OC residents who want to head over the bridge to WOC will have to take the Route 90 bridge come January, as SHA will close downtown crossing for repairs. — PAGE 85
Offshore wind takes another blow from feds
Dept. of Transportation yanks $47M grant for facility and steel mill US Wind intends to build at Sparrows Point shipyard — PAGE 12 Rock and Ride
The fire department’s boat answers call to duty in multiple search and rescue missions in last two months. — PAGE 14
Rebranded bike rally returns to Ocean City Sept. 10-14
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Sept. 5, 2025) A rebranded motorcycle rally, complete with live music, vendors, stunt shows and more, will return to Ocean City next week.
Beginning Sept. 10, promoter Kickin Events will transform the Ocean City inlet parking lot and convention center into a motorcycle lover’s paradise for the inaugural edition of OC Rock and Ride. The new event will feature four days of concerts, five days of vendors, stunt shows, a Sept. 11 tribute and other attractions.
“OC Rock & Ride — running September 10–14, 2025 — is a bold new chapter in the legacy of Ocean City BikeFest,” the event’s website reads. “Rebranded and revitalized by local organizers Matthew and Tyler Odachowski, this rally embraces the traditions that riders cherish while introducing modern touches to elevate the experience.”
This year, concerts will take place on two stages at the inlet parking lot. Festivities will kick off on Wednesday with performances by Blandini, Jasmine Cain, Gavin Evick Band, Six Whiskey Revival, Lauren Glick and John Lamere.
The music lineup continues with performances by Slaughter, Mini Kiss, Crack the Sky, The Dunehounds and Witches Brew on Thursday and Queensryche, Quiet Riot, Jasmine
Cain, Cecilia’s Fall, Michael Sky Band and Johnny Cardo on Friday.
On Saturday, performances by Uncle Kracker, Lit, The Marshall Morlock Band, Doc Marten and the Flannels, Emma Klein and Rock the Mic Top 10 will conclude the concert series.
This year’s OC Rock and Ride will also feature a Sept. 11 tribute with fireworks and a performance of the national anthem, as well as stunt shows, bike prizes, vendor displays and a Boardwalk motorcycle parade, which will take place at 10 a.m. on Sept. 13.
OC Rock and Ride will also partner with businesses in Worcester, Wicomico and Somerset counties this year for a “Cruzin the Coast” ride. Rally participants can collect stamps by visiting participating businesses and then turn in their stamp cards for a chance to win up to $2,000.
“Led by the Odachowskis, Ocean City locals dedicated to preserving the spirit of the rally while ensuring its future viability, OC Rock & Ride is a hometown initiative with broader community appeal,” the OC Rock and Ride website reads. “Whether you come for the bikes, the music, or the coastal camaraderie, this rally embodies the evolving energy of the East Coast’s largest motorcycle rally.”
In May, the Ocean City Council agreed to allow the father and son
See PERFORMANCES Page 10
Special event zone in effect for OC Rock and Ride event
(Sept. 5, 2025) With thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts expected in our resort community next week, Ocean City will be designated a Special Event Zone beginning Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2025, through Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025, during the OC Rock and Ride.
The Special Event Zone reduces established speed limits in the zone and increases fines for violations. Additionally, legislation signed in 2020 allows for increased penalties for specific motor vehicle violations. Similar to a Construction Zone, violators will face increased fines or, in some cases, arrest.
During this timeframe, citizens can expect a significant police presence, as officers from multiple allied agencies will assist the Ocean City Police Department. Officers from the Ocean City Police Department, the Maryland State Police, the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office, and the Howard County Police Department will strictly enforce all traffic laws. Additionally, significant traffic congestion and alternative traffic pat-
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terns are anticipated throughout the weekend.
Spectators are urged to keep the sidewalks clear for pedestrian traffic and should not incite the spinning of wheels, “burn-outs,” or other unlawful stunts by motorists. Officers will enforce all laws for spectators who incite drivers, as well as the violations committed by the drivers. Further, with high pedestrian traffic expected, pedestrians are urged to Walk Smart! Always use crosswalks when crossing roadways, wait for the signal to change, and ensure drivers see you while crossing.
The Ocean City Police Department would also like to remind everyone that there is no trailer or oversized vehicle parking on any street or paved public lot without a permit between May 1 and Oct. 31. There is no trailer parking or oversized vehicle parking on Baltimore Avenue at any time.
For more information on the Ocean City Special Event Zones, visit www.oceancitymd.gov/specialeventzone.
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Berlin seeks new funding for Rt. 113 project
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Sept. 5, 2025) The Worcester County Commissioners this week agreed to help the Town of Berlin secure state funding for the early stages of what could be an audacious public works project after the federal government rescinded nearly $1 million in grant money.
The commissioners on Tuesday agreed to reallocate $24,000 in county grant funds toward a Berlin initiative to better connect the downtown and the Flower Street corridors, which are separated by Route 113. Walking paths, bike paths, and pedestrian overpasses to span the busy roadway are all on the table, town leaders say.
Funding for the planning and design phases of the project was sup-
posed to have been paid for by the federal government with a $1.2 million Reconnected Communities and Neighborhoods grant. Berlin did get the first $250,000 from that grant, but in July, Congress rescinded the remaining $950,000 in its budget reconciliation bill.
Working with the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT), Berlin sought new funding sources. MDOT let the town know it had located $643,000 in unspent earmarked federal dollars that the agency could steer toward Berlin’s project. However, to accept that money, Berlin must provide a 20% match.
While MDOT gave Berlin a twoyear window to complete the match, the agency only gave Berlin 48 hours to decide whether to claim the funding, town officials said.
At the same time, Worcester County had already given Berlin $113,000 toward a Rails and Trails project – that’s the initiative that builds bike-walk paths parallel to, or in place of, old train tracks – but the funds were restricted to that purpose only.
Berlin’s solution to fully funding the 20% match was to formally ask the commissioners to repurpose the Rails and Trails money for the Route 113 project. Adding $24,000 to another $104,000 already on hand would bring Berlin to the minimum 20%.
Sara Gorfinkel, executive assistant to Mayor Zack Tyndall, addressed the commissioners on this issue at the meeting because the mayor was unavailable due to a work conflict.
Explaining how Berlin’s elected
leaders agreed via email vote to pursue this funding solution given the tight timeline, she asked the commissioners for the full $113,000 from the Rails and Trails fund to be repurposed for the Route 113 project.
“MDOT came to us last week, very last minute, and said that we would be eligible to get earmark funding that was distributed,” Gorfinkel said. “It's been 10 years that hadn't been used, and they could redistribute it to the Town of Berlin to focus on this project.”
Commissioner Eric Fiori asked her why Berlin hadn’t used the Rails and Trails money yet. Gorfinkel replied that the death of the town’s planning director last year, Dave Engelhart, slowed the process, and as a result that project was not ready to move forward.
Fiori came close to sidelining the issue for a later date, saying he felt that the issue – which came as a literal last-minute addition to the commissioners’ agenda Tuesday – was being rushed and lacked detail.
“I have to make the motion to table this until the next meeting, because I just don’t think we’re 100% prepared for this,” he said. “Obviously, I don’t want to hold up money for the Town of Berlin or anything you guys want to do with it. I just don’t know if due process has been followed on this. I’d like to see that before we move the money.”
However, after some discussion among the commissioners, in consideration of the short timeline to confirm the 20% match, they agreed to move $24,000 from Rails and Trails funding and would reconsider moving the remainder of the $113,000 in the future. The vote was 6-1, with Commissioner Jim Bunting voting no.
Combining that $24,000 in county funds to another $104,000 already on hand for Berlin gets the town to the minimum threshold for a 20% match, which would be $128,000.
Technically, 20% of $643,000 is $128,600. But $128,000 is the amount Berlin cited in its written re-
City officials finalize photo franchise ordinance change
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Sept. 5, 2025) The Ocean City Council on Tuesday voted to adopt changes to the city’s beach photography franchise.
An ordinance, passed on second reading this week, will allow Telescope Pictures to reduce its annual franchise payments in exchange for a brand deal with the Town of Ocean City. The changes come weeks after the company’s owners, Jon and Sam Cameron, came before the City Council seeking some sort of financial relief to keep the business afloat.
For years, Ocean City’s beach photography franchise was broken into two separate franchises. The two franchises were not divided geographically but rather limited the number of photographers allowed on the beach.
In 2018, the Camerons’ Telescope Pictures submitted the only bid for one of the two franchises and was awarded a four-year contract at $152,500 per year. And in 2019, the owners expressed interest in the second available franchise, which they bid at $76,250 per year.
To that end, the mayor and City Council that year agreed to combine the two-franchise system and accept the Camerons’ second bid for the con-
solidated franchise.
Earlier this summer, however, the Camerons asked the council to allow changes to their franchise agreement to reflect technological changes that affected their business. The couple acknowledged that changes in technology and the proliferation of cellphones had upset their business model, and that they were now seeking a reduction in their annual fee in exchange for some brand deal with the city’s tourism department.
“What we’re asking is to help us stay in business,” Jon Cameron said at the time.
Following that meeting, the Camerons met with city staff and the Ocean City Tourism Department to discuss the new terms, which were presented to the City Council last month.
Specifically, the city will reduce the company’s franchise fees to $114,475 and grant a three-year contract extension in exchange for branding all the company’s products with the city’s logo and web address.
However, to make those changes, the council directed the city solicitor to amend the beach photo franchise ordinance and draft a new agreement between the city and Telescope Pictures. The ordinance passed on second reading in a 6-0 vote this week, with Councilwoman Carol Proctor opposed.
Performances, vendors on tap
Continued from Page 3
team’s Kickin Events to produce this year’s motorcycle rally after it was announced that former OC Bikefest promoter OC Jams failed to pay rent and lease fees as outlined in its agreement with the city.
To keep the event going, the council also agreed to waive Kickin Events’ ticket fees for the 2025 and 2026 event and facility usage fees in 2025, among other things.
With the council’s support – and a new agreement in hand – the Odachowskis began the task of booking
national and regional bands, securing vendors and sponsors, and obtaining a county liquor license, with less than four months remaining until the event’s kickoff. In a show of good will, the organizers also agreed to honor the $130,000 worth of tickets sold by the previous promoter before it defaulted on the terms of its contract.
Tickets continue to be sold on the event’s website, ocrockandride.com. For more information on this year’s festivities and concert lineup, visit the OC Rock and Ride website, or the event’s Facebook page, OC Bikefest.
County provides matching funds
Continued from Page 6
quest to the county.
Up next, the town will ramp up a public comment about the Route 113 project through community meetings, the mayor said in an interview Wednesday.
He said the plan to bridge the divide between Berlin’s west and east sides, cleaved by Route 113, has been in the works for years.
“What it truly means is, we are looking at how we overcome the highway infrastructure that divides the Town of Berlin in half,” he said.
“Everything is on the table: improved lighting, better crosswalks, sidewalks, maybe a pedestrian bridge.”
He said Route 113 crosspoints under consideration for improvements include Route 50 across from Atlantic General Hospital, at Bay Street, and at the Germantown Road/South Main Street intersection.
An eventual Rails and Trails project would link Berlin to Snow Hill on a biking and walking trail, which dovetails with the master plan for greenways recently adopted by the county, Tyndall added.
DOT axes federal funding for wind company project
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Sept. 5, 2025) The Trump Administration dealt another blow to US Wind late last week when it announced that $47 million in federal funding for the company’s Sparrows Point Steel port project had been withdrawn.
On Aug. 29, U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy withdrew and terminated $679 million in federal funding for 12 offshore wind projects, including $47.3 million allocated for the Baltimore facility, which will produce monopile foundations and other components for US Wind’s first two Maryland projects sited off the coast of Ocean City.
The secretary defended his action last week by stating his department would prioritize federal dollars toward restoring the country’s shipbuilding industry. In response to the news, Nancy Sopko, US Wind’s vice president of external affairs, said plans to develop Sparrows Point Steel will continue, regardless of the funding setback.
“Sparrows Point Steel will continue to move forward, ultimately bringing hundreds of manufacturing jobs to the Baltimore region,” she said in a statement. “There continues to be a robust market for steel components for the energy and shipbuilding industries, and US Wind is confident that, just as steel has been a key part of the region's past, Sparrows Point Steel will be an important part of Maryland's industrial future.”
US Wind vows to move forward
US Wind has touted the Sparrows Point Steel property as a manufacturing hub that, once established, would support the country’s offshore wind industry.
Ironically, the site was once home to Bethlehem Steel, which operated a steel mill and shipyard for years before selling out to Baltimore Marine Industries in 1997.
The land is now owned by Tradepoint Atlantic, which has entered into an agreement that will give US Wind site control of over 90 acres at Sparrows Point, according to the company’s website.
US Wind intends to upgrade the land and buildings to accommodate the manufacturing of steel components that will be used in projects around the country, including the 114-turbine offshore wind project to be located off Ocean City’s coastline.
Duffy last week called offshore wind projects “wasteful,” adding that they used resources that could go toward rebuilding the country’s maritime industry and supporting more traditional forms of energy. The withdrawal and termination of 12 offshore wind grants coincides with the administration’s goal of refocusing the Department of Transportation and its Maritime Administration on rebuilding America’s shipbuilding capacity, the department said.
However, offshore wind proponents have lambasted the department’s decision to withdraw its federal funding. Those proponents included the nonprofit organization Oceantic Network, which argued that the offshore wind industry has already driven more than $5 billion toward the revitalization of American ports.
“The U.S. offshore wind industry has sparked $5.1 billion in port funding and created more than 6,000 jobs, making this critical infrastructure mission ready for a variety of roles,” a statement from CEO Liz Burdock said. “It’s also expanded tax revenue for seaside communities where port assets were idle or underused for decades. This political action from the administration is another targeted attack on American jobs and American taxpayers, which will raise electricity prices for millions across the U.S. and put thousands out of work.”
Last week’s announcement was seen as a win by local officials and state representatives, who for years have fought the Maryland offshore wind project. In a statement last Friday, Rep. Andy Harris (R-1st) praised Duffy and his department for withdrawing funding from what he called “failed offshore wind projects.”
“This decision is a major win for our local communities, fishermen, and our coastal economy,” he said.
“The offshore wind industry has repeatedly overpromised and underdelivered – threatening marine ecosystems, disrupting historic industries like commercial fishing, and burdening taxpayers with billions in subsidies. Maryland’s Eastern Shore is not a testing ground for green energy experiments. I thank the White House and DOT for standing with our community, defending our coastline, and working to terminate these reckless offshore wind projects once and for all.”
Terry McGean, city manager for the Town of Ocean City, echoed those sentiments this week.
“Sparrows Point is a wholly owned subsidiary of US Wind. We are pleased that the Trump administration recognized that giving subsidies to foreign companies to help construct costly and unreliable offshore wind turbines is a bad investment for the American people,” he said.
“Hopefully the Department of Transportation can direct these funds towards a better use in Maryland, such as replacing the Key Bridge.”
US Wind’s majority owner is Renexia SpA, an Italian renewable energy development company.
The department’s announcement is just one in a series of actions against the offshore wind industry in recent weeks.
Just 10 days earlier, for example, the federal government announced it would withdraw is approval of US Wind’s Maryland offshore wind energy project and take another look at the conclusions that led to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management issuing a construction and operations permit.
Sopko, at the time, maintained that the company remained confident in its approvals.
PHOTO COURTESY TRADEPOINT ATLANTIC
The U.S. Department of Transportation is withdrawing $47 million in federal funding for the Sparrows Point Steel project, which will produce steel components for offshore wind projects.
Ocean City fire boat proves critical in recent rescues
(Sept. 5, 2025) Since returning to service with two new motors, the Ocean City Fire Department Fireboat has had an increased presence on local waterways. This upgrade has not only allowed department crews to train consistently at the operations level, but it has also directly affected the department’s ability to save lives.
Over the past few months, the Fireboat has responded to a growing number of calls for service, many of which occurred while out on training details and assignments. Among the most notable:
• Inlet Rescue (August): During large swells in the inlet, an OCFD rescue swimmer deployed from the fireboat to save a young man swept into strong currents and the dangerous jetty rocks.
• Capsized Pontoon Boat: Three victims were rescued after their vessel overturned in the inlet.
• Boating Trauma: Assisted a man who had been run over by a pontoon boat and struck by its propeller.
• Jet Ski Accidents: Crews responded to multiple Jet Ski incidents, stabilizing and packaging patients for transfer to land-based EMS units.
• Juvenile Boaters: Provided aid to three juveniles stranded after wind carried their boat away while they attempted to push off a mud flat.
Beyond emergencies, the fireboat has also provided operational support for large-scale events such as the Ocean City Air Show and Fourth of July celebrations. Joint training exercises with Maryland Natural Resources Police (MNRP) and U.S. Coast Guard vessels have further strengthened interagency coordination.
Equally important is the fireboat’s role in prevention and public outreach. Crews have made countless public contacts on the water—answering questions about safety gear, providing directions, and addressing unsafe behaviors such as bow riding when observed.
Restructuring of county treatment facilities possible
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Sept. 5, 2025) Tentative plans are forming that could connect some West Ocean City sewerage facilities to Ocean City’s midtown wastewater treatment plant to ease the burden on Worcester County’s capacity.
At the close of Tuesday’s meeting of the Worcester County Commissioners, Commissioner Joe Mitrecic said it’s a scenario that’s being talked about behind closed doors but shared few details.
“In discussions with the Town of Ocean City and staff, we looked at a couple different scenarios for sewer disposal over in the West Ocean City area, to pump across to Ocean City,” said Mitrecic, who represents Ocean City. “There has been some different scenarios floated out there and we’d like to see those, so we can make a formal ask of the town.”
Eventually, he added, President Ted Elder and Vice President Eric Fiori could attend an Ocean City Council work session with a proposal in hand.
In an interview Wednesday, Mitrecic said his strategy could
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
The Ocean City Fire Department’s fireboat, a vessel that aids rescues on the area’s waters, renewed operations last summer after receiving two new motors.
OC sewer discussion planned
county with its sewerage flow.
Potentially, two of the county’s wastewater systems could be taken offline – Mitrecic declined to specify which – and instead routed to Ocean City’s treatment facilities, which are headquartered at the 65th Street public works campus.
Mitrecic, who spent a decade as an Ocean City councilman, added that the resort’s wastewater plant can process about 15 million gallons a day – even as the island is almost completely built-out – and could have room to spare to accommodate flow from the county.
The upside to offloading county sewer capacity could be big. If Ocean City were to agree to a deal, it could lessen the strain on the existing sewerage plants, bringing down the cost of upkeep and replacement in the long run, and lower customer bills.
County Administrator Weston Young said this agenda item for discussion would be added to the commissioners’ Sept. 16 meeting agenda, and he planned to formally present the idea to county staff this week for brainstorming.
“I don’t know how it’ll be received by Ocean City,” Young said in an interview Wednesday. “There’s a lot of unknowns. Is there even a pipe that does that, or do we have to build one? We
need time to pull all that together.”
In Worcester County, and West Ocean City in particular, growth is stifled by capacity. There’s a tight market for development because West Ocean City’s sewerage facilities can only handle so much. Mystic Harbor’s plant in particular is at its limits, Young said.
Some developers in the county have noted that potential housing projects are limited by the amount of equivalent dwelling units, or EDUs – a measurement of water and sewer demand – they have at their disposal. Ocean City doesn’t use EDUs as a measurement, but instead uses a fixture count to establish a baseline for quarterly customer billing.
There are also a lot of developerbuilt plants in service areas, but they’re cheaply built and cost more to maintain in the long run, Young said. That’s what happened at the Glen Riddle plant, where some treatment equipment failed, which forced the county to pump and haul its effluent to Ocean Pines at a cost of millions of dollars.
“They’re never run as effectively and efficiently as legitimate wastewater treatment plants like Ocean City or Ocean Pines has. By connecting into Ocean City’s, you tend to get a higher level of treatment, and it’s more cost effective to treat,” Young said.
Sewer upgrade project advances for resort
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Sept. 5, 2025) A project to upgrade the Ocean City’s wastewater treatment plant will move forward
after city officials this week selected a contractor to do the work at a cost of more than $41 million.
On Tuesday, Public Works Director Hal Adkins presented the Ocean
City Council with the results of last month’s bid opening for the wastewater treatment plant project. With two bids in hand, Adkins said he was recommending the City Council se-
lect Pennsylvania-based company Ronca Inc., the low bidder at $41,641,000.
“I remind you and those in atten-
See LOW Page 18
Ocean City Mayor and Council members are pictured at Tuesday’s meeting during a discussion of a major wastewater treatment plant upgrade.
Route 90 confirmed as local money priority
MDOT has $10.8 million budgeted for significant work over next five years
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Sept. 5, 2025) The only major road in Worcester County getting any state funding anytime soon is Route 90, according to a report on transportation spending issued this week.
The Maryland Department of Transportation has budgeted $10.8 million for operational improvements to Route 90 for fiscal years 2026 through 2031, according to a draft capital projects update released Tuesday. The report says both of Route 90’s bridges over the St. Martin River and Assawoman Bay would be included in any upgrades.
Additional travel lanes, interchange, and at-grade intersections would be evaluated, as well as pedestrian and bicycle needs along Route 90, which is also known as the Ocean City Expressway. The report notes that an environmental analysis and engineering are anticipated to begin during fiscal year 2027.
Approximately $1.85 million already has been spent out of a $12.6 million budget for planning and engineering during fiscal year 2025,
which ended June 30, according to the report.
Worcester County officials have made it clear to the State Highway Administration that Route 90 bridges into Ocean City were their top priority, according to SHA Administrator Will Pines.
“We got a very old bridge that needs lots of work, that is one of the two routes into Ocean City from Maryland, that has a lot of age behind it,” Pines told OC Today-Dispatch in an interview in May. “That's the feature project. That's the one that the county asked for. That's the major infrastructure need for the area.”
that already have been studied will not see any additional funding in this draft budget.
Ocean City’s Route 50 bridge has been designated as a “project on hold,” the report notes, after the state spent $2.9 million in fiscal 2025 on a planning study. It investigated options to eliminate or upgrade the draw span on the 82-year-old bridge, as well as possible improvements to the median and sidewalks.
‘We got a very old bridge that needs lots of work, that is one of the two routes into Ocean City from Maryland, that has a lot of age behind it.’
SHA Administrator Will Pines
Hundreds of millions of dollars in state and federal revenue support the six-year capital budget for transportation projects, formally known as the Consolidated Transportation Program report. Broadly, the $21.5 billion budget includes investments across all modes of transportation in the state, including aviation, ports, and light rail.
Two other Worcester County roads
Named for former resort mayor Harry W. Kelley, the future of the bridge over Sinepuxent Bay has been the subject of studies and planning dating to 2010, when the State Highway Administration said the bridge has outlived its useful life and proposed replacing it at some point.
The other project mentioned in the report was a study of potential improvements to Route 589, or Racetrack Road, through the Ocean Pines corridor.
While a feasibility study – one that considered expanding Route 589 to four lanes, plus new sidewalks, shared-use paths, and bike lanes –
has already been completed at a cost of $1.4 million, the report notes that this project, too, is officially on hold.
Other minor roadway projects slated for Worcester County include various safety and road resurfacing improvements for a cost of about $15 million. Design of a pedestrian safety action plan for Coastal Highway in Ocean City between 15th Street and 67th Street is underway at cost of $3.1 million, according to the report.
Before MDOT submits the final transportation budget to the state legislature in January, transportation officials will visit every Maryland county so they can hear from the public and local officials. MDOT officials are scheduled to visit Worcester County during the Oct. 7 meeting of the county commissioners.
Low bidder gets wastewater job
Continued from Page 16
dance tonight, we're basically rebuilding the entire front end of the plant that was originally designed in 1967 and came online in 1969,” he said. “The project as a whole, start to finish, will take about three years to complete.”
The work will include the construction of a new headworks facility and pumping station, as well as mechanical and electrical upgrades, and all association site work and demolition. As part of his recommendation this week, Adkins also asked the council to approve a $3 million transfer from the city’s wastewater fund balance and acknowledge a resolution to “forward fund” the project in the amount of $5 million.
“The $3 million and $5 million give me the working capital that I need for this fall to get me to December or January, when the bond funds become available,” he said.
With that said, the council this week voted 6-0, with Councilwoman Carol Proctor absent, to support Adkins’ recommendations. Later in the meeting, the council passed a resolution to forward fund the project at $5 million. Forward funding means the $5 million taken from the wastewater fund balance be replaced with proceeds from a bond sale set for later this year.
“There is a strong potential that a cash flow, exceeding the $3,000,000 Wastewater Fund Balance Transfer, will be needed for construction activities prior to the bond sale set to occur in November or December,” a memo to the City Council reads.
Parking issues lead to pulled rental permits
detailed explanations to each homeowner explaining how their rental property isn’t code compliant.
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Sept. 5, 2025) Worcester County zoning officials have revoked rental licenses from select homeowners in one West Ocean City neighborhood because their rental properties failed to meet county-mandated parking requirements.
Homeowners at The Landings at Bayside, a community of single-family homes and townhouses along Route 611, were informed by mail last month that their rental license was “issued in error and is no longer valid.”
According to the county’s zoning code, for any unit to be rented on a short-term basis – that’s 28 days or fewer – it must provide an additional off-street parking space beyond the two required.
However, this rule only applies to homes built after January 1, 2020, which affects nearly all the recently built townhouses built in The Landings, according to Keener.
parking is assigned for this purpose in the future, short-term licenses may be reinstated,” Keener explained in an email.
Brian Davis
Another eight rental licenses were pulled from single-family homes with short-term rental licenses built after January 2020. To meet the requirements ahead of a license revocation, Keener said these homeowners have been contacted about installing a third parking space on their lot. Stacked parking and garage spots don’t count.
public safety.
As a result, the county conducted an internal audit of rental licenses issues in the development and found that some short-term rental licenses had, in fact, been issued erroneously, according to Keener.
