OC Today-Dispatch AUGUST 21, 2026
STUBBORNLY LOCAL, EQUALLY INDEPENDENT
PRICELESS
Park Service says little on horse deaths Another motorist kills another pony on Maryland portion of Assateague Island National Seashore, Park Service officials refuse to identify drivers, provide details on collisions. — PAGE 3
Sports complex suffers setback
Ocean City’s plan to create major sports attraction is down but not out, as city council rejects proposed site but not concept of big Motorists heading to Assateague Island last weekend were greeted by Good Samaritans looking sports facility in area. — PAGES 10, 14 to provide safety reminders after the second horse death in a month on the national seashore. PHOTO COURTESY OF SUSAN LONG
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OC Today-Dispatch
AUGUST 21, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
AUGUST 21, 2026
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NPS mum on details as 2nd horse killed on Assateague By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Aug. 21, 2026) The National Park Service is not answering questions about the circumstances surrounding the deaths of two wild horses struck by vehicles on Assateague Island National Seashore this month, as the incidents fuel calls from horse advocates for stronger safety measures. So far, the park service has confirmed only that Susi Solé, a 12-year-old mare, and the stallion Dune Dancer Jolt were struck and killed by vehicles this month. Susi died Aug. 13 on Bayberry Drive, while Dune Dancer died Aug. 1. No other details about either collision have been released. In an Aug. 14 statement, the service urged visitors to drive cautiously, noting that Assateague horses can appear suddenly and change direction without warning. The park’s highest speed limit is 25 mph, with lower limits in some areas. Emailed requests to park officials seeking the identities of the drivers, whether either was cited or charged, and what investigators determined about the collisions went unanswered. “We will not be publicly releasing information about the vehicles or drivers involved,” the NPS said Wednesday in an emailed statement to OC Today-Dispatch. Although much of Assateague is undeveloped, some horses spend considerable time in the island’s public access areas, where roads, campgrounds and picnic areas bring them into frequent contact with visitors. The horse deaths have rattled members of the Assateague Island Alliance, an education and advocacy group that supports Assateague Island National Seashore and its herd of horses. “We’re shook up. We can’t say we’re not. You know, two horses in a couple weeks, it’s just too many,” said Nancy Gaither, president of the organization. Gaither said the problem goes beyond motorists alone. In developed areas of the island, she said, some horses have become heavily accustomed to people because visitors continue to feed and pet them.
“I used to call Susi ‘Yogi Bear’ because she would go from picnic table to picnic table to find food. She taught her offspring to do the same,” Gaither said. “In a way, we’re the problem – the people are the problem. The horses are just trying to live their life.” The deaths have also prompted calls online for additional traffic-safety measures, including speed bumps and cameras. An online petition is also calling for license plate readers on park roadways. Gaither said those kinds of changes would be up to the Park Service, while the alliance’s role is focused more on education. “I can’t do speed bumps or cameras or anything like that – I’m just an advocate,” she said. According to Gaither, Susi was also a new mother. Her unnamed colt was born April 25. The Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company said National Park Service officials contacted its Pony Committee the day after Susi’s death about taking in the orphaned horse. Park service and fire company personnel captured and transported the foal to the Virginia side of Assateague on Aug. 16, where he is being kept in a medical barn during quarantine, according to a statement posted Monday to Facebook. “From first indications he is eating and drinking very well,” the fire company said. “He is very wean-able for a wild pony foal, at his age and should have zero problems adjusting to life on his own.” The colt will not be sold and instead will remain with the Virginia herd. The Pony Committee named him the “Wesley Bloxom Stallion,” with the nickname “Old Dad,” in honor of a longtime Saltwater Cowboy and former Pony Committee chairman. The NPS confirmed that the move to Chincoteague is permanent after concerns that the foal would not survive on his own. Rangers at Assateague conduct a horse census six times a year. The park’s latest annual population update, released in March, counted 83 horses, up from 79 a year earlier and 73 in March 2024.
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The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Real estate 2026 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are independent contractor agents and are not employees of the Company. ©2015 a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker, the Coldwell Banker logo, Coldwell Banker Previews International and the Previews logo are registered and unregistered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. 10771BALT_07/15
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OC Today-Dispatch
AUGUST 21, 2026
Ocean City forced to pay bigger bill for beach repairs Council decides to dip into reserves for $1.25M bill
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By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Aug. 21, 2026) Ocean City officials this week agreed to make a onetime payment of $1.25 million to cover a shortage in the beach replenishment fund. In a 7-0 vote, the City Council on Monday agreed to take $1.25 million from the city’s fund balance (unencumbered money) and make a onetime payment to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, which manages an account that supports beach replenishment and shore protection projects. The money, officials say, will be used to cover fund shortages mainly tied to an upcoming beach replenishment project in Ocean City. “To give you an idea, the last time we did this project in 2021 the cost was $16 million,” City Manager Terry McGean told the council. “We just opened bids with the [Army Corps of Engineers] and actually the bids were below the estimate, but the total for the project, for about the same volume of sand as we did in 2021, is $28 million,” he told the council this week. “So that gives you an idea of how much cost has increased over really just the last five years. Due to that, our cost share, the local cost share, does exceed what’s in the balance of the maintenance fund.” In 1994, the state of Maryland, Worcester County, and the Town of Ocean City entered into a 50-year agreement with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to perform periodic beach replenishment as needed. Typically, Ocean City’s beaches are replenished on a four-year cycle, although the most recent replenishment project took place in the fall and winter of 2021. The agreement also outlines the See COST Page 10
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AUGUST 21, 2026
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AUGUST 21, 2026
doubles for What they said on sports complex Cost replenishment Many supported the idea of a youth sports hub – just not at the proposed site
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor The following represents a collection of comments made during the sports complex site discussion at Monday’s Ocean City Mayor and Council meeting. Tammy Bradford, Old Ocean City Road resident: “In my opinion, this sports complex is a great example of urban sprawl, which is defined as the uncontrolled, outward spread of a city into nearby rural land. Everybody in Ocean City keeps saying it’s going to be a boost to tourism and business. If that’s true, build it next to those businesses that
are going to benefit … Another concerning factor to me is the price. I'm not a very good math person but when you say it appraised at $2.7 [million] but you are going to pay $8 [million], that math is not math-ing for me. It doesn’t sound fiscally responsible.” Chris Bunting, operator, Ocean Aerial, Cloud Dancer, Bunting’s Dusting: “… each one of these planes have five-pound grappling hooks off the back of them that do fall off at times, that fly over this location. Would you want your kids underneath those hooks, or 200- to 300-pound banners that could fall off from 200 feet with metal poles and all these accessories go with it? … “We’ve landed planes and lost banners in those fields. With all this said, are you going to tell us that you have
more experience than us in our own field, and have a better relationship with the FAA? “Because contrary to what some may think, the next thing to come from this is hotels in Berlin and on the east side of Salisbury, both closer to the complex than Ocean City. Along with it, strip malls and restaurants. And what then, would’ve been the point of Ocean City putting this facility at this particular location?” Alan Hudson, Worcester County farmer: “It is dangerous enough to move equipment on any roadway. But adding potentially thousands more cars exponentially increases chances for an accident. … “Farmland in this country, at a rate of 1.5 to 2 million acres per year, disappears. That land will never come See OPINIONS Page 12
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Continued from Page 6 funding commitments of each party, with the federal Army Corps paying 53% of the cost, Maryland paying 23.5% of the cost, and both Worcester County and Ocean City each paying 11.75% of the cost. At the city level, $500,000 has been set aside annually for beach renourishment. Those yearly contributions – alongside those from Worcester County and the state – are then placed into a shared beach replenishment fund, which earns interest and accumulates to fund future beach renourishment projects. This year, that fund will be used to start the next round of beach replenishment in Ocean City. The Army Corps of Engineers recently opened bids, with Great Lakes Dock & Dredge being the apparent low bidder. And although the bid was below the Army Corps’ estimate, officials say funding needed to cover the bid and associated fees, and maintain adequate reserves, exceeds what is currently held in the fund. To that end, the state will need to contribute an additional $2.5 million, and Ocean City and Worcester County will each need to provide an additional $1.25 million. “In order to keep that fund whole and keep the $3 million surplus in case we need emergency work, we need a one-time additional payment into the fund of $1.25 million,” McGean said. “The county will be doing the same thing. The state has already appropriated their share of an additional $2.5 million.” McGean said the $1.25 million appropriation came as no surprise to staff, who held discussions about a potential funding increase during budget deliberations this spring. Going forward, he said, the city will be contributing more to the beach maintenance funding. “I will say going forward, based on the cost, starting in FY28, everyone’s contribution into the fund – state, city and county – is going to double,” he said. “And it will go from $500,000 a year for us to $1 million a year. It’s held steady for 30 years, but we’ve had cost increases.” Despite the increase, McGean said beach replenishment remains “the most important project we do in Ocean City.” Mayor Rick Meehan agreed. “This was the most important project OC ever did, and it's the most important project for our future as well,” he said. Meehan also recognized Sens. Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks for securing $20 million in federal funding to replenish the beach. Van Hollen visited Ocean City last week to present the ceremonial check.
AUGUST 21, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
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Opinions vary on sports complex Continued from Page 10 back. This sports complex is taking close to 200 acres out of production. I personally don’t want to see Worcester County become Sussex County, where roads are so congested and development is occurring at an alarming rate. Agriculture is responsible for feeding each and ever one of us in this room, at least three times a day.” “This project reminds me of a clogged toilet. It just keeps coming back up.” Jimmy Trout, Carey Road resident: “What I’m envisioning is this bloom of light at night to take away what I have right now. It’s beautiful. … What I want is the animals to survive.” Harry Wimbrow, farmer, Whaleyville resident: “I’m in favor of the sports complex. What I don’t like is what everybody else has reiterated, it’s the location … Let’s put some thought into it. Let’s not move too fast. Let’s get it right.” Linda Tucker, Ocean City resident: “I hope you would pick a plot that's already for commercial development or the two golf courses that are out of business right now.” Martin Branigan, Ocean City resident, Ocean City Sports Complex Task Force member: “Don’t let the expense of this cause you to turn your backs on this great opportunity … It’s pretty clear at this point that members of this council are too easily swayed by too many phone calls or emails. And maybe it’s time just to make a motion to kill it.” Bob Arthur, owner, Arther’s Shooters Supply: “Ocean City is the main pull for the tourist dollar, but this county is much more than a thin strip of beach. It is the small communities like St. Martins, that has families that have lived here for generations. “They have farmed the land, bore their children, buried their ones here. Worcester County is the small momand-pop shop, like mine, which is located 35 feet from this proposed sports center.” “Worcester County is not Ocean City. Ocean City is a circus with the lights and the flare and the crime that goes unreported. Rural Worcester County does not want to have Ocean City circus in our rural backyards. In my case, 35 feet from my house.” Rick Rogers, Carey Road resident: “I asked AI today to summarize for me the reasons why the Town of Ocean City opposes the proposed offshore wind project. And every single one of the reasons that it gave me … every single one of them could be said about why we oppose the sports complex in this area. “So it’s, again, not so much that I, or any of us, it sounds like, oppose a Worcester County sports complex. But not in this location. It’s like the
AUGUST 21, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
OC chided for plan to buy farm town says about offshore wind. It goes on record as saying we are not against green energy, we just don’t want it this close. And that’s how we feel.” Wes Maddy, Berlin resident: “Ocean City needs this. You talk about the numbers dwindling? The numbers are dwindling because of travel sports. Because the money that parents are spending. I spend between $5,000 and $10,000 a year to travel the country and playing sports. “So from the time I’m doing that, I’m not able to go on other vacations … Our vacation is going to Wichita, Kansas … That’s how people should view Ocean City. “Sports aren’t going anywhere. I’ve spent $5,000 going places. I’m one person. Multiply that by the 600 teams that go to the Jefferson Cup in Richmond every year. Multiply those 600 teams by the 10 or 15 players per team. Multiply that by the three or four family members that go. You have exponential growth.” Phyllis Wimbrow, Whaleyville resident, former Worcester County Development Review and Permitting deputy director: “I’m not opposed to a sports complex. I think it would be a great use. I think it would be beneficial to Worcester County. The thing is, the county is just more than Ocean City, as you recognize.
“Ocean City is the economic engine of Worcester County. I recognize that. But agriculture is second. In land use coverage, it is by far the greater use.” “There are areas in this county that I can think of that are more appropriate than this. Look for the areas that are classified as being existing development. They have land that is vacant within them.” Scott Chismar, Ocean City resident: “I hope at some point in time we can find the right place to do this because the kids need it. But for everything that’s been said time, some very compelling reasons, I hope this isn’t it.” Terry Miller, Ocean City resident: “I think this should be something the county is doing or we're doing it in conjunction with other towns … and I don’t think that Ocean City should be deciding what’s happening out in the county.” “John [Gehrig, councilman], you say this isn’t going to take any property taxes. Well, it’s tax money that came from somewhere, and it belongs to the residents of Ocean City. And it shouldn’t be going all out in the county.” “If the residents of the whole county agree that’s what we need, then we should all work together. It should be something that Ocean city isn’t imposing on other people.”
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Land purchase for sports complex rejected by council By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Aug. 21, 2026) Plans to purchase a 193-acre property for the development of a sports complex just west of Berlin fell apart Monday night, with most of the Ocean City Council expressing concern about the location and the impacts it would have on neighbors. Dozens of residents in the St. Martins community, armed with a list of more than 1,000 signatures, filled the council chambers to voice their opposition to the city’s purchase of two parcels of land off Old Ocean City Road, roughly nine miles west of municipal limits. The land, officials announced last week, was under consideration for an indoor-outdoor sports facility, aimed at attracting youth travel teams and their families to the area and, ultimately, Ocean City hotels, restaurants and attractions. However, before the City Council ever got around to taking public comments, four of the city’s seven council members kickstarted the discussion by voicing their own objections to the site. By the end of the meeting, a motion to pass the first reading of an or-
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dinance, authorizing the Mayor and City Council to purchase the property, failed for lack of a second. “I think this project means a tremendous amount to Ocean City, I think this project means a tremendous amount to the county,” said Councilman Jake Mitrecic, who withdrew his second after hearing the community’s concerns. “But without the buy-in of whatever community it ends up in, or finding the perfect place, we’re just gonna poison it so bad that our citizens, that we represent, will never support it again. And it will just be gone. Ten years of work, gone.” In a work session last Tuesday, the Ocean City Council agreed to proceed with an $8.7 million purchase contract for the 193-acre parcel, currently owned by Harrison Farms LLC. The 7-0 vote effectively began the city’s first steps in acquiring land for the development of a future sports complex. But by the end of the week, a group of council members were out at the property, meeting with nearby residents and hearing their concerns about the city’s chosen location. During Monday’s meeting, when the council was to vote on the land acquisition, Council President Matt James announced he would not be supporting the ordinance. “I’ve spent hours on the phone talking to people who support and oppose this proposed location. I even joined fellow council members in a meeting with neighboring property owners who have legitimate concerns with the impact that this property will have on their way of life,” he said at the start of the discussion. “I do not see a way for our vision to co-exist with such opposition to this location. So, in an effort to be a good neighbor, I do not support this location moving forward.” James was backed by Councilman Jeff Heiser, who likened the community’s opposition to the city’s stance on the offshore wind project. “You know, we don’t want windmills in our backyard, right? So why do you guys want to support a complex in yours?” he said. “I also think this will be a financial burden on the taxpayers of our city. I want to support the complex too. I’m for sports, I’m for tourism. But I think of the burden this would put on members of our community at this time. So, at this point, I’m not in favor.” Council Secretary Will Savage also expressed concerns about community buy-in, as well as the local and state approvals needed to make the project a reality. He said his opinions on the property acquisition were the same as those he expressed during the city's long-running debate over short-term See PUSHBACK Page 16
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The council chambers in City Hall were full when the Town Council addressed a potential land purchase at Monday night’s meeting. BETHANY HOOPER/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Pushback alters council decision Continued from Page 14 rentals. “In my opinion, this is a commercial operation in a residential district, and this is similar to that …,” he said. “I want to stay consistent, and I can’t support it at this location.” Councilwoman Carol Proctor echoed their comments, adding that she also had concerns about the financial projections used by the city to support the development of a sports facility. “I actually did speak with some people who own a sports complex, privately, and I also spoke with oth-
ers, and I just don’t even believe in the budget or pro forma that was presented,” she said. “I don’t think those numbers are correct. I think it’s a lot of forecasting, and I just can’t get behind the project. I don’t agree with it.” The majority’s comments then kicked off a back-and-forth discussion, in which sports complex advocate Councilman John Gehrig expressed his disappointment over his colleagues’ decision. He argued that rejecting the land acquisition before plans could be presented were “premature.” “To be quitters now, you guys
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should be ashamed because we talked about this for years,” he said. Pointing to the decline in room night bookings, and a change in tourism trends, Gehrig said the city needed to do something to bring “respectful guests” to the resort. Sports tourism, he said, was a way to do that. “The economic impacts are tremendous, and people spend money,” he said. “These are families that are spending $3,000 to $5,000 a year. They are spending that money throughout our region, and certainly Ocean City is going to be a beneficiary, but the entire county is going to benefit. So, we need an idea that’s going to make real money, that’s going to introduce people to Ocean City, to Worcester County.” He also argued that the sports complex would be funded with room tax dollars, and not residential property taxes. Proctor, however, continued to express her concerns – not only about the funding mechanism, but about entering into a contract for the property without first seeing the terms in writing. “We are putting the horse before the cart when we are entering into a contract and signing it,” she said. Referring to the terms in the contract, City Solicitor Heather Stansbury said the city was agreeing to buy the property at $8.7 million and to make a $250,000 deposit, which would be paid immediately upon execution of the contract. She said that money would only be returned to the city if the ordinance did not pass, or if the sellers could not convey clear title. Going further, Stansbury added that the city would also need to work with the Maryland legislature, the Maryland Stadium Authority and other agencies to get the necessary approvals for the property. “If those things occur, you would not have to move forward to settlement and purchase the property for $8.7 million, but you would not get back your $250,000,” she said. Replying to Gehrig’s comments, James said the argument was not See GEHRIG Page 18
AUGUST 21, 2026
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Gehrig calls council “quitters” Continued from Page 16 about desire for a sports complex, but about the location. “Maybe even some of the people here want the sports complex,” he said. “If we can go back and find a property that is zoned for something like this, it may be more palatable for me.” Mayor Rick Meehan shared his support for the sports complex project but noted that Ocean City did not have the space to accommodate a facility. With that said, he said the city needed to work with those outside municipal limits. “I think what tonight has proved is, once again, the process has failed …,” he said. “We didn't have the opportunity or the process in place to hear a lot of these concerns, answer the questions, and rule out this property before it came to this, if it didn't meet the test. That's what’s failed us.” “You shouldn't have to be here,” he told community members in attendance, “and some of our council members shouldn't have to be asking the questions that they're asking tonight.” James disagreed with Meehan. “I don’t think it was rushed to an agenda for any wrong reasons,” he replied. “I think we put it on the agenda because we needed to move forward, and this is the process it
would take to do so. We needed the public to be aware that we were looking at the properties so they can provide feedback. We also had a timeline, expecting that the project may be petitioned. We wanted to be able to put it on the ballot for the November election, so we had a true representation of Ocean City voters.” The council’s comments were following by public discussion (see Page 10) during which nearby residents, farmers and business owners shared their opposition to the city taking agricultural farmland for commercial use. They also voiced their concerns about traffic, future development and the appraisal the city used in reaching a purchase price. While the property is currently appraised at $2.7 million, that number increases to $8.7 million if the land is rezoned as commercial. “If you don’t want it here, help us find somewhere else,” Gehrig told residents. Ultimately, Gehrig’s motion to approve the property purchase on first reading failed, with Mitrecic withdrawing his second. “I want this bad, but not bad enough to screw it up, where we can’t make it happen in the future,” Mitrecic told Gehrig. “That’s just how I feel.” See page 10 for more comments.
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Board approves human composting project soil to gradually convert the 15 acres of farmland into a forest, at a rate of about one to two acres per year. Attorney Hugh Cropper represented both Earth Funeral and the current property owners, whose contract to sell the land was contingent on zoning approval. A sale price was not disclosed. Cropper told the zoning board that human composting can be considered a “natural alternative” to having a casket or a headstone. “This way, you naturally go back in the soil, you nourish the trees, trees take up the nutrients, and you’re there forever – very low impact,” he said. Cropper also acknowledged that “it’s not a use that everybody might be happy is next to their house,” but insisted the composted soil would be
Md. company to purchase Snow Hill site where soil will be used to plant forest By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Aug. 21, 2026) Worcester County has approved a first-of-its-kind human composting project near Snow Hill, but not without some unease from neighbors living alongside the property where the unique soil would go. The county’s Board of Zoning Appeals voted 4–2 at its Aug. 13 meeting to grant a special exception that allows soil made from human remains to be applied to the agricultural property as a soil amendment. The decision clears the way for the company Earth Funeral to use the
odor-free and nontoxic. He also said this doesn’t make the site into a cemetery – which is its own regulated land use – because there would be no signage, public access, or regular traffic associated with the property. In 2024, Maryland approved what’s known as “natural organic reduction” under the Green Death Care Options Act. The law sets a regulatory framework for facilities performing the process and prohibits the resulting soil from being used to grow food for humans or livestock. It also legalized a different process known as water cremation. The act, however, did not spell out where or how large quantities of the resulting soil could be applied, leaving Worcester County to decide how
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such a use fit within its zoning rules. For Earth Funeral, which is also a licensed state funeral home, the Scotty Road property would be its first land application site in Maryland since opening a processing facility in Elkridge in May. The company has run a similar reforestation project in Washington state for about four years. The roughly $5,000 process relies on a chemical-free mixture of wildflowers, wood chips, and microbes to transform a corpse into roughly 300 pounds of soil in 30 to 60 days. The resulting soil is tested for pathogens, heavy metals, and harmful bacteria before leaving the facility. Families decide how much of the resulting soil they want to keep. The remainder can be mixed with material from other decedents, stored at Elkridge, and eventually hauled in sealed containers to a conservation site such as the Worcester property, according to Scott Roycroft, the company’s head of real estate. Some details remain unsettled. Earth Funeral did not identify the local funeral home it would work with, nor did the company say when the first soil application would occur. County officials previously said the applicants had discussed applying roughly 15 to 30 cubic yards of material per acre, although the final rate will be determined through a nutrient management plan. Among several neighbors who raised concerns at the zoning hearing was Roger Richardson, a former Maryland agriculture secretary who, at age 92, said he still farms about 4,000 acres. He objected to taking what he called “good farmland” out of agricultural production and questioned how the material would be handled. “How do you spread it? Do you use manure spreaders?” he asked. “I didn’t particularly like spreading chicken manure. God knows I’m not gonna spread people.” Donna West, Richardson’s daughter, questioned why the Snow Hillarea farmland, located about 130 miles away from the Elkridge facility, was attractive to Earth Funeral. “Why are you choosing Worcester County? It’s so far away from Howard County. And why would a company of your magnitude put so much money into a facility and not have the forethought of having a place to put the remains?” she said. Tree farmer and lifelong Worcester County resident Robert Jones, 81, said his 191-acre property borders the project site. “My only concern is, Roger [Richardson] and I will be the guinea pigs for this project,” he told the zoning board. “There’s no past experience to go by, as far as I can tell, that says ‘this will work.’ Hopefully it See NEARBY Page 23
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One killed, one injured after truck drove into restaurant By Kerin Magill Coastal Point (Aug. 21, 2026) A Pennsylvania woman waiting to be seated at a Fenwick Island restaurant died after a truck plowed into the building late Friday afternoon. According to Fenwick Island Police Chief Michael Morrissey, an elderly man driving a Honda pickup truck “was pulling into the handicapped spot outside of the restaurant and was letting his wife out of the passenger side” of the truck in front of Mancini’s restaurant when “his foot slipped off the brake and hit the gas. “They went over the parking barrier and went right into the restaurant,” striking an 80-year-old woman and her 17-year-old granddaughter, Morrissey said. Both were pinned — the granddaughter “was actually underneath the truck,” he said, and the older woman was pinned against a counter inside the restaurant. Morrissey said Fenwick Island Police Department officers arrived and immediately started a rescue operation at the restaurant. Bethany Beach Volunteer Fire Company also arrived at the scene shortly thereafter, he said, as well as Sussex County EMS. The Sussex County Technical Rescue team also responded. “The front of the building was kind of collapsing around them,” Morrissey said. Once the building was stabilized, emergency personnel were able to remove the woman from the wreckage. She was flown to Christiana Medical Center by Delaware State Police helicopter, Morrissey said, but she died at the hospital. The granddaughter was also flown
to Christiana, by Maryland State Police helicopter, Morrissey said, adding that both helicopters landed in the parking lot of the Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamber of Commerce, a few blocks north of the restaurant on Coastal Highway. Morrissey, speaking with the Coastal Point around 7:30 p.m. on Friday, said the granddaughter’s condition was “serious.” At that point, Morrissey said he was still at the scene, along with other emergency personnel. “They just pulled the pickup truck out of the front of Mancini’s just a few minutes ago,” he said. Delaware State Police were on the scene as well, assisting the Fenwick Island police officers. “The state police crash investigator is here right now,” Morrissey said, adding that South Bethany Police Department officers had also assisted on the scene. One northbound lane of Coastal Highway was closed for several hours following the accident, while both southbound lanes remained open, Morrissey said. The names of the victims in the crash had not been released as of early Friday evening. While emergency personnel were unable to save the Pennsylvania woman, Morrissey praised the efforts of all of the agencies that responded. “We have a phenomenal rescue service here in Sussex County,” he said. “I’m in awe.” The Sussex County Technical Rescue team was at work Friday evening, shoring up the building, he said. “We are so lucky to have such dedicated people. We have some good crews down here,” Morrissey said.
