet Theatre will be hosting a Dance Festival on Assateague Island, free outdoor professional dance performance that will serve as a conduit to connect the community, environment, and performing arts. Seeking to share dances inspired by the island’s natural

assets, the festival highlights the beauty and fragility of the park, ocean, and coastal bays through a number of educational activities.

Rackliffe House Trust will be receiving grant funding to implement a dedicated space for a teaching and display garden project. The project aims to create an immersive and educational garden experience that accurately reflects 18th-century horticultural practices on the Eastern Shore while fostering a deeper connection to the historical and cultural heritage of the land and the Assateague Tribe.

Owl’s Nest Learning Hub, a new awardee to the program, received funding for a youth-led summer exploration of the Pocomoke River State Park, known as Watershed Wonders. This 6-week summer program will be centered on exploring the Pocomoke River and Shad Landing area through storytelling, journaling, citizen science, and family-led clean-up efforts. The program will culminate in a youth showcase and “Watershed Day Festival.”

And finally, the Museum of Eastern Shore Culture at Salisbury University was awarded funding to document the history of skate boarding in Ocean City through an exhibit and mural. The project will culminate with a communitymural led by local artist Marc Emond, an artist talk, and workshop.

vanishing vanishing OCEAN CITY

With Bunk Mann

Columbia Pictures filmed “Violets Are Blue” in Ocean City during the summer of 1985. It was the first Hollywood movie ever made in Worcester County and starred Sissy Spacek, Kevin Kline and Bonnie Bedelia. The film was directed by Spacek’s husband, Jack Fisk, and many scenes were shot on location including the Boardwalk, Trimper’s Rides, Assateague and the downtown Ocean City offices of the former Maryland Coast Dispatch.

The world premiere of “Violets Are Blue” took place on April 11, 1986, at the Sun and Surf Theatre. Attended by Spacek, Fisk and Bedelia (Kline was appearing on Broadway at the time and couldn’t make it), the premiere was emceed by local radio personality Wayne Cannon and reviewed by national film critic Roger Ebert (he liked it). As spotlights pierced the sky and movie-goers walked the red carpet, it was a festive night in Ocean City.

Pictured here at the Ocean City premiere were actress Sissy Spacek and her husband, Jack Fisk, and daughter, Schuyler.

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

Seeing through phoniness

Crushed ice in a fountain drink

Young parents doing their best juggling it all

A quiet home early in the morning

People with means driving old cars

Applauding a good parallel parking job

Still recalling memorable words of advice

Eating leftovers for lunch

How paintings change in different lights

Remembering Tom Petty concerts

Old shoes that look new

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

of Wayne Cannon

Photo Courtesy

Art League of Ocean City names Bowen 2025 Fellow

(July 18, 2025) The Art League of Ocean City announces Daniel Bowen of Salisbury, will serve as the 2025 Orem and Harriet Robinson Fellow for Contemporary Art and Community Engagement. The purpose of the fellowship is to provide opportunities for artistic growth to the artist and offer cultural enrichment to the community.

“We are excited to continue this fellowship for a seventh year, thanks to Laura Jenkins, who endowed this position in memory of her parents, Orem and Harriet Robinson,” Rina Thaler, executive director of the Art League, said.

“Daniel is an incredibly gifted musician,” Jenkins said. “His ability to connect his gift with others with energy, empathy and passion is truly remarkable and so needed in today’s chaotic times. We are honored to have him represent the Art League and the Robinson Fellowship.”

Bowen is a pianist, arranger, composer for film and television, and activist for the arts. He has composed orchestral arrangements for Grammy and Emmy winning producers, including projects for the NBA, NHL, TNT, ESPN, and Bravo. His recent score for the feature documentary film, Zora Neale Hurston: Claiming a Space, is currently streaming on PBS.

A lover of orchestral music, in 2017 Bowen launched Symphony 21, a nonprofit organization based on the Eastern Shore, dedicated to inspiring youth and uniting rural and underserved communities through the transformative power of music.

Within two years, Symphony 21's initiatives reached and inspired more than 5,000 students, providing arts programming for schools, and free multi-media concerts, exposing youth to modern approaches to music, technology and visual arts. His success gained the attention of The Kennedy Center, where he performed and give a lecture on the “Power of Music” during the REACH Opening Festival, presented by the National Symphony Orchestra.

“I believe my continued commitment to enriching the lives of young people and the local community through my nonprofit’s outreach initiatives, concerts, school tours, and my vast experience in the arts and entertainment industry makes me a great fit for this position, and an asset to the arts community,” Bowen said. “I believe this fellowship can create more awareness of my work and Symphony 21 in the Ocean City region.”

As part of his fellowship, Bowen plans to give lectures on transforming communities through the power of music with solo performances, workshops on how the arts can help with mental health and well-being, and interactive workshops specific for young audiences. Also planned are performances at the Ocean City Performing Arts Center, tentatively scheduled for the public on Sunday, Nov. 2 and a school performance for Worces-

County students on Monday, Nov. 3.

ter

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Musician and artist Daniel Bowen said he belives “this fellowship can creative more awareness of my work and Symphone 21 in the Ocean City region.”

TODAY-DISPATCH Atlantic General Hospital’s Surgical Services Department has been recognized with the AORN Go Clear Award for proper smoke evacuation. Pictured, from left, are Patricia Ortlip, perioperative nurse manager; Linda DeLong, RN; Harvey Booth, surgical tech; Amy Holloway, director of surgical services; and Melissa Lambertson, first assist surgical tech.

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Hospital recognized

Atlantic General Hospital has been recognized by the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) as a Center of Excellence in Surgical Safety: Smoke Evacuation, earning the prestigious Go Clear™ Award. This national recognition underscores Atlantic General Hospital’s unwavering commitment to providing a safe and healthy environment

for both patients and surgical staff by effectively eliminating the hazards of surgical smoke.

The AORN Go Clear™ Award signifies that Atlantic General Hospital’s surgical teams have successfully completed AORN’s comprehensive, evidencebased program and implemented advanced technologies to ensure a smoke-free environment wherever surSUBMITTED

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gical smoke is generated. This achievement demonstrates the facility’s proactive approach to protecting the health and wellbeing of everyone in the operating room.

“As a surgical team, we share a commitment to preventing harm, and eliminating surgical smoke is a critical component of our safety initiative,” stated Amy Holloway, Atlantic General Hospital director of surgical services and supply chain. “This recognition is a testament to our commitment to patient safety and the wellbeing of the surgical team. We are proud to receive the AORN Go Clear Award.”

