OC Today-Dispatch AUGUST 28, 2026
STUBBORNLY LOCAL, EQUALLY INDEPENDENT
PRICELESS
How is biz in OC? Lighter crowds seen A series of interviews conducted this week reflect concerns from Ocean City operators across many industries. Speculation as to why tourism is down varies amid mounting reports of slow season — PAGE 3
PHOTO COURTESY OF MARK PUGH
AWAY IT GOES Though the launch was from Cape Canaveral, Florida, many area residents, such as this photographer were able to clearly see the early-morning SpaceX Falcon 9 Starlink launch off the coast on Tuesday morning.
Jeeps, hot air, seafood
For second time, court slaps county
Citing lack of reasoning and seemingly ignoring recommendation from This last weekend of August brings several special events to Ocean planning group, court City, including the 12th Annual OC Jeep Fest, which began Thursday; orders county to give the Summer Send Off event featuring hot air balloons; and a seafood another look at rezoning festival hosted at Northside Park. — SEE INSIDE FOR EVENT PREVIEWS request. — PAGE 20
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OC Today-Dispatch
AUGUST 28, 2026
AUGUST 28, 2026
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Business owners say sales are down this year, as evident by fewer crowds on the Ocean City Boardwalk than in years past. The Boardwalk is pictured Tuesday.
Summer business slower as resort’s tourism trends shift City leaders report shorter busy season, some argue sports complex could help By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Aug. 28, 2026) Before a crowded room in City Hall last week, Councilman John Gehrig spent 20 minutes arguing why a sports complex was needed in Worcester County. At the heart of his passionate plea was one message – tourism trends are changing, and the city needs to bring new guests to the area. “It's the slow drip, and it’s impacting us right now …,” he told the public. “I want to fix it.” Pointing to lodging data, Gehrig said that the average length of stay in Ocean City is down an estimated 30% from two decades prior. Faced with more vacation options, he said the days of bringing people to the resort for a week are “declining fast.” So what impact does this shift have on local businesses and Worcester County’s top industry? From a 50year veteran in the beach stand business to the operator of a hotel management company to a legacy family restaurateur, the OC TodayDispatch conducted a series of interviews to better understand just that. Here’s what they are saying. Restaurateur feeling the shift Cole Taustin, operator of several restaurant brands within the District 24 complex on 23rd Street, agreed that vacation trends are changing. In the last five years, he said, people have changed their spending habits. “Our customers are more discerning than they’ve ever been, they’ve got more options than they ever have, and the cost to do it is higher than
ever,” he said. “So, we need to make sure when they are coming and spending their hard-earned dollars, that they are getting what it is that they think is worth the value of that dollar.” At BLU Crabhouse & Raw Bar, for example, his menu mix has changed, with fewer patrons purchasing allyou-can-eat crab feasts and more patrons opting for an entree item. “Oddly enough, my handheld sales are down and entree sales are up,” he said. “But when a guest comes in and we’re talking to them, they’re saying, ‘This is the only night we’re going out to dinner, so we want to get something nice.’ So they aren’t coming in for a sandwich or a taco. They are saying, ‘I want crabcakes,’ or ‘I want a nice fish.’” Taustin said he is also seeing fewer patrons come through his doors. “I’m cutting hours every day,” he said. “By 8:30, it’s pretty much over. I’m not going on a wait. This is the first year I’ve spent more days not on a wait, then on a wait, ever, since the day Blu opened.” Taustin said restaurants have been feeling the financial strain longer than anyone else, with casual dining restaurants feeling it first. While people are still taking vacations, he said they are sticking to budgets, eating in more often, and are more conscientious about their spending habits. “We have a volatility nightmare going on,” he said. “Everybody says the seasons are getting longer. Yeah, we might be doing more in the shoulder season, but we’re doing less in the summer. When you spread it out over the whole year, we’re working twice as hard for the same amount of money.” See BUSINESS Page 13
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Stunning New Construction in Ocean Pines – Move-In Ready! Built by RBR Homes LLC, this exceptional 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home has just been completed and is ready for immediate occupancy in the desirable Tipple Crown section of Ocean Pines. From the moment you arrive, you'll appreciate the home's charming coastal character, highlighted by beautiful blue siding and an inviting front porch. Inside, thoughtful design, high-end finishes, and exceptional craftsmanship are evident throughout. MDWO203878
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302 FRANKLIN AVE • BERLIN • $410,000 Welcome to 302 Franklin Ave, a beautifully renovated 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom single-family home in the heart of downtown Berlin. This home is move-in ready and perfect as a primary residence, vacation getaway, or investment property. MDWO2039372
Welcome to this beautifully updated top-floor 2-bedroom, 2-bath waterfront condo in Hidden Harbour III, complete with Boat Slip #98. Ideally located just a few blocks from the beach and within walking distance of Northside Park, this fully furnished property is movein ready and waiting for you to start enjoying the coastal lifestyle. MDWO2039360
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131 OLD WHARF RD • CAINE KEYS OCEAN CITY • $899,900 Experience the best of coastal waterfront living in this charming 3BR/2BA home situated on a spacious 7,500square-foot lot in the desirable Caine Keys community. Just a short stroll to the beach, this exceptional property offers the perfect combination of waterfront living, outdoor recreation, and coastal convenience. MDWO2039952
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538 YACHT CLUB DR COLONIAL VILLAGE OCEAN PINES $1,749,900
Situated on a private, serene half-acre waterfront lot in the desirable Colonial Village section of Ocean Pines, this spectacular 4-bedroom, 3 full bath, 2 half bath home offers over 4,289 square feet of beautifully designed living space with exceptional indoor and outdoor amenities. The home is strategically positioned via view-oriented architecture to guarantee water views. Just a short stroll to the Ocean Pines Yacht Club, two community pools, the Pines Point Provisions restaurant, and the Pines Point Marina; this is coastal living at its finest. MDWO2040086
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Welcome to this stunning 2BR/2BA direct oceanfront, two-level condominium in the sought-after Century Building. Perfectly positioned on the 14th floor, this spacious residence offers breathtaking panoramic views up and down the beach, along with spectacular bay sunsets. MDWO2039648
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Build Your Dream Home! A rare opportunity has just become available in the prestigious Lighthouse Sound community! This expansive 20,237.00 sq ft lot - one of the largest in the neighborhood - offers the perfect setting to build your dream home. Ideally situated on the corner of Fox Ridge and Southampton Drive. Enjoy a lifestyle of luxury and leisure in a community recognized by Golf Magazine as one of the Top 100 golf courses in the country. Lighthouse Sound has an elegant clubhouse and a highly rated restaurant - perfect for relaxing after a round of golf. MDWO2034644
Rare Opportunity: Build Your Dream Home on a Prime Waterfront Lot! Seize the chance to create your ideal residence on this exceptional 0.73-acre waterfront lot, nestled on an expansive sandy beach within the highly sought-after gated community of Glen Riddle. Enjoy panoramic views of the Ocean City skyline, and breathtaking vistas of Turville and Hearing Creek, as well as the Assawoman Bay. Glen Riddle is an amenity-rich community. MDWO2023166
Prime commercial location in Selbyville of 8.4 acres. This is a rare commercial development opportunity on the busy intersection of Lighthouse Sound Rd. (Route 54) and Hudson Rd. There are already many existing new homes surrounding this property and more than 3,200 additional homes are coming soon. This is the perfect location for a shopping center, multiple smaller retail businesses, and/or medical or other professional offices to serve these homes and the entire Selbyville, Bayside, Fenwick, Ocean City area. The Seller will finance up to 70% of the purchase price at 1 percent below the current prime lending rate for up to 5 years. The property is located 8 miles from the beach! DESU2044978
Beautifully maintained 2BR/1BA top-floor condo located just minutes from the beach and boardwalk! This move-in-ready unit features a bright and spacious open floor plan that is perfect for entertaining. Being on the top floor provides added privacy and peace with no neighbors overhead. MDWO2037970
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Luxury Ocean Block Townhome with Private Heated Pool, Elevator & Proven Rental Income! Built in 2022, this fully furnished ocean block 4BR/5BA luxury townhome, with no HOA or condo fees, offers ocean views, a private heated pool, private elevator, a large finished loft, ample covered parking, and an impressive $158,000 in annual gross rental income – all just steps from the beach at 80th Street. MDWO2039110
201 S HERON DR #26B HARBOUR CLUB OCEAN CITY • $549,900
12971 INLET ISLE LANE ESTATES AT INLET ISLE OCEAN CITY NOW $2,350,000
311 S. HERON GULL CT HERON HARBOUR ISLE OCEAN CITY OFFERED AT $2.3 MILLION
MOBILE HOME PARKS FENWICK ISLAND, DE OFFERED AT $2.1 MILLION EACH $4.2 MILLION TOTAL This is a prime location in sought-after Fenwick Island! This is an extremely rare opportunity to purchase C-1 commercial land in Fenwick Island DE close to the beach and Atlantic Ocean. A salty breeze carries the scent of the Atlantic Ocean as you stand on these 4 commercially zoned C1 parcels in Fenwick Island. DESU2059932
Wow—this stunning 2BR/2.5BA waterfront condo with a deeded boat slip #31 in Harbour Club is truly one of a kind. Completely remodeled between 2022 and 2025, this home showcases modern coastal luxury throughout and is one of the largest floor plans in Harbour Club. Deeded Boat Slip #31 conveys with the sale. The condo is being sold furnished, beautifully designed in neutral tones and ready for immediate enjoyment. MDWO2035916
Stunning custom 5BR/5BA waterfront estate located in the prestigious Estates at Inlet Isle Lane in West Ocean City. This exceptional home offers panoramic views of the marina, bay, canal, and ocean, with unforgettable sunrises and sunsets. Boaters will love the deepwater slip accommodating up to a 42-foot boat with easy inlet access. The modern coastal exterior features clean white lines, stone accents, and striking black details. MDWO2039084
Experience direct waterfront living with breathtaking bay views in this stunning luxury 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath singlefamily home in the soughtafter Heron Harbour Isle community. A charming white exterior sets the tone with a classic coastal, nautical vibe, complemented by beautiful new navy-blue front doors. Perfectly positioned on the water, the home includes a private boat slip with lift and a vinyl bulkhead— ideal for boating enthusiasts! MLS MDWO2037574
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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PAGE 6
OC Today-Dispatch
AUGUST 28, 2026
Homelessness concerns aired, more patrols eyed Sunset Park and Inlet Park reported as problem areas
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By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Aug. 28, 2026) City Manager Terry McGean said he has tasked the Ocean City Police Department with increasing patrols in Sunset Park after receiving complaints from a downtown resident about homeless individuals sleeping, drinking and storing property in the area. At the end of last Monday’s meeting, downtown resident Scott Chismar came before the Ocean City Council to voice his concerns about homeless activity in the downtown area. Specifically, Chismar shared complaints about homeless individuals sleeping and gathering at Sunset Park, Inlet Park and the Boardwalk tram station. “We’re not going to solve homelessness, but what we’re doing now is not working,” he said, “and it’s progressively getting worse.” While commending the town’s work in managing both Northside Park and the Bayside Park at 3rd Street, Chismar told city leaders last week they were neglecting both Sunset Park and Inlet Park. He said something needed to be done to address what he sees as a growing homeless issue downtown. “Whatever we have going on right now is not working,” he said. “We need to take a look at what we’re doing and we need to revamp or retool and get refocused on what we’re doing. Sunset Park is an absolute mess right now. It’s a mess, you guys. It’s terrible. It’s a mess. Inlet Park, down at the end, it’s a mess.” Chismar said he had reached out to the city months back about a man living on a bench at one of the downtown parks. He also shared the story of that same individual urinating by a man and his child, who were fishing nearby. See OCPD Page 10
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AUGUST 28, 2026
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OC Today-Dispatch
AUGUST 28, 2026
OCPD to increase park patrols
BETHANY HOOPER/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
A resident shared stories last week about homeless individuals in the downtown, including Sunset Park, pictured. The city manager has asked the police department to increase patrols.
Continued from Page 6 “I’m out there talking to a man and his young kid fishing. He wakes up from the bench, goes over to the tree, relieves himself, goes right back to sleep. And the guy was just speechless with his kid,” he told the council. “To this day, this very minute, his belongings are still under that bench. It’s been there for months, and it’s still there. “I have compassion. I feel bad for these folks, but they need some help. And those that don’t need help, we need to figure out a way to deal with it.” Chismar went on to share other stories, including one of homeless individuals harassing his family at Sunset Park and another of homeless individuals sleeping at the Boardwalk tram station. “This morning at 6:15, the folks at
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public works that do a great job of cleaning the Boardwalk, the old terminus for the tram station, folks sleeping all over,” he said. “They couldn’t come in and clean, they didn’t want to mess with that.” Chismar also voiced concerns about individuals drinking at Sunset Park. He said on one occasion, about a week ago, he had approached a nearby police officer. “The response that we got back was ‘yeah, but we were told to stand down and not get engaged with these folks because there’s a lawsuit that’s going on,’” he recalled, referencing the lawsuit between the city and St. Paul’s, the downtown church operating a homeless shelter. “One should have nothing to do with the other. To turn a blind eye and let those two parks deteriorate like they are, is just unacceptable.” Later in the meeting, however, McGean took time to address Chismar’s concerns, adding that there had been no directive given for police officers to stop enforcing the city’s laws because of the ongoing lawsuit. “Quite the opposite, I actually asked the police chief after you called me, I believe two or three weeks ago, to begin to increase patrols at Sunset Park, and I will reiterate that request to him,” he said. “We actually do have a law on the book that prohibits sleeping in public places. So that does already exist.” While on the topic, Councilman John Gehrig asked for the police chief to provide an update on the department’s initiatives involving homelessness at a future meeting. Council President Matt James also addressed the issue of individuals sleeping on the Boardwalk. “Terry, I also think it would be beneficial if you followed up with the chief and made sure the message was very clear,” he said. “If people are sleeping or blocking a place that public works is trying to clean in the morning … if they are in the way, maybe they need to be moving along. So maybe a patrol, or a sweep of the Boardwalk in the morning before public works hits it would be beneficial, so they can clean everything they need to clean before it opens up for the day.”
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AUGUST 28, 2026
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AUGUST 28, 2026
Business trailing last summer Continued from Page 3 Taustin said a proposed sports complex – one that would bring in families with discretionary income – could bring stability. In the meantime, he said businesses will need to pivot to meet the needs of those who are currently here. “The Ocean City we grew up in is not the Ocean City that we live in anymore, and everybody needs to wake up and realize that,” he said. “It’s not a bad thing, it’s just different. And the people that are coming here are the same people, but with a different perspective. And we need to adjust for that.” Upscale eatery weathering the downturn Over at The Hobbit Restaurant on 81st Street, owner Garvey Heiderman said he’s seen the economic downturn coming since 2023. With savings at an all-time high during the pandemic, he said consumers had more money to spend. Now, he said, they are struggling to afford their vacations. “At a certain point, we were extremely busy, in 2022, 2023 and even in 2024 …,” he said. “To me, it only made sense that we were going to get slower. You can only have record years so many years in a row.” Now, he said, the average length of stay is decreasing. And with it, restaurant business sales mirror. “Grocery stores are doing extremely well,” he said. “If a hotel has a kitchenette, it’s doing extremely well.” Heiderman said his fine dining establishment has fared better than most restaurants in town, as it caters to patrons with more discretionary income. However, that doesn’t mean business is up. “Our average client base is a little more impervious to economic downturns,” he said, “and we are still down.” Using the number of dinners sold as his metric, Heiderman said business has been short of last year most weeks this summer. “If I am flat from a volume standpoint – if I’m as busy as I was last
year – that feels like a huge win for me,” he said. “There are a couple of weeks where I’m up, more weeks where I’m down, and some where I’m flat … There’s no rhyme or reason to it.” Heiderman said he was most surprised by White Marlin Open week. While business typically booms during the fishing tournament, numbers this year didn’t quite meet the mark. “We were a little slower every day,” he said. “Typically, every day feels like a Friday or Saturday, and it didn’t feel like that this year.” That being said, Heiderman said he believes Ocean City is still doing better than other east coast resorts. But he argued a sports complex would bring with it more revenue. “I think it’s not the end-all-be-all savior,” he said, “but I think whenever there’s an economic downturn, a sports complex will bring stability to our area.” “This is a classic scenario where rising tides raise all ships,” he added. “If you can afford to go to tournaments, you are typically in a different echelon of the economy.” 2026 ‘not going to be a banner year’ for hospitality Michael James said business has been steady at the eight hotels he operates under the James Hospitality umbrella. In July, for example, revenues and occupancy are up year over year. However, he said the city’s peak summer months have seen a shift in the last decade. The season, he said, is getting shorter. “That primetime peak season is probably a week or two shorter than it used to be,” he said. Now, James said, the height of the season starts in late June and ends earlier in August. This year, he added, August will be harder to gauge, as a later Labor Day has pushed the holiday weekend into September. “I wouldn't say it's a bad summer,” he said, “but it’s not going to be a banner year.” In addition to shorter peak seasons, James said he is also seeing an See RESORT’S Page 14
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Resort’s busy season shorter, fewer visitors Continued from Page 13 uptick in inventory, with more vacation rentals and branded hotels coming onto the market. At James Hospitality, he said his company is trying to capitalize on repeat customers and the family vacation. “It’s much easier to bring back a customer than to find a new customer,” he said. “It’s more efficient, more productive.” Moving forward, James said he would like to see the city focus its marketing dollars on the months of May to September, as off-season business is not nearly as profitable. “When you are marketing for the off-season months, the customers are staying for a much shorter period of time and they are paying 50% to 80% less,” he said. “From a marketing standpoint, the town’s efforts should be focused on the prime season.” “Ocean City has so much to offer,” he added. “It’s such a great town, and I think businesses really need to focus on the positives. We are safe, clean, affordable and have a wide variety of things to do and places to stay.” Convenience store business dips Like many in the industry, May was a bad month for Will Savage, a city councilman who operates the Boardwalk Convenience Store at the
Majestic Hotel on 7th Street. It all started in mid-May, during what was supposed to be Boardwalk Rock weekend. Sales at his store, compared to the year prior, plummeted. “That was the difference between having a jam-packed Boardwalk and nothing at all,” he said. “I would’ve been better off closed that weekend.” By Memorial Day, a rainy weekend washed away any hopes of salvaging the month, Savage said. “That killed May,” he said. Since then, business at the store has been down month after month, with June revenues down 28% and July revenues down 22%. Savage said the numbers for August, so far, have improved from prior months. “In August, we are hustling on the weekends,” he said. “I expect those numbers to flatten.” Ultimately, Savage said business at his store is down in what is typically the height of the city’s tourism season. While 2025 was a “phenomenal year” for the store, he said consumer spending is off in 2026. “The only thing I can contribute it to is gas prices,” he said. “Beyond that, the weather has been fine.” Savage said he has also noticed a shift in visitation. While business is strong on the weekends, he said Mon-
days, Tuesdays and Wednesdays are slow. “It’s pretty clear driving around town,” he said. “There’s no traffic.” A quiet summer on downtown beach For 50 years, Sun Fun Beach Service owner Drew Haugh has spent his summers renting out chairs and umbrellas from his stands on the downtown beach. In years past, business boomed, with the same families returning to the same beach summer after summer. But since the pandemic, beach crowds have waned, he said. Now, Haugh says the peak summer months are not what they used to be. “It’s amazing,” he said. “You look out there and it’s really a sparse crowd. And the numbers are certainly down in terms of the rental business.” Haugh says he is also seeing smaller crowds on the Boardwalk, which he uses to take his bike ride home each evening. In prior years, he has had to maneuver through the crowds. “This summer, I’ve had no problem,” he said. “I can get on by bike and ride from 2nd Street to 15th Street with no stops … It feels like it’s May, with the number of people.” With other destinations to choose from, and recent teen takeover events
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in town, Haugh argued Ocean City has lost visitors. “It’s kind of shifting, where Ocean City is not the No. 1 destination anymore,” he said. “There’s so many options out there, and the last couple of years, with the Fourth of July stuff and the takeovers on the Boardwalk, I’ve had people point blank tell me they weren’t taking their grandchildren out here, walking on the Boardwalk at night.” And while Haugh is hopeful that visitors will return in the summer, he said he is not supportive of the town’s efforts to make Ocean City a yearround destination. He said he wanted the city to focus on making the peak season stronger. “Let’s make it a good 10-week season and call it,” he said. Niche business sees steady sales Three blocks north, The Kite Loft owner Jay Knerr has a different story to tell. Sales at his specialty store on 5th Street have remained steady throughout the season. “Right from the get-go, March, April, May and June have all been good for us,” he told the OC TodayDispatch this week. “But August has been flat.” Anecdotally, Knerr said foot traffic along the Boardwalk has been lighter this summer, which he said could be a byproduct of the economy. He added the lack of Boardwalk trams has also stopped people from traveling farther north on the boards. “But the people who have been coming, have been shopping in our store,” he said. While The Kite Loft has kept busy, Knerr noted that other Boardwalk businesses have struggled this season, particularly with the cancellation of the Boardwalk Rock music festival in May, and the takeover events during the Fourth of July weekend. “It just wasn’t enough,” he said of the city’s efforts to deter the takeover activity. “We need to work on legislation to stop that or have better controls. But shutting off the downtown area to parking was not the answer. That hurt a lot of businesses.” Moving forward, Knerr said he hopes the city finds a way to better market the resort. If that includes a sports complex, he said the community should be involved from the beginning. “They didn’t spend enough time doing that,” he said. “That’s the important first step.”
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Assateague tops state revenue list
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By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Aug. 28, 2026) Assateague State Park led all Maryland state parks in revenue during the last fiscal year, bringing in $2.086 million, according to the Department of Natural Resources. That was nearly $472,000 more than Gunpowder Falls State Park, in Baltimore County, which ranked second in revenue. Buoyed largely by entrance fees and the largest campground in the state park system, the park has consistently ranked among Maryland’s top three revenue generators for at least 20 years, said Dana Paterra, eastern region manager for the Maryland Park Service. “As much as I'd like to say that we're a cash cow,” she said, “we spend a lot of money to provide that experience.” Between seasonal staffing, heavy visitation, and the wear and tear of salt air on equipment, Assateague is an expensive park to operate yearround. Paterra said the 855-acre facility does not generate a profit and its costs are roughly equal to or greater than revenue. Serving such a high volume of visitors requires substantial summer staffing. Assateague has 12 full-time
employees and hires another 40 to 50 seasonal workers each year, Paterra said. One of the main revenue drivers is camping. With 345 campsites, Assateague has the largest campground in the state system. Among the park’s roughly 1.8 million annual visitors, about 350,000 are overnight campers. Camping demand is particularly high during the summer; Paterra said finding an open campsite on a weekend in July would be “impossible.” Midweek vacancies become more common once school starts, while retirees help fill the campground during the shoulder season. Another driver of demand? For a beach visit, the park is relatively inexpensive. During the summer, dayuse admission is $5 per person, while some campsites with electric hookups cost less than $40 a night. “We represent a really economic way for people to experience the beach and camping,” Paterra said. “It is a steal.” Assateague’s concession operations generated roughly $191,000, according to revenue records provided by DNR – more than the total revenue reported by a number of smaller state parks. Revenue generated at Assateague
STATE PARK FISCAL 2026 REVENUE 1. Assateague – $2,086,283 2. Gunpowder Falls – $1,614,392 3. Sandy Point – $1,328,724 4. Patapsco Valley – $1,003,001 5. Deep Creek Lake – $895,756 6. Rocky Gap – $829,518 7. Cunningham Falls – $822,904 8. Greenbrier – $646,116 9. Seneca Creek – $477,148 10. Fair Hill – $475,362 does not stay with the park. It flows into a statewide general fund that helps support the Maryland Park Service as a whole, including parks that do not charge entrance fees. Paterra said campers come not just from the mid-Atlantic, but from states as far away as Wisconsin and Michigan. She has even marveled at hearing multiple languages spoken – German, French, Spanish – while walking through the campground. “These multi-generational families that are vacationing in the United States and choosing Assateague as part of their limited time here, it kind of gives me good goosebumps that we are helping families make these memorable experiences,” she said.