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POLICE/COURTS
Two charged with burglary Two individuals were charged with fourth-degree burglary this week after it was discovered they were gaining access to a municipal bus station office without permission. On Aug. 18, shortly after midnight, Ocean City police conducted a check of the downtown bus station at S. Division Street. City staff had tipped off police about suspicious activity at the office and had requested officers provide routine checks of the property. When police arrived, James E. Calhoun, 47, and Dorothy J. Meece, 52, both of no fixed address, were found in the bus station office. Police concluded Calhoun and Meece obtained entry without permission and had no reason to be inside other than shelter. Calhoun and Meece were arrested
earlier this month for a similar situation at the Sunset Park restrooms.
Beer bottle to the face A Pennsylvania woman was charged with assault and intoxicated endangerment after police determined she hit another woman in the face with a beer bottle. On Aug. 15, around 11:45 p.m., Ocean City police were alerted to an assault that had occurred inside a Boardwalk bar. Bar staff told police an intoxicated Celeste A. Ruzo, 31, of Philadelphia, had been kicked out of the establishment. Before being removed, Ruzo threw a shot cup at a woman inside the bar and then struck her in the face with a glass beer bottle. According to the statement of prob-
Nearby owners voice concerns Continued from Page 20 will.” Zoning approval was subject to several conditions. No crops may be grown for human consumption, which is already state law, and acreage awaiting trees must remain planted with active cover crops. Hunting rights would also be leased to control deer, and no soil could be applied within 50 feet of the
able cause, the victim had two fresh scrapes on her face that were still bleeding. Police officers attempted to apprehend Ruzo when they arrived on the scene, but her intoxicated state made it difficult. At one point, Ruxo’s stumbled and fell into a bike patrol officer causing them both to fall to the ground.
Wanted man with cocaine A man apprehended on an arrest warrant found himself in more trouble when he told police where to find his cocaine. On Aug. 16, around 1:09 a.m., Ocean City police conducted a business check at a downtown bar when Warren Dumarsair, 31, of Ocean City, walked by and said hello. The officer recognized the man and knew he was currently wanted on an active arrest
property lines or road. Qualified professionals also would inspect the property twice a year and report back to Worcester County. Voting in favor of the special exception were Worcester County Board of Zoning Appeals members Beth Gismondi, Robert Purcell, Thomas Babcock, and Stephen Katsanos. Lisa Bowen and Larry Fykes voted no.
warrant. Once police confirmed he was wanted, police officers waited for Dumarsair to exit the bar at closing time. Police apprehended him soon after and Dumarsair told police, “Let me just save you guys the trouble. Can you grab my wallet and look behind the ID in there and tell me what you see,” according to the statement of probable cause. Police located two small bags containing about one gram of cocaine in each bag. Police also located a piece of paper shaped into a scoop for ingesting the cocaine. Dumarsair is charged with possession of a controlled dangerous substance-not cannabis. Court records show Dumarsair was wanted as a result of a failing to appear in Ocean City District Court last year after being given multiple traffic citations as well as a probation violation.
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OC police arrest man after armed robbery at motel Charges filed include theft, assault, and endangerment (Aug. 21, 2026) The Ocean City Police Department has charged Troy Evan, 47, of no fixed address in connection with an armed robbery that occurred early Monday morning. At approximately 1:47 a.m., officers were called to a motel near 71st Street for a Troy Evan reported armed robbery. The victim, a motel employee, told police that a suspect entered the front lobby, pointed a knife at him, and demanded money. The man then left the motel and was last seen walking north on Coastal Highway. The victim provided officers with a description of the robber. Officers with the Ocean City Police Department's Arrest & Detection Section reviewed the description and determined that it matched Evans. Officers also learned that Evans had been released from the Public Safety Building approximately four hours earlier after being arrested on Sunday in the 44th Street area for an opencontainer violation. Evans had been released on his personal recognizance. Police found Evans in the 10-block of 87th Street at approximately 2:20 a.m. Evans was placed under arrest. Officers located two knives and cash on his person. He was charged with armed robbery, robbery, theft under $100, firstdegree assault, second-degree assault, and reckless endangerment. Evans appeared before a Maryland District Court Commissioner and was held without bond. He was subsequently transferred to the Worcester County Jail. The Ocean City Police Department encourages residents and visitors to report suspicious activity or concerns about possible criminal activity. Tips can be provided to the OCPD Tip Line at 410-520-5136, by email at crimetips@oceancitymd.gov, or by contacting the Police Department directly at 410-723-6610.
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Charming 3 BR, 2 BA Cape Cod in desirable area with NO HOA & NO city taxes! Less than 2 miles to Ocean City beaches & boardwalk. Perfect primary residence, vacation getaway, or investment opportunity. Main level 1st floor BR & full BA, living area, eat-in kitchen & cozy sunroom. 2 spacious BRs & 2nd full BA upstairs for family & guests. Easy access to nearby shopping, popular restaurants, & local bars. Coastal living at its best. Don't miss your chance to own a piece of West Ocean City! Schedule your tour today! $
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A well-kept, age-restricted (55+) condominium community 2 miles from Bethany Beach. 2 BR, 2 BA condo with ground-level entry & move-in readiness with open floor plan. Airy living room with natural light via slider to the screened porch for sun & sunset views. Inside, generous primary suite awaits - a walk-in closet & an en suite bath. Versatile 2nd BR, perfect for guests or home office, down the hall. Additional comforts include a stacked in-unit washer/dryer & ADA-accessible features throughout. $ Book your showing today!
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2 COMMERCIAL UNITS FOR LEASE 12720 OCEAN GATEWAY WEST OCEAN CITY Unit #4 has 1,671 Sq Ft of leasable space. Unit #6 has 4,450 Sq Ft of leasable space. 2 exceptional leasing opportunities in a 20,468 SF Building on 3.86 Acres. These versatile spaces are suited for retail or professional use in a high-traffic corridor. Outstanding visibility & steady daily exposure with several successful businesses already in operation. Just minutes to Ocean City’s beaches & surrounded by several newly developed hotels, this location draws consistent foot & vehicle traffic from locals & tourists alike. With strong growth in the area & continued development, this is a prime opportunity to establish or expand your business.
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AUGUST 21, 2026
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Berlin declared an official Christmas town by Hallmark By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Aug. 21, 2026) Berlin’s charming aesthetic has earned the town an “Official Christmas Town” title by the Hallmark Channel and the chance to be featured in a holiday movie. Last week, the Hallmark Channel released its top 25 Merriest Christmas Towns as part of its contest to secure a festive spot for a new holiday flick. Berlin was named among the finalists, the only municipality in Maryland to receive the honor. The Hallmark Channel spent the last few months searching the country for towns that go the extra mile to create Christmas cheer for residents and visitors as part of the network’s 25th anniversary. These locations, announced last Friday, are now vying for a chance to be named Hallmark’s Merriest Christmas Town and be highlighted in an official Hallmark film. The top 25 destinations have advanced to the competition’s public voting phase. Each entry is available for viewing on the Hallmark Channel’s website, where voters can select their favorite. Besides the Eastern Shore spot, other towns in the running for the ultimate prize include Cape May, New Jersey; Carolina Beach, North Car-
olina; Corning, New York; Hanover, Pennsylvania; Lewisburg, West Virginia; Cullman, Alabama; and Chatham, Massachusetts. Hallmark approached Berlin to enter the contest, said Ivy Wells, the town’s economic and community development director. The Worcester County municipality has maintained a reputation for picturesque streets and historic buildings, citizen pride, and well-attended, traditional holiday festivities, which caught the network’s eye. Berlin’s official description on the Hallmark Channel’s website specifically mentions some of the town’s popular Christmas celebrations. Among them is the tree-lighting ceremony, with coastal-themed ornaments decorated by the area’s students. “Every December, we gather around a real Christmas tree, cut from a local farm and placed in the heart of Main Street,” Berlin’s contest entry page reads. “Before the lights are ever switched on, our schoolchildren decorate it with hand-painted oyster shell ornaments, celebrating our coastal heritage one ornament at a time. When the pipes and drums begin to play at our annual tree lighting, the See BERLIN Page 31
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AUGUST 21, 2026
2nd Annual Chili Pepper Festival planned for Berlin Hot Sauce Band to perform three sets on Main Street during Saturday’s event
PHOTO COURTESY OF BERLIN CHAMBER
The first-ever Chili Peppers Festival was hosted last year by the Berlin Chamber of Commerce. Live music is planned throughout the event as well as contests.
g 35 Yea n i t a r b e r l s! e C
Sea food
I n th
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Aug. 21, 2026) Berlin residents and visitors can test their spicy food tolerance this Saturday at the town’s second annual Chili Pepper Festival. The Berlin Chamber of Commerce is hosting the spicy-foods event on Saturday, Aug. 22, from 3-8 p.m. in downtown Berlin. Entertainment will include tunes from the Hot Sauce Band. The musical act is slated to play from 3-4 p.m., 5-6 p.m., and again from 7-8 p.m. Also in the lineup is a pepper-eating competition at 4 p.m. Berlin Chamber of Commerce President David Fitzgerald said the contest will begin with mild chili peppers and gradually increase in heat. “They’ll go from a low heat, and gradually as they eat each one it’ll go to a hotter scale,” Fitzgerald said. Six participants may compete in the spicy chili pepper tournament. As of Tuesday afternoon, two had signed up. Fitzgerald said those interested in the eating contest should register in advance by emailing info@berlin-
chamber.org. Competition will continue to heat up throughout the day with a wingeating and trivia challenge scheduled for 6 p.m. The chamber president said prizes are available for both contests, including a trophy and gift certificates. Additionally, aligned with the day’s spicy theme, vendors will be selling chili peppers, hot sauces, foods and crafts. “Everything that relates to hot chili peppers,” Fitzgerald noted. Chamber of Commerce representatives said that the Chili Pepper Festival was created last year to promote those involved in the chili pepper space, including farmers who grow peppers, vendors who make products with chili peppers, local business owners who offer these items, and restaurants who serve them. “It was successful last year, so we wanted to continue and improve the event,” Fitzgerald said. The event will take place primarily in the evening to avoid an unbearably hot, weather-wise, festival, encouraging attendance among visitors and residents. “We did change the time to 3 to 8 p.m. so it’ll be cooler, and we don’t have many evening events in Berlin, so we wanted to try another evening event,” Fitzgerald noted.
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Berlin could be setting of a Hallmark movie Continued from Page 29 whole community gathers, and the season officially begins.” Also listed to prove Berlin’s commitment to Christmas are the Kringle Cottage, where kids can visit with Santa; the seasonal carriage rides offered every year; the ice sculptures that make up Ice Ice Berlin; the Merry Marketplace for handmade gifts; and the beloved Christmas parade. “The largest nighttime Christmas parade in Maryland is right here in Berlin,” the contest website adds. “More than 85 illuminated floats,
marching bands, community groups, and thousands of spectators turn Main Street into a river of light, laughter, and unforgettable memories.” Wells told the Bayside Gazette this week that she believes Berlin would be the perfect setting for a Hallmark movie. “Berlin already looks like it belongs in a Christmas movie, so we’re going to embrace that and show Hallmark we’re exactly what they’re looking for,” she said. “We know how to do Christmas in Berlin. We’re not a movie set pretending to be a small
town. We’re a small town that looks like a movie set.” If Berlin wins, that recognition will be added to the list of honors bestowed on the community: it was named one of America’s “Most Charming Christmas Towns by “Travel Leisure,” one of America’s Best Small Towns for Christmas by “Country Living,” and was voted America’s Coolest Small Town by Budget Travel in 2014. People who wish to vote for Berlin can cast ballots on the Hallmark Channel’s website through Sept. 4.
Voters are required to enter their email addresses. A message will then be sent to the email inbox to confirm the selection. While community participation matters, the town that receives the most ballots does not automatically win. Wells said that upon the conclusion of the community selection period, judges will evaluate the 25 towns based on community spirit, holiday traditions, neighborhood charm, and goodwill to decide which location will be named Hallmark’s Merriest Christmas Town of 2026.
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AUGUST 21, 2026
Berlin administrator plans to retire this fall By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Aug. 21, 2026) Two high-ranking Town of Berlin employees have resigned, with long-time town employee and current Town Administrator Mary Bohlen being one of them. Also announcing her departure earlier this month is the town’s human resources director, Kelsey Jensen. Both will step down from their posts this fall. Bohlen, who is retiring, confirmed in an email to the Bayside Gazette on Monday that her last day will be Oct. 9. Bohlen is a Salisbury resident who began working for the town at 25 years old in 1991. Her first job was in Town Hall’s front office, where she answered phones and rang up utility
customers. Her roles within the municipality have included grants administrator, special projects administrator, deputy town administrator, and, since August 2022, town administrator. Bohlen succeeded former town administrator Jeff Fleetwood. The town administrator oversees the government’s day-today operations. Ac- Mary Bohlen cording to the Town of Berlin’s code, the town administrator supervises all main department heads and central office staff and is responsible for ensuring the overall efficient and effective administration of all of the town’s departments. As for hiring a successor, the town
1 6 o t y s e a r e r e s h C
code explains that the mayor may appoint a new town administrator with council approval. Human Resources Director Jensen will remain on the job until mid-November, according to Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall, to provide a smooth transition for the town. She graduated from Frostburg University in 2011 with a degree in social work. She later received a master’s degree in business from the University of Maryland University College, now known as University of Maryland Global Campus, in 2018. Initially, she worked as a courtroom clerk for the Circuit Court of Worcester County. Jensen came to Berlin in 2016 for an administrative job. She then began training to earn certification as a municipal clerk and eventually took over as Berlin’s director of human resources. Tyndall said Tuesday that the town plans to begin the hiring process within the next few weeks, and that the positions will be posted externally. “We will be pushing out the postings for the vacant positions in the coming weeks and working through the hiring and selection process,” he said. Councilmember Steve Green, also the executive editor of this publication,
acknowledged the upcoming staff departures and said he hopes the town moves quickly to bolster the town’s administration. “I have enjoyed working with Mary and Kelsey during my term, and I thank them for their dedicated service to Berlin,” he said. “The loss of two top-level administrators around the same time is a big deal for a government Berlin’s size. I am hoping we will immediately begin the search process to continue to move our Kelsey Jensen town forward.” Councilmember Jack Orris also recognized Bohlen and Jensen’s contributions to the Town of Berlin during their tenures. “Losing members of administrative leadership is never easy for any organization,” he said. “I’m grateful for what has been learned from both Kelsey and Mary and wish them nothing but the best in their respective next chapters. I also want to recognize and thank Kelsey and Mary for their years of service to the Town of Berlin.” Bohlen said she plans to provide additional remarks regarding her retirement at the Town Council meeting on Monday, Aug. 24.
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Brady Bowman passed away peacefully in his sleep on August 8, 2026, at Tidal Health in Salisbury, Maryland, following a courageous battle with throat cancer. Brady was my partner, my best friend, and the most important person in my life for 21 wonderful years. He was a deeply devoted partner and friend whose generous, helpful spirit touched everyone he met. Together, we shared a life full of simple joys—playing pool, playing shuffle bowl, and spending hours just hanging out and talking. His everyday work stories will be dearly missed, as will the special bond he shared with his beloved furry companion of 21 years, Tazzer, who misses him endlessly. For the last several years, Brady worked as a subcontractor for Roy at RYT Plumbing Company. He truly loved his work and formed strong, lasting friendships with Roy, Tyler, Michael, Dre, Jonathon, Dave P., Big Dave, Austin, and many others on the team. Known for his deep love of animals, his unwavering kindness, and his great sense of humor, Brady was always there when someone needed him. His love, friendship, and presence left an indelible mark on our hearts, and he will be missed far more than words can express. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to everyone who reached out, checked in, and supported me over the past three months. Your kindness has meant the world during this difficult time. Celebration of Life A Celebration of Life honoring Brady will be held on September 16, 2026, at the American Legion, Post 166 in Ocean City, Maryland. Friends and family are invited to attend and share their memories.
AUGUST 21, 2026
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Berlin receives $1.4 million for community center space By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Aug. 21, 2026) Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) visited the Eastern Shore this week and stopped in Berlin to present a check for $1.4 million to the town for its community center initiative. Berlin officials announced in January that the Berlin Community Center project received a $1.4 million federal grant through the Fiscal Year 2026 Agricultural, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. The funds, administered through the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development, will help launch the first phase of Berlin’s community center project. The money will pay for work such as site preparation, project design, and future construction for SHORE UP, Inc. programming and facilities. Van Hollen and Sen. Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.) requested and secured the federal funding. In April, the Berlin Town Council advanced the project by approving a local funding match of $7,000 required to secure the $1.4 million in federal support. Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall confirmed at that time that the municipality’s contribution would come from its community center fund. The project has taken shape over the past few years, beginning with the acquisition of four parcels of property on Flower Street to be used as the site for the center. That milestone was achieved through a collaboration between the Town of Berlin, the Berlin Community Improvement Association (BCIA), SHOREUP! Inc., and the Worcester County Commissioners. Van Hollen spoke about the project’s importance last Thursday “This is the vision,” he said. “…It is a vision of a community center taking shape at this historic site. This historic site of Flower Street School … It was also a school that was operating during the painful period of segregation so the community center will tell part of that story. “But the best part of the story is the end of the story. The story is bringing people together to build opportunities for every person … It’s wonderful that we’ve got the after-school programs and … computers, hopefully an aquatic center. A place for people to come together from all ages and all backgrounds and to build opportunities for the next generation.” The senator thanked town officials and other project advocates. “You did all the work, you laid out the vision,” Van Hollen added. “We at the federal level, we like to take our lead from the folks in the community … We are very pleased to be here for the start of this project and look forward to coming back one day when this vision rises out of the ground.” Last summer, Daniele Haley of Haley Architecture presented a community
center feasibility study. The wish list for the facility includes a pool for high school competitive swim meets, water aerobics classes, and lesson; a gymnasium for events and indoor sports; a fitness room; an indoor walking track; a health services station for physicals, vision, and hearing exams; special event spaces; a technology lab; a community kitchen; Head Start program classrooms and Head Start spaces, kitchen, and offices. If the building incorporates every desire, the project would cost over $30 million. Haley noted during her presentation that the wish list would be scaled back from the pricey endeavor but would still meet the community’s needs. The federal funds will allow the project’s first phase, or preconstruction, to commence.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) visited Berlin last week, where he presented officials with a check for $1.4 million. The funds, awarded earlier this year, will help with the town’s community center.
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OC Today-Dispatch
AUGUST 21, 2026
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AUGUST 21, 2026
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OC Today-Dispatch
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AUGUST 21, 2026
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Scouts Jack Tignor and Anders Clarke received the Wiessner Foundation Grant from Paula Harris. Also pictured is Skip Carlson, assistant scoutmaster.
(Aug. 21, 2026) Young people participating in Scouting in Worcester County will benefit from a $6,000 grant from the Wiessner Foundation to Friends of Troop 225 for the purchase of a new enclosed equipment trailer. Representatives of the Wiessner Foundation recently joined members of Berlin’s Troop 225 for a check presentation recognizing the grant and the foundation’s support of local youth. The new trailer will be used to store and transport the tents, cooking equipment, camping supplies, program materials, and other gear required for the troop’s camping trips, outdoor programs, and community service activities. Based in Berlin and chartered by the Berlin Lions Club, Troop 225 provides young people with opportunities to develop leadership, teamwork, preparedness, outdoor skills, confidence, and a commitment to community service. The new trailer will allow the troop to more efficiently transport its equipment to camps, service projects, and Scouting activities throughout the region. “We are extremely grateful to the Wiessner Foundation for this generous $6,000 grant,” said Gerald “Skip” Carlson, assistant scoutmaster and member of Friends of Troop 225. “This is much more than an equipment purchase. It is an investment in the experiences and opportunities we can provide our Scouts for years to come.” Carlson said the support also provides an important example to the Scouts themselves. “Having our Scouts participate in the check presentation allows them to see firsthand that people and organizations in their community believe in them and believe in Scouting,” he said. Friends of Troop 225 thanked the Wiessner Foundation and its board for its commitment to programs benefiting young people and for helping ensure that Troop 225 can continue providing meaningful outdoor, leadership, and service experiences.
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OC Today-Dispatch
AUGUST 21, 2026
Arts Council to hold juried show (Aug. 21, 2026) The Worcester County Arts Council is seeking entries for “Artist’s Voice,” a juried exhibition celebrating its 50th anniversary. Open to photographers and three-dimensional artists, the exhibition will be on view Sept. 1 through Nov. 1, at the Worcester County Arts Council Gallery in Berlin. “Artist’s Voice” celebrates the ways artists express their perspectives, experiences, and ideas. Artists are encouraged to submit work that reflects their individual creative voice through photography or three-dimensional media, including sculpture, ceramics, wood, fiber, glass, metal, mixed media, and other original 3-D works. The Arts Council is welcoming two accomplished artists who will serve as jurors for the competition. Don Lehman, a local fine artist and commercial photographer, will judge photography entries. Bill Wolff, associate professor and head of the sculpture program at Salisbury University and Chair of the Art Department, will judge three-dimensional entries. Artwork drop-off will take place Aug. 25–27, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Worcester County Arts Council Gallery located at 6 Jefferson Street in Berlin. For complete entry guidelines, visit: www.worcestercountyartscouncil.o rg.
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OC Today-Dispatch
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AUGUST 21, 2026
COMMUNITY BRIEFS
Fellow announced (Aug. 21, 2026) Worcester County Public Schools (WCPS) Coordinator of Facilities, Energy Management, and Grants Dr. Brian Cook has been selected as a 2026–2027 School Air Quality Fellow by the Center for Green Schools at the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). Cook was chosen through a highly competitive national application process, earning recognition for both his leadership and WCPS’ commitment to providing safe, healthy, and sustainable learning environments. The School Air Quality Fellowship equips school facilities leaders with the training, technical assistance, and professional resources needed to improve indoor air quality and energy efficiency in schools. Throughout the fellowship, Cook will receive personalized coaching, collaborate with peers from across the country, attend national conferences, and have the opportunity to pursue grant funding of up to $30,000 to support air quality initiatives within the school system. The fellowship runs from September 2026 through May 2027. “This recognition is a reflection of Dr. Cook’s unwavering commitment to creating learning environments where every student and staff member can thrive,” said Dr. Annette Wallace, Superintendent of WCPS. “Healthy schools are foundational to student success, and Brian’s selection places Worcester County Public Schools among a distinguished group
of school districts leading the way in advancing healthier, more sustainable educational facilities. We are incredibly proud of his achievement and excited for the knowledge, partnerships, and opportunities this fellowship will bring back to our schools.” Cook oversees facilities planning, energy management, capital improvement projects, and grant initiatives across Worcester County Public Schools. His work has helped position the school system as a statewide leader in sustainable facility design, energy efficiency, and innovative capital planning, while ensuring students and staff have access to safe, modern learning environments. “I am honored to be selected as a School Air Quality Fellow and grateful for the opportunity to learn alongside facilities professionals from across the country,” said Cook. “This fellowship will strengthen the work already underway in Worcester County Public Schools and provide valuable tools and partnerships that will help us continue improving the health, safety, and efficiency of our schools for years to come.” The Center for Green Schools Fellowship supports school districts in developing long-term strategies to improve indoor air quality while fostering healthier, more resilient, and energy-efficient school buildings. Fellowship participants receive ongoing technical assistance and become part of a national network of school facilities professionals committed to advancing healthy learning envi-
Spacious Dining Room
ronments.
Road work planned The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (SHA) has begun a resurfacing project on Route 12 (Snow Hill Road) from Route 113 Business (Market Street) to Nassawango Road in Worcester County. The work started Monday, Aug. 10, and is anticipated to be complete by November, weather permitting. Drivers can expect daytime single-lane closures Mondays through Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., as crews begin the milling and resurfacing operations, according to an SHA news release. During work hours, motorists can expect single-lane closures and flagging operations throughout the duration of the project. The SHA’s contractor, Allan Myers, of Fallston, Md., will use arrow boards, cones, and flaggers to safely guide motorists through the work zone. The single -ane closures will be in place until the project has been completed “The State Highway Administration appreciates customers’ patience during construction as we work to improve Maryland’s transportation system,” a news release reads. “Drivers are asked to stay alert, stay focused and be aware of reduced speed limits and changing driving patterns in the work zone. Slow Down and move over in work zones. It’s the law.”