Brian Davis was one of the eight single-family homeowners who received a letter from the county. It said he had to apply for a zoning permit to widen his driveway. The county gave him 12 months to complete the work.
“When we bought the home, we understood they allowed short-term rentals in the development,” he said.
She said eight licenses were revoked from rental townhouses because they didn’t have a dedicated third parking space.
A cybersecurity expert who lives full-time in New Jersey, Jones said he Short-term rental licenses yanked from a few property owners at The Landings
A total of 16 letters went out, according to Jennifer Keener, the county’s director of Development Review and Permitting. Several letters obtained by OC Today-Dispatch gave
“While there is parking within the common areas of the multi-family sections, the spaces are not allocated to any individual unit. If adequate
According to Keener, these parking problems came to light after hearing from homeowners and other parties in The Landings. Some were concerned that short-term rentals generated unwanted traffic. County officials visited and did a walkthrough, with an eye on parking and
“We saw there were people shortterm renting. When I looked online at what the requirements were –you know, three parking spaces, two of them unstacked, it did not say the third parking spot had to be unstacked.”
-ENTERTAINMENT-
FRIDAY: DJ Billy T • 3 p.m.
SATURDAY: The Dunehounds • 1 p.m. DJ Bigler • 6 p.m.
visits Ocean City often to enjoy his beach house at The Landings. He said he’s noticed the community has been full of chatter in person and on social media about how short-term renters are the problem – which he disagrees with.
“There’s no mark on somebody’s head that says I’m a short-term renter or I’m a long term resident to identify where the problem is. That leads me to believe there’s a prejudice or a stigma, a jealousy against people who short-term rent theirs out. Otherwise, there’s no way to say this is because of short-term renters. You can’t honestly say that,” he said.
Another Landings homeowner who occasionally rents out his singlefamily property said he’s upset by the county’s decision and believes homeowners property and free speech rights are being violated.
A full-time Delaware National Guardsman, Rob Knauer says he’s leading the charge by rallying a cohort of homeowners who aren’t happy with how this is playing out. He feels the HOA wrongly went on the offense, trying to squeeze out short-term renters by calling in county officials.
He has asked the county for a “collaborative resolution” that would reinstate short-term licenses, clarify the
rules about when a third space is needed, and to verify any community complaints.
“People bought the homes with the intent to rent their properties responsibly under the HOA’s guidance,” he said. “Instead of following a democratic process, if you will, through bylaws or whatever, they pressured the county to pull everybody's licenses.”
Added Knauer: “The board is holding those parking spaces basically hostage as a means to ban short term rentals in the community. Everything’s being stripped from the homeowners and it’s very unfortunate. It’s unjust, in my opinion.”
Charlie Crawford, current president of The Landings homeowners association, declined to comment by phone other than to say it’s a county issue based on rental license law, not an HOA issue.
A note sent to residents by community management company Legum & Norman offered refunds for canceled rentals as a result of people losing their rental licenses.
“While it is unfortunate that this regulation was not more clearly emphasized in the [short-term rental] application process, it remains a County requirement that all shortterm rental properties must meet,” the note said.
State police investigating fatal two-vehicle collision
(Sept. 5, 2025) Maryland State Police are investigating a fatal twovehicle crash that occurred shortly after 10 a.m. in West Ocean City on Aug. 27.
The driver of a motorcycle, identified as Dennis Ellis, 65, of Berlin, was transported by ambulance to TidalHealth Peninsula Regional, where he was later pronounced deceased.
The driver, a 17-year-old male, and a passenger, an 18-year-old female, of a Jeep Grand Cherokee were reported uninjured in the crash.
Around 10:17 a.m., troopers from the Maryland State Police Berlin Barrack responded to Route
50 at Inlet Isle Lane for a report of a two-vehicle crash. According to a preliminary investigation, the motorcycle, operated by Ellis, was traveling westbound on Route 50, attempting to go through the intersection, when it was struck by the Jeep, who failed to yield the right of way.
The driver of the Jeep was issued traffic citations on the scene. Assistance on scene was provided by the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office, Ocean City Fire Department, and Ocean City emergency medical services personnel. The crash investigation is being led by the Maryland State Police Crash Team.
Man arrested for burglary at West OC car repair shop
(Sept. 5, 2025) Authorities made an arrest after catching a burglary suspect in the act last week.
On Tuesday, Aug. 26, at approximately 10:30 p.m., deputies from the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported burglary in progress at Atlantic Car Care in West Ocean City.
degree burglary, malicious destruction of property under $1,000, theft $100 to under $1,500, failure to obey a lawful order of a law enforcement officer and resisting arrest.
Upon arrival, deputies observed a male suspect, later identified as Cody Lee Figiel, exiting the business through a shattered front glass door. After a brief foot pursuit, Figiel was apprehended and taken into custody.
Figiel has been charged with second-
Figiel was transported to the Worcester County Jail, where he is being held without bond. It was further discovered that Figiel was wanted on outstanding warrants through the Queen Anne’s County Sheriff’s Office, the Salisbury Police Department, and Parole and Probation.
“I am proud of the proactive work of our deputies in swiftly making an arrest during a burglary in progress,” said Sheriff Matt Crisafulli. “Their actions reflect our unwavering commitment to protect our community. Let it be clear, crime will not be tolerated in Worcester County.”
Cody Lee Figiel
Seafood to be showcased at new Northside Park festival
(Sept. 5, 2025) Maryland's finest seafood will be showcased at the Ocean City Seafood Festival, taking place at Northside Park on Saturday, Sept. 6 from 12 p.m. - 8 p.m. This family-friendly event will feature local eateries and food trucks, live music, cooking demos, wine, beer, and spirits tastings, artisan vendors, a VIP tent, a kids’ zone, and more.
With tickets starting at just $15 and kids 16 and under FREE, this event is perfect for the whole family. Attendees will enjoy exciting seafood from local favorites like Hooper’s Crab House, Papi's Tacos, Hooked, The Sterling Tavern, Saltwater 75, Ropewalk Ocean City, Macky’s, and Fallen Pine Oyster Company. Steamed crabs to grilled oysters and fish tacos will be showcased.
“We have been steaming Maryland crabs in Ocean City for 44 years. We are thrilled to be part of the inaugural Ocean City Seafood Festival, where we will be steaming crabs onsite,” said Royette Shepherd, owner of Hooper’s Crab House.
Festival-goers can enjoy wines, craft beers, and spirits from local and national wineries and breweries. Enjoy live music by The 8 Ohms Band, Tumblehome Band, and The Players Band.
Guests will have the chance to watch local chefs in action during live cooking demos, offering expert tips on preparing seafood. Families will also love the kids' zone, where kids can enjoy outdoor toys and games.
"I am excited to add the Ocean City Seafood Festival to B Scene Event’s lineup," stated Beth Laverick, owner of B Scene Events & Promotions.
Attendees can take advantage of special promotional rates from hotel sponsors, making it easy to enjoy a full weekend in Ocean City. A special thanks to the Art League of Ocean City, our non-profit partner.
"We're excited to partner with B Scene Events and Promotions to bring a first-class Seafood Festival to Northside Park this September," commented Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan. "It's the perfect way to celebrate our local seafood industry, showcase our talented chefs, and offer a fun and family-friendly event for locals and visitors. This festival is one of many reasons why Ocean City is the ultimate destination for a summer getaway."
To purchase tickets or for more information about the Seafood Festival, please visit ocmdseafoodfest.com and follow @oceancitymaryland and @ocmdseafoodfestival on social media.
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State wines to be featured at Ocean City event at Inlet
(Sept. 5, 2025) Ocean City's Wine on the Beach festival, set for this weekend, Sept. 5-6, offers much more than experiencing the many varieties of wines produced in Maryland.
In the more than 30 years the festival has been on the Inlet sand, it has offered wine enthusiasts the opportunity to learn about the process of this significant aspect of Maryland's agricultural economy -- from the growers and producers themselves.
Because no one can better represent anything better than those who make it, winery owners and representatives are at each station, ready to explain what elements take the grapes to the glass.
The uniqueness of Maryland wines is determined by more than the favorable climate and soil. Those who produce it have their own stories.
These family businesses are themselves part of what makes the wines so distinct and memorable.
This year 13 Maryland wineries will participate in the festival. They will be pouring guests an unlimited number of samples, as well as selling favorites by the glass, bottle and case. As some wineries are not represented by distributors, the festival offers the best opportunity to load up on a newly discovered favorite.
So come to the festival, learn about the wineries (many of whom you can visit at their farms) and share the experience with family and friends with a picnic on the beach, live music, and Delmarva cuisine offered by local vendors.
Music on the oceanfront stage will be provided by Bird Dog and the Road Kings. Also featured this year will be local favorites Tranzfusion and Misspent Fortune, playing favorites from the 80's and more.
A ticket includes a souvenir glass and unlimited samples in the hours between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Wine will be available for sale from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. each day, with the festival going until 7 p.m.
Bulk purchases can be stored at Will Call, and a nearby pickup is available for vehicles.
"Bring your blankets and wagons for a beach party," Chris Nokes, manager of the festival since its inception, said. "This beach party is not the end of summer, it's the beginning of a new season of fun in Ocean City."
For further information, visit www.winefest.com
FILE PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
The Inlet parking lot annually hosts Wine on the Beach with wineries set up under tents and live music on the beach nearby.
ALOC forming leadership team for women
(Sept. 5, 2025) The Art League of Ocean City is building a group of women to become artistic, collaborative cohorts interested in building leadership skills and utilizing the arts in their life's work. The new “Women's Art League Leadership Collective” will embrace women ages 22 and older who see themselves as emerging leaders, and the Art League invites them to apply. This unique group of women will meet monthly to build community, grow leadership skills, reflect, be creative, and give back.
The group is supported by the Community Foundation of the East-
ern Shore Women's Leadership Grant.
“Are you a young woman who is interested in building your leadership competencies? Do you enjoy artistic expression?” Mary Anne Cooper, Education Director for the Art League, asked. “Then please consider joining our new Women's Art League Leadership Collective. You will engage with other creative women who want to make a difference in our community and assist in planning positive impacts for our friends and members.”
The first meeting of the new collective is Sept. 24, 2025, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
at the Ocean City Center for the Arts, 502 94th St. bayside. There is no cost to join or attend the meetings, and refreshments will be served. This first meeting, led by Cooper, will be a meetand-greet and will include the creation of a personal journal, a review of the collective’s purpose and vision, and a brainstorming for upcoming projects.
Subsequent meetings are scheduled for Oct. 15 discussing “What’s Your Vision?” with Barbara Buford where members will create a vision board. On Nov. 17, Jocelyn Briddell will lead “Understanding Self and Leadership,” and
members will create a portrait of themselves via their dominant color. On Dec. 10, Kathryn Redden, director of the Lower Shore Performing Arts Company, will lead members in a discussion on the power of communication, including public speaking and stage presence. Jan. 21, 2026 will be a planning meeting for the year.
The group is limited to 25-30 members. Applicants will receive an email by Sept. 15 with details.
More information is available by contacting Cooper at education@artleagueofoceancity.org.
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Berlin’s chamber hosting Main Street block party Sat.
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Sept. 5, 2025) As summer draws to a close, the Town of Berlin will kick off its lineup of fall events, inviting community members to engage in autumnal, family-friendly fun.
This Saturday, Sept. 6, the Berlin Chamber of Commerce will host its second annual Small Town Block Party. According to Garrett Neville, chamber president, the event is free to attend. Residents can come out from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. and be welcomed with live music, food vendors, kids' crafts and a bouncy house. Alcohol will be for sale for adults.
The music lineup includes Berlin Airlift from 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., followed by Kiti Gartner & The Drifting Valentines from 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Berlin Airlift is a local group that often plays their tunes throughout the area; Kiti Gartner & The Drifting Valentines hail from Washington, D.C. The band plays western swing, rockabilly, old country and jump blues.
Block party attendees can grab lunch from the Grateful Grub Food Truck. Berlin restaurants will also be open to patronize, as will the downtown storefronts.
“This event brings family fun, great music, activities for adults and kids, and it's a fun afternoon to sort of close
out summer and shift into fall,” Neville said. “This event offers us a chance to provide an afternoon of fun for our community and visitors while also bringing people to town to patronize our various shops and restaurants.”
This Saturday will be the second time the Berlin Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring the Small Town Block Party. Before 2024, the event was privately funded by the Atlantic Hotel and Fager’s Island and was known as the Berlin Small Town Throw Down, which featured country music bands.
Last year, the chamber took the block party over and will continue its involvement yet again.
“We hope everyone has a fantastic time and enjoys all that this cool town has to offer,” Neville added.
On Sunday, Sept. 14, Berlin Airlift will be back in town, this time performing at the Calvin B. Taylor House’s lawn at 6 p.m. Next month, the Taylor House is screening the Halloween classic Hocus Pocus on Sunday, Oct. 12, at 7 p.m.
The Fiddler’s Convention, is set for Sept. 19 through Sept. 20.
Maintaining the autumnal theme, Oktoberfest is scheduled for Berlin on Saturday, Oct. 18, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Truck-N-Treat will be held on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
County 4-H robotics team earns honors at challenge
(Sept. 5, 2025) Worcester County 4-H Robotics Team traveled to the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium last month to compete against teams from across the state in the 4-H Robotic Challenge.
This year the challenge centered around the theme of protecting the environment. The yearly challenge is released in May each year and competitions are usually the third or fourth Sunday in August, giving teams the summer to prepare. During the competition, teams are judged on a technical presentation, a service-learning presentation, and completion of robotic modules.
The technical presentation consists of the children presenting their robot design, strategy, and programing to a panel of judges. The service-learning component allows the children an opportunity to show what they did to educate the public about the theme for the year, and it is also judged by a panel of judges.
Lastly, the robotic module missions consist of three rounds where teams have 2 ½ min. to complete at many mission modules as possible to score points.
Worcester County’s intermediate team, Tidal Tech, brought home first place for the second year, defeating four other teams from all over Maryland. Intermediate team members are 11-13 years of age. Tidal Tech consisted of Ko-
rbin Decker, Indy and Charlie Southword and Liam Bass and their Lego Spike Prime robot “Bobby.”
It has been a challenging year for the group as members learned to utilize textual coding with Python to program Bobby to complete missions. During the module rounds, team members scored 175 points by collecting fish, transporting them to the restaurant, returning some to the water, collecting trash and dumping it into the bin, placing pollinators correctly on the map, and parking the robot correctly.
On top of the technical and programing components, the intermediate team learned about the hazards of “ghost gear”. Ghost gear is fishing line and other abandoned fishing gear that can entangle animals or kill them if consumed. The team worked together to create collection tubes which they are working to distribute to local fishing spots. The team also created a website with a QR code so that everyone can better understand the dangers that ghost gear poses to wildlife.
The junior team, The Robotic Robots, brought home third place against four other teams from across the state. This group consisted of members from 8 to 10 years of age, none of whom had participated or coded before. The Robotic Robots members were Jane Calabrese, Kaylee Wainwright and Maxwell Turley
Teams grateful for donations
and their Spike Prime robot “Loki.” They completed several missions using block code; however, just as you would expect Loki to behave, the robot created much havoc and didn’t like to follow directions.
The team worked hard all summer, learning about invasive species and the importance of native wildflowers. The Robotic Robots provided community education at the Blessing of the Combines in Snow Hill and the Peach Festival in Berlin. They also worked with the community to create seed eggs to help spread native black-eyed susans and purple coneflowers.
The Worcester County 4-H Robotics Teams were the only teams from the Lower Eastern Shore to represent at the State Fair for the third year.
The teams expressed appreciation, saying, “We are thankful to all the people who made it possible for us to compete at the state level, including the generous donation of our three robots and extension kits by Mountaineer in 2023. We also want to thank the UMES Extension and the County 4-H staff, including Barb Barga, who has been a great support and resource for our teams. The Worcester County Robotic Club works in tandem with our Competition Teams to build understanding of robotics, coding, teamwork, and electronics.
“If you or your children are interested in finding out more about what 4-H offers, please contact Worcester County 4H extension in Snow Hill at 410-632-1972.”
Pictured, from left, are Mark DeMorra (UM state 4-H STEM specialist) and team members Kaylee Wainwright, Indy Southward, Korbin Decker, Liam Bass, Charlie Southward and Maxwell Turley. Not pictured was Jane Calabrese.
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SCHOOL SUPPLY DONATION
The members of Ocean City Firefighters & Paramedics–IAFF Local 4269 have announced their recent donation of school supplies to Ocean City Elementary School. The donation included backpacks, pencil cases, markers, lunch boxes, and headphones, all aimed at helping students start the school year with the tools they need to succeed. This initiative is part of Local 4269’s ongoing commitment to supporting the Ocean City community both in and out of uniform.
OC’s First Friday reception opens latest exhibits
(Sept. 5, 2025) The Art League of Ocean City invites the public to a free opening reception on First Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, 5-7 p.m., at the Ocean City Center for the Arts, 94th St. bayside. Admission is free, and all are welcome.
The Thaler Gallery hosts a special group show entitled “Roots & Remembrance” celebrating in art the culture and heritage of the Eastern Shore. The show is sponsored in part by a grant from the Beach to Bay Heritage Area. Artists were invited to submit work in all media that celebrates Delmarva’s unique way of life and landscape.
Special activities on First Friday include a demonstration of Eastern Shore lure and fly-tying by Greg Cwalina. September is also the Art League’s annual block party with hors d’oeuvres provided by Little Salisbury neighbors Lombardi’s Pizza and Blue Fish Restaurant. The block party includes live entertainment and fun activities for the kids.
In the Sisson Galleria, paintings created during the “Artists Paint OC Festival” continue their exhibit, featuring the best of the plein air painting competition. Many award-winning paintings are on display and available for purchase.
Studio E features artwork by mother and daughter Elaine and Rosie Bean. Elaine Bean presents “Paper Thin,” paper sculptures of a diversity of faces cast from handmade paper and embellished with natural objects. Rosie Bean’s “Southern Exposure” explores Southern moments in history through layered photographic images of iconic scenes.
The Schwab Spotlight hosts the paintings of Jim Rehak in September. Influenced by the Impressionists and artists of that tradition, Rehak paints mostly outdoors, directly from nature, capturing landscapes observed in natural light. He participates in paint-outs and plein air competitions and recently won an award in the 2025 “Artists Paint OC Festival.”
The Felber Artisan Showcase shows the creative mosaics of Lisa Scarbath. A resident artist at the Howard County Center for the Arts in Ellicott City and an instructor at the Ocean City Center for the Arts, she pivoted from previous careers as a lawyer and professor to become a full-time creative. Scarbath creates mixed-media mosaic wall art, decor, furniture, custom pieces, and public art projects.
Complimentary beverages for the First Friday reception are sponsored by Montgomery Financial.
The artwork of Aria Islam continues showing in the Burbage Staircase Gallery at the Arts Center. In the Art League’s satellite galleries, Sally Miller exhibits her work at the Coffee Beanery on 94th St. and Coastal Hwy. Jessica Schlegel shows her art in the Princess Royale.
Exhibits at the Arts Center and satellite galleries run through Sept. 27.
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Clean up efforts a priority of nature group in the Pines
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Sept. 5, 2025) The Ocean Pines Association’s Environmental and Natural Assets Advisory Committee wants to implement clean-up days to ensure the community stays tidy and its flora remains healthy.
The ENAC met on Wednesday, Aug. 27, when they discussed opportunities to enhance Ocean Pines. One suggestion was a fall clean-up day to address invasive vines such as wisteria and English ivy that can take over trees.
Patricia Garcia, committee chair, said that fellow group member Don Wolski recommended the autumn effort.
“There’s a lot of overgrowth along the Southgate Pond,” Garcia said at the recent ENAC meeting. “...English ivy will kill your trees. And wisteria, even worse. “
A clean-up to address the tree issue would likely be in mid- to late October or early November, as the vines are easier to spot and therefore remove when the trees begin to lose their leaves.
According to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, English ivy is an invasive climbing vine that can reach heights of 90 feet. Controlling English ivy is essential to maintaining a forested space. When an area experiences vine overgrowth, it can change food source and habitat for wildlife.
English ivy can also compromise the health of the affected trees. The vine blocks sunlight, hindering the photosynthesis process, weakens the tree’s structure with heavy weight and holds moisture and pathogens against the trunk, which can lead to rot and disease.
Wisteria is also detrimental to trees, according to the Maryland Invasive Species Council, as it can envelop the trees and block sunlight, ultimately preventing the tree from growing.
A day will likely be scheduled in the next few months for volunteers to help remove the intrusive vines.
The ENAC also discussed the possibility of holding a clean-up on April 22 next year, on Earth Day. Garcia said that the committee would like to secure help from around the community and its surrounding areas, including, once again, the Ocean City-based Beach Heroes.
Beach Heroes-OC is a group of volunteers who meet every Tuesday morning year-round to clean a portion of Ocean City. Around St. Patrick’s Day this year, the team helped tidy up the Ocean Pines Beach Club.
Garcia added that in addition to the two aforementioned clean-ups, she would like to see more regular efforts to keep the neighborhood neat.
“It’s pretty tidy here, but you do see places where people, especially near the retail areas, just toss cans and plastic cups and liquor bottles,” she said.
The association will communicate any updates or scheduling of the potential clean-up efforts as they become available.
David Dypsky
726-5020
Fund provides grants for area minority-led charities
(Sept. 5, 2025) The Black Excellence Community Fund, a Giving Circle of the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore, celebrated Black Philanthropy Month by awarding grants to three Lower Shore nonprofits at an evening dinner event on Aug. 23. The grants benefit Black-led local nonprofits which impact the quality of life for the local community.
Each organization received a $750 unrestricted grant for their work. Grantees were:
Minary’s Dream Alliance, Inc. provides opportunities for mentoring, tutoring, vocational training, and college readiness. MDA offers families and youth a safe, welcoming environment where they feel comfortable, not intimidated, and accepted for who they are.
UMES MADE empowers, inspires, and encourages the personal maturation and intellectual development of campus men through an array of activities and workshops aimed at promoting and providing access to
achievement in the areas of social responsibility, academics, and professional development.
Symphony 21 works to inspire, educate, and transform the lives of young people through the power of music and creative arts. Since 2017, Symphony 21 has exposed youth in rural areas to modern approaches to music, technology and visual arts.
Additionally, Joe Morse and Mary Gladys Jones were honored in recognition of their leadership and achievements as philanthropists in the local community.
BECF was created in 2022 at the Community Foundation to preserve cultural awareness and pride by expanding the benefits of education, health, and welfare in the Black Community, while teaching the values of philanthropy.
Members work together through the power of collective philanthropy to create a positive impact in the community.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
The Black Excellence Community Fund recently awarded three grants. Pictured, from left, are Lori Carter, BECF founding member; Sonya Whited, BECF founding member; Jermichael Mitchell, Minary’s Dream Alliance; Daniel Bowen, Symphony 21; Oscar Mejia Garcia, UMES MADE, Sharon Morris, BECF founding member.
Film Challenge winners earn bids for annual festival
(Sept. 5, 2025) The Ocean City Film Festival premiered entries from the 8th Annual Ocean City Film Challenge on Saturday, Aug. 23 on the 94th St. tennis courts and announced the winners. The three top films will be screened at the 10th Annual Ocean City Film Festival in March 2026.
Filmmakers were challenged to produce an original short film about Ocean City no longer than 10 minutes and made between July 1 and July 31. Films must have been shot in Ocean City or be about Ocean City and include a secret line of dialogue.
Nine entries were received in the challenge, and eight were selected to be screened. Special guest juror Ian Postley, who annually designs the official Ocean City Film Festival poster, selected the entries and winners.
The Film Challenge 2025 winners are:
First place: Ocean City Vacation Daze: A “Ken Burns” Film directed by the PAC 14 crew of Thomas Taylor, Chris Demone, Xavier Geraldes, and Steve Myers. This film is an homage to legendary documentarian Ken Burns as he takes us on a mock vacation with his family in Ocean City.
Second place: The Worst Gift in Ocean City directed by Holden Connor. A group of young girls seek out the worst gift in Ocean City.
Third place: Jolly and Gerald directed by Fiona O'Brien and Zoe Couloumbis. This silent film describes a brother duo. Jolly, beloved by the community, is known for opening the Jolly Roger Amusement Park at the Pier. Gerald is the one who makes things happen behind the scenes.
The Ocean City Film Festival and the Ocean City Film Challenge are programs of the nonprofit Art League of Ocean City. More information is available at OCart.org or by calling 410-524-9433.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Attendees to last month’s film challenge are pictured on the tennis courts near the Center for the Arts.
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Who’s Where When
BURLEY OAK BREWING COMPANY
443-513-4647
10016 Old Ocean City Blvd.,
Berlin
Sat., Sept. 6: Lovelight
Grateful Dead Tribute (Ticket Event)
BUXY’S SALTY DOG & DRY DOCK 28
410-289-BUXY
28th Street Coastal Hwy.
Fri., Sept. 5: Jack & T
CAPTAIN’S TABLE
410-289-7192
15th & Boardwalk
In The Courtyard Marriott Fridays & Saturdays: Phil Perdue
CARIBBEAN POOL BAR
410-289-6181
In The Plim Plaza Hotel 109 N. Atlantic Ave.
Fri., Sept. 5: TBA
Sat., Sept. 6: TBA
Sun., Sept. 7: TBA Mon., Sept. 8: TBA
COCONUTS BEACH BAR
410-289-6846
Oceanfront At Castle
In The Sand Hotel
37th & 38th Streets
Fri., Sept. 5: Opposite Directions & Royal Flush Band
Sat., Sept. 6: Kevin Poole & Joe Mama & Top Dead Center
Sun., Sept. 7: Rick & Regina & 33 RPM
Mon., Sept. 8: Nate Clendenen & All The Vibes Duo
Tues., Sept. 9: Jess Arms & Blissful Wizards
Wed., Sept. 10: Neil Helgeson & Lime Green Band
Thurs., Sept. 11: Jack Bannon & Kevin Poole & Joe Mama
COINS PUB
410-289-3100
28th Street Plaza
On Coastal Hwy.