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Bishopville postmaster retires after 40 years By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Aug. 28, 2026) At age 19, Rob Tomko was taking tests for almost any job that might offer him a future. He considered police work and nearly joined the military. Then the post office called. “I didn’t think I’d be working there for my whole career, or most of my life,” Tomko said this week in an interview. “It just happened to work out that way.” After 40 years with the U.S. Postal Service, Tomko is retiring from his current role as postmaster of the Bishopville Post Office. His retirement becomes official Monday – which is also his 59th birthday – although Thursday was expected to be his last day behind the counter. He started his postal career as a let-
ter carrier where he grew up, around Trenton, New Jersey. He delivered mail for 18 years, served for a time as a union representative, and later moved into manageRob Tomko ment. “I was looking to better myself,” he said. “There was an opportunity to advance in the post office, so I just put my interest in that.” Tomko relocated to the Eastern Shore from New Jersey about 20 years ago. He worked in post offices in Ocean City and Salisbury before becoming Bishopville’s postmaster around 2016. The basic mission of the Postal Service has remained the same throughout his career, Tomko said, but
much of the operation has changed behind the scenes. Automation and package tracking transformed how mail moves through the system, while online shopping brought fewer letters but far more parcels. The Postal Service also collaborates with private carriers such as UPS and FedEx. The Bishopville operation is smaller than it once was. Letter carriers serving the area now work out of the Ocean Pines post office, leaving only Tomko and a clerk to staff the local office and serve its customers. Tomko compared running a post office to operating a small business: it’s been his job to oversee employees, budgeting, building maintenance, grounds upkeep, and customer service. “Really, we’re just problem solvers,”
he said. “I used to say, I work for my employees because if they have an issue, then you’ve got to figure out how to solve it.” Elsewhere in his career, Tomko worked through floods, tornadoes, snowstorms, and hurricanes. He was a union representative in Trenton when anthrax contaminated a postal facility there, requiring him to enter the building while someone monitored the air around him. “The post office, they shine pretty much when there’s disaster and bad things are going on,” Tomko said. Seeing a letter carrier during a crisis, he said, gives people “a sense of calm in a time where there’s a lot of stress.” The job also allowed him to become part of the communities he served. Tomko remembered a time when he joined the search for a missing 3-yearold after encountering the boy’s frantic mother on his route. The child was eventually found safe, hiding beneath a bed. Some problems were more unusual than others. On three separate occasions, drivers accidentally crashed into the exterior wall of the Bishopville Post Office. Nobody was hurt. Patches of differentcolored brick still show where the wall was repaired. Concrete wheel stops now sit in the parking spaces beside the wall. “That’s our excitement here,” he said. Little else has changed in rural Bishopville, where Tomko’s post office has remained a gathering place for the tight-knit community. “This is almost like a central location,” he said, “so you get the gossip, you get everything else at this post office.” Tomko leaves with no regrets. He said he could have stayed on the job for years to come, but now he is looking to the future. He and his fiancée will celebrate his retirement with a trip to Peru in September before getting married in 2027. “They bleed blue, they used to say,” Tomko said of devoted postal workers. “After 40 years, it’s hard not to.”
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sale to fund Court strikes down rezoning denial Bond capital projects, Maryland appellate judges say county commissioners failed to explain decision By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Aug. 28, 2026) A state appeals court says the Worcester County Commissioners must take a second look at a contractor’s commercial rezoning bid for a site off Route 113, finding the board failed to meaningfully analyze the evidence or explain its decision. The three-judge Appellate Court of Maryland upheld a Worcester County Circuit Court order throwing out the denial and sending the rezoning request back for further consideration. “Because the County Commissioners failed to articulate any factual basis for their denial, judicial review is impossible,” wrote Judge Brett Wilson in the court’s July 24 opinion. Wilson also wrote that the commissioners’ unsupported conclusions, failure to consider the Planning Commission’s record, and refusal to make required findings rendered their decision “arbitrary, capricious, and unlawful under Maryland law.” Pin Oak Properties in May 2023
had sought broader commercial zoning for three parcels in the Douglynne Woods subdivision, near where Route 113 meets Route 50. The property contains a contractor’s shop not ordinarily allowed under its neighborhood commercial zoning. County planning staff found evidence that the property had been mistakenly zoned during countywide zoning updates in 1992 and 2009. Although the Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval, the commissioners rejected the request in November 2023 and later issued written findings supporting the denial. The appellate opinion noted that the findings ran only two pages, with the second containing nothing but signatures. The court said the record showed no public discussion, debate, fact-finding, or analysis. During oral arguments before the appellate court on Feb. 2, Worcester County Attorney Roscoe Leslie argued that detailed findings were unnecessary because the commissioners had denied the rezoning rather than approved it. Under Maryland law, even proof of a zoning mistake does not automati-
cally entitle a property owner to rezoning. But the appellate court ruled that such discretion did not excuse the commissioners from explaining their decision. For now, the judges’ ruling amounts to a do-over. It does not require the commissioners to approve the rezoning, but directs them to reconsider the application, make the required findings, and adequately explain whatever decision they reach. Moving forward, the rezoning application will return to the commissioners for a rehearing at an upcoming meeting, according to county Planning Director Jennifer Keener. Notably, the Pin Oak ruling marks the second time in 2026 that Maryland’s appellate court has sent a rezoning case back to the Worcester County Commissioners after ruling that they mishandled the denial. In February, the court remanded the Black Water Relics case involving a proposed antique store near Snow Hill. After a new hearing and additional testimony in June, the commissioners reversed their earlier decision and approved that rezoning by a 5–2 vote.
land acquisition By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Aug. 28, 2026) The Town of Ocean City will go to the bond market later this year in an effort to fund seven capital projects. Last week, members of the Ocean City Council voted unanimously to pass the first reading of an ordinance, effectively authorizing them to issue and sell general obligation bonds not to exceed $18 million. That money will finance redevelopment and rehabilitation projects in the coming year. “This is to authorize the Mayor and Council to issue and sell general obligation municipal purpose bonds not to exceed $18 million for certain projects reviewed at the August 11 work session,” City Solicitor Heather Stansbury said. During a work session earlier this month, Finance Director Shawn Bunting presented the Ocean City Council with the list of projects to be funded through the bond sale. Those projects include water treatment plant improvements, estimated at $3.62 milSee OCEAN Page 22
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Pedestrian hit by bus, sent to local hospital By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Aug. 28, 2026) A pedestrian was transported to a local hospital this week after being hit by a bus in West Ocean City. On Monday, at approximately 3:30 a.m., first responders were dispatched to the area of Inlet Isle Lane, just west of the Route 50 bridge, for a reported pedestrian collision involving a passenger bus. The Ocean City Fire Department reports that the bus, carrying approximately 44 people, was traveling westbound when a pedestrian entered the roadway. First responders were called to the scene, and the pedestrian was transported by ground to TidalHealth
Peninsula Regional for serious but non-life-threatening injuries, the fire department shared this week. No injuries were reported among the bus’ occupants. “This incident serves as an important reminder that pedestrian safety is critical at all hours,” said Ryan Whittington, the fire department’s department and community engagement officer. “Pedestrians should use designated crosswalks, obey traffic signals, remain alert, and wear light-colored or reflective clothing when walking during nighttime and early-morning hours.” The scene was turned over to police shortly before 4 a.m. Monday. The cause of the collision remains under investigation by local law enforcement.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
First responders are pictured at the scene of a pedestrian collision in West Ocean City Monday. The victim was sent to an area hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.
Ocean City inches closer to Oct. bond sale Continued from Page 20 lion, convention center kitchen and concession renovations, estimated at $1.5 million, solid waste transfer station rehabilitation, estimated at $2.4 million, and land acquisition, estimated at $3 million. The project list also includes the second phase of a taxiway relocation, cur-
rently estimated at $530,000, the 61st Street Racquet Center redevelopment, estimated at $2.4 million, and the Baltimore Avenue redevelopment, estimated at $5 million. “That brings the new total estimated project costs at $17,255,000,” Bunting said at the time, “and current estimated cost of issuance is at $200,000, which
will bring the total potential bonded debt to just under $17.5 million.” With the council’s vote last week, the ordinance now moves to a second reading. Bunting said the seven projects brought the annual general fund debt service to roughly $920,000. That includes $300,000 a year for the water treatment plant, $120,000 for the con-
vention center and $40,000 for the taxiway relocation. “I’ll get more accurate figures once we get another debt service schedule from our municipal advisors,” he told officials earlier this month. “The bond sale is tentatively scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 29, and settlement will be two weeks after that on Nov. 12.”
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POLICE/COURTS
Assault charges A Pennsylvania man was arrested on a felony assault charge after he allegedly first assaulted a woman and then threatened another with a knife trying to intervene. On Aug. 23, around 1 in the morning, Ocean City police responded to a pizza shop near 72nd Street for an assault reported by a caller. The woman told police a man and a woman were arguing. When the woman tried to leave, the man, later identified as Shawn J. Lindeman, 37, of Schuylkill Haven, Pa., grabbed her hair and pulled. The female yelled she was calling police if he did not let go of the woman he was assaulting. Lindeman then pulled out a knife and began approaching the Good Samaritan saying he would “stab” her from a distance of about 10 feet. Lin-
deman took one more step before leaving in a vehicle. The vehicle was followed and took a turn toward the Ocean City boat ramp on 64th Street. The vehicle entered the bay before reversing out of the water and ignoring officers’ lights and sirens to stop. The vehicle did eventually stop. Lindeman was searched and a four-inch knife was located. Conflicting accounts of the assault occurred during subsequent interviews. Police were able to conclude Lindeman was under the influence of alcohol and it was confirmed by a breath specimen. Along with the felony charge of first-degree assault, Lindeman is charged with two counts of second-degree assault, reckless endangerment, possession of a concealed dangerous weapon and multiple traffic offenses, such as reckless endangerment.
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The Ocean City Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying two suspects, pictured, who allegedly stole two boogie boards from the area of 23rd Street and the Boardwalk on Tuesday around 6:15 p.m. Contact PFC J. Harrell at JHarrell@oceancitymd.gov and reference case #2026-003715. Community members can also call headquarters at 410-723-6610 or the anonymous tip line at 410-520-5136, or submit a crime tip at https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/departments/police/crime-tips/
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Winning shorts announced for OC Film Challenge Top 3 will be screened at OC Film Festival in March (Aug. 28, 2026) The Ocean City Film Festival premiered entries from the ninth annual Ocean City Film Challenge on Aug. 8 on the 94th Street tennis courts and announced the winners. The three top films will be screened at the 11th Annual Ocean City Film Festival in March 2027. Filmmakers were challenged to produce an original short film about Ocean City no longer than 10 minutes and made between July 1-31, 2026. Films must have been shot in Ocean City or be about Ocean City and include a secret line of dialogue. Twelve entries were received in the challenge. Special guest juror James Dufendach, Coordinator of the Ocean City Comic Con, selected the entries and winners. The 2026 Ocean City Film Challenge winners are: First place — The Haunting of Ocean City, directed by Holden Connor. Former small-time drug dealer Jackson Gallagher is haunted by a spooky figure from a painting while working the night shift at the Ocean Gallery. The film runs 8 minutes. Second place — Jamal from Senegal, directed by Marlon Wallace. When his cousin, a police detective, finds out he’s involved with criminal activity, Jamal has to decide to fight against or with his family. The film runs 10 minutes. Third place — Ocean City Life, Wow, What a Ride!, directed by PAC 14. Himalaya ride operator Gerry Burnes is about to retire after 40 years of Boardwalk dreams. His only wish is to do it all again with his lifelong love. Wow. What a ride. The film runs 7 minutes. Audience Choice Award — Vampires of Ocean City, directed by Torrez Wise. Two feuding factions of vampires land in Ocean City, where their longstanding peace treaty is broken as a battle ensues for possession of The Chosen Girl. The film runs 10 minutes. The 2026 Ocean City Film Challenge Premiere & Awards Night brought filmmakers, supporters, volunteers, and film lovers together to celebrate another year of local filmmaking and creativity. A special thank you goes to this year’s judge, James Dufendach for lending his time and expertise to the competition. The Ocean City Film Festival also extends a huge thank you to all of the volunteers who helped make the evening possible.
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$300K grant boosts local skate park dream Berlin’s application through Community Parks program approved by Public Works By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Aug. 28, 2026) Advocates for a skate park in Berlin received good news last week when they learned the project was awarded a $300,000 grant, pushing a long-held dream closer to reality. On Wednesday, Aug. 19, the Maryland Board of Public Works approved the Town of Berlin’s request for $300,000 through the Community Parks and Playgrounds Program (CPP), to be used for the construction of a skateboarding campus within town. The Maryland Department of Nat-
ural Resources (DNR) administers the CPP grant. CCP provides financial support to municipal governments looking to expand or construct community parks or install playground equipment. We Heart Berlin, a nonprofit that promotes healthy, sustainable activities, has spearheaded a project to build a public site for Berlin’s skateboarders. The recreational complex will be erected at Heron Park. We Heart Berlin Founder Tony Weeg said the recently awarded $300,000 will likely fund final designs, steel fabrication, demolition work, utilities, and mass grading. The skate park’s price tag is about $975,000. However, Weeg noted earlier this year that the final cost will be closer to $1.3 million when accounting for add-on features like lighting
1 6 o t y s e ars r e e Ch
o
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and shade structures. Weeg told the Bayside Gazette on Monday that Berlin has $45,000 stashed away for the skate park. Of that, $20,000 was gifted anonymously, and $14,000 was secured from the dissolution of the Gavin Knupp Foundation, started by the mother of hit-and-run victim Gavin Knupp. The foundation was disbanded after embezzlement and theft allegations surfaced involving the trust. The remaining funds were dispersed to local charities. With the CPP award, the skate park’s reserve has now soared to $345,000. The municipality is still waiting to hear back on other grant opportunities it applied for, including a $487,500 grant from DNR’s Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) and a $100,000 grant from the Worcester County Health Department Transformation Collaborative. A skate park for Berlin has been in the works for several years and has been steadily progressing.
In 2022, the Los Angeles-based skateboard park design-and-build company Spohn Ranch was hired to create conceptual plans. According to those drawings, the skateboard facility will likely reach 14,000 to 16,000 square feet and be situated adjacent to the space planned for the town’s new public works building at Heron Park. The site will include classic skate park elements, including a bowl, quarter pipes, a pump track, amphitheater steps, a hipped bank, a grind ledge, an A-frame bank, a slappy curb, and a landscape area. In April of 2025, Berlin Public Works Director Jimmy Charles, joined by We Heart Berlin representatives, conducted a walk-through of the future park’s site and noted the structure’s dimensions. Spohn Ranch is expected to complete construction of the skate park when the time comes. The company will add the Berlin project to its official schedule as soon as the town secures all the necessary funding.
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AUGUST 28, 2026
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Annual Jeep Fest returns to resort with new events (Aug. 28, 2026) Jeeps of all shapes, sizes, and colors will be descending upon the Ocean City beaches for the 12th Annual Ocean City Jeep Fest weekend. Beginning yesterday and running through Sunday, the enthusiasts come to enjoy the early morning beach crawls, the exhilaration of the KICKER Sand Course and much more. This year, the sand course is built by Deppe Excavation, professional course-designer Jeff Pruitt and his team at Delmarva Jeep Events, and BRad Productions. What makes this show great is the gathering of Jeeps at the ultimate location, the Roland E. Powell Convention Center. Outside, you will find the largest vendor village that OC Jeep Fest has ever had. Everything from sound systems, show special pricing and onsite installations by KICKER and Audio Works, to wheel and tire sales and installations by BWT Off-Road, bringing great brands like Fury Tire, KG1 Forged, and of course our official event wheel and rim, Vision Wheel. You can pick your own wheel and tires to be balanced and installed right at the event. No one does a Jeep event quite like Ocean City. This is a Jeep show and 4x4 expo combined. Even if you don’t have a Jeep, wristbands are available for access to the vendor zone, and there will be something for everyone with factory reps and manufacturers ready to outfit your vehicle no matter the make and model. The inside of the Roland E. Powell Convention Center is filled with the rarest and most amazing Jeeps you will ever see. From old school to new school, it will show you what can be done to take your Jeep to the next level. From TJ’s, WJ’s Jeepster’s, XJ’s, every “J”. Even Corey Jarriel’s $100,000 oneoff is coming up from Florida, known as the Twin-Turbo Black Widow Jeep. A 9-year labor of love. The heritage and history of the Jeep is not just outside but is showcased inside the Convention Center. For the kids, we have new this year an RC mini-Jeep course inside. We have a judged “Show Off” on Friday with Top 10 and Specialty awards. Saturday is our big day awards for categories, Best in Shows, specialties. This is where the Jeeps compete for that top dog status. On display will be the newest models of Jeeps presented by i.g. Burton Berlin Jeep. They will be offering “drive & rides” along the beautiful bay as well as smashed-down prices that will have you saying, “nobody beats a Burton deal.” We have special after-event parties for the Jeep community, exchanging ducks, meeting new friends and seeing old friends. See MORNING Page 31
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Familly Fa yO Owned ffo or Over 25 Y Ye ea ar rs s!
EST EMADE OOD
PHOTO COURTESY OF OC JEEP FEST
A participant makes it way through the beach obstacle course during last year’s OC Jeep Fest event, which began Thursday and continues through the weekend.
Morning beach crawls on tap Continued from Page 29 Quake LED is presenting the “Light Up the Night Sky” LED Light Show, Saturday night on the east side of the Convention Center where they will be doing demos of their latest (and brightest) products. You can sign up to be a part of the Ocean City Jeep Club onsite at the event, as they will have a booth on display outside. We will have AK Whatley (@chaos_ak) and “Jeep Daisy” April Russell (@jeepdaisy) as our resident Jeep & off-road celebrities with autograph signings at the JED Co booth (our official Jeep apparel vendor).
You can register your Jeep to drive on the beach at www.ocjeepfest.com. This is what Jeep are made to do. Check out Joe’s Jeep Jungle, Distinction Applied, Quake LED, Gear’s Garage, new to the lineup is Rough Country (official suspension company), and our official “flex” zone with Metal Cloak and their CTI suspension articulator that will test your suspension! The team at Live Wire Media & Events appreciates the support of the city and everyone we work closely with to ensure Ocean City is the destination for the Ultimate Jeep Vacation. Daily hours for the event are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through Sunday.
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AUGUST 28, 2026
Berlin tweaks, tables outdoor burn proposal By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Aug. 28, 2026) Berlin’s outdoor burning policy is going back to the drawing board after residents shared concerns that the proposed code revisions don’t include an exception for large properties that need an efficient way to reduce yard and storm debris. The Town of Berlin is looking to tighten its outdoor burning ordinance. At Monday night’s Town Council meeting, the group held a public hearing and overhauled the proposed document before addressing citizen comments. The revisions suggested this week polished the code’s language to clarify that open burning is not allowed in Berlin. However, after those edits, residents asked that a pathway be carved out for large-acreage parcels that rely on open burning to clear immense accumula-
tions of yard debris or natural storm wreckage. After hearing those worries, the council agreed to put the outdoor fire policy back on the agenda next month for a first reading, incorporating the governing team’s amendments made Monday night and a potential provision for vast tracts of land. Ryan Hardesty, the town’s planning director, said at the Aug. 10 council meeting that the outdoor burning review process began several months ago after questions arose as to whether fire pits were permitted within municipal limits. At that meeting, a broader discussion revealed that the council supported completely outlawing open burning, otherwise known as the burning of yard waste, yard debris, land-clearing debris, and household trash. This move would eliminate the code’s existing exceptions that allow property owners to secure
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permits for these kinds of activities. However, per this week’s discussion, Berlin could add open burning back into its updated fire ordinance with strict parameters. The issue stems from resident Ed Hammond, who said he relies on about one open burn a year to maintain his 30-acre property. “I may be in a relatively unique situation in town where I have an agricultural property…I have 30 acres, and it generates a lot of debris and I need to get rid of it,” he said. Hammond noted that his family has conducted open burns for years and receives official approval from Worcester County to do so. He added that while he could theoretically push his yard waste back into the woods and forgo any fires, that would open the area to the spread of invasive species. “Maybe 40 or 50 years ago, before we had the invasive species that we have now, it was easier to push materials in the woods and forget about it,” he said. “I can still cut up and let material lie on the forest floor if it’s in a well-shaded area, but most areas are not shaded… I can’t just push material back into the woods and hope it goes away because it becomes a scaffold for invasive species to grow on and it becomes a large problem for the land because the wood doesn't break down fast enough before the wisteria, …
gets on it and starts going.” Councilman Jack Orris read a statement sent to him by resident Tony Weeg who suggested how open burning exceptions may be handled. Open burn permits could be made for properties over a certain size, capped at four parcels a year, Weeg said. He added that to guarantee safety, Berlin Fire Company staff could be onsite during the burn. “[The proposed ordinance] treats residents with a two-foot brush pile the same as a property owner sitting on acres of wooded land who loses his trees every storm season,” Orris said, reciting Weeg’s statement. “…The people using the exception are exactly those we should permit. A blanket ban punishes them to solve a problem they aren’t actually causing.” While Monday’s discussion largely centered on open burning, the council also agreed to axe language in the code that would limit recreational bonfires to 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Bonfires would be allowed anytime. Because the council heavily modified the proposed ordinance Monday night, the group agreed to table the document. Town attorney David Gaskill will revise the code with the council’s amendments and include a summary of how a provision may be incorporated to address large parcels.
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State gives Berlin more funding By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Aug. 28, 2026) The Berlin Town Council approved additional state funding Monday to help cover the hefty price tag of the town’s lead service line replacement project, which officials said has become more expensive than originally expected. The council voted unanimously to accept a $2,286,773 funding package from the Maryland Department of the Environment through the Maryland Water Infrastructure Financing Administration for Phase 1A of the project. The approval comes after the town returned to the state seeking additional assistance as project costs increased. “This is not a project that Berlin just undertook,” Berlin Town Administrator Mary Bohlen said. “This is mandated for every community to do.” The lead service line replacement project began in 2023 after the state required municipalities to address water service lines that contain lead. At the start of the initiative, the town applied for funding based on early estimates, but the anticipated cost grew as the project moved forward. Nicholas Bradley, an engineer with Davis, Bowen & Friedel, the town’s engineering consultant, told the council earlier this year that additional expenses required by the state, including a 3% ad-
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ministrative fee and a 5% contingency, contributed to the gap between available funding and the project’s actual cost. After the town completed the project’s design and put the work out to bid, it received one response from Teal Construction Inc. that exceeded the amount of funding previously secured. The municipality subsequently requested additional funding from the state, resulting in the revised offer approved Monday. Berlin Finance Director Natalie Saleh told the council the state has offered an additional $309,060 in reprogrammed fiscal year 2024 funding to support the water line replacement project. The total funding package offered for Phase 1A is $2,286,773. The project’s estimated expenses total $2,286,852, leaving the town with a $79 shortfall that will be covered with cash from the town’s water fund. Of the total package, $1,007,823, or about 44%, is listed as loan funding. Another $1,278,950, or about 56%, is listed as a loan with principal forgiveness. Councilman Jack Orris asked whether the town would ultimately be required to repay only the 44% portion. Saleh clarified that the principal forgiveness does not occur immediately. “It’s not fully forgiven,” Saleh said. “It will be forgiven after several years of payment on the interest.”
She added that the exact structure of the financing, including the interest rate, will be determined after the town approves the funding and moves forward with closing. The loan term can extend up to 30 years, according to the staff report. Saleh said the $1,007,823 in standard loan funding will be the town’s responsibility, while the remaining portion is subject to the principal forgiveness provisions. The town also will have costs associated with the settlement and other financing requirements. The additional state funding follows an earlier council decision to move forward with the project despite a substantial funding gap. In April, the council approved awarding the project’s approximately $1.94 million base bid to Teal Construction, contingent on the town securing additional financial support. At the time, the town faced a funding shortfall of roughly $463,000 and transferred $500,000 from another capital improvement project to help address the gap. By May, officials reported that the shortfall had increased to $618,119 after additional project costs were incorporated. The motion to accept the additional funding passed unanimously, with Dean Burrell absent.