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AUGUST 21, 2026
Beach to Bay gets $40K for heritage area assessment (Aug. 21, 2026) The Beach to Bay Heritage Area (BBHA) has been awarded a $40,000 Maryland Agricultural Education and Rural Development Assistance Fund (MAERDAF) grant from the Rural Maryland Council (RMC) to support Phase II of its National Heritage Area (NHA) designation feasibility study. The Rural Maryland Council brings together citizens, community-based organizations, government officials, and representatives of the nonprofit and private sectors to address the needs and opportunities of Maryland’s rural communities. Through the MAERDAF grant program, the Rural Maryland Council provides capacity-building support to rural-serving nonprofit organizations that work tirelessly to advance economic and community development, regional planning, agricultural and forestry education, energy initiatives, and youth engagement and leadership development. “National Heritage Area designation could be transformational for the Lower Eastern Shore,” said Lisa Challenger, Executive Director of the Beach to Bay Heritage Area. “This investment from the Rural Maryland Council allows us to take the next important step toward understanding how we can use our extraordinary cultural, historic, and natural resources to strengthen rural communities, attract visitors, support local businesses, and leverage additional state and federal resources.” BBHA has begun the process of pursuing National Heritage Area designation in partnership with stakeholders throughout Maryland and Delaware’s Eastern Shore. The effort includes a twoyear feasibility study conducted in two phases to evaluate the region’s eligibility, readiness, resources, partnerships, and capacity for NHA designation. Consultants already completed Phase I, which included project initiation, development of the planning structure, orientation and listening tours, preliminary historic and cultural assessments and stakeholder engagement. Phase II, supported in part by the $40,000 MAERDAF award, will build upon the findings of Phase I through additional resource assessment, development of a nationally significant theme, continued public and stakeholder engagement, boundary analysis, organizational capacity evaluation, and preparation of the comprehensive feasibility study report. National Heritage Areas are designated by Congress and administered through the National Park Service. They bring together communities, nonprofit organizations, governments, businesses, and heritage partners to preserve nationally significant landscapes while supporting education, heritage tourism, economic development, and community revitalization.
OC Today-Dispatch
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Dining Guide ■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$ ■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted —————————————
DOWNTOWN
South end to 28th Street ■ BUXY’S SALTY DOG SALOON DRY DOCK 28 28th Street, Ocean City, 410-289-0973, buxys.com, drydockoc.com Destiny has a new home in Ocean City. From the ‘burgh to the beach, Buxy’s is your home away from Pittsburgh. Come see what all the locals already know and have known – Buxy’s is the place to come to meet friends, relax and be social with no attitudes. House specialties include “The” Cheesesteak Sub, Primanti-styled sandwiches, pierogis, egg-rolls and homemade crab dip. Dry Dock also features a full menu with soups, salads, kick starters, pierogis and craft pizza. ■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE 15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, in The Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City 410-2897192, captainstableoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar A local tradition for over 60 years featuring hand cut steaks, premium lobster and perfectly prepared regional seafood. Breakfast daily 7:30-11 a.m. Open daily for dinner: Sunday through Thursday, 4-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4-10 p.m. Happy Hour, seven days a week, 4-6 p.m. ■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT 28th Street Plaza and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100, www.coinspuboc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar American style local restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. Sunday’s early bird specials, all day and all night. Happy Hour; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. with food and drink specials. Open Monday through Friday, 2 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 11:30 a.m. Dinein, carry out. ■ CORAL REEF RESTAURANT & BAR 17th Street in the Holiday Inn & Suites, Ocean City 410-289-2612, coralreefrestaurant.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Enjoy traditional Eastern Shore cuisine and local favorites that are sure to please your entire party! Choose from a selection of house specialty entrees such as sharables, handhelds and seafood. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Featuring specialty rums. Open daily, 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. ■ DISTRICT 24: BLUE CRABHOUSE& RAW BAR, JAY’S CAFÉ, CRAFT BEER & 1945 STEAK & SEAFOOD HOUSE 2305 Philadelphia Ave, Ocean City 410289-3322, district24oc.com $$-$$$ | Reservations | Kids’ Menu | Full bar Nestled on 24th Street Bayside in Ocean City, Maryland, District 24 stands as one destination brimming with endless possibilities. On the first floor, Blu Crabhouse & Raw Bar invites you to indulge in all-you-can-eat blue crabs, easy-peel shrimp, golden fried chicken, and so much more, while Jay’s Café serves breakfast sandwiches all day alongside La Colombe coffee, fresh pastries, and delicious lunch creations. Just steps away, CRAFT Bar delivers smash burgers, crispy wings, craft pizzas, an impressive selection of craft beer, handcrafted cocktails, and more. Rising above it all on the third floor, the stunning new 1945 Steak & Seafood offers breathtaking rooftop views, in-house hand-cut chops, exceptional seafood favorites, vibrant Mediterranean cuisine, and thoughtful bourbon and wine pairings. Let’s face it—there’s simply more at District 24. ■ FISH TALES 2107 Herring Way, Ocean City, 410-2890990, ocfishtales.com Bayfront marina dining offered here with a
huge menu to satisfy guests of all ages. Enjoy a drink from a hanging chair or fish tacos at your table while the kids play in a playground build in the sand. Food and drink menus offer enough of a variety to meet all needs. ■ HARBOR WATCH 806 S. Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City 410289-5121, www.harborwatchrestaurant.com $$-$$$ | Reservations | Kids’ Menu | Full bar Celebrating our 42nd year with fresh seafood, an award-winning raw bar, mouthwatering steaks and the best view of the Ocean City Inlet and Assateague Island. Open every day, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Raw Bar Happy Hour Monday through Thursday from 2-6 p.m. Call for banquet and large-party details. ■ PICKLES PUB 706 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 410289-4891, picklesoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Easy to find with plenty of free parking, serving lunch, dinner and entire diverse menu until 1 a.m. Also nightly entertainment yearround and a great place to watch all the sports on an ocean of televisions including a giant high-def screen. Also four pool tables on site. Lunch and dinner and entire menu until 1 a.m. Open all year from 11:30 a.m.-2 a.m., seven days a week. ■ PIT & PUB 2706 Philadelphia Ave. and 12701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, pitandpub.com Ocean City’s home of Pulled Pork and the finest barbecue, the legendary 28th Street Pit & Pub and the Northside Pit & Pub are known for serving up delicious smokehouse specialties. Grab a brew and enjoy the live sports action on one of the big screen TVs. Happy hour daily. Family-friendly atmospheres at both locations. Weekend entertainment. ■ THE WEDGE BAR 806 S. Atlantic Ave, Ocean City www.thewedgeoc.com $-$$ | Full bar Panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, bay and Assateague Island. Enjoy small plates, sandwiches and grilled burgers. Open every day, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
MIDTOWN
29th to 90th streets ■ 32 PALM 32nd Street in The Hilton, Ocean City 410289-2525, 32palm.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Elevated cuisine, locally sourced ingredients and allocated spirits are prominently featured in our lounge and dining room. Open year-round for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Routinely updated menus with the highest quality local ingredients for fresh seafood any time of the year! ■ THE BONFIRE 71st Street, Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, 410524-7171, thebonfirerestaurant.com Celebrating more than 50 years as the best seafood and prime rib buffet in Ocean City. It’s all here – the service, the atmosphere and finest, freshest seafood available and quality meats. Save room for the decadent desserts available as well including homemade donuts. ■ COCONUTS BEACH BAR & GRILL 3701 Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 410-2896846, castleinthesand.com A tropical open-air patio steps from the beach. A unique place for lunch or dinner with a menu featuring all the customary items and a few Ocean City-based surprises. Guests can also enjoy beach service for lunch and cocktails. Be sure to check out the daily entertainment schedule. ■ FAGERS ISLAND 201 60th St., Ocean City, 410-524-5500, fagers.com $$ | Full bar Dine on the island with an award-winning bayfront restaurant featuring American & Re-
AUGUST 21, 2026
gional dining with a global influence and popular destination featuring impeccably prepared American and Pacific Rim cuisine. Also enjoy our outdoor decks and bar with live entertainment and 32 wines by the glass. A place where the joy of food & the presence of the table are of utmost importance. Dine on fresh seafood and our famous Prime Rib. Enjoy beautiful sunsets over the water. Open 11 a.m. daily. Fine dine at 4:30 p.m. ■ HOOKED 8003 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410723-4665, hookedoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar A Common Ground Hospitality concept, a passion driven restaurant group servicing the coastal community. The goal is honor creativity and innovation by design. With passion at the heart of everything, unique dining concepts are paired with honest hospitality and well-made food sourced with fresh local ingredients and seasonal harvests. Craft and full bar available. Open daily 11:30 a.m. ■ LONGBOARD CAFÉ 6701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 443664-5693, longboardcafe.com $$-$$$ | Full bar Casual Dining … Refined. Open for lunch and dinner. A wide range of gourmet burgers, innovative tacos, salads and sandwiches to full dinner entrees featuring fresh local fish prepared in a variety of styles, beef, shellfish and pasta. All our sauces, salsas, dressings, etc. are meticulously house made. We use fresh local sources wherever possible and premium ingredients such as our chuck, brisket and short rib custom blended burgers. Closed Tuesday. Call for reservations. ■ MARLIN MOON RESTAURANT 3301 Atlantic Ave., in the Double Tree Hotel, Ocean City 410-289-1201, marlinmoonocmd.com $$ | Full bar Winner of the Maryland People's choice award, Marlin Moon continues to offer its famous, locally loved dishes and famous happy hour. Enjoy creatively crafted cocktails, fresh selections from the raw bar and luscious desserts. Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m., featuring drink specials. Breakfast, 7:30-11:30 a.m.; Lite Fare, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Dinner, 4-10 p.m.; and Bar open noon to 11 p.m. ■ SEACRETS 49th Street, Ocean City 410-524-4900, www.seacrets.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Open Sunday through Friday at 11 a.m., 10 a.m. on Saturdays, close at 2 a.m. Enjoy a tropical atmosphere and dine under the palms in our outdoor, kid friendly dining area or try a Seacrets Beachin' Cocktails in the Bay with live music every day open to close. The club is open every night in the summer. Try our famous jerk chicken with homemade honey mustard sauce, Pushcart Trio, a true Jamaican dish or a hearty wrap, sandwich or delicious burger. We have it all at Seacrets.
UPTOWN
91st to 146th streets ■ ALBERTINO'S BRICK OVEN & EATERY 13117 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410250-2000, albertinosoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Featuring the best brick oven pizza, always handmade with fresh ingredients, ItalianAmerican mouth-watering seafood specialties, traditional Italian pasta dishes, apps, soups and salads. Full bar with large local craft beer selection. ■ THE CRAB BAG 13005 Coastal Highway Ocean City, 410250-3337, thecrabbag.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Featuring consistent hot steamed crabs, eat in or carryout. The Crab Bag is also an Eastern Shore style seafood house specializing in preparing and serving the biggest and the best blue crabs available. The extensive menu promises something for everyone. Winter hours, Friday-Sunday, open 11 a.m. ■ CRABCAKE FACTORY USA 120th Street, oceanside, Ocean City, 410250-4900, crabcakefactoryusa.com Full-service family restaurant, carry-out and sports bar. Outside seating available. Menu
selections include prime rib, chicken Chesapeake, steamed shrimp, beer battered fish, real Philly cheesesteaks, burgers, and a kids menu. Casual attire, full liquor bar, no reservations. Open Year Round. World-Famous Crabcakes are served all day starting at 8 a.m. and can be packed on ice for you while you are eating breakfast.
FENWICK ISLAND ■ DIRTY HARRY’S 100 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-539-3020, Beach-net.com/dirtyharrys $ | Kids’ Menu | Full bar Don’t let the name fool you, the food is home cooking at its finest. Owned and operated by Ginny Swann and family for 20 years. Voted Best Top 5 Bakeries in Delaware. Popular for the breakfast but getting rave reviews for lunch and dinner, too. ■ NANTUCKETS Route 1, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-5392607, nantucketsrestaurant.com Serving the beach great food and spirits for over 30 years. David and Janet Twining will wow you with the finest foods and drinks in the area. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by what one of the coast’s finest dining establishments has in store for guests. Everything here is a house specialty. ■ TWINING’S LOBSTER SHANTY Rte. 54, Fenwick Island, Del., 302-4362305, twiningshanty.com Reservations | Kids’ Menu “A funky little place at the edge of town.” Classic New England fare, lobsters, steaks and burgers. Bird watching and magical sunsets await. Open for lunch and dinner. Reservations are suggested.
WEST OCEAN CITY ■ BREAKFAST CAFE 12736 Ocean Gateway, Route 50 east, West Ocean City, 410-213-1804, breakfastcafeofoc.com All the traditional breakfast options available here in a casual, diner setting. Open daily closing at 2 p.m. ■ CANTINA LOS AGAVES MEXICAN GRILL 12720 Ocean Gateway #7, West Ocean City 410-390-3914, cantinalosagaves.com $$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar Ocean City’s newest Mexican restaurant and bar. Offering delicious and generous portions of the tastiest traditional and not so traditional #MexicanEats you have ever tried. Open everyday, 12 noon to 9 p.m., kitchen and bar. ■ DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND West Ocean City: Route 50 east; Boardwalk locations: 501 S. Philadelphia Ave., 49th Street, 123rd Street, Ocean City, dumsersdairyland.com This classic ice cream shop is a tradition for many families. Voted O.C.’s “Best Ice Cream” for the past 20 years, Dumser’s is celebrating decades of serving the shore, and the ‘40s-style décor takes you back in time. With locations throughout Ocean City, treating your tastebuds to this signature homemade ice cream is easy. The 123rd Street location offers lunch and dinner menus in addition to a wide variety of ice cream treats. ■ HARBORSIDE BAR & GRILL 12841 Harbor Rd., West Ocean City, 410213-1846, weocharborside.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Home of the original Orange Crush drink with an extensive menu offers a wide variety of appetizers, fresh seafood, steak & pasta entrees, as well as juicy burgers and sandwiches. Whether seeking a full dining experience or just a crush or two, the team will be sure to take excellent care of you and yours. Monday-Wednesday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thursday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. ■ OC DINER 12744 Ocean Gateway, Rt 50 east, Ocean City 410-390-5112 $$ | Kids’ menu Family owned for over 25 years. Serving the best homemade food. Local’s favorite. Breakfast served all day. Kids’ menu. Dine-in and Carry-out. Open 7 days a week.
AUGUST 21, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
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Local woman self-publishes new romantic fantasy novel By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Aug. 21, 2026) A Worcester County woman has turned an idea that came to her during a long car ride into a published novel. Erin Timmons, daughter of Dumser’s Dairyland owner Don Timmons and a 2010 graduate of Worcester Preparatory School, self-published her debut book, “The Slayer’s Dragon,” on June 22. The new adult fantasy romance is now available through Amazon. After graduating from Worcester Prep, Timmons attended the Savannah College of Art and Design with plans to make graphic novels. But while working on “The Slayer’s Dragon,” she discovered that she enjoyed writing the story more than creating it as a sequential art experience. Timmons said the idea for the book came to her during the long drive from Florida to Maryland. “I was listening to music and an idea popped into my head and I let it grow from there the whole car ride,” Timmons said. “Thinking, who are these characters, how did they get here, where do they go from here? And it just kind of played out in my head.” When she arrived home, she began writing. She completed the first draft in about a week and a half. Timmons started the project in 2018, but it was during the past two years that she returned to the story and worked toward completing it for publication. That process included hiring an editor, formatting the book, and creating a cover design. She found her editor, Jennifer Rees, through Reedsy, a website that connects authors with publishing professionals. Rees has also worked as an editor on books like the mega-hit, “The Hunger Games.” Timmons ultimately decided to self-publish through Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing after briefly exploring traditional publishing. “I did try traditional publishing, but I found that I really didn’t enjoy it,” she said. “You have to query an agent, and I found I didn’t enjoy that process.” Although self-publishing required Timmons to handle much of the process herself and hire professionals for various aspects of production, she said she preferred having control over her work. She hired a formatter to prepare the book for e-book, paperback, and hardcover editions. Timmons created the character art for the cover, while hiring someone to create the background art and prepare the final picture. She also relied on YouTube tutorials to learn how to navigate Amazon’s publishing platform. According to the novel’s synopsis
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SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
The cover of “The Slayer’s Dragon” is pictured, written by Worcester County woman Erin Timmons.
on Amazon, the story follows Briana, a self-proclaimed beast slayer who takes a dangerous job after her father becomes ill and she needs money to purchase his medicine. She is hired to kill a monster living in a castle, only to discover that the “monster” is actually a man named Westley. Westley is cursed to be a man at night and a dragon during the day. The two set off together on a dangerous journey as they attempt to discover who wants Westley dead. Timmons said that the book’s tone was inspired by “The Princess Bride” and Disney’s Renaissance era, but with a more PG-13 feel. “It is a new adult fantasy romance with plenty of humor in it,” she added. Timmons said the experience has also inspired her to continue writing. She has already completed a second book set in the same world. She is waiting to send it to an editor while family and friends read it and provide feedback. Timmons said that she hopes her experience will encourage other aspiring authors to consider self-publishing. “I really encourage people to look into self-publishing,” she said. “I know it doesn’t get quite as much attention as traditional publishing, especially in bookstores. From my experience, there’s some really good books out there and authors out there who are working really hard to self-publish.” “The Slayer’s Dragon” is available on Amazon. Timmons also has signed physical copies available at Dumser’s Dairyland on 123rd Street in Ocean City, where she works as a hostess. An audiobook edition is scheduled to be released on Amazon in September and will feature duet narration.
©2026 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire HomesServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of the HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.
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Who’s Where When BLU CRABHOUSE / DISTRICT 24 410-289-3322 24th Street Bayside Fri., Aug. 21: Dylan Canfield Sat., Aug. 22: Aaron Howell Duo Sun., Aug. 23: Adam McDonough BURLEY OAK BREWING COMPANY 443-513-4647 10016 Old Ocean City Blvd., Berlin Sat., Aug. 22: Fire & Raine Sun., Aug. 23: Overstreet
OC Today-Dispatch
AUGUST 21, 2026
Best Beats
DJ ROBCEE Fager’s Island: Fri., Aug. 21
On The Beach DARIN ENGH Coconuts Beach Bar: Fri., Aug. 21
BUXY’S SALTY DOG & DRY DOCK 28 410-289-BUXY 28th Street Coastal Hwy. Fri., Aug. 21: Steelers vs Jets Sat., Aug. 22: Full Circle Sundays: Locals Night w/ DJ DeoGee Wednesdays: Karaoke w/ DJ Nick Hundley Thurs., Aug. 27: Steelers vs Bills CAPTAIN’S TABLE 410-289-7192 15th & Boardwalk In The Courtyard Marriott Fridays & Saturdays: Phil Perdue
DJ BIGLER Harborside: Saturdays
THE 1974 Fager’s Island: Sunday, August 23 & Deck Party ~ Monday, August 24
CARIBBEAN POOL BAR 410-289-6181 In The Plim Plaza Hotel 109 N. Atlantic Ave. Fri., Aug. 21: Endless Ember & Royal Flush Sat., Aug. 22: Sketchbook & The Runner Ups Sun., Aug. 23: No Byscuyts & Liz & Steve Mon., Aug. 24: DJ Bobby O & Ryan Jackson Tues., Aug. 25: AJ Jesson & Wayne Blake Wed., Aug. 26: Ben Davis & Johnny Cardo Thurs., Aug. 27: Sketchbook & True Country (Solo) COCONUTS BEACH BAR 410-289-6846 Oceanfront At Castle In The Sand Hotel 37th & 38th Streets Fri., Aug. 21: Darin Engh & Bleech Sat., Aug. 22: On Center & Flip Side Band Sun., Aug. 23: Margot & Val & Monkee Paw Mon., Aug. 24: Sean Loomis & Rogue Citizens Tues., Aug. 25: Amber Hopkins & Lauren Glick Duo Wed., Aug. 26: Chris Diller & Castaway Band Thurs., Aug. 27: Shortcut Sunny & Full Circle COINS PUB 410-289-3100 28th Street Plaza On Coastal Hwy. Fri, Aug. 21: Risky Business Sat., Aug. 22: Jim Long & John Schwartz Sundays: DJ Wax Tues., Aug. 25: Sketchbook
PHIL PERDUE Captain’s Table: Fridays & Saturdays
KARAOKE W/ DJ NICK HUNDLEY Buxy’s: Wednesdays
DAWN WILLIAMS Crabcake Factory Bayside: Sun., Aug. 23
DJ BILLY T Harborside: Fridays & Wednesdays
PARTY FOWL Purple Moose: Friday & Saturday, August 21 & 22
JIM LONG Coins Pub: Saturdays
BEATS BY DEOGEE Pickles Pub: Fridays Buxy’s Salty Dog: Sundays
AMISH OUTLAWS Seacrets: Thursday, August 27
DJ MARY JANE Purple Moose: Fri., Aug. 21 Seacrets: Sat., 22
CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE 302-988-5000 37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54, Selbyville, DE Fri., Aug. 21: AJ & RyMac Sun., Aug. 23: Dawn Williams Tues., Aug. 25: C-Miller Wed., Aug. 26: Wayne Blake FAGER’S ISLAND 410-524-5500 60th St., In The Bay Fri., Aug. 21: DJ RobCee, Big Machine & Vertigo Red Sat., Aug. 22: Mark Bray & The SSC, DJ DNIAL & Here’s To The Night
JOHNNY CARDO Caribbean Pool Bar: Wed., Aug. 26
FULL CIRCLE Buxy’s Dry Dock 28: Saturday, August 22 Seacrets: Wednesday, August 26 (Duo) Coconuts Beach Bar: Thursday, August 27
DJ WAX Coins Pub: Sun., Aug. 23 Fager’s Island: Mon., Aug. 24 Pickles Pub: Tuesdays Fish Tales: Wednesdays
AUGUST 21, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 43
Who’s Where When Sun., Aug. 23: The 1974 & DJ NikNax Mon., Aug. 24: Deck Party - DJ Wax, The 1974, The Cover Up & DJ Stinson Tues., Aug. 25: Saltwater Sweat Line Dancing Wed., Aug. 26: DJ Hector & Lowercase Blues Thursdays: DJ Groove & Risky Business
THE SUPERVILLAINS W/ MILTON J Pickles Pub: Friday, August 21 (Ticket Event)
ROYAL FLUSH Caribbean Pool Bar: Friday, August 21
FISH TALES 410-289-0990 22nd Street & The Bay Sat., Aug. 22: Joe & Rachel Wood Sun., Aug. 23: Josh Pryor Wednesdays: DJ Wax HARBORSIDE 410-213-1846 South Harbor Rd., West End O.C. Fridays: DJ Billy T Sat., Aug. 22: Dunehounds & DJ Bigler Sundays: Opposite Directions & Sketchbook Wednesdays: DJ Billy T Thursdays: Dust N Bones
IDENTITY CRISIS Jolly Jellyfish: Sunday, August 23
LOWERCASE BLUES Fager’s Island: Wednesday, August 26
MARGOT & VAL Coconuts Beach Bar: Sunday, August 23
BOOGIEMEN The Wedge: Tuesday, August 25
DUNEHOUNDS Harborside: Saturday, August 22
GO GO GADJET Seacrets: Thursday, August 27
AJ & RYMAC Crabcake Factory Bayside: Friday, August 21
BOND & BENTLEY Pickles Pub: Saturday, August 22
JOLLY JELLYFISH BEACH CLUB 443-664-6147 98th Street Coastal Hwy., Plaza Condominium Fri., Aug. 21: Beach Bandits Sat., Aug. 22: Chris Diller Band Sun., Aug. 23: Identity Crisis Mon., Aug. 24: First Class Tues., Aug. 25: Soul Chase Wed., Aug. 26: Joe Mama & Friends Thurs., Aug. 27: Lennon & The Leftovers PICKLES PUB 410-289-4891 8th Street & Philadelphia Ave. Frid., Aug. 21: Beats By DeoGee & The Supervillains w/ Milton J (Ticket Event) Sat., Aug. 22: Bond & Bentley Mon., Aug. 24: Karaoke w/ Wood Tuesdays: Beats By Wax Thursdays: Beats By Connair PURPLE MOOSE SALOON 410-289-6953 Between Caroline & Talbot Streets On The Boards Fri., Aug. 21: Party Fowl & DJ Mary Jane Sat., Aug. 22: Party Fowl & DJ Papi Sun., Aug. 23: Chris Diller Trio (2pm) & DJ Noah Selt Mondays & Thursdays: DJ Papi Tuesdays: DJ Catdaddy Wednesdays: DJ Rellew SEACRETS 410-524-4900 49th Street & Coastal Hwy. Fri., Aug. 21: DJ J-Spinz, DJ E-State, DJ Davie, Tommi Boi, The Wayouts & Kristen & The Noise Sat., Aug. 22: DJ J-Spinz, DJ Bobby O, DJ Mary Jane, Shredded Cheddar, Lost In Paris & Garden State Radio Sun, Aug. 23: DJ Davie, Triple Rail Turn, DJ Cheech & Lost In Paris Mon., Aug. 24: Blake Haley & DJ E-State Tues., Aug. 25: Opposite Directions & DJ J-Spinz Wed., Aug. 26: DJ E-State & Full Cicle Duo Thurs, Aug. 27: Faith Noel, DJ E-State, Go Go Gadjet & Amish Outlaws THE WEDGE 410-289-5121 806 S. Atlantic Ave. Tues., Aug. 25: Boogiemen
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OC Today-Dispatch
AUGUST 21, 2026
SUMMER SALE IS HAPPENING NOW! Shop your favorite brands on sale now!