Surgical smoke, a hazardous byproduct of energy-generating devices such as electrosurgery units, lasers, ultrasonic devices, and powered surgical instruments like orthopedic saws, poses significant health risks to those exposed. Atlantic General Hospital recognizes the importance of eliminating this risk and has taken proactive steps to ensure a smoke-free surgical environment.

“Surgical smoke occurs every day in operating rooms and poses health risks to those exposed to it. AORN created this program so that every facility can understand the urgency and take steps to protect the health and safety of patients, nurses, physicians and support staff,” said David Wyatt, CEO and executive director. “This Center of Excellence for Surgical Safety designation shows the community that the surgical teams at Atlantic

July 17 - July 24

General Hospital are committed to providing high-quality care.”

Hospitals recognized

TidalHealth has again received national recognition from the American Heart Association for the care provided to stroke patients on the Delmarva Peninsula at all three of its hospitals. At both TidalHealth Peninsula Regional and TidalHealth Nanticoke, the hospitals were awarded the 2025 Get With The Guidelines®- Stroke GoldPlus quality achievement award for its commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines, ultimately leading to more lives saved and reduced disability. The Salisbury, Maryland and Seaford, Delaware hospitals also received the 2025 American Heart Association’s Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite and Elite Plus awards, respectively. To qualify for this recognition, hospitals must meet specific criteria that reduce the time between an eligible patient’s arrival at the hospital and treatment with thrombolytic therapy.

Additionally, both hospital teams were also presented with the 2025 American Heart Association’s Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll award, signifying those patients with Type 2 diabetes, who might be at higher risk for

Continued on Page 83

Out-of-state transfer bonus eyed for OCPD

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 18, 2025) A resort commission this week agreed to support a $5,000 sign-on bonus for police officers who transfer to the Ocean City Police Department from other states.

On Monday, members of the Ocean City Police Commission voted to send a favorable recommendation to the Ocean City Council to implement a $5,000 signing bonus for out-of-state lateral transfers.

Ocean City Police Chief Raymond Austin said the initiative goes hand in hand with a $15,000 signing bonus the City Council adopted for officers who transfer from another Maryland agency to the Ocean City Police Department.

“That $5,000, talking to some of these guys, it helps them with moving and getting their foot in the door to this area,” he told the commission this week.

In an effort to fill the police department’s ranks, the commission in March voted to recommend a $15,000 signing bonus for in-state laterals, or police officers who transfer from other agencies.

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complications, receive the most up-todate, evidence-based care when hospitalized due to stroke.

Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin, Maryland was awarded the Get With The Guidelines® - Stroke SilverPlus quality achievement award with Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll.

“These three significant recognitions validate that TidalHealth is committed to improving patient care on the Delmarva Peninsula by adhering to the latest treatment guidelines,” said Steve Leonard, president/CEO at TidalHealth.

“Get With The Guidelines makes it easier for our teams to put proven knowledge and guidelines to work each day, which studies show can help patients recover better,” he continued. “The end goal is to ensure more people in our region can experience longer, healthier lives.”

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That bonus, which was approved by the City Council later that month, would be paid out over a three-year period.

On Monday, however, Austin came before the commission with another request – to offer a similar bonus to out-ofstate laterals. He noted the department had at least two officers – one from Virginia Beach, and another from Massachusetts – interested in joining the Ocean City Police Department.

“Currently we don’t have any type of incentive for an out-of-state lateral,” he said.

Austin noted the $15,000 incentive had been successful in hiring at least two in-state laterals, and that a $5,000 bonus for out-of-state laterals could have a similar effect. However, officials said hiring those out-of-state officers would be more complicated, as they would need to complete a weeks-long compar-

ative compliance course before they can begin working for the department.

That training, Austin added, came at a cost to the city.

“A total estimate of what it would cost us to train an out-of-state lateral is about $3,650,” he said. “But when you add that on top of the $5,000, you’re not even at the $15,000.”

With no further discussion, the commission voted 4-0 to forward a favorable recommendation to the City Council. Austin said out-of-state laterals would only receive the bonus if they stayed with the department for a certain period of time.

“Currently it’s three years for in-state [laterals] …,” he said. “It will probably be the same thing.”

The police chief this week also highlighted the city’s recruitment efforts, as well as the challenges of securing addi-

tional full-time officers. While the agency is budgeted for 126 officers, 117 are currently on the payroll. Taking away those in the police academy and on medical leave, the department is left with 104 full-duty officers.

But Austin said the future looks promising for the Ocean City Police Department, as eight people are currently in the police academy, and one was recently hired from another agency. He added the agency has also changed its approach to recruitment to focus more locally.

“We’re going to recruit, and we’re going to retain,” he said.

Capt. Michael Colbert also noted the police department recently received a recruiting and retention grant.

“Now, we asked for a lot and got much less …,” he said. “But we’re looking at what we can do with that money.”

System adopted for credit reports

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer

(July 18, 2025) In a news release from the National Association of REALTORS® earlier in July, it was reported that the Federal Housing Finance Agency announced Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will begin accepting VantageScore 4.0 for mortgage underwriting, either alongside or in place of traditional FICO credit scores. This change, effective immediately, provides potential homebuyers with an extra boost that can either qualify them for a mortgage or reduce the cost of the loan. VantageScore 4.0 is a newer model

developed by the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion) that analyzes changes in credit data over time and includes additional data points, such as rental, utility and telecom payments, in the credit report, rewarding borrowers for making timely payments. These data points have traditionally been excluded from credit reports.

The National Association of REALTORS® praises the FHFA decision as a win for real estate professionals and consumers. The modernization of the credit scoring system will help borrowers, especially those with limited credit, to gain access to a competitive housing market. In 2023, NAR along with other industry partners, encouraged the adoption of VantageScore 4.0.

“NAR has long called for modernizing the credit scoring system to better reflect how today’s consumers manage their finances. We applaud the announcement from FHFA Director Bill Pulte that the GSEs will soon begin accepting VantageScore in addition to other credit scoring models,” says NAR Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy Officer Shannon McGahn.

“This is a major step toward a more accurate and equitable mortgage underwriting process, one that considers timely rent, utility and telecom payments as indicators of creditworthiness,” McGahn says. “These are real-world factors that show how people pay their bills and should count when determining if someone qualifies for a mortgage.”

Expanding the number of acceptable credit scoring models also fosters competition in credit reporting, which will lower costs, increase accuracy and help more qualified Americans achieve homeownership. NAR will continue to work with the FHFA and Congress to bring further updates to credit scoring, giving more qualified borrowers the opportunity to buy a home.

- Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record for Keller Williams Realty Delmarva in Ocean City

County expresses desire for control of solar initiatives

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(July 18, 2025) The Worcester County Commissioners want more control over the outcome when a field of solar panels dies and the cleanup costs come due, but state law is tying their hands.

For the Worcester County Commissioners, the answers to these questions are important to the future of the county’s agricultural landscape. To that end, this week they said they want a greater degree of control, legally speaking, over the decommissioning process for utility-scale solar panel farms.

The conversation started as the commissioners were briefed on a proposed solar farm project as a matter of “consultation.” This is a review process that, to the chagrin of officials here, doesn’t have any real teeth. It led some on the dais to become intensely curious about the endgame of the project at hand.

Commissioner Chip Bertino asked who held the decommissioning bond –meaning, the cash set aside to fund an eventual site cleanup when the solar farm goes offline – for a proposed 40acre, 5 MW project off Queponco Road.

Under Maryland law, it’s the state who holds a bond valued at 125% of

EXPERIENCE YOU CAN TRUST

Local officials seek more say on solar farms

the project, less the salvage value, and gets renewed every five years, according to Jennifer Keener, director of the county’s Department of Development Review and Permitting.

Keener also said the decommissioning part of a solar farm proposal doesn’t come early, like in the consultation phase, but later on, when it goes before the planning commission for a site plan review.

But, she also said she’s been researching how other jurisdictions do it, and she’s collaborating with the county’s attorney Roscoe Leslie on how to approach this. The answer won’t come quickly, she noted.

County officials have long complained, generally speaking, when a solar farm goes out of service that the cleanup can be expensive, the solar panels sell for pennies on the dollar at salvage, and the acreage left behind may even be sold off at a loss because it’s deemed hazardous property.

Even more so, county leaders have said they don’t want to be kept in the dark – no pun intended – if and when acres and acres of solar panels suddenly stop delivering power, for whatever reason, leaving behind electronic carcasses.

Bertino then wanted to know, in essence: could the county place a pause on a solar farm project until the law can be changed – giving us

more of a hand in decommissioning?

If the county held a project’s decommissioning bond, Bertino said, “we would be a little bit more in control,” and be in a position to know first if a solar farm was going offline.

“I want to make sure the county is protected. What is necessary to make that happen?” he said.

County attorney Roscoe Leslie reminded Bertino and his peers that, in a solar consultation, it’s the county working in service of the solar developer. Under state law, the county has to provide the feedback – for environmental review, for zoning, for how it aligns with the comprehensive plan –so the solar applicant can improve its final submission to county planners.

Under state law, the county can’t adopt zoning laws or regulations that would get in the way of any solar development. And, ultimately, all solar farm applications wind up before the state’s Public Service Commission, or PSC, noted Leslie. The county also can contribute to PSC proceedings.

“At the end of the day,” Leslie told the commissioners, “we can’t stop the project from moving forward.”

Commissioner Bunting (District 6, Bishopville) said he recognizes that the commissioners have no power to make changes to any utility-scale solar project application.

“Us losing the authority to have control over these solar developments is a travesty. All they’re doing is eating good farmland up. It’s just a shame,” he said.

The proposed Queponco Road solar project, from Massachusettsbased developer New Leaf Energy, lies on a 191-acre family farm outside Newark, with about a fifth of the land to be covered in solar panels. It’s scheduled to go online in 2027.

The commissioners demanded at Tuesday’s meeting, in a 6-0 decision, that planning and development staffers bring forward emergency legislation that would give them more of that say-so over the decommissioning process. Commissioner Jim Bunting abstained from the vote.

While the request was to deliver this ASAP, procedurally, it first has to

go before the county’s planning commission for a favorable or unfavorable recommendation, because the commissioners are asking for a change to the county’s zoning code, according to Keener.

Notably, Commissioner Joe Mitrecic (District 7, Ocean City) wrapped things up by asking project lead Drew Funk, in general, how much money New Leaf Energy is offering farmers.

“What’s the average rental that you pay the farmer for the per acre?” asked Mitrecic.

“I’m not liberty to share that,” Funk replied. “That’s confidential with our lease agreement with our landowner.”

Mitrecic pressed him. “You can’t even give me an idea of an average?”

“No. No, I can’t,” Funk said, unmoved.

NOTICE OF ELECTION Town of Ocean City SPECIAL ELECTION JULY 22, 2025

The Town of Ocean City is holding a Special Election at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Hall A.

A sample ballot detailing the Referendum Question is provided below. Municipal Election voters will fill in the oval to the left of their chosen answer. Absentee Ballot Applications are available at https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/departments/cityclerk/2025-ocean-city-municipal-special-election/.

Once the application is received and vetted, an absentee ballot, along with a self-addressed, return envelope, will be mailed to you. Absentee ballots can be returned by mail or dropped in the white mailbox located outside of City Hall and labeled Municipal Election Absentee Ballots Only. Absentee Ballots can also be obtained in person at City Hall.

Questions regarding the Special Election can be directed to the City Clerk at 410-289-8824.

Berlin to operate new pump station on Buckingham land

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(July 18, 2025) A utility easement for the property of Buckingham Elementary School has been granted from the Worcester County Board of Education to the Town of Berlin for the installation and operation of a new pump station.

At its meeting on Tuesday, July 15, the Worcester County Board of Education provided unanimous approval for Berlin to implement a new pump station on land belonging to BES. The local municipality will be able to construct, access, and maintain the utility infrastructure to support the town’s sewer system.

In a school system memo, WCPS Maintenance and Operations Manager Sam Slacum stated that the easement, located on the elementary facility’s property, will not disrupt daily learning activities and will ensure the safety of both students and faculty.

“This easement allows the [Town of Berlin] to construct, access, and maintain the necessary infrastructure to support the municipal sewer system, which will enhance service reliability for the surrounding community,” the board’s meeting agenda reads. “The pump station will be located in a designated area that minimizes impact on school oper-

ations and ensures continued safety and accessibility for students and staff.”

According to the contract, the easement will encompass an area of property consisting of around 3,072 square feet, more or less, for Berlin’s water, stormwater, and waste management improvements on West Street.

“The easement will provide a larger easement than what was originally there to install a pumping station to assist with wastewater removal for the Town of Berlin,” Slacum said at this week’s meeting.

Jon Andes, a member of the Board of Education, asked Slacum if the new pump station would disrupt the construction of the upgraded Buckingham Elementary School, an upcoming brandnew facility planned to break ground in May 2027 and be completed in the fall of 2029. The enhanced school will replace the current, outdated learning institute.