Fri., Sept. 5: 33 RPM
Sat., Sept. 6: Jim Long Party & Saved By Zero
CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE
302-988-5000
37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54, Selbyville, DE
Fri., Sept. 5: Uncle Ward
Wed., Sept. 10: Steve Ports Duo
CRAWL STREET TAVERN
443-373-2756
Wicomico St., Downtown O.C.
Fri., Sept. 5: Johnny Cardo
Sat., Sept. 6: The Lucky Shoes
Wed., Sept. 10: Six Whiskey Revival
Thurs., Sept. 11: Mercury Agenda
FAGER’S ISLAND
410-524-5500
60th St., In The Bay
Fri., Sept. 5: Radio Head, DJ Stinson & Jumper
Sat., Sept. 6: Making Waves, The John Frase Project & DJ RobCee
Mon., Sept. 8: Cecilia’s Fall & DJ Stinson
Tues., Sept. 9: DJ RobCee
Wed., Sept. 10: Latin Night & DJ RobCee
Best Beats On The Beach
Seacrets: Tuesday & Wednesday, September 9 & 10
CHERRY CRUSH
JASON LEE
The Wedge: Sun., Sept. 7
JACK & T
Dry Dock 28: Friday, September 5
OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS
Coconuts Beach Bar: Friday, September 5
Harborside: Sunday, September 7
ON THE EDGE
Jolly Jellyfish Beach Club: Sunday, September 7
KEVIN POOLE& JOE MAMA
Coconuts Beach Bar: Saturday, September 6 & Thursday, September 11
SCHIZOPHRENIC BOOGIEMEN
The Wedge: Tuesday, September 9
AGENDA
Crawl Street Tavern: Thursday, September 11
LOST FIGURES
Pickles Pub: Saturday, September 6
Harborside: Sunday, September 7
Jolly Jellyfish Beach Club: Tuesday, September 9
RED NOT CHILI PEPPERS
Seacrets: Thursday, September 11
Who’s Where When
Thurs., Sept. 11: Petty Coat Junction, DJ Groove & High Voltage
FISH TALES
410-289-0990
22nd St., & Bay
Thurs., Sept. 11: Blake Haley & DJ Wax
GREENE TURTLE WEST
410-213-1500
Route 611, West OC
Fri., Sept. 5: TBA
HARBORSIDE
410-213-1846
South Harbor Rd., West End O.C.
Fridays: DJ Billy T Sat., Sept. 6: The Dunehounds & DJ Bigler
Sun., Sept. 7: Opposite Directions & Lost Figures
Wednesdays: DJ Billy T
Thursdays: Dust N Bones & DJ Billy T All Day
JOLLY JELLYFISH BEACH CLUB 443-664-6147
98th Street Coastal Hwy.,
Plaza Condominium
Fri., Sept. 5: Monkee Paw Duo
Sat., Sept. 6: Cup Of Joe Sun., Sept. 7: On The Edge
Mondays: First Class
Tues., Sept. 9: Lost Figures
Wednesdays: Joe Mama & Friends
Thursdays: Beach Bandits
PICKLES PUB
410-289-4891
8th St. & Philadelphia Ave.
Fridays: Beats By DeoGee
Sat., Sept. 6: Lost Figures
Sundays: Beats By Styler
Mondays: Karaoke w/ Wood
Tuesdays: Beats By Wax
Wednesdays: Beats By Madame Dutchess
Thursdays: Beats By Connair
PURPLE MOOSE SALOON
410-289-6953
Between Caroline & Talbot Sts. On The Boards Fri. & Sat., Sept. 5. & 6: Under The Covers
Mon., Sept. 8: DJ Papi Wed., Sept. 10: Doc Marten & The Flannels
Thurs., Sept. 11: Tripwire
SEACRETS
410-524-4900
49th St. & Coastal Hwy. Fri, Sept. 5: 4 DJs, John McNutt Duo, Vertigo Red & Turning The Tide Sat., Sept. 6: 5 DJs, Whiskeyhickon Boys, Turning The Tide & My Hero Zero
Sun., Sept. 7: DJ Davie
Mon., Sept. 8: DJ Davie, The Gab Cinque & DJ Wax
Tues., Sept. 9: Cherry Crush Band & DJ J-Spins
Wed., Sept. 10: DJ Estate
Thurs., Sept. 11: Triple Trail Turn, DJ Davie, Obey Your Mother (Metallica Tribute) & Red Not Chili Peppers
THE WEDGE
410-289-5121
806 S. Atlantic Ave.
Sun., Sept. 7: Jason Lee
Thurs., Sept. 11: Joe Esham
MERCURY
Burley Oak: Saturday, September 6 (Ticket Event)
DOC MARTEN & THE FLANNELS Purple Moose: Wednesday, September 10
Dining Guide
■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$
■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted
DOWNTOWN
South end to 28th Street
■ BUXY’S SALTY DOG SALOON
DRY DOCK 28
28th Street, Ocean City, 410-289-0973, buxys.com, drydockoc.com
Destiny has a new home in Ocean City. From the ‘burgh to the beach, Buxy’s is your home away from Pittsburgh. Come see what all the locals already know and have known – Buxy’s is the place to come to meet friends, relax and be social with no attitudes. House specialties include “The” Cheesesteak Sub, Primanti-styled sandwiches, pierogis, egg-rolls and homemade crab dip. Dry Dock also features a full menu with soups, salads, kick starters, pierogis and craft pizza.
■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE
15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, in The Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City 410-2897192, captainstableoc.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
A local tradition for over 60 years featuring hand cut steaks, premium lobster and perfectly prepared regional seafood. Breakfast daily 7:30-11 a.m. Open daily for dinner: Sunday through Thursday, 4-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4-10 p.m. Happy Hour, seven days a week, 4-6 p.m.
■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT
28th Street Plaza and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100, www.coinspuboc.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
American style local restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 25:30 p.m. Sunday’s early bird specials, all day and all night. Happy Hour; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. with food and drink specials. Open Monday through Friday, 2 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 11:30 a.m. Dine-in, carry out.
■ CORAL REEF RESTAURANT & BAR
17th Street in the Holiday Inn & Suites, Ocean City 410-289-2612, coralreefrestaurant.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Enjoy traditional Eastern Shore cuisine and local favorites that are sure to please your entire party! Choose from a selection of house specialty entrees such as sharables, handhelds and seafood. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Featuring specialty rums. Open daily, 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
■ CRAWL STREET
19 Wicomico St., Ocean City, 443-373-2756, crawlstreet.com
Established in 2020 just a short walk from the legendary Cork Bar. Don’t leave without trying the famous wings, but everything on the menu is solid, including flatbreads, tacos, salads, sandwiches and seafood platters. Be sure to check out the live music offerings as the nightlife is top of the line.
■ DISTRICT 24 CRAFT BAR, JAY’S CAFÉ & BLU CRABHOUSE & RAW BAR
2305 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City 410-2893322, district24oc.com
There is more at District 24. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, pastries and coffee at Jay’s Cafe. CRAFT Pizza, Beer & Cocktails at CRAFT Lounge. Fresh Seafood at BLU Crabhouse & Raw Bar. Enjoy an elevated dining experience with great chophouse dishes and charcuterie boards, along with a Wine Spectator Award Wining Wine Menu at Embers Rooftop Restaurant. There is something for everyone at District 24 like live music in the courtyard, mini golf, arcade play and axe throwing.
■ FISH TALES
2107 Herring Way, Ocean City, 410-289-0990, ocfishtales.com
Bayfront marina dining offered here with a huge menu to satisfy guests of all ages. Enjoy a drink from a hanging chair or fish tacos at your table while the kids play in a playground build in the sand. Food and drink menus offer enough of a variety to meet all needs.
■ HARBOR WATCH
806 S. Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City 410-2895121, www.harborwatchrestaurant.com
$$-$$$ | Reservations | Kids’ Menu | Full bar
Celebrating our 41st anniversary with fresh seafood, an award-winning raw bar, mouthwatering steaks and the best view of the Ocean City Inlet and Assateague Island. Open every day. Monday through Wednesday open at 4 p.m. Thursday through Sunday open at 11:30 a.m. Call for banquet and large-party details.
■ PICKLES PUB
706 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 410-2894891, picklesoc.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Easy to find with plenty of free parking, serving lunch, dinner and entire diverse menu until 1 a.m. Also nightly entertainment year-round and a great place to watch all the sports on an ocean of televisions including a giant high-def screen. Also four pool tables on site. Lunch and dinner and entire menu until 1 a.m. Open all year from 11:30 a.m.-2 a.m., seven days a week.
■ PIT & PUB
2706 Philadelphia Ave. and 12701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, pitandpub.com
Ocean City’s home of Pulled Pork and the finest barbecue, the legendary 28th Street Pit & Pub and the Northside Pit & Pub are known for serving up delicious smokehouse specialties. Grab a brew and enjoy the live sports action on one of the big screen TVs. Happy hour daily. Familyfriendly atmospheres at both locations. Weekend entertainment.
■ THE WEDGE BAR
806 S. Atlantic Ave, Ocean City, www.thewedgeoc.com
$-$$ | Full bar
Panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, bay and Assateague Island. Enjoy small plates, sandwiches and grilled burgers. Open every day, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
MIDTOWN
to 90th streets
■ 32 PALM
32nd Street in The Hilton, Ocean City 410-2892525, 32palm.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Elevated cuisine, locally sourced ingredients and allocated spirits are prominently featured in our lounge and dining room. Open year-round for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Routinely updated menus with the highest quality local ingredients for fresh seafood any time of the year!
■ THE BONFIRE
71st Street, Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, 410-5247171, thebonfirerestaurant.com
Celebrating more than 50 years as the best seafood and prime rib buffet in Ocean City. It’s all here – the service, the atmosphere and finest, freshest seafood available and quality meats. Save room for the decadent desserts available as well including homemade donuts.
■ COCONUTS BEACH BAR & GRILL
3701 Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 410-289-6846, castleinthesand.com
A tropical open-air patio steps from the beach. A unique place for lunch or dinner with a menu featuring all the customary items and a few Ocean City-based surprises. Guests can also enjoy beach service for lunch and cocktails. Be sure to check out the daily entertainment schedule.
■ FAGERS ISLAND
201 60th St., Ocean City, 410-524-5500, fagers.com
$$ | Full bar
Dine on the island with an award-winning bayfront restaurant featuring American & Regional dining with a global influence and popular destination featuring impeccably prepared American and Pacific Rim cuisine. Also enjoy our outdoor decks and bar with live entertainment and 32 wines by the glass. A place where the joy of food & the presence of the table are of utmost importance. Dine on fresh seafood and our famous Prime Rib. Enjoy beautiful sunsets over the water. Open 11 a.m. daily. Fine dine at 4:30 p.m.
■ HOOKED
8003 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410-7234665, hookedoc.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
A Common Ground Hospitality concept, a passion driven restaurant group servicing the coastal community. The goal is honor creativity and innovation by design. With passion at the heart of everything, unique dining concepts are paired with honest hospitality and well-made food sourced with fresh local ingredients and seasonal harvests. Craft and full bar available. Open daily 11:30 a.m.
■ LONGBOARD CAFÉ
6701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 443-6645693, longboardcafe.com
$$-$$$ | Full bar
Casual Dining … Refined. Open for lunch and dinner. A wide range of gourmet burgers, innovative tacos, salads and sandwiches to full dinner entrees featuring fresh local fish prepared in a variety of styles, beef, shellfish and pasta. All our sauces, salsas, dressings, etc. are meticulously house made. We use fresh local sources wherever possible and premium ingredients such as our chuck, brisket and short rib custom blended burgers. Closed Tuesday. Call for reservations.
■ MARLIN MOON RESTAURANT
3301 Atlantic Ave., in the Double Tree Hotel, Ocean City 410-289-1201, marlinmoonocmd.com
$$ | Full bar
Winner of the Maryland People's choice award, Marlin Moon continues to offer its famous, locally loved dishes and famous happy hour. Enjoy creatively crafted cocktails, fresh selections from the raw bar and luscious desserts. Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m., featuring drink specials. Breakfast, 7:30-11:30 a.m.; Lite Fare, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Dinner, 4-10 p.m.; and Bar open noon to 11 p.m.
■ SEACRETS
49th Street, Ocean City 410-524-4900, www.seacrets.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Open Sunday through Friday at 11 a.m., 10 a.m. on Saturdays, close at 2 a.m. Enjoy a tropical atmosphere and dine under the palms in our outdoor, kid friendly dining area or try a Seacrets Beachin' Cocktails in the Bay with live music every day open to close. The club is open every night in the summer. Try our famous jerk chicken with homemade honey mustard sauce, Pushcart Trio, a true Jamaican dish or a hearty wrap, sandwich or delicious burger. We have it all at Seacrets.
■ ALBERTINO'S BRICK OVEN & EATERY
13117 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410-2502000, albertinosoc.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Featuring the best brick oven pizza, always handmade with fresh ingredients, Italian-American mouth-watering seafood specialties, traditional Italian pasta dishes, apps, soups and salads. Full bar with large local craft beer selection.
■ CAROUSEL OCEANFRONT HOTEL & CONDOS
118th Street, Ocean City 800-641-0011, www.carouselhotel.com
The Carousel Oceanfront Resort offers a family friendly casual dining experience with their Reef 118 restaurant. Offering dinner Thursday through Saturday from 5-9 p.m., featuring AYCE Crab legs. Serving breakfast on Fridays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. Their new "Go for 2" happy hour features $10 appetizers as a buy one get one free. $1 oysters during all open hours.
■ THE CRAB BAG
13005 Coastal Highway Ocean City, 410-2503337, thecrabbag.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Featuring consistent hot steamed crabs, eat in or carryout. The Crab Bag is also an Eastern Shore style seafood house specializing in preparing and serving the biggest and the best blue crabs available. The extensive menu promises something for everyone. Winter hours, Friday-Sunday, open 11 a.m.
■ CRABCAKE FACTORY USA
120th Street, oceanside, Ocean City, 410-2504900, crabcakefactoryusa.com
Full-service family restaurant, carry-out and sports bar. Outside seating available. Menu selections include prime rib, chicken Chesapeake, steamed shrimp, beer battered fish, real Philly cheesesteaks, burgers, and a kids menu. Casual attire, full liquor bar, no reservations. Open Year Round. World-Famous Crabcakes are served all day starting at 8 a.m. and can be packed on ice for you while you are eating breakfast.
■ JOLLY JELLYFISH BEACH CLUB
9800 Coastal Highway, Ocean City 443-6646147, jollyjellyfishbeachclub.com
Oceanfront bar with casual island style outdoor dining with awesome ocean views focused on cool beach vibes. Open for lunch and dinner and suitable for the entire family. Diverse menu available for every type of diner and featuring a cocktail menu with six housemade kegged cocktails. Every Sunday all summer features a “big deck energy party.” Entertainment daily, 4-7 p.m. Located in the Plaza Condominium with plenty of free parking.
■ VISTA ROOFTOP RESTAURANT
13801 Coastal Highway, located in the Fenwick Inn, Ocean City, 410-390-7905, vistarooftopoc.com
$$-$$$ | Full bar
Enjoy a wonderful meal overlooking the ocean and bay. Some of the most unique views in Ocean City. Steaks, seafood, burgers, soups, salads and lite fare. Happy hour, 3-6 p.m. New this year is a boozy brunch Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Live music.
FENWICK ISLAND
■ CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE
Route 54, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-988-5000, CCFBayside.com
Same award-winning crab cakes and bloody marys. Enjoy waterfront dining. Full-service family restaurant, carry-out & sports bar. Outside seating available. Open daily year-round. Menu selections include crab cakes, prime rib, Philly-style
cheese steaks, various seafood, kids menu plus full breakfast menu.
■ DIRTY HARRY’S
100 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island, DE, 302539-3020, Beach-net.com/dirtyharrys
$ | Kids’ Menu | Full bar
Don’t let the name fool you, the food is home cooking at its finest. Owned and operated by Ginny Swann and family for 19 years. Popular for the breakfast but getting rave reviews for lunch and dinner, too.
■ NANTUCKETS
Route 1, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-539-2607, nantucketsrestaurant.com
Serving the beach great food and spirits for over 30 years. David and Janet Twining will wow you with the finest foods and drinks in the area. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by what one of the coast’s finest dining establishments has in store for guests. Everything here is a house specialty.
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.
■ ASSATEAGUE BAR AND GRILL 9636 Stephen Decatur Highway, West Ocean City 443-664-8158, abarngrill.com
$$ | Full bar
Full service, family friendly, casual dining to please everyone. Offering breakfast lunch and dinner with breakfast being served all day. Classic American cuisine with a selection of delicious Maryland favorites. Happy hour everyday from 16 p.m. with bar specials and tasty bites. Daily specials Monday through Friday. Dine-in and carry-out.
■ BREAKFAST CAFE
12736 Ocean Gateway, Route 50 east, West Ocean City, 410-213-1804, breakfastcafeofoc.com
All the traditional breakfast options available here in a casual, diner setting. Open daily closing at 2 p.m.
■ CANTINA LOS AGAVES MEXICAN GRILL 12720 Ocean Gateway #7, West Ocean City 410-390-3914, cantinalosagaves.com
$$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar
Ocean City’s newest Mexican restaurant and bar. Offering delicious and generous portions of the tastiest traditional and not so traditional #MexicanEats you have ever tried. Open daily at 11 a.m. Serving food until 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Bar open til 11 p.m.
■ DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND
West Ocean City: Route 50 east; Boardwalk locations: 501 S. Philadelphia Ave., 49th Street, 123rd Street, Ocean City, dumsersdairyland.com
This classic ice cream shop is a tradition for many families. Voted O.C.’s “Best Ice Cream” for the past 20 years, Dumser’s is celebrating decades of serving the shore, and the ‘40s-style décor takes you back in time. With locations throughout Ocean City, treating your tastebuds to this signature homemade ice cream is easy. The 123rd Street location offers lunch and dinner menus in addition to a wide variety of ice cream treats.
■ GREENE TURTLE WEST Route 611, West Ocean City, 410-213-1500
Proudly serving West Ocean City since January 1999, The Greene Turtle features a beautiful 80seat dining room, large bar area with 54 TVs with stereo sound and game room with pool tables. With an exciting menu, The Greene Turtle is sure to please with delicious sizzling steaks, jumbo lump crab cakes, raw bar, homemade salads and more. Live entertainment, Keno, Turtle apparel, kids menu, carry-out.
■ HARBORSIDE BAR & GRILL
12841 Harbor Rd., West Ocean City, 410-2131846, weocharborside.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Home of the original Orange Crush drink with an extensive menu offers a wide variety of appetizers, fresh seafood, steak & pasta entrees, as well as juicy burgers and sandwiches. Whether seeking a full dining experience or just a crush or two, the team will be sure to take excellent care of you and yours. Monday-Wednesday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thursday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. ■ OC DINER 12744 Ocean Gateway, Rt 50 east, Ocean City, 410-390-5112
Family owned for over 25 years. Serving the best homemade food. Local’s favorite. Breakfast served all day. Kids’ menu. Dine-in and carry-out. Open 7 days a week.
UPTOWN 91st to 146th streets
WEST OCEAN CITY
Conference planned
Women Supporting Women is holding a Young Survivor Conference on Sept. 20 for young breast cancer survivors at the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore. The aim of this event is to provide support and guidance to young survivors seeking resources, insights, and support.
The conference will feature three esteemed guest speakers covering topics such as oncology, mental health, fertility, and women’s health. Red Bird Legacy Foundation will be present as a vendor offering additional resources and support. Attendees will receive a complimentary breakfast.
Registration is free for this conference, but space is limited. To register visit the WSW office or call at 410548-7880.
Annual crab feast set
The Church of the Holy Spirit on Coastal Highway at 100th Street is having its annual all-you-can-eat crab feast on Sept. 28 from 2-5 p.m. (food will be served till 4:30). The crabs, medium-large to large, will be supplied by Rippon’s Seafood. There will also be fried chicken from Higgins Crab House, not to mention corn on
the cob, hush puppies, drinks and desserts.
The cost is $50 for people over 12, $20 for people aged 6 to 12 and free for people under 6. If you can’t stay, you can get an order to go home with you. Takeout orders include six crabs, two pieces of chicken, corn on the cob, hush puppies, a drink and dessert.
And if crabs and chicken aren’t enough of a draw, there will also be a chance auction for assorted items, a 50-50 and a raffle for a pool party.
Limited tickets will be available at the door, but advance sales are always welcome by calling Monica at 443-235-8942.
Refunds will be provided only if the event is cancelled.
Student art featured
More than 250 students from five elementary schools in Worcester County participated in the Worcester County Arts Council’s annual Summer Arts Camp, which this year explored the theme: “Life on the Eastern Shore.”
Through hands-on, visual and performing arts workshops, students had an opportunity to learn about the heritage of Eastern Shore farming and agriculture, as well as the ocean and underwater life that are for which the
region is known.
The results of these workshops are on display at the Worcester County Arts Council Gallery at 6 Jefferson Street in Berlin, where an opening reception will take place from 4-6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12.
“We are so proud of the talent and imagination our young artists bring to the Summer Arts Camp each year,” said Anna Mullis, executive director of the Worcester County Arts Council.
“This year’s theme, ‘Life on the Eastern Shore,’ allowed students to reflect on the beauty, traditions, and community spirit of the place they call home - from farms and fields to the ocean and bay. Their artwork truly tells the story of Worcester County through their eyes.”
The Arts Council thanked Worcester County Public Schools and its art teachers whose support made it possible to reach a diverse population of students through this enrichment program.
The Summer Arts Camp program is made possible through the support of the Ocean City/Berlin Optimist Club. The exhibit will remain on view through the end of September.
To see images of the students’ work and a video of the performing arts workshop, visit: www.worcestercountyartscouncil.org.
KIDS
of the Summer
College app season begins for Worcester Prep seniors
(Sept. 5, 2025) The Worcester Prep Class of 2026 hit the ground running this month in preparation for their college application season this fall.
Rising seniors participated in a four-day College Application & Essay Writing Workshop held in the Guerrieri Library, organized by the WPS Office of College Counseling. During the workshop, students engaged in oneon-one sessions with Kelly Hawse, the WPS director of college counseling.
Student focused on writing and reviewing college applications and essays, as well as refining their college lists. In addition, college admissions representatives shared valuable in-
sights and practical advice on the importance of effective communication with colleges and how to convey their unique stories through authentic and well-crafted personal statements.
Admissions representatives Jeff Smith from the University of Tennessee, Carlee Berkenkemper from Washington College, Charles Overholt from Salisbury University, Kiara Alexander from the University of Pittsburgh, and Abigail Trice from the University of Maryland guided students through a mock application review, providing key insights that helped clarify how admissions applications are evaluated.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Rising seniors collaborated with WPS Director of College Counseling Kelly Hawse, standing center, and college admissions representatives during the annual College Application & Essay Writing Workshop at Worcester Prep. Representatives included Jeff Smith (University of Tennessee), Carlee Berkenkemper (Washington College), Abigail Trice (University of Maryland), Charles Overholt (Salisbury University), and Kiara Alexander (University of Pittsburgh).
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Seniors Emily Patrowicz, Catherine Cullen and Anisha Batra reunited with smiles at the annual College Application & Essay Writing Workshop at Worcester Prep.
by Steve Green
TThe Adventures of Fatherhood
enth grade and 12th grade.
I spent most of Tuesday just sitting with the weight of it all — this moment in time, this transition, this new school year. I kept thinking: How did we get here so quickly?
This school year feels heavier than usual — especially for Beckett. It’s his senior year at Worcester Preparatory School. That sentence doesn’t seem real. I’m not sure when the little boy became a young man who’s planning his next chapter, but here we are.
He’s ready, no doubt about it. Like many teens his age, he’s looking forward to life after high school — the independence, the new experiences, the freedom. He’s ready to step away from the school that’s been his home for the past 14 years. For him, Worcester Prep isn’t just a school — it’s a part of his identity, a place that’s shaped him from the beginning. Today, he has mixed emotions about the long journey he has had there. Letting go of that will be bittersweet, but I admire the way he’s leaning into what’s ahead.
For me, though, it’s hard not to feel the weight of the moment. These "lasts" are starting — the last first day of school photo in front of the house, the last soccer season, the last round of classes with the teachers who have watched him grow up. It’s a slow march toward the next chapter, and while I’m incredibly proud, there’s a kind of quiet ache underneath it all.
At the same time, we’re walking a different, equally meaningful journey with Carson, our youngest, who just started 10th grade. The idea that the “baby” of the house is in high school now is almost impossible to believe. And yet, he’s growing up, too — in his own unique way, at his own pace.
As Carson has gotten older, his special needs and differences — the things that make him who he is — have become more noticeable. In some ways, that’s been helpful, because it allows us
to better advocate for him and support him. In other ways, it brings challenges into sharper focus. We’ve stopped trying to decide whether it’s a good or bad thing. It just is. It’s our reality. And we’ve learned to meet it with as much patience, love, and flexibility as we can.
This week, we had a wonderful start to the school year — something we never take for granted.
First days have always been full of anticipation in our house, but for years, they’ve also brought anxiety and uncertainty — especially when it came to Carson’s drop-off. I still remember the seventh-grade drop-off that left a lasting mark on us. Carson was overwhelmed — emotionally and physically distraught at the idea of separating from us. He cried, clung to us, even lashed out. It was rough, an experience non-special needs parents do not understand. That morning taught us a hard lesson: doing school drop-off together wasn’t going to work. It was too intense for Carson, and for us. We learned to divide and conquer. From that day on, I’ve taken on that responsibility solo.