Anchor Boys & Quiet Storm Button Ups 50% OFF!
Anchor Boys & Quiet Storm Swim 50% OFF!
Nalu Kai Swim Now 50% OFF!
OCEAN CITY / REHOBOTH / VIRGINIA BEACH / CHARLESTON / HILTON HEA
OC Today-Dispatch
AUGUST 21, 2026
SUN’S OUT, SALES ON! Soak up the sun and savings!
The Big Summer Sale!* Branded Apparel Summer Sale NOW 25% OFF!
• Unisex Fleece $20 OFF* • Women’s Fleece $20 OFF* • Men’s Hybrids $20 OFF* • Men’s Vollies 50% OFF* • Men’s Button Ups 50% OFF* • S/S T-Shirts $5 OFF* • Sandals 50%OFF* Men’s & Women’s Styles
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• Hats $10 OFF* NOW OPEN: MIDTOWN 75th STREET 410-847-7000 123rd STREET / 410-390-5603 THE BOARDWALK / 410-289-7000 Shop your Quiet Storm favorites online @ QuietStorm.com The Big Summer Sale applies to our Quiet Storm gear only.* New Quiet Storm Mock necks excluded from promotions. Brands excluded from sale: All Fall merchandise, Vuori & Free People.
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PAGE 45
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OC Today-Dispatch
AUGUST 21, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
AUGUST 21, 2026
WCPS announces two appointments for coordinators (Aug. 21, 2026) The Worcester County Board of Education approved two leadership appointments at Tuesday’s meeting, naming Melarie Brown as Coordinator of Professional Learning and Talent Development and Nicholas Genovesi as Coordinator of Instruction for Digital Learning, Computer Science, and Technology Education. Both appointments are effective immediately. Brown returns to Worcester County Public Schools (WCPS) after most recently serving as Disability Support Services and Innovation Grant Administrator at Wor-Wic Community College. In that role, she oversaw a federal grant, coordinated multidisciplinary partnerships, analyzed program outcomes, managed project resources and reporting, and supported professional development and training initiatives. Brown previously spent six years with WCPS, serving as Community School Liaison at Snow Hill Middle School during the 2024-2025 school year and as a kindergarten teacher at Showell Elementary School from 2019 to 2024. Brown earned a Doctorate of Educational Leadership from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore in 2024, completing research focused on elementary teachers’ perceptions of leadership practices and their effect on employee morale. Genovesi brings more than 15 years of experience in education to his new role, including the past six years as WCPS District Coach of Instructional Technology and Innovation. In that position, he has led work involving device purchasing and management, development and implementation of the school system’s Technology Strategic Plan, instructional technology coaching, and professional learning for educators. Prior to moving into his districtwide role, Genovesi taught English at Stephen Decatur Middle and Pocomoke High schools. He is also an Apple Distinguished Educator and Apple Learning Coach and has participated in Salisbury University’s Academy for Leadership in Education. “We are excited to welcome Nick and Melarie into these important leadership roles,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Annette Wallace said. “Both bring a strong understanding of teaching and learning along with experiences that align incredibly well with the work ahead. Nick has already been instrumental in advancing technology and digital learning across our school system, and Melarie brings a unique combination of classroom experience, leadership development and a deep understanding of how we support and grow our people. I look forward to seeing the impact they will make for our students and staff across Worcester County.”
PAGE 47
GRACE MASTEN, CRS, SRES, BROKER/OWNER LICENSED IN MD & DE ERIK DOWELL, REALTOR
AT NORTH BEACH, REALTORS
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410.250.4433
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Fabulous 1 Bedroom, 1.5 Baths 3rd floor with elevator $424,900
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Beautiful home in the North Gate of Ocean Pines featuring 3 Bedrooms, 2 Full Baths, Screened Porch, Central Heat/AC, Community Pools/Tennis/Golf. $379,900
1 Bedroom 1 Bath with Ocean View $289,000
Grace@NorthBeachRealtors.com • www.NorthBeachRealtors.com
Send Us Your Best
Kids Of Summer Have Your Child Appear In Our 21st Annual
Kids Of Summer FEATURES ON AUGUST 28 & SEPTEMBER 4 That’s when we will publish all the kids’ photos we receive. Just make sure it’s in color and a high-quality image. EMAIL PHOTOS TO: EDITOR@OCTODAYDISPATCH.COM Be Sure To Include Full Name, Age And Location
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PAGE 48
OC Today-Dispatch
AUGUST 21, 2026
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Corn fritter pancakes with syrup By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer (Aug. 21, 2026) Cooking is a constant exploration that opens the door to endless possibilities from the chef’s point of view. Imperative for success is imagination. It’s still summer, for instance, farmers markets are still flourishing and highlight the theme of farm to table. Gorgeous produce, homemade jams, and fresh eggs are just a sampling of the offerings. Farmers markets are more popular than ever and changing consumers outlook on traditional grocery shopping. Farmers markets can offer farmers increased profits by selling directly to consumers: there is less handling, transportation, refrigeration, and less storage. This also means cheaper process for the consumer. Also, the outdoor market reduces the cost of land, buildings, lighting, and air-conditioning. The neighborhood also benefits from farmers markets. Market traffic generates commerce for nearby businesses. It also helps maintain important social ties by way of linking fellow citizens in a mutually rewarding exchange. Most of the money gained at farmers markets stay in the community.
Consumers favor farmers market for fresher, healthier foods, and a place to enjoy the nice weather while browsing through the different venders. Also, the overall social atmosphere is a pleasant change from the hustle and bustle of a typical work week. Sweet corn is one of the most popular vegetables during the summer. Boiled, steamed, or grilled always takes top honors. The Chesapeake Bay is known for steamed crabs, buttered corn, and crisp hush puppies. Consider hot crabs and crispy corn fritters as another option. Corn fritters have much more flavor than plain hush puppies and still retain the coveted crunchy exterior. Corn fritters also make delicious savory pancakes. Fresh corn, tricolored peppers, and a hint of garlic give the cakes substance which is perfect for the transition from summer to fall. A sweet and spicy syrup is as easy as it gets. Combine your favorite syrup with cayenne pepper to taste. Garnish the cakes with powdered sugar and you have an Eastern Shore favorite. Corn fritter pancakes with a sweet and savory syrup are old-fashioned goodness. Sometimes the simplest pairing makes the biggest impression. Enjoy!
Sweet and Savory Syrup 2 cups favorite syrup cayenne pepper to taste 1. Combine ingredients in a small bowl. If syrup is served warm, the flavors are more pronounced. This step is optional. Corn Fritters 1 cup flour 1/2 cup cornmeal 2 tablespoons sugar 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1 cup whole milk 2 large eggs 3 cups fresh corn 1/4 cup finely chopped tri-colored peppers 1 scallion, finely chopped 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley canola oil for cooking pancakes powdered sugar for a garnish 1. In a large bowl, mix all of the dry ingredients. 2. In a separate small bowl, whisk the eggs and milk. 3. Add the milk mixture to the dry ingredients. 4. Fold in the veggies and mix until thoroughly combined
5. In a large skillet, heat canola oil to medium to medium-high. You want a thin layer of oil; you are not frying. You will have to keep adding oil as you go. 6. Using a large tablespoon, scoop a rounded tablespoon of batter into the skillet. You might want to test one first to make sure the oil is the right temperature. There is a fine line between just right and too hot. 7. Repeat this process to fill the pan. Do not overcrowd the pan with pancakes. 8. Once you see the edges turn a golden brown, it is time to turn. The most common mistake at this point is to undercook the pancakes. When in doubt, leave the cakes in the pan for an extra minute. 9. Stack the pancakes on the serving plate, pour the syrup on top of the pancakes, and generously garnish with powdered sugar. Secret Ingredient – Pancakes Give me soft, fluffy pancakes and I can get over anything. — Chrishell Stause
AUGUST 21, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
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OC Today-Dispatch
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Owen Pasquith, 7, in Ocean City
AUGUST 21, 2026
Jacob Grover, 14, and Jackson, 14 and Danika Gochenour, 11, in Ocean City
Skye Taylor, 5, in Ocean City
Rocco, 5, and Remi Rusnak, 2, in Ocean City
KIDS of the Summer (Part 1)
Aspen, 8, and Silas Fultz, 3, in Berlin
It’s our pleasure to keep the tradition alive and present our 21th Annual Kids of Summer photo series, featuring children of all ages, from near and far, enjoying all that comes with the summer season. If you would like your children featured in this space in the coming weeks, please email to editor@octodaydispatch.com with the his or her name, age and location.
On Assateague Island are Mason Miller, 3; Merrick Boden, 7; Mason Miller, 7; Riley Boden, 9; Sara Preziosi, 9; and front Aliya Preziosi, 3; Harper Miller, 6; and Noemi Preziosi, 6.
Kaden Taylor, 6, in Ocean City
Kayla, 10, and Sarah Taylor, 11, in Ocean City
Ja'mella Trader, 7, in Showell
Jayla Trader, 2, in Showell
Tennessee Waterman, 5, in Ocean City
Maggie, 10, and Caroline Fuson, 12, in the Bahamas
Elijah Donahue, 2, at Frontier Town water park
Elijah Donahue, 2, in Ocean City
Shelby Raynor, 7, in Ocean City
Makaila Keenan, 17, Colton Mann,10, and Julia Mann, 13, in Fruitland
Landon Lopes, 9, on Assateague Island
Hanon Christie, 13, eating lobster in Maine
Yunami Christie, 16, in Arizona
OC Today-Dispatch
AUGUST 21, 2026
PAGE 51
ON GUARD
Simple message: always swim near a stand By Kristin Joson Contributing Writer (Aug. 21, 2026) “Keep your feet in the sand until the lifeguard’s in the stand!” You’ll see this trademark slogan on lifeguard stands and signs all around Ocean City. It’s more than just a catchy phrase, it’s a lifesaving reminder. Swimming in unguarded water is never a good idea. In fact, a sobering statistic from Ocean City shows that 98% of all drowning deaths in the near 100-year history of the patrol happened when the
Beach Patrol was not on duty. Although this advice applies to pools, it is even more important when swimming in open water such as lakes, rivers, and oceans, which have uneven bottoms, changing currents, poor visibility, sudden drop-offs and changes in depth. These factors make RIP currents the 2nd leading cause of weather-related
death (last year), according to the National Weather Service (NOAA), ahead of lightning, tornados, and hurricanes (also sharks). Not only should you only swim when the Beach Patrol is on duty, but you need to swim in front of a guard, especially as we get later in our season and our stands are moving much further apart. When fully staffed we like to have our stands positioned about 195 yards apart, however, as you are reading this our stands are likely 400 yards apart (4 foot-
ball fields or ¼ mile), so swimming in front of a staffed chair is even more critical. Just because you can see the Surf Rescue Technician on the stand, does not mean that they can see you well enough to determine if you need assistance. I have noticed that people tend to leave their cares, concerns, and common sense behind them when they come to the beach. No one can blame them; vacationers have worked hard, and they simply want to enjoy their time by the See ON GUARD Page 52
LIKE US ON Licensed in MD, DE
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Just 2 blocks to the beach to Cell: 443-497-3128 Smilin4shore@comcast.net enjoy the sun, surf and sand! A top-floor unit with access to the private balcony from the living room, offering a canal view! Enjoy a breakfast bar, brand new range, bonus 2nd level with a 14’ x 14’ BR and a full bath. Just 500' from beautiful Northside Park, where the Town of OC features many events all season long! The perfect destination for vacation rentals and coastal getaways!
Check out this 3 BR, 2 BA getaway with happy vibes on a quaint street within walking distance to 6.6acre Park. Engineered hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings, split bedroom floor plan, granite countertops & a large center island are featured in the spacious and bright kitchen. The showcase of this home is definitely the huge rear 20’ x 14’ screened porch! Furnishings are negotiable.
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12089 ST. MARTINS NECK RD BISHOPVILLE • Custom-built 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath home with an open floor plan & soaring 10-foot ceilings. • Tucked away from the road on a private 5.41-acre retreat surrounded by nature. • Chef's kitchen features a Monogram gas range, pot filler, pantry, abundant cabinetry & breakfast area. • Impressive 40' x 60' metal outbuilding with electric & two 10-foot overhead doors, ideal for a workshop, storage, or recreational vehicles.
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Located in the quaint town of Historic Berlin! The extra-large lot creates a beautiful rear yard with mature shade trees. Each level contains a 3-bedroom, 1 bath apartment, totally renovated within the past 10 years. Large storage barn. Driveway parks 8 vehicles. Walk to all of the amazing attractions that Berlin offers. Both units are fully leased through Feb. & Mar. of 2027!
Walk to the golf club to start your tee time or grab a bite to eat! One level living with a single car garage, rear deck and a fantastic Sun Room with its own mini-split heat pump. Features include LVP flooring, Stainless Steel appliances, large breakfast bar, double pantry & a front loading washer and dryer.
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17 SUNDIAL CIRCLE OCEAN PINES
OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 52
AUGUST 21, 2026
ON GUARD Continued from Page 51 ocean. Most people believe that nothing bad is going to happen while they are on vacation and that they will never be the unfortunate victim of an accident or injury while enjoying a day at the beach. The possibility of a tragedy occurring with a loved one is the furthest thing from their mind when they choose to go swimming without a lifeguard. This fact unfortunately came true five summers ago when a man chose to go swimming at 7 p.m. after the Beach Patrol had long gone off duty and cleared the water of all swimmers. Caught in a RIP current the man was pulled into deep water as his wife and child watched helplessly. Beach Patrol members working evening mobile patrol were joined by off duty beach patrol SRT’s and Fire Department rescue swimmers and were able to locate his body, but resuscitation attempts were unsuccessful. Unfortunately, this was repeated again three summers ago at 8:40 p.m., over three hours after SRT’s had cleared the ocean and left for the day, as well as last spring, three weeks before we began guarding the beach. More recently an 18-year-old man drowned last year at Assateague Island National Seashore during the day while swimming on an unguarded beach as his family watched helplessly. While friends and family will forever be changed by such a preventable tragedy. Another alarming statistic is that when untrained individuals attempt to
“rescue” someone from the ocean, they frequently become victims themselves. This was reported six times last summer at other East Coast beaches and a few times this year in North Carolina and Florida. Although education is the first priority of the Beach Patrol mission and the press has dedicated time and resources to help us get these lifesaving messages out to you, many people just do not heed our advice and lives are lost and families devastated by the poor decisions of others. It is important to remember that the ocean is not just a fun place to spend a vacation, it is a natural, ever changing dynamic environment and like all natural phenomena, if it is not treated respectfully, it can be deadly. The ocean is constantly moving and changing. To the untrained eye it can look calm and safe, but currents on the calmest day can still be dangerous. Do not hesitate to approach the lifeguard and ask about water conditions. They enjoy answering questions and educating beach patrons and have received extensive training on being an ambassador. The Beach Patrol also enforces rules, ordinances, and regulations that I am sure some of you find bothersome, but each regulation has been put in place for a reason. The Beach Patrol is responsible for maintaining a safe, secure, and enjoyable environment for all of our visitors and ensuring that they may enjoy their vacation time. Please remember that if the lifeguard asks you to play ball at the back of the
beach, fill in a hole, move to a designated smoking area, turn your music down or move an umbrella out of their line of sight, they are doing this to ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable beach experience and can return for many more. Continuing from last summer, the Beach Patrol has been tasked with informing, educating and enforcing the tent ordinance. To assist with educating and enforcing ordinances, the town of Ocean City has created a new code enforcement position that is tasked with interacting with the public to assure compliance as well as increasing the potential fines to $5,000. So please help us out by knowing and following the local ordinances, so your SRT can
remain in the stand and not spend valuable time telling people about laws that in most cases they were already aware of. We hope you enjoy your time here in Ocean City. To help us keep you safe, always check in with the lifeguard on the stand and never enter the ocean when the Beach Patrol is not on duty. This is so important to us that every day at 5:30 p.m., lifeguards clear the water before leaving their posts. Follow their directions and never underestimate the incredible power of the ocean. Remember our slogan and share it with family, friends, or anyone whose life you value: “Keep your feet in the sand until the lifeguard’s in the stand!”
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Answers on page 55
AUGUST 21, 2026
PAGE 53
OC Today-Dispatch
HOROSCOPE ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Make the most of every opportunity that comes your way this week, Aries. You may not get many chances to test your mettle in the weeks to come, so it’s important to act now.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, something that started out as a part-time venture could turn into much more. Figure out if this is the path you see yourself going and then make your move.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Let loose and have fun for a change, Gemini. Don’t delay when others want to invite you out for a night on the town or even a brunch. Say “yes.”.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 There’s a lot going on right now and it may have your head spinning, Cancer. Delegate some of your workload if you can. Don’t be too hard on yourself.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
LIBERTY TREE PLANTED The General Levin Winder Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), in collaboration with the Nanticoke and Samuel Chase Chapters, recently dedicated a Liberty Tree in Salisbury University’s Glenda Chatham Clarke Arboretum in celebration of the nation’s Semiquincentennial. State Senator Mary Beth Carozza presented a senatorial proclamation and General Levin Winder Chapter Regent Betty-Jane (B.J.) Cain joined State Regent Deering and other distinguished guests in unveiling the accompanying plaque. Pictured, from left, are Deering, Cain, Glenda Chatham Clarke, SU President Carolyn Ringer Lepre, SU Director Horticulture & Grounds Frank Bowen, Carozza and Maryland SAR Third Vice President William Boston.
GRACE MASTEN, CRS, SRES, BROKER/OWNER LICENSED IN MD & DE ERIK DOWELL, REALTOR
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, it is important to remember that your online presence never goes away. Watch what you post and be mindful of what you support in social media groups.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
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Family matters require your undivided attention this week, Virgo. You must dig in deep to address them. There are two sides to every story.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, just when you started to lose hope, the new horizon you were seeking comes into view. It is well-deserved.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, if you find yourself with too much extra time on your hands, why not volunteer with the community to pass the time? This can be a great way to meet people.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 When plans change on a dime, you are ready to roll with the new situation, Sagittarius. Higher-ups may get a peek at your quick thinking, which can land you a promotion.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 It’s time to make amends with someone who did you wrong, Capricorn. Life is too short to hold grudges, and this person has since mended their ways.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Unless you take swift action, you could be heading for a financial freefall, Aquarius. Start to pull back spending for a while and see if the situation will right itself.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Pisces, you are on fire lately. There’s seemingly nothing you touch that isn’t turning to gold. This trend will continue, but try not to let it go to your head.
SELBYVILLE, DELAWARE
OCEAN PINES, MARYLAND
4 Bedroom, 3 Bath House $2300/Month + Utilities
WINTER RENTALS
3 Bedroom, 2 Bath House, Screened Porch $2300/Month + Utilities Beginning September 26th through April 30th Rental rates ranging from $995-$2,200/month
Grace@NorthBeachRealtors.com • www.NorthBeachRealtors.com
DIRECT OCEAN FRONT CONDO CAROUSEL RESORT • 4-WEEK OWNERSHIP of a 2 BEDROOM, 2 BATH UNIT • 21ST FLOOR CAROUSEL RESORT CONDOMINIUM • $19,900 These are not Time Shares but are a Simple Partnership. Complete with Indoor & Outdoor Pools, Ocean Front Restaurant, Health Spa & Ice Rink!
Joe Garliss Real Estate Broker 443-859-3210
PAGE 54
AUGUST 21, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
Calendar Submit calendar items to: editor@octodaydispatch.com. Submission deadline is 5 p.m. Monday, the week of publication. Local submissions have priority. Area event listings are subject to space availability.
Fri., Aug. 21
and other resources. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org
SPORT FISHING CHAMPIONSHIP ATLANTIC DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP
FREE KIDS CRAFT SATURDAYS
Youth of all ages 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., Aug. 24 BOARDWALK EAGLE HUNT
Sunset Marina, 12911 Sunset Ave., Ocean City. The three-day event offers fans and visitors a chance to experience world-class competitive sport fishing. https://sportfishingchampionship.com/events/atlanticchampionship-2026
BOARDWALK EAGLE HUNT
Ocean City Boardwalk, 698 N. Atlantic Ave., 12-8 p.m. Free activity for kids 12 years and younger. Pick up playing cards at participating merchants or the Information Booth. Find the plush eagles, get card stamped and return to receive an 8” plush eagle. 703-731-6515
P.E.P. CLUB BIRTHDAY PARTY
Ocean Pines Community Center White Horse Park Pavillion, 235 Ocean Parkway, 5-7 p.m. Hot dogs, potato chips and small desserts. All are welcome.
FANDOM FRIDAY: SUPERHEROES
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 9 a.m.5 p.m. Drop in any time for crafts, quizzes and discussions about the monthly topic. For ages 12-18 years. 410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org
Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Featuring “Tissue Paper Suncatchers.” Guided crafts led by friendly instructors. All supplies provided. Jessica Bauer, development@artleagueofoceancity.org, 410-524-9433
DEMOCRATIC WOMEN’S CLUB MEETING OCEAN PINES FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET
Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods. Also featuring family-friendly activities, music and unique shopping experiences. Open to the public, year round. 410-641-7052, https://www.oceanpines.org/web/pages /farmers-artisans-market
Sun., Aug. 23 SPORT FISHING CHAMPIONSHIP ATLANTIC DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP Sunset Marina, 12911 Sunset Ave., Ocean City. The three-day event offers fans and visitors a chance to experience world-class competitive sport fishing. https://sportfishingchampionship.com/ events/atlanticchampionship-2026
SUNDAES IN THE PARK WITH FIREWORKS OC MAHJONG CLUB
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Join in for a fun morning of playing tile Mahjong. Feel free to bring your own tile set. All adults are welcome. 410-5241818, worcesterlibrary.org
Sat., Aug. 22 SPORT FISHING CHAMPIONSHIP ATLANTIC DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP Sunset Marina, 12911 Sunset Ave., Ocean City. The three-day event offers fans and visitors a chance to experience world-class competitive sport fishing. https://sportfishingchampionship.com/ events/atlanticchampionship-2026
VETERANS STAND DOWN 50 COMMUNITY ASSISTANCE EVENT
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. The Department of Veterans Affairs connects at-risk and homeless veterans to counseling, health screenings, food, clothing
Ocean City Boardwalk, 698 N. Atlantic Ave., 12-8 p.m. Free activity for kids 12 years and younger. Pick up playing cards at participating merchants or the Information Booth. Find the plush eagles, get card stamped and return to receive an 8” plush eagle. 703-731-6515
Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 7-9 p.m. Featuring “Mike Hines and the Look: High Energy Dance Music.” Ice cream for purchase. Followed by fireworks. https://www.ococean.com/things-to-do/free-family-fun/ sundaes-in-the-park/
DOG ADOPTION NIGHT
Ocean Downs Casino, 10218 Racetrack Road, Berlin, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Held trackside during live racing. First post time: 6:40 p.m. Meet the dogs available from local humane societies. https://www.oceandowns.com/promotions/dog-adoption-nights-2/
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 9:30 a.m. The speaker is Monica Brooks, President Wicomico County NAACP. All are welcome. https://dwcmd.org/
BABY TIME
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Songs, stories and giggles. For ages 0-2 years. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org
STORY TIME: THE OCEAN
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Crafts, songs and stories. For ages 0-5 years. 410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org
TOPS OF BERLIN - GROUP #169
TidalHealth Atlantic, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 5-6:30 p.m. Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) is an educational group that promotes weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. Held weekly on Mondays. https://www.tops.org/home
ZUMBA
Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 4:30 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com
Sundays (May-October) - Pitts, Commerce and Main streets, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine. Producers only market, petting farm (9-11 a.m.), live music. www.TheBerlinFarmersMarket.com
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 Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6:00-8:00 p.m. All ladies who love to sing invited. If you plan to visit, please Contact: Director: Ludwig692@outlook.com, 410641-6876 or Membership Coordinator: ocelissa@yahoo.com, 410-641-8050.
SEWING SEEDS OF LOVE
Sundays - Buckingham Presbyterian Church, 20 S. Main St., Berlin, 10-11 a.m.