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AUGUST 28, 2026
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AUGUST 28, 2026
OC seafood fest scheduled for this Saturday at NSP (Aug. 28, 2026) Get ready to indulge in some of Maryland's finest seafood at the 2nd Annual Ocean City Seafood Festival, taking place at Northside Park on Saturday, Aug. 29, from 1 to 8 p.m. This family-friendly event will feature local eateries and food trucks, live music, cooking demonstrations, wine, beer and spirits tastings, artisan vendors, a VIP tent, a kids' zone and more. With tickets starting at just $18 and children ages 16 and under admitted free, the Ocean City Seafood Festival offers something for the whole family. Attendees can enjoy an exciting array of seafood from local and regional favorites, including Hooper's Crab House, Jimmy's Famous Seafood, Coastal Salt, Flamingo Coast, Captain's Galley Crab Cake Shack, Papi's Tacos, The Sterling Tavern, Fallen Pine Oyster Company, Baywater Seafood, Boxhill Crab Cakes, Ocean City Taphouse Bar and Grille, Everest Kitchen and Seaside Sweets. Offerings will showcase a variety of coastal favorites, from steamed crabs and grilled oysters to fish tacos and more. Festival-goers can also enjoy a variety of wines, craft beers and spirits from local and national producers, providing the perfect pairings to complement the festival's seafood offerings. Live music throughout the day will feature performances by Tumblehome Band, Sons of Pirates and Sketchbook. Guests will also have the chance to watch local chefs in action during live cooking demonstrations, featuring expert tips for preparing and cooking seafood. Families can visit the kids' zone for outdoor toys, games and activities. “The inaugural Ocean City Seafood Festival was a huge success, and we cannot wait to return for the second annual event,” said Beth Laverick, owner of B Scene Events & Promotions. “With more than 10 years of producing successful festivals in Maryland, B Scene Events & Promotions is proud to bring this event back to Ocean City and unite the community around great food, music and coastal culture.” Attendees can take advantage of special promotional rates from participating hotel sponsors, making it easy to turn a day at the festival into a full weekend in Ocean City. The festival is also proud to partner with the Oyster Recovery Partnership as its nonprofit partner. “The Ocean City Seafood Festival is a great example of how our destination continues to give visitors new reasons to experience Ocean City beyond the traditional summer season,” said Tom Perlozzo, Director of Tourism and Business Development for the Town of Ocean City. “The end of August is one of the best times to be here, and an event that combines great food, live entertainment and our coastal culture gives visitors another reason to extend their summer and make a weekend out of it.” To purchase tickets, please visit ocmdseafoodfest.com.
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OC Today-Dispatch
AUGUST 28, 2026
Ocean City celebrates end of season with event lineup
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
A group of hot air balloons, pictured at another destination, will be set up along the beach as part of Ocean City’s summer send-off celebration.
(Aug. 28, 2026) Ocean City is inviting travelers to celebrate one last beach getaway before summer ends during the second annual Summer Send Off. The free event, which began Aug. 27 and continues through Sunday, will transform Ocean City’s downtown area including the award-winning beach and boardwalk replete with hot air balloons, giant kites, and nightly laser shows, while more than 25 participating hotels and vendors offer exclusive discounts throughout the weekend. Depending on the weather conditions, the night events take place primarily on the beach between Dorchester Street and 3rd Street, beginning at 4 p.m., where visitors can experience up to eight illuminated hot air balloons in calm skies or giant show kites filling the skyline above the beach, boardwalk and shoreline when winds are stronger. Each evening will conclude with an hour-long laser show at 8:30 p.m., displaying light, music, and color against the Atlantic backdrop. The celebration extends beyond the beachfront festivities offering a lineup of Ocean City’s free signature events throughout the weekend. A Sunset Park Concert kicked off the celebration on Thursday, with Tranzfusion playing from 7-9 p.m. and fireworks over the Isle of Wight Bay. To end
the weekend on a high note, families can enjoy Sundaes In The Park on Sunday, Aug. 30 at Northside Park. This event features live performances by Fast Times at Shermer High: Back to the ‘80s, children’s activities, ice cream, as well as a firework finale over Assawoman Bay. In addition to the festivities, visitors can take advantage of exclusive Summer Send Off savings throughout Ocean City. More than 25 participating hotels are offering lodging discounts ranging from 15% to 30% off select stays, while local attractions and activity providers are featuring special offers on experiences including watersports, amusement rides, mini golf, museums, cruises and more. Visitors can explore participating properties and available offers at ococean.com/summersendoff. “We still have so much summer left in Ocean City, but with so many families heading back to school, we wanted to provide an event that allowed families to send summer off in style,” said Tom Perlozzo, director of tourism and business development for Ocean City Tourism. “From glowing hot air balloons and giant kites to live entertainment, fireworks and special hotel offers, we’re making it easier than ever for families to enjoy one last unforgettable summer getaway by the beach.”
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OC Today-Dispatch
Diakonia’s capital campaign is going public (Aug. 28, 2026) After more than a decade of vision, planning, and perseverance, Diakonia is ready to celebrate a milestone years in the making: the Supportive Living Campus Capital Campaign is officially going public. For months, Diakonia has been working quietly behind the scenes during the early phase of the campaign, meeting with donors, businesses, foundations, community partners, and government leaders while pursuing critical grant funding. That work has built tremendous momentum, with the organization already nearing the halfway point toward
its $7.5 million Phase 1 fundraising goal. Now, Diakonia is ready to step out of the quiet phase and celebrate that progress with the entire community during Hope, Reimagined: An Evening to Shape Tomorrow, Together. The event will be held Friday, November 6, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Seacrets Morley Hall and will officially kick off the public phase of the Supportive Living Campus Capital Campaign. “This is a moment we have been working toward for more than a decade,” said Ken Argot, Executive Director of Diakonia. “So many people have believed in
this vision and helped us reach this point before the campaign ever went public. Now we finally get to celebrate that progress together and invite our entire community to help us carry it forward.” Located on 4.4 acres along Route 611 in West Ocean City, the Supportive Living Campus represents an approximately $15 million investment in Diakonia’s future and its ability to serve individuals, families, and Veterans across Maryland’s Lower Eastern Shore. Phase 1 has a $7.5 million fundraising goal and will include a significantly expanded Food Pantry and distribution
hub, larger Thrift Store and Donation Center, dedicated Veteran Support and Outreach Services Building, consolidated administrative offices, and critical site infrastructure needed to support the campus and prepare for its future growth. Phase 2 is planned to bring 42 transitional and supportive housing units to the campus, including 14 units dedicated to Veteran families. Hope, Reimagined will bring supporters and the community together to celebrate how far the campaign has already come while helping shape what See DIAKONIA Page 43
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17 SUNDIAL CIRCLE OCEAN PINES
AUGUST 28, 2026
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OC Today-Dispatch
COMMUNITY BRIEFS
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Joe and Shirley Marx
Milestone anniversary Shirley and Joe Marx will be married 70 years in September. They have resided in North Ocean City since the 80’s. The couple has a daughter and son and three grandchildren. Their son, Joe Jr. is the owner of Continental Cycles at 72nd Street and also Ocean Pines.
Smoke testing planned Worcester County Public Works Water and Wastewater (WWW) Division will conduct smoke testing of the sanitary sewer system from September 8-11, 2026 in West Ocean City and the surrounding areas, including MD Rt. 707, Sunset Avenue, Swordfish Drive, and Golf Course, Harbor, and Townsend roads. This study will involve opening and entering manholes in the streets and public utility easements to locate breaks and defects in the sewer system. The smoke will also reveal where storm and other surface water enters the sewer system. A special, non-toxic smoke will be used in these tests. It leaves no residuals or stains and has no effect on plants or animals. The smoke is visible and has a distinctive, but not unpleasant, odor that should last only a few minutes in adequately ventilated areas. Because the plumbing leading to appliances in homes and buildings are connected to the sanitary sewer system, some smoke may enter these facilities in these types of instances: · Vents connected to a building's sewer pipes are inadequate, defective, or improperly installed · Traps under sinks, tubs, basins, showers, and other drains are dry, defective, improperly installed, or missing · Pipes, connections, and seals of the wastewater drain system in and under buildings are damaged, defective, have plugs missing, or are improperly installed The smoke test can reveal the presence, if any, of sewer gas, which can be dangerous and a health risk to occupants. If smoke enters your home or business, please contact a member of the smoke testing crew working in your area or call WWW at 410-641-5251, Monday – Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Upcoming DES meetings Worcester County Department of Emergency Services (DES) officials
are encouraging residents to participate in two upcoming public meetings, as part of the County’s ongoing effort to update its Hazard Mitigation Plan, and are asking residents to take an active role in the process. Community participation is essential to ensure the plan reflects the concerns, experiences, and priorities of the people who live and work in Worcester County. DES hosted two public meetings in August and will host two additional meetings in September: · Sept. 2 at the Snow Hill Volunteer Fire Company at 6 p.m. · Sept. 3 at the Berlin Branch Library at 6 p.m. The updated Hazard Mitigation Plan will identify potential hazards facing Worcester County, outline strategies to reduce risks, and help protect important community assets and critical infrastructure. “Preparing for hazards starts with listening to residents,” Assistant Chief of Emergency Management Katy Vieira said. “You know your neighborhoods best. When you share your experiences, you help us understand real risks and identify the strategies that will make Worcester County safer and stronger.” For more information on the Hazard Mitigation Plan process and how you can participate, please contact Vieira at 410-632-3080, ext. 1916.
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$399,000
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©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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OC Today-Dispatch
AUGUST 28, 2026
AUGUST 28, 2026
Classic car show set for Saturday (Aug. 28, 2026) The Worcester County Chamber of Commerce in Ocean Pines announces its 12th Annual Classic Car, Truck & Jeep Show on Saturday, Aug. 29 at the racetrack at Ocean Downs Casino. This free, family-friendly event will feature classic cars, trucks and Jeeps, local business and nonprofit vendors, food and beverages for purchase, and DJ Rupe, playing legendary music from throughout the decades. Tara Calabrese – Images by Stara will provide onsite photography and drone footage. The Promenade Sponsor is Bryant Sterling with i.g. Burton Auto Group, and the Entertainment Sponsor is Premier Driving School. The car show runs approximately 9 a.m. to noon., with trophies awarded at 12:30 p.m. Categories include Classic, Antique, Hot Rod, Modern (2000s+), Custom (Non-Stock), Eurasian, Corvette, Jeep Stock, Jeep Custom, Truck/SUV, Best of Show, People’s Choice, and Honorable Mentions. Pre-registration is $25 and is available online through Thursday, August 27 at www.WorcesterCountyChamber.org. Onsite registration begins at 8 a.m. Saturday, and all vehicles must be registered by 9 a.m. Local businesses and nonprofits are invited to participate as vendors along the patio. Vendor opportunities are available, and booth space is free for nonprofits. For car show registration or vendor information, call the Chamber at 410-641-5306.
Diakonia to host benefit this Nov. Continued from Page 40 comes next. The evening will feature live music by Cecilia’s Fall, DJ C-DUB, heavy appetizers, drinks, a live auction, 50/50 Boards, photo booth, desserts, and an opportunity for guests to experience the vision for the Supportive Living Campus. Tickets are $100 per person, with limited sponsor tables available. Tickets and full event details are available at www.diakoniaoc.org. Diakonia is also inviting individuals, businesses, foundations, and community partners interested in being part of this tremendous growth opportunity to learn more about the Supportive Living Campus Capital Campaign. If you or someone you know may be interested in making a contribution, becoming a campaign partner, or learning more about opportunities to support the project, Diakonia would welcome the opportunity to personally connect. Those unable to attend Hope, Reimagined but who would still like to help move the Supportive Living Campus forward can make a contribution at www.diakoniaoc.org.
PAGE 43
OC Today-Dispatch
Kathryn Landon "Katie" Sales Associate, Licensed in MD & DE
302-236-5738 katie.landon@cbmove.com www.katielandon.com WATERFRONT 4 BR, 2.5 BA HOME with 2-CAR GARAGE
12207 Coastal Hwy • Ste D • Ocean City, 21842 Office: 410-524-1203 • M: 302-236-5738
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E T PRICVEMEN O R IMP
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Stunning 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath end-unit townhome is move-in ready & designed for comfort & versatility. 2 spacious primary bedrooms—one on the 1st floor & another on the 2nd —each with its own private en-suite bath, making it ideal for multigenerational living or hosting guests. Additional living space in the bright 3-season room. Unwind outdoors on the custom paver patio with a sitting area, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Desirable end-unit location offers added privacy & natural light throughout. This sought-after community is just minutes from beaches, shopping, dining & more! The perfect balance of coastal $1,300,000 living & everyday convenience.
FAIRFIELD at LONGNECK MILLSBORO, DE 19966 OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY 10:30AM-12:30PM
35596 N GLOUCESTER CIRCLE 3 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath Townhome with Hardwood Floors $
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12418 COASTAL MARSH DRIVE BAYSIDE BERLIN
Stunning move-in ready home blends comfort, convenience & resort-style, low-maintenance living. A must-see as your full-time residence or vacation getaway! 1st-floor reading room & spacious 3rd-floor game room. Primary suite & ensuite BA luxurious soaking tub. 2nd & 3rd BRs’ private balconies overlook pond. Sold furnished + fully stocked kitchen. Bonus - Level 2 EV charger in detached 2-car garage. Easy access to community pool & clubhouse. Residents’ amenities include kayak launch & crabbing pier. HOA fees for access to all community amenities, lawn maintenance & snow removal. Own a beautiful home in 1 of MD’s premier coastal $657,500 communities.
BEAUTIFUL 3 BR, 2.5 BA TOWNHOME OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 10:30AM-12:30PM
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953 YACHT CLUB DRIVE MARINA VILLAGE OCEAN PINES
Charming townhome in desirable community. Perfect for year-round living or a coastal getaway. 1-car garage, durable hard-surface flooring on stairs, hallway & guest BR & a bright sunroom. Freshly updated rear deck overlooks peaceful wooded backdrop. Spacious primary suite has ensuite BA, unique double-sided fireplace & private deck. Main level family room with fireplace, separate dining area & eat-in kitchen. Walk to Ocean Pines Yacht Club, Mumford's Landing Pool & Pines Point Provisions some of the most popular amenities at your doorstep. Don't miss the opportunity to own this wonderful townhome that perfectly blends convenience, comfort & coastal charm. $
479,900
Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are independent contractor sales associates and are not employees of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. © 2026 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker is a registered service mark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLS. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Opportunity. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC.
PAGE 44
Who’s Where When BLU CRABHOUSE / DISTRICT 24 410-289-3322 24th Street Bayside Fri., Aug. 28: Fil Rhythm Sat., Aug. 29: Joe Esham Sun., Aug. 30: Mercury Agenda BURLEY OAK BREWING COMPANY 443-513-4647 10016 Old Ocean City Blvd., Berlin Sat., Aug. 29: Butte & Friends (Ticket Event)
OC Today-Dispatch
Best Beats On The Beach
BUXY’S SALTY DOG & DRY DOCK 28 410-289-BUXY 28th Street Coastal Hwy. Sat., Aug. 29: Boogiemen Sundays: Locals Night w/ DJ DeoGee Wednesdays: Karaoke w/ DJ Nick Hundley CAPTAIN’S TABLE 410-289-7192 15th & Boardwalk In The Courtyard Marriott Fridays & Saturdays: Phil Perdue
COINS PUB 410-289-3100 28th Street Plaza On Coastal Hwy. Fri, Aug. 28: The Mixx Sat., Aug. 29: Jim Long & Rockoholics Sundays: DJ Wax Tues., Sept. 1: Jamin’ Brothers
BRYAN CLARK Fager’s Island: Tues., Sept. 1
KEVIN POOLE Crabcake Factory Bayside: Sun., Aug. 30 Coconuts Beach Bar: Thurs., Sept. 3
DJ BIGLER Harborside: Saturdays
KITTYBACK Fager’s Island: Friday & Saturday, August 28 & 29
PHIL PERDUE Captain’s Table: Fridays & Saturdays
KARAOKE W/ DJ NICK HUNDLEY Caribbean Pool Bar: Fri., August 28 Buxy’s: Wednesdays
CARIBBEAN POOL BAR 410-289-6181 In The Plim Plaza Hotel 109 N. Atlantic Ave. Fri., Aug. 28: Nick Hundley & Rockoholics Sat., Aug. 29: Mercury Agenda & Rogue Citizens Sun., Aug. 30: Groovejoose & TBA Mon., Aug. 31: DJ Bobby O & TBA COCONUTS BEACH BAR 410-289-6846 Oceanfront At Castle In The Sand Hotel 37th & 38th Streets Fri., Aug. 28: Darin Engh & Beg 2 Differ Sat., Aug. 29: Moonstone & Chris Diller Band Sun., Aug. 30: Honey Du & Clockwork Band Mon., Aug. 31: Nate Clendenen & Fil Rhythm Tues., Sept. 1: Jamn’ Brothers & DJ Wax Wed., Sept. 2: Amber Hopkins & Chris Diller Duo Thurs., Sept. 3: Kevin Poole Solo & Full Circle
AUGUST 28, 2026
UNCLE WARD Jolly Jellyfish Beach Club: Tues., Sept. 1 & Thurs., Sept. 3
DJ BILLY T Harborside: Fridays & Wednesdays
THE REGAN YEARS Purple Moose: Friday, August 28
JIM LONG Coins Pub: Saturdays
BEATS BY DEOGEE Pickles Pub: Fridays & Sat., Aug. 29 Buxy’s Salty Dog: Sundays
PARTY TILL DAWN Seacrets: Friday, August 28
NATE CLENDENEN Coconuts: Mon., Aug. 31
CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE 302-988-5000 37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54, Selbyville, DE Fri., Aug. 28: Loud Moon Sun., Aug. 30: Kevin Poole Tues., Sept. 1: C-Miller Wed., Sept. 2: True Country FAGER’S ISLAND 410-524-5500 60th St., In The Bay Fri., Aug. 28: No Go Romeo, DJ Accelerate & Kittyback Sat., Aug. 29: Other Brother Darryl, DJ Vybe & Kittyback
CHARLIE TRAVERS Purple Moose: Sat., Aug. 29
THE MIXX Coins Pub: Friday, August 28
DJ WAX Coins Pub: Sun., Aug. 30 Fager’s Island: Mon., Aug. 31 Pickles Pub: Tuesdays Fish Tales: Wednesdays
AUGUST 28, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 45
Who’s Where When Sun., Aug. 30: The Woo Hoo & DJ Groove Mon., Aug. 31: Deck Party - DJ Wax, On The Edge & Jexxa Tues., Sept. 1: Bryan Clark Saltwater Sweat Line Dancing Thursdays: DJ Groove
BOOGIEMEN Buxy’s Dry Dock: Friday, August 28 The Wedge: Tuesday, September 1
ROGUE CITIZENS Caribbean Pool Bar: Saturday, August 29
FISH TALES 410-289-0990 22nd Street & The Bay Fri., Aug. 28: Full Circle Duo Sat., Aug. 29: Jesse & AJ Sun., Aug. 30: Colossal Fossil Sauce Wednesdays: DJ Wax HARBORSIDE 410-213-1846 South Harbor Rd., West End O.C. Fridays: DJ Billy T Sat., Aug. 29: Cecilia’s Fall & DJ Bigler Sundays: Pickin’ Party & Wyane Blake Wednesdays: DJ Billy T Thursdays: Dust N Bones
ON THE EDGE Jolly Jellyfish: Sunday, August 30 Fager’s Island: Deck Party ~ Monday, August 31
FULL CIRCLE Fish Tales: Friday, August 28 (Duo) Seacrets: Wednesday, September 2 (Duo) Coconuts Beach Bar: Thursday, September 3
PICKIN’ PARTY Harborside: Saturday, August 29
BLACK HOLE SONS Seacrets: Friday & Saturday, August 28 & 29
JOLLY JELLYFISH BEACH CLUB 443-664-6147 98th Street Coastal Hwy., Plaza Condominium Fri., Aug. 28: Cup Of Joe Sat., Aug. 29: Clockwork Band Sun., Aug. 30: On The Edge Mon., Aug. 31: First Class Tues., Sept. 1: Uncle Ward Wed., Sept. 2: Joe Mama & Friends Thurs., Sept. 3: Uncle Ward PICKLES PUB 410-289-4891 8th Street & Philadelphia Ave. Fri., Aug. 28: Beats By DeoGee Sat., Aug. 29: Beats By DeoGee Mon., Aug. 30: 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. 28: The Regan Years & DJ Mary Jane Sat., Aug. 29: Charlie Travers (2pm) & It’s All Good & DJ Papi Sun., Aug. 30: Gavin Hades (2pm) & DJ Noah Selt Mondays & Thursdays: DJ Papi Tuesdays: DJ Catdaddy Wednesdays: DJ Rellew
CECILIA’S FALL Harborside: Saturday, August 29
MERCURY AGENDA Caribbean Pool Bar: Saturday, August 29
IT’S ALL GOOD Purple Moose: Saturday, August 29
JAMIN’ BROTHERS Coconuts Beach Bar: Tuesday, September 1 (Noon) Coins Pub: Tuesday, September 1 (8pm)
SEACRETS 410-524-4900 49th Street & Coastal Hwy. Fri., Aug. 28: DJ E-State, DJ E-State, Party Till Dawn, Swam Of Bees & Black Hole Sons Sat., Aug. 29: DJ Crome, DJ Davie, DJ Connair, DJ E-State, Jell & The Kids, Black Hole Sons & No Filter Sun, Aug. 30: DJ Davie Mon., Aug. 31: DJ E-State Tues., Sept. 1: DJ Davie Wed., Sept. 2: DJ Davie Thurs, Sept. 3: Collie Buddz (Ticket Event) & DJ Waxx THE WEDGE 410-289-5121 806 S. Atlantic Ave. Tues., Sept. 1: Boogiemen
OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 46
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 $$ | Full bar Dine on the island with an award-winning bayfront restaurant featuring American & Re-
AUGUST 28, 2026
gional dining with a global influence and popular destination featuring impeccably prepared American and Pacific Rim cuisine. Also enjoy our outdoor decks and bar with live entertainment and 32 wines by the glass. A place where the joy of food & the presence of the table are of utmost importance. Dine on fresh seafood and our famous Prime Rib. Enjoy beautiful sunsets over the water. Open 11 a.m. daily. Fine dine at 4:30 p.m. ■ HOOKED 8003 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410723-4665, hookedoc.com $$ | 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 28, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
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Resort Real Estate, Inc. Resort Rentals, LLC
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SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Fund President Jim Massey and Trustee Ralph Greene are pictured at the check presentation ceremony with, from left, Lodge Trustee Susan Caldwell, Treasurer Jim Flaig, Grand Exalted Ruler Vernon Betkey, and Caroline Kuhn, Charity Committee Chair.
Lot # 188 Enjoy a Bay View in this Spacious Turn Key 2 Bedroom. Recently Replaced AC. Drywall Interior, Cathedral Ceiling & Open Concept Living Area. Large Master Bedroom, Gas Stove, Dishwasher, Full Size Washer/Dryer, Courtyard & Shed.
Ocean City Elks Lodge gives donation to Shriner charity (Aug. 28, 2026) Since the 1950s when it first started, the Children’s Aid Fund of Laurel has paid more than $2 million to help parents with the costs associated with treatment their children receive at the Shriners Hospital in Philadelphia and the Shriners Hospital Burn Center in Boston. That’s the estimate of the two Children’s Aid Fund officials who visited Ocean City Elks Lodge # 2645 as it continues to help the Shriner charity with a donation of $2,000. The money will help support the fund’s mission of paying for every expense, from food to transportation to hotel stays, for children being treated in the two hospitals. “They don’t pay for anything. If they have to leave in the morning, we buy them breakfast,” said Fund Trustee Ralph Greene of Whitehaven, Maryland. “We also donate money we raise to the hospitals on top of paying for all the patients’ back-and-forth travel to the hospitals,” said Fund President Laurel resident James Massey. The two hospitals provide medical treatment to families in the area who need of orthopedic, burn treatment, or related specialized medical care. “We are honored to support The Children’s Aid Fund and the important work being done to help children receive the care they need,” said Lodge Exalted Ruler Vernon Betkey. “As Elks, we believe deeply in serving our community, and this donation reflects our commitment to standing with local families during challenging times.” While the organization is located in Somerset County, its services are available to families throughout the state by contacting Fund President Jim Massey at 302-875-2333 for a referral to the appropriate hospital contact, with all costs, including transportation, paid by the Shriners. “Through this donation, the Ocean
City Elks Lodge hopes to bring comfort, support, and practical help to local families facing difficult medical circumstances,” Betkey said. “The lodge through its charitable contribution program remains committed to strengthening the community through compassion, service, and care for children in need,” he said.