There have been other rocky first days over the years. Some involved meltdowns, some involved refusals to go into the building, and others were filled with worry about what the day would bring. But not this year.
This year was different — in all the best ways.
When I walked into Carson’s room at 6:45 a.m., I found him in his bathroom, already putting on his clothes. No reminders. No prompts. He was just doing it. That might not seem like a big deal to some, but for us, it was monumental. We had talked in advance about the routine, coming off the slower pace of summer. We made sure Carson had input on how the mornings would go, letting him make some choices to give him a sense of control. It worked. He owned it. That’s a win in every sense.
And there’s more: the week before school started, Pam had the great idea to get him back into the building. He got to walk his schedule, meet his new one-
on-one aide, reconnect with his special education team, and get reacquainted with the school environment. That hour turned out to be incredibly valuable — it lowered his anxiety and gave him a sense of familiarity before the official first day. We’ve learned over time that preparing Carson is key to his success. When he knows what to expect, he thrives.
And thrive he did.
He had a fantastic first day at Stephen Decatur High School, where he spends his mornings in core academic classes. Then we pick him up and drive him to Worcester Tech, where he’s enrolled in a digital audio and video production class. It's the perfect fit for him — handson, creative, structured yet flexible. Watching him transition between schools with calm and confidence was something we once only hoped for. Now it’s happening.
Our goal is always the same: to help Carson stay settled, focused, and in control of himself. That’s our north star. And I’m thrilled to say — at least this week — he’s in a really good place.
It’s hard to fully explain what it means to see both of our boys — one on the cusp of adulthood and the other stepping more confidently into his high school years — begin this school year on the right foot. There have been so many days filled with struggle, confusion, trialand-error, and heartache. But there have also been days like these — days filled with hope, pride, and quiet triumphs.
To every parent out there sending their kids off to school — whether it’s kindergarten or senior year — I hope your week was as strong as ours. And if it wasn’t, that’s okay too. The school year is long, and every day is a chance to try again.
Here’s to the milestones that sneak up on us all.
(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.)
Holiday’s passing brings on surfing season for area
By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer
(Sept. 5, 2025) Last week’s column emphasized Hurricane Erin and the possibility of a surf season or lack thereof. At this juncture maybe a change of thought is appropriate. That change would be that, yes, there is a surf season.
Although the surf can happen at any time of the year, let’s assume that there is a surf season, or at least a time of year when the possibility is more favorable. There are a few factors that come to mind in a period of late summer to late fall. For ease of thinking let’s refer to it as the “fall/surf season” or roughly September, October, and November. Hurricane season is technically June through November in the North Atlantic. This increases swell possibility with storms hopefully staying out to sea and not directly affecting land. Statistically the second week in September is the height of the season.
Water temperatures will stay relatively warm throughout this period. Usually it peaks in the mid to high 70’s in August and will drop through the 60’s and 50’s even up to January. Another major factor is the beginning of the school year and a return to classes from elementary to college level. Hours of surfing restriction will cease, generally sometime in early September when surfing is allowed at any time. There are even days when surfing hours, before 10 a.m. and after 5:30 p.m., can become modified. This can coincide with lifeguard staff being reduced with many guards returning to school and the idea of having more floatation devices in the water, namely surfboards and surfers. Many times a surfer helped a swimmer in trouble safely back to the beach.
So maybe there is a fall/surf season. At any rate, and for many reasons, it’s probably the best time of the year.
Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City
CRAFTS SEASON
WRAPS UP
The Art League of Ocean City concluded its summer Free Saturday Kids’ Craft Program on Aug. 30 with children doing printmaking projects. In total, more than 425 children and families participated in the annual free program at the Ocean City Center for Arts that served to inspire both locals and visiting children with unique projects every week. At right is Daniel Carr of Hagerstown.
SUBMITTED PHOTOS/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH
of
of
LANE UNIT J OCEAN CITY
Jeffrey Miranda of Staten Island, N.Y.
Sienna Fernandez of Alexandria, Va.
Bennet Freiji of Ocean City
Brian Hryriezysyzn
Barrington, N.J.
Avery of Perry Hall
Bella Hryriezysyzn
Barrington, N.J.
vanishing vanishing OCEAN CITY
With Bunk Mann
Postmarked Aug. 2, 1927, this postcard illustrates how much Ocean City has changed in 90 years. The Boardwalk was raised far above the beach in those days and on hot days bathers would seek shade under it. Some would plan a picnic lunch under the Boardwalk with the smell of creosote, damp wood and wet sand a luncheon companion.
The beach was narrow and waves reached almost to the Boardwalk on high tide. When storms rolled up the coast, the beach would literally disappear. The beach would remain narrow until the creation of the Inlet in 1933 and the construction of the north jetty allowed sand to build up on the south end of town.
The view above looks north from North 1st Street. The tower in the background marked the site of the Plimhimmon Hotel while the tower in the foreground belonged to the Rideau. Neither of these historic hotels exist today. The suits worn by the bathers were typical of that era.
Things I Like...
By Steve Green
Fish cooked on the grill
A nap on a pool float
First week of the NFL season
A weekend of shorts and T-shirts
Watching active bird feeders
Observing a pontoon boat party
A young kid eating an ice cream cone
A nice night rain to help the lawn
Remembering Caffe Café in north OC
How every butterfly is unique
A smooth insurance claim
To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com.
Postcard from Bunk Mann’s collection
Find a stand before taking a swim
By Kristin Joson Contributing Writer
(Sept. 5, 2025) Although Labor Day signals the traditional close of summer, it also marks the beginning of what the Ocean City Beach Patrol calls “fall guarding.”
While many think of the season as winding down, we know there are still plenty of warm, sunny days ahead that will draw visitors to the beach. With these lateseason crowds, our mission of keeping swimmers safe continues. However, fall guarding brings unique challenges compared to the peak summer months, and it’s important for beachgoers to understand how conditions and safety precautions may change.
During this period, we are in a reduced coverage mode with fewer lifeguard towers and surf rescue technicians patrolling the beach. We had already lost over 70% of our seasonal staff of 215 a full week before Labor Day. This reduction in personnel is an annual occurrence with the start of college classes and the return of our education professionals to school systems throughout the U.S. and this year it was even earlier due to Labor Day being the earliest it can ever be (Sept. 1). These teachers are some of our most experienced SRTs and mostly in supervisory roles on the beach. However, now that Labor Day has passed, we have lost most of our educators during weekdays, although many will return to help cover our beaches on weekends. The Town of Ocean City is committed to providing the safest beaches possible until the end of each season and has provided several incentives, including a travel stipend to offset the cost of traveling back to Ocean City for our Surf Rescue Technicians who have moved away, so they can provide additional coverage.
Additionally, tropical storm activity in the Atlantic is usually at its peak during this time, Erin was proof of this, and contributes to rougher surf, which has been an issue these past few weeks as tropical activity entered the Mid-Atlantic basin. This heavy surf causes an increase in the frequency and severity of rip currents, which account for 95 percent of surf rescues. With fewer guards on the beach and stands that are farther apart, a guard may have to run four blocks or more (as far as 800 meters or ½ mile) to rescue a victim if the swimmer needs help and the SRT was able see them clearly, whereas in the summer they need only run 50 meters. To increase safety and coverage of the beach, the beach patrol will rely more heavily
on its motorized support vehicles to patrol between stands (The Town has increased our ATV fleet to assist with coverage). This enables them to provide back up if the need should arise, compared to the summer when the SRT in the stand on both sides of the rescue are responsible to back up the rescue and give support if needed. Additionally, each Surf Rescue Technician will be issued a hand-held radio as well as binoculars to assist with coverage of the area between stands (the use of semaphore at these distances becomes less effective).
Although we have less available personnel, the beach patrol remains committed to provide surf rescue technicians along the entire beach
for all visitors and residents. So rather than have unguarded areas, the number of available lifeguard towers are equally distributed along the beachfront. While nearby beaches in Delaware and Assateague are unguarded, have reduced hours and days or where the guarded area is reduced to just a few blocks. As this redistribution occurs, the location and distance between stands changes (sometimes daily). We will continue to provide coverage from 10 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. along all 10 miles of Ocean City beaches until Sunday, September 21st. This coverage will be done with fewer personnel and lifeguard stands; however, the increased number of mobile res-
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LATENIGHTHAPPYH
9:30PM
cue units patrolling the beach will provide added coverage. These mobile units are first aid, PPE 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 mobile rescue unit (ATV) certified annually. Surfing locations is another difference you may notice during the fall season. OCBP Captain Arbin will modify the ordinance that restricts surfing and allow surfing along the entire beach, except where guards are posted. The beach patrol keeps the swimmers in front or near their stand and surfers are encouraged to congregate away from the swimmers. This is a time of the year the surfers enjoy. They can surf while the patrol is on duty and not be confined to designated surfing beaches like during the summer.
Surfers must still utilize an ankle leash and remain 50 yards from the nearest swimmer. Having surfers in the vicinity often proves valuable in saving lives. It is helpful to have the extra flotation devices in the water at this time of year when the coverage is spread over larger spans of beach. It is not unusual for surfers to aid a distressed swimmer and keep them
afloat until a surf rescue technician can reach them and take them safely back to shore. Remember that if you need our assistance and are between two stands the SRT may have needed to run quite a distance before swimming out to help you, if they are able to determine you need assistance at this distance.
Although surfing restrictions have been modified, the beach patrol still reserves the right to prohibit surfing in certain areas or under certain conditions. Another difference is the standup paddle board rule. Beginning the Monday following Labor Day, September 8th, Stand-up Paddle Boards (SUPs) will be allowed, Monday through Friday during the day. Stand up Paddle boarders must follow all applicable Maryland state boating laws and enter and exit the water away from the areas where we are encouraging people to swim. The use of skim boards and other watercraft (kite surfers, windsurfers, prone paddle boards, kayaks, etc) is still prohibited by City ordinance (law).
Even though fall guarding looks a little different than July or mid-August, the Ocean City Beach Patrol’s top priority is always your safety. To help our Surf Rescue Technicians do their job, we ask that you take a few extra precautions. Please take the short walk to the nearest lifeguard
stand, check in with the guard about daily ocean conditions, and always swim in front of the stand that’s staffed. We also encourage everyone to only enjoy the beach and ocean when guards are on duty, never swim alone, stay within your ability, and remember that flotation devices are not a substitute for swimming skills. Keep in mind that even if you see a guard from several blocks away, they may not see you clearly and if you do need help, it will take them longer to reach you. Finally, if you spot an unsafe situation, call 911 right away, but never attempt a rescue yourself. With your help and
awareness, we can all enjoy a safe and beautiful fall season at the beach
For additional information, please call Beach Patrol Headquarters. Guard stand placement may relocate daily as conditions change. To locate the closest stand to your beach you may go to the official Beach Patrol website: (www.oceancitymd.gov/beachpatrol) and scroll down to the “Beach Conditions” table and click on the stands location link or by calling Beach Patrol Headquarters at 410289-7556 between the hours of 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
You’re feeling bold this week, Aries. Use a surge of energy to speak out about something that needs to be said. Be mindful of how others may receive it.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
Stability and home life are in the spotlight, Taurus. You may be called to handle something domestic or financial. Use your natural patience to avoid impulsive decisions.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Gemini, conversations will flow with ease this week, and you’ll be a magnet for interesting ideas. If you have been waiting to pitch an idea, do it right now.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Cancer, you may assess your value right now, both financially and emotionally. An important decision requires you to have a level head. It’s a great week to update a budget.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
This week invites you to step into the spotlight, Leo. This is just where you like to be. Don’t be afraid to own your power and reveal something personal to friends and family.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
Virgo, you are more introspective than usual. Take time to reflect and recharge this week. Old memories or unfinished business might resurface and you have to face it head on.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Your social life picks up, and someone in your network may present a useful opportunity. Be open to collaboration, Libra. Just don’t say yes to too many things at once.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
Currently your ambition is in focus and others are noticing, Scorpio. A professional opportunity may come your way, but don’t rush the details. Trust your intuition when negotiating.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
You are craving inspiration and something new, Sagittarius. This is the week to explore new ideas, travel or study something interesting. A philosophical discussion might come up.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Capricorn, change is in the air whether you invite it or it finds you. Emotional matters may require some extra attention right now.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
Aquarius, all of your partnerships are going smoothly right now. You may need to readjust your expectations to reflect your productivity. A turning point comes into play midweek.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
Think about looking at your daily habits, Pisces. Figure out if anything needs to be tweaked. You need to take care of yourself and prioritize your health.
Eggs Benedict, with a shore twist
By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer
(Sept. 5, 2025) The philosophy of creativity explores the essence of human innovation and imaginative expression.
Ingenuity also incorporates individual experiences, personal preferences, and cultural traditions to a degree of uncanny manifestation.
It is this unique take on dishes that set one chef apart from another. With this thought, let us deconstruct Eggs Benedict and present it in a way that is indicative of the Eastern Shore.
If a crispy soft-shell crab, nestled on a crunchy English muffin, crowned with a luscious poached egg, and adorned with an adobe hollandaise sauce sounds deliciously divine, you might want to read on.
Before specifics can be addressed, a little history spices the pot of curiosity and comprehension. The origins of Eggs Benedict are debated but generally credited to New York City in the late 1800s, with two theories.
The first, from Delmonico’s Restaurant, where chef Charles Ranhofer created a custom dish for a regular diner, Mrs. LeGrand Benedict.
The second theory claims a stock broker, Lemuel Benedict, ordered a hangover cure of poached eggs, toast, bacon and hollandaise sauce at the Waldorf Hotel, where the head chef Oscar Tschirby adapted into a classic dish with Canadian bacon and an English muffin.
Conclusion may not come to the forefront, but one thing is for sure. New York City has been designated as the birth place of this notorious dish.
The three main components of Eggs Benedict are: an English muffin, poached eggs, and a hollandaise sauce. Each element must be cooked flawlessly
to form the perfect bite. Let us start from the bottom and work our way to the top.
The English muffin must be toasted to the point where all of the nooks and crannies highlight the textural essence of the dish. Just remember, there is a fine line between toasted and burnt.
Poached eggs can be intimidating. But if one understands the chemistry behind it, confidence will flourish and become second nature.
Poaching eggs rely on the protein denaturation of egg whites by heat and acid, which causes the proteins to unfold and coagulate, forming a firm, white mass around the yolk.
Adding vinegar to the water increases the rate of this protein coagulation, forming a protective skin on the egg white to prevent it from feathering into the water.
Maintaining a gentle simmer is crucial to prevent the water’s movement from breaking up the egg before the white sets, resulting in a tender, delicate poached egg. Instructions follow.
Fill a small saucepan with a couple inches of water and 2 teaspoons white vinegar.
Heat the water until it is simmering. You just want to see the little bubbles at the bottom.
Then, take your spoon and swirl the water around, like a mini whirlpool.
Crack your egg into a ramekin and place it gently in the water. The swirling water will help the egg white wrap around itself as it cooks. Cook for 2 ½ to 3 minutes and remove with slotted spoon.
The final portion of Eggs Benedict is the hollandaise sauce. This sauce relies on the chemistry of an emulsion, a stable mixture of butter fat, egg yolks, and lemon juice created by the emulsifying power of lecithin in the egg yolks.
Place the hollandaise sauce in the top portion of the doble boiler and water in
the bottom section. Whisk vigorously over a gentle heat, this allows the sauce to thicken without scrambling the eggs. The acidity of the lemon juice also helps to stabilize the emulsion and alter the sauces pH level.
Homemade hollandaise sauce is easy to make but is time consuming. Consider purchasing premade hollandaise sauce that can be found at any supermarket. If one adores Eggs Benedict and fried soft shell crabs, consider Eggs Benedict, Eastern Shore Style.
Toast an English muffin. Fry a softshell crab and place it on top of the English muffin. Add a few tablespoons of a fresh herbed salad with your favorite vinaigrette or olive oil and salt and pepper over the crab.
The crab, muffin, and egg are rich and acidity is greatly needed. A fresh herb salad adds flavor and lightens the sandwich.
Carefully place the poached egg on top of the salad and drizzle hollandaise sauce that has been mixed with a touch of adobe sauce over the English muffin. Eggs Benedict, Eastern Shore style is a symphony of taste and texture. This clever twist on conventionalism will have your guests asking for more. Enjoy!
Secret Ingredient – Discovery
One of the greatest discoveries a man makes, one of his great surprises, is to find he can do what he was afraid he couldn’t do.
(Sept. 5, 2025) As the traditional summer season comes to a close, the Ocean Pines Association’s Aquatics Advisory Committee is considering new pool improvements to be implemented in time for the next warmweather season.
Gary Miller, the chair of the aquatics advisory group, added that he would like the homeowners' association to consider painting the entire interior of the bathrooms/ changing rooms, and to look into installing restroom safety handrails.
The group voted to send a charging document to the OPA Board of Directors in hopes of getting the problems resolved in time for the pool’s reopening next May.
OPA’s outdoor pools close in early September. As such, late last month, the aquatics team met, where they discussed ways in which to improve the amenity for next summer. The group considered maintenance opportunities, primarily at the Swim and Racquet facility.
According to committee members, they have recently heard from OPA residents and pool members the Swim and Racquet pool and building have a host of issues, including insufficient lighting and slippery floors in the bathroom and uneven boards and peeling paint on the deck.
“I was kind of shocked by the condition of the Swim and Racquet building,” said Vivian Koroknay, aquatics committee member. “I was shocked about it because it’s in bad shape. My sister went into the bathroom, and she said, ‘That was interesting. It’s like a cave in there.’ You can’t even really see
The team mentioned that they would also like to see some adjustments to the community’s Ocean Citylocated Beach Club next summer. According to the aquatics group, there are several instances in which the bathroom attendant is absent or missing from their post, despite being hired to ensure all users are facility members. As a result, the bathrooms can sometimes be crowded with nonOPA residents coming up off the beach to use the restroom.
Also discussed by the aquatics advisory committee was the implementation of a coupon-esque booklet or swipe card for guests brought in by pool members. According to Miller, Steve Jacobs, board of directors member, received a letter from a homeowner asking about the possibility of a “grandparent pass.”
The offering would be a weekly membership for grandparents to give to their grandchildren when they visit, to be bought at a set price, rather than paying the kids’ $10 daily rate. Aquatics liaison Rick Farr noted that similar deals were provided in the past, but only about four or five were ever purchased.
A swipe card was also debated, in which a certain number of pool visits could be pre-loaded into it, and pool members could use this to get their guests into the aquatics facilities. The preloaded visits would provide some type of discount.
The aquatics advisory committee ultimately opted against recommending the passbook or swipe card, arguing that there were too many variables, like determining if the discounts would apply for adult guests, and what happens if a card gets lost. The group decided to table the discussion for now, believing the system could get complicated quickly.
The aquatics team may consider suggesting a better children's discount. Currently, children aged five to 17 can access the pools for a daily rate of $10 for members and residents. For non-residents, children aged 5 to 17 can enter the facilities for $15. A new deal could bring these price tags down by a dollar or two, but the advisory committee did not yet opt to make any definite recommendations on this topic to the Ocean Pines Board of Directors.
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., Sept. 5
WINE ON THE BEACH 2025
Hugh T. Cropper Inlet Parking Lot, 809 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Featuring unique artisans and crafters, popular Delmarva food and live music by Bird Dog and the Road Kings followed by Misspent Youth. Tickets: http://www.winefest.com/ticketsbeach.html. 410-263-3323
MARK TWAIN TONIGHT! STARRING RICHARD THOMAS
Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 7 p.m. Thomas brings Mark Twain’s razorsharp wit and enduring wisdom to life. Tickets: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/3198506 9/mark-twain-tonight-starring-richardthomas-ocean-city-oc-performing-artscenter.
FIRST FRIDAY & BLOCK PARTY
Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 5-7 p.m. Meet the artists, enjoy hors d’oeuvres and see the new exhibits. Also featuring live music with events and demos. Free event. All are welcome. 410524-9433, frankie@artleagueofoceancity.org
OC MAHJONG CLUB
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Join in for a fun morning of playing tile Mahjong. Feel free to bring your own tile set. All adults welcome. 410-5241818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
HOMESCHOOL HIATUS
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:30 p.m. Take a break from learning to explore STEAM activities and crafts. For ages 611 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
DISCOVERY DEN AFTERSCHOOL PROGRAM
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 3:304:30 p.m. Come enjoy a new topic every week. Week 1: Art Studio. Best of elementary and middle school students, but all are welcome. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
YOGA BASICS FOR BEGINNERS
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 6 p.m. Build confidence and familiarity with foundational yoga poses. Bring your own mat. 410957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org
KIGHTS OF COLUMBUS BINGO
Fridays - Knights of Columbus, 9901 Coastal Highway, behind St. Luke’s Church. Doors open at 5 p.m., bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. Light snacks available before bingo and at intermission. 410524-7994
SIPPIN’ WITH SLOTHS
Coastal Wilds, 34215 Peppers Corner Road, Frankford, 6-8 p.m. Music by Sound Living/Glenn Stern. Cost is $40 and includes sloth encounter, self-guided tour, and one complementary glass of wine. Tickets: https://book.singenuity.com/469/activity/details/2284/rates. 302-829-1548
Sat., Sept. 6
WINE ON THE BEACH 2025
Hugh T. Cropper Inlet Parking Lot, 809 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Featuring unique artisans and crafters, popular Delmarva food and live music by Bird Dog and the Road Kings followed by Misspent Youth. Tickets: http://www.winefest.com/ticketsbeach.html. 410-263-3323
OCEAN CITY SEAFOOD FESTIVAL
Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 12-8 p.m. Featuring steamed crabs, Maryland seafood, beer, wine, cocktails, live music and cooking demos. Family friendly event. Tickets: https://ocmdseafoodfest.com.
SMALL TOWN BLOCK PARTY
Historic Downtown Berlin, 124 N. Main St., 12-5 p.m. Featuring Berlin Airlift (121:30 p.m.), Kiti Gartner and The Drifting Valentines (2-4:30 p.m.), food and beer vendors and activities for kids.
ANNUAL DOGGIE SWIM
Mumford’s Landing Pool, 7351 Yacht Club Drive, Ocean Pines, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Small dogs under 20 lbs. swim from 1010:30 a.m. All dogs swim from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cost is $8 per dog. Benefits Worcester County Humane Society. Rain date is Sept. 9. All donations welcome. 410-641-5255
OCEAN PINES FARMERS & ARTISANS
MARKET
Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods. Also featuring family-friendly activities, music and unique shopping experiences. Open to the public, year round. 410-641-7052,
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10 a.m. Novice and established writers gather to share their works. Structure includes critiques and appreciation, market leads and writing exercises. Drop-ins welcome. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
PAW PATROL PARTY
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Enjoy some paw-riffic crafts and get your first library cards. For ages 0-11 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST, SLIGO BY THE SEA, SUMMER MINISTRY
First Presbyterian Church of Ocean City, 1301 Philadelphia Ave., 10 a.m.-noon. Pastor Kandace Zollman - Pastor for Nurture and Visitation, Spencerville Seventh-day Adventist Church, Spencerville, MD. sligochurch.org/sligobythesea, 301270-6777
Sun., Sept. 7
20TH ANNUAL BAHIA MARINA FLOUNDER POUNDER
Bahia Marina and Tackle Shop, 2107 Herring Way, Ocean City. A one day fishing tournament for flounder. Great for kids. You may fish from your own boat or rent a skiff, skimmer or pontoon from the marina. https://www.bahiamarina.com/tournaments/flounder-pounder, 410-289-7438
OC CRUZERS ON SOMERSET PLAZA
Somerset Plaza, Somerset Street, Ocean City, 3-6 p.m. Free, family-friendly car show featuring classics, hot rods and customs from the OC Cruzers Car Club. Also featuring live music by “Beach Bandit Duo.” https://ocdc.org
SEWING FOR A CAUSE
Sundays - Buckingham Presbyterian Church, 20 S. Main St., Berlin, 10:30 a.m. to noon. Learn how to sew while making a difference. 410-641-0234
JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING
Sundays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 10 a.m. www.jw.org
BERLIN FARMERS MARKET
Sundays - Pitts Street, Commerce Street and Main Street, Berlin, May through October, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine. Producers only market featuring more than 50 farmers, food cultivators, bakers, distillers, seafood, meat and more. Also featuring a petting farm (9-11 a.m.), free kids art station and live music. TheBerlinFarmersMarket.com
Mon., Sept. 8
STORY TIME: PIGS
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Crafts, songs and stories. For ages 05 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
WRITING FOR WELLNESS
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:30 p.m. Writing about stressful experienced like illness may boost health & psychological well-being. This group uses exercises to stimulate creative expressionl. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
MOVIE MATINEE
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Come see a movie you may have missed in the theaters. Light refreshments provided. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
BRIDGE
Mondays - Ocean City 50plus Center, 104 41st Street, Ocean City, 12:30-3:30 p.m. Reserve a spot: Tish, 410-804-3971. www.Worcoa.org/oceancity
DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS
Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6:00-8:00 p.m. All ladies who love to sing invited. Mary, 410-629-9383 or Carol, 302-242-7062.
OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS
Mondays - Worcester County LibraryOcean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 7-8 p.m. No dues or fees. 410-459-9100
Tues., Sept. 9
STORY TIME @ THE DELMARVA DISCOVERY MUSEUM
Delmarva Discovery Museum, 2 Market St., Pocomoke City, 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and crafts that feature one of the museum’s special animals. For ages 0-5 years. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org
STORY TIME
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Story time geared for ages 0-5 years featuring seasonal themes designed to support early literacy skills with stories, songs and fingerplays. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
CROSS FARMS POP-UP FARMERS MARKET
Tuesdays - Flower Street Field across from Henry Park, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Accepting Maryland Department of Agriculture FMNP (WIC & Seniors) Checks and Maryland WIC Fruit & Vegetable Checks. Also offering a "Produce Bucks" program, which doubles purchases for eligible residents. https://www.facebook.com/the-
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berlinfarmersmarket.