Slacum maintained that the utility access point would not interfere with the new school’s creation or operation.

“[We] took great care to ensure this would not affect any part of the new construction,” Slacum said.

School officials said that the easement will strengthen the partnership between the two entities, the Town of Berlin and Worcester County Public Schools.

Frozen fed funds jeopardize WCPS

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(July 18, 2025) Worcester County Public Schools could see a decrease of around $1.6 million in funding for its fiscal year 2026 budget, per a federal hold on $6.8 billion already allocated by Congress for education.

At the Board of Education’s meeting on Tuesday, Vince Tolbert, chief financial officer, said that WCPS’s FY26 budget could lose that amount because of a federal funding freeze on money previously approved for education nationwide.

At the federal level, on hold is Title IIA funding for professional development for $2.2 billion, with a potential local impact of $226,745; Title III-A for English-learner services at $890 million with a local impact of $20,553; Title IVA for academic enrichment at $1.3 billion with a local impact of $168,312; and Title IV-B for before- and after-school programs at $1.4 billion with a possible local impact of $1.2 million.

Tolbert added that while these cuts have not been officially instituted, WCPS will see a dip of $400,000 in its expected budget.

“We found out a couple of weeks ago that our Title I funding, the preliminary aid, is about $400,000 less than what we received in FY25, less than what we had budgeted,” the financial officer said.

If the federal money from the Trump Administration’s freeze is cut, taking into account the $400,000 decrease, WCPS could miss out on $2,015,610 in next year’s budget.

The announcement of the federal funding hold came from the US Department of Education on June 30, just hours before the money was to be released to all 50 states. Had the funds been dispersed according to the protocol, the Maryland State Department of Education would have received its portion of the financial aid and then reallocated it to local school systems.

Now, school systems throughout Maryland and the nation await a decision on the held funding.

“On June 30, the US Department of Education issued an email indicating it had been reviewing funding for certain programs that Congress had already approved,” Tolbert said. “On July 10, I participated in a Zoom call with Carey Wright, Maryland’s state superintendent of schools. She shared that title funding programs were still being reviewed at the federal level and that the Maryland State Department of Education had still not received grant awards for several programs.”

Even though the proposed cuts appeared inevitable initially, the Trump administration announced a day before the July 1 disbursement date that

the funding was subject to an “ongoing programmatic review.”

“It's potential,” Tolbert said. “Hopefully it won’t be nearly as bad as what’s shown here. But the executive team, the superintendent, we have already started talking about things that we may have to do, steps we’ll need to take to absorb these kinds of cuts if they were to happen.”

School board member Jon Andes pointed out that Worcester’s three Title I schools —Pocomoke Elementary , Showell Elementary , and Buckingham Elementary Scool — will see the most impact.

“If you have a student at PES, SHES, or BES, those dollars flow directly into those schools, and those dollars are at risk,” Andes said. “This impacts all 50 states, and it has significant implications for all school systems across the United States.”

The dollars on hold for after-school and summer school programs are particularly worrisome, Andes said, because these programs help young learners who need additional support to keep up with their peers academically.

“The after-school program has been a key to our success because it provides an opportunity for our students who need that extra support or extra help, or need that enrichment. I’m hoping this can be resolved very quickly.”

New police facility celebrated with ribbon ceremony

Updated substation for OC police nears its completion

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 18, 2025) A new substation will serve as a hub for police activity downtown.

Joined by representatives of Gillis Gilkerson, Becker Morgan Group and the Ocean City Development Corporation, city officials on Tuesday cut the ribbon on the new Ocean City Police Department facility.

Located at the corner of Baltimore Avenue and Somerset Street, the new building features office space for police officers, public restrooms and seasonal housing for city employees.

“This new substation represents more than just bricks and mortar,” Police Chief Raymond Austin said. “It symbolizes our ongoing commitment to providing responsive, communityfocused policing for everyone who lives in, works in and visits Ocean City.”

Over the last year, the city has

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

City officials gathered for a ribbon cutting event this week to celebrate the Ocean City Police Department’s new, almost finalized substation on the corner of Baltimore Avenue and Somerset Street.

OC police department to get updated building downtown

worked with Gillis Gilkerson and Becker Morgan Group to construct a three-story substation to replace the police department’s current facility on the Boardwalk at Worcester Street. And on Tuesday, city officials celebrated the nearly completed building with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Mayor Rick Meehan thanked the city’s partners, including the Ocean City Development Corporation, for making the project a reality. He said the goal of the new substation is to increase police presence downtown.

“Ocean City continues to develop and redevelop,” he said. “This is an important part of our redevelopment downtown.”

OCDC President Joe Wilson also recognized the organization’s former president, Kevin Gibbs, whom he credited for coming up with the concept of a new substation. He said the facility will serve as an anchor for various redevelopment projects downtown, including the redevelopment of 102 Worcester Street and old Taylor property nearby.

“I really think this will be the anchor that ties it all together …,” he said.

While construction is still underway, Austin said the Ocean City Po-

lice Department is expected to move from its current substation on Worcester Street to the new Somerset Street building this fall. When completed, the substation’s first two floors will feature a public lobby, offices and bicycle storage, as well as interview rooms.

The third floor will be dedicated to employee housing for public safety officers and other seasonal employees.

“When this new substation is fully open, it will be more than just a workspace, it will be a welcoming space for our community to connect with our officers, ask questions, seek help and share concerns,” Austin said.

“Our mission at the police department has always been to build trust, ensure safety and foster strong partnerships with our community. This new facility is a testament to that mission and to the spirit of collaboration that made it possible.”

To pay for the building’s construction, the city issued a $4.2 million bond last year. Its repayment will be a joint effort between the Town of Ocean City and the OCDC. The corporation has also acquired multiple grants – including one for $100,000 and another for $250,000 – to pay for design and construction costs.

Opinions

Blame politics not US Wind

No one should blame US Wind for taking what government has given it. From the company’s perspective, it would be foolish to say, “no thanks” to an act of kindness from a state agency even if that agency had other motives.

What company — make that what successful company would do that? Recalling all the outstretched corporate hands during the COVID-19 recovery cash giveaway, it would be safe to say that no business was disinclined to take the free money.

And that’s regardless of whether it needed the cash infusion to continue to operate. Further, rare would be the enterprise that thought to ask how the federal government intended to recover the billions of dollars it was giving away.

At the time, no one cared, just as US Wind could not care less about how the Public Service Commission looked as it made what appeared to be some politically influenced decisions.