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OC Today-Dispatch
AUGUST 28, 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 28, 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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OC Today-Dispatch
AUGUST 28, 2026
Berlin Chili Pepper Festival
The Berlin Chamber of Commerce hosted the second annual Chili Pepper Festival in downtown Berlin last Saturday. The event featured live music by the Hot Sauce Band, a variety of vendors, a pepper-eating contest, a wing contest and much more. Pictured are scenes from the day’s event. PHOTOS COURTESY OF GARRETT NEVILLE/ GOOD BOY MFG.
AUGUST 28, 2026
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Senator presents check for beach pumping Van Hollen visited OC this month, highlighting $20M for beach replenishment (Aug. 28, 2026) On August 14, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (DMd.) visited Ocean City’s beachfront to highlight the $20 million federal investment he, along with Senator Angela Alsobrooks, secured in Congress to replenish the beach and protect the shoreline. This project, led by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), will widen the beach and create a buffer against storms and erosion, protecting homes, businesses, and public infrastructure. “Ocean City’s beach is a destination for Marylanders and out-of-state visitors alike, making it an important economic driver for the region. It’s critical that we not only protect the beach from erosion, but that we also restore the shoreline to protect local communities from flooding and extreme weather. Businesses and livelihoods that depend on Ocean City’s beach must continue to thrive, and that’s why we worked to secure $20 million in federal funding for Ocean City’s beach replenishment. With these federal funds, we will be able to restore and expand the shoreline, helping to ensure that Ocean City can continue to be a destination point and the eco-
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Senator Chris Van Hollen, Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan and members of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers are pictured at a ceremonial check presentation earlier this month.
nomic driver that it is,” said Van Hollen, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. “We need to do all we can to protect Maryland communities, homes, and businesses from storms and erosion. That’s why I am proud to partner with Senator Van Hollen in investing $20 million of federal funding to replenish Ocean City’s shoreline and beaches. Replenishing this shoreline will create
a critical buffer to better protect the homes and businesses of Ocean City,” said Alsobrooks. “More than just a location where summer memories are made, the beaches of Ocean City are also a critical line of defense for the lives and livelihood of the community. By blending vital engineering with strong federal, state, and local partnerships, this project safeguards our commu-
nity and ensures Ocean City remains strong, resilient, and safe for generations to come,” said Colonel Francis B. Pera, Baltimore District commander, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Sen.Van Hollen, along with thenSen. Ben Cardin, also helped secure $11.1 million in federal funding for the last replenishment in 2022 through the Fiscal Year 2021 USACE Work Plan.
OC Today-Dispatch
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AUGUST 28, 2026
SURF REPORT
The Adventures
L
by Steve Green
of Fatherhood
(The following is a reprint from October 2022.) ife at home with 14- and 13year-old sons is a lot of things, the least of which is dull. Maybe your house is the same, depending on the age of the kids. The younger the kids are the more chaotic and busy the household. As the kids get older, it remains hectic, but the cerebral concerns take over as life becomes more complex and challenging. It’s interesting to take a snapshot in time of life with the kids, and here’s a look at some of the current observations of Beckett, 14, and Carson, 13. • Teens try to sound stupid when they speak. As I sat in my truck last Saturday night waiting for a school dance to end, the language and ignorance I overhead from the kids walking past was ridiculous. Most of the kids I have known for years, and I was astounded by how uneducated they wanted to sound. The only comfort I found was I didn’t hear any of the foolishness from my kid, but I am guessing he, too, thinks it’s cool to speak in a way altogether different than how he has been raised and educated. I asked Beckett about this observation later, and he said something along the lines of that’s just kids work these days. I wondered why there would be any reason to intentionally speak in a poor way when all these kids knew better and were smarter than they seemed. He said they probably think it sounds cool and quickly changed the topic, “oh along those lines, got anything good to eat?” This is how conversations with teens go it seems. • Carson, 13, has found a new favorite show, The Simpsons. His mom, on the other hand, loathes the show. He gets a kick out of the fact she doesn’t like it. Therefore, whenever he is done watching television, he likes to leave it on the show for her. For exam-
Locallyy F Famous For 48 Years!
ple, before school each morning, he usually has about 20 minutes or so to watch a show before school. When I tell him it’s time to get rolling, Carson usually leaves the television on an episode of The Simpsons. He oftentimes even pauses it on a part he knows his mom will not find appropriate or funny. This week I turned him on to something else his mom does not enjoy. I encouraged him to turn on a sports talk show where middle-age former athletes sit around and discuss sports headlines. Poor Pam never knows what she’s going to walk into, but she can count on it being something she would never watch or turn on for herself. The game gets played back on me as well, however, as the mother-andson team conspire to leave a home improvement show or the Home Shopping Network on for me whenever I am not in the room. • Multiple times every day I see Beckett, 14, walking around the house with his shirt off looking at himself in mirrors. I notice he also is usually perspiring a bit as well. Most of the time I don’t even bother digging into the why of what I am seeing. Other times the image is too much to pass up. A case in point would be one night this week when he randomly decided to take a shower and water was literally dripping down his back from his wet hair. He seemed to be looking at himself in the mirror to see what he looked like from behind dripping wet. It turns out he wanted to see what his back muscles would look like this summer getting out of the pool. It’s February but okay. Vanity is starting to become a thing it seems. • Two of Carson’s favorite things currently are salads and hooded sweatshirts. On salads, all the credit for this goes to his mom. I would have never imagined Carson would dig salads because he’s not a huge vegetable guy.
Brea fast Break Breakf
Caaf Cafe C
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His brother never eats salads, and he would view it as an extreme punishment if forced. For Carson, he really likes them and gets them as a side while out to eat. After an eye appointment in Baltimore this week, we told him to order anything he wants off the menu at a restaurant in Kent Narrows. He pointed to a salad. When Pam asked him he wanted anything on top of it, Carson pointed to grilled chicken. It was amazing, and he ate every single bite. He now views a big salad as a special treat. We have done something right on that front. On hooded sweatshirts, there’s something about the weight and feel that brings him comfort. Some hoodies he will not wear and others -- after he pulls out the drawstring -- he loves to the point he doesn’t want to wear anything else. I am worried about warm weather arriving. There’s something in his Autism brain that’s connected to wearing hoodies. In fact, on Thursday when it was expected to be a warm day, I told him a T-shirt is all he needs today. In an act of defiance, he put on a T-shirt with two heavy hooded sweatshirts over top. I could see at 6:31 a.m. this was going to be an issue, but I was hoping he would change his mind once he walked outside. I have accepted there are times when his special needs win. The fact it was going to be a warm day seemed to trigger stubbornness. When we pulled into school, I asked him one more time about taking off the hooded sweatshirts. I was hoping he was shed at least one. He refused and I could see the fight was not going to be worth starting his day on the wrong foot. So, on a day when it was in the mid-70s, he wore two sweatshirts.
(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.)
Dew point worth monitoring for humidity gauge By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer (Aug. 28, 2026) At this point it’s difficult to say but we may have turned a corner even if it’s a small one. Last week’s column/article concerned the heat and humidity of our summer. A large part of that article was also centered on the dew point which is a factor of weather that recently became a realization for me. Heat and dew point are measured in degrees. Humidity is measured as a percentage. All three come into play as to how your body feels. Friday, Aug. 21, saw the dew point drop into the mid-60’s. It was the first time that the dew point had dropped below 70 in quite some time and it felt very refreshing. This scenario created visions of the coming Fall season which is probably the best season this area has to offer. This notion also seems to take hold in most areas of our country. The Friday mentioned above was a precursor to how the Fall can be. Granted the summer heat is the highest season for visitors to come to the beach and is the main support for the local economy. The heat doesn’t seem to matter too much to these folks if they are on the beach and can jump into the ocean for an occasional cool off. After all that’s probably the reason they came to the beach in the first place in order to escape the inland heat. At any rate stay tuned. I’m sure we’re not totally finished with the higher temperatures, humidity, and dew points or as some describe it “the closeness of the air,” but we’re moving in the right direction. Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City
50
Years On!
AUGUST 28, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
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OC Today-Dispatch
vanishing
OCEAN CITY
With Bunk Mann
On July 24, 1937, a chimney fire in the sixstory George Washington Hotel on 10th Street sent the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company racing to the scene. Leading the way was Chief Ralph Dennis who climbed four flights of the hotel’s fire escape to put water on the sparking chimney. Believing he had extinguished the fire, Dennis looked down the flue when a blast of heavy smoke caught him by surprise and he collapsed on the roof overcome by the noxious fumes. A doctor was called as his fellow firefighters carried him down but he died that evening from a clot caused by a cough-induced broken blood vessel. Ralph R. Dennis (18881937) had been principal of the local high school, a member of Maryland House of Delegates, and a founding member of the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company. He would be the first member of the fire company to die in the line of duty. To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com. Photo courtesy of the OCFD
AUGUST 28, 2026
Things I Like... By Steve Green Berlin’s pepper eating contest Finding a great pillow Holding the door for a stranger The first cuts with a new knife Anything cooked on the grill Nice handwriting these days Shrimp with anything A back yard full of kids at play Quick rainstorms The first shave with a new blade The after feeling of a job done
AUGUST 28, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
DONAWAY FURNITURE
LABOR DAY SAVINGS 20% OFF STOREWIDE 25% OFF OUTDOOR NOW THROUGH SEPTEMBER 8TH IN STOCK MERCHANDISE ONLY 13001 COASTAL HIGHWAY • OC MD, 21842
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OC Today-Dispatch
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Jake, 16, and Connor, 9, in Ocean City
Wrenna, 8, Emma, 10, and Freya Wessner, 6, in Ocean City
AUGUST 28, 2026
Kason Collick, 5, in Ocean City
Paislynn Hutchins, 8, ‘in Ocean City
KIDS of the Summer (Part 2)
Karsyn Jo, 8, Kynnedi Reba, 7, Kori Rayne, 6, and Kamryn Avery, 4, in Tom’s Cove
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 name, age and location.
Cameron, 12, and Grace McCormick, 10, and Harper Mertz, 5, in Ocean City
Ben Fromm, 6, in Ocean City
Grace Fromm, 9, in Ocean City
Nico Field, 8, in the coastal bays
Julia Field 4, on Assateague Island
Ella Field, 5, on Assateague Island
Lucas Field, 10, in Ocean City
Arien, 12, and Annabelle Cimorosi, 1, in Ocean City
Alec, 10, and Benny Mong, 7, in Ocean City
Savannah, 3 and Chase Williams, 2, with Santa in OC
Elijah Donahue, 2, in Ocean City
Nathan, 10, and Matt Uzupus, 8, Elena Fox, 2, in Bethany Beach. and Harlow Lickteig, 3, in OC
Wade Mong, 2, in Ocean City
AUGUST 28, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
Art league’s First Friday to highlight new school year (Aug. 28, 2026) The Art League of Ocean City is inviting the public to a free First Friday opening reception on Friday, Sept. 4, from 5–7 p.m. at the Ocean City Center for the Arts, 94th Street bayside. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome. This September’s celebration features the Art League’s annual Block Party, with a dedicated focus on back-to-school momentum, education, and creative learning. Families can enjoy a hands-on back-to-school craft for kids, live entertainment, and complimentary hors d’oeuvres provided by Little Salisbury neighbors Lombardi’s Pizza and Blue Fish Restaurant. Embodying the Education Department’s mantra—Learn. Connect. Grow.—children and families can explore upcoming fall classes and register on site. Classes are offered during the day as well as during evenings and weekends. Dr. Mary Anne Cooper, Director of Education for the Art League, will be on hand throughout the evening to assist families in finding the ideal class for every age and skill level. Participating teaching artists will perform live demonstrations of their upcoming adult classes on site, giving prospective students a sneak peek into each instructor’s process and results: • Greg Cwalina – Resin Jewelry; Joan Guerriero – Acrylic Painting; Cindy Strouse – Pour Painting; Tom Kennedy – Photography; Katie Cassidy – Pastels; Barbara Buford – Alcohol Ink; Gerilyn Gaskill – Watercolor Educational mentorship and community learning continue throughout the gallery exhibits: • Studio E: Features artist and educator Katie Cassidy, whose luminous pastels are displayed alongside artwork created by her students, celebrating the creative growth fostered through art education. • Schwab Spotlight: Highlights paintings by local teacher and artist Jim Rehak, whose lifelong passion for art includes decades of teaching in Ocean City, alongside his work in comic illustration, portraiture, and plein air painting. • Thaler Gallery: Presents Visual Symphony, a group exhibition exploring the shared language of art and music by translating rhythm, melody, and harmony into expressive visual compositions. • Sisson Galleria: Showcases paintings created during the Artists Paint OC Festival, featuring award-winning plein air works available for purchase. • Felber Artisan Showcase: Features handcrafted, colorful beaded jewelry by Carol Claasen. In the Art League’s satellite galleries, Kathy Denk exhibits at the Coffee Beanery (94th Street and Coastal Highway), and Mason D’Aleo presents artwork in the lobby of the Princess Royale (9100 Coastal Highway).
PAGE 57
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TIDELAND LAW
OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 58
AUGUST 28, 2026
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Caesar salad with parmesan foam By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer (Aug. 28, 2026) The art of salad making is a rich cornucopia of flavor, texture, and presentation. Traditional and creative options must come into play for a unique and tasty experience. Let us take a closer look at a classic Caesar salad and how one can add a modern twist for a fabulous finish. The Caesar salad was created out of necessity when an unexpected rush of American holiday crowds depleted the kitchen’s food supplies, prompting Cardini to improvise with whatever ingredients remained. The salad was an instant hit and prepared tableside to add a wow factor and at the same time distracting the guests of its humble beginnings. The original Caesar salad did not include anchovies. Change is a good thing and I am happy that anchovies were eventually added to the list of ingredients. They give the salad an essence of umami which ultimately gives the salad more dept of flavor. Crisp Romaine lettuce and quality Parmesan cheese are a must. Wooden bowls are typically used for tableside service. The textured surface of
the wood helps grip the garlic and anchovies so you can easily mash them into a smooth paste. If time is of the essence, combine the dressing ingredients in a blender. Supermarkets are filled with premade Caesar salad dressings, but they cannot compare to one homemade. A Parmesan foam will certainly get your guests attention. Just make sure the dressing is cold and you shake your whipped cream dispenser with vigor. Ingredients 1 lemon 4 anchovy fillets packed in oil, drained 1 large egg yolk 2 cloves of garlic 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil 2/3 cup good quality grated Parmesan cheese, divided 1 cup favorite croutons 1 medium romaine lettuce hearts kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste 1. Rub the inside of a large wooden bowl with a cut clove of garlic, then mince the remaining garlic and anchovies with the back of a big spoon. 2. Whisk in the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and egg yolk until fully blended. 3. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice.
Slowly drizzle olive oil while whisking or tossing continuously until the mixture thickens into a creamy dressing. 4. Add salt and pepper to taste. Add one tablespoon of Parmesan cheese to the mixture. 5. Add crisp romaine lettuce into the bowl and gently toss until every leaf is coated with dressing. 6. Sprinkle in the remaining grated Parmesan cheese and croutons. A light dusting of freshly ground black pepper completes this dish.
Parmesan Cheese Foam Ingredients 2 cups heavy cream 1 cup whole milk 1 teaspoon unsalted butter 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese few pinches of kosher salt and garlic powder 1. Combine heavy cream, milk, and Continued on Page 59
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Answers on page 62
OC Today-Dispatch
AUGUST 28, 2026
HOROSCOPE ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Good vibes are heading your way, Aries. Cosmic energy continues through your sign, showing visions of future ambitions.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Appreciate the world around you, Taurus. It’s easy to get fixated on what isn’t working, but be grateful for all of the things that are going right.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, light banter is the name of the game for conversation this week. Avoid any topics that can lead to confrontation or confusion.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 You may have a sudden urge to get organized at home or the office, Cancer. Spend time sorting and clearing out the clutter to be more productive.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Celebrate yourself this week, Leo. You deserve some recognition just for being you. What better person than you to initiate that?
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Your responsibilities are at an alltime high right now, Libra. That means you are in high demand. Pick and choose projects to fit your schedule.
PAGE 59
ON GUARD
OCBP staff dwindles as fall nears By Kristin Joson Contributing Writer (Aug. 28, 2026) How many lifeguards does it take to watch 10 miles of Ocean City beach? It’s a question we get asked often, and the answer isn’t quite as simple as you might think. The answer really depends on the time of year and with the challenges of recruiting lifeguards in the past couple of years, that also makes the answer extra complex. On a typical day in the middle of summer, we prefer to be at full coverage with 90
stands deployed along our 10 miles of beach. However, during the early and late parts of summer, our numbers may be different based the number of people that we have available to work. A majority of our Surf Rescue Technicians (SRTs) range in age between 17 and 22, and are currently finishing high school or working on a college degree, which may affect their availability during June and late August as well as the “shoulder” times of summer. With the ideal 90 stands, it takes a minimum of 127 SRTs to just cover these stands, lunch shifts and days off. However, based on the typical workweek of an SRT, which is 5½ days, it takes addi-
tional SRTs to cover days off, special duties, training, Junior Beach Patrol camp, and all of our many outreach programs. In order to schedule such a large number of personnel, the beach patrol is organized into 18 crews, and each crew is made up of 7 to 9 guards. A Crew Chief and Assistant Crew Chief manage each crew on a daily basis. In addition to the SRTs, the Beach Patrol also employs Surf Beach Facilitators who monitor the daily surfing beaches (This adds an additional 6 stands). The leadership of the patrol is made up a Captain, one 1st Lieutenant, one 2nd Lieutenant, 12 Sergeants, and 1 Training Officer. The one Continued on Page 61
ate for two hours. 5. Add Parmesan cream to the whipped cream dispenser. Be careful not to overfill. Seal the top tightly. Insert the nitrous oxide charger into the cartridge holder and twist until you hear the gas release. 6. Shake the dispenser vigorously for about 30 seconds to incorporate the gas evenly. 7. Press the handle to release the foam. A dollop of Parmesan cheese foam
takes the salad to a level of sophistication. Serve immediately. * I purchased a D’VLORO Professional Stainless Steel Whipped Cream Dispenser along with a box of Chef Master Professional Whipped Cream chargers (10) on Amazon. They are reasonably priced and I am very happy with them. Secret Ingredient – Presentation It takes one hour of preparation for each minute of presentation time. - Wayne Burgraff
FOOD FOR THOUGHT Continued from Page 58 butter in a small saucepan over mediumlow heat. 2. Once the butter is melted, stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and garlic powder. Do not allow mixture to come to a boil. 3. Once the cheese has melted, about 15 minutes, pour mixture through a mesh strainer. 4. Allow the Parmesan mixture to come to room temperature and refriger-
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Give yourself a break, Libra. You have been putting your nose to the grindstone for a long time. You deserve an opportunity to enjoy the lighter side of life for a bit.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, advocate and negotiate for yourself as much as you can in the days to come. Some skillful selfpromotion can open new and exciting doors.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Right now your demeanor is sensitive and compassionate, Sagittarius. Unfortunately, this can make you vulnerable, so keep your friends close.
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CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 There may be surprises around the workplace this week, Capricorn. A supervisor may be sending mix signals. Ride out this unsettled time.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, patience is an asset this week. A careful approach to problem-solving will yield the results you’re seeking.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Try not to question the mysteries of the universe right now, Pisces. Unconventional vibes are coming your way, which may lead you on some bizarre, yet enjoyable journeys.
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PAGE 60
AUGUST 28, 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. 28 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/
BOARDWALK EAGLE HUNT
Ocean City Boardwalk, 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
BACK 2 SCHOOL BASH
Market St., Pocomoke City, 5-8 p.m. Collecting new school supplies to help stock the classrooms and supply closets in Pocomoke schools. Enjoy food vendors, cash bar, bounce house and DJ Kay. Supply list: https://downtownpocomoke.com. 410-957-1333
LIBERTY CALLS! MUSICAL THEATER
Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 7-9 p.m. Musical about the founding fathers as performed by the Lower Shore Performing Arts Company. Tickets: $25 per person. https://canvas.artleagueofoceancity.org/events/35, 410-524-9433
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
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
Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com
BRIDGE
Mondays - Ocean City 50plus Center, 104 41st Street, Ocean City, 12:30-3:30 p.m. Reserve a spot: Tish, 410-8043971. www.Worcoa.org/oceancity
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/
DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS
SUNDAES IN THE PARK WITH FIREWORKS
OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS
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.
OCEAN CITY SEAFOOD FESTIVAL
Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 1-8 p.m. Steamed crabs; Maryland seafood; beer, wine and cocktails, live music; cooking demos; family friendly and free to kids ages 16 and younger. Tickets: https://ocmdseafoodfest.com.
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/
BILL ENGVALL: HERE’S YOUR SIGN - IT WASN’T MY TIME!
Ocean City Performing Arts Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, 7 p.m. Featuring Bill Engvall, one of the top comedians in the country. Tickets: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/361425 02/bill-engvallheres-your-sign-it-wasntmy-time-ocean-city-oc-performing-artscenter.
FREE KIDS CRAFT SATURDAYS
Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Featuring “Turtle Collage.” Guided crafts led by friendly instructors. All supplies provided. Jessica Bauer, development@artleagueofoceancity.org, 410-524-9433
Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 7-9 p.m. Featuring “Fast Times at Shermer High: Back to the 80’s.” Ice cream for purchase. Followed by fireworks. https://www.ococean.com/things-todo/free-family-fun/sundaes-in-thepark/
QUACKS ON THE RACETRACK TRUCK GIVEAWAY FUNDRAISER Ocean Downs Casino, 10218 Racetrack Road, Berlin, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Duck Toss held following the 3rd race. Toss your duck ($5) for a chance to win a brand new 2026 Toyota Tacoma. https://www.oceandowns.com/promotions/quacks-on-the-racetrack-truckgiveaway-3/
BERLIN FARMERS MARKET
Sundays (May-October) - Pitts, Commerce and Main streets, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine. Producers only market, petting farm (9-11 a.m.), live music. www.TheBerlinFarmersMarket.com
SEWING SEEDS OF LOVE
Sundays - Buckingham Presbyterian Church, 20 S. Main St., Berlin, 10-11 a.m. Youth of all ages learn how to sew while making a difference. 410-6410234
JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING OCEAN PINES FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET
Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods. Also featuring family-friendly activities, music and unique shopping experiences. Open to the public, year round. 410-6417052, https://www.oceanpines.org/web/pages /farmers-artisans-market
Sat., Aug. 29
Sun., Aug. 30
OCEAN CITY JEEP FEST
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
Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 7:30
Sundays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 10 a.m. www.jw.org
Mon., Aug. 31 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.