Tues., Aug. 25 OC KNITTING GROUP
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Bring whatever project you happen to be working on. 410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org
STORY TIME: DOWN ON THE FARM
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 10:30 a.m. Join in for a variety of stories, songs and activities. For ages 2-5 years. 410-957-0878, worcesterlibrary.org
STORY TIME
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Story time featuring seasonal themes designed to support early literacy skills with stores, songs and fingerplays. For ages 0-5 years. 410-641-0650, worcesterlibrary.org
MASTER GARDENERS PLANT CLINIC
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1-4 p.m. Bring any questions you have and feel free to show your plants as well. 410208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS SEAFOOD NIGHT
Columbus Hall, 9901 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Steamed crabs, crab cakes, fried seafood platters, and a menu for all is available. You must pre-order crabs by calling 410-524-7994 or visiting https://koc9053seafoodnights.square.site/.
BEACH HEROES-OC
Tuesdays - Volunteer beach clean-up group meets from 9-10 a.m., year-round. Trash bags, grabbers and gloves provided. Check the Facebook page “Beach Heroes-OC” for weekly meeting locations. All are welcome.
JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING BRIDGE
DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS BERLIN FARMERS MARKET
Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 7-8 p.m. No dues or fees. 410-459-9100
OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS
Mondays - Worcester County Library -
Tuesdays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 7 p.m. www.jw.org
TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY
Tuesdays - Worcester County Health Department, 9730 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3:30-4:30 p.m. TOPS is a weekly support and education group promoting weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. 410289-4725
ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE
Tuesdays - Lewes Senior Center, 32083 Janice Rd. Lewes, DE, 7-9 p.m. Experienced dancers and others interested in watching or learning more are welcome.
AUGUST 21, 2026
PAGE 55
OC Today-Dispatch
CALENDAR No partner required. Info: TangobytheBeach.com.
ZUMBA TONING TUESDAYS
Tuesdays - Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 5:15 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com
WEIGHT MANAGEMENT AND WELLNESS GROUP
Tuesdays - Holy Trinity Cathedral, 11021 Worcester Highway, 2-2:45 p.m. Use the weight loss program/app/plan of your choice. Free and open to everyone. 410-641-4882, www.htcanglican.org/activities.
Wed., Aug. 26 PUZZLE SWAP
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 1-7 p.m. Bring your gently used puzzles and leave with a new-toyou puzzle. Don’t have a puzzle but still want one? That’s okay, too. All puzzles must be complete and in their original box. All ages welcome. 410-641-0650
GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP
TidalHealth Atlantic, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3-4:30 p.m. Held on the fourth Wednesday of each month. 410-629-6848, lora.pangratz@tidalhealth.org
DOG ADOPTION NIGHT
Ocean Downs Casino, 10218 Racetrack Road, Berlin, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Held trackside during live racing. First post time: 6:40 p.m. Meet the dogs available from local humane societies. https://www.oceandowns.com/promotions/dog-adoption-nights-2/
KIWANIS CLUB MEETING
Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. Last Wednesday of the month meetings are offsite and information can be found on the website and Facebook. www.kiwanisofopoc.org.
CASH BINGO
Wednesdays - Ocean City Elks Lodge 2645, 13708 Sinepuxent Ave. Door open at 5 p.m., bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. Food available before bingo. Open to the public. 443-605-5028
Crossword answers from page 52
ZUMBA PLUS!!
Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 4:30 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com
Thurs., Aug. 27 OCEAN CITY JEEP FEST
Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Featuring Beach Crawls, Sand Course, Show & Shine, Vendor Village, live entertainment and nightly social events. For registration, schedules and event information, visit https://oceancityjeepfest.com. 303-8774352
SUMMER SEND OFF
On the beach from Dorchester St. to Third St., Ocean City, 4-9:30 p.m. Depending on wind conditions, you’ll see
either massive, colorful kites or tethered hot air balloons. Laser show from 8:309:30 p.m. https://www.ococean.com/events/summer-send-off/
SUNSET PARK CONCERTS
Sunset Park, 700 S. Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 7-9 p.m. Featuring “Tranzfusion.” Admission to the park is free. https://www.ococean.com/things-todo/free-family-fun/sunset-park-partynights/
OCEAN PINES CONCERTS IN THE PARK
White Horse Park Pavilion, Ocean Pines, 7-9 p.m. Free community event featuring “Clockwork Band.” Food for sale. BYOB welcome. 410-641-7052.
COFFEE & CRAFTS: SHELL ART
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Join in every month for a
new craft. Materials provided. Limit 30. 410-524-1818, 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. 410-632-5622, worcesterlibrary.org
STORY TIME: I AM WRIGGLY
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Crafts, songs and stories. For ages 2-5 years. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org
DRY PANTRY
Thursdays - St. Paul United Methodist Church, 405 Flower Street, Berlin, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. For those in need of resources such as paper products, laundry products, baby items, and personal care items. Limits apply. 410-641-0270
OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 56
AUGUST 21, 2026
Town of Berlin Board of Zoning Appeals
NOTICE OF APPEALS Wednesday, September 2, 2026 6:30 PM Berlin Police Department, Training Room 129 Decatur Street, Berlin, MD 21811 201 Ann Drive, Tax Map 0300, Parcel 1188: Pursuant to §108246(b)(2) of the Town of Berlin Code, the Berlin Board of Zoning Appeals will hear an appeal submitted by Woody and Colleen Bunting requesting a Variance to install fencing in the rear yard that is 8 feet in height in an R-1 Residential District. Property Owner(s): Layton Elwood Bunting Jr. & Colleen Anne Bunting OCD-8/20/2t _________________________________________________________________
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AUGUST 21, 2026
57
OC Today-Dispatch
Call 410-723-6397 or email classifieds@octodaydispatch.com by Monday, 5 p.m.
Classifieds appear in OC Today-Dispatch & Bayside Gazette each week & online at octodaydispatch.com & baysideoc.com
MARKETPLACE HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
RENTALS
ROOMMATES
COMMERCIAL
HUNTING ACCESS
JOLLY ROGER Small Engine Mechanic & Ride Maintenance. (Must have mechanical knowledge) Technical Support & Installation (Entry level with knowledge of network systems) SEASONAL HELP: Cashiers, Waterpark Attendants, Lifeguards, Ride Operators Wage based on experience. Benefits available. 410-289-4902
EXPERIENCED AUTOMOTIVE PARTS ADVISOR Ocean Pines, MD Busy, established Automotive & Marine Parts Store is looking for an Experienced Parts Advisor to join our team. If you have strong automotive parts knowledge, enjoy helping customers, and are looking for a stable, long-term position, we want to hear from you! Competitive Pay - Benefits Employee - Friends & Family Discounts Established, Busy Location Parts experience required. Call 302-228-2353
Condo For Rent Oct. 2026-May 2027. 2 Bedroom, 2 Baths. Fully furnished, including linens. Midtown location. $1800 mthly. First, last and $1,000 deposit required. 610-405-8942
ROOM FOR RENT Fully furnished, large, clean, private room. Full house privileges. $900 per mo., util’s included. $400 sec. dep. Call 443-880-2317.
2 Office/Retail Spaces available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft. and 1728 sq. ft. Call 443-497-4200
HUNTING ACCESS WANTED Responsible hunter seeking permission to hunt private property during season. Traditional Archery equipment only. Respectful of land and property. Willing to pay for seasonal hunting access. Call 443-614-1020.
NOW HIRING!! Production Crew for our WOC kitchen facility Up to $20/hr. Apply online at: www.delmarvadd.com
AMERICAN LEGION BOOKKEEPER Part-time, familiar with Quickbooks on-line. Apply within. American Legion Post 166, 2308 Philadelphia Avenue, OC, MD 21842 410-289-3166
Seeking Year-Round Rentals! Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555.
Extended Spring & Summer Stays Avail. Utililites Included CONTACT US AT burgundyinn@gmail.com 410-289-8581
Classifieds 410-723-6397 www.baysideoc.com www.octodaydispatch.com
REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE Looking To Buy A Home Or Condo in Ocean City or near Delaware beaches. Please call/text/Email 410-570-9150, arewhyan2@yahoo.com. Thanks Ryan
SERVICES SERVICES LARRY’S HANDYMAN SERVICES No job too small, windows, entrance doors, interior doors, storm doors, shower doors, drywall repairs and paint, laminate floors, interior paint. Over 40 years of carpentry experience. Please call Larry, 410-251-9066 Larryandkim1954@ gmail.com
Industrial Space Yard and Storage Shed. Approx. 10x25+/Route 90/Bishopville. Call 443-497-4200 OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT Looking for space, comfort and great views? Spacious, climatecontrolled office available, with use of conference room and reception area, in a modern, wellmaintained building in prime Ocean City location. Call 410-524-3440 for appointment.
WANT TO BUY WANT TO BUY I BUY ALBUMS! 410-430-5349
Classifieds 410-723-6397 Deadline is Monday @ 5pm
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Maryland, Delaware and D.C.: 106 papers with a circulation of 2.3 million and readership of 4.9 million! Call 410-723-6397 for more information
CUSTODIAL STAFF We are currently looking for Part Time Custodial Employees. Hours are 3:30pm-6:30pm, Monday through Friday. Apply online at www.worcesterprep.org/careers or submit an application via email to employment@worcesterprep.org or mail/drop off an application to Human Resources, 508 S. Main St., Berlin, MD 21811.
Classifieds appear in OC Today-Dispatch & Bayside Gazette each week and online at octodaydispatch.com and baysideoc.com
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OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 58
AUGUST 21, 2026
DIRECTORY AUTOMOTIVE
BLINDS / SHADES
CARPET CLEANING
HANDYMAN SERVICES
HANDYMAN
Mobile Oil Changes & Repairs
443-373-7664 FREED MOTOR COMPANY CLEANING SERVICES
Pure
CLEANING SERVICES
RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • RENTALS • Move In-Out Clean • Standard Clean • Post Construction • Light Yard Clean Clean • Home Organization • Handyman Service • Deep Clean
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PAINTING FLOORING SMALL JOBS & MORE CALL 410-999-4998
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HOME HOME IMPROVEMENT IMPROVEMENT
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FROM FORM TO FINISH, LLC. • Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling • Finish Carpentry • Tile • Painting • Concrete Finishing Ben Armes, Owner/Operator
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OC Today-Dispatch
AUGUST 21, 2026
PAGE 59
DIRECTORY HOME, LAWN & PATIO SERVICES
LANDSCAPING
LANDSCAPING
Atlantic Landscaping and More Property Management • Lawn Care Gutter Cleaning • Shrub Trimming • Power Washing Leaf Removal • Hauling Services • Painting Stone & Gravel • Mulching • Cleaning • Trailer Storage Shed Demolition • Stump Grinding • Dump Trailer Rental House/Shed/Garage Clean-outs • Home Watch Service Pet Sitting/Dog Walking & More Call or Text for Free Estimates & Questions!
LANDSCAPING • IRRIGATION HARDSCAPING • FREE ESTIMATES Full Service/Yearly Maintenance Contracts Available
LOCKSMITH
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Lawncare, Landscaping & Hardscapes S
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CALL FOR ANY OF YOUR PLUMBING OR GAS NEEDS 410-430-3490 • LMSPlumbingandgas.com
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PAGE 60 Aldridge Pite LLP 6001 Executive Blvd., Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20852 301-961-6555
SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE
OF REAL PROPERTY AND ANY IMPROVEMENTS THEREON 13341 PEACHTREE ROAD OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust dated July 7, 2023, recorded in Liber 8607, Folio 36 and re-recorded in Liber 8662, Folio 235 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, with an original principal balance of $600,000.00, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Sub. Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on SEPTEMBER 1, 2026 AT 4:00 PM ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND, together with any buildings or improvements thereon located in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The property, and any improvements thereon, 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 warranty of any kind. Terms of Sale: A deposit of $59,000 in the form of certified check, cashier's check or money order will be required of the purchaser at time and place of sale. Balance of the purchase price, together with interest on the unpaid purchase money at the current rate contained in the Deed of Trust Note, or any modifications thereto, from the date of sale to the date funds are received by the Sub. Trustees, payable in cash within ten days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court. There will be no abatement of interest due to the purchaser in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE FOR THE PURCHASER. Adjustment of all real property taxes, including agricultural taxes, if applicable, and any and all public and/or private charges or assessments, to the extent such amounts survive foreclosure sale, including water/sewer, ground rent and front foot benefit charges, to be adjusted to date of sale and thereafter assumed by purchaser. Purchaser is responsible for any recapture of homestead tax credit. All transfer taxes and recordation taxes shall be paid by Purchaser. The purchaser shall be responsible for the payment of the ground rent escrow, if required. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale. Purchaser is responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property, and assumes risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale.
OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices The sale is subject to post-sale audit of the status of the loan with the loan servicer including, but not limited to, determination of whether the borrower entered into any repayment agreement, reinstated or paid off the loan prior to the sale. In any such event, this sale shall be null and void, and the Purchaser's sole remedy, in law or equity, shall be the return of the deposit without interest. If purchaser fails to settle within ten days of ratification, subject to order of court, purchaser agrees that property will be resold and entire deposit retained by Sub. Trustees as liquidated damages for all losses occasioned by the purchaser's default and purchaser shall have no further liability. 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. Sub. Trustees will convey either marketable or insurable title. If they cannot deliver one or the other, or if ratification of the sale is denied by the Circuit Court for any reason, the Purchaser's sole remedy, at law or equity, is return of the deposit without interest. (Matter No. 381136-1) Andrew J. Brenner, et al, Substitute Trustees
OCD-8/13/3t _________________________________
ment-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their BID’s. The Town is not responsible for the content of any BID Document received through any third-party service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed BID Documents. A Pre-BID Meeting will be held on TUESDAY, AUGUST 11TH, 2026 AT 10:00AM EST, AT THE OCEAN CITY RACQUET CENTER, 104 61ST STREET, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842. The Last Day for Questions will be on TUESDAY, AUGUST 25TH, 2026 AT 4:00PM EST. Addendum will be posted by close of business on WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 26TH, 2026. Sealed BID Documents are due no later than MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 28TH, 2026, BY 10:00AM EST. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION, ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29TH, 2026, AT 1:00PM EST. BID’s are to be submitted to the Mayor and City Council, Attention: City Clerk; Room 230, 301 North Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (Ocean City Racquet Center Renovation) must be noted on the outside of the package. Late BID Documents will not be accepted. Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation. Matt Perry Procurement Manager Town of Ocean City, Maryland OCD-7/30/9t _________________________________ PETER S. BUAS, ESQ. COASTAL LAW OFFICE, LLC 3509 COASTAL HWY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3334
NOTICE
Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland
BID SOLICITATION – B02-27 Ocean City Racquet Center Renovation
The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking BID’s from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Ocean City Racquet Center Renovation and for said work to conform with the BID Documents. BID Documents for the Ocean City Racquet Center Renovation 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/procure-
TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES ESTATE NO. 21202 NOTICE IS GIVEN that the REGISTER OF WILLS court of NEW CASTLE, DELAWARE appointed JANICE A TUBBS whose address is 12752 OLD BRIDGE RD OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-9652 as the PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE of the Estate of WINIFRED TUBBS who died on DECEMBER 28, 2012 domiciled in DELAWARE, USA. The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is N/A. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: WORCESTER COUNTY. All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or de-
AUGUST 21, 2026 livers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred. TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-8/6/3t _________________________________ KATHERINE RUESCH ESQ ALTMAN & ASSOCIATES 11300 ROCKVILLE PIKE, SUITE 708 ROCKVILLE, MD 20852-3093
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21197 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF RONALD M. SINGER AKA: RONALD MICHAEL SINGER Notice is given that Alexandra Lauren Briest, 5921 Yeagertown Rd., New Market, MD 21774-6335, was on July 29, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ronald M. Singer who died on July 07, 2026, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 29th day of January, 2027. All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 29th day of January, 2027. 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. Alexandra Lauren Briest 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
AUGUST 21, 2026 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: August 06, 2026 OCD-8/6/3t _________________________________ GORDON FEINBLATT, LLC BROOKE SHEMER ZWEIG, ESQ. 1001 FLEET ST., STE. 700 BALTIMORE, MD 21202-4825
NOTICE
TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 21205 NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Orphans’ court of Chester County, Pennsylvania appointed John J. Park, 600 5th Ave., Fl. 14, New York, NY 10020-2346 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Carolyn Ann Park who died on November 07, 2025 domiciled in Pennsylvania, America. The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is Brooke Shemer Zweig, Esq., 1001 Fleet St., Ste. 700, Baltimore, MD 21202-4825. 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. John J. Park 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: August 06, 2026 OCD-8/6/3t _________________________________ RACHEL B HARRIS ESQ PO BOX 62 POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851-0062
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of JOAN C YOUNG Estate No. 21208 Notice is given that BENNETT D YOUNG whose address is 3791 FIVE FRIARS RD SALISBURY, MD 21804-2529, GREGORY E YOUNG whose address is 6605 PITCH PINE DR SNOW HILL, MD 21863-3307 were on JULY 31, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOAN C YOUNG
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OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices who died on MAY 24, 2026 without a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 31st day of JANUARY, 2027. All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 31st day of JANUARY, 2027. 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-8/6/3t _________________________________ MARIANA BATIE ESQ. BATIE LAW LLC 9748 STEPHEN DECATUR HWY., STE. 112 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-9358
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21207 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF GLENN KARL ARZADON Notice is given that Danaya Arzadon, 121 Maple Dr., Berlin, MD 21811-1117, was on July 31, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Glenn Karl Arzadon who died on July 10, 2026, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 31st day of January, 2027. All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 31st day of January, 2027. 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. Danaya Arzadon 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: August 06, 2026 OCD-8/6/3t _________________________________ REENA J. PATEL, ESQ. LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNE BATIE 1321 MOUNT HERMON RD., STE. B SALISBURY, MD 21804-5303
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of RUTH K. GUBOSH Estate No. 21146 Notice is given that GWENDOLYN CARLSON whose address is 21902 REDBEAM AVE., TORRANCE, CA 90503-6233 was on JULY 31, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of RUTH K. GUBOSH who died on MAY 08, 2026 with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 31st day of JANUARY, 2027. 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 31st day of JANUARY, 2027. 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-8/6/3t _________________________________ QUINN W. MCGINNES WILLIAMS MOORE, L.L.P. 12800 HOSPITALITY WAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-9394 ROSENBLIT FAMILY LLC Plaintiff v. AMY DORAN & ROSE DORAN Defendants CASE NO. D-024-CV-26-008276 IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF MARYLAND FOR WORCESTER COUNTY
NOTICE
OF PENDING LAWSUIT Rosenblit Family LLC hereby provides notice to Amy Doran and Rose Doran that a complain related to their breach of lease has been filed in the District Court of Maryland for Worcester County in Case No. D024-CV-26-008276, in which the Plaintiff seeks $21,000 in damages, plus interest, attorney's fees, and such other relief as may be available. If you contest all or part of the claim, complete and file a Notice of Intention to Defend in the above captioned case no later than September 13. Failing to file the response within the time allowed or not attend the hearing may result in a judgment by default or the granting of the relief sought. Service via publication has been authorized in accordance with the July 28, 2026 Order of the Court. Quinn W. McGinnes, Esquire AIS #2311290020 Williams, Moore, LLP 12800 Hospitality Way Ocean City, Maryland 21842 (410) 289-3553 qmcginnes@wmoclaw.com Attorney for Plaintiff OCD-8/13/3t _________________________________ QUINN W. MCGINNES WILLIAMS MOORE, L.L.P. 12800 HOSPITALITY WAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-9394 ROSENBLIT FAMILY LLC Plaintiff AMY DORAN, et al. Defendants CASE NO. D-024-CV-26-008276 IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF MARYLAND FOR WORCESTER COUNTY
ORDER
Upon consideration of the Plaintiff's Motion for Alternative Service, it is this 28th of July, 2026, by the District Court of Maryland for
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OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices
Worcester County, hereby, ORDERED that the Plaintiff's Motion for Alternative Service be and hereby is GRANTED, and further ORDERED that Plaintiff be permitted to effect service upon Defendants Amy Doran and Rose Doran by (1) serving the summons and pleadings to the Defendant's known electronic mail addresses, with delivery and read receipt, (2) via certified mail to both, and (3) by publication of notice of the lawsuit in a newspaper of general circulation within Worcester County. Michael Farlow OCD-8/13/3t _________________________________ QUINN W. MCGINNES WILLIAMS MOORE, L.L.P. 12800 HOSPITALITY WAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-9394
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21216 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF SHERRAN G. NAHM Notice is given that Cassandra Nicole Parker, 9 Hyde Park Rd., Pensacola, FL 32503-5830, was on August 06, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Sherran G. Nahm who died on July 11, 2026, without a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 6th day of February, 2027. All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 6th day of February, 2027. 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. Cassandra Nicole 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: August 13, 2026 OCD-8/13/3t _________________________________
Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Phone: (410) 632-1529 Newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Publication Date: August 13, 2026 OCD-8/13/2t _________________________________
McCabe, Weisberg & Conway LLC 312 Marshall Avenue, Suite 800 Laurel, Maryland 20707 301-490-3361 Laura H.G. O'Sullivan, et al., Substitute Trustees Plaintiffs vs. Estate of Helen R. Baldwin and Bruce T. Baldwin, Sr. Defendants IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND Civil No. C-23-CV-25-000183
NOTICE
ORDERED, this 7th day of August, 2026 by the Circuit Court of WORCESTER COUNTY, Maryland, that the sale of the property at 209 Maple Avenue, Berlin, Maryland 21811 mentioned in these proceedings, made and reported by Laura H.G. O'Sullivan, et. al, Substitute Trustees, be ratified and confirmed, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 7th day of September, 2026 next, provided a copy of this notice be inserted in some newspaper published in said County once in each of three successive weeks before the 31st day of August, 2026, next. The report states the amount of sale to be $21,000.00. Susan Braniecki CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-8/13/3t _________________________________ IN THE ORPHANS’ COURT FOR (OR) BEFORE THE REGISTER OF WILLS FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND IN THE ESTATE OF: GEORGE HIRAM EVANS JR. ESTATE NO. 21209
NOTICE
OF JUDICIAL PROBATE To all Persons Interested in the above estate: You are hereby notified that a petition has been filed by Michelle Simon, Esq., 401 North Washington Street, Suite 445, Rockville, MD 20850 for the appointment of a personal representative. A hearing will be held at One W. Market Street, Court Room 4, Court House, Snow Hill, MD 21863 on September 15, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. This hearing may be transferred or postponed to a subsequent time. Further information may be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills. Terri Westcott Register of Wills One W. Market Street
AUGUST 21, 2026 Maureen Howarth, Attorney OCD-8/13/2t _________________________________
TOWN OF BERLIN, MARYLAND
NOTICE
OF A PUBLIC HEARING
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, August 27, 2026 AT 6:00 P.M. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an application related to Section 110-94(2)(b) has been filed to request a special parking exception to waive two (2) out of four (4) required offstreet parking spaces for a proposed reconstruction of an existing dwelling. The Property is described as Tax Map 112, Grid 14, Parcel 4481, and as Lot 55 of the Runaway Bay Plat. It is further described as being on the south side of Penguin Drive and is locally known as 611 Penguin Drive, Unit 55, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. APPLICANT: HUGH CROPPER IV, ESQ. FOR THE LUIS AND STEPHANIE DECELIS REVOCABLE TRUST (BZA 2748, #26-09400012) AT 6:15 PM Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an application related to Section 110-94(3)(a) has been filed to request a special yard exception for a second floor addition to be built to a legally nonconforming 4.7-foot side yard setback rather than 5 feet as required by Code. The Property is described as Tax Map 117, Grid 24, Parcel 6099A, and as Lot 15, Block 5, of the Revised Fenwick, Maryland Plat No. 3 – for the resubdivision of Blocks 3, 5, 7, 12, and 16. The Property is further described as being on the east side of Assawoman Drive and is locally known as 12506 Assawoman Drive, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. APPLICANT: BRADLEY CONSTRUCTION INC. (BZA 2750, #26-09400013) 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
ORDINANCE 2026-06 AN ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF BERLIN, MARYLAND, A MARYLAND MUNICIPAL CORPORATION, AMENDING CHAPTER 16, ENTITLED FIRE PREVENTION AND PROTECTION, ARTICLE II, ENTITLED OUTDOOR BURNING. This ordinance is scheduled for introduction and first reading on Monday, August 10, 2026, at 6:00 PM. A public hearing on the ordinance will be held on Monday, August 24, 2026, at 6:00 PM. Both meetings will take place during the Regular Session of the Mayor and Council at the Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Avenue, Berlin, MD 21811. The hearing is open to the public, and public testimony is encouraged. Persons with questions regarding this hearing may call 410-641-2770 for further information. OCD-8/6/2t _________________________________
INVITATION FOR BIDS Sunset Ave. Relief Sewer Construction Project
Worcester County is seeking Bids from qualified Vendors for the Sunset Ave. Relief Sewer Construction Project in conformity with the requirements contained in the Bid Documents. Bid Documents for the above referenced project may be obtained from the Worcester County Commissioner’s Office by either e-mailing the Procurement Officer at purchasing@worcestermd.gov, or via the Bid Board on the County’s website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their bids. Worcester County is not responsible for the content of any Bid Document received through any third party bid service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Bid Documents. A pre-bid meeting will be held at 10 a.m. on September 16, 2026, at the Mystic Harbour Wastewater Treatment Plant located at 9624 Stephen Decatur Rd, Berlin, MD 21811. Attendance is not mandatory. Each Vendor is responsible for examining both facilities and becoming familiar with access, staging, existing construction, electrical service, operating constraints, and all conditions affecting the Work.
