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OC Today-Dispatch SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
STUBBORNLY LOCAL, EQUALLY INDEPENDENT
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ICE takes three after targeting car on 41st St. Federal agents were seeking Guatemalan woman who had enterered illegally, and found two more undocumented persons in car with her. — PAGE 22
City weighs in on Amazon’s power feed facility plan City Manager Terry McGean says an existing cable landing lease must be amended if the company seeks to build at the WOC airport. — PAGE 3
SIDEKICK
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Sidecar Dog Riley waits for his dad and driver, Jim Shelanick of Bath, Pennsylvania, outside the Royal Farms store in West Ocean City Wednesday morning. The goldendoodle and his master travel to events throughout the region and document their trips at https://sidecardogriley.org. See page 33 for more on the OC Rock and Ride event.
Plak That donating $66K to Children’s House PAGE 14
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OC Today-Dispatch
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
Lease revision required for Amazon’s power feed facility work together, and one proposal – from Globalinx – was submitted to the city. Through that partnership, and subsequent lease agreement, the city will receive $800,000 for the first By Bethany Hooper four cables that are installed, and anAssociate Editor (Sept. 11, 2026) Ocean City Man- other $200,000 per cable for any adager Terry McGean says the local gov- ditional cables that are installed. So ernment officials are aware of a far, the city has received over proposed zoning amendment that $228,000 from Globalinx, just for excould pave the way for Amazon’s con- ecuting the agreement. Months later, Globalinx put forstruction of an unmanned, “power feed equipment facility” at the munic- ward plans to develop a 24,000ipal airport. square-foot cable landing station on But until an existing lease with the Route 611, one that would serve Amacity is amended, he said, the only de- zon’s Fastnet transatlantic cable. As velopment authorized at the airport is proposed, the company would run cable from the airport to the landing a cable landing. Power feed equipment, which is station, where it would connect with usually contained in a cable landing land-based telecommunications networks. station, sends high But with an onvoltage electricity to going county moraa subsea lineup of ‘Amazon has no intention torium on cable booster stations to build a CLS or a data landing station that amplify the sigcenter in Worcester County.’ (CLS) and data cennals being transmitter projects, Amated. Amazon spokesperson “Currently the zon announced last week it was seeking lease that Globalinx has for the airport only allows for un- a separate path forward. “Amazon has no intention to build derground cable and a manhole. Therefore, the lease would have to be a CLS or a data center in Worcester amended to allow for an above- County,” a company spokesperson ground structure,” he said in an email told OC Today-Dispatch via email. In a proposal separate from Globlast week. “Ocean City is aware that a zoning amendment is under consid- alinx, Amazon Web Services is seekeration but to date there have not ing to build a power feed equipment been any requests made to amend the facility, no larger than 700 square feet, on airport property. The buildlease.” Last week, Amazon Web Services ing, the company reports, would supsaid it was taking a new approach for ply electricity to the cable and pass its the transatlantic cables landing in optical signal farther inland. Ocean City – skip the cable landing “If the PFE building is approved, station currently proposed for Route the additional equipment that would 611 and pursue a power feed equip- otherwise have been housed in a ment facility directly on airport prop- nearby cable landing station will be erty. To allow the construction, the placed in an existing AWS facility in company’s legal counsel has submit- the greater Washington region,” the ted a proposed code amendment to spokesperson said. The company last month also subWorcester County. “If the zoning amendment passes mitted a proposed code amendment and we receive a request to amend the to Worcester County, one that would lease, assuming the council wishes to allow such a structure on the airport consider that request, it would be while providing a workaround to the placed on an agenda for consideration moratorium. The amendment would at that time,” McGean said. “Until only apply to the commercial airport that occurs, we have no position.” district and permit a one-story power Last fall, the Ocean City Council feed equipment building as large as approved a 25-year lease agreement 1,200 square feet. When reached for comment last with Globalinx to land transatlantic fiberoptic cable at the Ocean City Mu- week, McGean said if the zoning nicipal Airport. The cable’s eastern amendment passes, and the council terminus would be in County Cork, agrees to any lease amendment that is Ireland. put forward, Amazon Web Services While the city was initially ap- would still need to acquire all the norproached by both Globalinx and mal county approvals – site plan, Amazon about the possibility of land- stormwater, etc. – as well as the blessing cable on Ocean City property, the ing of the Federal Aviation Administwo companies ultimately decided to tration.