Mondays - Worcester County Library Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 7-8 p.m. No dues or fees. 410-459-9100
Tues., Sept. 1 LIBRARY CARD SIGN UP CRAFT: MEI MEI THE BUNNY
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Celebrate the ALA’s honorary chair, singer-songwriter Laufey, with her new children’s book, “Mei Mei the Bunny.” Stop in to make a Mei Mei-themed craft and get a library card. 410-524-1818
PLAY TIME AT THE PARK
Cypress Park, 7 Bridge St., Pocomoke City, 10:30 a.m. Join in for a casual meet up. Play, have fun and meet friends. For ages 2-5 years. 410-957-0878, worcesterlibrary.org
BABY TIME
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Songs, rhymes and stories. Stay after to socialize with other families. For ages 0-2 years. 410-632-5622, worcesterlibrary.org
STORY TIME
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Story time featuring seasonal themes designed to support early literacy skills with stories, songs and fingerplays. For ages 0-5 years. 410-641-0650
OC KNITTING GROUP
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Bring whatever project you happen to be working on. 410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org
MASTER GARDENERS PLANT CLINIC
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1-4 p.m. Bring any questions you have and feel free to show your plants as well. 410208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org
Continued on Page 62
AUGUST 28, 2026
ON GUARD Continued from Page 59 leadership position you are most likely to notice is our area supervisors (sergeants) who patrol one of 4 areas along the beach on ATVs. At the beginning of summer, in early June, our numbers may be slightly lower due to a couple of reasons. First, the water in the beginning of June is slightly colder and the crowds are a little smaller requiring fewer guards. This enables us to fully staff our Surf Rescue Training Academy, which trains all of our new lifeguards for the job. We typically hold two academies, one the week before Memorial Day weekend and the other occurs in the middle of June. During this intense 60+ hour week, our guards learn everything they need to know to be successful Surf Rescue Technicians. Many people don’t realize that we do not require or accept certifications from other agencies. All of the training and certifications are provided by the beach patrol during a paid ( $21.00 hr – 2026 rate) Surf Rescue Training Academy. Starting the third week in August and the month of September we experience a reduction in staffing due to the fact that our personnel must return to other obligations. As previously mentioned, many of our guards are attending colleges and universities all over the country, all with different starting dates. Additionally, a good portion of the people that hold leadership or management roles on the beach patrol are professional educators at school systems and colleges throughout the country and return for professional activities at least 1 week prior to their students, which in most cases is two full weeks before Labor Day. These teachers are some of our most experienced SRTs and mostly in supervisory rolls on the beach. After Labor Day we lose all our educators during weekdays, although many are returning to help cover our beaches on the weekends. During this time of year, you will notice a larger distance between stands. This trend continues until our last day of the season which is the third Sunday after Labor Day. This season our last guarding day will be Sunday, Sept. 27. On the weekends, the number of stands will increase due to personnel returning from college or teaching responsibilities to work for the weekend. Although our coverage this time of the year is done with fewer personnel and lifeguard towers than during peak season we supplement this coverage by increasing the number of Mobile Rescue Units patrolling the beach. These mobile units are first-aid and AED equipped with one SRT (rider) acting as the primary rescue swimmer while the other SRT (driver) maintains radio communication and backup during an emergency. Both are qualified as surf rescue technicians, medical first responders and are quad (ATV) certified. This time of the year, we ask that you walk and only swim in front of the nearest lifeguard when we are on duty (10:00 – 5:30). Unfortunately, several individuals lost their lives the past few seasons while swimming while we were “Off Duty.”
OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 61
Come Join Us for
Rosh Hashanah and The High Holidays This Year!
You don’t have to be a member to celebrate Rosh Hashanah at Temple Bat Yam reform Jewish Temple in Berlin, Md. (Just 16 miles from Ocean View).
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
PAGE 62
AUGUST 28, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
Smith Island Cruises
Take the smoothest ride to Smith Island aboard the “Chelsea Lane Tyler” Leaves Somers Cove Marina in Crisfield, MD
12:30 FRee PaRKInG CRUISE CRAB LUNCH PACKAGE
CALENDAR Continued from Page 60 SAVE IT FOR LATER: INTRODUCTION TO FOOD PRESERVATION
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Learn about different types of food preservation and try drying herbs. Presented by the University of Maryland Extension. Registration required: 410524-1818. worcesterlibrary.org
TEEN ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 3:30 p.m. Join in for a discussion about library programming. Enjoy pizza and share ideas. For ages 12-18 years. Registration required: 410-208-4014. worcesterlibrary.org
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS SEAFOOD NIGHT
www.smithislandcruises.com
ISLAND AMENITIES
• Bayside Inn Restaurant
Known for its famous Crab Cakes and Smith Island Cake
• Golf Cart Rentals • Bicycle Rentals • Museum • Gift Shops
Directions:
Rt. 413 to Crisfield Turn left after Fire Dept. Stop at Capt. Tyler’s Motel for cruise tickets.
Reservations Required!
410-425-2771
Purchase your tickets online at www.smithislandcruises.com Like us on Facebook!
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://koc9053-seafoodnights.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
Tuesdays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 7 p.m. www.jw.org 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 Tuesdays - Lewes Senior Center, 32083 Janice Rd. Lewes, DE, 7-9 p.m. Experienced dancers and others interested in watching or learning more are welcome. No partner required. Info: TangobytheBeach.com.
BACK TO SCHOOL BASICS
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30 p.m. Create your own canvas pencil case to begin a new school year. For ages 6-11 years. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org
PUZZLE SWAP
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 1-7 p.m. Bring your gently used puzzles and leave with a new-to-you puzzle. Don’t have a puzzle but still want one? That’s okay, too. All puzzles must be complete and in their original box. All ages welcome. 410-6410650
YOUNG INVENTORS CLUB
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 4:30 p.m. Learn about the invention process, create your own logbook, and turn imagination into original ideas. For families. 410-524-1818, 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
ONGOING EVENTS HISTORY-TO-GO - PUMPKIN CARVING
Snow Hill library, 301 Bank St., throughout September. Learn how Halloween has been celebrated throughout history and get patterns to carve historically inspired pumpkins. 410-632-5622
KIWANIS CLUB MEETING
Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. Last Wednesday of the month meetings are offsite and information can be found on the website and Facebook. www.kiwanisofopoc.org.
CASH BINGO
Wednesdays - Ocean City Elks Lodge 2645, 13708 Sinepuxent Ave. Door open at 5 p.m., bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. Food available before bingo. Open to the public. 443-605-5028
ZUMBA PLUS!! TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY
ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE Crossword answers from page 58
Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m. Local author Dan O’Hare talks about his coming of age novel, “Water Dressed in Brown,” set in Ocean Pines in the early 1990s. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org
Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 4:30 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com
Thurs., Sept. 3 STORY TIME ‘ALL ABOUT FRIENDS’
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and rhymes. For ages 2-5 years. 410-632-5622, worcesterlibrary.org
STORY TIME: PAJAMA STORY TIME
TEEN TIME
Ocean Pines library, 11107 Cathell Road, throughout September, 3:30 p.m. Create a festive wreath in time for fall. While supplies last. For ages 12-18 years. 410208-4014
TEEN & TWEEN ADVISORY COMMITTEE NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS
Pocomoke library, 401 5th Street, Unit 100. Build leadership skills and add something meaningful to your resume. Applications are available in the guidance office at Pocomoke Middle School and Pocomoke High School. Submit application by Oct. 31. For ages 12-18 years. 410-957-0878
OC READS: ‘THE BERRY PICKERS’ BY AMANDA PETERS
Ocean City library, 10003 Coastal Highway, Sept. 1-30. Simply pick up a copy of this month’s read, “The Berry Pickers” by Amanda Peters. Come in before the end of the month to share your impressions and enter the drawing to win free books. 410-524-1818
STORYWALK TAKE AND MAKE
Snow Hill library, 301 Bank St., Sept. 1Nov. 30. Stop by the library to pick up supplies to make a fall nature mobile. Then, take a walk while you read the library’s newest StoryWalk title at John Walter Smith Park. For families. 410632-5622
ZUMBA TONING TUESDAYS
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Crafts, songs and stories. Wear your coziest pajamas. For ages 2-5 years. 410208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org
WEIGHT MANAGEMENT AND WELLNESS GROUP
OC CHESS CLUB
Berlin library, 13 Harrison Ave. Enjoy the monthly craft, work on the puzzle, add to the community journal or challenge a friend to a board or card game in the Teen Loft. For ages 12-18 years. 410641-0650
POCOMOKE BOOK CLUB: ‘JANE EYRE’ BY CHARLOTTE BRONTE
CHECK-OUT CHALLENGE
Tuesdays - Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 5:15 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com
CREATIVITY CORNER
Your communitY online
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., Sept. 2 AUTHOR TALK: DAN O’HARE octodaydispatch.com | baysideoc.com
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway,10:30 a.m. Enjoy a relaxing game of chess every month. 410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 2 p.m. Join in for a lively discussion. Books available at the Pocomoke Branch. 410-957-0878, worcesterlibrary.org
Visit different branches of the Worcester County libraries, read books and check out items using your library card. For every activity you complete, you get entered in the grand prize drawing. For families. 410-632-5622.
AUGUST 28, 2026
63
OC Today-Dispatch
Call 410-723-6397 or email classifieds@octodaydispatch.com by Monday, 5 p.m.
Classifieds appear in OC Today-Dispatch & Bayside Gazette each week & online at octodaydispatch.com & baysideoc.com
MARKETPLACE HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
RENTALS
ROOMMATES
SERVICES
WANT TO BUY
POSEIDON PLUMBING & HOME SERVICES is growing and we’re looking for an experienced Finish Carpenter to join our team! If you’re a skilled finish carpenter looking for a great opportunity with a local company, we want to hear from you! Call the office at 410-251-1096 today!
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
OCEANVIEW RENTAL BIKE WEEK, OCEANS CALLING, COUNTRY CALLING NEWLY AVAILABLE 2BR, 2BA, SLEEPS 6 38TH ST AND THE BEACH Great location, next door to Castle in the Sand, walk to Concerts, close to restaurants, convention center etc… 443-880-8885 or view and book: SeaLaVie https://book.vuestay.com/ ocean-city-bright-beachhome-near-the-boardwalkwi-b46jo9
ROOM FOR RENT Fully furnished, large, clean, private room. Full house privileges. $900 per mo., util’s included. $400 sec. dep. Call 443-880-2317.
LARRY’S HANDYMAN SERVICES No job too small, windows, entrance doors, interior doors, storm doors, shower doors, drywall repairs and paint, laminate floors, interior paint. Over 40 years of carpentry experience. Please call Larry, 410-251-9066 Larryandkim1954@ gmail.com
I BUY ALBUMS! 410-430-5349
MAINTENANCE WORKER Harbour Island Condo Association 14th Street, Ocean City Seeking a reliable Maintenance Worker for general property maintenance. Hours available: • 9:00 AM-2:00 PM, Monday-Sunday • 3:00 PM-8:00 PM, Monday-Sunday • 7 day a week • Year around A great opportunity for a retiree looking for flexible, part-time work. Competitive pay. For more information, contact Jimmer at 240-298-0365
NOW HIRING!! Production Crew for our WOC kitchen facility Up to $20/hr. Apply online at: www.delmarvadd.com
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 AMERICAN LEGION PT/YR COOKS Dependable, reliable BOOKKEEPER Part-time, familiar with Quickbooks on-line. Apply within. American Legion Post 166, 2308 Philadelphia Avenue, OC, MD 21842 410-289-3166
Join the Sea Colony East Maintenance Team! Now hiring high rise condominium/full time building maintenance techs. Great Benefit plan/paid time off! Apply online at troon.com/careers - company location Sea Colony Assoc East Email bethann.steele@seacolony.com Call 302-541-8831 for an interview
WINTER RENTAL Condo, 3BR, 2BA, 128th St., OCMD. Fully equipped, 4 TVs, internet, DVR, W/D. $1295 + utilities. 610-507-1298 or Djkr4@comcast.net WINTER RENTAL North OC, 1BR, 1BA Condo, 3rd Flr., walk-up. Furnished, W/D, Parking, Walking distance to restaurants. $1,100 per mo. + sec. dep. & utilities. Incl. WiFi. 412-965-4079 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
Run your business card in our SERVICE DIRECTORY CALL 410-723-6397 for pricing!
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.
COMMERCIAL COMMERCIAL 2 Office/Retail Spaces available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft. and 1728 sq. ft. Call 443-497-4200 Industrial Space Yard and Storage Shed. Approx. 10x25+/Route 90/Bishopville. Call 443-497-4200 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.
HUNTING ACCESS HUNTING ACCESS 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.
YARD SALE YARD SALE MULTI FAMILY YARD SALE Sat., 8/29, 7am-1pm 11019 Manklin Meadows Ln. Ocean Pines, MD
BOATS/PWC BOATS/PWC PONTOON FOR SALE 2023 Viaggio, 18’ Pontoon w/Trailer, Yamaha 90 Engine, 50 hours run time, 2 yr. remaining warranty. Docked in West OC. $36,000. Contact 717-428-2121.
Classifieds 410-723-6397
VEHICLES FOR SALE - 1991 CORVETTE 6 SPEED MANUAL, MD INSPECTION $19,000 ~ CONTACT 443-664-8832
Classifieds 410-723-6397 www.baysideoc.com www.octodaydispatch.com ~~~~~ Classifieds Deadline is Monday, 5 p.m.
CLASSIFIED AD NETWORK Serving the Newspapers of Maryland, Delaware and the District of Columbia since 1908.
MARYLAND STATEWIDE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING NETWORK SERVICES DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-855-337-5228 www.dental50plus.com/ MDDC #6258
FOR SALE Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-855-993-0969 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move. MISC. FOR SALE Get Boost Infinite! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 855-977-5719
MISC. FOR SALE Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 On-Demand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-855-407-6870 REAL ESTATE We Buy Houses for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-866-541-7929
Advertise in MDDC 410-723-6397
GET IT RENTED HERE! 410-723-6397 www.octodaydispatch.com • www.baysideoc.com
OC Today-Dispatch
www.octodaydispatch.com Order YOur Classifieds Online!
• Convenient • Quick • No Waiting, No Calls • Days, Nights & Weekends
OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 64
AUGUST 28, 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
443-856-8577 DinonguT@gmail.com
a clean that makes the difference
* NOW OFFERING * DISPOSAL ROLLOFF SERVICE Quick Reliable Service 7 Days A Week Clean Up Crews Available • 15 & 20 Yard
THE
Exterior Home Repairs
“WE DO IT ALL” • Roofing Repairs • Rain Gutters • Roof Cleaning • Gutter Guards
• Licensed and Fully Insured • Free Estimates • Locally Owned • Cleaning Specials • Roofing • Maintenance
• Screening • Painting
• Staining • Caulking
• Gutter Cleaning & Powerwashing •
HOME IMPROVEMENTS IMPROVEMENT HOME
MHIC#95214
“A Family Tradition Since 1935”
410-893-9707
SPRING CLEANUPS & MOWING
BATHROOM / KITCHEN WINDOW & DOORS INTERIOR / EXTERIOR CARPENTRY
PAINTING FLOORING SMALL JOBS & MORE CALL 410-999-4998
Pat Parrish
HOME HOME IMPROVEMENT IMPROVEMENT
HOME IMPROVEMENT
For All Your Construction Needs!
EVANS BROTHERS
Licensed & Insured VA # 2705 101009A MD MHIC # 92091 MD MHBR # 5658 DE # 2024942925
E. Chuck Cox
Home: 410-641-4304 Cell: 443-783-3972 stickframe@aol.com
HOME HOME IMPROVEMENT IMPROVEMENT
FROM FORM TO FINISH, LLC. • Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling • Finish Carpentry • Tile • Painting • Concrete Finishing Ben Armes, Owner/Operator
HOME IMPROVEMENT roofing
MHIC #127296
• Deck Repairs •
Cox Building & Remodeling 410.713.8599
TRADITIONAL HANDYMAN SERVICES
Licensed • Bonded • Insured • MHIC 17433 Phil Parrish
HOME IMPROVEMENT
Complete Home Improvement Contractor
RISH A RBEACHMAN PHANDY
410-984-4938
Decks / Screen Rooms / Wood / Composite Windows / Siding Bathroom / Kitchen Remodels Flooring Hardwood / LVP Ceramic Tiles FREE Estimates • Licensed And Insured MHIC #52065
HOME IMPROVEMENT
Hall’s Remodeling & Renovations
Custom Built Homes • Additions/Club Basements Kitchen & Bath Remodels • Roofs Custom Decks/Fences • Power Washing Painting • Pavers • Concrete MHIC #40933
Tony Campo / Dave Harmon
503-730-0553 Licensed & Insured
Parkville, MD 21234 • 410-977-2353 TCContractor64@gmail.com
HOME IMPROVEMENT
HOME IMPROVEMENT IMPROVEMENT HOME
PipeLine
Contracting, LLC
Home Improvement Services Company
“One stop shop for Home Improvement”
Home Improvement Design & Bertch Cabinet Retail • Cabinets & Countertop • Flooring & Tile • Kitchen & Bath Remodeling • Residential & Commercial • Servicing Maryland & • General Carpentry & Delaware Beaches Painting
US Veterans Administration Approved Contractor
11312 Manklin Creek, Rd., Ocean Pines, MD ~ Call or Stop in Today!
(410) 208-1518 • (410) 982-8368 pipelinecontracting.net • info@pipelinecontracting.net MDHIC # 107489 • DE # 2014100304 • Insured & Licensed
Specializing in Additions, Kitchens, Baths and All Types of Custom Remodeling.
Time to schedule and complete before Memorial Day!
We accept MC/Visa Ken Walsh 301-776-7249 • (410) 641-3762
OC Today-Dispatch
AUGUST 28, 2026
PAGE 65
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
MEN’S HAIR SERVICES
410-713-9159 Zelle Accepted
LANDSCAPING
Lawncare, Landscaping & Hardscapes S
• Spring Cleanup • Brush Removal • Hauling • Mulch • Planting • Driveway Seal Coating • Patio & Walkway • Custom Landscape
re s c a p e
s
ho
FREE ESTIMATES
MHIC #12398
410-430-7543
MDA #30202
443-783-2224 • edgarcjr@aol.com
FLASH OC LOCKOUT Auto & Home Lockout Service OPEN 24 / 7 Lockouts
Jumps
Gas Delivery
443 . 664 . 2650
www.Facebook.com/OCFlashLocksmith
MOVERS
MVA LICENSED
PAINTING
PAINTING • CUSTOM PAINTING • DRYWALL REPAIRS • WALLPAPER REMOVED • DECK & HOUSE STAINING Painting & Powerwashing • ALWAYS PROMPT SERVICE Interior & Exterior
PLUMBING
ROOFING
Zimmerman & Son LLC Serving Delmarva for Over 35 Years Licensed & Insured
Free Estimates
10% Discount with this ad. Bill Zimmerman cell 443-373-4539
STORAGE STORAGE
NOW ACCEPTING CREDIT CARDS!
We do it all from ground work to rough in to final trim & fixtures.
Plumbing and Gas, LLC
MD 62495 • DE 13060 • Insured
We Install:
Your Roofing, Siding & Home Improvement Specialist Since 1989
Winterization Packages • Repairs
Mike Moesle 410-629-1573, Fax: 410-629-1946
Faucets/Sinks • Showers/Tubs/Toilets Water Heaters • Water/Sewer Lines
CALL FOR ANY OF YOUR PLUMBING OR GAS NEEDS 410-430-3490 • LMSPlumbingandgas.com
TAX RESOLUTION / CREDIT SERVICES
AMA Consulting & Business Svcs, Inc We Solve Your Problems
Mae Phillips
Across from Casino
ROOFING & SIDING
(434) 382-8920 11806 Sheppards Crossing Road Whaleyville, MD 21874 amaconsultingandbusiness@gmail.com www.amaconsultingbusiness.com
ROOFING • SIDING • DURADEK • WINDOWS • GUTTERS
9240 Peerless Rd. • Bishopville, MD mmoesle@shoresidingmd.com • www.shoresidingmd.com
*Licensed in MD, DE &VA
TA AG & TITLE VEHICLE T TAG
TA T AG & TITLE T SER RV VIICE
No W Waaitt • W Waalk-In • No Apppointment Necessarryy Mon-Sat 9am - 5:30pm 5
Racetrack Auto A 11740 Worcester Hwy. Shhowell, MD 21862 410-352-50070 (Located on Rt. 113 - 1 min. Nortth of Racetrack Road)
PAGE 66
AUGUST 28, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices
TOWN OF OCEAN CITY OPERATING BUDGET AMENDMENT # 2 FISCAL YEAR 2026 ORDINANCE 2026-19 BE IT ENACTED AND ORDAINED by the Mayor and Council of Ocean City, Maryland, that the following fund revenue and departmental expenditures, together with certain restrictions and authorizations are adopted: General Fund
1ST READING
General Fund
1ST READING
AMENDMENT # 2
AMENDMENT # 2
FY - 2026 A.
FY - 2026
Anticipated Revenue: Property Taxes
B. Anticipated Expenditures: 56,426,104
General Government
Other Taxes
32,621,305
Public Safety
54,338,236
Licenses and Permits
6,523,732
General Public Works/Beach Maintenance
8,055,312
Revenue From Other Agencies
9,625,225
Sanitation and Waste Removal
8,553,230
Charges For Current Services
14,582,060
Highways and Streets
7,079,655
Fines and Forfeitures
1,573,720
Economic Development - Tourism
18,173,238
Other Revenue
3,050,616
Culture and Recreation
9,930,440
Prior Year Reserves
3,067,128
Debt Service
Total Revenue
$
$
127,469,890
$
5,523,151
Total Expenditures
$
To Airport
Total Revenue
$
127,469,890
and Other Financing Sources
320,159 2,296,535
To Convention Center
2,407,140
To Capital Maintenance
1,500,000
To Capital Projects
2,021,495
To Vehicle Trust Total Expenditures
Convention
$
Bond Proceeds
Transportation
Center
Golf Wastewater
Airport
Course
9,421,941 $
2,374,141 $
2,929,895 $
16,191,630 $
1,594,863 $
3,206,649
4,601,359
0
0
42,637,226
0
1,777,567
142,128
0
0
248,160
0
0
Grants/Capital Asset/Insurance
0
6,451,132
2,457,139
0
8,571,194
0
Food and Beverage Tax
0
0
1,860,000
0
0
0 7,918
Capacity/Impact Fees
Prior Year Reserves Transfer-In From General Fund Total Revenue
144,980
356,580
389,099
3,211,902
125,029
$
0 14,310,408 $
2,296,535 11,478,388 $
2,407,140 10,043,273 $
0 62,288,918 $
320,159 10,611,245 $
0 4,992,134
$
414,115 $
1,400,286
Anticipated Expenditures: Personal Services
2,357,177 $
3,403,679 $
4,474,726 $
4,630,165 $
Non-Personal Services
4,258,430
3,586,222
3,392,633
6,232,885
1,038,061
1,597,208
Capital Outlay
5,751,359
4,488,487
35,966
49,109,639
9,159,069
1,803,784
Debt Service
1,845,741
0
1,668,519
2,316,229
0
Transfer to Reserves Total Expenditures
97,701 14,310,408 $
0 11,478,388 $
471,429 10,043,273 $
0 62,288,918 $
Information
Service
Vehicle
Risk
Pension &
Capital
Technology
Center
Trust
Management
OPEB Trust
Projects
$
0 10,611,245 $
86,476 104,380 4,992,134
Anticipated Revenue: Charges to Other Funds
$
Inv Earnings/Grants/Insurance
2,796,338 $
5,606,322 $
4,088,218 $
4,054,522 $
9,005,000 $
0
28,375
117,699
8,550,000
0
0
0
0
2,405,000
0
0
479,490
0
0
0
0
1,493,316
0
0
15,578
0
Employee Contributions
0
Sale of Capital Assets/Lease Rev
0 20,112
Prior Year Reserves General Fund Contribution Total Revenue B.
1,089,989 127,469,890
Anticipated Revenue: Service Charges
A.
$
and Other Financing Uses
Water
B.
117,834,572
To Transportation
Enterprise Funds: A.
6,181,310
1,089,989 7,179,388 $
0 4,172,221 $
0
$
0 2,832,028 $
0 5,606,322 $
0 19,960,000 $
3,761,495 3,761,495
$
1,331,640 $
2,081,624 $
1,459,810
3,524,698
1,292,294
3,882,966
1,135,000
0 $
0 0
0
0
905,092
0
0
0
15,578
0
4,982,002
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
12,375,000
0
Transfer to Reserves
25,000
0
0
60,000
6,450,000
Capital Projects Total Expenditures
0 2,832,028 $
0 4,172,221 $
0 19,960,000 $
Anticipated Expenditures: Personal Services Non-Personal Services Debt Service Capital Outlay Benefit Payments
$
0 5,606,322 $
0 $
0 7,179,388 $
229,255 $
0 3,761,495 3,761,495
Special Authorization - Budget Director The Budget Director shall be authorized to reallocate departmental appropriations among the various objects of expenditures as she deems necessary. Such changes shall be approved by the Finance Director & City Manager Restrictions - City Manager: A.
The utilization of any contingency appropriation shall be accomplished only with prior authorization from the Mayor and Council.
B.
Utilization of appropriations established in the Capital Improvement Fund may be accomplished only with the express approval of the Mayor and Council.