That the entire approval process on the state level was powered by pro-renewable energy politics is not in doubt, going back to 2013 when the Gov. Martin O’Malley, a Democrat, championed the Maryland Offshore Wind Energy Act. His successor, Gov. Larry Hogan, a Republican, also embraced the idea of offshore wind energy, and now it’s Democratic Gov. Wes Moore who’s pushing the buttons.

This sort of advocacy looks good on the resume of anyone seeking, say, a national office.

The only opposition to the project has come from Ocean City and Worcester County government officials, whose complaints have been ignored.

The reason for that isn’t US Wind or its business plan, it’s the lack of a sufficient number of voters here to have an impact on state politics and the age-old dynamic: businesses want to make money and politicians want to make headlines.

When those two things coincide, if blame is to be assigned, it belongs with the latter.

PUBLIC EYE

He’s

such a good boy

At this writing, I’m keeping an eye on the new puppy and reflecting on the benefit of impermeable flooring, as in tile, which we had the foresight to install many years and dogs ago.

NEWS

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By Stewart Dobson

This is even though I have sometimes wondered, while bringing up various canines, if I needed a runoff permit.

Of course, I’d rather need a runoff permit than a wetlands permit or, heaven forbid, a Critical Area exception as the result of any dog’s inability to read and then follow the indoor protocols of the housebreaking manual.

In any event, we obtained this new family member from the local shelter, where I discovered a distinct absence of people who appreciate my sense of humor.

“Hi, I’d like to get a dog.”

“That’s wonderful,” the woman at the front desk replied. “Any idea of what kind you might want?”

“Oh, I don’t know. Whichever one you think might fit on the grill ... hahahahahaha!”

If eyes were knives I would have been field dressed, trimmed out, deboned and stuffed in a bag labeled “parts-is-parts.”

“No-no!” I exclaimed. “I was just kidding. Really. Although ...”

Anyway, I ended up taking home an animal of questionable parentage, whose forebears appear to have included big dogs, little dogs and medium dogs, with racoon tails, a front half built like a truck and a caboose area fashioned after a pretzel rod.

He is the Jaws of Life attached to tweezers,

all held upright by legs that apparently operate independently of each other, giving him the unique ability to run right and left at the same time.

Interestingly, on his first night in our home, we attempted to put him in a crate only to discover that he was part banshee, judging from the high-pitched wail he launched into the minute we closed the crate door.

It was more like a siren, really, so much so that my initial reaction was to wonder whether to duck and cover, stop, drop and roll or shelter in place.

I’m not just saying it was loud, I’m saying it sounded like someone pinched the end of the Goodyear blimp and was letting the helium out of it. As a result, and to get some sleep, we took him up to the bedroom, where he settled down while I wandered around outside trying to restore my state of sleepiness.

Once I had achieved that goal, I slowly opened the bedroom door so I could return to bed. That’s when he growled at me, not that being growled at upon entering the bedroom is a new experience for me ... before we had dogs.

Although he did discover his faux pas and attempted to make up, the damage had been done. After only one night, the Little Galoot, which is pretty much what he is, had picked a side and it wasn’t mine.

To say that he immediately attached himself to the woman of the house is an understatement. As she put it, comparing our other dog to the new arrival, “If she is my shadow, then he is the gum on the bottom of my shoe.”

But clearly, she added, referencing his greeting of me moments earlier, “He’s going to be a very good boy.”

Between the Lines

By Steve Green

When it came to reviewing Ocean City’s new beach canopy and tent rules, Councilman Tony DeLuca consistently raised concerns the ordinance was unenforceable. He called the ordinance “very confusing” and said, “I just think it’s not enforceable, so I won’t be voting for it.” For this summer, DeLuca is on the money with that prediction.

Ocean City has, however, acknowledged the first summer will be about education, similar to how it handled smoking on the beach and boards. While I support the changes to prohibit tents and to not allow canopies to set up on the beach before 10 a.m. to reserve prime space for hours, there are legitimate concerns about how Ocean City will ever enforce this change in future years. Even if an enforcement policy is put in place with some fines, the prospect of issuing citations to visitors is a tough juggle to pull off for a vacation destination. It’s a bit of an enforcement juggernaut, one that will need some evaluation moving ahead.

There are currently glaring examples every day of canopies set up as space reservations on the beach. For instance, on 98th Street this week, we received multiple photos of canopies lined up along the beach as early as 6:30 a.m. The police department was called, and the caller was informed enforcement responsibility falls to the beach patrol, which would be on the beach about 9:30 a.m. These canopies are then tagged with information about the rule when lifeguards or crew chiefs find them set up before 10 a.m. It was reported this week about 600 canopies have been found unattended and tagged over the last three weeks. ***

Did your county property tax charge go down this year? For most, the amount owed did not decrease, thanks to the assessment spike far outstripping the 3-cent property tax rate savings approved by the Worcester County Commissioners in the spring. Nonetheless, it’s fair to state the increase in county taxes owed was less significant than it would have been without the rate decrease. It’s all about rising property values. In many cases, even with the 3-cent property tax decline, property owners are still paying more to the county than last year.

To demonstrate the point, here’s a comparison of some properties that I will try to make as simple as possible. I compared two primary residences, one in Berlin and another in Ocean City; a commercial property in Berlin; and a second-home rental property in Ocean City. The commonality is if your assessment went up, as most have in recent years, you most likely are paying more in property taxes than last year. The 3-cent reduction by the county does decrease what’s owed but it’s still an increase. The proper terminology, therefore, would be the tax rate was decreased, not the tax amount owed. The only way property owners saw a tax decrease was if their assessment did not increase.

For instance, for my primary home in Berlin, with an assessment of $606,933 and a tax rate reduced by 3 cents per $100 of assessed valuation, my real property tax charge from the county was $4,946 as of July 1. In comparison, in 2024, when the assessment was $569,300, my real property tax charge was $4,810. For 2023, when the assessment was $527,433, property tax owed to the county was $4,456.

For a rental home owned in Ocean City, assessed at $433,567 at the lower tax rate, the county property tax rate charge for 2025 is $3,533. For 2024, when the assessment was $405,233 and the tax rate 3 cents higher, the county real property tax charge was $3,424. For 2023, when the assessment was $376,900 and again at a rate 3 cents higher than current, the county real property tax charge was $3,184.

For a commercial property owned in Berlin, valued at $384,000, the county real property tax charge this year is $3,129. For 2024, with an assessment of $361,767, the county real property tax was $3,056 when the tax rate was 3 cents higher. For 2023, with $339,533 as assessed value, the county tax bill was $2,869.