Company proposes smaller, unmanned building over previous cable landing plan
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OC Today-Dispatch
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
Voters to decide state redistricting rules in November Court orders election staff to replace ballot language
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By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Sept. 11, 2026) The battle over Maryland’s redistricting rules has moved out of the courtroom and into the hands of voters after the state’s highest court cleared Question 3 for the Nov. 3 general election ballot. Following the ruling, local lawmakers – including state Sen. Mary Beth Carozza (R-38), who sued to block the measure – are urging constituents to defeat the constitutional amendment. If passed by voters on Election Day, it would prevent Maryland courts from applying state constitutional standards to congressional district boundaries. “To think I’d be a plaintiff in the redistricting lawsuit as the only recourse to protect the constitutional rights of my constituents is a very serious matter,” Carozza (R-38, Worcester) told OC Today-Dispatch this week. Maryland is part of a national redistricting fight that has unfolded over the past year, with both parties seeking to redraw congressional maps in their favor before the next census. Seven of Maryland’s eight seats in the U.S. House of Representatives are held by Democrats, leaving First District Congressman Andy Harris as the delegation’s lone Republican. Carozza and fellow Eastern Shore Republicans argue that if Question 3 passes, Annapolis mapmakers could divide the First District across the Chesapeake Bay and dilute the Shore’s conservative voice by linking its rural counties to metropolitan Baltimore suburbs. Opponents call that an open door to gerrymandering – the practice of drawing voting districts to give one political party an advantage in elecSee OPPONENTS Page 10
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SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
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SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
Opponents fight ballot question Continued from Page 6 tions, a tactic nearly as old as the nation itself. Carozza rejects the argument that Republican redistricting efforts elsewhere justify Maryland changing its own rules. “The average person also understands that two wrongs don’t make a right, whether it’s in Maryland or in Texas,” she said. “If it’s wrong, it’s wrong. We have an obligation to fight for the voice and representation of our constituents.” In its Sept. 3 order, the state Supreme Court considered two separate lawsuits brought by Republican voters and lawmakers challenging Question 3. The plaintiffs challenged lawmakers’ decision to bypass ballot deadlines and a public-comment process enacted earlier this year through Senate Bill 29, according to Carozza. Other plaintiffs included Eastern Shore Republicans Sen. Johnny Mautz and Del. Chris Adams. Although the Supreme Court ruled that the timing problems were not enough to remove Question 3 from the ballot, the challengers won a partial victory. The justices agreed that the legislature’s original ballot description was “misleading” and violated constitutional due process. The description said the amendment would require congressional maps to follow federal law, but federal law applies regardless of Question 3, and the amendment does not establish any new federal standards. The court did not change the amendment itself. Instead of throwing out the referendum, it ordered election officials to replace the ballot description. The new wording tells voters that Maryland’s existing standards would apply only to General Assembly districts and that the Maryland Constitution would provide no standards for drawing congressional maps. States typically redraw congressional districts every 10 years after the national census. In Maryland, however, the state Constitution does not spell out how those districts must be drawn, according to a General Assembly analysis. But in 2022, an Anne Arundel County judge ruled that standards governing legislative districts also apply to congressional maps. Under those standards, districts must be
compact and respect natural boundaries, such as the Chesapeake Bay, and political boundaries, like county lines. The judge struck down a map approved by the General Assembly as an “extreme partisan gerrymander.” A replacement map subsequently maintained an Eastern Shore-based First Congressional District represented by Republican Andy Harris. Democratic lawmakers proposed Question 3 during a three-day General Assembly special session in August. The amendment, introduced as House Bill 2100, passed the House 96-38 and the Senate 32-13. Question 3 would reverse that interpretation by adding language to the constitution declaring that “nothing in the Maryland Constitution provides applicable criteria for the boundaries of a congressional districting plan.” In dissent, Justice Steven Gould argued that the replacement description remains misleading because it does not tell voters that Maryland’s Declaration of Rights – part of the Maryland Constitution and similar to the federal Bill of Rights – could no longer be used to challenge congressional maps. Gould wrote that voters would not understand that “a vote for Question 3 is a vote to eliminate rights he or she currently enjoys.” Statewide Democratic leaders immediately celebrated the court’s 5-2 ruling. In a joint statement, House Speaker Joseline Peña-Melnyk and Senate President Bill Ferguson argued the amendment would give Maryland the legal tools to respond to mid-decade gerrymandering in Republican-led states. Both are Democrats. Gov. Wes Moore, a Democrat, called the ruling a massive victory, saying “the final decision on how we draw our maps belongs in the hands of Marylanders, not politicians.” Moore portrayed the amendment as Maryland’s response to Republican-led states that have redrawn congressional districts between censuses to gain seats in the U.S. House. “We refuse to sit on our hands while Republicans engage in political redlining that guts decades of progress,” Moore said. “Today’s decision ensures Maryland will not be caught flat-footed against these national threats.”