Tax Rate: An Ad Valorem Tax Rate of $0.4426 per $100 of assessed valuation of real property and a rate of $1.11 per $100 of assessed valuation of corporate and personal property tax is required to fund this budget. INTRODUCED at a meeting of the City Council of Ocean City, Maryland held on August 17, 2026 SECOND READING of this ordinance shall be held at a meeting of the Mayor and City Council on September 8, 2026.
OCD-8/27/1t
AUGUST 28, 2026 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.
PAGE 67
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 _________________________________
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-
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 _________________________________ 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 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
PAGE 68
AUGUST 28, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices
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 _________________________________ 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
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 ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 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 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 _________________________________
ings, 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 _________________________________
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 proceed-
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 request-
ing 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 _________________________________ 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 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:
AUGUST 28, 2026 (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 Dagdon 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.
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OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices 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 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: August 20, 2026 OCD-8/20/3t _________________________________
TOWN OF OCEAN CITY
ORDINANCE 2026-20
RE: Issuance of General Obligation Municipal Purpose Bonds Notice is hereby given by the Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, that Ordinance 2026-20 was introduced for first reading at their meeting of August 17, 2026. Second reading is scheduled September 8, 2026. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review in the Office of the City Clerk, City Hall 3rd Street and Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, or online at oceancitymd.gov in the August 17 agenda packet. This ordinance authorizes the Mayor and Council to issue and sell General Obligation Bonds not to exceed Eighteen Million Dollars ($18,000,000) for Baltimore Avenue redevelopment, 61st Street racquet center redevelopment, solid waste transfer station rehabilitation, land acquisition, water treatment plant improvements, airport taxiway “A” relocation and convention center kitchen/concession renovations. OCD-8/27/1t _________________________________
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 _________________________________
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, October 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 Elec-
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tion on Tuesday, October 6, 2026. TOWN OF BERLIN BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF ELECTIONS OCD-8/20/2t _________________________________
Town of Berlin
CANDIDATE FILING DEADLINES
Tuesday, September 22, 2026 (postmarks 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 _________________________________
6:45 p.m. Case No. 26-61, on the application of Mark Spencer Cropper, on the lands of Coastal Square, LLC, requesting a special exception to allow an 8 foot high enclosure around a dumpster in a front yard setback in the C-3 Highway Commercial District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3), ZS 1305(k)(3) and ZS 1-325 located South of US Route 50 (Ocean Gateway), Tax Map 26, Parcel 474, Lot 4, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland OCD-8/27/2t _________________________________
Town of Berlin
MAIL-IN VOTING APPLICATION AVAILABILITY
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
NOTICE
OF PUBLIC HEARING WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS AGENDA Thursday, September 10, 2026 Pursuant to the provisions of the Worcester County Zoning Ordinance, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held in-person before the Board of Zoning Appeals for Worcester County, in the Board Room (Room 1102) on the first floor of the Worcester County Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland. Audio and video recording will take place during this public hearing. The public is invited to view this meeting live online at https://worcestercountymd.swagit.co m/live 6:30 p.m. Case No. 26-60, on the lands of Dennis & Patricia Drazin, requesting a variance to the front yard setback from 25’ to 14.5’ (encroachment of 10.5 feet) for a proposed 12’x 20’ detached garage in the R-3 Multi-family Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-207(b)(2) and ZS 1305, located at 42 Grand Port Rd, Tax Map 16, Parcel 38, Section 1, Lot 466, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland. 6:35 p.m. Case No. 26-51, on the lands of Edward & Karen Varmon, requesting a variance to the Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area Buffer from 100 feet to 6 feet (an encroachment of 94 feet) for the placement of a 14’ x 18’ shed in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-206(b)(2) and ZS 1-305 and Natural Resources Code §§ NR 3-104(d)(4) and NR 3111 located at 13301 Rollie Road West Rd, Tax Map 4, Parcel 25, Block A, Lot 53, Tax District 5 of Worcester County, Maryland. 6:40 p.m. Readvertisement of Case No. 26-52, on the lands of RJM LLC, on the application of Robert Mason Jr., requesting a special exception for a private noncommercial building for the storage of personal property in the A-1 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3), ZS 1-201(c)(34) and ZS 1305, located on Old Stage Road approximately 1,700 feet south of Hammond Road, Tax Map 9, Parcel 126, Tax District 5, Worcester County, Maryland.
Living Shoreline) 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-8/27/7t _________________________________
NOTICE
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 _________________________________
AUGUST 28, 2026
OF PUBLIC HEARINGS BOARD OF PORT WARDENS Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland
BID SOLICITATION
B03-27 – Northside Park Living Shoreline The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking BID’s from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Northside Park Living Shoreline and for said work to conform with the BID Documents. BID Documents for the Northside Park Living Shoreline may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Leonard at dleonard@oceancitymd.gov, or by calling (410) 723-6643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their BID’s. The Town is not responsible for the content of any BID Document received through any third-party service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed BID Documents. A Pre-BID Meeting will be held on THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3RD, 2026 AT 10:00AM EST, AT THE NORTHSIDE PARK COMMUNITY ROOM, 200 125TH STREET, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842. The Last Day for Questions will be on THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17TH, 2026 AT 4:00PM EST. Addendum will be posted by close of business on FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2026. Sealed BID Documents are due no later than FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9TH, 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, OCTOBER 13TH, 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 (Northside Park
Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 106 ”Waterways,” Article II – “Shoreline Development” of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Port Wardens Ordinance of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland. Thursday, September 10, 2:00 PM PW 26-038 A request has been submitted to install 60’ or replacement vinyl bulkheading; remove a 5’ x 11’ section of dock, construct a new 6’ x 19’ dock, drive two (2) mooring piles, install one (1) boatlift with associated pilings. All work 13.5’ channelward extension. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 227 N HERON DR Parcel # 5313A-43 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. OWNER: Stephanie Mary Ring APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc. PW 26-046 A request has been submitted to install 40’ of replacement vinyl bulkhead including six batter piles, 18” channelward; Install one boat lift with associated pilings maximum channelward 31.5’. Also; In kind replacement of existing boat pilings and existing dock. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 143 PINE TREE RD Parcel # 8020A-1331B- in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. OWNER: Brian Horn APPLICANT: McGinty Marine Construction PW 26-047 A request has been submitted to install 42’ of new vinyl bulkhead 18” channelward; Replace existing 5’x40’ parallel dock, 5’x30’ perpendicular pier, four (4) existing mooring piles including boatlift and jet ski lift. All construction will move with new bulkhead making maximum channelward 38’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 603 HARBOUR DR Parcel # 8020A-1555B- in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. OWNER: Carol Hunter APPLICANT: Bayshore Marine PW 26-048 A request has been submitted to relocate an existing boatlift by removing two (2) pilings
AUGUST 28, 2026 and redriving and install 2 new additional piling maximum channelward extension 38’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 1556 TEAL DR Parcel # 3429 -15 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. OWNER: Ty Williams APPLICANT: Kayla Lewis PW 26-049 A request has been submitted to install one boatlift on existing pilings maximum channelward 28’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 18 PIN TAIL POINT CM Parcel # 9647 -18 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. OWNER: Christopher Shelton APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc. PW 26-050 A request has been submitted to install a 6’ x 44’ perpendicular pier maximum channelward extension of 50’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 805 PENGUIN DR Parcel # 4481 -41 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. OWNER: Jacqueline De Groft APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc, Inc. OCD-8/27/2t _________________________________ B. RANDALL COATES ESQ COATES, COATES, & COATES 204 WEST GREEN STREET P O BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of MONNA VAN ESS Estate No. 21234 Notice is given that CAROLYN MARIE VAN ESS whose address is 703 MARKET ST POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851-1101 was on AUGUST 20, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MONNA VAN ESS who died on MARCH 01, 2024 with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 20th 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 20th 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 de-
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OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices livery 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-8/27/3t _________________________________ RYAN E VALENTINE ESQ SHAFFER LAW OFFICE 11033 CATHELL RD BERLIN, MD 21811-9328
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of BARBARA JOAN SHREEVE Estate No. 21231 Notice is given that LYDIA REBECCA EGOLF whose address is 3320 WILD CHERRY RD WINDSOR MILL, MD 21244-2907; EMILY ELIZABETH SHREEVE whose address is 103 HIGH SHERIFF TRL BERLIN, MD 21811-2046 were on AUGUST 24, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of BARBARA JOAN SHREEVE who died on JULY 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 be-
fore the 24th 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 24th 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 o 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-8/27/3t _________________________________ SMALL ESTATE
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20771 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF
MICHAEL JOLLY AKA: MICHAEL REX JOLLY SR. Notice is given that Lauren Joy Neff, 2858 Aspen Hill Rd., Baltimore, MD 21234-2143, was on August 17, 2026 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Michael Jolly who died on April 04, 2025, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.
LEGAL ADVERTISING 410-723-6397 legals@octodaydispatch.com
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OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices
Lauren Joy Neff 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 27, 2026 OCD-8/27/1t _________________________________
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, September 10, 2026 AT 6:00 P.M. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(1), Powers of the Code, an application has been filed to appeal the zoning determination dated April 9, 2026, which states that the requested amendment to Permit 251995 is denied because the second floor of the dwelling is defined as and is subject to the requirements of a habitable attic under Section 110-2 of the Ocean City Code. The Property is described as Lot 977, Section 5B, of the Montego Bay Mobile Home Park Plat. It is further described as being on the north side of Sea Lane and is locally known as 103 Sea Lane in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. APPLICANT: QUINN MCGINNES, ESQ. FOR JAMES E. LARUE, INC. (BZA 2740, #2609300001) Further information concerning the public hearings may be examined in the office of the Department of Planning and Community Development in City Hall. Christopher Rudolf, Chairman Maureen Howarth, Attorney OCD-8/27/2t _________________________________
NOTICE
TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES ESTATE NO. 21233 NOTICE IS GIVEN that the CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT of FAIRFAX COUNTY, VIRGINIA appointed CHARLES E. PETITT III whose address is 11708 MALLARD RD., LORTON, VA 22079-4113 as
the EXECUTOR of the Estate of STELLA MAE PETITT who died on MAY 17, 2026 domiciled in VIRGINIA, USA. The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is MARY DILL whose address is 39 COLONIAL DR., LINTHICUM HEIGHTS, MD 21090-1611. 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. TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-8/27/3t _________________________________ SMALL ESTATE
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of BARBARA ANN MCKENZIE MORRIS Estate No. 21235 Notice is given that BERNICE HUDSON whose address is 7010 SOUTHMOOR ST., UNIT 1213, HANOVER, MD 21076-2130 was on AUGUST 21, 2026 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of BARBARA ANN MCKENZIE MORRIS who died on MARCH 23, 2026 without a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written no-
tice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-8/27/1t _________________________________
MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL
NOTICE
of Public Hearing Planning Commission Notice is hereby given that the Planning Commission for the Town of Snow Hill Maryland will conduct a public hearing in accordance with the provisions of Snow Hill Town Code, Chapter 200 Zoning, Article XIV, §200-134 C (2) on: Monday, September 14, 2026 6:30PM 309 N Washington St., Town Hall Annex Case No. 260004. (Item 1) To request a zoning map amendment from R-2 Medium Density Residential, to R-3 High Density Residential for the following property: 216 Belt Street, Snow Hill MD, Tax Account: 02-022745. Map 0200, Grid 0023, Parcel 0666 consisting of 3. 5 acres owned by Bergey Properties LLC. (Item 2) To request a zoning text amendment to §200-77 (I) to increase the maximum density permitted from eight dwelling units per acre to 14 dwelling units per acre. For more information or to review information regarding this application contact the Snow Hill Planning/Zoning/Building Department at 410-632-2080 ext. 104 or email codeofficial@snowhillmd.com OCD-8/27/2t _________________________________
MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL Notice of Public Hearing Planning Commission Notice is hereby given that the Planning Commission for the Town of Snow Hill Maryland will conduct a public hearing in accordance with the provisions of Snow Hill Town Code, Chapter 200 Zoning, Article XIV, §200-134 C (2) on: Monday, September 14, 2026 6:30PM 309 N Washington St., Town Hall Annex Case No. 260098. To request a
AUGUST 28, 2026 zoning map amendment from M-1 Light Industrial to R-3 High Density Residential for the following property: Belt Street, Snow Hill MD, Tax Account: 02-022710. Map 0200, Grid 0017, Parcel 0691. The property to be rezoned consists of 1.53 acres (Parcel A) from an original parcel containing approximately 2.43 acres owned by ESP Holdings Corporation. For more information or to review information regarding this application contact the Snow Hill Planning/Zoning/Building Department at 410-632-2080 ext. 104 or email codeofficial@snowhillmd.gov OCD-8/27/2t _________________________________ MICHAEL B MATHERS ESQ DOUSEWEBB, WILBUR, MATHERS ILLUMINATI & LUKAS, LLP PO BOX 910 SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of CHRISTINE L AMES Estate No. 21241 Notice is given that JESSICA M NYMAN whose address is 6420 JULIE ANN DR HANOVER, MD 21076-2008 was on AUGUST 24, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of CHRISTINE L AMES 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 24th 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 24th 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. TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-8/27/3t _________________________________
OC Today-Dispatch
’ s g n Incl i h t ud y r Ev T Th he — e ve — Even
PAGE 73
®
d
E
AUGUST 28, 2026
BEAC ACH NEW HO HOM MES AT THE E BEACH BEA FROM THE $20 $200S–$800 –$ $800S
Delaware
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Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Upper $300s
Coming Soon Single Family Homes from the Upper $400s
Newdale acres ELLENDALE, DE
Bridgewater FRANKFORD, DE Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Low $500s
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the oaks GEORGETOWN, D DE Coming Soon Townhomes
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Coming Soon Single Family Homes
Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Upper $300s
FRANKFORD, DE Coming Soon Single Family Hom mes, Townhomes, and Villas
forest landing ELLENDALE, DE
Somer rton Chase MILLSBORO, O, DE
Westwood MILFORD, DE
Now Selling Single Family Homes and Villas from the Upper $300s
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lakeside at trappe
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Maryland
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OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 74
AUGUST 28, 2026
Updates slated for center’s food operations By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Aug. 28, 2026) Plans to modernize the convention center’s food and beverage operations are moving ahead in Ocean City. Last week, the Ocean City Council approved a resolution declaring its intent to begin spending money on a food and beverage project within the Roland E. Powell Convention Center, with expenditures to be reimbursed through a bond sale later this year. The improvements are tied to the city’s recently renewed contract with food and beverage operator Sodexo, which will fund half of the project costs. “This is declaring the Mayor and Council’s intent to reimburse expenditures to be incurred with respect to certain projects from the proceeds of debt to be incurred not to exceed $1.45 million,” City Solicitor Heather Stansbury told the council last Monday. “This is specifically for the convention center food and beverage improvement project, which was part of the Sodexo food and beverage contract renewal that was reviewed at the April 28 work session.” In April, the Ocean City Council voted to renew its contract with the convention center’s food and beverage vendor, Sodexo, for another 11 years. Officials said the company had pro-
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Concession area upgrades are coming to the Roland E. Powell Convention Center in Ocean City through a 50/50 cost share program split between Ocean City and food and beverage operator Sodexo.
vided “exceptional” service over the last decade and had raised revenues and food service quality. In addition to percentage increases, the renewed contract includes a plan for renovating the concession food service area. The agreement lays out a 50/50 cost share for the capital im-
provements, with both the city and the company each contributing $1.45 million for the project. Specifically, work will include modernizing the main kitchen, purchasing new china, glass and silverware, upgrading equipment and technology, and installing a “Grab N Go” bar and
coffee shop. Back on the agenda last week, the City Council voted 6-0, with Councilman John Gehrig absent at the time of the vote, to begin spending money on the project. Those expenses will be reimbursed through a bond sale set to take place this fall.
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AUGUST 28, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 75
FIRST FRIDAY IN OCEAN CITY
SUBMITTED PHOTOS/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
The month of August’s exhibit was celebrated with a First Friday reception hosted by the Art League of Ocean City at the Center for the Arts on 94th Street. Above left, a handshake between generations and a celebration of art, as father and son Kevin and Evan Fitzgerald brought their unique artistic styles together for a special August exhibition at the Art League of Ocean City. Above right, Mason D’Aleo proudly stands with her artwork during the Art League of Ocean City’s August First Friday Celebration. Her paintings were also on display at the Princess Royale, Bayside.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Left, Gregg Rosner was the featured artist in the Spotlight Gallery at the Art League of Ocean City for the month of August. He is pictured standing proudly alongside his captivating artwork.Right, Board members John Sisson and Virginia Outten, along with Director Rina Thaler, enjoy the excitement of the August First Friday Gallery Opening at the Art League of Ocean City
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Left, Pauline Rakis stands alongside her artwork in Studio E, where her work is on display throughout the month of August at the Art League of Ocean City. Right, Gregory Cwalina showcases his work in the Artisan Showcase during the Art League of Ocean City’s August First Friday Opening. His unique artistry and collection are on display throughout the month.
OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 76
AUGUST 28, 2026
City makes changes to FY26 spending plan Amendments to account for changes in budgeted revenues, expenses, more By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Aug. 28, 2026) Several budget amendments within the fiscal year 2026 spending plan will advance to a second reading following a council vote last week. On Aug. 17, the Ocean City Council voted unanimously to approve a series of changes in the FY26 budget. Those adjustments, presented last month, will affect both revenues and expenses, as well as enterprise funds. “This was as reviewed at the July 28 work session,” City Solicitor Heather Stansbury told the council last week. Last month, Budget Manager Jennie Knapp came before the City Council to request several changes to the FY26 spending plan, which closed out on June 30. Those amendments
included budgets that were above or below revenue and expense projections. Within the enterprise accounts, for example, convention center revenues increased $421,736, which offset an increase in operating expenses and reduced the city’s need to use $76,000 in fund balance. And at the airport, the city collected $228,565 in revenue from Globalinx, the company leasing space at the facility for a transatlantic cable landing. Other revenues, including fuel sales and service charges and rent, decreased. Enterprise accounts also include the water, wastewater and transportation funds, all of which recorded some budget changes. The transportation department, for example, received capital grants to purchase new buses, while recording additional revenues and decreased expenses. In the general fund, the budget recorded an overall increase of $5.1 million. That change, Knapp said, recognizes revenues that exceed the bud-
geted amount and a reduction in the use of prior year funds. On the revenue side, grants, donations, and interest on investments increased $2.9 million; income, highway user, and amusement tax increased $1.2 million; and service charges (fees), room licenses and building permits increased $1.5 million. The city recorded a $308,987 decrease in parking revenue, a $105,000 decrease in parking and tow fines, a $64,860 decrease in corporation and excise tax revenues, a $60,000 decrease from the cable TV franchise, and a $50,998 reduction in Winterfest revenues. The city also recorded a $6.13 million increase in expenditures, with the bulk of the increase related to police overtime, take-home vehicles, and an Axon equipment contract. Other expense increases include $565,475 in vehicle repairs within solid waste and public works, $247,682 for Beach Patrol part-time and overtime, $240,000 in legal fees, and $196,532
in energy costs. Expense reductions, on the other hand, totaled $951,839. With revenue increases, expenditure reductions and a decrease in transfers to the city’s transportation division, the amount of fund balance used in fiscal year 2026 will decrease $1.4 million from what was initially budgeted. However, $975,000 of that savings will fund the police takehome vehicle program. Other balances set to change include deferred ticket revenue the city received from the Oceans Calling festival, Country Calling festival and other concerts. That balance is expected to increase from $428,000 to $1.3 million. The city will use $771,267 from that account to cover concert advertising, Winterfest displays, special events, and more. A motion to adopt the changes on first reading passed in a 7-0 vote last week. The finalized FY26 budget will be shared in the city’s annual report, which is presented each fall following an annual audit.
Aug. 27 - Sept. 3 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
Mon-Fri 9am-4pm
12430 Old Bridge Rd., West OC
2BR/2BA
Single Family
from $279,750
Shelly Wilson/Salt Life Community
Friday Noon-2pm
12301 Jamaica Avenue #351N, Ocean City
2BR/2BA
Condo
$499,900
Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty
Friday 2-4pm
6201 Coastal Highway #806, Ocean City
4BR/3BA
Condo
$1,678,000
Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty
Saturday 10:30am-12:30pm 35596 N. Gloucester Circle, Millsboro, DE
3BR/2.5BA
Townhome
$305,000
Katie Landon/Coldwell Banker Realty
Saturday 10:30am-12:30pm 12301 Jamaica Avenue, #351N, Ocean City
2BR/2BA
Condo
$499,900
Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty
Saturday 11am-1pm
5034 Spencer Rd, Snow Hill
4BR/3.5BA
Single Family
$699,300
Power of 2 Team/Hileman Real Estate
Saturday 11am-3pm
12430 Old Bridge Rd., West OC
2BR/2BA
Single Family
from $279,750
Shelly Wilson/Salt Life Community
Saturday Noon-2pm
75 King Richard Road, Ocean Pines
4BR/3.5BA
Single Family
$829,900
Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty
Saturday 1-3pm
306 14th Street Unit A, Ocean City
3BR/3.5BA
Townhome
$899,900
Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty
Saturday 2-4pm
12418 Coastal Marsh Drive, Berlin
4BR/3.5BA
Single Family
$657,500
Katie Landon/Coldwell Banker Realty
Sunday 10:30am-12:30pm
953 Yacht Club, 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
Sunday 1-3pm
22 Capetown Road, Ocean Pines
4BR/2.5BA
Single Family
$424,500
Rob & Anne-Marie Bouse/RE/MAX Advantage Realty
Sunday 1:30-3:30pm
12418 Coastal Marsh Drive, Berlin
4BR/3.5BA
Single Family
$657,500
Katie Landon/Coldwell Banker Realty
Monday Noon-2pm
306 14th Street Unit A, Ocean City
3BR/3.5BA
Townhome
$899,900
Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty
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.
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OC Today-Dispatch
AUGUST 28, 2026
PAGE 77
Fire department remembers 9/11 By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Aug. 28, 2026) In remembrance of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, the Ocean City Fire Department will lead a series of tributes on the Boardwalk, beginning Sept. 9. For the sixth consecutive year, the department will host its "Remembrance Beams of Light” display at the Ocean City Firefighter Memorial, located on the Boardwalk at North Division Street. There, twin beams will illuminate the sky in a tribute to the lives lost 25 years ago. “We invite our community to join us at the Ocean City Firefighter Memorial as we pause to remember and honor the lives lost on September 11, 2001,” the fire department shared on Facebook this week. “May we never forget those who made the ultimate sacrifice and the countless lives forever changed that day.” Beginning at 6:30 each night, from Sept. 9 through Sept. 13, the fire department will host nightly video tributes to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the attacks that claimed lives of those in New York City, Arlington, Va., and near Shanksville, Pa. Nearby, twin pillars of light will illuminate the Ocean City skyline. In addition to the nightly programs, the department will host a morning tribute at the firefighter memorial on Sept. 11. The memorial service will be held from 8:45 a.m. to 10:45 a.m., which encompasses the timeframe in which the four planes struck and the Twin Towers collapsed. The department will then join the Red Knights Motorcycle Club at noon for a joint memorial service. The motorcycle club will meet the department at the memorial following a “Parade of Brothers” ride down the Boardwalk.
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For the sixth year in a row, the Ocean City Fire Department is hosting a lineup of 9/11 tributes. The series will run from Sept. 9 through Sept. 13 with nightly video tributes beginning at 6:30.
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Serving the Ocean City Community since 1971.
Welcome to the highly sought-after Montego Bay community in North Ocean City! Enjoy everything OCMD has to offer while owning this 3 bedroom 2 full bath home. Front Bedrooms have a Jack and Jill full bath. You will love the wide open floor plan. There is also a covered back porch for relaxing after a day at the beach or pool. This vibrant neighborhood offers the perfect blend of coastal charm and resort-style amenities. Located just blocks from the beach and a beach bus ride away to Ocean City's famed boardwalk. Sold Partially Furnished For $354,900 The Original Montego Bay Specialist Since 1971!