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. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
OC KNITTING GROUP
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Do you love to knit or crochet? Bring whatever project you happen to be working on. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
STORM OF ’33 WITH BUNK MANN
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 4-5 p.m. A presentation on Ocean City’s Storm of ’33 with local writer Bunk Mann. 410-524-1818, https://worcesterlibrary.libcal.com/event/14718110
BOOK CLUB @ TIDES AND VINE: ‘KIN: ROOTED IN HOPE’ BY CAROLE BOSTON WEATHERFORD
Tides & Vine, 106 W. Green St., Snow Hill, 6 p.m. An evening of Books and Wine with the One Maryland One Book. Stop by the Snow Hill library to pick up your book. Must be at least 21 years of age. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org.
BEACH HEROES-OC
Tuesdays - Volunteer beach clean-up group meets from 9-10 a.m., year-round. Trash bags, grippers and gloves provided. Check the Facebook page “Beach HeroesOC” for weekly meeting locations. All are welcome.
JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING
Tuesdays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 7 p.m. www.jw.org
TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY
Tuesdays - Worcester County Health Department, 9730 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3:30-4:30 p.m. TOPS is a weekly support and education group promoting weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. 410-289-4725
OC KNITTING CLUB
Tuesdays - Worcester County LibraryOcean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m.
ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE
Tuesdays - Experienced dancers and others interested in watching or learning more are welcome, 7-9:30 p.m. No partner required. Info: TangobytheBeach.com.
WEIGHT MANAGEMENT AND WELLNESS GROUP
Tuesdays - Holy Trinity Cathedral, 11021 Worcester Highway, 2-2:45 p.m. Use the weight loss program/app/plan of your choice. Free and open to everyone. 410641-4882, www.htcanglican.org/activities.
ZUMBA TONING TUESDAYS
Tuesdays - Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 5:30 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com
Wed., Sept. 10
OC ROCK AND RIDE BIKEFEST
Hugh T. Cropper Inlet Parking Lot, 809 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Also held in the convention center for 10 a.m to 7 p.m. Featuring 23 bands, 85 vendors, fireworks, 9/11 tribute, bike show and prizes, stunt shows and passport ride. Tickets: www.ocrockandride.com.
BABY TIME
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Songs, stories and giggles. For ages 0-2 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
BOOK CLUB @ 50PLUS CENTER:
‘KIN: ROOTED IN HOPE’ BY CAROLE BOSTON WEATHERFORD
Snow Hill 50plus Center, 4767 Snow Hill Road, 11 a.m. Read the One Maryland One Book 2025 selection. Stop by the Snow Hill library or the 50plus Center to pick up your book. Then meet for a discussion. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
MERRY MAKERS: OPEN CRAFT DAY!
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m. Marble, paint and decoupage on multiple surfaces. Registration required: 410-208-4014. www.worcesterlibrary.org
CRAB CAKES FOR A CAUSE
Captain’s Galley Crab Cake Shack, 9936 Stephen Decatur Highway, Ocean City, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. All day long, 10% of all sale will benefit the Ocean City Art League. Dine in or take out. Tickets: https://givebutter.com/TeamPrez. 410-524-9433
PUZZLE SWAP
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 1-7 p.m. Bring your gently used puzzles and leave with new-to-you puzzles. Don’t have a puzzle to exchange but still want one? That’s OK too. All puzzles must be in their original boxes. 410-641-0650
COLONIAL CRAFTS
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 4:30 p.m. Create your own quill pen to take home and explore the traditional technique of tin punching. Learn how everyday items were made in the 1700s. For ages 6-11 years. 410-524-1818
INTRO TO SQUARE DANCING AND CHILI DINNER
Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 6-8:30 p.m. Free event. Chili dinner held at 6 p.m. followed by dance lessons from 7-8:30 p.m. Adult singles and couples welcome. No children. RSVP by Sept. 8: 908-229-8799.
PAJAMA STORY TIME
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 6:30 p.m. Wear your pajamas and bring your favorite stuffie to snuggle while you enjoy stories and songs to wind down to bedtime. For ages 0-5 years. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
WHATCHA READING?
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4 p.m. Share your book recommendations and enjoy a snack while you read. For ages 12-18 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
FAMILY FUN NIGHTS
Wednesdays (through Aug. 20) - Ocean Pines Yacht Club Pool, 1 Mumford's Landing Road, 6-8 p.m. DJ, games and prizes. Food available for purchase. Admission is $3 for OP swim members, $5 for OP residents, $7 for non-residents and free for non-swimmers. Cash only. 410-641-7052, oceanpines.org
KIWANIS CLUB MEETING
Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. Last Wednesday of the month meetings are offsite and information can be found on the website and Facebook. www.kiwanisofopoc.org.
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 and at intermission. Open to the public. 443-605-5028
Thurs., Sept. 11
OC ROCK AND RIDE BIKEFEST
Hugh T. Cropper Inlet Parking Lot, 809 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Also held in the convention center for 10 a.m to 7 p.m. Featuring 23 bands, 85 vendors, fireworks, 9/11 tribute, bike show and prizes, stunt shows and passport ride. Tickets: www.ocrockandride.com.
RED KNIGHTS PARADE OF BROTHERS BOARDWALK RIDE
Firefighters Memorial, 10 S. Boardwalk, Ocean City, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Donation of $30 per motorcycle as a ride fee. Registration begins on 27th Street at 10 a.m. Ride begins at 11:30 a.m.; memorial service at noon and scenic ride at 1 p.m. Mike Fiazzo, 610-470-6071
STORY TIME: LITTLE BLUE TRUCK
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Songs, crafts and a story. For ages 2-5 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
PLAY TIME
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Join in for a variety of activities and toys. Play and socialize with other families. For ages 2-5 years. 410-632-3495,
www.worcesterlibrary.org
OC CHESS CLUB
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Enjoy a relaxing game of chess every Thursday at the library. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
BACK IN ACTION PHYSICAL THERAPTY FREE SEMINAR
Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 11 a.m.-noon. Join Dr. Sandra Kappes for “Balance & Fall Prevention.” Register: 410-641-7052. www.oceanpines.org
REGENCY RIDDLES: CELEBRATE JANE AUSTEN’S 250TH ANNIVERSARY!
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 2 p.m. Step into the witty world of Jane Austen with an afternoon of clever word play, riddles, tea and scones, a favorite pastime of the regency era. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org
BINGO
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Play a lively game of Bingo and win fun prizes. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
MONTICELLO VIRTUAL TOUR
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2:15 p.m. A Monticello guide will lead the group in real-time through the first floor of Thomas Jefferson’s mountaintop home. Learn about Jefferson’s ideas that helped shape a nation. 410-641-0650
ONGOING EVENTS
BUS TRIP TO BRANDYWINE MUSEUM
Sponsored by the Art League of Ocean City. The exhibit features 50 of Andrew Wyeth’s paintings inspired by Kuerner Farm. A visit to Kuerner Farm is also available ($12). Cost is $95 for members and $115 for non-members and includes transportation and museum ticket. The bus will leave from the ACME parking lot (94th Street and Coastal Highway) on Sept. 12 at 8 a.m. and returns at approximately 7:30 p.m. Tickets: https://canvas.artleagueofoceancity.org/classes/263 0. 410-524-9433, frankie@artleagueofoceancity.org
Crossword answers from page 56
HELP WANTED
BARBER wanted at Charlie’s Barbershop, Berlin, MD. With clientele. To rent a chair. 443-944-2240
2025
PT DENTAL HYGIENIST
Ocean City, MD 410-213-1032
AMERICAN LEGION Assistant Manager, PM Shift
2 Line Cooks, Part-time. Exp. required. Apply at Post, 2308 Philadelphia Avenue or call 410-289-3166
JOLLY ROGER
Small Engine Mechanic. Ride Maintenance. Year Round. Wage starts at $15/hour & up based on experience. Benefits available. 410-289-4902
Fully furnished 2BR/2BA newly updated Seaway Condo. 3rd floor walkup - Ocean BlockNon Smoker/No Pet/Max 4 occupants / All utilities plus basic cable and internet included. Available 10/1/255/31/26 - $1400 mo [1st, last month plus $500 deposit required.] 610-405-8942
Welcome to your sunlit, stylish studio in one of Midtown Manhattan’s premier full-service buildings at 420 W 42nd St. This modern home features floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning city views, a sleek kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops, and an open layout ideal for relaxing or entertaining. Enjoy luxury amenities including a 24-hour doorman, concierge, fitness center, pool, sun deck, resident lounge, and on-site laundry. Steps from Times Square, Hudson Yards, and the Theater District, this apartment offers upscale city living at its finest. CALL/TEXT 415-466-1813. Email lw182206@gmail.com.
YEAR ROUND & WINTER BAYSIDE CONDO
4 - 2BR/2BA FULLY FURNISHED Units. W/D, AC & parking. Starting September. Call Mike at 410-603-6120. www.mbjcproperties.com
OCEANFRONT WINTER RENTAL
2BR/2BA, furnished Condo, Avail. Oct.-Apr. Direct ocean views, balcony, parking, WiFi incl. Ideal for 2 mature adults w/strong rental history. Ocean City, Md. Contact Mary Beth 410-241-3376
Seeking YR & Seasonal Rentals! Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555.
ROOMMATES
ROOMMATE HOUSESHARE
Looking for mature female to share house in Ocean Pines. Priv. Bedrooms, full use of house. $800 per mo., Incl’s all utilities. No pets, no smoking. 443-497-2332
COMMERCIAL
***Prime Location***
Commercial Storage Unit
West Ocean City, 10’x12’
Garage Door opening with Small office and kitchen. 1,000 sq. ft. Call 301-748-1977. Avail Oct. 1.
Contractor Shop/ Warehouse For Rent West OC. 1,000 sq.ft. w/Bathroom and HVAC. Call 443-783-2125.
Commercial Space for Lease. ONLY 1 UNIT LEFT! 2-3 Units available, can be divided or joined. Approx. 1000 sq. ft. Busy major road in Town of Berlin. Call 443-880-8885 for more information.
Industrial Space Yard and Storage Shed. Approx. 10x25+/Route 90/Bishopville. Call 443-497-4200.
2 Office/Retail Spaces available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft. and 1728 sq. ft. Call 443-497-4200
SERVICES
LARRY’S HANDYMAN SERVICE No job too small. Entrance doors, interior doors, storm doors, shower doors, drywall repairs and paint, laminate floors, interior paint. Over 40 years of carpentry experience. Please call Larry, 410-251-9066
DONATIONS
Do you have an old bicycle not being used? It could mean a world of difference to a hard-working international student. We are looking to get as many bikes as possible. Your donation will be taxdeductible. Contact Gary at 443-975-3065.
Would
“late, but well along”!
with a
Home Standby
Act now to receive a
5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-855-993-0969 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.
VEHICLES WANTED DONATE YOUR CAR/TRUCK/ RV - Lutheran Mission Society of MD Compassion Place ministries help local families with food, clothing, counseling. Tax deductible. MVA licensed #W1044. 410-228-8437
www.CompassionPlace.org
REAL ESTATE We Buy Houses for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-866-541-7929 SERVICES
DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-855-337-5228 www.dental50plus.com/ MDDC #6258
BWW Law Group, LLC
6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101
Rockville, MD 20852 (301) 961-6555
SUBSTITUTE
TRUSTEES' SALE OF REAL PROPERTY AND ANY IMPROVEMENTS THEREON
Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust dated May 9, 2008, recorded in Liber 5107, Folio 27 and re-recorded in Liber 7778, Folio 112 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, with an original principal balance of $444,000.00, 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 16, 2025 AT 4:05 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 $24,000 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. 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. 370289-1)
Howard N. Bierman, Carrie M. Ward, et. al., Substitute Trustees
OCD-8/28/3t
TRUSTEE’S SALE OF CONDOMINIUM UNIT
In accordance with the order in Case no. C-23-CV-25-000051 in the Circuit Court for Worcester County, the Trustee named below will sell at public auction to the highest bidder on Monday, September 8, 2025, at 3:15 p.m., at the front door of Bay Winds II Condominium Unit No. 104, 511 Robin Drive, Ocean City, MD, all that property designated as Bay Winds II Condominium Unit No. 104, together with an undivided percentage interest in the common elements, as established pursuant to a Condominium Master Deed and By-Laws, as amended, dated December 26, 1973, and recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland in Liber No. 423, Folio 326, et seq., and pursuant also to the several plats described in the said Condominium Master Deed and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records in Plat Book No. 40, Folio 31, et. seq., as further described in a deed recorded at Book 8136, Page 247, et seq., in “AS IS” condition, SUBJECT to all the liens, covenants, agreements, conditions, easements and restrictions as may appear among the land records of Worcester
County, Maryland.
A deposit of $25,000.00 in cash or certified check will be required of the Purchaser at the auction. (A deposit will not be required if the successful bidder is the Plaintiff/secured party in this foreclosure action.) The balance in cash or cashier’s or certified check shall be paid within 20 days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, said balance to bear interest at the rate of ten percent (10%) per annum from the date of sale to the date of payment. Time is of the essence for the Purchaser. All real estate taxes, wastewater and water charges, and condominium assessments shall be adjusted as of the date of sale and assumed thereafter by the Purchaser. All settlement costs, including recordation and transfer taxes and recording fees, shall be paid by the Purchaser. Possession will be given upon payment in full of the purchase price. If Purchaser fails to pay the balance of the purchase price when due, the deposit shall be forfeited and the property resold at the risk and cost of the defaulting Purchaser.
For further information, you may contact Spencer Ayres Cropper, Trustee, 410-723-1400.
OCD-8/21/3t
TRUSTEE’S SALE OF CONDOMINIUM UNIT
In accordance with the order in Case no. C-23-CV-25-000026 in the Circuit Court for Worcester County, the Trustee named below will sell at public auction to the highest bidder on Monday, September 8, 2025, at 4:00 p.m., at the front door of Oceanscape Condominium Unit No. 402, 16 64th Street, Ocean City, MD, all that property designated as Oceanscape Condominium Unit No. 402, together with an undivided percentage interest in the common elements, as established pursuant to a Condominium Master Deed and ByLaws, as amended, dated September 12, 2001, and recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland in Liber No. 3122, Folio 573, et seq., and pursuant also to the several plats described in the said Condominium Master Deed and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records in Plat Book No. 171, Folio 28, et. seq., as further described in a deed recorded at Book 8417, Page 180, et seq., in “AS IS” condition, SUBJECT to all the liens, covenants, agreements, conditions, easements and restrictions as may appear among the land records of Worcester County, Maryland.
A deposit of $25,000.00 in cash or certified check will be required of the Purchaser at the auction. (A deposit will not be required if the successful bidder is the Plaintiff/secured party in this foreclosure action.) The balance in cash or cashier’s or certified check shall be paid within 20 days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, said balance to bear interest at the rate of ten percent (10%) per annum from the date of sale to the date of payment. Time is of the essence for the Purchaser. All real estate taxes,
wastewater and water charges, and condominium assessments shall be adjusted as of the date of sale and assumed thereafter by the Purchaser. All settlement costs, including recordation and transfer taxes and recording fees, shall be paid by the Purchaser. Possession will be given upon payment in full of the purchase price. If Purchaser fails to pay the balance of the purchase price when due, the deposit shall be forfeited and the property resold at the risk and cost of the defaulting Purchaser.
For further information, you may contact Spencer Ayres Cropper, Trustee, 410-723-1400.
The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Eagles Landing Golf Course Flood Remediation and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.
BID Documents for the Eagles Landing Golf Course Flood Remediation may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Leonard at dleonard@oceancitymd.gov, or by calling (410) 723-6643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their BID’s. The Town is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any thirdparty service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.
A Pre-BID Meeting will be conducted on TUESDAY, JULY 22ND, 2025, AT 8:00AM AT EAGLES LANDING GOLF COURSECLUBHOUSE. Pre-BID Meeting attendance is mandatory for Vendors intending to submit BID proposals for consideration. The Town of Ocean City will additionally provide a virtual attendance option, via Zoom, to Vendors unable to attend the Pre-BID Meeting in person. A site survey shall immediately follow the Pre-BID Meeting. The last day for questions will be on MONDAY, AUGUST 4TH, 2025 AT 3:00PM. Addendum will be posted by close of business on TUESDAY, AUGUST 5TH, 2025. Sealed BID Documents are due
no later than MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 8TH, 2025, BY 4:00PM. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION, ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9TH, 2025, AT 1:00PM. BID’s are to be submitted to the Mayor and City Council, Attention: City Clerk; Room 230, 301 North Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (B01-26 – Eagles Landing Golf Course Flood Remediation) must be noted on the outside of the package.
Late BID Documents will not be accepted.
Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation.
OCD-7/10/9t
MARIANNA BATIE ESQ. BATIE LAW LLC
9748 STEPHEN DECATUR HWY., STE. 112
OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-9358 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20774 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF BARBARA ANN HENNING
Notice is given that Joanne M. Lettis, 20 Coral Ln., Frankford, DE 19945-9682, was on August 12, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Barbara Ann Henning who died on June 29, 2025, with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 12th day of February, 2026.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
Joanne M. Lettis 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 21, 2025
OCD-8/21/3t
HUGH CROPPER IV, ESQ. 9927 STEPHEN DECATUR HWY., SUITE F12
OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE
TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 20788
NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Circuit Court of Brevard County, Florida appointed Joseph V. Drosey Sr., 1029 Royal Palm Dr., Barefoot Bay, FL 32976-7011 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Joseph V. Drosey Jr. who died on October 15, 2024 domiciled in Florida, USA.
The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is Hugh Cropper IV, 9927 Stephen Decatur Hwy., #F-12, Ocean City, MD 21842-9349.
At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: Worcester County.
All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.
Joseph V. Drosey Sr.
Foreign Personal Representative Terri Westcott Register of Wills One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074
Name of Newspaper:
Ocean City Digest
Date of first publication: August 21, 2025
OCD-8/21/3t
MARIANNA BATIE ESQ. BATIE LAW LLC
9748 STEPHEN DECATUR HWY., STE. 112 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-9358
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20789 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF RICHARD JAMES SWEENEY
Notice is given that Kerry Jean Sweeney, 7 Lisa Ln., Port Jefferson Station, NY 11776-2915, was on August 12, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of
Richard James Sweeney who died on August 01, 2025, without a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 12th day of February, 2026.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
Kerry Jean Sweeney 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 21, 2025
OCD-8/21/3t
BEFORE THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION OF MARYLAND
IN THE MATTER OF TPE MD WO73, LLC’S APPLICATION FOR A CERTIFICATE OF PUBLIC CONVENIENCE AND NECESSITY TO CONSTRUCT A 5.0 MW SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC GENERATING FACILITY IN WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND
CASE NO. 9772
NOTICE OF VIRTUAL PUBLIC COMMENT HEARING
The Maryland Public Service Commission will hold a virtual public comment hearing to consider TPE MD WO73, LLC’s application for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) to construct a 5.0 MW solar electric generating facility approximately ½ mile northwest of the intersection of Old Ocean City Boulevard and Main Street, Berlin, MD.
DATE: Thursday, September 11, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.
TIME: 7:00 p.m. EDT
PLACE: Virtual Meeting
Anyone wishing to speak at the hearing may sign up through the Public Service Commission’s website, https://www.psc.state.md.us/ by Tuesday, September 9, 2025. To sign up, go to “Featured Topics” on the right side of the website, then click on Public Hearing Signup, click Case No. 9772, click September 11, 2025, select 7:00 p.m., then follow the prompt and click “Schedule Event.” Once you have completed the sign up you will receive a zoom link for the hearing. Otherwise, you may view a live stream of the hearing via the Public Utility Law Judge’s (PULJ) YouTube Channel, https://bit.ly/2X6wLiP. The hearing will include a presentation by the Applicant and Parties, followed by an opportunity for members of the public to provide comments on the proposed Project.
Written comments may be submitted electronically or by first-class mail through Friday, September 12, 2025. Comments submitted electronically must be submitted through the Commission’s Public Comment Dropbox, which can be accessed at www.psc.md.us. Instructions are available at www.psc.state.md.us/make-a-publiccomment. Comments submitted by first-class mail must be addressed to Jamie Bergin, Chief Clerk, Maryland Public Service Commission, William Donald Schaefer Tower, 6 St. Paul Street, 16th Floor, Baltimore MD 21202. All comments must include a reference to Case No. 9772. OCD-8/21/4t
NOTICE
OF INTRODUCTION OF BILL 25-03 WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Take Notice that Bill 25-03 (Zoning – Multi-family dwelling units in the C-2 General Commercial District) was introduced by Commissioners Fiori, Mitrecic, and Purnell on July 15, 2025.
A fair summary of the bill is as follows:
§ ZS 1-210(b)(21). (Amends the Zoning and Subdivision Control Article to add a permitted use to allow detached multi-family dwelling units as an accessory use to a commercial development, provided at least sixty-five percent (65%) or more of the net lot area for a given parcel be developed with a commercial use or structure permitted in the C-2 District, and a minimum of 15% of open space be provided for the residential uses.)
A Public Hearing
will be held on Bill 25-03 at the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Room 1101 – Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland on Tuesday, September 16, 2025 at 10:30 a.m.
This is only a fair summary of the bill. A full copy of the bill is posted on the Legislative Bulletin Board in the main hall of the Worcester County Government Center outside Room 1103 and is available for public inspection in Room 1103 of the Worces-
ter County Government Center. In addition, a full copy of the bill is available on the County Website at www.co.worcester.md.us.
THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OCD-8/28/2t
Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland
PROPOSAL SOLICITATION
B04-26 – Convention Center Landscaping Installation
The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Convention Center Landscaping Installation and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.
BID Documents for the Convention Center Landscaping Installation may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Leonard at dleonard@oceancitymd.gov, or by calling (410) 723-6643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their BID’s. The Town is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any thirdparty service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.
A pre-proposal meeting will be held on WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 27TH, 2025 AT 10:00AM, IN THE CONVENTION CENTER CONFERENCE ROOM, 1ST FLOOR, 4001 COASTAL HIGHWAY, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842. The last day for questions will be on THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2025 AT 4:00PM. Addendum will be posted by close of business on FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19TH, 2025. Sealed BID Documents are due no later than MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 29TH, 2025, BY 4:00PM. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION, ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30TH, 2025, AT 1:00PM. BID’s are to be submitted to the Mayor and City Council, Attention: City Clerk; Room 230, 301 North Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (Convention Center Landscaping Installation) 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 So-
COATES, COATES, & COATES, P.A.
RAYMOND D. COATES, JR., ESQ.
6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 300
OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE
TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE
ESTATE NO. 20806
NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Register of Wills court of Monroe County, Pennsylvania appointed Karen Bixler, 103 S. Broad St., Lansdale, PA 19446-3847 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Richard A. Waibel who died on May 31, 2025 domiciled in Pennsylvania, America.
The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is Raymond D. Coates, Jr., Esq., 6200 Coastal Hwy., Ste. 300, Ocean City, MD 21842-6698.
At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: Worcester County.
All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.
Karen Bixler
Foreign Personal Representative Terri Westcott Register of Wills
One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074
Name of Newspaper: Ocean City Digest
Date of first publication: August 28, 2025
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VICTORIA L. O’NEILL ESQ. AYRES JENKINS GORDY & ALMAND P.A.
6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20780 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF SUSANNE SCOTT PARKER
Notice is given that Warren Scott Parker, 305 Snow Chief Ct., Alpharetta, GA 30005-7874 and Robert Everett Parker Jr., 148 Atlantic Rd., North Palm Beach, FL 33408-4602, were on August 19, 2025 appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Susanne Scott Parker who
died on July 08, 2025, with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 19th day of February, 2026.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
Warren Scott Parker Robert Everett Parker Jr. Personal Representatives 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 28, 2025
OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES ESTATE NO. 20801
NOTICE IS GIVEN that the SURROGATE court of BERGEN, NEW JERSEY appointed DAISY B MACADAEG whose address is 194 VICTORIA AVE PARAMUS, NJ 07652-1945 as the PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE of the Estate of RODERICK R MACADAEG who died on JUNE 03, 2024 domiciled in NEW JERSEY, USA
The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is MITCHELL ALKON whose address is 6110 EXECUTIVE BLVD STE 300 ROCKVILLE, MD 20852-3903. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: WORCESTER
All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-8/28/3t
REENA J PATEL ESQ LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MOUNT HERMON RD STE B SALISBURY, MD 21804-5303
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of AURETTA BISIGNANI Estate No. 20800 Notice is given that YURI BISIGNANI whose address is 38 BEHM LN COLORA, MD 21917-1528 was on AUGUST 20, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of AURETTA BISIGNANI who died on AUGUST 01, 2025 without a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 20th day of FEBRUARY, 2026
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-8/28/3t
REGAN J. R. SMITH ESQ
WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON LLP
3509 COASTAL HWY
OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3334
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of ROBERT PAUL VILASI Estate No. 20791 Notice is given that GAIL ANN VILASI whose address is 10624 SHIFTING SANDS DR OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-4823 was on AUGUST 20, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ROBERT PAUL VILASI who died on MARCH 30, 2025 with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 20th day of FEBRUARY, 2026. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-8/28/3t
NOTICE
OF INTRODUCTION OF EMERGENCY BILL 25-04 WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Take Notice that Emergency Bill 25-04 (Zoning – Solar Energy Systems and Public Health - Nuisances) was introduced by Commissioners Abbott, Bertino, Elder, Fiori, Mitrecic, and Purnell on August 19, 2025. A fair summary of the bill is as follows:
§ ZS 1-344(b). (Amends the Zoning and Subdivision Control Article to revise several definitions including: solar energy system and utility solar energy system; replace large solar energy system with major solar energy system; replace medium solar energy system with minor solar energy system; and delete small solar energy system.)