AUGUST 21, 2026 The last date/time to submit questions for clarification will be noon on September 23, 2026. Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than October 1, 2026, at 2 p.m. and will be opened and read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863. Late Bid Documents cannot be accepted. Envelopes shall be marked “Sunset Ave. Relief Sewer Construction Project” in the lower left-hand corner. Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for award of this project. OCD-8/20/1t _________________________________ JAMES W. ALMAND ESQ. AYRES JENKINS GORDY & ALMAND, PA 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21222 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF CHARLES HOLLAND SHORLEY Notice is given that Mary Penelope rose, 10126 Silver Point Ln., Ocean City, MD 21842-9306, was on August 11, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Charles Holland Shorley who died on July 27, 2026, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 11th day of February, 2027. All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 11th day of February, 2027. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. Mary Penelope Rose Personal Representative True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for
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PUBLIC NOTICE The motor vehicles described below have been abandoned. The owners and lien holders are hereby informed of their right to reclaim the vehicles upon payment of all charges and costs resulting from the towing, preservation, and storage of the vehicles. The failure of the owners or lien holders to reclaim the vehicles within three weeks of notification shall be deemed a waiver by the owners or lien holders of all rights, title and interest and thereby consent to the sale of the vehicles at public auction or to have it otherwise disposed of in a manner provided by law. These three weeks of notification begins on DATE: 08/21/2026 Line No 363-26 491-26 502-26 514-26 534-26 565-26 590-26
Year 1998 2007 2000 2007 2008 2007 2013
Make CHEVY DODGE HARLEY HONDA TOYOTA DODGE ACURA
Model BLAZER CARAVAN FXSTS ACCORD SCION RAM P/U TSX
Color TAN BLUE MAROON SILVER BLU BLU BLK
Style VIN Mileage 4D 1GNDT13W4WK222124 2D4GP44L77R159039 1HD1BLY12YY070561 3HGCM56487G704625 JTLKE50E881026911 2D 3D7KS19D87G746027 4D JH4CU2F46DC011949
All vehicles will be sold at auction on-line at www.govdeals.com. For details call 410-723-6643. AUTH: Raymond J Austin Chief of Police OCD-8/20/3t ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 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: August 20, 2026 OCD-8/20/3t _________________________________ PETER S. BUAS, ESQ. COASTAL LAW OFFICE, LLC 3509 COASTAL HWY., OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3334
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21209 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF GEORGE HIRAM EVANS JR. Notice is given that Ryan Evans, 360 McCain Rd., Lake Charles, LA 70607-8708, was on August 17, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of George Hiram Evans who died on December 16, 2025, without a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 17th day of February, 2027. All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 17th day of February, 2027. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned per-
sonal 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. Ryan Evans 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: August 20, 2026 OCD-8/20/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21217 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF DARLENE MARIE BAGDON Notice is given that Justine Rosser, 11 Cannon Dr., Berlin, MD 21811-1730, was on August 11, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Darlene Marie Dag-
don who died on June 23, 2026, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 11th day of February, 2027. All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 11th day of February, 2027. 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. Justine Rosser 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
PAGE 64
OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices
Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: August 20, 2026 OCD-8/20/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21221 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JOSEPH P. MCLAUGHLIN Notice is given that Carol Williams, 10214 Bent Creek Rd., Ocean City, MD 21842-9180, was on August 12, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Joseph P. McLaughlin who died on July 31, 2026, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 12th day of February, 2027. All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 12th day of February, 2027. 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. Carol Williams 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: August 20, 2026 OCD-8/20/3t _________________________________ PETER S. BUAS, ESQ. COASTAL LAW OFFICE, LLC 3509 COASTAL HWY., OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3334
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Estate No. 21227 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JAMES EDMOND WELSCH Notice is given that Anita R. Welsch, 11225 Beverly St., Bishopville, MD 21813-1646, was on August 17, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James Edmond Welsch who died on June 23, 2026, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 17th day of February, 2027. All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 17th day of February, 2027. 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. Anita R. Welsch 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: August 20, 2026 OCD-8/20/3t _________________________________ SMALL ESTATE
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21226 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JAMES H.E. SPRIGGS JR. AKA: JAMES H. SPRIGGS JR., JAMES HARRY SPRIGGS JR. Notice is given that Jami Spriggs, 108 Tenbury Road, Lutherville, MD 21093, was on August 12, 2026 appointed personal representative of the small estate of James H.E. Spriggs Jr. who died on February 08, 2026, with a will. Further information can be ob-
tained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Jami Spriggs 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: August 20, 2026 OCD-8/20/1t _________________________________
Town of Berlin
MAIL-IN VOTING APPLICATION AVAILABILITY
AUGUST 21, 2026 marks not accepted). • In-Person: Applications must be received no later than 4:00 PM on Friday, October 2, 2026, at Berlin Town Hall. NOTE: Application for Mail-In Voting for Town of Berlin Municipal Elections is separate from requests for Permanent Mail-In Ballot for County, State, or National Elections. For an application or further information, please contact Kate Daub at 410-641-4002 or via email at kdaub@berlinmd.gov. TOWN OF BERLIN BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF ELECTIONS OCD-8/20/2t _________________________________
Town of Berlin
CANDIDATE FILING DEADLINES
for 2026 Town of Berlin Elections For the Municipal Election to be held on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, for Council representatives for District 1, District 4, and the At-Large seat. Notice is hereby given for the following Candidate Filing Deadlines: 1. REGULAR Filing Deadline is 4:00 P.M. on Tuesday, September 8, 2026. 2. WRITE-IN Candidate Filing Deadline is 4:00 PM on Tuesday, September 22, 2026. (NOTE: Writein candidates will not appear on the ballot) Candidacy applications and other required forms are available for pickup at the Berlin Visitors Center, 14 South Main St., Berlin, Maryland, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. For additional information, please contact 410-641-4002 or email kdaub@berlinmd.gov. Completed applications must be submitted by the specified deadlines to be considered for candidacy in the Town of Berlin Election scheduled for Tuesday, October 6, 2026. TOWN OF BERLIN BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF ELECTIONS OCD-8/20/2t _________________________________
for 2026 Town of Berlin Elections Please be advised of the following information for the Town of Berlin Municipal Election on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, for Council representatives for District 1, District 4, and the At-Large seat. The Town of Berlin Board of Supervisors of Elections will begin accepting Mail-In Voting applications on Tuesday, September 8, 2026. Applications submitted before this date will NOT be accepted. Applications must be returned and received at the Berlin Visitors Center, located at 14 South Main St., Berlin, by the deadlines specified below to be accepted: • By Mail: Applications must be received no later than 4:00 PM on Tuesday, September 22, 2026 (post-
Town of Berlin
VOTER REGISTRATION DEADLINE AND REGISTRATION INFORMATION
for 2026 Town of Berlin Elections The Town of Berlin Municipal Election will be held on Tuesday, Oc-
AUGUST 21, 2026 tober 6, 2026, for Council representatives for District 1, District 4, and the At-Large seat. VOTER REGISTRATION DEADLINE for the 2026 Town of Berlin Elections is Friday, September 4, 2026. Eligible voters must be registered with the Worcester County Board of Elections to vote in the Town of Berlin Municipal Elections. Voters qualified to register for Worcester County general elections are deemed qualified to vote in the Town of Berlin elections, subject to the additional requirement of living within the Town of Berlin. You may register with the Worcester County Board of Elections at 100 Belt Street in Snow Hill, Maryland, during regular business hours, online at www.elections.state.md.us, or by mail using the proper registration form. Forms can be requested by calling 410-632-1320 or picked up at many public locations, including the Berlin Town Hall. If you are already registered with the Worcester County Board of Elections, you must notify the County Board of Elections Office of any changes to your name or address. Voters not registered with the Worcester County Board of Elections on or before the deadline will NOT be allowed to vote in the Berlin Election on Tuesday, October 6, 2026. TOWN OF BERLIN BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF ELECTIONS OCD-8/20/2t _________________________________
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
Design Build Samuel Bowen Water Main Extension Worcester County is seeking professional design-builder services for the design, permitting, and construction of a 12-inch PVC C900, DR 18 water main in Berlin, Maryland. This main, approximately 2,000 ft in length, will generally run along the north side of Samuel Bowen Boulevard and through a permanent utility easement. Proposal Documents for the above referenced project may be obtained from the Worcester County Commissioner’s Office by either e-mailing the Procurement Officer at purchasing@worcestermd.gov , or via the County’s on-line bid board. Vendors are responsible for checking the County website for addenda prior to submitting their bids. Worcester County is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any thirdparty bid service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents. A non-mandatory pre-proposal meeting will be held on September 17, 2026, at 9 a.m. at the Ocean Pines WWTP - Ops Building at 1000 Shore Lane, Berlin, MD 21811. The last date/time to submit questions for clarification will be noon on September 29, 2026. Sealed Proposal Documents are
OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices
PAGE 65
due no later than October 8, 2026, at 2 p.m. and will be opened and only vendor names will be read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863. Late Proposal Documents cannot be accepted. Envelopes shall be marked “DB Samuel Bowen Water Main Extension” in the lower left-hand corner. Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for award of this solicitation. OCD-8/20/1t _________________________________ SMALL ESTATE
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21224 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ANN MARIE COSSENTINO Notice is given that Lisa Stevens, 305 11th St., Unit 405, Ocean City, MD 21842-5091, was on August 12, 2026 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Ann Marie Cossentino who died on July 03, 2026, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Lisa Stevens 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: August 20, 2026 OCD-8/20/1t _________________________________
COVID-19 Staff Vaxed Virtual Appts. Available
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OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 66
AUGUST 21, 2026
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SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
A rendering shows the path a flying car will take during its demonstration at the Ocean City Convention Center next month.
Flying car demonstration to take place over water in OC By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Aug. 21, 2026) A flying car will take off from the convention center as part of a new E-Volution Expo in September, following the City Council’s Monday night approval brought to
them by local promoter Brad Hoffman. Hoffman asked the council for permission to have a flying car demonstration included in a larger event taking place inside the convention See DEMO Page 68
OC Today-Dispatch
’ s g n Incl i h t ud y r Ev T Th he — e ve — Even
PAGE 67
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AUGUST 21, 2026
BEAC ACH NEW HO HOM MES AT THE E BEACH BEA FROM THE $20 $200S–$800 –$ $800S
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Bridgewater FRANKFORD, DE Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Low $500s
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SOUTH SHORE Plantation n Lakes Golf & Countr ry y Cl lub MILLSBORO, DE es from Now Selling Single Family Home the Low $400s To ownhom mes Now Selling Villas and T from the Upper $200s
the oaks GEORGETOWN, D DE Coming Soon Townhomes
vines creek crossing Pelican Point MILLSBORO, DE
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FRANKFORD, DE Coming Soon Single Family Hom mes, Townhomes, and Villas
forest landing ELLENDALE, DE
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Westwood MILFORD, DE
Now Selling Single Family Homes and Villas from the Upper $300s
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Maryland
LennarAtTheBeach.com | 302.660.1366 Images are solely for illustrative purposes and should never be relied upon. YYoou should never rely on the accuracy of photographs or videos in making any decisions relative to purchasing any property. We reserve the right to makee changes at any time without notice. Please see your New Home Consultant and home purchase agreement for actual features designated as an Everything’s Included feature, additional information, disclosures, and disclaimers relating to your hhome and its relied upon. You should never rely on the accuracy of this map in making any decisions relative to purchasing any property. Visit Lennar.com or see a Lennar New Home Consultant for further details and important legal disclaimers. Void where prohibited by law. Copyright © 2026 Lennar Corporation Lennar, the Lennar logo are U.S. registered service marks or service marks of Lennar Corporation and/or its subsidiaries. U.S. Home Corporation, MHBR #316. Date 008/26
OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 68
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AUGUST 21, 2026
Demo part of E-Volution Expo Continued from Page 66 center Sept. 18-20. He said he was seeking the council’s approval to have the car take off from the convention center and complete a demonstration over the bay before traveling to the Ocean City Airport for landing. “It’s a great opportunity for the town to show how forward-thinking we are with this event and how we’ve embraced the future, which these flying cars would certainly be a part of our future,” he told the council this week. E-Volution Expo bills itself as an event that brings together innovators, industry leaders and organizations, “all working toward a more sustainable future.” The expo, Hoffman said, will feature health and wellness products, sustainability and composting products, home tech products and more. While the event itself will be contained within the convention center, and therefore does not need council approval, City Manager Terry McGean said Hoffman and his team would need the council’s blessing to hold the flying car demonstration, slated to occur Sunday afternoon. “Per the code, to allow a plane to land within town limits, I believe a special event has to be approved by the mayor and council,” he said. McGean added that both the police department and the special events
department had vetted the request and were comfortable with what had been presented. Following the promoter’s presentation, the council voted 6-0, with Councilman Peter Buas recusing himself, to approve the event request as presented. “I think the social media coverage of a flying plane in Ocean City is going to dominate some of the internet around here,” Mayor Rick Meehan said. As part of Monday’s meeting, city leaders also approved a “Bay to Bridge Drive”– a Boardwalk parade to raise money for the Home of the Brave Foundation – and the 29th Annual Endless Summer Cruisin’, to take place Oct. 8-11. Like in years past, officials say the car show will feature automotive vendors, exhibits, Boardwalk parades and more. The producer will not only pay the city $6,250 in private event fees but will give the city 10% of car show gate admissions, 10% of registration fees and 10% of the inlet lot vendor fees in exchange for city assets and support (a value that totaled $25,536 last year). The producer will also be responsible for selling trailer parking permits for the event, at a cost of $50 per permit. Officials say 100% of that revenue will be paid back to the city. In 2025, the producer sold 136 permits, for a total of $6,800.
August 20 - 27 DAY/TIME Fri-Mon 11am-4pm
ADDRESS
BR/BA
STYLE
Heron Harbour, 120th St., Bayside, Ocean City 1BR/2BR/3BR/4BR+ Condos, Towns & SF
PRICE
AGENT/AGENCY
-
Nanette Pavier/Holiday Real Estate
Friday 11am-1pm
6201 Coastal Highway #806, Ocean City
4BR/3BA
Condo
$1,678,000
Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty
Friday 1:30-3pm
9900 Coastal Hwy #1409, Ocean City
2BR/2BA
Condo
$589,900
Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty
Mon-Fri 9am-4pm
12430 Old Bridge Rd., West OC
2BR/2BA
Single Family
from $279,750
Shelly Wilson/Salt Life Community
Saturday 10am-Noon
12418 Coastal Marsh Drive, Berlin
4BR/3.5BA
Single Family
$657,500
Katie Landon/Coldwell Banker Realty
Condo
$499,900
Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty
from $279,750
Shelly Wilson/Salt Life Community
Saturday 10:30am-12:30pm 12301 Jamaica Avenue #351N, Ocean City 2BR/2BA Saturday 11am-3pm
12430 Old Bridge Rd., West OC
2BR/2BA
Single Family
12353 Southhampton Dr, Lighthouse Sound
6BR/7.5BA
Single Family
$3,599,900 Greg Erdie/Beth Evans/BHHS PenFed Realty
Sunday 10:30am-12:30pm 953 Yacht Club Drive, Ocean Pines
3BR/2.5BA
Townhome
$479,900
Katie Landon/Coldwell Banker Realty
Sunday 11:30am-1:30pm
306 14th Street Unit A, Ocean City
3BR/3.5BA
Townhome
$899,900
Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty
Wednesday 1-3pm
75 King Richard Road, Ocean Pines
4BR/3.5BA
Single Family
$829,900
Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty
Saturday 1-4pm
For additional Real Estate Offerings in the area, don’t miss the Labor Day Weekend Coastal Association of Realtors Real Estate Guide, inserted into OC Today-Dispatch’s September 4th Holiday Weekend Issue! Presented free as a courtesy to Licensed REALTORS® who are regular OC Today-Dispatch & Bayside Gazette Advertisers. $10 for listing without advertisement.
AUGUST 21, 2026
PAGE 69
OC Today-Dispatch
Route 589 rezoning ban deferred By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Aug. 21, 2026) A proposed oneyear freeze on rezonings throughout the Route 589 corridor was postponed Tuesday after three Worcester County Commissioners missed the meeting. Commissioner Chip Bertino asked to remove the measure from the agenda “until we have a full contingent of commissioners sitting here,” delaying consideration until at least Sept. 1, the board’s next scheduled meeting. The four commissioners present approved Bertino’s motion unanimously, with Commissioners Caryn Abbott, Ted Elder, and Eric Fiori absent. County spokeswoman Kim Moses said it was the first time since April 4, 2018, that three commissioners missed a meeting. According to county agenda materials, the proposed moratorium would place two pending rezoning applications on hold. Both were submitted in May, and county staff have completed reports on them, but neither has been scheduled for Planning Commission review. County Planning Director Jennifer Keener said the county has paused processing Route 589 rezoning cases based on the commissioners’ direction. The precise scope of the moratorium, including the status of
pending applications, will be formalized Sept. 1, she said. Attorney Hugh Cropper appeared Tuesday on behalf of one applicant, Turville Creek Farms LLC and its coapplicants, to argue that the application should proceed. He said his clients paid a $2,222.35 filing fee and spent tens of thousands of dollars on consultants, engineering work, and a traffic study. County staff have already completed a report on the application, he said. “I urge you to hear that application,” Cropper said. “It’s been applied for. It’s been there three to four months. Nothing’s changed since May. He’s paid his money. If you turn it down, you turn it down, but I urge you to hear it.” Cropper also argued that Maryland’s Land Use Article requires an advertised public hearing before the county changes its zoning regulations, a requirement he said applies to the proposed moratorium. The proposal would stop the county from accepting, processing, or reviewing rezonings within the corridor for 12 months unless rescinded sooner. Development allowed under existing zoning and other county approval processes could continue. The moratorium emerged earlier this month from an unsuccessful ef-
fort to build a higher-density townhouse community on a 14.7-acre property near Ocean Pines. The property owners withdrew their request July 21 after seeking approval to increase the permitted density from 59 homes to 88 townhouses. Area residents had gathered about 900 petition signatures in opposition, and several commissioners indicated they were unlikely to approve it. Two weeks later, at the Aug. 4 meeting, Commissioner Jim Bunting proposed freezing all rezonings along Route 589, saying continued development around Ocean Pines had worsened traffic on the state road. The commissioners directed county staff to prepare the moratorium. Ashley Mostek, who lives behind the townhouse property and organized the petition drive, said residents understand the decision to wait for all seven commissioners but remain hopeful that the moratorium will be approved. “The temporary pause on rezoning applications was an important first step,” Mostek wrote in a statement. “Our community has raised very serious concerns about traffic, safety, infrastructure, and the quality of life of surrounding residents, and we hope those concerns will continue to be taken seriously.”
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This one-of-a-kind home is located on one of the biggest lots in Montego Bay with 6,629 Sq ft. With only 14 lots on this street which backs up to the wildlife sanctuary pond and 5-acre park there will be little traffic on this road. As you enter the home you will see a wide-open floor plan with a beautiful kitchen with stainless steel appliances and a large center island with seating and cabinets for storage. Community offers Pools, tennis courts, Mini Golf, Fishing & Crabbing Pier all for $415/Year. Come Check this one out today. Sold Furnished for $479,900 The Original Montego Bay Specialist Since 1971!
Corner lot in Caine Woods right across the street from Gorman Park with Playgrounds, tennis & pickle ball. 3 Bedrooms, 2 full baths with a wideopen floor plan. Large Kitchen with plenty of cabinets for storage. Nice, enclosed Florida room off the Dining room. Walking distance to the beach and the City Bus. Come check out this property today. Sold Furnished For $509,850
Larry Holdren Real Estate, Inc©
Larry Holdren Real Estate, Inc©
For More Information Call 800-252-2223 • 410-250-2700
For More Information Call 800-252-2223 • 410-250-2700
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ICE ! PR UCED D RE
Serving the Ocean City Community since 1971. 13901 Coastal Hwy., #8, Ocean City, MD
www.larryholdrenrealestate.net • email: ocmdhre@gmail.com
INVITING 3 BR, 2 BA HOME in GREAT COMMUNITY! MOVE-IN READY 2 BR, 1.5 BA HOME Located in highly sought-after Montego Bay, this spacious double-wide manufactured home has 1,440 SF of comfortable living space. Open layout home designed for relaxation, convenience perfect for gatherings or quiet evenings. Ample concrete driveway parking for you & guests. This 0.08-acre lot provides the right amount of outdoor space for gardening or enjoying fresh air. Amenities: 2 inground pools, 1 kiddie pool, 2 tennis courts, pickle ball courts, shuffleboard court, 9-hole mini-golf course, bayfront boardwalk with 3 fishing/crabbing piers, 8-acre wildlife sanctuary with pond, blacktop walking/jogging path...all for a low HOA fee of $415.00/year! Perfect cozy retreat or a place to create lasting memories - this residence is ready to welcome you home! Embrace the lifestyle you've been dreaming of in this delightful home. $379,900
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Located in the highly sought-after Montego Bay community, this 2 BR, 1.5 BA home is being sold fully furnished & ready for you to move right in. Perfect full-time residence, vacation retreat, or investment property. Within walking distance to beach, community amenities, shopping, dining, mini-golf, the bus stop & Ocean City's 58-acre Northside Park...home of the 4th of July Fireworks! Community amenities include 2 inground pools, 1 kiddie pool, 2 tennis courts, pickle ball courts, shuffleboard court, 9-hole mini-golf course, bayfront boardwalk with 3 fishing/crabbing piers & 8-acre wildlife sanctuary with pond & blacktop walking/jogging path...all for a low HOA fee of $415.00 a year!! $319,000
Call Bill Rothstein 800-745-5988 • 443-280-2530 montegobayrealty@aol.com
W NE ING! T S LI
13309 COLONIAL RD MONTEGO BAY OCEAN CITY
12905 Coastal Hwy • Ocean City, MD www.montegobayrealty.com
PAGE 70
OC Today-Dispatch
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AUGUST 21, 2026
By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Aug. 21, 2026) The problem isn’t that Ocean City lacks firefighters qualified to teach high school Fire/EMS classes – it’s that those firefighters already have full-time jobs to do. That’s why Worcester County officials voted Tuesday to authorize up to $50,000 to pay resort firefighters and paramedics to teach at Worcester Technical High School on their offhours, rather than pull them away from regular emergency-response shifts. “We don’t have anybody, at least currently in mind, that is capable of doing this as a full-time job,” Ocean City Fire Chief Josh Bunting said. “So, it’s really cobbling together instructors that are working.” Worcester Tech has had difficulty staffing the program because instructors need fire and emergency medical expertise, as well as the certifications required to teach those skills, according to Worcester County Fire Marshal Matt Owens. The Maryland Fire and Rescue In-
stitute traditionally provides instructors for the program, but fire officials said the organization can’t always support a class when enrollment falls below its required threshold. When that happens, the county has turned to Ocean City, which has its own training academy and a pool of certified instructors. That $50,000 amount isn’t a fixed teacher salary – it’s a pool of money to pay several instructors, and the actual cost varies depending on the course. A classroom lesson might require one instructor, Bunting said, while hands-on exercises inside a firetraining building require several instructors to safely supervise students. The commissioners' $50,000 appropriation is expected to shore up staffing for the 2026–27 school year. Looking ahead, though, officials will need to lock down a more consistent staffing regimen. Bunting said that could be coordinated through a dedicated group of instructors or with the help of the school system itself. “As a parent,” he said, “it’s hard to have your kid look at an opportunity at the tech center that may or may not be there next year depending on
AUGUST 21, 2026
PAGE 71
OC Today-Dispatch
Fire industry needs young staff funding and available instructors.” Still, career and volunteer fire deThe Fire/EMS program has been partments across Worcester County offered at Worcester Tech since the need young recruits. 2009-10 school year, giving students “There is not enough help coming from the county’s three high schools into our industry, whether volunteer a head start on the training required or career,” Bunting said. to become firefighters, paramedics, In the meantime, firefighting stuand emergency medical technicians. dents will soon have a new place to The program is a two-year commit- put that training to work: a new trainment. Students spend one school year ing tower across from Worcester on emergency medical training and an- Tech in Newark recently received its other on firefighting. certificate of occuThey’ll leave with pancy. It replaces a ‘There is not enough help basic certifications facility that officials coming into our industry, they can put to use said lasted nearly with a career or volwhether volunteer or career.’ four decades. unteer fire company. Owens winced a Ocean City Fire Chief More than a little when he reJosh Bunting dozen students called taking threehave expressed inhour nighttime terest in taking the EMT coursework firefighting classes when he first this school year, according to started with the volunteer fire service. Bunting. Numerous graduates have Today, he noted, Worcester Tech gone on to work in fire, EMS and students can complete that training other public-safety roles locally. during the school day and graduate “We always want to have new with the basic certifications needed to blood – I mean, that’s the lifeline,” enter a career or volunteer department. Owens said. “The life of the fire serv“It’s a tremendous opportunity,” ice is getting the young blood in.” Owens said.