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13901 Coastal Hwy., #8, Ocean City, MD
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13901 Coastal Hwy., #8, Ocean City, MD
www.larryholdrenrealestate.net • email: ocmdhre@gmail.com
CHARMING 4 BR, 2 BA RESIDENCE with LOW HOA GREAT LOCATION with 2 BOAT SLIPS & A BOATLIFT Beautifully maintained double-wide home in desirable Montego Bay community. Built in 2017, the home has 1,224 SF of comfortable living space, 4 spacious BRs & 2 full BAs. This partially furnished home is ready for you to move in & make your own. Concrete 2-vehicle driveway. With manageable 0.08-acre lot, this home combines comfort & low maintenance living. Embrace the joy of community living moments away from local attractions. Amenities: 2 inground pools, 1 kiddie pool, 2 tennis courts, pickle ball courts, shuffleboard court, 9-hole mini-golf, bayfront boardwalk with 3 fishing/crabbing piers, wildlife sanctuary/park area with 8-acre pond & blacktop walking/jogging path...all for low HOA fee of $415.00/year! Wonderful opportunity for those seeking cozy, inviting space for vacationing or to call home. Don't miss out! Make this delightful residence your own! $499,900
Call Bill Rothstein 800-745-5988 • 443-280-2530 montegobayrealty@aol.com
W ! NETING S LI
138 CLAM SHELL RD MONTEGO BAY OCEAN CITY
12905 Coastal Hwy • Ocean City, MD www.montegobayrealty.com
Only 2 blocks to the beach! Less than a block to the community amenities, multiple restaurants/bars, shopping and the bus stop. This 3 bed/2 bath home is located on a canal in the highly sought after community of Montego Bay in North OC. Home features a private dock/pier/2 boat slips and a boatlift. The home has upgraded kitchen, bathrooms, flooring, and it is being sold fully furnished. Community amenities include 2 inground swimming pools, 1 kiddie pool, 2 tennis courts, pickle ball courts, a shuffleboard court, a 9 hole mini-golf course, a bayfront boardwalk with 3 fishing/crabbing piers, and an 8 acre wildlife sanctuary that has a pond with a blacktop walking/jogging path...all for a low HOA fee of $415.00 a year!!
NOW $689,900 Call Bill Rothstein 800-745-5988 • 443-280-2530 montegobayrealty@aol.com
REDUCED $40K
13009 ATLANTIC BLVD MONTEGO BAY OCEAN CITY
12905 Coastal Hwy • Ocean City, MD www.montegobayrealty.com
OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 78
AUGUST 28, 2026
Road inspection costs shifted to developers Worcester County adopts new policy requiring fees, construction guarantees By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Aug. 28, 2026) Worcester County is closing a public works policy gap that left taxpayers on the hook for the cost of testing and inspecting developer-built roads. The county already requires developers to cover testing and inspection costs for water and sewer construction. However, that had not been the case for roads, even when they were part of the same overall project. A new Consolidated Public Works Agreement approved by the Worcester County Commissioners last week extends those inspection cost provisions to road work. It also requires developers to guarantee their road construction for two years. “They don’t do that for roads, so roads staff goes out and does this at the county’s expense,” Public Works Director Dallas Baker told the commissioners at their Aug. 18 meeting. Until now, Public Works had no formal mechanism to recover county dollars spent on permitting, testing,
and inspecting roads built through road agreement lacked those requireprivate development. ments or how long the arrangement Baker said the county cannot calcu- had been in place because the doculate how much it absorbed because em- ment was already in use when he ployees did not track their time by joined the county in May 2021. project. “It just didn’t make sense that our Road construction also had no de- Roads Division did not have an infined warranty period. Once the county spection fee nor a warranty period for accepted a road, taxdevelopment work payers became rewhen our Water & sponsible if ‘Roads, once it’s accepted by Wastewater Diviconstruction defi- the county, it’s ours. Regardless sion did,” Baker ciencies appeared six of whether or not six months wrote in response to months or a year questions. down the road or a year down later. Under the new the road the construction “Roads, once it’s agreement, develaccepted by the deficiencies start showing up, opers must deposit county, it’s ours,” then it’s on the county’s cost at least $3,500, or Baker said. “Regard7.5% of the engito go in and fix something less of whether or not neer’s construction that we just built’ six months down the estimate, into an esroad or a year down crow account. PubDallas Baker, the road the conlic Works will Public Works Director struction deficiencies deduct its actual start showing up, oversight expenses then it’s on the county’s cost to go in and return any unused money when and fix something that we just built.” the project is complete. Baker said Public Works had spent Developers also must provide a several years developing this updated performance guarantee equal to 125% agreement and that no single project, of the estimated construction cost and expense, or enforcement issue a maintenance guarantee equal to prompted the change. 50% during the two-year warranty peHe could not explain why the old riod. Similar requirements already
applied to water and sewer projects. The agreement also gives the county clearer authority to stop work, require developers to correct deficiencies, and recover its costs. Until a road is formally accepted, developers will be responsible for keeping traffic moving and addressing snow, ice, debris, and defects. At the same time, the change simplifies part of the development process by replacing separate road and water and sewer agreements with one document. It also consolidates two bonds into one. Baker said one developer had complained that his bank charged a fee to issue each guarantee, meaning he was charged twice for the same project. Only four of the seven commissioners attended the Aug. 18 meeting. They approved the 11-page agreement unanimously and without discussion. The new requirements apply only to projects submitted after the commissioners’ vote. Projects that had already entered the county’s Technical Review Committee process will remain under the previous agreements. Baker estimated that fewer than 10 projects a year will be subject to the agreement, depending on the pace of development.
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AUGUST 28, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
Casino employees, owner reach agreement 2025, weeks before the previous con- tive pay has not yet been issued betract was set to expire. By early June, cause Churchill Downs is awaiting the two sides had met about 16 times, final signatures, Lingo said. She exwith union members working under pects the contract to be signed by the a contract extension. end of the week. Wages were the main point of conThe agreement covers roughly 100 tention. Union members rejected an hourly employees, including barearlier offer in May tenders, cooks, before continuing dishwashers, cleannegotiations through ‘I really feel profoundly proud ing workers, slot atthe summer. They of our members for voting down tendants, casino ratified the contract hosts, and cage that offer and continuing Aug. 1 following a cashiers. to stand up for what they felt two-day vote. It also provides like they deserved.’ The four-year ratification bonuses agreement gives ranging from $500 Local 7 President union members 5% to $2,000 based on Tracy Lingo pay increases in years of service, two each of the next additional paid days three years, starting in October. off for employees with at least six It also provides an 8% raise years of service, and fewer blackout retroactive to Oct. 16, 2025. Retroac- dates for covered workers. Table-games dealers are not covered by the agreement and have been separately seeking union representation. Lingo called that “a separate issue.” “We continue to ask the company to respect the people’s right to organize,” she said. Union workers also retained full gratuities charged to customers at banquet events. Lingo said Churchill Downs had sought to replace those 29th Street on Coastal Hwy., Oceanside gratuities with fixed payments to
By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Aug. 28, 2026) Unionized workers at Ocean Downs Casino have ratified a new four-year contract with Churchill Downs Inc., ending months of negotiations during which union leaders had raised the possibility of a strike. The agreement will lift the casino’s lowest-paid workers above $18 an hour by October and guarantee all non-tipped union employees at least $20 an hour by the contract’s end, Unite Here Local 7 President Tracy Lingo said Wednesday. “It was a long fight, but I think it was a fight that was worth it,” Lingo said. “I’m proud those are jobs people can count on year-round for a living wage and benefits.” Negotiations began in September
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OC Today-Dispatch
Berlin administrator reflects on retirement Longtime town official set to step down this October, HR director also departing By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Aug. 27, 2026) After 35 years with Berlin, longtime employee and current town administrator Mary Bohlen publicly announced her retirement this week, saying goodbye to the community she’s served for over three decades. At Monday night’s Town Council meetMary Bohlen ing, Bohlen shared remarks regarding her retirement, noting her official last day will be Oct. 9. “It has been both a pleasure and a privilege to serve this community, and making the decision to retire has been a difficult one,” she said. Bohlen added that she’s proud of her accomplishments during her tenure with the municipality, as well as her role in “building a strong foundation for Berlin’s future.” Bohlen is a Salisbury resident who first came to Berlin in 1991 at just 25 years old. She began working in Town Hall’s front office answering phones
and ringing up utility customers. She continued to rise through the ranks, securing various roles such as grants administrator, special projects administrator, deputy town administrator, and, since August 2022, town administrator. Bohlen succeeded former town administrator Jeff Fleetwood. On Monday night, Bohlen said that she will “always be proud to have been a part of this community and its story.” Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall expressed his gratitude to the outgoing administrator and her almost four decades with the town. Tyndall said Bohlen’s commitment to Berlin is evident in her work and in how she rose to become a senior municipal employee. “When you say you’re proud to be part of its story, I think you write a portion of your story yourself starting as someone working in customer service and admin and working your way all the way up to the top paid professional in the Town of Berlin,” Tyndall said. “I remember when you and I sat down, and we had a vacancy in the town administrator position … and I said, ‘Mary, you’ve got a lot of institutional knowledge … have you ever considered it?’ ... You accepted my request to serve in this capacity, and it's been an honor to work together. You’re
amazing at what you do.” The Berlin Town Council also thanked Bohlen this week. “Mary, I want to say thank you for your many, many years dedicated to service to the town,” Councilman Jay Knerr remarked. While she did not offer any comments at this week’s Town Council meeting, the town’s human resources director, Kelsey Jensen, also announced her departure from the municipality earlier this month. Jensen confirmed in an email to the Bayside Gazette last week that her official last day will be Nov. 13. Jensen 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 and initially worked as a courtroom clerk for the Circuit Court of Worcester County. Jensen came to Berlin in 2016 for an administrative job. Later, she started training to earn certification as a municipal clerk and eventually took over as Berlin’s director of human resources. “The employees of the town mean a great deal to me, and I will miss working with each and every one of them,” Jensen said in an email to the Bayside Gazette last week. “The kindness and appreciation they, along with many residents and business owners, have shown since I announced my resignation has been incredibly heartwarming and has reminded me that I made a meaningful difference during my time here.”
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OC Today-Dispatch
AUGUST 28, 2026
Worcester school board touts MCAP results Student successes charted in third-grade math and English state testing results By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Aug. 28, 2026) Worcester County students outperformed their peers statewide on the 2025-2026 Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program, with strong results in both English Language Arts (ELA) and mathematics. During Tuesday’s Board of Education meeting, Worcester County Public Schools Coordinator of Accountability and Assessment Jennifer McDowell and Coordinator of Research and Student Assessment Thomas Hamill reviewed the latest MCAP results and discussed how the data is being used to identify areas for improvement and ways to provide further educational support to students. According to Hamill, a trend seen each year persists: strong ELA and math performance in third grade, followed by a dip in fifth grade. “This is a trend we have recognized,” Hamill told the board. “It is not a trend that is unique to us, but it is still something that concerns us every time we have a conversation about the data.” He noted that while proficiency
scores in ELA improve quickly, recov- strating proficiency. Carroll County ery in math is slower. The school sys- ranked second at 67.5%. tem continues to brainstorm reasons Hamill said that while Worcester for the decline and identify ways to consistently ranks first or second in the prevent it. state by grade level, fifth-grade perHamill said that in ELA, district formance remains a concern. performance remained steady overall, The district also ranked first overall with eighth grade showing significant in mathematics and in several gradegrowth over the prior year. The per- level comparisons, including grades centage of eighth graders demonstrat- three and four. ing proficiency increased from 68.9% In third-grade math, Worcester’s to 75.8%, a gain of nearly seven per- proficiency rate was 10 percentage centage points. points higher than Math results flucCarroll County’s, ‘This is a trend we have tuated year to year, while its seventhbut Hamill high- recognized. It is not a trend that grade performance lighted particularly is unique to us, but it is still was 12.5 percentage strong gains in third, points higher than something that concerns us St. Mary’s County. seventh, and eighth every time we have a grades. “We are doing Worcester’s math conversation about the data.’ something in math scores have also imthat is yielding some Thomas Hamill, proved significantly fantastic results,” Coordinator of Research and Hamill said. over a longer period, Student Assessment Hamill said. Since Worcester also 2022, the district performed well on has seen a 16.5-perscience and social centage-point increase in math per- studies assessments. While fifth-grade formance. science proficiency was 37.5%, that reThe data presented Tuesday sult still placed the district in the top showed that WCPS students continue half of Maryland. Eighth-grade science to outperform their peers across Mary- proficiency was 51.1%, the highest rate land. in the state. The county school system ranked According to Hamill, the district first in Maryland in overall ELA profi- takes an aggressive approach to retestciency, with 69.9% of students demon- ing high school students who do not
initially demonstrate proficiency. Hamill said Worcester may rank around 10th or 11th in some ELA 10 comparisons in part because the district retests students at a higher rate than other systems. While only 39% of repeat test takers passed ELA 10, Hamill noted that those results represent around 12 students who previously had not demonstrated proficiency and were able to do so on a second attempt. “We are so aggressive with retesting,” Hamill said. He added that the district also saw gains among both first-time and repeat test takers in Algebra I. WCPS officials said MCAP results are used for more than simply comparing Worcester with other school systems. Hamill said the district has begun focusing on students who are near the proficiency threshold. With a proficiency score of 750, students scoring around 740 or higher are considered “bubble kids” who may be close enough to passing that targeted intervention could make a difference. A student who scores 749, for example, could score above or below the proficiency threshold if given the test on another day because of the test’s margin of error, Hamill said. Worcester is using that information to identify students who could benefit
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OC Today-Dispatch
AUGUST 28, 2026
PAGE 83
MSTAR testing coming in 2027 from Tier 2 supports, which are targeted interventions designed to provide an additional push toward proficiency. “We want to identify those kids right at the edge,” Hamill said. Officials also examine performance on individual assessment standards. McDowell said Worcester students generally perform above state averages across the standards being assessed. When a school performs above district and state averages, officials can examine which instructional strategies contributed to that success and decide what to continue. When performance falls below the district average, educators can identify the standards needing additional attention and consider different ways to teach and assess those concepts. The district will soon transition to a new state assessment system this school year. Maryland is moving from MCAP to the Maryland System of Testing Academic Readiness, or MSTAR. During the 2026-27 school year, MSTAR will be used for ELA assessments in grades three through eight. High school ELA and math, along with science and social studies assessments, will continue under the existing MCAP system for now. All assessments are expected to
transition to the MSTAR format by the 2027-28 school year. McDowell said the new assessments will use a multistage adaptive format for both ELA and math. Students will begin with the same questions, then be directed to different sets based on their performance. The new format is also expected to shorten testing time. Math assessments in grades three through eight will decrease from four 40-minute sections to three, while ELA assessments will decrease from four 70-minute sections to three. The new system will also provide a more universally designed testing experience, allowing students with accommodations to participate in the adaptive format rather than receiving a fixed test form. Other changes include an expanded item bank, which officials said will provide more precise scores, better information about student growth, and faster reporting. McDowell said the district expects to receive results for grades three through eight within 28 days of testing after the first year of implementation. The new platform will also give teachers direct access to student assessment results and create a parent portal so families can view their students’ scores.
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OC Today-Dispatch
AUGUST 28, 2026
County schools review four-year action plan Strategy leans into knowing students’ individual needs, preparing career pathways
empowered to learn, lead and suc- to all members of the school system, ceed.” including administrators, teachers, The board also adopted five core parents, and outside agencies. values — community, respect, excelThe plan establishes four overarlence, growth, and creativity — based ching goals: student success and fuBy Tara Fischer on feedback from over 1,100 school ture readiness; belonging and Staff Writer system stakeholdwell-being; staff (Aug. 27, 2026) The Worcester ers. Officials said and organizational County Board of Education last the values reflect excellence; and ‘This goal emphasizes week received an overview of the the culture the comcommunication and transparent, meaningful school system’s new strategic plan munity wants to collaboration. that will guide Worcester County build throughout its Under the stucommunication and Public Schools’ priorities through classrooms and dent success and fuopportunities for our 2030. schools. stakeholders and community ture readiness goal, The 2026-2030 plan, entitled Matthew Record, WCPS will focus on partners to remain actively “Learn, Lead and Succeed,” ensures chief safety and acacademic growth connected to our work every student is “known, supported, ademic officer, said while preparing stuchallenged and prepared for the fu- school safety is a dents for a variety in our schools.’ ture,” said WCPS Coordinator of Pub- foundational comof paths after gradInterim Chief lic Relations Carrie Sterrs. ponent of the entire uation, including Academic Officer As part of the new strategic strategic plan rather higher education, Jennifer Sills framework, the school board than a goal limited military service, adopted a new mission and vision. to one area. and careers. The mission states, “In Worcester “Safety is founKey performance County, we know every student by dational and is all encompassing in indicators include increasing the pername, strength and need.” The vi- all areas of our strategic direction,” centage of students demonstrating sion reads, “WCPS is a school com- Record said. readiness on the kindergarten readimunity where every student is He added that responsibility falls ness assessment and increasing the percentage of third-grade students demonstrating reading proficiency on the Maryland State Assessment. Additional measures will track mathematics achievement in third Sashas Jewels On Your Mind? and eighth grades as well as college …Weeks?…Months?…Years?… and career readiness at the high
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school level. Record said the measures are intended to serve as milestones rather than the sole definition of student success. The second goal, belonging and well-being, focuses on ensuring students feel safe, supported, and connected to their schools. Under the new plan, WCPS will seek to decrease chronic absenteeism, ensure the risk ratio for exclusionary discipline remains below the state’s threshold for disproportionality, and increase the percentage of students who report favorable opinions of school safety through the Maryland School Survey. According to Jennifer Sills, interim chief academic officer, the third goal, staff and organizational excellence, recognizes that student success depends on having strong employees and systems in place to support them. The goal includes attracting, developing, and retaining high-quality staff while guaranteeing the school system operates efficiently and responsibly. Among the indicators are increasing the percentage of teachers and administrators trained in the science of reading, increasing staff attendance, increasing the percentage of teachers of color hired into teaching and leadership positions, and increasing the percentage of professional staff with a master’s degree or higher. The plan also calls for maintaining or increasing the number of schools earning a satisfactory grade on the WCPS Health and Wellness Action Plan Assessment and ensuring the annual financial statement audit is completed in a timely manner with an unqualified opinion. The final goal focuses on communication and collaboration between the school system, families, and the broader Worcester County community. Sills said strong relationships and trust were consistent themes in feedback gathered during the strategic planning process. “This goal emphasizes transparent, meaningful communication and opportunities for our stakeholders and community partners to remain actively connected to our work in our schools,” she said. WCPS will measure progress by tracking satisfaction with district and school communications through its annual family survey. The plan also requires each school to maintain a crisis communication plan as part of its annual emergency planning documents, aligned with the school system’s Standard Response Protocol. Sills said the strategic plan was also developed to align with the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. The four local goals connect across all five of the Blueprint’s pillars, she said.
OC Today-Dispatch
AUGUST 28, 2026
PAGE 85
Opt-out fees pitched for Berlin smart meters By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Aug. 28, 2026) Berlin’s proposed fees for customers who opt out of smart meters and use of the town’s electric vehicle charging station were the subject of a Maryland Public Service Commission hearing Monday night as the town seeks approval to implement the charges. Before the Berlin Town Council’s regular meeting this week, representatives of the Maryland Public Service Commis-
sion held a hearing on the municipality’s request to establish opt-out charges for Berlin electric customers who choose to forgo new Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) and retain the existing system. While the council approved an AMI opt-out policy in March, the commission must approve the fees associated with that policy. The agency will consider comments from Monday’s hearing before authorizing the fees.
REAL ESTATE REPORT
Tenants’ rights a priority for new state oversight agency By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer (Aug. 28, 2026) Maryland has a new Office of Tenant and Landlord Affairs (OTLA), created by the Renters’ Rights and Stabilization Act of 2024. This new branch under the Department of Housing and Community Development helps tenants and landlords navigate their rights and responsibilities under federal and state renter laws. Each year, the office releases a Maryland Tenants’ Bill of Rights. This document summarizes tenant rights and protections, and must be attached to leases by landlords. OTLA also manages Maryland’s Right of First Refusal law, which requires certain rental property owners to provide tenants the first chance to buy the property before the owner can sell to a third party. The OTLA is also responsible for coordinating and staffing the Access to Counsel in Evictions Task Force, analyzing eviction data from the District Court of Maryland, and producing an annual report on evictions. For landlords, property managers, and Realtors, the OTLA can: • Provide education on the Tenant Bill of Rights and Right of First Refusal
requirements you must follow under state law • Provide guidance to property owners on submitting required documentation when they sell a rental property subject to Right of First Refusal law For tenants, the OTLA can help: • Understand and exercise your rights if you are having a dispute with your landlord or lease that cannot be resolved directly • Help you report discrimination by your landlord or another violation of federal, state, or local renter laws to the right enforcement agency • Connect to a legal services agency that can provide legal advice or representation for an eviction case, voucher or subsidy termination, rent escrow case, or other dispute with your landlord or rental unit • Connect to DHCD and HUD-approved housing counseling programs to improve your credit, start the process of becoming a homeowner, or support you in submitting a purchase offer to buy your rental unit under Right of First Refusal • Connect to your local housing code enforcement office to report housing quality issues with your unit Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record for Keller Williams Realty Delmarva in Ocean City, MD.
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According to Town Administrator Mary Bohlen, the municipality intends to charge those who decline the AMI system a one-time fee of $50, payable over three installments, as well as a monthly $17 fee. Bohlen said the charges would recover costs associated with servicing customers who wish to keep the old metering system. AMI allows town staff to read the meters remotely, while the outdated infrastructure would need to be read manually. The proposed tariffs are based on what other Maryland utilities charge, Bohlen noted. Delmarva Power, for instance, has imposed a $17 monthly fee and a one-time payment of $75. “When a customer opts out of AMI meters, the meter needs to be read manually, which incurs additional costs,” Bohlen said. “The recommended fees ensure these costs are recovered from customers who opt out rather than other electric customers.” The town’s fee recommendations drew concerns from resident Bartosz Rafi ski. Rafi ski said Berlin should conduct a comprehensive study to evaluate whether the $17 recurring fee is appropriate. The resident said he believes the monthly payment should be lower. “I think some very simple math illustrates it’s an overcharge,” he said. Rafi ski added that the comparison
to Delmarva Power is inequitable, as the company serves a much larger customer base than the Town of Berlin. “Delmarva Power operates over 5,000 square miles,” he said. “… Berlin is a compact system concentrated in only a few square miles … That matters because one justification for this fee is to recover expenses associated with opting out of AMI meters, since someone has to travel to the meter to read it physically. Given how small Berlin is, Berlin electric [staff] should absolutely be capable of reading six to ten homes in less than an hour.” Berlin does not expect many homeowners to refuse the AMI systems. Town staff said in March that at that time, only six residents had turned down the advanced infrastructure. Monday’s public hearing also addressed the town’s proposed fees for using the municipality-leased electric vehicle charging station at 25 Commerce Street. The town is asking the Maryland Public Service Commission for approval to charge users 18 cents per kilowatthour for level two charging and 34 cents per kilowatt-hour for direct current fast charging. The Public Service Commission will accept written comments until Aug. 28 on opt-out charges and EV charging fees. Individuals can submit their statements online at psc.maryland.gov.
Opinions
Aug. 28, 2026
Page 86
Beach worthy of joint investment Ocean City’s beach is certainly its greatest tourism asset, but its importance extends well beyond providing a place for millions of visitors to spend summer days. The beach is also critical infrastructure. For more than three decades, Ocean City’s beach replenishment program has provided a vital line of defense against coastal storms, flooding, erosion and damaging wave action. The wide beach, dune system and seawall protecting the Boardwalk work together as a massive storm-protection system. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers estimates the project has prevented roughly $927 million in storm damage since its completion in the early 1990s. That figure alone demonstrates why maintaining the project — and providing the funding necessary to do so — is essential. The recently secured $20 million in federal funding for another replenishment cycle is welcome news. But beach replenishment cannot be viewed as a one-time expense. Sand moves. Beaches erode. Storms take their toll. Replenishment must occur periodically if the protection system is going to continue performing as designed. One of the strengths of Ocean City’s program has always been the partnership behind it. The federal government, State of Maryland, Worcester County and Town of Ocean City have each played important roles in keeping the project moving forward. Under the longstanding cost-sharing arrangement, the federal government pays 53% of periodic replenishment costs, while the state, county and Ocean City divide the non-federal share. That partnership must remain strong. There will always be competing demands for public dollars, but beach replenishment should be viewed as an investment rather than an expense. Ocean City is one of Maryland’s most important tourism and economic engines, supporting businesses, jobs and significant tax revenues while attracting millions of visitors. Protecting that investment requires long-term planning. The replenishment cycle works. The partnership works. The priority now must be ensuring adequate funding remains available so both can continue.