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SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
Beach restoration at the top of OC’s autumn to-do list Boardwalk expansion, golf course work also planned By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Sept. 11, 2026) With the summer tourist season now concluded, the Town of Ocean City has set its sights on a number of large capital projects to take place this fall. At the top of the list is a longawaited beach replenishment project, which is currently behind its typical four-year cycle. City Manager Terry McGean said this week the only thing city leaders are certain of is that the project will take place this offseason. “Until the Corp of Engineers holds the project kick-off meeting with the
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contractor, we won't have a more definitive schedule,” he said. “The kickoff meeting has not yet been scheduled.” In 1994, the state of Maryland, Worcester County, and the Town of Ocean City entered into a 50-year agreement with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to perform periodic beach replenishment as needed. Typically, Ocean City’s beaches are replenished on a four-year cycle, although the most recent replenishment project took place in the fall and winter of 2021. The agreement also outlines the funding commitments of each party, with the federal Army Corps paying 53% of the cost, Maryland paying 23.5% of the cost, and both Worcester County and Ocean City each paying 11.75% of the cost. At the city level, $500,000 has been set aside annually for beach renourishment. Those yearly contributions – alongside those from
Worcester County and the state – are then placed into a shared beach replenishment fund, which earns interest and accumulates to fund future beach renourishment projects. This year, however, Ocean City and its counterparts were forced to add millions more to the fund after officials learned the upcoming beach replenishment project would be more expensive. “To give you an idea, the last time we did this project in 2021 the cost was $16 million,” McGean told the City Council in a meeting last month. “We just opened bids with the [Army Corps of Engineers] and actually the bids were below the estimate, but the total for the project, for about the same volume of sand as we did in 2021, is $28 million. So that gives you an idea of how much cost has increased over really just the last five years. Due to that, our cost share, the local cost share, does exceed what’s in the balance of the maintenance fund.”
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Town plans off-season projects A monthly report from the city’s engineering department shows that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is expected to issue a “Notice to Proceed” in mid-September, with construction activity likely to begin in mid- to late-October or early November. Great Lakes Dredge & Dock will lead the project, which entails pumping sand from shoals several miles offshore onto the beach. The sand transferred from the ocean floor to the beach also must match the sand on the beach. Municipal officials have called the beach replenishment project “the most important project we do in Ocean City,” as it has prevented an estimated $927 million in storm damage since the 1990s. The Army Corps reports the upcoming project will conclude by next Memorial Day. As beach replenishment work takes place off the coast, city leaders will begin making improvements to another Ocean City landmark – the Boardwalk. Assuming bids come in within budget, a project to expand the Boardwalk’s south end could start by Dec. 1. “It is under design at this time,” Public Works Director Hal Adkins said in an email this week. “We hope to bid it by late October.” In 2023, the Maryland Department of General Services awarded the Town of Ocean City $600,000 in grant funding to add an elevator to the east side of the Ocean City LifeSaving Station Museum. Initially, the plan was to provide access to the museum’s second floor for those unable to use its steps. However, when project bids came back in the summer of 2024, officials were shocked to see bids ranging from $1.22 million to $1.47 million. Going back to the drawing board, officials ultimately developed another plan for increasing accessibility. In March, the Ocean City Council
gave its blessing to proceed with a Boardwalk expansion project. As proposed, the city will use the $457,436 left in grant funding to extend the Boardwalk to the east of the museum. The revised plan also includes railings and landscaping, an ADA-compliant interpretive kiosk inside the museum, and the installation of an archway sign, which will be funded using leftover money from the Boardwalk signage project. If the project proceeds as planned, Adkins said the goal is to wrap up construction by April 1. “Being this is simply a ‘wood’ project I am not overly concerned about any long lead times impacting the schedule on ordering of supplies,” he said. “More so, I have to work around my ‘Special Events Window’ of time available to me.” The Town of Ocean City will also proceed with a flood remediation project at Eagles Landing Golf Course. Beginning in November, construction work will affect play at four holes (five, seven, 17 and 18). “Modified play at the course will continue throughout the project,” Deputy City Manager JR Harmon said this week. Last year, the City Council selected a contractor to complete a flood remediation project at the golf course, which has recorded an uptick in tidal flooding events in recent years. In 2025, for example, four such occurrences covered the grass at certain holes, making play impossible. Officials say the project will attempt to mitigate some of those flooding issues. The work will include raising one hole, while berming and draining others. Harmon said a pre-construction meeting was held last Friday, and that project mobilization has been scheduled for the last week of October. The targeted completion date is April 15, he added.