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OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 72
AUGUST 21, 2026
Hotel site plan changes as owner eyes redevelopment
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
A rendering submitted with the current site plan shows the Majestic Hotel’s redevelopment. A new plan is currently under review.
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By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Aug. 21, 2026) Representatives for the Majestic Hotel say plans for the property’s redevelopment are changing. Last week, the hotel owner’s attorney, Joe Moore, came before the Ocean City Board of Zoning Appeals to request the extension of an approval his client received last year in connection to the hotel’s eventual redevelopment. As part of the presentation, city staff and hotel representatives announced that a new site plan is forthcoming. “We are neck-deep in design,” architect Keith Iott told board members last Thursday. “We’ve submitted a site plan approval package, and we’re going to be submitting some amended drawings next week.” In July 2025, the appeals board approved a special exception, allowing the owner of the Majestic Hotel a legally nonconforming 22-foot setback from the Boardwalk. At the time, Moore said his client was seeking the exception after a prior approval had expired. The request was tied to the site’s redevelopment, with plans calling for a new five-story building with 100
hotel rooms, nine employee housing units and more than 8,000 square feet of commercial space along the boards. The special exception allowed the owner to keep an existing 22-foot setback in an area that requires 32 feet of separation. “It granted a special yard exception for the proposed hotel to have a distance setback of 22 feet from Atlantic Avenue,” Zoning Analyst Chase Phillips told the board last week. “And the approval that’s before the board tonight is for another year.” While the appeals board ultimately granted the applicant a one-year extension, planning staff last week noted that a new site plan for the Majestic Hotel had been submitted and would be going to the city’s technical review committee. “We are actively working with the applicant now to get these plans through approvals,” Ocean City Planning and Community Development Director George Bendler said. Iott added that the goal was to go before the Ocean City Planning Commission for approval in early September. “The developer has reopened the hotel this summer for some revenue, and have spruced up the hotel a little bit,” he said, “but in anticipation of the site redevelopment.”
AUGUST 21, 2026
PAGE 73
OC Today-Dispatch
Despite council opposition, sidewalk closures proceed “We are here, the State Highway is here, to protect the public, and dare I say to protect the public from themselves, from walking into what would be a dangerous situation,” Adkins told the Ocean City Council on Monday. Earlier this summer, the construction company proposed closing both the 14-foot sidewalk and street parking located in front of the developer’s property. Officials reported the State Highway Administration – which gave its own approval – would provide concrete jersey barriers to separate the parking lane from the slow lane of travel, and that both bike and pedestrian traffic would be redirected to Baltimore Avenue to access the fishing pier. Under the city’s construction staging policy, sidewalks closures are prohibited during the summer, unless the construction company can get approval from both the Ocean City Police Commission and the Ocean City Council. To that end, the request was brought to commission members, who voted in June to approve the plan and advance it to the mayor and City Council for consideration. However, when the request was brought before city leaders days later, they rejected the developers plans, See HOTEL Page 75
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By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Aug. 21, 2026) Plans to close pedestrian access and street parking near the site of the Kyma hotel development downtown will move forward, despite concerns from council members and neighboring property owners. In June, the Ocean City Council directed the hotel’s builder, GGA Construction, to find an alternative plan after representatives came forward with a request to close a portion of sidewalk at 700 S. Philadelphia Avenue and reroute pedestrian traffic around the block as construction moves forward on the 83-unit bayside project. While the construction company and staff noted the closure was needed to accommodate trucks entering and exiting the site on a daily basis, the council had concerns about the impacts it could have on pedestrian movement downtown. But the final decision, Public Works Director Hal Adkins told city officials this week, is left to the Maryland State Highway Administration, which owns the roadway in front of the hotel development. This month, the city was notified that the agency denied the alternatives proposed by the City Council.
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OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 74
vanishing
OCEAN CITY
With Bunk Mann
AUGUST 21, 2026
Things I Like... By Steve Green The morning after college drop off Holding the door for a stranger The first cuts with a new knife Anything cooked on the grill Nice handwriting
A permanent Boardwalk was constructed in 1892 and extended for eight blocks along the oceanfront. Styles were more formal in the 1890s and 1900s — men in suits and ties and ladies in long dresses and big hats were normal attire for strolling the early Boardwalk in Ocean City. Both the Boardwalk and beach were narrow in this circa 1904 view of S. Division Street. On high tide, waves would come up close to the Boardwalk and the streets — all of which were unpaved in that era. Ocean City’s first restaurant can be seen in the background on the left of the photo. Opened by George Conner in 1892 and known as “Conners,” it provided food and drinks to the excursionists who took the railroad to spend an afternoon at the beach. It is likely the people pictured above were part of one of these popular railroad excursions. The descendants of George Conner are still in Ocean City’s hospitality industry today. To purchase one of Bunk Mann's books, click over to www.vanishPhoto courtesy Clifford Dypsky ingoc.com.
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AUGUST 21, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 75
Hotel project prompts closures Continued from Page 73 questioning the necessity of a 24/7 sidewalk closure and a lengthy detour that made people go around the block rather than across the street. The meeting ended with the City Council directing GGA Construction and staff to work with the State Highway Administration on another plan. “People are not going to walk a third of a mile to go 50 yards,” Councilman John Gehrig said at the time. “They’re just going to walk down the street. So, we have to mitigate that somehow.” Back on the agenda this week, Adkins said he had reached out to the construction company, its traffic control partner, and the State Highway Administration. In his conversations with the state agency, he said he had presented the council’s request for a temporary crosswalk, directing pedestrians to the east side of Philadelphia Avenue as sidewalk closures continued in front of the site. “There was an adamant ‘no’ relative to installing an interim crosswalk,” he said. “They did not want the liability that would become associated with it.” Adkins added that it also went against the agency’s policy. As a result, the State Highway Administration has established a detour that takes pedestrians around the block,
rather than across the street. “Their policy states that they have to set up the detour,” he said. “It takes you to the opposite side of a given construction project via the most safe route with currently marked crosswalk.” Adkins said he also presented State Highway with the council’s request to reopen the sidewalk during the evening hours, once site work had concluded for the day. That request, he said, was also denied. “Their concern was if they acknowledged that in a permit, and someone was to injure themselves – because the contractor left a tool out there, a scrap piece of rebar or anything else that could possibly be there – they do not want to get pulled into a lawsuit,” he said. Ultimately, Adkins said he and council members had heard the public’s concerns, but could not do anything. “The end result is the State Highway Administration has issued a permit in which there will be no crosswalk, the parking lane on the west side will be removed, jersey barriers will be installed, the sidewalk will be closed 24/7, and detour signs will be put up by the contractor directing them across Philly at a designated crosswalk.” “So, in summary, we don’t have jurisdiction and we don’t have a say in it,” Councilman Will Savage replied. Adkins told council members the
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State Highway Administration denies council’s crosswalk alternative, instead establishes pedestrian detour around the block as Kyma hotel construction plans move forward.
only avenue they had was “political pressure.” However, given the scale of the project, its proximity to the neighboring sidewalk, and the limited access to the site, he said he didn’t recommend any changes to
what had already been permitted. “I don’t have a problem with what State Highway’s permitted,” he said. “I prefer to see it closed for the time being and allow that contractor, as efficiently as possible, to top out that building …”
OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 76
AUGUST 21, 2026
SURF REPORT
The Adventures
I
by Steve Green
of Fatherhood
t’s exactly how it should be. Knowing that did not make the significance of last weekend’s college drop-off at High Point University any less emotional or meaningful. The reality is our world has to become a little smaller for our 18year-old son Beckett’s world to become bigger. And his world needs to become bigger. This is a wonderful community to grow up in. It’s comfortable, familiar and filled with people who have known Beckett for most of his life. But it’s also tiny. At some point, a young person needs more. I have joked before I am glad there is no 13th grade because he needs to go and grow. We need it, too. We saw it this summer. There was boredom at times and an obvious itch for something more. He was ready for what was next. That’s natural. I can remember having that same longing at 18 years old — wanting to know what was beyond the people and places I knew so well. Knowing all this intellectually is one thing. Feeling it as a parent is entirely different. At High Point, there is a welcome weekend for freshmen and their parents. There are activities, meetings, speeches and plenty of opportunities to help families with the transition. On Sunday morning, a convocation was held. Soon after a bald eagle flew through the auditorium — yes, an actual bald eagle — the message became clear. It was time for the parents to get on the road. It was time to let go. It was time for Beckett and his Class of 2030 classmates to fly. Two things can be true at the same time. I knew it was time for us to go, and I was also sad to leave. My emotions were raw. There was excitement for him, pride in him and sadness for us. There was also a realization this was one of those major parenting milestones we had talked about for years but never really understood until we were living it. How fortunate we are to love someone so much that leaving him behind to
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start his new life can be both painful and joyous. High Point University President Nido Qubein summed it up well when he told parents, “You spend your whole life preparing those you can’t live without, to live without you.” That one landed. There were several other messages from Qubein that resonated with me, both as a parent and as someone who appreciates a good life lesson. • “There are no impossible dreams, just impossible timelines.” • “Success does not come to you. Nobody owes it to you. You must go to it and commit yourself.” • “It’s perfectly okay to be disappointed but never discouraged.” • “If you get down, get up. Every problem has a solution.” He also spoke about dividing life into thirds — learning, earning and serving. His message was not simply to “live and let live,” but instead to “live and serve.” That struck me as an especially important message for a group of 18-year-olds beginning this next chapter. College is obviously about academics and preparing for a career, but these four years will be about much more than that. It’s about figuring out who you are, what matters to you and ultimately what kind of person you want to become. His most meaningful comments that morning, at least to me, were directed toward the parents. “Have faith. Let go. You gave them their roots. Our job here is to give them wings to fly, soar and excel.” And then came another reminder: We were not leaving our children behind. We were propelling them forward and lifting them up. “This is the moment you have been waiting for,” Qubein told the parents. “The moment you have worked your hearts off for.” There was comfort in those words. As I looked around the venue during the remarks, there were some interesting bonding moments with complete strangers. The students came from 48 different states and multiple countries. The parents came from different backgrounds, different communities and different life experiences.
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Yet, in that moment, there was a common thread. We were all doing the same thing. We were letting go. There were moms wiping away tears. There were dads staring straight ahead, trying not to do the same with variable success. There were knowing smiles exchanged between strangers that seemed to say, “Yep, this is hard.” For 18 years, parenting is largely about being there. We drive them places. We sit in the stands. We help with homework. We worry when they are sick. We celebrate their successes and try to help them through their disappointments. We remind them about things they already know. We ask too many questions. We offer advice they didn’t request. Then suddenly we are being told one of the best things we can do for them is leave. That’s a strange transition. Change is hard, but it’s the magnitude of change when your heart is involved that makes it so challenging. There’s also something beautiful about it. We want our children to become independent. We want them to meet new people, experience new things, make mistakes, solve problems and discover interests they didn’t know they had. We want them to build lives that are their own. That’s the goal. It just turns out achieving the goal can hurt a little. From here, we move forward. Beckett is doing well. He’s going to classes. He seems happy. He’s meeting people and settling into a new routine. Those simple updates mean more to us these days than he probably realizes. There will inevitably be moments when we are needed. There will be tough days, questions, disappointments and maybe even a few calls home after a stumble. We will be here. But our role is changing. For 18 years, we worked on the roots. Now it’s time to trust the wings. (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.)
It’s not the heat, it’s the humidity – and the dew point By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer (Aug. 21, 2026) As the saying goes “it’s not the heat, it’s the humidity.” Yes, the humidity has everything to do with how we feel when the temperature rises to the upper 70s and beyond, when it’s hot as it has been for most of the summer. But there’s another weather factor that has recently come to light for me that doesn’t seem to be mentioned or thought of too often. That factor is the dew point. Simply put, humidity is the amount of invisible water vapor in the air. It’s referred to as relative humidity and is described as a percentage of what the air can hold. High relative humidity makes it difficult for sweat on one’s body to evaporate. Dew point is described as an absolute temperature number and shows how much water vapor is present in the air. Dew point appears to be a more accurate gauge as to how the high temperature feels. The bottom line regarding dew point can be shown on a scale. Less than 60 degrees is comfortable. A 61-65 degree dew point will make the air feel noticeable. Uncomfortable sets in at 6670 degrees. It’s considered miserable at 71-76 degrees and extreme un-comfort would occur when the dew point is 77 degrees or above. I’m reasonably sure any of the above information would depend on the individual, their occupation, age, activity level, location, and if they spend most of their time indoors or out. So there you have it. A few notes on why the heat can feel even hotter and not so comfortable. Try to slow down outside, dress accordingly, seek shade, and hydrate. It can make quite a difference. Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City
50
Years On!
AUGUST 21, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
Pedicab company REAL ESTATE REPORT to operate during fall special events Association provides guide
PAGE 77
Lessons on rates, down payments
Operator to run shuttles for OC music festivals, Sunfest
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Aug. 21, 2026) With the support of the Ocean City Council, a Boardwalk pedicab company will be allowed to operate during three special events this fall. On Monday, council members agreed to pass a resolution, allowing Atlantic Pedicabs to operate outside of its previously established dates and times. The 6-0 vote will give the company permission to provide services during Oceans Calling, Country Calling and Sunfest. In April, the Ocean City Council selected Atlantic Pedicabs to operate a new pedicab franchise on the Boardwalk. The service replaces the Boardwalk trams, which were pulled from operation in 2024 after a police investigation into a tram fatality revealed a series of motor vehicle violations. By the following month, the City Council approved the terms of the franchise, including the operational requirements, dates and times. Per the agreement, Atlantic Pedicabs is expected to begin around Memorial Day and end on or about Labor Day of each year, although the city reserves the right to allow operations for special events outside of that timeframe. It was that exception that was the subject of the resolution passed this week. With the council’s approval, the company will be allowed to operate during Oceans Calling (Sept. 2527), Country Calling (Oct. 2-3) and Sunfest (Oct. 22-25). For both music festivals, the pedicabs can operate southbound along the Boardwalk from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., in both directions from 2-9 p.m., and northbound from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. For Sunfest, the pedicabs can operate shuttles in both directions from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. With no discussion this week, the City Council voted 6-0, with Councilman John Gehrig absent at the time of the vote, to approve the company’s request.
on mortgage interest rates, how they impact payments By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer (Aug. 21, 2026) In one of the National Association of REALTORS® most recent “Consumer Guide” series, the topic of navigating mortgage interest rate shifts was covered. The interest rate on your mortgage affects the price range you can comfortably afford. Approaching the issue with knowledge—including an understanding of how rate changes impact your monthly payment—can help keep your home purchase on track. Individual lenders set interest rates based on economic conditions, their
risk tolerance and other factors, including the yield on 10-year Treasury bonds and the price of mortgage-backed securities. Your credit score, debt-to-income ratio and down payment amount also impact your rate. Fixed-rate mortgages keep the same rate during the life of the loan. Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) may offer lower initial payments (usually for five or seven years), but your rate could rise later based on market conditions. With an ARM you get early money savings for a share of the interest-rate risk down the road. Typically, your monthly payment includes a portion of the principal loan amount, interest, property taxes and homeowners insurance. If your down payment is less than 20% of the purchase price, it can also include private mortgage insurance. Most experts say your monthly housing costs should be about 25% of your net monthly income, but lenders may approve a higher per-
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centage if you have good credit, a large down payment or high cash reserves. Higher interest rates affect your monthly mortgage payment, so it in turn affects your purchasing power. With a 20% down payment on a $400,000 home, the monthly payment for a 6% interest rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage would be $1,919. The payment would be $2,023 at 6.5% interest and $2,129 at 7% interest. So, a 1% increase in the mortgage interest rate would raise the monthly payment by $210. Use an online mortgage calculator to see how changes in rates and down payments impact your monthly payment Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record for Keller Williams Realty Delmarva in Ocean City, MD.
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Opinions
August 21, 2026
Page 78
Sports complex needs campaign For the second time now, Ocean City government’s proposed sports complex has taken a beating. Almost three years ago, county voters delivered the first knockdown in a referendum that blocked Worcester County government’s plan to be Ocean City’s financial partner in the purchase of a site for a major recreational facility. This week, opponents of the travel sports destination concept, objected so strenuously to the purchase of a different tract west of Berlin that the council decided to look elsewhere for a site. These failures, however, have less to do with the potential location of a sports complex than it appears. The public’s negative reaction to this long-dreamed-of plan is because it has never been included in the conversation. Instead, the Ocean City mayor and council and sports complex advocates have wasted time selling the idea to themselves. Outside of appointing a task force to look at various aspects of such a facility, city officials have managed much of the project’s activity quietly in-house, with even members of the task force out of the loop. In the meantime, members of the public have questions beyond where a complex might go. If the idea is to build up the resort’s off-season economy, where will local businesses find the workers they need to operate? Will city government have to add to its payroll? How will Ocean City residents’ benefit? If City Hall can’t tell the resort voting public what they will get out of this, securing approval of the complex is going to be a long slog. To be clear, businesses like this one, which relies on advertising for its income, would benefit if this area had a robust year-round economy. However, city government needs to prove its case. It needs town meetings, periodic updates and honest answers to tough questions. Otherwise, the public is not going to respond favorably to “trust us, we’re doing what’s best.”
OC Today-Dispatch Stubbornly local, equally independent NEWS EDITOR STEWART DOBSON; EXECUTIVE EDITOR STEVE GREEN ASSOCIATE EDITOR BETHANY HOOPER STAFF WRITERS TARA FISCHER, BRIAN SHANE Contact News Room: editor@octodaydispatch.com SALES ACCOUNT MANAGERS MARY COOPER, TERRI FRENCH, RENEE KELLY CLASSIFIEDS/LEGALS PAMELA GREEN Contact Sales: sales@octodaydispatch.com PRODUCTION ART DIRECTOR COLE GIBSON; SENIOR PAGE DESIGNER SUSAN PARKS SENIOR AD DESIGNER KELLY BROWN ADMINISTRATION PUBLISHER/CONTROLLER CHRISTINE BROWN ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT GINI TUFTS Web: octodaydispatch.com ~ Facebook: www.facebook.com/octodaydispatch OC Today-Dispatch is published Fridays by FLAG Publications, Inc. 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 410-723-6397 All content copyright 2026
PUBLIC EYE
Fasten your seatbelt
If you’re looking for a reason not to fly commercial airlines these days and you haven’t been dissuaded by high ticket prices, interminably long waits before boarding, or the increasing number of cancellations because of bad weather, I have a new one for you. First, it is true that the cost of tickets has been coming down and that companies are no longer accepting first-born children as payment (I think it’s mostly a storage problem, By though). It’s also been reported that Stewart airlines are only filing for a lien Dobson against passengers’ arms and legs instead of demanding the arms and legs up front. Meanwhile, those long waits have been reduced by the TSA’s “Touchless ID Program,” although some people do miss the personal contact. “Oh officer, did you forget to check here? And there? Oh, and here? Tee-hee.” As for those cancellations, they are a product of an increasing number of storms resulting in part from climate change (or not, depending on various elections), and there’s nothing to be done about it. So, what could be as bad as high prices, wasted time and lousy weather? This actual notice: “The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)’s Office of Aerospace Medicine is holding a series of meetings to study cannabis use among pilots and air traffic controllers. “The FAA is focused on determining how long after consumption a pilot or air traffic
controller must wait before it is safe for them to do their job. The four meetings, scheduled for this year and next year, will focus on ways to determine whether someone is fit for duty. The move comes in response to the Trump administration’s plan to reclassify marijuana from Schedule I, meaning completely illegal, to Schedule III, meaning legal but regulated.” What? Here’s the thing: drug use by commercial airline pilots is forbidden, or so they say, and yet here we are about to assess how long pilots must wait after they get high before they can climb into the cockpit and holler “Thunderbirds are go! Giddyup!” I don’t think so. If the airlines have a zerotolerance drug use policy, but the FAA says there’s a need to see how long it takes a pilot to come down before he or she can go back up, someone might want to check their notes to see what’s what. Further, if we don’t know now how long a pilot needs to wait after catching a buzz to take his 737 and 200 passengers up into the wild blue yonder, we’re already in very big trouble. Because that means we’re taking the pilot’s word for it when he says he’s feeling just dandy when the truth is he spent the night watching Law & Order Special Victims through little Tommy’s kaleidoscope because it was reaaalllly coooooooooool. “This is your pilot speaking. Prepare for takeoff, folks. Here we go, oh yeah. Hahahahahahahahahaha. Wheeeeeeeeee! Going veerrrrrrrry faaaastt. Speeeeeding. Yeah, verrrrrrry faaaast...” “Folks, this is your co-pilot: Just ignore him. We’ll be taking off momentarily.”
AUGUST 21, 2026
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OC Today-Dispatch
Between the Lines By Steve Green
Why is the sports complex so important to Ocean City? It’s a question that needs a clear answer with an explanation that connects with everyone in Worcester County. The reality is the sports complex has been pushed for more than a decade because there are concerning trends being seen in tourism, and something big needs to be done to keep Ocean City moving forward in a competitive marketplace. Sports tourism is viewed as a meaningful opportunity to bring new business to the area not only during the shoulder months but also in the summer season. What I have heard all summer is the peak season is continuing to shrink, and the weekdays are too quiet even in July and early August to meet goals. The need for a new tourism engine was what Ocean City Councilman John Gehrig was getting at in his long speech when it became clear the proposed site in Saint Martins off Ocean City Road was going to be killed on Monday night. Before another site is selected or examined, Ocean City needs to be honest with itself as well as those outside the area. When people ask why a sports complex needs to be built, it needs to be explained in a way that does not come across as bullying or condescending. It’s not just about Ocean City hotels, retail and restaurants. It should be about the whole county. The conversation needs to start with acknowledging Ocean City’s importance to our local economy from an employment and tax revenue perspective. We need to all agree tourism is the No. 1 industry in this county followed by agriculture. The benefits of strong tourism need to be explained to all Worcester countians. Ocean City is the tax revenue king for Worcester County, thanks largely to the second homeowners, and we should all care subsequently about its health. Tourism, out-of-the-area property owners and commercial properties contribute tremendously to Worcester County's finances. Those revenues help support county services, including our public school system, without many of those property owners requiring the same level of year-round county services. I want to see a sports complex succeed in Worcester County. I believe Ocean City's tourism industry needs additional opportunities to attract visitors, now even in the summer months, and our entire county benefits when Ocean City's tourism economy is strong. We are seeing concerning signs with tourism, and all of us in Worcester should be worried when business is soft in Ocean City. Wanting the project does not mean we should accept the wrong location just to get it built. The site must make sense and not ruin local ways of life. The surrounding community of any site must be heard early in the process to see if the concerns can be assuaged. When the next potential location is identified – and the search should continue in my mind - communication with nearby residents needs to begin early. That's the only way this process will be fair, transparent and ultimately successful. *** Ocean City’s beaches will get a new round of replenishment this fall, but the cost has increased by 31% from five years ago when the last pumping was done. During this week’s Mayor and Council meeting in Ocean City, the $28 million cost of the project – compared to $16 million in 2021 – was discussed. The higher price tag required Ocean City to pull $1,25 million from its fund balance to the state’s DNR, which manages the account that funds the project. The council approved the transfer this week unanimously. Beach replenishment’s cost is shared four ways – the federal Army Corps pays 53%, the states pays 24% and Worcester County and Ocean City each fund 12% of the work. Worcester County will also need to agree to an additional allocation. While the dramatic increase in project funding is not welcomed, support remains solid, thanks in large part to the 50-year partnership between the feds, state, county and resort. Both Mayor Rick Meehan and City Manager Terry McGean called beach replenishment the city’s “most important project” this week. *** I spent last week in Ocean City for a “staycation,” and I saw first-hand how creative people are getting with skirting the city’s new beach regulations. Around 7 in the morning, I watched as a man brought out about a half dozen beach chairs and spread them out in prime location. He was clearly reserving his space for his family and leaving “unattended property” for hours. A couple hours later, he brought out a canopy in the footprint. It sounds like the city may shift some gears with Emergency Services Director Joe Theobald saying last week, “unattended property is unattended property and at the end of the season I will come back with some recommendations.”