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
Ballot’s in the mail
Oh, great. The U.S. Supine Court will allow the U.S. Postal Service, which once made my electric bill payment three months late by routing my check through the East Oblivion distribution center, to maintain lists of each state’s citizens who are eligible to vote by mail. The above is a run-on sentence, and I don’t care, because I am more than a little peeved that the very same federal government that has By never conducted a completely Stewart accurate census suddenly proposes to produce a perfect acDobson counting of every citizen in every town who is 18 years of age or older. Don’t misunderstand what I’m saying and conclude that I’m picking on Postal Service personnel, because I’m not. I’m merely observing that the chances that the federal government will do this job correctly are roughly the same as my being able to teach my dog Basic Seamanship. I’ll tell our dog trainer, “My dog, Little Big Man, is so dumb that no matter how many times I show him, he still can’t tie a square knot. I even tried to start him off easy with a half-hitch, and he couldn’t even do that.” “Well,” she said, “there’s a very obvious reason for that.” “Which is?”
“Try tying your shoes with your knuckles and get back to me,” she said. She has a point. It’s not that the Postal Service is unwilling to take on this task, but it lacks thumbs, metaphorically speaking, and therefore is not equipped to do the job. But as I mentioned previously, I am not disparaging the good people of the U.S. Postal Service, and certainly not the letter carriers who have been yapped at for years now, including by my dogs from time to time. I’m also not worried that they won’t try to do the job correctly; I’m concerned that things will go wrong somewhere in the postal chain of events. I mean, where exactly did our check to the printing company go for three weeks? For all I know, our payment spent some time vacationing in the islands before it arrived at its intended destination. Here’s another thing: since I have accidently received my neighbor’s electric bill before (and just held onto it for fun to see what would happen ... just kidding), it is conceivable that I could receive my ballot and his ballot. Does this mean I could vote twice? Of course, maybe I’m making a big deal out of nothing (I’m sure someone will hasten to tell me if I am) and maybe the worst-case scenario isn’t that bad. I guess we’ll find out. If this thing does happen, there’s a possibility that after November’s election, some of us might receive a “Thanks for Voting, Trying to Vote” message ... in April.
Have an opinion? We invite you to share it, but all letters are subject to verification, so please include your name and phone number. All letters are subject to editing for space and to protect the author and this newspaper from legal action. Email letters to editor@octodaydispatch.com. For questions, call 410-723-6397.
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Between the Lines By Steve Green
An Anne Arundel County judge was right to stop Maryland’s redistricting referendum from going before voters this November — even if the decision is not yet final and will now face review by the Maryland Supreme Court. Circuit Court Judge Robert Thompson found the state did not follow election law, saying, “The legislature itself must follow the means and methods those laws describe when it chooses to refer a ballot question to a vote by the citizens at a general election.” At its core, this redistricting push looks like exactly what it is: an attempt to turn Maryland’s current 7-1 Democratic congressional delegation into an 8-0 sweep. That may be good politics for Democrats in Annapolis. It would not be good government, and it certainly would not be good for the Eastern Shore. The Shore is different from the state’s population centers across the Chesapeake Bay. Agriculture, commercial fishing, tourism, coastal concerns, small businesses and rural communities are not side issues here. They define our economy and our way of life. The 1st Congressional District gives those interests a recognizable voice in Washington. Redrawing the map to dilute the Shore’s influence by attaching portions of the region to more heavily populated areas across the Bay would make an already familiar problem worse: Maryland’s rural counties being overwhelmed politically by the Baltimore-Washington corridor. This should not be about whether voters like or dislike Republican Congressman Andy Harris. Representatives come and go, and it’s true Harris can be a polarizing individual even for conservatives. Congressional maps have consequences that extend well beyond any one politician, however. There is also a basic fairness test worth applying. If Republicans controlled Maryland and were manipulating congressional boundaries in pursuit of an 8-0 Republican delegation, Democrats would rightly call it partisan gerrymandering. The standard should not change depending on which party holds the pen. The legal battle is not finished. The state is appealing, and Maryland’s highest court will have its say. My guess is the state’s high court may see the matter in a different way, and Maryland Democratic leaders seem confident they will get their way based on public comments. But for now, hitting the brakes was the right call. The Eastern Shore already fights for its voice in Annapolis. Maryland should not intentionally make that voice weaker in Washington, too. *** It’s unclear at this point if Worcester County stands to get any money out of the deal, but Maryland will receive $327 million from Meta as part of a $17 billion settlement reached this week. It’s more of a national story than local at this point, but the settlement agreement calls for some specific changes the owner of Instagram and Facebook must make. Some of the new restrictions that will eventually be put in place will be a two-hour daily limit for children ages 13-17 for social media use (parents can override the limit if they choose); a block from midnight to 6 a.m.; a ban on push notifications during typical school hours; boosted requirements on age verification; and required enforcement auditing to ensure the company is complying with the terms of the settlement. It’s a fascinating settlement because it essentially confirms Meta accepts accountability for the wellbeing of children. Next up could be similar requirements for other social media companies like TikTok, Snapchat and YouTube. *** Senator Chris Van Hollen had some high visibility in the area this month, including ceremonial check presentations to the Town of Berlin for its community center project as well as a beach replenishment funding announcement. Van Hollen also stopped in Diakonia to confirm his support for continued funding for the campus project the nonprofit is leading. Van Hollen was also in the news last weekend after remarks he made about a potential presidential run. It’s widely acknowledged after his re-election this fall that Gov. Wes Moore will begin pivoting toward a presidential campaign. Therefore, it was a mild surprise to learn the two-term senator – who replaced Barbara Mikulski in 2022 – is serious about presidential aspirations. Van Hollen’s six-year term is up in 2028 so he acknowledged on NBC’s Meet The Press, “I am kicking the tires, testing the waters” on a run at president in 2028. For what it’s worth, the last Marylander to run for president was twoterm Gov. Martin O’Malley, who sought the presidential nomination in 2016 but bowed out after the Iowa caucuses confirmed Hillary Clinton as the Democratic Party’s choice.
Letters to the editor League hosts successful Artists Paint OC festival Editor, The Art League of Ocean City’s 21st Annual “Artists Paint OC” plein air festival and competition August 12-16 was a great coming together of art and community. Thank you to the 48 professional artists and 30 Quick Paint artists who spread out around the area for five days and created over 200 paintings of our iconic local landscapes. And thank you to the 300 youth ages 6-17 who painted “en plein air” during the month to be part of our 4th Annual “Kids Paint OC” program. Our gratitude goes out to judge Kevin Fitzgerald, who awarded prizes to our winning artists and also donated a painting he created for an Art League fundraising raffle. Also, thank you to Evan Fitzgerald for judging the Quick Paint competition. And our heart goes out to our festival sponsors who provided over $10,000 in cash prizes for the artists and demonstrated their appreciation for the arts. We extend our deepest thanks to the Peter Glenville Foundation and PNC Bank for supporting us at our highest level as Ocean Sponsors. We truly appreciate the generosity of our sponsors for the 2026 Artists Paint OC Festival (August 12–16): Agriculture Families, Beach to Bay Heritage Area, Marian Bickerstaff, Ed & Emmy Challenger, Crystal Collins, Reese Cropper III, Linda Guerrieri, Laura Jenkins, Berta Maginniss, Mid Atlantic Plein Air Painters Association, Mr. & Mrs. Charles Nichols, OCMD Hospitality Association, Ginny Outten, Shore United Bank, John Sisson, and Town of Ocean City. Thank you to our Quick Paint
sponsor, Ocean City Development Corp., who has supported us for many years, and to John Sisson the sponsor of our Kids Paint OC competition. We also appreciate the support of the Island Creamery and Freeman Arts. Another big thank you to the art lovers and art collectors who came out to support the artists and purchase their work during the Wet Paint Sales. The best of the plein air paintings will be on display and available for purchase at the Ocean City Center for the Arts on 94th St. bayside through September. The raffle for the painting continues until the drawing on Sept. 30. Laura Jenkins Virginia Outten Rina Thaler (Jenkins and Outten are co-chairs of Artists Paint OC, and Thaler is executive director, Art League of Ocean City.)
“Make Berlin Uncool” signage misses the mark
Editor, This letter is only directed to the person and/or persons who have placed signs around Berlin saying. “Make Berlin Uncool Again.” The sign makes a “play” on the award Berlin received as “America’s Coolest Small Town” by Budget Travel in 2014. However, the implication as I see it, is that these persons feel the town has grown and become too busy for their taste. No matter their reasoning, I feel the sign is offensive to many, who have worked to bring Berlin out of the doldrums from the early 1980’s. In the era, most of the long time retailContinued on Page 88
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Continued from Page 87 ers including grocery, hardware, clothing, etc., had left town leaving primarily vacant buildings or offices. Offices do not stimulate the commerce of towns therefore retail was needed. Another major issue in those years, was the condition of much of the buildings which had become somewhat dilapidated or run down. When you consider the huge capital expenditures that was made to rehabilitate the buildings and the effort to bring new ideas to town including festivals etc, it’s a slap in their faces to have a sign saying, “Make Berlin Uncool Again.” I hope this motto goes away. Instead, thank the numerous people that gave their dedication to revive what was once a dying town. They have kept the historic value, revived the local spirit and I applaud all those people, as well as the newcomers. At least be considerate of their success, even if you preferred living in a ghost town of “uncool” squaller, as Berlin used to be. Reese Cropper, III Ocean City
Harris could support Md.’s coastal bays better
Editor, If Congressman Andy Harris really wanted to help the Chesapeake Bay and the Maryland Coastal Bays communities he could advocate for restricting the harvest of menhaden. Menhaden are harvested by a Virginia-based company Omega Protein, with connection to a Canadian corporation Cooke Inc., and used to manu-
facture fish oil. The importance to Maryland waters is that menhaden is a food source for rockfish, tuna, whales, dolphins, osprey and eagles. The Department of Natural Resources has been forced to shorten the rockfish season because of declining populations, and conservation groups have reported eagle and osprey chicks dying from starvation. Meanwhile, Omega Protein continues to take menhaden at an alarmingly high rate and the menhaden population has fallen 37% since 2022. Conservationists say that the limit should be cut by 50% To expect the Trump administration to support an environmental regulation may be a stretch, but this could fit right in. Trump’s petulant Canadian tariffs would give him an excuse. His Justice Department, which is bound and determined to be his judicial weapon against perceived enemies (such as Canada, a country that has been “ripping off the United States of America for years”), would be inclined to agree. There’s a hitch: Omega Proteins has directed a significant portion of its state-level political donations over the years to conservative and Republican groups, such as the Virginia Senate Republican Caucus and individual Republican general assembly candidates, according to the Virginia Public Access Project. Congressman Harris could protect the fisheries in his district, but maybe at the cost of donations to Republican legislators in Virginia. This is the test: Which comes first, constituents or the Republican party? Ronald Pilling Bishopville
Mail your letter to editor@octodaydispatch.com All letters are subject to editing for clarity and potentially libelous material
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OC firefighters “all in” at IAFF event in Texas Annual conference includes special appearance by U.S. Labor Dept. representative (Aug. 28, 2026) Leaders from Ocean City Firefighters and Paramedics, IAFF Local 4269, recently traveled to Arlington, Texas, to represent Ocean City at the 58th Convention of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF). Held every two years, the IAFF Convention brings together firefighters and union leaders from across the United States and Canada to address issues affecting the fire service and the communities they serve. This year’s theme, “All In,” centered on solidarity, advocacy and strengthening the future of the fire service. “Attending the IAFF Convention gives our Local a seat at the table as decisions are made that impact firefighters across North America,” said IAFF Local 4269 President Rancel Evans. “We come home better informed, better connected and with new ideas that ultimately help us advocate for our members and continue providing the highest level of service to Ocean City.” Throughout the convention, delegates discussed firefighter safety, staffing, overtime protections, collective bargaining, occupational cancer
and exposure risks, PPE, emerging cancer-screening technologies and continued investment in independent research designed specifically around the health and safety of firefighters and their families. Among the convention’s featured speakers was Sara Nelson, International President of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, who represents approximately 55,000 flight attendants at 20 airlines. Nelson reflected on September 11 and other aviation tragedies that have brought flight attendants and firefighters together during some of their most difficult moments. Twenty-five years after 9/11, her message centered on the shared commitment to honor those lost and never forget. “Being together with our brothers and sisters from across North America is essential,” said IAFF Local 4269 President Emeritus Ryan Whittington. “Our communities may be different, but the challenges facing firefighters and paramedics are remarkably similar. We learn from each other, share what is working and bring those ideas home. Having President Nelson with us was especially powerful. There is a unique bond between firefighters and flight attendants, and her message about September 11 and our responsibility to never forget was something I will always remember.”
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local President Rancel Evans, IAFF Local President Emeritus Ryan Whittington and acting U.S. Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling are pictured.
The convention also welcomed Acting U.S. Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling, who addressed delegates alongside Department of Labor Inspector General Anthony D’Esposito. Their remarks focused on workplace safety, overtime protections and the Department of Labor’s continued efforts alongside the IAFF. As delegates returned home, IAFF General President Edward A. Kelly emphasized that the conclusion of the
marks the beginning of carrying its work back to local unions and communities. For Local 4269, that work now returns to Ocean City. “All In is more than a convention theme,” Evans said. “It means standing together, continuing to improve our profession and making sure the voices of the firefighters and paramedics serving Ocean City are heard at every level.”
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ANGELS IN OILSKINS Earlier this month, the Ocean City Museum Society celebrated the country’s 250th anniversary, along with the 236th anniversary of the U.S. Coast Guard, with an “Angels in Oilskins” event at the south end of the Boardwalk. The festival featured interactive exhibits and demonstrations highlighting maritime heritage and the early days of the life-saving service, while the Tolly Jars played sea shanties in the background. BETHANY HOOPER/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
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OBITUARIES JOHN F. FERRY III Ocean Pines On June 19, 2026, John Francis Ferry III passed away at the age of 38, leaving behind a mountain of memories and even more DVDs. John lived his life like an award-winning film that was full of heart, remarkable moments, and John F. Ferry III plenty of quotable dialogue. Like movies, he brought people together. Always the main character living life loudly, authentically, and entirely in the present moment, he embodied a perfect cross between two of his favorite actors, Tom Hanks and Robert De Niro. He demonstrated Hanks’s warmth with an infectious smile and hugs that made you feel like the center of the
universe. No one was friendlier than John, and no one stayed a stranger to him for long. Truly, to know him was to love him. He also had the stubbornness of a classic De Niro character. John was a master at holding his ground, insisting on a point, and frequently repeating himself. It was often pointless to argue with him, though; he was usually right. A natural-born entertainer, during his time at United Rehabilitation Services (URS) in Hazleton John commanded the spotlight in their annual Christmas and spring musicals. He also beamed his uplifting energy (no matter how off-key) in the URS chorale group, Our Proud Voices. True to his generous spirit, John’s final act was to be an organ donor, so he can continue to bring healing and Continued on Page 92
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Evening Strolls, Morning Bird Watching OBITUARIES comfort to others. MICHAEL FRANCIS HIGGINS John held his many co-stars Ocean City Summer in the Garden dearly. He leaves behind his mother, Michael “Mike” Higgins, beloved
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Paula Matus Ferry, his father John “Jack” Ferry Jr., and stepmother Cathy Gallagher. Siblings Maeve Shay and husband Ian Shay, Caitlin Ferry, and William Ferry. Niece Sawyer Shay. Beloved aunts and uncles, Scott Matus, Kathy Sweet, Karen Neglia, Jeffrey and Carmen Ferry, Michael and Marguerite Picucci, and Patrick and Colette Ferry. In addition to his many cousins and friends. Preceding him in death were his grandparents, John “Jack” Sr. and Mary Ferry and Paul and Dorothy Matus, and uncle, Frank Neglia (we can already hear the “DooDah”s). The family would also like to extend gratitude to the staff at Fresenius Kidney Care Bethlehem who served as John’s ultimate supporting cast. In his honor, the family asks that you live authentically, put on a great film, and give someone you love an unforgettable hug. A Celebration of Life was held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at the Cantelmi Long Funeral Home, 500 Linden Street, Bethlehem, PA 18018. A memory tribute may be placed at www.cantelmifuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Gift of Life, 401 North 3rd St. Philadelphia, PA 19123.
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husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on August 17, 2026, surrounded by his family. Born in 1944 in Independence, Iowa, to Don and Cora Higgins, Mike showed an early aptitude for learning. He mastered typing in Michael Higgins grade school, a skill that led to his assignment to the Pentagon during the Vietnam War. Following his service, Mike began a long career with IBM, where he worked until his retirement in 1992. He later spent more than 30 years in real estate. In 1983, Mike married Kathleen, the love of his life. Together they built a home in Ocean City, where they lived for more than 40 years. He is survived by his wife, Kathleen; his children, Michael Higgins Jr. of Louisville, Kentucky, and Kevin Sean Higgins of Woodbridge, Virginia; and his grandchildren, Michael III of Knoxville, Tennessee, Kaitlyn and Hailey Higgins of Woodbridge, Virginia, and Matthew Higgins of Louisville, Kentucky. Mike is also survived by his siblings Vince Higgins and Mary Breitbach of Iowa and Ron Higgins of Colorado. He was preceded in death by his brothers Thom Higgins and Sam Higgins. A devoted community member, Mike served for many years as treasurer of the Delmarva Irish American Club and especially enjoyed participating in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. A lifelong sports fan, he faithfully followed the Washington Redskins, Washington Capitals, and Washington Nationals, sharing that enthusiasm with family and friends. Mike and Kathleen had been preparing to move to Annapolis to be closer to family just weeks before his passing. Though that move did not come to be, his love and legacy remain deeply rooted in those he cherished. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Services will be held on Thursday, September 10, 2026, at St. Mary's Star of the Sea Church (208 S. Baltimore Avenue) in Ocean City. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m., and Mass will begin at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Mike's honor to St. Mary's Star of the Sea/Holy Savior Church, Ocean City, Maryland. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.
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Sports & Recreation
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF MIDATLANTIC
The local fishing team of the Boss Hogg, top left, caught the first-place tying white marlin in the MidAtlantic Tournament. The 80-pound beauty earned the boat $1.35 million based on it being in more added entry levels than the Lizanne of Cape May that took home $615,112. Above left, third place in the white marlin division went to the Reelville for its 78-pounder worth $602,317. Above right, it was the year of the blue marlin in this year’s tournament with more than 110 caught and released. The first-place 688-pounder is pictured caught by the Taylor Jean of Ocean City. The catch brought the team $1.47 million.
Hot blue marlin bite dominates MidAtlantic First-place white captures $1.35M, while 688-pound beast earns $1.47M prize (Aug. 28, 2026) The 35th MidAtlantic tournament ended last Friday, and it was indeed one that will be talked about for a long time. A tournament record field of 208 boats battled over five days for a share of the event’s new record purse of $6,756,020 breaking the previous milestones for both set in 2021. There was also a new record payout of $1,477,980 to the blue marlin winner breaking the previous record set in 2023. Though the white marlin
didn’t make as strong a showing in numbers as they have in previous years, the blue marlin were a completely different story. Of all the records set this year, by far the most impressive was the number of blue marlin caught. The 112 caught, including 107 released, shatters the previous record of 68 caught with 62 released set in 2019. Big eye tuna were noticeably scarce but several big Allison yellowfins filled the gap. You have to go back to 2021 for the last time an Allison yellowfin tuna over 172 pounds was weighed in the tournament. After the brutal thunderstorms and torrential rain during the evening of
Day Four, the On the tourney’s final day, 172 boats, including 66 in Cape May and 106 in Ocean City, headed offshore. Sea conditions remained quite sporty for most of the day and some boats picked away at white marlin with several catching three or more. The blue marlin bite dropped off a bit for the day after a torrid pace that saw 99 caught through the tournament’s first four days. On Day Five no billfish were weighed and although numerous tuna were weighed, none were able to break into the top three. Several dolphin were weighed and the first wahoo went up the scale as well. With no white marlin weighed on the final day, there was a tie for the
heaviest billfish in the category. Captain John Ball at the helm of Bob Mormile’s Cape May, New Jerseybased Lizanne weighed an 80pounder for angler Andy Levy on the fourth day. Robert Warder’s Boss Hogg from Ocean City with Captain Alex Beane at the wheel weighed his 80-pounder angler Paul Hannum caught earlier in the week on Tuessday. Although there was a tie Boss Hogg received $1,357,860 and Lizanne received $615,112 because of different levels of Calcutta (side bet) participation. Dale Plummer of Ocean City See LOCAL Page 94
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF MIDATLANTIC
There was a tie atop the tuna division at this year’s MidAtlantic with the Talkin Trash and Disciplined each boating and weighing in a 182 pounder. Above left, the Talkin Trash crew is pictured with its payday of $544,620 for its efforts in the tourney. The Taylor Jean team is pictured above right at the awards banquet last weekend at Sunset Grille with its take-home payday of $1.47 million for its 688-pound blue marlin. That’s $2,173 per pound for that beast.
Local boats claim top prizes in MidAtlantic Continued from Page 93 aboard his ReelVille finished in third place with the 78-pounder which Brian Plummer caught on the third day and received $602,317. The blue marlin category also remained unchanged after Friday. Ken Hager’s Taylor Jean based out of North Palm Beach, Florida with Captain Blaine Birch at the wheel held on to win the category with the 688pound billfish caught on Thursday by angler Dave McKendrick for which Taylor Jean received a record payout of $1,477,980. Peter Cherasia’s Rumson, New Jersey-based Shark Byte with Captain Rich Barrett on the bridge finished in second place with the 599-pounder Cherasia caught on Day Two and received $634,145. Mike Yocco’s MJ’s from Cape May, New Jersey took
third place with the 523-pounder angler Brandon Kape bested on Day Two and received $145,239. In the tuna division there was also a tie. Matthew Garabedian’s Palm Beach, Florida-based Disciplined with Captain Hayden Browning at the helm weighed a 182-pound Allison yellowfin tuna on Day Four for angler Ian Winslow. Chris Little of Ocean City aboard his Talkin’ Trash weighed a 182-pound Allison yellowfin tuna on day two for angler Dan Caiola. Payouts differ slightly since Talkin’ Trash caught their tuna earlier in the week so they received $544,620 and Disciplined won $495,926. Captain Charles Vanderbek put Kirk Kellog’s Palm Beach, Florida-based Following Seas into a third-place finish with the 126-pound big eye weighed on day two for angler Trip Manley and won
$196,124. The dolphin category saw a complete shake-up on the final day after Captain Travis Brown moved Travis Cantrell’s Reel Priority from Morehead City, North Carolina to the top of the leaderboard with a 33-pounder for angler Joe Freeberry and won $106,651. Second place went to Ocean City’s Nick Neary and Captain Lonnie Price aboard Lit Up for a 32-pounder and won $32,936. The third heaviest dolphin went to Jason Norton on Godzilla from Ocean City for the 30pounder Jake Freeman caught and was worth $16,468. Interestingly no wahoo was weighed until the final day of the tournament, when Captain Jonathon Cianciulli put Timothy Ryan’s Reel Blessed from Ocean City, New Jersey atop the leaderboard with a 58-pound
wahoo for angler Will Shorman that was worth $85,656. Second place went Mike Yocco’s MJs from Cape May, New Jersey with a 21-pounder for angler Brandon Kape and won $61,014. On Friday night award ceremonies were held at Canyon Club Resort Marina in Cape May, New Jersey and Sunset Marina in Ocean City where a tournament record purse of $6,756,020 was handed out to 25 different winners. Worthy of note is two winners received checks of over $1.3 million including a tournament record payout of $1,477,980 to Taylor Jean for the heaviest blue marlin. Additionally, seven other winners received checks between $196,000 and $634,000 and five others received checks between $52,000 and $106,000.
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