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SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
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By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Sept. 11, 2026) Believe in Tomorrow Children’s House by the Sea in Ocean City will receive a financial boost after a local sign auction raised more than $66,000 in sponsorships for the nonprofit. The money was collected through an online auction organized by Plak That owner Wyatt Harrison. Through his company’s fundraising effort, $66,951 will be used to sponsor upgrades to the local respite house for critically ill children and their families. “This amount of money is really going to help them make the experience better for the families that are being hosted at the house,” Harrison said in an interview Wednesday. Earlier this year, the Town of Ocean City hired Harrison’s company to replace municipal signs from the inlet all the way to 146th Street. The project was part of the city’s rebranding initiative involving welcome signs, wayfinding and regulatory placards, and more. While the retired signs were destined for the recycling bin, Harrison said he quickly discovered that several community members were interested in purchasing some of the 200-plus signs in his possession. To
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Seacrets owner Leighton Moore, right, surprised Malibu’s Surf Shop owner Lee Gerachis with one of the auctioned Boardwalk signs.
make it fair, he came up with the idea for an online auction, with proceeds to benefit Believe in Tomorrow Children’s House by the Sea. On July 17, Plak That launched its
auction website, featuring street, dune crossing, rip current, regulatory and bicycle signs. In the weeks that followed, many of the retired signs See FUNDS Page 18
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‘Pony Protectors’ hold rally, seek speed limit reduction
BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Organizer Jodi Sylvester, left, waves at passing cars during a rally along the Verrazano Bridge last Friday. She is joined by other rally participants, holding signs urging motorists to slow down.
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By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Sept. 11, 2026) An RV driver passing a small rally near Assateague Island raised both middle fingers toward the women holding signs asking motorists to slow down. Rally organizer Jodi Sylvester was unfazed. “If you’re not pissing somebody off,” she said, “you’re not pushing hard enough.” A music teacher from central Massachusetts, Sylvester has become a leading voice in an online movement seeking greater protections for Assateague’s wild ponies from motorists. Sylvester and her online supporters are demanding a uniform 15 mph speed limit at Assateague Island National Seashore following three vehicle strikes this summer that killed two horses and injured another. A 12-year-old mare named Susi Solé was killed Aug. 13, less than two weeks after a stallion called Dune Dancer Jolt died Aug. 1. A filly called Miracle survived after being struck by a vehicle in July. Park officials said both horses were struck and killed in daylight on Bayberry Drive, the park’s main road. The National Park Service has not released information about the drivers or the circumstances of either collision. Assateague’s most devoted horse followers know the animals individually. They recognize their markings, track their family bands and offspring, and circulate photographs and videos documenting their movements around the island. To her admirers, Susi was not simply another member of Assateague’s herd. Susi left behind a colt born April 25. Park officials determined he was too young to survive without his mother and transferred him to the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company’s herd in Virginia. Sylvester was already the kind of passionate park visitor who would remind people to keep their distance and not feed or touch the horses. Susi’s death turned that quiet advocacy into something more public. Her call to action through a Facebook group called Assateague Pony Protectors drew several women to the Verrazano Bridge by midday Sept. 4. They arrived with signs in hand as late-summer biting flies swarmed exposed arms and ankles. Sylvester and a companion drove overnight from Massachusetts with a camper in tow, arriving at the island around 7:30 a.m. Sylvester paid out of pocket for signs, stickers, and buttons she shared with supporters. She remembered Susi as an ex-
ceptionally protective mother whose offspring remained together in a close family band. “Susi took care of her family. She took care of her offspring,” Sylvester said. Rally attendee Angie Tamburo of West Ocean City called Susi “the queen of the island, taken too soon.” Tamburo said motorists should come to Assateague to appreciate the surroundings, not rush through them. “It’s not a speedway,” she said. “It’s here to enjoy the beach, the nature.” Tamburo supports an island-wide 15 mph limit. Sylvester is also advocating for speed cushions, which she says would force motorists to slow down without impeding emergency vehicles. She said lowering the posted limit would be the quickest step, but would not stop people determined to disregard it. Linda Smigen, a New Jersey resident who also has a home in Millsboro, Delaware, questioned whether lowering the speed limit would affect motorists already inclined to disregard it. “People that don’t want to follow rules are not going to follow the rules,” she said at the rally. Smigen suggested installing rumble strips along Bayberry Drive or returning the paved road to sand and shell – anything that would physically discourage motorists from speeding. Assateague Island National Seashore Superintendent Hugh Hawthorne said in an email that park managers are considering some of those ideas, but previous conversations with highway and safety professionals indicate some may be inadvisable or counterproductive. Current speed limits are 25 or 15 mph, depending on location, and 10 mph in parking lots. Hawthorne said any changes would be made in consultation with law enforcement and emergency-management officials and based on engineering and safety principles. Hawthorne also noted that Assateague’s speed limits are already considerably lower than those at comparable national parks. The Sept. 4 rally lasted only about a half hour, but it was not the group’s only demonstration. Supporters returned Sept. 5 and Sept. 7, according to photographs and posts shared online. Smigen said they also plan to hold a Sept. 26 lantern vigil for the horses killed this summer and another safety rally Oct. 11. “Just because we’re on social media doesn’t mean we’re not productive,” she said.