For a primary home in Caine Woods in Ocean City, valued at $476,000 in 2025 with the 3-cent lower county tax rate, the county real property tax charge was $3,880. For 2024, with an assessment of $408,200 and the higher tax rate, the county real property tax charge was $3,449. For 2023, with an assessment of $340,300, the county real property tax charge was $2,875.

At the conclusion of the commissioners meeting this week, Commissioner Joe Mitrecic, who lives in Ocean City, remarked on the property tax situation. He said, “… I am going over to pay my tax bill. As much as I hate being right about this one, I just want to thank you all from all non-resident taxpayers of Ocean City for reducing their tax bills for them but didn’t reduce any of the residents’ tax bills.” Commissioner Caryn Abbott said, “mine was reduced.”

Tougher penalties a must for bad behavior

Editor,

It has been 3 years since the tragic loss of 14 year old Gavin Knupp. The roller coaster ride of the judicial system in this case shows we have a great deal of room for improvement. With the possible exception of the Offshore Wind controversy of today, I have never seen our community so solidly united and engaged in a demand for justice. Almost anywhere you looked you could see a “Justice For Gavin” sign. It was proven the Gentleman responsible for this gutwrenching fatality received significant help from a few who had the goal of keeping him out of trouble. They shamefully hid the Mercedes responsible for the killing in a garage. The person responsible for the fatality sat silent while the community mourned. After countless delays and legal maneuvers, the case was finally settled after the killer pleaded guilty to “knowingly being in an accident resulting in death”. The penalty for this crime was 10 years behind bars, with all but 18 months suspended. I think many would agree that accidents happen and sometimes bad things happen to good people. But it is my belief that 18 months confinement after knowingly taking someone’s life and then hiding it for so long is little more than a slap on the wrist. I do not believe “Justice For Gavin” was ever achieved.

On January 27, 2024 there was a horrific crash on the westbound span of the Bay Bridge. At 7:46 a.m. when most where going to work on a thick foggy morning, Gwendolyn Persina drove her car at a high rate of speed on the bridge crashing into

another car and ultimately setting off a chain reaction pile up of 23 cars. Several were taken to the hospital, and sadly, one man lost his arm as a result of the mass pile up. Ms. Persina had a BAC of .025 which is 3 times the legal limit. She was charged with driving with DUI, driving with a suspended license, DUI causing life-threatening injuries and other offenses. Her Public Defender legal team played the delay game and sought to have her not responsible because of incompetency to stand trial. When the Maryland Department of Health deemed her competent to stand trial last week she immediately entered an Alford Plea. An Alford Plea does not admit guilt and therefore Ms. Persina is refusing to accept responsibility for her dreadful actions. Her sentence was 3 years with all time suspended except for the period already spent behind bars. Again, another slap on the wrist for a very egregious offense.

It is my hope that we can truly get tough on crime. Citizens deserve to have safe communities to live, work and play.

Gavin Knupp should be alive today. The gentleman who suffered the loss of his arm due to Ms. Persina’s actions should not be going through life with the loss of his arm. Tyler Mailloux and Gwendolyn Persina get slaps on the wrists and their poor decision making have permanently wrecked the lives of others. I believe they are getting off much too easy. With tougher penalties for bad behavior, maybe we would have more of a deterrent to such stupid and criminal behavior.

M. Scott Chismar Ocean City

Marshal Pétain on trial for Nazi collaboration

By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer

This week, 80 years ago, Marshal Philippe Henri Pétain was on trial for his life, accused of treason, against his native France — the same France that only five years before had hailed him as a savior. How did someone as revered as Marshal Pétain — a genuinely beloved hero — find himself in the dock, facing the death penalty in the twilight of his life, accused of betraying his country?

The accused was born near Calais

in 1856 and was a career army officer. When World War I began, he had served his country for 38 years and was but a colonel. But he rose rapidly during the war. His fame was cemented in 1916 at the Battle of Verdun, where he led the French in stopping the German onslaught, and became his nation’s hero.

He was promoted from command of Second Army to Army Group Center, and following the mutinies of 1917, to Commander-in-Chief of all French armies. Recognizing that France and its soldiers were exhausted, his strategy was reflected in his quote, “I am waiting for the tanks and the Americans!” Shortly after the Armistice, he was honored by being named “Marshal of France.”

During the interwar years, he served his country as Inspector-General of the Army and, briefly, in 1934, as Minister of War. When war came to Europe, he was serving as ambassador to Spain.

Although Germany and France had been at war since September 1939, the French weren’t that enthusiastic about it. The Germans did not attack until May 10, 1940. But when they did, it was full-scale Blitzkrieg, with devastating results — for France.

A week after the assault, French President Paul Reynaud urgently requested that the marshal return to France and join the government. El Caudillo de España, Generalissimo Francisco Franco, counseled him to decline and stay in Spain, saying he was a hero of France and not to sully his name by associating it with a defeat caused by others. But

Continued on Page 96

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH Marshal Philippe Henri Petain

WORLD WAR II

his country called, and the old marshal felt he had to answer the call.

He joined President Reynaud’s government as Minister of State and Vice-Premier and advised seeking an armistice from the Germans. By June 15, the government had fled Paris, which was occupied by the Germans, and reconvened in Bordeaux, where Reynaud resigned and nominated the marshal, which was confirmed by both Chambers of Parliament.

At 12:30 p.m. on June 17, the marshal addressed his countrymen by radio. He told them that: he had, “...made a gift of my person to France,” that he had asked the Germans for an armistice, and that, “With a heavy heart, I tell you today that it is necessary to stop the fighting.”

Members of the government debated whether to retreat to the French colonies in North Africa — Tunisia, Algeria and Morocco — and continue the fight. The marshal announced that he was not leaving. He felt that it would be abandonment. He would stay and share the hardships of his countrymen.

On June 22 an armistice was signed with the Germans, calling for the occupation of three-fifths of France, including Paris and Bordeaux. Two days later, a second armistice was signed with the Italians, as a requirement of the first.

Although, by the terms of the Armistice, the French could have maintained their capital in Paris, the government preferred that it be located in unoccupied France. Therefore, on July 1, 1940, the French government relocated to the resort town of Vichy, which, at the time had a population of 25,000, several nearempty hotels in which to house the government, and a modern telephone system.

Butterflies & Blooms

Thursday, July 24 • 9:15 AM - 10:45 AM

whelmingly, granted the marshal almost dictatorial powers on July 10, 1940. The Pétain government abandoned the historical French slogan of “Liberty, Equality, Fraternity,” for “Work, Family, Homeland.”