§ ZS 1-344(d). (Repeal and replace
Subsection (d), updating the solar energy system terminology; referencing applicability of the siting standards in § 7-218 of the Public Utilities Article, Annotated Code of Maryland; amending lot requirements for major (formerly large) and utility solar energy systems; amending the utility solar energy system review process; establishing decommissioning and restoration plan and bond requirements.)
§ ZS 1 305(k)(1)D. (Amend the lot requirements provisions to remove small solar energy systems.)
§ ZS 1-105(c)(6). (Amend the uses permitted in all zoning districts with the new terminology for minor solar energy systems.)
§ ZS 1-201(b)(18). (Amend the A1 Agricultural District permitted use with the new terminology for major and utility solar energy systems.)
§ ZS 1-202(b)(19). (Amend the A2 Agricultural District permitted use with the new terminology for major and utility solar energy systems.)
§ ZS 1 203(b)(17). (Add major and utility solar energy systems as a permitted use in the E-1 Estate District.)
§ ZS 1-203(c)(15). (Repeal the E-1 Estate District special exception use for large solar energy systems.)
§ ZS 1 204(b)(12). (Add major and utility solar energy systems as a permitted use in the V-1 Village District.)
§ ZS 1-204(c)(17). (Repeal the V-1 Village District special exception use for large solar energy systems.)
§ ZS 1-209(b)(12). (Add major and utility solar energy systems as a permitted use in the C-1 Neighborhood Commercial District.)
§ ZS 1-209(c)(14). (Repeal the C-1 Neighborhood Commercial District special exception use for large solar energy systems.)
§ ZS 1-210(b)(21). (Add major and utility solar energy systems as a permitted use in the C-2 General Commercial District.)
§ ZS 1-210(c)(15). (Repeal the C-2 General Commercial District special exception use for large solar energy systems.)
§ ZS 1-211(b)(27). (Add major and utility solar energy systems as a permitted use in the C-3 Highway Commercial District.)
§ ZS 1-211(c)(10). (Repeal the C-3 Highway Commercial District special exception use for large solar energy systems.)
§ ZS 1-212(b)(21). (Amend the I-1 Light Industrial District permitted use with the new terminology for major and utility solar energy systems.)
§ ZS 1-213(b)(24). (Amend the I-2 Heavy Industrial District permitted use with the new terminology for major and utility solar energy systems.)
§ PH 1-101(a)(14). (Renumber existing Subsection (a)(14) and add a new subsection to establish a nuisance provision for abandoned major or utility solar energy systems that are not decommissioned.)
A Public Hearing
will be held on Emergency Bill 25-04 at the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Room 1101 – Government
Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland on Tuesday, September 16 at 10:35 a.m.
This is only a fair summary of the bill. A full copy of the bill is posted on the Legislative Bulletin Board in the main hall of the Worcester County Government Center outside Room 1103 and is available for public inspection in Room 1103 of the Worcester County Government Center. In addition, a full copy of the bill is available on the County Website at www.co.worcester.md.us.
THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OCD-8/28/2t
CHRISTOPHER T. WOODLEY ESQ.
WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON 3509 COASTAL HWY.
OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3334
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20794
TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MARGARET M. DUVALL
Notice is given that Nicole L. Kurpiel, 630 Edwards Ln., Ligonier, PA 15658-7201, was on August 20, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Margaret M. Duvall who died on January 11, 2025, with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 20th day of February, 2026.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
Nicole L. Kurpiel 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:
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. 20807 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JODI BOUNDS DANZI
Notice is given that Richard A. Danzi Jr., 11026 Piney Island Dr., Bishopville, MD 21813-1458, was on August 22, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Jodi Bounds Danzi who died on August 06, 2025, without a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 22nd day of February, 2026.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
Richard A. Danzi Jr. 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 28, 2025
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REGAN J. R. SMITH ESQ. WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON LLP
3509 COASTAL HWY. OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3334
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20802 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED
IN THE ESTATE OF CHRISTOPHER NEAL LARMORE
Notice is given that James Bradley Caine Jr., 10611 Sifting Sands Dr., Ocean City, MD 218424822 and Scott Wayne Nibblett, 3330 Blue Heron Way, Eden, MD 218222130, were on August 21, 2025 appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Christopher Neal Larmore who died on August 05, 2025, without a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 21st day of February, 2026.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
James Bradley Caine Jr. Scott Wayne Nibblett Personal Representatives
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 28, 2025
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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS
BOARD OF PORT WARDENS
Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 106 ”Waterways,” Article II – “Shoreline Development” of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Port Wardens Ordinance of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland.
Thursday, September 11, 2025 2:00 PM
PW 25-059 A request has been submitted to install one 10’ x 20’ floating dock within an existing slip, maximum channelward extension 20’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 770 94TH ST UNIT D
Parcel # 9650 -304 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
OWNER: Kelly Barr
APPLICANT: Hidden Oak Farm,
LLC
PW 25-062 A request has been submitted to install one boat lift on existing pilings, maximum channelward extension 23’ not to exceed past existing slip. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 2205 PHILADELPHIA AVE UNIT 202A – Slip 53Parcel # 4236 -A202 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
OWNER: Christopher Kernick
APPLICANT: Kayla Short
PW 25-068 A request has been submitted to install 40’ of replacement vinyl bulkhead not to exceed 18” channelward; to replace parallel dock in kind and extend existing pier from by 4’ for a total length of 34’; and to install one boatlift with associated pilings, maximum channelward 39’ The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 609 HARBOUR DR Parcel # 8020A-1552B- in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
OWNER: Christian Worch
APPLICANT: McGinty Marine
Construction
PW 25-069 A request has been submitted to remove an existing boat lift and pier; to reconstruct a new 6’ x 50’ shared pier and install one (1) boat lift and two (2) PWC lifts with associated pilings not to exceed 50’ channelward extension. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 609
BAYSHORE DR UNIT 39 Parcel # 5347 -39 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
OWNER: Adam Marcus
APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart
PW 25-070 A request has been submitted to install one boat lift with associated pilings not to exceed 28’ channelward. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 118 HARBOUR ISLAND CM Parcel # 3486 -118 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
OWNER: Thomas Myers RT
APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart
PW 25-071 A request has been submitted to repair 265’ of deteriorated timber bulkheading with vinyl replacement not to exceed 18” channelward; and to install four (4) boatlifts with associated pilings not to exceed 30’ channelward. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 2101
HERRING WAY Parcel # 3264 -128 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
OWNER: Bahia Management, LLC
APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart
PW 25-072 A request has been submitted to repair with vinyl replacement 50’ of deteriorated bulkhead 18” channelward; to remove existing parallel dock and construct
a new 4’ x 14’ dock and install one boat lift with associated pilings not to exceed 48’ channelward extension. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 743 LAUREL AVE Parcel # 0074B-37 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
OWNER: Gregg Stoehr, TR
APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart
PW 25-074 A request has been submitted to construct a 17.5’ by 2.5’ finger pier extension with a 4.5’ x 2’ wide triangle shaped platform and install one boatlift with associated pilings not to exceed 23’ channelward. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 1207 EDGEWATER AVE UNIT 104 Parcel # 3536 -104 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
OWNER/APPLICANT: Keith Fisher
PW 25-075 A request has been submitted to install one boat lift with associated pilings maximum channelward extension 27’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 2003
HERRING WAY UNIT A Parcel # 3269 -125 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
OWNER: Richard Battista
APPLICANT: Kayla Short
PW 25-073 A request has been submitted to install 60’ of replacement vinyl bulkhead not to exceed 18” channelward; to add an 11.16’ pier extension to an existing 33.34’ pier; and to install one boatlift and two PWC lifts with associated pilings. All work not to exceed 50’ maximum channelward extension. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 10611 POINT LOOKOUT RD Parcel # 1742A-23 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
OWNER: Doyle Grabarck
APPLICANT: Vista Design, Inc. OCD-8/28/2t
NOTICE
OF PUBLIC HEARING
WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS AGENDA THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 11, 2025
Pursuant to the provisions of the Worcester County Zoning Ordinance, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held in-person before the Board of Zoning Appeals for Worcester County, in the Board Room (Room 1102) on the first floor of the Worcester County Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland. Audio and video recording will take place during this public hearing.
The public is invited to view this meeting live online athttps://worcestercountymd.swagit.co m/live
6:30 p.m. Case No. 25-51, on the lands of Christina and Jeffrey Lank, on the application of Kristina Watkowski, requesting an after-thefact variance to the side yard setback from 20 feet to 18.5 feet (to encroach 1.5 feet) for a detached garage and an after-the-fact variance to the side yard setback from 20 feet to 7.7 feet (to encroach 12.3 feet) for a shed in the A-1 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-
116(c)(4), ZS 1-201(b)(5) and ZS 1305, located at 7109 Ayres Lane Road, Tax Map 72, Parcel 101, Tax District 2, Worcester County, Maryland.
6:35 p.m. Case No. 25-50, on the lands of Build Pines, LLC, on the application of Hugh Cropper, IV, requesting a special exception to allow contractor shops in the A-2 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code Sections §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3), ZS 1-116(c)(4) and ZS 1-202(c)(13), located at 10529 Flower Street, Tax Map 25, Parcel 275, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.
6:40 p.m. Case No. 25-39, on the lands of Donald D’Aquila, on the application of Hugh Cropper IV, requesting two (2) variances to reduce the Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area Buffer (1) from 100 feet to 51.76 feet (to encroach 48.24 feet) for a proposed dwelling; and (2) from 100 feet to 12.83 feet (to encroach 87.17 feet) for a proposed driveway in the A-2 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(m), ZS 1-202(b)(5) and ZS 1-305 and Natural Resources Code §§ 3104(d)(4) and NR 3-111, located at 8718 Grey Fox Lane, Tax Map 33, Parcel 206, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.
6:45 p.m. Case No. 24-71, on the application of Maryland Coastal Bays Program, on the lands of the State of Maryland, Ruark Family LP, and Assateague Island National Seashore, requesting a modification to extend four (4) waterfront structures in excess of 125 feet by 18 feet, 25 feet, 29 feet and 150 feet for construction of a proposed living shoreline project extending to a maximum of 275 feet channelward, pursuant to Natural Resources Code §§ NR 2102(e)(1) and Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(n)(3), located at 7000 Rum Pointe Road, Tax Map 42, Parcels 8, 36, and 40, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.
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B. RANDALL COATES ESQ COATES, COATES, & COATES 204 WEST GREEN STREET P O BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863
NOTICE
TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES ESTATE NO. 20797
NOTICE IS GIVEN that the COUNTY court of PENDLETON COUNTY, WEST VIRGINIA appointed NANCY RUTH BLANKENSHIP whose address is 148 GRACELAND DR P O BOX 460 FRANKLIN, WV 26807 as the EXECUTRIX of the Estate of MICHEAL V BLANKENSHIP who died on APRIL 15, 2024 domiciled in WEST VIRGINIA, USA
The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is B RANDALL COATES whose address is 204 W GREEN ST SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1057. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: WORCESTER
All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims
with the Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or
(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY
ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074
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BWW Law Group, LLC
6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852
ANDREW J. BRENNER, et al.
6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852
Substitute Trustees/ Plaintiffs, vs.
LEON T. SAMPSON
TAMISHA L. SAMPSON
6 Sunset Island Drive, Unit 2C Ocean City, MD 21842
Defendant(s) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND
Case No. C-23-CV-24-000189
NOTICE
Notice is hereby given this 25th day of August, 2025, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings and described as 6 Sunset Island Drive, Unit 2C, Ocean City, MD 21842, made and reported by the Substitute Trustee, will be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 29th day of September, 2025, provided a copy of this NOTICE be inserted in some weekly newspaper printed in said County, once in each of three successive weeks before the 22nd day of September, 2025.
The report states the purchase price at the Foreclosure sale to be $499,000.00.
Susan R. Braniecki Clerk, Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland
True Copy
Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD
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Call: 410-723-6397
Fax: 410-723-6511 or E-mail: legals@octodaydispatch.com
IN THE MATTER OF THE TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS FOR THE PROPOSED ADOPTION OF: A MINOR CHILD IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, FLORIDA
FAMILY LAW DIVISION CASE NO.: 25-DR-004060
DIVISION: I
NOTICE
OF ACTION AND HEARING TO TERMINATE PARENTAL RIGHTS PENDING ADOPTION
TO: Benjamin Vargas III or any known or unknown legal or biological father of the male child born on January 3, 2015, to Katrina Sierra deOliveira Martin
Last Known Residence Address: 304 Woodcreek Drive, Bolingbrook, Illinois 60440 Last Known Location: Ocean City, Worcester County, Maryland
YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that a Verified Petition for Stepparent Adoption has been filed regarding a male child born on January 3, 2015, in Richmond, Virginia, to Katrina Sierra deOliveira Martin. The legal father, Benjmain Vargas III, is Caucasian/Mexican, 34 years old, 5’ 5” tall, approximately 150 pounds, brown hair and eyes, facial hair (beard) if possible, thin build. All other physical characteristics and his residence address are unknown and cannot be reasonably ascertained. Additionally, the identity and all physical characteristics and the residence address of any known or unknown legal or biological father are unknown and cannot be reasonably ascertained.
There will be a hearing on the Verified Petition for Stepparent Adoption on October 1, 2025, at 9:30AM EST, before Judge Lindsay M. Alvarez (Edgecomb Courthouse, 800 E. Twiggs St., Courtroom 408, Tampa, FL 33602). The Court has set aside 15 minutes for the hearing, which will be held via Zoom at the following link: https://zoom.us/j/ 3704372256. The grounds for termination of parental rights are those set forth in Fla. Stat. § 63.089.
You may object by appearing at the hearing and filing a written objection with the Court. If you desire counsel and believe you may be entitled to representation by a courtappointed attorney, you must contact the Office of the Clerk of Court and request that an "Affidavit of Indigent Status" be mailed to you for completion and return to the Office of the Clerk of Court.
If you elect to file written defenses to said Petition, you are required to serve a copy on Petitioner's attorney, Tate Healey Webster, 418 W. Platt St., Suite B, Tampa, FL 33606-2244, (813) 258-3355, and file the original response or pleading in the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Hillsborough County, Florida, 800 E. Twiggs St., Tampa, FL 33602, (813) 276-8100, on or before September 23,
2025, a date which is not less than 30 nor more than 60 days after the date of first publication of this Notice.
UNDER § 63.089, FLORIDA STATUTES, FAILURE TO FILE A WRITTEN RESPONSE TO THIS NOTICE WITH THE COURT AND TO APPEAR AT THE OCTOBER 1, 2025, HEARING CONSTITUTES GROUNDS UPON WHICH THE COURT SHALL END ANY PARENTAL RIGHTS YOU MAY HAVE REGARDING THE MINOR CHILD.
If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact the ADA Coordinator, Edgecomb Courthouse, 800 E. Twiggs St., Room 604, Tampa, FL 33602, (813) 272-7040, at least seven days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is less than seven days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711.
DATED in Tampa, Hillsborough County, Florida, this 12th day of August 2025.
VICTOR D. CRIST
Clerk of the Circuit Court Hillsborough County Courthouse 800 E. Twiggs St. Tampa, FL 33602
By:
Deputy Clerk Isha Tirado-Baker OCD-8/21/4t
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 11, 2025 AT 6:00 PM
Pursuant to the provisions of Sections 110-93(2) and 110-93(3), Powers of the Code, an application has been filed under Sections 11094(3)(a) and 110-95(1)(a) to request (1) a special yard exception for a proposed dwelling to be 2.9 feet from a front lot line; and (2) a variance of 3.5 feet from the 10-foot separation distance requirement for a proposed dwelling to be 6.5 feet from a neighboring dwelling. The property is described as Lot E-24 of the Isle of Wight Mobile Home Park Plat. It is
further described as being located on the south side of Flounder Lane and is locally known as 251 Flounder Lane, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
APPLICANT: CRAIG REICHARD (BZA 2728 #25-09400012)
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-8/28/2t
MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL NOTICE OF PROPOSED LEGISLATION ORDINANCE 2025-16
NOTICE is hereby given by the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill that Ordinance 2025-16 was introduced for first reading at a regular meeting on August 12, 2025. A fair summary of the ordinance is as follows: An Ordinance of the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill (the "Town") To Authorize the Purchase, Through Donation By Worcester County, of Real Property Being All that Property Lying in the Corporate Limits of Snow Hill Known as Lot 61A and a portion of Parcel 95, as shown on a plan entitled “Subdivision of the Lands of County Commissioners of Worcester County, Maryland”, prepared by Davis, Bowen & Friedel, Inc., dated December 2024”. The Mayor and Council of Snow Hill (“Snow Hill”) are developing what is known as the Bank Street Promenade Project and the County has agreed to donate land for the use in the Bank Street Promenade Project. The second reading will take place on September 9th, 2025 at the regular Town Hall meeting. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review at Town Hall, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863.
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MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL NOTICE OF PROPOSED LEGISLATION ORDINANCE 2025-18
NOTICE is hereby given by the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill that Ordinance 2025-18 was introduced for first reading at a regular meeting on August 12, 2025. A fair summary of the ordinance is as follows: An Ordinance of the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill (the "Town") To Amend Chapter 162, Entitled Streets and Sidewalks of the of the Town of Snow
Hill, Maryland. The Mayor and Council of Snow Hill (“Snow Hill”) desires to regulate the use of the Town of Snow Hill waterfront property locally known as Byrd Park, Sturgis Park and Gateway Park in relation to docking. The second reading will take place on September 9th, 2025 at the regular Town Hall meeting. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review at Town Hall, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863.
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MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL
NOTICE
OF PROPOSED LEGISLATION ORDINANCE 2025-14
NOTICE is hereby given by the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill that Ordinance 2025-14 was introduced for first reading at a regular meeting on August 12, 2025. A fair summary of the ordinance is as follows: An Ordinance of the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill (the "Town") To Amend Chapter 200, Entitled Zoning, Section 200-41, Entitled Residential Use Category, and Section 200-53, Entitled Permitted Uses Tables of the Code of the Town of Snow Hill, Maryland. The Mayor and Council of Snow Hill (“Snow Hill”) desires to recognize recent State legislation for Housing Expansion and Affordability to permit certain new manufactured homes or modular homes in zones that allow single family residential uses and in doing so amendments are needed to the table of permitted uses. The second reading will take place on September 9th, 2025 at the regular Town Hall meeting. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review at Town Hall, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863.
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MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL
NOTICE
OF PROPOSED LEGISLATION ORDINANCE 2025-13
NOTICE is hereby given by the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill that Ordinance 2025-13 was introduced for first reading at a regular meeting on August 12, 2025. A fair summary of the ordinance is as follows: An Ordinance of the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill (the "Town") To Amend Chapter 174, Entitled Trailers and Mobile Homes, Sections 174-1 Through 174-7, of the Code of the Town of Snow Hill Maryland. The Mayor and Council of Snow Hill
(“Snow Hill”) desires to recognize recent State legislation for Housing Expansion and Affordability to permit certain new manufactured homes or modular homes in zones that allow single family residential uses. The second reading will take place on September 9th, 2025 at the regular Town Hall meeting. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review at Town Hall, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863.
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MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL
NOTICE
OF PROPOSED LEGISLATION ORDINANCE 2025-17
NOTICE is hereby given by the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill that Ordinance 2025-17 was introduced for first reading at a regular meeting on August 12, 2025. A fair summary of the ordinance is as follows: An Ordinance of the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill (the "Town") To Amend Chapter 131, Entitled Penalties, Fees, Fines and Other Charges, Section 131-8, Entitled Docking Fees of the Code of the Town of Snow Hill, Maryland. The Mayor and Council of Snow Hill (“Snow Hill”) desires to update the docking fees related to the use of the Town of Snow Hill waterfront property. The second reading will take place on September 9th, 2025 at the regular Town Hall meeting. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review at Town Hall, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863.
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WORCESTER COUNTY NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
The Worcester County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing and will receive public comment on the following map amendment on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at 10:30 AM in the Worcester County Government Center, Room 1101, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland:
Rezoning Case No. 451, filed by Hugh Cropper on behalf of Richard and Elizabeth Smithson, property owners, for an amendment to the Official Zoning Maps to change approximately 150 acres of land located on the north side of Public Landing Road (MD Route 365), west of Outten Road, Snow Hill, in the Second Tax District of Worcester County, Maryland, from E-1 Estate District to A-1 Agricultural District.
A copy of the file on Rezoning Case No. 451 and the Planning Commission’s recommendation, which will be entered into record at the public hearing, are available to view online at www.co.worcester.md.us or during normal business hours at the Department of Development, Review
and Permitting, One West Market Street, Room 1201, Snow Hill, MD. THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
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BWW Law Group, LLC 6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852
ANDREW J. BRENNER, et. al. 6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852
Substitute Trustees
Plaintiffs vs.
BILLY RAY BROCATO (DECEASED)
1921 North Old Mill Drive Pocomoke City, MD 21851
Defendant(s) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND
Case No. C-23-CV-25-000104
NOTICE
Notice is hereby given this 29th day of August, 2025, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings and described as 1921 North Old Mill Drive, Pocomoke City, MD 21851, made and reported by the Substitute Trustee, will be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 6th day of October, 2025, provided a copy of this NOTICE be inserted in some weekly newspaper printed in said County, once in each of three successive weeks before the 29th day of September, 2025.
The report states the purchase price at the Foreclosure sale to be $210,125.00.
Susan R. Braniecki Clerk, Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-9/4/3t
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20810 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JOHN HAROLD FREEBERGER
Notice is given that Diane Edwards, 10405 Saratoga Ln., Berlin, MD 21811-2724, was on August 25, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of John Harold Freeberger who died on July 20, 2025, with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 25th day of February, 2026.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with
the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
Diane Edwards 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:
September 4, 2025
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COMBINED NOTICE
to Public of Finding of No Significant Impact and Notice of Intent to Request Release of Funds
September 4, 2025 Worcester County Commissioners One West Market St. Room 1103, Snow Hill MD, 21862 410-632-1194
The purpose of this Notice is to satisfy two separate but related procedural requirements for activities to be taken by the Worcester County Commissioners.
On or about September 20, 2025 the Worcester County Commissioners will request that the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development release funds under the Maryland Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program. These funds are to be used for the following CDBG project, pending approved application for funds.
Project Title: 611 Homeless Shelter Complex
Purpose of Project: Worcester County Commissioners, in partnership with Diakonia, a nonprofit organization, proposes to construct an affordable rental housing complex that provides a Housing First solution for individuals transitioning from homeless shelters, institutions (including incarceration), or engaged through a mobile homeless outreach team. The facility will not only offer stable, affordable housing, but also integrate essential support services, including collaborative veteran services, intensive case management, an expanded community food pantry, and a thrift store that generates program income while offering low-cost items and food to those in need. Additionally, the complex will create
work-entry opportunities for residents, fostering self-sufficiency, community integration, and connection to vital resources throughout the region.
Location: 9601 Stephen Decatur Highway (State Rt. 611), Ocean City, MD 21842
Total Project Costs: The total estimated project cost is $10,750,000, with funding anticipated from federal, state, and local grants, supplemented by private donations.
FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT
Notice is hereby given that the Worcester County Commissioners has prepared an Environmental Review Record on the project described in this Notice and has determined that said project will have no signif-
icant impact on the human environment. Therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) is not required and no further environmental review of the project is proposed prior to requesting the Release of Funds.
The finding of No Significant Impact is based on a review that analyzed various potential impacts like those on air and water quality, public health and safety, and historical or cultural resources, and it was concluded that any potential adverse effects would be negligible or minor. The review also ensured that the proposed project adheres to applicable laws, requirements, and regulations for environmental protection. There were no findings to indicate
the project would have any significant effect on natural, cultural or community resources.
The Environmental Review Record which documents the Environmental Review of this project is available for public examination at the Worcester County Commissioners offices at 1 West Market Street, Room 1103, Snow Hill MD 21863, during normal business hours.
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON FINDING
All interested agencies, groups and persons disagreeing with this decision are invited to submit written comments regarding the environmental impacts of the described project to the office of Worcester County Commissioners and to the Maryland Department of Housing
Put Your Business Card
and Community Development. All such comments must be received no later than September 20,2025 All comments will be considered, and the Worcester County Commissioners will not request the release of funds nor take any action on the projects prior to this date.
REQUEST FOR RELEASE OF FUNDS
The Worcester County Commissioners will undertake the project described above with Community Development Block Grant funds, pending an approved application for funds. This Notice also certifies that Theodore J. Elder, serving in the official capacity of President, consents to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to environmental reviews decisionmaking, and action; and that these responsibilities have been satisfied. The legal effect of the certification is that upon its approval, the Worcester County Commissioners may use the CDBG Funds and the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) will have satisfied its responsibilities under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969.
OBJECTIONS TO RELEASE OF FUNDS
Objections to the release of funds will be accepted by the Department of Housing and Community Development only if one or more of the following apply: (a) that the certification was not in fact executed by the Certifying Officer; or (b) that the Worcester County Commissioners has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or finding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR Part 58; or (c) the grant recipient or other participants in the development process have committed funds, incurred costs or undertaken activities not authorized by this part before Release of Funds and approval of the environmental certification by DHCD; or (d) another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality. All interested agencies, groups and persons disagreeing with this decision are invited to submit written comments to the Worcester County Commissioners and to the CDBG Environmental Officer, MD Department of Housing and Community Development, 7800 Harkins Road, Lanham, Maryland 20706. All such comments must be received no later than October 16, 2025
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Events scheduled next week to honor lives lost on 9/11
Lighting tribute planned in remembrance of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Sept. 5, 2025) In remembrance of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, the Ocean City Fire Department will lead a series of events on the Boardwalk beginning Friday.
For the fifth 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.
Starting at dusk on Friday, Sept. 5, and continuing nightly through Sept. 11, twin beams will illuminate the sky in a tribute to the lives lost 24 years ago.