Letters to the editor Traffic light will improve safety at intersection Editor, If you've driven through it, you know. If you live here, you're aware. Yet another serious accident at this chaotic intersection yesterday [Sunday] afternoon. This time four cars were involved. It is an injustice to those that live and pay taxes in this county to not have a light, finally, implemented at this intersection. Insanely dangerous; 50 mph speed limit. Tourists trying to make a left turn with a half mile long back-up of cars blaring horns because nobody can move with a steady stream of traffic north and southbound on 611. And vehicles trying to merge from the right hand turn lane in front of Bucks from Assateague Road onto 611 southbound with additional traffic pulling out from Bucks and Assateague Surf Shop. Sysco trucks parked in the turn lane in front of Assateague Surf Shop block any potential view from unaware tourists pulling out of the parking lot into oncoming traffic. Are we waiting for somebody important to be involved in another serious collision? W. R. Weiland Berlin
Donations make Surfers Healing event possible
Editor, Every Child Deserves Their Moment in the Sun -- that is the inspiration behind ‘Surfers Healing,” a one day surfing camp for children with Autism. The
camp was held for the 16th year on the beach at the Castle in the Sand Hotel in Ocean City on Wednesday Aug. 12. It is an opportunity for children (120 this year) to experience therapeutic benefits of surfing with 26 professional surfers from Hawaii and California. Founded in 1996 by Izzy Paskowitz who witnessed the calming effect the surf had on his son Isiah with autism, the camp is now nationwide. The event also features activities for the entire family, arts and crafts, games, volleyball and music. In order to make the camp affordable for families ( the camp itself is free) we seek donations to provide meals throughout the day. Restaurants large and small in Ocean City have supported us each year very generously. Our sincere thanks to Bull on the Beach, Bourbon St. on the Beach, Pickles Pub, H.M.R.A., Church of the Holy Spirit, OC Surf Club and the Hartnett Family. And many thanks to our volunteers Devon, Mary, Pam, Tami, Ed and Janice, Michael and a special thanks to OCVFR member Paul. The Showell family and the staff here at the Castle love hosting Surfers Healing each year. It’s a transformative day for the kids and turns our beach into a place of joy, courage and incredible community spirit. Another perfect day and Mahala, Tommy Vach! Patricia Smith Ocean City (The writer is the director of sales and events at the Castle in the Sand Hotel and Resort.)
Mail your letter to editor@octodaydispatch.com All letters are subject to editing for clarity and potentially libelous material
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AUGUST 21, 2026
School system approves social media policy New framework a working document, to be revised when deemed necessary By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Aug. 21, 2026) After months of deliberation, the Worcester County Board of Education on Tuesday approved a revised social media policy to guide employee professionalism in online networking spaces. At the board of education’s meeting, members passed amended social media regulations for teachers and staff of Worcester County Public Schools. System officials believe the new rules will clarify the board’s stance on inflammatory messaging and other inappropriate online conduct. A committee charged with over-
hauling obsolete WCPS social networking rules created the reshaped policy. The team included board attorney Heather Stansbury, board members Jackie Cutlip, Elena McComas, and Jon Andes, and executive team members. These guidelines have been repeatedly revised and edited over the past few months as board members worked to ensure the policy was as clear and objective as possible. The framework has now been pushed through, right in time for the start of the new school year. The changes establish new standards for how school system employees use both professional and personal social media accounts. The policy states that employees may not author social media content that would impair their effectiveness
as an educator or role model or under- not prevent content from becoming mine the educational environment. publicly accessible. Board members agreed to remove the Another provision requires the suword “likely” from portions of the pol- perintendent or the superintendent’s icy to reduce subjectivity in determin- designee to evaluate alleged violations ing whether an employee’s online based on the circumstances and exeractivity violates the rules. cise “consistent, objective professional The policy also removes language judgment” when determining disciprohibiting content that could “likely pline. Board members said the emphadamage the public confidence” in the sis on objectivity is intended to ensure school board or Worcester County the policy is applied consistently rather Public Schools. than based on individual interpretaThe policy also tions or biases. sets standards for The revised pol‘There has to be common sense, icy also clarifies that profanity and vulgar context, and legitimate language, prohibitWCPS owns all prosocial ing employees from connections to our schools. fessional using social media to Our goal should be to protect media accounts operated on the school write this kind of our school system.’ system’s behalf. speech when it is obTodd Ferrante, Board President jectively determined Board President Todd Ferrante said to have been said the policy is inwith the intention of tended to protect offending or degrading others. The addition distinguishes students, employees, schools, and conbetween inappropriate language and fidential information without regulatsituations in which profanity may be ing employees’ private lives or political used without intent to offend or de- beliefs. “Political beliefs are personal opingrade. The policy also reminds employees ions,” Ferrante said. “Freedom of that posts made on personal social speech is a foundational principle of media accounts can become public, our country, and simply because even when privacy settings are en- someone doesn’t want to be offended abled. Staff members are responsible by something on an employee’s post for securing their accounts but are cau- shouldn’t automatically be a policy viSee SOCIAL Page 81 tioned that privacy settings alone may
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Social networking rules edited Senator stops by Diakonia, Continued from Page 80 olation. There has to be common sense, context, and legitimate connections to our schools. Our goal should be to protect our school system.” Additionally, the board previously debated whether employees should be prohibited from both authoring and sharing problematic content, ultimately choosing to use only the term “author.” Stansbury said the policy should be viewed as a starting point that can be reviewed as technology and social media practices continue to evolve. Ferrante described the policy as a “working document,” saying the board can revisit the language if portions prove too broad, unclear, or ineffective. The social media policy was mentioned during the public comments section of Tuesday’s board meeting. Thomas Hamill, WCPS coordinator of research and student information, spoke to the new guidelines as a district citizen. Hamill said that while he believes the current board and school administration have good intentions in drafting a new social media framework, he is concerned future leadership could misinterpret the approved standards. “My concern is not about how this board would use the policy,” Hamill said. “My concern is how a future board, superintendent, or administra-
tor would. Terms like “role model,” “public confidence,” “likely to impair,” even “profane,” sound reasonable until we ask who gets to decide that. What makes somebody a role model? What damages public confidence? What counts as profanity? Those answers can change dramatically depending on the person’s politics, religion, culture, or personal values.” He added that “a progressive administration could target a conservative employee, and a conservative one could target a progressive employee.” Hamill asked that the board narrow the language and tie discipline to concrete misconduct like harassment or disruption of school operations. Still, the board approved the revised social media policy with the understanding it can be revisited. It emphasized that the superintendent’s role is to act objectively when assigning consequences for violations. The updated guidelines follow an incident last fall in which a Worcester County educator posted a political message on his social media account. The teacher’s controversial sentiment was directed at Charlie Kirk, a popular political figure and Donald Trump advocate who was assassinated in September during a rally at Utah Valley University. The new policy aims to clarify the school system’s stance on employees’ behavior on social media platforms.
says expansion is a priority Van Hollen said Diakonia provides a By Tara Fischer vital service for families, veterans, and Staff Writer (Aug. 20, 2026) As part of U.S. Sen. others experiencing homelessness. Chris Van Hollen’s (D-Md.) visit to the “It’s essential,” he added. “I mean, Eastern Shore last week, the represen- this is one of the very few places here on tative toured Diakonia to see firsthand the Shore where people can come and how the nonprofit supports unhoused get the kind of help that they provide families and veterans in the area and to here for families, for veterans, for othdiscuss the organization’s request for $1 ers. I mean, if you’re really down and litmillion in federal funding. erally out, this is a place that opens its The visit was one doors for you.” of several stops Van Diakonia Execu‘This is for people who are tive Director Ken Hollen made in Worcester County as unhoused. This is a place they Argot said the organhe prepared for the can come for shelter and also ization has been servMaryland Associa- that supportive and transitional ing the area for more tion of Counties sumhousing and get themselves than 50 years and has developed its mer conference in back on their feet.’ programs specifically Ocean City. Chris Van Hollen, around the needs of During his visit, the unique Eastern Van Hollen stopped U.S. Sen. (D-Md.) Shore community. by the Diakonia facilVan Hollen also ity in West Ocean City and learned more about the orga- spoke to a grant request during his visit nization’s plans to expand its supportive last week. The nonprofit organization is housing, food pantry, and other serv- seeking $1 million in federal funding for the first phase of a planned expansion. ices. This initial stage would include a vet“When you walk in the doors of Diakonia, you can see why we need a place erans and outreach office, an expanded like this,” Van Hollen said. “This is for food pantry, and improvements to Dipeople who are unhoused. This is a akonia’s thrift store. Argot said the expanded pantry place they can come for shelter and also that supportive and transitional housing would move away from the traditional and get themselves back on their feet.” See DIAKONIA Page 82
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AUGUST 21, 2026
OC approves $9 million bid for airport work Construction contract for second phase of overdue taxiway enhancements By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Aug. 21, 2026) With the first phase of a taxiway project now complete, Ocean City officials this week approved a $9.7 million bid award for the next round of work at the Ocean City Municipal Airport. As part of Monday’s agenda, the City Council approved a bid award totaling $9,775,947 to David A. Bramble
Inc. for the second phase of taxiway improvements at the airport. Despite the project’s hefty price tag, officials report that grant funding from both the Maryland Aviation Administration and the Federal Aviation Administration will bring the total local match to just over $391,000. Last fall, the city kicked off a project to relocate Taxiway A. According to staff, the existing taxiway had not only met the end of its useful life, but did not meet FAA design standards for runway separation. “It serves two purposes, the first being that the pavement is really old.
We’ve been limping along for a long time …,” Giandomenico explained in an interview last month. “Second, it addresses FAA standards.” City officials selected a regional construction company to lead the project, the first phase of which continued throughout the winter and spring and into the early part of the summer season. The second phase will allow crews to reconstruct the final 1,650 feet of pavement, as well as install lighting, among other things. “When we say we’re rehabbing it, we’re going all the way to the dirt …,” Giandomenico said last month. “It gets
expensive.” During Monday’s meeting, the city selected David A. Bramble, one of two vendors to submit bids for the second round of improvements. Staff say the contract will be contingent on grant offers from both the MAA and FAA. The council on Monday also approved a $591,675 bid award to Suburban Contractors LLC, to complete painting and repairs to both the 1st Street and 100th Street water tanks. The vote comes one week after officials received four vendor proposals, of which Suburban Contractors offered the lowest bid.
Diakonia seeking $1 million to grow facility Continued from Page 81 model of simply handing people preselected food and instead allow individuals to shop for the items they need. The space could also create employment opportunities. Additionally, the organization hopes to increase the thrift store’s contribution to its operating revenue. Argot said the store currently accounts for about 10% of Diakonia’s income, with a goal of increasing that figure to between 20% and 25%. Future phases of the project would
eventually include more than 50 housing units across three apartment buildings. One of the buildings would be dedicated to single-resident veterans, a population Argot said can be particularly difficult to find housing for. The remaining units would include studios, onebedroom units, and larger apartments. Argot said the project is intended to address the area’s shortage of affordable housing and provide people with a path from homelessness to permanent housing. Argot said Diakonia has already se-
cured about half of the funding needed for the overall project, with the organization planning to raise the remaining funds through a fundraising campaign. Van Hollen said his office reviewed Diakonia’s funding request and supports the organization’s efforts. “We were able to see what those funds would be used for,” Van Hollen said. “And it’s part of supporting the overall operation. And so, we want to be a partner with them in the good work they’re doing.” The federal funding request remains
pending. Van Hollen acknowledged that securing an earmark requires navigating a lengthy process but said he considers Diakonia’s request a priority. “I’ve heard a lot of positive things about Diakonia, which is why we did submit your request,” Van Hollen said. “We think it’s a priority, so we’re going to try to push it through what is a very tortuous process.” Diakonia has a fundraising event planned for Nov. 6 as it continues working toward funding the expansion initiative.
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Commissioners tackle water leaks By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Aug. 21, 2026) You open your water bill and see that your usage has somehow tripled. Neither you nor Worcester County can explain why. Are you supposed to just roll over and pay for all that water? Under a county policy adopted in June, not necessarily. Worcester County’s water leak adjustment policy gets its name from its basic purpose: reducing unusually high bills caused by water leaking from a customer’s plumbing. County officials now are considering applying the policy retroactively to about a dozen households that had already disputed unusually high charges. The commissioners asked staff Tuesday to review those cases and report back. The policy had not been updated since 2010. County documents say the June 2 revision was meant to account for newer metering technology and to make billing adjustment rules clearer and more consistent. The update also created relief for unexplained high usage, even when no leak or other cause can be identified. To qualify, the bill in question must show a customer’s water use spiking to at least three times the av-
erage of the previous 12 months, and usage must later return to normal. Customers have 30 days from the billing date to request an adjustment. After the policy changed, Public Works heard from customers who had been denied relief or had no way to seek it under the former rules, according to department head Dallas Baker. In response, the department asked commissioners to reopen water bills dating to July 1, 2025, when new countywide rate structures took effect. But Tuesday’s discussion revealed a basic disagreement over how broadly that request should apply. Public Works proposed reopening a full year of bills, and county finance staff analyzed what that could cost. Commissioner Chip Bertino said he thought officials were considering only whether to revisit existing disputes. “Why are we looking back, opening it up to everybody?” asked Bertino (District 5, Ocean Pines). To estimate the potential cost, county staff looked for accounts showing unusually large jumps in water use. They found 2,406 where usage had at least tripled. That did not mean all 2,406 customers were entitled to relief. It meant
only that their water use had tripled – the first test under the policy. If every flagged account applied and received an adjustment, staff estimated the county’s exposure at approximately $140,000, not including the staff time needed to review applications. Commissioners pointed out that a big bill does not always mean something went wrong. Sometimes, a customer simply used more water. Commissioner Joe Mitrecic asked whether someone who failed to winterize a house should receive relief after a pipe burst. He also offered the example of a spike in water use stemming from a house full of guests. “Because of somebody’s negligence, we can’t be giving away all that water,” said Mitrecic (District 7, Ocean City). The water leak adjustment policy as written prohibits adjustments for negligence, willful damage, or failure to repair known plumbing problems. Baker estimated that about a dozen customers had taken disputed bills before the grievance committee during the previous year. Bertino moved to have staff review those cases and report back. Mitrecic seconded the motion. It passed 4-0, with Commissioners Caryn Abbott, Ted Elder, and Eric Fiori absent.
OBITUARIES WALTER RAY SCHWARTZBECK Ocean City It is with great sadness that Walter Ray Schwartzbeck passed away June 25, 2026 at the young age of 69. Ray lived in the Ocean City area for 30 years. Born Nov, 25, 1950, from Washington D.C., Ray battled complications from a stroke. Ray is survived by his daughter Krystal and granddaughter Lynn from the Florida area. He was the son of the late Rodney Schwartzbeck Sr. and W. Schwartzbeck mother Louise, and had three brothers. Ray had always had the art of building and had his own construction company for many years. He also had a knack working on cars. Ray was smart and hard-working, he could do about anything mechanical. He loved the beach, pier fishing and walking to the Boardwalk for ice cream. Ray had the love for animals, his besties Ace, Lucy, Coco and the cat Inky, they so adored him. He leaves behind many friends – his girlfriend Debra Vendetti, Tara Vendetti, Aaron Evans and many more. His presence will be deeply missed and forever cherished. Continued on Page 84
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AUGUST 21, 2026
OBITUARIES Continued from Page 83 He will be forever remembered as someone who would give you the shirt off his back and ask for nothing. May his memories be eternal. RONALD M. WILLIAMS Frederick Our beloved, Ronald Michael Williams, 83, departed this life in Frederick, MD and went Home to be with the Lord on 08/14/2026. He is survived by his wife Suzanne, his daughter, Christine, and her husband Ken. The family will remember him privately as he requested no service. ALICE J. UNGER Berlin Alice JoAnn Unger, age 83, passed away on August 15, 2026, in Berlin, Maryland. Born on April 21, 1943, in Baltimore, Maryland, she was the daughter of the late Arthur Flaxcomb and Alice (Kramer) Flaxcomb. While JoAnn enjoyed a long career in the health insurance Alice J. Unger field, she found her true purpose in civic duty. She discovered it to be both rewarding and fulfilling in assisting the Mayors of Berlin and the Town of Berlin in achieving their objectives. She truly appreciated the people she
worked with and formed long lasting friendships with so many. Personally, she took great pride in always being put together from hair and makeup to “just the right amount of jewelry" as well as exercising and staying in shape. While maintaining an air of dignity, she was thrilled to enjoy a well poured Guinness and unafraid to sing quite loudly, her favorite Irish music. She created purposeful time to be spent with friends, coworkers, her Ya-Ya’s and family. She was steadfast and walked proudly in her faith and in the end, was an example of what we all strive to be, as she moto’d “works in progress”. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sisters – Sherry Palmer and Patricia Liquefatto. JoAnn is survived by her son Christopher and his fiance Patty, with whom she resided, and her son Mark. In addition, she leaves behind her grandchildren – Blake Unger, Travis Unger (Sharmila), Patrick Unger (Kara), and Noah Unger; and her bonus grandchildren – Brynn Latchum and Keegan Latchum. JoAnn’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Coastal Hospice for the exceptional care, empathy and graciousness shown to mom. Shonda was a light in mom’s darkest times and we are forever indebted.
A viewing will take place at The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin on Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Interment at Garden of the Pines Cemetery in Berlin will follow the viewing hours. Letters of condolence may be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home-Berlin. BRADY S. BOWMAN Ocean City Brady Scott Bowman, a cherished father, devoted partner and friend, and beloved community member, passed away peacefully on August 8, 2026, following a battle with throat cancer. Born on August 4, 1963, in York, Pennsylvania, Brady was the son of the late Elnora Elizabeth Markey and Brady Brady Bowman Homer Bowman Jr. During his early childhood, he moved with his mother from Pennsylvania to Ocean City, where he would become a familiar face in the community. Brady was preceded in death by his parents; his lifelong stepfather, James Edward McGaha; his sister, Susan Diehl; and his nieces, Kerry Jo Harris and Danielle Kreeger. He leaves behind his two devoted daugh-
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Yom Kippur
Rosh Hashanah Services Friday. Sept 11th, 7pm Saturday. Sept. 12th, 10am, and 2pm Family Service
Sunday. Sept. 20th, 7pm Monday. Sept 21st, 10am, 2pm & 3pm Yiskor (Ask about Break the Fast Dinner at District 24 Restaurant)
Call for Reservations A Year-Round Reform Congregation Serving Delmarva’s Eastern Shore
11036 Worcester Hwy., Berlin, MD 21811 302 448 8697 o. 410 641 4311 www.templebatyam-oc.org
ters, Allison Huovinen (Evin) and Shelby Bowman (Tess), affectionately known to him as his “Bee” and his “Bear,” as well as their mother and his close friend, Cynthia Hof. He is also survived by Lisa Hevner Bentz, his best friend and partner of 21 years; his uncle, Joe Diehl, and his wife Patti; his nieces, Wendy Torres and Karen Kreeger; many greatnieces and nephews; and his loyal fur baby of 21 years, Tazbo. Brady's career was as diverse as his interests. Early on, he owned a valet parking service for the Bonfire Restaurant and spent many years bartending at several establishments throughout town, most notably the old Pirates Den. He later pursued a career in plumbing, successfully operating his own business, Miranda Mechanical, and working alongside several companies in the area. For the past eight years, he worked with RYT Plumbing, where he formed close friendships with Roy, Michael, Tyler, and many others. A proud member of the Sons of the American Legion Post 166 in Ocean City, Brady was an avid skateboarder in his youth, an exceptional pool player, and enjoyed playing shuffleboard. Brady never seemed to meet a stranger, and wherever he went, he was surrounded by friends, stories, and plenty of laughter. Brady’s love for animals remained constant throughout his life. He shared his life with several beloved dogs, including Dondi, Chevas, and Cato. He was also known locally for his pet goat Miranda. A cherished birthday gift from Lisa, Miranda quickly became a familiar sight around town and an unforgettable part of Brady’s life. More than anything, Brady will be remembered for his strong will, loving nature, and unforgettable sense of humor. He would do anything for anyone and always had time for a laugh or a helping hand. His family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the doctors and nurses who provided exemplary care throughout his cancer journey, from Tidal Health to Jefferson University in Philadelphia. Brady will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his family, close friends, and the many people who knew him throughout the community. His kindness, humor, and love will live on in the hearts of many. The date and time of his Celebration of Life will be shared once arrangements are finalized.
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Sports & Recreation
OC Today-Dispatch August 21, 2026
Page 85
www.octodaydispatch.com
PHOTOS COURTESY OF FISH IN OC
POOR GIRLS OPEN RAISES $175K Last weekend’s Poor Girls Open attracted 936 lady anglers competing for $258,460 in prize money. Taking home the top individual boat payout of $139,140 was the Playmate, pictured top left, which took home first place in the billfish release category with a female angler currently battling cancer for the second time in her life. Rounding out the top prize money winners were the Grande Pez, top right, $35,100, first place tuna and first place dolphin; Boss Hog, above left, $29,106, second place billfish; Action Jackson, #21,195, second place wahoo; Wrecker, above right, $19,404, third place billfish; Gulfstream, $7,209, second place dolphin; Spring Mix II, third place dolphin, $4,806; and Game On, $2,500, first place wahoo. The event raised $175,000 for the American Cancer Society.
MIDATLANTIC UNDERWAY More than 200 boats are seeking a chunk of the more than $6.6 million up for grabs in this week’s MidAtlantic Tournament, which operates out of Cape May, New Jersey and Ocean City. After a quiet first day due to rough seas, most of the participating fished on Tuesday and Wednesday out of the ports. The top catches weighed in Tuesday at Sunset Marina was the first-place, 80-pound white marlin, right, caught aboard the Boss Hogg. An 80-pound white marlin, for what it’s worth, won the White Marlin Open earlier this month. Far right, the CBoys brought to the docks this 471pound blue marlin, which subsequently bested by the Shark Byte’s 599 pounder and the MJS crew’s 532 pounder, both fish weighed in New Jersey. In the tuna category, Ocean City-based boats were dominating after Tuesday with the Talkin Trash in first place with a 182-pound big eye followed by the Following Seas with a 126-pounder and the Spring Mix II with a 114-pound beauty. The tourney runs through Friday. PHOTOS COURTESY OF SUNSET MARINA
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AUGUST 21, 2026
OPST enjoys perfect summer (Aug. 21, 2026) The Ocean Pines Swim Team (OPST) has officially closed the book on one of the team’s most successful seasons. The Hammerheads completed an undefeated 60 Delmarva Swim Association (DSA) summer dual meet season before capturing the Division I Championship Title at the Allan Nelson Championship Meet at Salisbury University with a record 79 Hammerheads qualifying to attend. In addition to the team title, OPST claimed High Point honors in the 8 & Under Girls, 9-10 Girls, 1314 Girls and 15-18 Girls divisions, while the 13-14 Boys tied for first with MAKO Swim Club. At the championship meet, swimmers across every age group posted personal best performances, moved up in event placements and contributed valuable points. The team's youngest competitors proved especially impactful, with the 10 & Under swimmers accounting for approximately 40 percent of the team's total points. The Hammerheads finished the meet with 30 new team records, 23 first-place finishes, 10 second-place finishes, 10 third-place finishes and an impressive 77 additional scoring finishes from fourth through twelfth place. Just days later, 18 year-round Hammerheads traveled to St. Mary's College of Maryland for the state Swimming Long Course Championships. In another record-setting milestone for the program, this was the largest group ever to qualify, including three 10 & Under swimmers: Rowan Aguillon (10),
Finnley Greenwood (10) and Emmy McKay (9). Karis Bagley (15), Kendall Bagley (17), Alex Dypsky (17), Emily Fink (15), Nate Fink (17), Macie Groves (16), Finley Helfrich (14), Ilya Karcheuski (14), Gabe Laizans (14), Aaralyn Lillquist (12), Patrick Murphy (13), John Parker (15), Vincent Schicchi (17), Madison Trimper (14) and Bryn Wanner (14) made up the remainder of team. The Hammerheads continued their momentum by capturing seven MD Long Course Championship titles. Karis Bagley won the 15 & Over Girls 100-meter Butterfly (1:03.81) while earning her first USA Swimming Futures qualifying cut. Kendall Bagley captured the 15 & Over 200meter Butterfly title (2:27.60) securing her existing Sectionals cut. Bryn Wanner dominated the 13-14 Girls Freestyle events, winning five state championships in the 100 (59.55), 200 (2:08.77), 400 (4:33.97), 800 (9:38.96) and 1,500-meter Freestyle (17:52.85) adding more Sectionals cuts to her growing list. Aaralyn Lillquist also added multiple medals to the team's total including runner-up honors in the 11/12 Girls 200-meter Breaststroke and third-place finishes in both the 50-meter Breaststroke and 100-meter Butterfly. The remainder of the team contributed another 33 top-16 finishes, advancing to championship finals and adding valuable team points throughout
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Qualifiers for the long course championship are pictured after a practice.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Some of the swimmers on the age 10-and-under girls team are pictured at the DSA Championship.
the meet as well as breaking 35 team records! While teammates competed in Maryland, Kate Wanner (16) represented OPST on the national stage at USA Swimming's TYR Futures Championship in Knoxville, Tennessee, becoming the first OPST swimmer to qualify for and compete at the prestigious meet. Wanner qualified in the 50-, 100- and 200meter Breaststroke events while also adding two time trials to her schedule. She recorded personalbest times in every event, established four new team records and achieved four additional qualifying cuts, including yet another OPST first - qualifying for USA Swimming's Junior Nationals jumping two steps closer to Olympic Trials. The accomplishments cap Head Coach Scott McIntire's second full year leading the program, during which the Hammerheads have continued to grow while establishing themselves as one of the region's premier developmental swim teams. Following a well-earned three-week break, the Hammerheads will return to the pool this fall to begin preparations for the 2026-2027 season.
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AUGUST 21, 2026
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AUGUST 21, 2026