For the next four years, the marshal walked a tightrope. Lest anyone forget — and the prosecutor, judges and juries in his trial did forget — when the Armistice was signed on June 22, 1940, more than 1,500,000 French soldiers marched into German captivity.

At the time, neither the French nor the Germans thought it would be for long, because everyone in both countries expected that France’s erstwhile ally, Great Britain, would either be overrun or would ask for terms in short order, at which time the countries would execute a peace treaty.

Even so, the 1,500,000 French POWs was a big incentive for French “cooperation,” in the interim. Added to that was: (1) the fact that, as far as the French were concerned, the British had pulled out of, and “abandoned,” France; (2) the British had attacked the French fleet at Mers-elKébir, in July 1940, taking the lives of 1,300 French sailors; (3) the British had attacked Dakar in the French colony of Senegal in September 1940, unsuccessfully, which took even more French lives.

On Oct. 24, 1940, the French marshal met the German Führer when der Führer’s train, Amerika, stopped at the French village of Montoire-surle-Loir. Der Führer was returning to the Fatherland from a meeting with the Spanish Caudillo in Hendaye, on the Spanish-French border.

The meeting had been arranged by Pierre Laval, vice-president of the Council of Ministers and was the only time that the French marshal met the German Führer. After the meeting, the marshal announced in a radio

Continued from Page 94 Continued on Page 98

The French Parliament, over-

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broadcast to his countrymen that, “I enter, today, into the way of collaboration.”

Now, his country’s “collaboration” with the victor, in an effort to cut the best deal it could for its citizens and the 1,500,000 soldiers in German POW camps, was coming back to haunt the old marshal. It had sent “volunteers” to fight with the Wehrmacht against the Red Army, had assisted in the deportation of its Jewish citizens and refugees to almost certain death in the camps and had opposed the Anglo-American landings in French North Africa.

In many other ways, large and small, it had assisted the Axis war effort. But France had not declared war against the Allies — even when sorely tempted by the British attacks and the invasion, and occupation, of its colonies by the Americans and British, and it had not allowed the Axis use of its fleet — the fourth largest in the world.

The façade of French independence was swept away when the Germans occupied the balance of France, following the Anglo-American invasion of French North Africa in November 1942, although the Pétain government continued in office. Even then, the U.S. did not withdraw its recognition of the Pétain government.

In September 1944, as the Allies swept through France, the Germans relocated the marshal and his government to the 900-year-old town of Sigmaringen, which today has a population of 15,000, and is located on the Danube River in Baden-Württemberg.

A French government-in-exile was established, with the embassies of Germany, Japan and Mussolini’s government there! But the marshal refused to be a part of the charade any longer. On April 5, 1945, he wrote to Hitler, asking to be returned to France. He was eventually taken to the Swiss border, from whence he made his way back to France, where he was arrested.

The old marshal’s trial opened on Monday, July 23, at 1p.m. Paul Monogiabaux, president of the Supreme Court of Appeals, presided. He was assisted by Judges Charles Donat-Guige, president of the Criminal Chamber of the Court of Appeals, and Henri Ernest Picard, first president of the Court of Appeals of Paris. The marshal was defended by Jacque Isorni and Jean Lemaire. A jury of 24 sat in judgment. They were selected at random from two lists. One list was provided by the Resistance. The other list consisted of those members of Parliament who did not vote full powers to the marshal on July 10, 1940.

In other words, they were all his political enemies. The prosecution team was headed by Attorney-General André Mornet. Monsieur Mornet was no stranger to these types of cases. He had prosecuted Mata Hari during the previous world war.

Although the three judges recommended a verdict of acquittal, the jury, by a one-vote majority, convicted him and, on Aug. 13, 1945, sentenced the old marshal to die. French President Gen. Charles de Gaulle, who had served under Pétain in The Great War, immediately commuted the sentence to life in prison.

Marshal Pétain was imprisoned on Île d’Yeu on France’s Atlantic Coast. In June of 1951, the old marshal, feeble and demented, was moved to a private home on the island, where he was cared for by a prie until his death at 95 on July 23, 1951. He is buried near the prison, in the Port-Joinville Cemetery.

Pétain, who did not marry until age 64, was survived by his wife, Eugénie.

Next week: Potsdam Mr. Wimbrow writes from Ocean City, Maryland, where he practices law representing those persons accused of criminal and traffic offenses, and those persons who have suffered a personal injury through no fault of their own. He can be contacted at wimbrowlaw@gmail.com.

OBITUARIES

THOMAS W. PURNELL

Berlin

Thomas W. Purnell, 89, of Berlin, departed this life on Friday, July 4, 2025, at Berlin Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Berlin. Born in Berlin, he was the son of the late Laura Purnell and Monroe Jones. He honorably served his country in the United States Army. Prior to retiring, he was employed by the State of Maryland as a Parks and Recreation worker.

A man of deep faith, he was a dedicated member of St. Paul United Methodist Church, where he sang with the Senior Choir and the Methodist Men, and served as a Sunday School teacher. His commitment to service extended beyond the church walls—he devoted over 20 years to missionary work, faithfully impacting lives through his ministry. He will be lovingly remembered by: one son, Marvin Smith (Beverly); one daughter, Lorinda Dale (James); six brothers, Bishop Edward Purnell (Leola), Norman Briddell (Ella), Vaughn Holland (Lynda), Larsen Jarmon (Portia), William Holland, and Carl Holland (Alma); four sisters, Cheryl Dale, Darlene Sessoms (Willie), Linda Duffy (Jeron), and

Thomas Purnell

OBITUARIES

Regina McCloud; five grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; 10 greatgreat grandchildren; several nephews, nieces, cousins, other relatives, and friends.

Mr. Purnell will lie in repose on Saturday, July 19, 2025, from 12 to 1 PM at St. Paul United Methodist Church, 405 Flower Street, Berlin. The funeral service will begin at 1 PM. Interment will follow at St. Paul's Cemetery, 10543 Assateague Road, Berlin. A ministry of comfort and dignity is being provided by Lewis N. Watson Funeral Home, P.A. in Salisbury. Please visit www.lewisnwatsonfuneralhome.com to offer condolences to the family.

JANICE LOUISE CROPPER

Ocean City

Janice Louise Cropper, age 78, of Ocean City, died Monday, July 7, 2025 at home. She was born in Salisbury and was the daughter of the late Edward Stanley Aydelotte and Helen (Rodney) Aydelotte.