The beams will be set against the backdrop of the American flag, to be displayed from a local fire department’s aerial tower truck.
“Each evening will feature Taps presented by an OCVFC bugler followed by family-oriented video tributes,” a Facebook post from the fire department reads. “Representatives from area fire departments will serve
Saturrdday 10am-Noon 201 S. Her
Saturrdday 10am-Noon
Saturrdday 11am-1pm 27450 Cover
Saturrdday 11am-3pm Saturrdday 11am-1pm 11204
as ambassadors and accept donations to support the memorial lighting. These programs provide an educational opportunity for younger generations and serve as a reminder of the importance of remembrance, unity, and support in times of tragedy.”
In addition to the nightly programs, the department will host a morning tribute at the firefighter memorial on Sept. 11. The event will be held from 8:46 a.m. to 10:28 a.m., during which time firefighters will stand at attention during six different time stamps denoting the four plane strikes and the collapse of the Twin Towers in New York that occurred that day. The department will then join the Red Knights Chapter #3 at noon for a joint memorial service.
“All residents, visitors, and first responders are invited to join Ocean City’s first responders at the firefighter’s memorial for these significant commemorative events,” the department’s Facebook post reads. “The ceremonies provide an opportunity for our community to stand together, honor the memories of the fallen, and reflect on the resilience and strength that emerged from one of the darkest periods in our nation's history.”
PHOTO COURTESY
The twin Remembrance Beams of Lights at the Ocean City Fire Memorial at North Division Street downtown illuminate the sky behind the Boardwalk sign during last year’s practice run for the official Sept. 11 memorial Lighting Ceremony.
OC board gives extension for hotel
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Sept. 5, 2025) A resort developer now has more time to start construction of a new bayside hotel following the Ocean City Board of Zoning Appeals’ (BZA) unanimous vote to extend its approval of a parking exception and two setback variances for the Kyma Luxury Resort Hotel.
Hugh Cropper, the attorney representing Effie’s Beach LLC, said the project – initially set to begin construction last March – had been delayed as his client worked with the mayor and Ocean City Council to execute an easement agreement for a future bayside boardwalk on the property.
“After we got this signed in February, we weren’t able to start last March,” he explained. “So, we’re going to start this March.”
Cropper told board members last week his client was seeking to extend the board’s approvals, which includes a special exception for 11 com-
pact parking spaces, a variance for a zero-foot side yard setback on South 1st Street, and a variance for a zerofoot landscape setback on South 1st Street. He said those approvals expire Jan. 27, 2026, but that his client was seeking a one-year extension.
“These are all valid variances,” he said.
Specifically, Cropper noted the new hotel would have the required number of parking spaces, but that a parking exception would allow for 11 of those spaces to be smaller than required by code. He added the landscaping and side yard setbacks would make room for mechanical equipment, which would be hidden from public view.
“That variance allows the enclosure of equipment only,” he said.
Ocean City Zoning Analyst Chase Phillips told board members that staff had no objections to the extension request. If the request is supported, he said the BZA approvals would be valid through Jan. 27, 2027.
“It is a large-scale project that has a lot of moving parts,” he said. “Additionally, the applicant needed to secure a fire lane through Sunset
Park, which did delay the permitting process. There’s a valid site plan and a valid permit issued by the department, but the code requires that construction continue to be continuously underway. So, this extension would cover construction.”
Cropper said developing an agreement for the bayside boardwalk in exchange for access to Sunset Park’s fire lane had taken additional time. While a foundation permit has already been secured to begin construction, he said his client was seeking additional time.
“As Mr. Phillips pointed out, this project does have all permits in place, and we’ve actually pulled a foundation permit, so we can actually implement that special exception now by going out there and driving some pilings,” he explained. “But the developer needs the flexibility. He doesn’t want to start and then have to stop and then go again. This year will give him additional flexibility.”
Following Cropper’s presentation, the board voted unanimously to grant a one-year extension.
“I think they’ve made their case for a year,” Chair Chris Rudolf said.
REAL ESTATE MARKETPLACE
Check given for first marlin catch
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Sept. 5, 2025) City officials this week recognized a lady angler for reeling in the first white marlin of the 2025 season.
On Tuesday, the mayor and Ocean City Council presented a $5,000 check to angler Hannah Melvin and Wrecker Capt. Bobby Layton for the first white marlin catch and release of the season. The catch took place on the morning of June 14, during the Tunas and Tiaras ladies tuna fishing
tournament.
“We just got super lucky to be in the right place at the right time,” Melvin told council members this week.
This year’s first white marlin catch and release occurred offshore at the Washington Canyon, just before 7:30 a.m. Layton, joined by mates Cody Smith and Zach Little, told officials Tuesday the catch happened 30 minutes into their fishing day.
“We all knew one hadn’t been caught yet,” he recalled, “so we were all freaking out, screaming ‘It’s money! Money’s swimming by the boat.’”
With Melvin on the rod, the white marlin was reeled in for a picture and then released. From there, Layton quickly jumped on the radio to confirm the first catch.
“We pretty much got on the radio right away to make sure, saying, ‘Hey, I think we just caught the first one of the season,’” he said. “Everyone was like, ‘Yep, sure did. Thanks a lot.’”
Layton applauded Melvin for bringing in the first white marlin catch and release of the season.
Melvin added the day was made special by the fact it was the first white marlin she had ever caught.
“That was my first white marlin, so it was extra memorable,” she said.
“Just very thankful, all around, for everyone that was there to make it happen.”
Each year, the mayor and council offer a $5,000 prize to the angler that catches and releases the first official white marlin of the summer season. A few years back during budget deliberations, the town briefly considered eliminating the annual prize. But after outcry from the local fishing community, it was reinstated.
Last year, the first white marlin of the season was caught and released on June 1. Three years prior to that, the town recorded a white marlin catch and release on May 23, the earliest date ever recorded since records have been kept by the Ocean City Marlin Club. The latest catch date ever recorded for a white marlin was July 20, 1936.
As a member of the Ocean City Marlin Club, the Wrecker will receive $5,000 for the first catch, while Melvin will take home the $5,000 city prize.
Melvin is just one of two women anglers to reel in the first white marlin of the season, according to the publication Fish In OC. In 2005, angler Jennifer Norfolk-Sleane caught and released the first white of the season aboard the Two Days.
Hannah Melvin was joined by members of the fishing boat the Wrecker as the Mayor and Council presented her a $5,000 check, a tradition reserved for the one the reels in the first white marlin fish each summer.
New mural coming to Northside Park facility
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Sept. 5, 2025) Ocean City officials this week selected a new mural design for a building at Northside Park.
In April, the mayor and City Council entered into a Memorandum Of Understanding with We Are Limitless Studios LLC to design a wall mural for an outside wall of the east gym at Northside Park. And on Tuesday, the council voted to proceed with one of the four design options submitted by artist Brandon Bell.
“Basically, they are going to design and paint a mural on the back of the building at no cost to the town,” said Ocean City Recreation and Parks Director Kate Gaddis, “and they’ll maintain it for 10 years.”
Gaddis told the council this week that Bell had contacted her predecessor – former recreation and parks director Susan Petito – last year to discuss opportunities for a public art installation. And last fall, a location was identified on the back wall of Northside Park’s east gym.
From there, designs were submitted to City Manager Terry McGean, who forwarded his recommendation to the Ocean City Recreation and Parks Committee for review and approval. However, Gaddis said the committee’s voting members decided against the selected design and instead opted to seek the input of the City Council, which made the final call this week.
“The selected mural looks great,” Council President Matt James said of McGean’s recommendation.
For his part, Councilman John Gehrig, committee liaison, said city officials didn’t always agree when it came to issues that involved design or naming – alluding to lengthy debates the City Council had over Boardwalk signage and the naming of Bayside Park at 3rd Street. He said committee members simply wanted the council to weigh in on the recommended mural.
“Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder,” he said. “So, I think it was prudent to get everyone’s input and
buy-in.”
When asked about his recommendation, McGean said the mural he selected was a “nice representation” of Ocean City and incorporated the city’s “Somewhere to Smile About” brand. With that said, the council voted 5-1, with Gehrig opposed and Councilwoman Carol Proctor absent, to approve McGean’s selected mural design.
“I really like the price, and the term,” Councilman Tony DeLuca said.
City officials this week voted to approve the design, pictured, for the mural planned for a building at Northside Park.
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PHOTO COURTESY OF TYLER LAYTON
A morning surf session with a camera by a local photographer yielded this breaker last Tuesday, as the remnants of Hurricane Erin passed offshore.
TidalHealth honored with a Blue Cross distinction
TidalHealth has recently been designated a Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) “Blue Distinction Center + (BDC+) for Total Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery” for its dedication to treating individuals living with joint pain.
“TidalHealth is proud to have our Salisbury and Seaford hospitals recognized for meeting the rigorous se-
lection criteria set by the BCBS Centers of Excellence program,” said TidalHealth President/CEO Steve Leonard.
“We provide our patients with exceptional care, and it’s always gratifying to have this level of national designation to confirm that commitment to outstanding care and patient safety is on par with the best joint replacement programs in America.”
Both TidalHealth Peninsula Regional and TidalHealth Nanticoke have
implemented a systematic approach to improving quality of life, which makes available to patients the best surgical options and outcomes at an affordable rate, a statement from the hospital said.
The award evaluates how organizations, like TidalHealth, use clinical outcomes and performance measures to identify opportunities to improve care, case volume, demographics and affordability.
Blue Cross makes information
about the quality and cost of healthcare services available to its members to assist them in making informed decisions about their healthcare needs.
In line with this goal, the insurer recognizes hospitals and facilities in its network that offer specialized clinical services for certain health conditions.
Facilities, like TidalHealth Nanticoke and TidalHealth Peninsula Regional, are selected for consistently delivering outstanding evidencebased, joint replacement care.
Property sale, solar system reviews required
By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer
(Sept. 5, 2025) Solar panels on a home can be a great selling advantage, one that provides very affordable utility bills. This type of technology is called a solar photovoltaic (“PV”) panel system or “Solar System.” Solar Systems may include all components, solar panels, inverters, charge controllers, batteries, battery charge controller, backup generator, solar array disconnect, power meter, power converter and cables, if applicable, that are presently in place on the Property.
But, the finances of a Solar System can be complicated so full disclosure on the
system and any remaining loan payments, lease payments, transfer fees, or warranties should be fully disclosed when a property is listed.
The financial status of a Solar System can be any of the following:
• Owned by Seller free and clear (not subject to an existing lease, power purchase agreement or loan).
• Subject to an existing lease agreement, power purchase agreement (PPA) or financed by an unpaid loan.
An addendum to the contract of sale needs to be executed to determine who
will be paying for any remaining balance left on a solar loan, or whether an existing lease agreement needs to be assumed by the buyer. This is a negotiable element of a contract of sale, so it is possible that the Seller pays off the Solar System financing or buy-out/pre-pay the remainder of the Solar System lease or PPA and shall include the Solar System as part of the sale of the Property and convey the Solar System to Buyer at Closing.
It is important that the Seller delivers to the Buyer the most recent version of the Solar System Lease, PPA, or Solar System Financing and all of the Solar System documents in Seller’s along with the contact information to the Solar Sys-
tem company or loan servicer, as the new Buyer will need to obtain approval to assume the lease or loan.
Buyers can also impose a Buyer review period to give them time to review the documents and terms of the Solar System. The Buyer can review costs, insurability, operation and/or value of the Solar System. This may include age, maintenance, solar company or loan servicer fees, end of lease terms, output and production guarantees, utility bills, grid tie-in, payment increases, homeowner’s insurance coverage, and taxes.
Lauren Bunting is Broker of Record with Keller Williams Realty of Delmarva in Ocean City.
State gives Sturgis Park money to Snow Hill
Md. Board of Public Works approves $11 million in Natural Resources projects
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Sept. 5, 2025) The Maryland Board of Public Works, the threemember committee that controls much of the state’s capital spending, has committed new state funds to Snow Hill for upgrades to Sturgis Park.
The board, which consists of the governor, state treasurer and the comptroller, pledged $298,215 to the planning and construction of a new restroom and associated amenities at the park, which is located in downtown Snow Hill on the banks of the Pocomoke River. The general obliga-
tion bonds come from the state’s Community Parks and Playgrounds Program.
Snow Hill Town Manager Rick Pollitt traveled to the Maryland State House on Aug. 27 to accept the money and give his thanks in person. From a lectern in the governor’s reception room, he extended his arms widely, telling the board to “look at me as one great big thank-you note.”
‘It’s so easy to get trapped in the paperwork and the meetings and the constant conversations and considerations back and forth, that sometimes we miss sight of the people that are on the other end that are going to be actually out there enjoying the things that you’ve helped us fund.’
ations back and forth,” Pollitt said, “that sometimes we miss sight of the people that are on the other end that are going to be actually out there enjoying the things that you’ve helped us fund.”
Rick Pollitt, Snow Hill Town Manager
“It’s so easy to get trapped in the paperwork and the meetings and the constant conversations and consider-
Pollitt also remarked that sometimes the Easter Shore feels separate from the rest of the state, divided by Chesapeake Bay, to the point of becoming a proxy for the differing viewpoints of rural and urban America.
“As I was sitting here this morning, listening to all the progress in
what we call ‘the big city,’ it makes you feel proud – even from the lowlands, the marshy areas of the Lower Shore – to see all this energy, to see this great sense of community, this commitment that we are one state and we are one community. We want to be a part of that,” Pollitt said.
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, chair of the Board of Public Works, welcomed Pollitt’s remarks warmly.
“You are amazing and we’re grateful for your leadership,” the governor replied. “And what you say is exactly right. It’s important for this entire state that all 24 jurisdictions, everybody that calls the place of Maryland home, they are the priority.”
“Please come to Snow Hill to see us,” Pollitt said in closing.
Also at its meeting, the Board of Public Works also distributed funds to other Worcester County projects.
Under Maryland Department of the Environment (DNR) grants for enhanced nutrient removal at wastewater treatment plants, Pocomoke City was awarded $53,335 and Snow Hill got $34,875.
These were among 18 total DNR projects the board approved for a total of $11 million in funding. Agenda items were approved without discussion.
The board also approved the acquisition of forest lands located along Route 113. The 27-acre property will be managed by the Maryland Forest Service as an addition to Pocomoke State Forest. The $325,000 purchase was made using money from Program Open Space.
Lands will provide a buffer for Forest Interior Dwelling Species habitat recognized by the National Audubon Society as an Important Bird Area and will contribute to the “Maryland 5 Million Trees Initiative,” according to state officials.
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Zumba, tai chi, yoga offered in Ocean Pines
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Sept. 4, 2025) With summer coming to an end, Ocean Pines Association’s Recreation and Parks Department is gearing up to offer new and returning activities and programs this fall and winter.
In an effort to promote fitness, OPA’s rec team is offering various sessions of afternoon Zumba classes this off-season, held on Wednesdays from 4:30 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. at the OPA Community Center. The current sixweek series began on Aug. 13 and will run until Sept. 17. Drop-ins are $10.
Additional Zumba classes will be offered in packages of five or six weeks, all on Wednesday evenings, from Oct. 1 to Nov. 5, Nov. 12 to Dec. 17, Jan. 7 to Feb. 11, Feb. 18 to March 25 and April 1 to May 6. The Nov. 12 to Dec. 17 series is only five classes, as no Zumba will be hosted the week of Thanksgiving.
The five-week session is $40 for Ocean Pines residents and $45 for non-residents. The six-class packages are $45 for OPA citizens and $50 for those who live outside the community. Drop-ins will also be available for $10 each class.
In the same vein, Zumba toning, an exercise that combines dance moves with strength training, will also be offered by OPA this fall and winter, and into spring.
Classes will be hosted on Thursday mornings from 9 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. from Oct. 9 to Nov. 13, Jan. 8 to Feb. 12, Feb. 19 to March 26 and April 2 to May 7. Each six-week series is $45 for OPA residents and $5o for nonresidents.
Furthermore, OPA will host multilevel yoga this fall on Tuesdays from Sept. 9 to Oct. 14 and Oct. 28 to Dec. 2 at 8:15 a.m. The lessons offer an introduction to basic yoga poses. Instructors will lead flows that focus on alignment, strength, endurance and balance. Participants are required to bring their own yoga mats.
The yoga sessions are $40 for Ocean Pines residents and $50 for nonresidents. Drop-ins are offered for $10 a class.
For a less traditional fitness method, the community will have tai chi at the community center on Tuesdays from Sept. 9 until Dec. 23 from 9:40 a.m. to 10:40 a.m.
According to an OPA ad, “Tai chi is clinically proven to be one of the most beneficial exercises to improve health, fitness and relaxation.”
OPA’s tai chi classes will cover the 24 Fforms practice of Paul Lam, a family physician and leader in the field of tai chi for health improvement. The moves will help participants with alignment, balance and
bringing the mind back to the body.
For kids, OPA will have skateboarding classes this fall, hosted by Berlin skater Matt Dove. The lessons, 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., are offered to girls and boys aged 8 to 16 and will be held on Mondays and Tuesdays in September and October, beginning Sept. 8. The October session will kick off on Oct. 6.
The skateboarding courses are $145 per month for Ocean Pines residents and $155 for nonresidents. Families must provide their children with their own skateboards, helmets and knee pads.
For OPA’s youngest, the recreation department is hosting “Toddler Time.” Parents will have the opportunity to socialize their children, ages 18 months to three years, in the community center gym. Indoor playtime, small crafts and music movement are the focus of the offering. Guardians are required to stay with their kids for the duration of the sessions.
Toddler Time will be held on Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. from Sept. 11 to Oct. 30 and Nov. 6 to Jan. 15. The sessions are $25 for Ocean Pines residents and $30 for nonresidents. Parents and kids may also drop in for $4.
Also, for the younger crowd, fall Tball is scheduled in Ocean Pines this autumn for children aged four to six years old. The activity will be held each Saturday at the Manklin Meadows Ball
Field from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. starting Sept. 20.
OPA will once again offer its bus trips this fall, with an addition. On Friday, Sept. 12, the rec department has arranged a trip to Sight and Sound Theaters in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, to see a stage production of the biblical story of Noah’s Ark. The advertisement promises “jaw-dropping stage effects and live animals.”
The bus trip will depart from the Ocean Pines Community Center at 9 a.m. on Sept. 12. The show is scheduled for3 p.m. Cost is $127 per person, including transportation from Ocean Pines and event ticket.
Because limited seats are available, interested parties should reserve their spots as soon as possible by contacting OPA Rec and Parks.
Lastly, birding will be a staple in Ocean Pines this fall. Starting Sept. 20, American Birding Association Director Wayne Klockner will teach nature enthusiasts how it’s done.
While the community’s outdoor pools may be closing this month, Ocean Piners will have plenty to do this offseason. For registration and more information about OPA’s Recreation and Parks Department offerings, call 410-641-7052 or go to the team’s page on Ocean Pines’ official website.
SCHOOL BELLS RING AGAIN
Approximately 6,841 students returned to the 14 schools within the Worcester County Public School system on Tuesday. Above, Superintendent of Schools Annette Wallace and Board of Education members visited each school to greet students on opening day.
are some
Pictured
scenes.
PHOTO COURTESY OF WCP/OCFD
Opinions
No SHA money for other needs
Considering that the State of Maryland was happy to pursue its green agenda at the expense of the Ocean City-area economy, one would think the state would have done more for the resort area for bearing that burden.
Regardless of how one feels about US Wind’s offshore wind energy project, it remains that state government hasn’t seen fit to repay this area for trouble it didn’t cause.
Specifically, when the Department of Transportation hands out money for roads, highways and bridges, northern Worcester County doesn’t get much, because, theoretically, the roads and highways in more populous areas handle more traffic.
In terms of the total number of vehicles that use a stretch of highway during a year’s time, that may be true, but it might not be true if traffic were to be measured by its density.
In other words, Route 589 is one clogged artery that could see as many or more cars per 100 yards of space as any road in Maryland. But that doesn’t factor into the volume equation the state uses when it hands out money for highway projects.
Hence, no money will be forthcoming from the department for Route 589 for at least five more years, according to its consolidated plan.
This is even though Route 589 has a history of pedestrian and bicycle safety problems. On Wednesday, in fact, a cyclist had to be airlifted to Shock Trauma with a possible head injury after an accident on Route 589 near the Shore Stop.
For years, local officials and residents have been pleading for help to prevent life-threatening situations such as this one, and yet nothing. To be clear, this is not the fault of the State Highway Administration District Office in Salisbury. Its personnel are saddled with the sad obligation of reporting to local officials the results of decisions made elsewhere.
Those decisions, however, appear to be based on counting cars and votes and apparently this area doesn’t have enough of either ... despite everything it does and has been told to do by the state.
PUBLIC EYE
Now, some real input
After going on (and on and ... etc.) recently about the misuse of the word unique, it occurred to me that now might be a good time to offer my input on some other overused terms, moving forward.
Take the word iconic, for instance. It has become a go-to modifier for anyone who wants to say something is special.
This is even though we already know the subject mentioned is special and don’t need to be reminded in case we forgot.
ganizations and even businesses insist on getting input instead of opinions.
“I’d like to get some community input on this,” an official will say at least once a week. I guess it’s because input sounds more important than “say,” as in, “I’d like to hear what the public has to say.”
It could be, of course, that officials file input in one folder and “just saying” in another folder, even though input and the variations of “say” and “talk” are close to the same thing.
NEWS
EDITOR STEWART DOBSON; EXECUTIVE EDITOR STEVE GREEN
OC Today-Dispatch is published Fridays by FLAG Publications, Inc. 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 410-723-6397 All content copyright 2025
By Stewart Dobson
Does that make sense? No?
Try this then: The MerriamWebster Dictionary defines “iconic” as meaning “widely recognized and well-established.”Consequently, one might conclude that calling something iconic is unnecessary because “widely recognized” means: yeah, we knew that, but thanks anyway.
Ocean City’s “Iconic Boardwalk” comes to mind. It’s not as if I’m going to read those words and say to myself, “Wow, I didn’t know the Boardwalk was iconic. Now, I feel like I have to tiptoe when I walk on it.”
I know I’m sounding a little snarky here, and I don’t mean to be, since for the longest time I thought an icon was a statue of a saint or something, and I just couldn’t wrap my head around the idea of a “Saint Boardwalk,” benefactor of funnel cake makers everywhere.
I suspect I’m going to get some community input about this, moving forward, making this a good time to ask why government, or-
“I’m here this evening to input about the traffic situation,” resident William Do-Tell inputted to the council. “As I’ve been inputting, it’s way out of hand, and you have yet to input anything to me in response.”
When you think about it, you might say that input has become an icon of officialspeak, as is the terrible, very bad, awful and meaningless expression, “moving forward.”
“Well, Mr. Do-Tell, thank you for your input and I assure you that we will be looking at this moving forward.”
As opposed to what— moving backward? Or moving laterally? Side-to-side?
Maybe I’m just dense, but the use of “will be” does offer a hint that the speaker in this instance is specifically referring to the future, even though the use of “moving forward” suggests he has other options, including time travel, on the table.
On the other hand, I’m sure many officials, politicians, ordinary citizens and, yes, writers of columns as well wish they had the ability to say, “Yeah, I am sorry about that, and I’ll fix it ... moving backwards.”
Between the Lines
By Steve Green
He was simply known as Dr. Berger to many. His obituary summarizes his incredible professional career, including being a celebrated physician, owner of multiple car dealerships and the operator of the Sheraton/Clarion hotel and the former Ocean Club property. Berger’s passing last week was noted at this week’s Mayor and Council meeting in Ocean City ahead of Wednesday’s service.
“There are some people that come through that you meet who have an impact on your life and just change the game, and one of those people was Dr. Berger,” said Councilman John Gehrig. “We lost him, and that’s a big blow to Ocean City. But we were extremely fortunate to have him. He was a huge advocate for Ocean City, and every time I would sit with him I’d keep my mouth shut and left the room smarter and better. And Ocean City is better having him here. So my condolences to his whole family. Thank you very much for sharing him with us.”
Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan agreed with Gehrig, saying, “You don’t meet people like Dr. Berger everyday, and I know we all feel very privileged to have known him. I considered him a close friend, as did many, many other people. Some of them are sitting right up here. Dr. Berger arrived in Ocean City, from a business sense, sometime in the early 1980s and purchased the Sheraton hotel, and he really bought new inspiration to the word ‘hospitality’ when he came to town. And he became an instant leader in our community, especially in the hospitality industry and in tourism. He loved Ocean City. He told me that many times over and probably said it to everybody up here. And it was more than just a business to him. This was his home. He was always the first guy, whenever we had a meeting about something, and somebody needed to step up and maybe make the first commitment, or say that they’d be involved, the first person to raise their hand would be Dr. Berger. Then, others followed, because they respected and admired Dr. Berger. They figured if he was all in, they were all in. And that happened with the convention center. When we talked originally about the idea of expanding the convention center, Dr. Berger was one of the first to raise his hand. … A very generous individual. I can’t tell you how many people Dr. Berger helped, and how many people are in business today, or more successful today, because they had the guidance of Dr. Berger. That was the type of person he was. The most important thing to him was watching them succeed. It’s very difficult, a loss like this. He was a great man. … John’s right. Sometimes it is better just to sit back and listen when you are in the presence of someone like Dr. Berger because all of their intentions were towards making Ocean City a better place. God bless you, doc. We will miss you.”
***
Over the last year or so, I have been handling the police beat. It’s been 20 years since this has been my responsibility, but I have to say I enjoy it, particularly on weeks like this. The names and incidents can be detailed in the police beat column, but one particular incident had to be a topic of conversation recently for Ocean City police officers.
Last Friday, around 1:46 in the morning, a disorderly conduct call was investigated by police. When police arrived, they found a man giving the median the business. The police report read like a comedy skit. The report read, “… there was a highly intoxicated male on the median at 49th Street in the prone position thrusting his hips onto the curb and yelling, ‘yeah you know you like that %&#@.’” This begged for the headline, “curbing his enthusiasm.”
***
The Ocean City fire boat is back. It’s actually been back in service for about a year, but this summer served as a high-profile reminder how vital the boat can be on the public safety front for the area.
One of the most significant examples of the fire boat’s value came in July in response to a person being struck by a boat propeller in the Sinepuxent Bay. The fire boat happened to be nearby conducting training when the call for help came. A Good Samaritan boater had pulled the injured individual on to his boat and begun first aid. The wounded was quickly transported to the fire boat for advanced lifesaving procedures. The fire boat transported the individual to the Coast Guard station for aviation transport.
Some of the incidents when the fire boat served vital included a capsized pontoon boat in the Inlet, aiding juvenile boaters who were stranded on a mud flat, a rescue of a swimmer being carried out from shore in strong currents and several jet ski accidents.
Rt. 50 bridge closure set for January as repairs continue
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Sept. 5, 2025) Repairs will close the Route 50 bridge into Ocean City for several weeks and vehicular traffic will be detoured around Route 90 through Ocean Pines, according to the State Highway Administration.
Starting Jan. 5, State Highway Administration (SHA) crews are scheduled to work on the Harry W. Kelley Memorial Bridge’s interlocking system that connects draw spans when they are closed.
The project will require the bridge to be closed to vehicular traffic. All motorists will be detoured to Route 90 for a period of 15 days, with work scheduled to end Jan. 20.
Work also will close the Sinepux-
ent Bay channel to all marine traffic for a period of about 75 days, through March 20.
Motorists also can expect intermittent, periodic lane closures throughout the work period with traffic being diverted to MD 90 through MD 589, according to SHA. The project window closes in March.
Concrete repair work continues on the underside deck of the bridge to remove and replace spalling concrete using hydro-blasting. Single-lane closures will be scheduled throughout 2025 and into 2026.
Other work in recent years to the 83-year-old bridge has concentrated on replacing rivets, some purloins, and work on the machinery of the draw span, SHA said.
Two UMES students die in car crash outside Snow Hill
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Sept. 5, 2025) Two UMES students were killed in a car accident Wednesday night outside Snow Hill, police said.
According to the Worcester County Sherrif’s Office, Luke Jason Hawthorne, 18, of Bensalem, Pennsylvania, was driving a 2016 Chevrolet Colorado pickup truck. He failed to negotiate a curve on Nassawango Road at Camp Road. The pickup went off the road and struck a cluster of trees. He died at the scene.
His passenger, 18-year-old Munir Loyan Morris, of Capital Heights, Maryland, was flown by State Police medevac to TidalHealth in Salisbury, where he later died. There were no other occupants of the vehicle.
Police said the crash was reported at approximately 8:18 p.m. The sheriff’s traffic reconstruction team was on the scene as late as 5 a.m. Thursday, police also said.
Volunteer fire companies from Snow Hill and Girdletree responded, according to online run logs.
Police said they learned during their investigation that both men were students at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, and the university assisted with locating both victims’ families.
A statement on UMES’s website read, “Both were aviation science majors who had only just begun their journey with us at UMES. This loss is heartbreaking. Luke and Munir had only just joined our Hawk family, full of hope and potential. It is painful to think of the lives they would have led, the contributions they would have made, and the friendships they would have formed within our community.”
“As we come together in grief, please know that tomorrow’s classes will be canceled for a Day of Healing. This is a time for all of us to reflect, mourn, and begin to process this devastating loss.”
FARMERS MARKET CROWDS
Vendors and community members are pictured Sunday at the Berlin Farmers Market, which will continue through October.
SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS
The Ocean City-Berlin Rotary Club awarded three local seniors with college scholarships. Pictured, from left, are Nancy Bradford, committee chair; recipients Owen Sperry and Adam Baker; and club members Cliff Berg and Jay Warrington. Not pictured is Kamryn Black. The club meets the first and third Wednesdays of the month at Don's Seafood at the South Gate of Ocean Pines.
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SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH PRESIDENT ELECTED
Seth Thatcher, left, was elected president-elect of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines - Ocean City at the Aug. 27 meeting. A new member of the club since April 23, Thatcher, pictured with Kiwanis Club President Tom Southwell, comes with past experience as a leader, even as Lt. Governor of his former Kiwanis Club.
ROTARY NEW MEMBERS
The Ocean City-Berlin Rotary Club installed two new members recently. Pictured, from left, are Cliff Berg, co-president, and new members Lou Ann Danner and Jim Loveless.
KIWANIS GUEST SPEAKER
At the Aug. 27, weekly meeting of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean PinesOcean City, two Atlantic Club officers visited as the guest speakers. Pictured, from left, are Director Steve Goray, General Manager Sue Rodden and Kiwanis Club President Tom Southwell. The Atlantic Club, located on Route 50, states, "Our primary purpose is to help individuals and families recover from addiction while helping to reduce the social and economic impact addiction has on the Delmarva Peninsula.”
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KIWANIS NEW MEMBER
New member Patrick Foley was welcomed into the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines - Ocean City at the Aug. 27, 2025 meeting. Foley recently moved to Ocean Pines and was looking for a place to connect with something that fit his experience. He is pictured, center, with sponsor Bob Wolfing, right, and Kiwanis Club President Tom Southwell.
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Allied Berlin Victory Parade, the forgotten post-war event
By Sam Ghaleb Contributing Writer
(Sept. 5, 2025) This week, 80 years ago, the Allied Victory Parade was held in Berlin, Germany. Following the victory celebrations, in Moscow on June 24, 1945, the Soviet leader, Joseph Stalin, suggested the U.S.S.R., United States, Great Britain and France hold a united military parade in Berlin to honor the victory over Germany.
The other Allies agreed, and the event was planned for Sept. 7, 1945, near the Reichstag and the Brandenburg Gate, where the last battles of the European war occurred, before Berlin was captured by the Red Army.
According to the agreement, the parade was to be led by the supreme commanders of each nation: the USSR’s Marshal of the Soviet Union, Georgi Zhukov; Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower of the US; Field Marshal Sir Bernard Law Montgomery of Great Britain; French commander of the General Headquarters of National Defense, Jean de Lattre de Tassigny.
However, days before the event, the Soviet government was informed that Eisenhower and Montgomery declined to attend the parade in
Berlin. This left only Marshal Zhukov to greet the Allied troops.
With this new development, Marshal Zhukov asked Stalin if the parade should still proceed. The Soviet dictator responded, “They wish to reduce the meaning of the Great Victory in Berlin. Just you wait. They’ll have other tricks up their sleeve yet. Pay no attention to the Allies’ refusal and carry out the parade yourself, especially considering you have more right to it than they do.”
The opening of the parade began with Marshal Zhukov, the man who had formally accepted the German surrender to the Soviet Union, and who commanded the parade, making a speech honoring the Red Army and the expeditionary forces of the Allies.
Following his speech, Soviet troops of the 248th Infantry Division marched in a flawless formation, followed by the French and then the British soldiers, who distinguished themselves with their marching drill, with British Major-Gen. Eric Neirs commanding. More than 20,000 Berliners gathered in the area to witness the parade. It was a celebration symbolizing the victory of the Allies over Nazi Germany.
Replacing the Western Allied senior military leaders were: American Gen. George S. Patton, Jr., the military governor of Bavaria; British Major-Gen. Brian Robertson; Gen. Marie-Pierre Kœnig, commander-inchief of the French-occupied zone in Germany.
Each of the Western Allies supplied about 1,000 soldiers for the parade, while 2,000 troops came from the Soviet Union, led by Hero of the Soviet Union, Lt. Col. Georgy Lenev.
The parade was opened by marching troops, followed by the armor. Units present included: the Soviet
248th Rifle Division, the French 2nd Infantry Division, the British 131st Infantry Brigade, and the U.S. 82nd Airborne Division represented by 1,000 parachutists.
The Soviet and Allied forces present at the parade came primarily from the local garrisons. The Allied armored contingent came from the British 7th Armored Division, known as the “Desert Rats,” French 1st Armored Division, and U.S. 16th Mechanized Cavalry Group.
The Red Army used this occasion for the first public display of the Josef
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Four Nations' Victory Parade in front of the Brandenburg Gate, in Berlin
DR. LEONARD PAUL BERGER
Boca Raton, Florida/Ocean City
Dr. Leonard Paul Berger beloved husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, and friend, passed away on Aug. 27, 2025, at the age of 90. Known for his boundless energy, entrepreneurial spirit, and generosity, he lived a life full of achievement, adventure, and connection.
Leonard Berger was born Dec. 3, 1934 in Canada. His parents, Anne Berger and Jack Berger, raised their family in Baltimore, Maryland.
Leonard, affectionately known to many as Lenny, was a born salesman, beginning his career as a teenage door-to-door Bible salesman in Baltimore, where he quickly became the top in his territory.
He went on to graduate from Franklin & Marshall College in just three years, then earned his medical degree at The University of Maryland. During the Berlin Crisis, he served proudly in the U.S. Army with the 92nd Field Hospital, in Augusta Georgia, finishing his service as a captain. He built a thriving medical practice in Parkville, Maryland, where he was remembered as the kind of doctor who still carried his black bag and made house calls. Never one to limit himself to one field, he expanded into business with great success - owning car dealerships from Maryland to New Jersey, including Datsun, Corvette, Pontiac, Oldsmobile, Buick, Saab, Porshe and Mercedes. In a re-
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Stalin III heavy tank, with 52 tanks from the Second Guards Tank Army participating. Marshal Zhukov addressed the 20,000 attendees, and parade participants, and said, that, “...from now [on], humanity has rid itself of the threat of a German attack from the West and Japanese thuggery in the East.”
Soviet weaponry present at the parade was most remarkable. There were more of the famous T-34 tanks, which left a lasting impression upon the Allied officers. The T-34 tank was the most famous tank of World War II, and it equipped the Soviet tank armies that drove the Germans from Stalingrad to Berlin.
markable milestone, he helped take Caltech Cable Vision public in the 1980s, creating opportunities and happiness for many.
In addition to owning a chain of nursing homes and a racquet club, Lenny later brought his entrepreneurial talents to Ocean City, Maryland, where he operated the Ocean Club, the Clarion Resort Fontainebleau, Marigot Beach Suites, and the Gateway Hotel - ventures that left an enduring mark on the community.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Lenny was celebrated for his love of life. He relished a fine steak, a special bottle of wine, and the company of friends old and new. His warmth and charisma made him unforgettable to all who met him.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Kari Berger; his children, David Berger, Jackie Berger, and Kelly Forsberg; his stepdaughters, Shannon Rosa and husband, Charles Rosa, and Karlie Southcomb, and his grandchildren, Maddie Simons, Ben Forsberg, Jack Forsberg, and Bella Rosa.
He will be remembered by his family as a generous and loving husband, father, stepfather, and grandfather. His legacy lives on not only in the businesses he built and his philanthropy, but in the lives he touched with his generosity, humor, and spirit.
Lenny Berger’s extraordinary journey leaves behind a family and community deeply proud of the life he lived, and grateful for the example he set.
Funeral services were held on Sept. 3 at Temple Bat Yam in Berlin.
In lieu of flowers, donations may
What surprised everyone the most were the Soviets’ 52 new powerful heavy JS-III tanks and self-propelled ISU vehicles with their 122mm and 152mm caliber guns. As they drove on the parade route, the earth was literally shaking underneath them. These monstrous vehicles also reminded the watching Berliners of the last days of the war, when Soviet assault groups armed with these vehicles demolished almost every building in Berlin.
In contrast, in 1941, the German Army paraded a captured Soviet KV2 heavy tank, armed with a six-inch caliber gun, in Berlin. The purpose was to show the Berliners, what the Wehrmacht called “cool trophies.”
But the effect was the opposite. Berliners, with horror, watched the steel monster and thought the Soviets, with such equipment, are not going to be easily defeated.
They were not mistaken! Berlin was stormed almost four years later by the descendants of the KV Tank, the Joseph Stalin-2 ( IS-2) tank, and ISU heavy assault guns.
Many Russian historians call this event, “The Forgotten Parade,” since it’s hardly mentioned in the West, probably marked the end of the coalition between the great powers, and marked the beginning of the Cold War.
There was one last joint Victory Parade in Berlin, on May 8, 1946, which began in front of the Brandenburg Gate, to inaugarate the Soviet War Memorial at Tiergarten.
Next week: Malmedy Trials
Sadly, Dr. Ghaleb passed away before publication of this article.
be made in Lenny’s memory to the TidalHealth Foundation, designated for Graduate Medical Education, 100 E. Carroll St., Salisbury, MD 21801, or online at tidalhealth.org/donate (https://tidalhealth.org/donate?utm _source=chatgpt.com).
GLORIA MAE WAINRIGHT Willards
Gloria Mae Wainright of Willards passed away Aug. 26, 2025, at the age of 93.
Gloria was born in Powellville and was the daughter of the late Arthur W. and Flora E. Davis.
Gloria graduated valedictorian of the 1950 graduating class of Pittsville High School and continued her education by attending Salisbury Institute for Business in 1951.
She started at The Farmers Bank of Willards on July 13, 1952 as a teller and advancing through the years to as-
sistant cashier, assistant vice president, vice president, and finally retiring in 2001 as a director. She was elected as a member of the Board of Directors of Farmers Bank of Willards in 2000. She participated in the Farmers Bank of Willards Bowling League until adopting son, Wayne, in 1970.
Gloria was a member of New Hope United Methodist Church from the age of 4 until becoming a member of the Eden United Methodist Church in Willards. Gloria was a singer with the Eden Church Trio with Dottie Gurley and Mattie Lee Hildreth. They sang at local minstrel shows and church homecomings. They once performed at the Lions International Conference in At-
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Leonard Berger
G. Wainwright
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lantic City, NJ.
She also played piano in the Willards Dixieland Band with Aubrey Davis, Jim Hildreth, Harry Wilkins and Eschol Adkins, performing for church and community functions and other local gigs. Gloria played the piano for many local weddings in the 1960s and 1970s.
Gloria was married to William (Whitey) F. Gordy on Sept. 14, 1951.
Gloria was a 35-year active member of the Willards Volunteer Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary and held various positions as treasurer and president in the Ladies Auxiliary. She was the assistant secretary-treasurer in 1983 for the Wicomico County Fireman’s Association.
She was active in the Pittsville Band Boosters in early ’80s when Wayne was in Middle School.
Gloria was in the Willards Lioness Club from the time it was chartered until it folded. She continued to work functions and bingo as member’s wife (Whitey and Tommy). She was awarded the Lions Club “Good Neighbor Award” on Nov. 16, 1988 for Outstanding Community Service.
She was a member of the Willards Homemaker’s Club that was formed in 1952. Gloria was a member of the Wicomico County Recreation Commission from 1977-1981.
Gloria married Joshua Thomas (Tommy) Wainright on April 4, 1987. Tommy was her closest friend and showed her great respect and love from day one. They enjoyed NASCAR races, taking day trips together and attending antique car shows with the Grand National, winning many awards.
Two of her favorite quotes: “How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and strong. Because someday in
your life you will have been all of these.” (George Washington Carver) and “Treat others as you would want to be treated” has been Gloria’s guiding principle.
She is survived by her step-children Cynthia Kimball and late husband, Steven, of Bear, Delaware, Linda Stamp of Salisbury; Joshua T. Wainright II of Hockessin, Delaware, and Nancy Ennis and husband, Chuck, of Parsonsburg; grandchildren William White and wife, Maddie, Leigh Smith and wife, Jen, Brittney Parsons and husband, Joey, Katya Wainright, Anton Wainright and wife, Alicia, Alyessa Ryan and husband, Corey, Alex Kimball and wife, Hillary, Kyra Kimball Wilhelm and husband, Alex; “Honorary” granddaughter Danielle Davis Eichhorn (Greg); Great-grandchildren Lennex White, Gabriel White, Joel White, Reid White, Ashley Tyler, Evan Tyler, Skyler Parsons, Conner Parsons, Emma Kimball, Jack Kimball, Bailey Wilhelm, Ada Wilhelm, Nikolaé (Niko) Ryan, Olive Hilton and “Honorary” great-grandchildren Ethen Eichhorn and Sadie Eichhorn.
She was preceded in death by her first husband, William (Whitey) F. Gordy in July 1981, second husband, Tommy Wainright in January 2018, her son, Wayne Davis Gordy, in June 1990 and step-grandson, Kolya Nikolaé Wainright in 2008, and step-siblings Virginia Davis Miller, John Everett Davis, and Vaughn Hall Davis. Thank you to all her caregivers, namely Tammy, Jennie, Betty, Danielle, Margaret, Ginger, Michelle, Courtney, Joyce, Ann, Bonnie, and Pat.
A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025 at Bishop-Hastings Funeral Home, 19 South Main Street in Selbyville with a viewing from 10-11 a.m. Services will be conducted by Allen “Buck” Burton. Interment will be in Riverside Cemetery in Libertytown.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be
made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital (www.stjude.org or 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, Tenn. 38105), New Hope United Methodist Church 7348 New Hope Rd, Willards, Md. 21874, or Eden United Methodist Church, 7283 Main St, Willards, Md, 21874.
Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com.
ARLENE O. LINN
Ocean City
Arlene O. Linn, age 90, of Ocean City died Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025 at home. She was born in Philadelphia and was the daughter of the late Anthony Olive and Rose (Branca) Olive.
48, Berlin, MD 21811 or Ocean City Paramedic Foundation Inc., P.O. Box 3099, Ocean City, MD 21842 or the Ocean City Police Department Morale Committee, 6501 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, MD 21842.
Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com
HARVEY FRANKLIN ROTH Ocean Pines
Harvey Franklin Roth, age 90, a beloved husband, father, and Opa, passed away on Aug. 22, 2025 in Ocean Pines.
Arlene was a real estate broker and owned and operated Arlene Linn Real Estate. She was a member of AARP chapter 1917 in Ocean City, Certified Residential Specialists, Maryland Real Estate Commission Board and Coastal Association of Realtors.
Arlene received multiple awards during her esteemed career, including Top Producer Diamond Award, Hall of Fame Award and many 100% Club awards, all with ReMax International. She was also presented with the Key to the City from Ocean City Mayor Harry Kelly.
Her deepest passion next to her family was making people happy. With impeccable work ethics and always a touch of class, she forever proved her worthiness of the respect and admiration she received from her peers and friends alike.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Paul Linn.
Services will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to Worcester County Humane Society, P.O. Box
The son of Annabelle Roth, Harvey was born in New York City in 1934. He graduated from Stuyvesant Charter School before enlisting in the Navy where he served for eight years. He served on the USS Whitehall II and learned electrical and communications skills that led to a career working with early computer systems and complex communications equipment.
Harvey went on to work at Mitre Corporation and Westinghouse Electric, enabling him to continue to learn and travel the world working in Colorado, Iran, Morocco, and Germany.
The early computers Harvey worked with occupied an entire room. Later in life, Harvey started up CompassTech, a computer consulting firm to help new users set up their first-time personal computers for home as well as small businesses. Harvey was a lifelong learner who also enjoyed teaching others. He established early computer systems in local libraries and taught computer classes at Wor-Wic community college.
A Yankees fan, a lover of military history, and an avid storyteller, Harvey was also known to never miss a chicken dance at weddings and was quick to give an eloquent, thoughtful toast. Harvey hiked on Volksmarches throughout Germany, loved to sail and was a fierce competitor in Jeopardy.
In 1961, Harvey married the love of his life, Sheila Judith Barrett, whom he met on Long Island while deployed there with the Navy. He would often say that when he first saw Sheila from across the room, he knew she was the one he would marry. Harvey and Sheila were married for 64 years until Sheila’s passing on June 13, 2025.
Harvey is survived by his daughter Linda Roth, son Thomas Roth (wife Barbara), daughter Victoria McKelvey (husband Craig), and seven grandchildren (Kate, Barrett, Kori, Taylor Jeann, Aidan, Keath and Colin).
Services will be held at Temple Bat Yam, 11036 Worcester Hwy, Berlin, Md. 21811, Sunday Sept. 7 at 1:30 p.m. Refreshments to be served following service in the Temple.
Harvey Roth
Arlene O. Linn
Sports & Recreation
Decatur looking to reload, while moving up to Class 3A
By Bruce C. Walls
Contributing Writer
(Sept. 5, 2025) The Stephen Decatur football team is returning to the field this week after winning a pair of state championships. This year the squad is moving to the Class 3A in Maryland from 2A due to school enrollment growing.
Decatur’s regular season gets un-
derway next Friday, Sept. 12, at home against Wi-Hi. Last week the coaches got a look at their team with a scrimmage against Forest Park High School.
During the scrimmage, the coaches are permitted on the field to work with their players and they only use half of the field, so no score is kept. It is all about the fundamentals and learning.
A Seahawk defender chases down a Forest Park tailback in last week’s
“You learn you can’t do things. You got to take focus on the little things,” said Head Coach Jake Coleman. “I feel like defensively we made definite strides and offensively we’re going to continue to work. I thought both sides of the ball did some good things. We just have to focus on the little things to be good. That’ s a good team we scrimmaged against and I’m excited about the season. We’re going to try to get better every day.”
This year’s team boasts 28 seniors. In the meantime, senior Johnny
Hobgood, the designated quarterback and Sacred Heart University commit, sees nothing but victories ahead.
“I think we will be undefeated. We’ve got to go one game at a time now,” Hogbood said. “Everyone’s working really hard obviously, a new group, but everyone is filing in the holes and working out hard every single day and just doing their part, getting better every single day. One game at a time though. We’ve lost a lot of people but a lot of people are filling in new roles and making new legacies.”
Seahawks to begin season at home Friday
By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer
(Sept. 5, 2025) The Lady Seahawks of Stephen Decatur scrimmaged at home last Wednesday and lost to North Dorchester Eagles in a best three out of five sets.
The Eagles took set one 25-22 and set two 29-27. Then the Seahawks
came out of the cage with set three at 25-23 and set four 25-15 only to lose 156 in set five. Last year Stephen Decatur finished the season 8-7. This year they are on pace to win the Regionals. Stephen Decatur was awesome at the net. Junior Chloe Jones didn’t let much by her and scored with her spikes.
“This is my third school season playing,” Jones said. “I have only played two travel seasons. I was playing since freshman year. I just like to track the ball and try. I always listen to my coaches. They always tell me good things and good tips.”
The team’s coaching staff has said the Seahawks’ primary goal this year is
to “not let our mistakes define us as a team.” In the scrimmage, the team did overcome many mistakes, but even though it didn’t come out on top, the squad did play at a high level.
The first game of the year will be against Sussex Central a nonconference game on Friday, Sept. 5 at 5 p.m. at the Stephen Decatur High School gym.
PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
Seahawk Chole Jones stops the Eagles at the net during the game on Aug. 27.
PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
Seahawk Lila Gunther makes the spike in the five-set loss to North Dorchester.
PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
Coach Jake Coleman observed from an on-field perspective his new offense during the scrimmage against Forest Park.
PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
scrimmage.
Field hockey team looks to build on last season’s run
By Bruce C. Walls
Contributing Writer
(Sept. 5, 2025) Last year was a history-making season for the Stephen Decatur varsity field hockey team.
After a loss last October to Queen Anne’s High School left it on the short end of the Bayside Championship last fall, the Seahawks turned around and won the 2A East Region II semifinal in Berlin. The 4-0 victory was the Seahawks’ eighth shutout of the 2024 season.
This year the team takes the field with seven seniors, 10 juniors, two sophomores and one freshman. This year’s first string returners are Bailey Griffin, Jill Burton, Nicole Mays and Kamryn Hitchens.
The Seahawks took the field last Thursday for a scrimmage against the Indians of Indian River High School at the Sussex County’s school’s home field.
The first score was made by the Seahawks in the second period with 7:52 left to go. The Indians then countered with one for a tie with 7:36 to go.
At the end of the third period, the score was tied again at 2-2. But with 2:40 left in the fourth period, the Seahawks scored again for the 3-2 win.
Head Coach Katie Griffin said, “We learned that we’re going to have to figure out how to play on grass. It’s just a little slower than we are used to — we have been playing on our own turf at Stephen Decatur this entire pre-season. We need to work on our small passes we have to work on our circle. I feel we outplayed them but, they had more time in their circle.”
On Monday Sept. 8, the Seahawks have an away game with Parkside High School at 4 p.m.
PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
Senior Jill Burton takes control of the ball and moves towards the cage during last week’s win over Indian River.
PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
This year’s Stephen Decatur varsity field hockey team is pictured after a recent away scrimmage at Indian River.
FISH IN OC WITH SCOTT LENOX
Captain Jason Mumford of Lucky Break put this group, above left, on 11 keeper sheepshead and a keeper tautog. Above right, the crew of the private boat Instigator had an awesome overnight trip that yielded three yellowfin tuna, three longfin tuna and a pile of gaffer mahi.
PHOTOS COURTESY FISH IN OC
PHOTOS COURTESY FISH IN OC
Amarilis won the fish pool on the Morning Star with Captain Monty Hawkins with this huge sea bass, above left. Mike Johnston and his crew, above middle, had a great day of ocean flounder fishing putting several fish over 20” in the fish box. Above right, this big sheepshead was caught aboard the Local Hooker Too with Captain Will Poole.
Below left, this gentleman caught a smooth puffer fish while fishing on board the Miss Kathleen out of Bahia Marina. Below middle, these lucky anglers caught flounder up to 24” on board Saltwater Adventures with Captain Tony Battista. Below right, young Tessa Bohlen caught her first ever white marlin while fishing with her uncle Shawn and dad Jason aboard the JEB.
BREAST GULF SHRIMP • AK ved Sizzling on a Hot Skillet Ser amelizedCar
Ribs: ½ or Whole Rack omato & Cheese $ To Lettuce, T , CHICKEN RIMPP, N & SHRIMP