Janice began her working career as an Ocean City Police Dispatcher where she met her husband, Steve. She later worked for 10 years at the Stephen Decatur High School as a Librarian Assistant and retired as a secretary from the Town of Ocean City Convention Center. She was a member of Bethany United Methodist Church in Berlin and was dedicated to raising her family. She loved craft shows and owned Cropper Promotions which promoted several craft shows at the Convention Center.

Janice is survived by her husband of 58 years, Stephen T. Cropper of Ocean City; a daughter, Teresa Cropper Beath and husband John of Tyaskin; two sons, Christopher S. Cropper and wife Mandi Davis-Cropper of Berlin and Phillip E. Cropper and husband, Keith Hall of Ocean Pines; eight grandchildren, Christian Cropper (Tasha Lockheart-Davis), Chase Cropper (Taryn McCallister), Mia Cropper, Kloe Cropper, Erica Mazza (Paul), Christopher Beath (Sarah Rigot), Racheal Cooke (Greg), Nathan Hall and Katie Hall; five great-grandchildren, Layton, Corwin, Lennon, Payton and Phebe; two brothers-in-law, David Cropper (Patti) and Vaughn Tilghman; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Thomas Aydelotte and James Aydelotte; three sisters, Barbara Jean Baker, Irma Lee Boyce and Beverly Tilghman.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, July 18, 2025 at Ocean City Vol. Fire Co. Station 5, 10124 Keyser Pt. Road in Ocean City where friends and family may visit an hour before the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her

memory may be made to Coastal Hospice, P.O. Box 1733, Salisbury, Md. 21802 or Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company, 1409 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, Md. 21842. Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com.

GLENN JAMES BALLENTINE

Glenpool, Oklahoma

Glenn James Ballentine was born in Salisbury, on January 31st, 1937, to parents Glenn and Blanche (McLain) Ballentine. He passed away peacefully on July 7th, 2025, in Glenpool, OK. Glenn's family moved to Ocean City, MD. and he graduated from Stephen Decatur High School in 1955, where he was President of the National Honor Society and lettered in Track. He received a scholarship to Washington College.

As a teenager, Glenn loved growing up near the ocean and had numerous jobs, such as renting umbrellas on the beach, selling newspapers on the Boardwalk, and making Saltwater Taffy at Dolly's Candy Land. He owned a 1939 Indian Four motorcycle and thoroughly enjoyed riding it on the beach. After college, Glenn moved to the Baltimore area and worked as a Marine Electrician for some time. Enlisting in the Army, Glenn was trained as a sniper and was assigned to the Baltimore-Washington area Missile Defense Unit as a Computer and Radar Operator.

Glenn worked for several large companies on the Baltimore waterfront as an Electrical Foreman and Plant Engineer until he moved in 1973 to St. Joseph, MO, and began working at the St. Joseph State Hospital, retiring in 2006 as Chief Engineer after 33 years of service. On September 2nd, 2000, Glenn married Cheryl Smith in a garden wed-

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ding in Weston, an artsy town near Kansas City. After his retirement, Cheryl and Glenn moved to Broken Arrow, OK. He quickly became a neighborhood favorite for backyard gatherings on summer evenings, especially the bar-b-que ribs. He was a very accomplished craftsman and was always willing to lend a hand to anyone who needed help.

Glenn loved traveling to visit family and friends; and, after many years, he and Cheryl went back to Ocean City. He loved seeing the places he grew up with, devouring crab cakes, visiting with family, and even parasailing over Ocean City. Key West became our favorite getaway spot and holds a special place in our hearts. Glenn often said it reminded him of Ocean City and loved the sailboat sunset cruises that were our very favorite vacation experience.

Glenn is survived by his wife, Cheryl; stepdaughter Stephanie Smith Coffman (Curt), Phoenix; stepson Jeff Smith (Katie), St. Charles, Missouri; beloved step-grandchildren Ellie, Milo, and Cooper Smith, St. Charles; and cousin, Ben Lewis, Roanoke, Virginia. Glenn was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Arthur Ballentine.

In accordance with Glenn's wishes, there will be a private Memorial Service in Key West for him at a later date.

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Janice L. Cropper

Glenn Ballentine

PHOTOS COURTESY FISH IN OC

Captain Dale Lisi of Foolish Pleasures put this group on seven fat yellowfin tuna, above left, during an offshore trip last weekend. Above right, Captain Nick Sampson of Mobsquad Fishing found some cool and tasty black belly rose fish.

PHOTOS COURTESY FISH IN OC

This lucky angler, above left, caught mahi and flounder up to 7.5 pounds with Captain Kane Bounds of the Fish Bound. Above middle, this group had seven keeper flounder to 23.5” while fishing on board Lucky Break with Captain Jason Mumford. Above right, Tracey Drocella fished with her husband Steve and landed the largest flounder we’ve seen so far this year with this 10-pounder. Below left, The Lavender family had a great day on the Wound Tight with Captain Shawn Gibson putting seven yellowfin tuna on ice. Below middle, these lady anglers had a great day catching flounder and a trout on board On the Run with Captain Dave Ca rey. Below right, mate Joey Marowski holds a barracuda that was caught on board the RoShamBo with Captain Willie Zimmerman.

Sports & Recreation

Tuna tourney hands out $1.4 million in prize money

(July 18, 2025) The 39th Annual Ocean City Tuna Tournament featured 111 boats vying for a total payout of $1,422,270.

After three days of fishing, the following represents the official results.

Single Heaviest

First place: Following Seas, $411,335

Second place: Elizabeth Ann, $184,910

Third place: Something Simple, $61,500 Heaviest Stringer

First place: Fly’n Fish, $367,460

Second place: Sushi, $58,430

Third place: Leslie Ann, $47,800 Heaviest Mahi

First place: Hopper, $55,200 Heaviest Wahoo

First place: Leslie Ann, $130,320

Lady Angler

First place: Amarula Sun, $2,000

Second place: Tidal Search, $1,500

Third place: Take ‘em, $750

Junior Angler

First place: Something Simple, $1,500

Second place: Absolut Pleasure, $1,000

Third place: Godzilla, $500

PHOTOS COURTESY OCEAN CITY FISHING CENTER

A 230-pound big eye tuna caught last Saturday by the Following Seas was good enough to bring a $411,335 payday to the team. Pictured is the check presentation from the tournament banquet.

The heaviest stringer division was a competitive one this year. Finishing in the top three spots for the entire weekend was the Fly’n Fish, winning $367,460, above; Sushi, below left, $58,430; and the Leslie Ann, $47,800, bottom right.