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Funds raised for respite program Continued from Page 14 were auctioned off to the highest bidder, while other signs – those with several duplicates – were sold for a fixed price. Harrison said the 12th Street Boardwalk sign received the highest bid, at $3,061. Most other signs, he said, went for $200 to $300. “We sold all 220 signs,” he added. Harrison said the auction attracted bids from those near and far, with people from 30 different states buying a piece of Ocean City history. During the live auction, more than 7,100 bids were placed, with nearly 3,000 occurring on the final day, and more than 1,300 occurring in the final hour. “We planned for volume, and we got crushed. It broke our system …,” he said. “I want to apologize. We knew it was going to be popular. And even though we planned for it, it still broke our tech infrastructure.” Despite the technical glitch in the last hours of the auction, Harrison said he was happy with how it turned out. While he initially committed $10,000 to Believe in Tomorrow, his company was ultimately able to provide six times that amount. That money, he added, will sponsor house improvements, HVAC upgrades and other necessary updates. “The money is going to be used for upgrades at the Children’s House, which is awesome because that’s what I wanted from the beginning,” he said. Harrison thanked his team at Plak That, as well as community members, for making the online auction a success. He said he has already seen a few signs hanging from residences in town. “I’m really happy that me and my team could pull this off and give a second life to these signs …,” he said. “There are so many people who are really excited they had the opportunity to get one of these, because that opportunity doesn’t usually come around. This was a unique sequence of events that led us to the place where we could offer them and let them live on.” Throughout the auction, Harrison said he also heard from participants who had personal connections to the signs. He shared stories of engagements, beach weddings, and summers spent growing up on a certain street. “It was like a physical representation of years of memories …,” he said of the signs. “They mean so many different things to so many different people, and it was cool to pull it off.” Harrison said Plak That will hold a check presentation with Believe in Tomorrow in the coming days. In the meantime, he is issuing a public service announcement. “If you haven’t picked up your signs, please get them,” he said.
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Md. funds Worcester conservation easement State board OK’s funding to preserve county farmland, hold development rights By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Sept. 11, 2026) Maryland will spend more than $750,000 to permanently preserve 59 acres of northern Worcester County farmland, adding to more than 13,700 acres protected through the Rural Legacy Program countywide. The state’s Board of Public Works on Sept. 2 approved the purchase of a conservation easement for the Mumford and Lynch property in the Bishopville-Showell Rural Legacy Area. The parcel had been subdivided into five lots that would have been
ready for sale. Now, the lots will be consolidated into one property that can never again be subdivided for housing. The owners will keep the land while Worcester County will hold its development rights permanently, according to county Planning Manager Katherine Munson. This is the second property preserved since Maryland created the Bishopville-Showell Rural Legacy Area in 2024. The county established the new area after landowner interest in the older Coastal Bays program dried up and shifted its focus to northern Worcester farms facing increasing development pressure. The state valued the easement at $707,000, or nearly $12,000 per acre. Another $44,259 will cover administrative, incidental and longterm compliance costs, bringing the
total state expenditure to $751,259. The money comes from an $800,000 Rural Legacy grant awarded to Worcester County in fiscal 2025 to launch the new Bishopville-Showell preservation area. The 11,753-acre preservation area carries a county goal of protecting 2,000 acres within its first decade. The first two easements cover a combined 85.4 acres. Maryland created the Rural Legacy Program nearly 30 years ago to discourage sprawl by paying landowners to permanently surrender their properties’ development rights. Owners retain the land and may continue farming or otherwise using it under the terms of the easement. The process can take up to two years and includes an appraisal, environ-
mental review, boundary survey, and title search. The Board of Public Works must approve each individual purchase before the county can settle with the owner. County officials then inspect the property every three years for compliance. The program has protected about 10,000 acres from development in the Coastal Bays Rural Legacy Area since 1999. “Right now, we just don’t have interest in those Coastal Bays Rural Legacy areas,” Munson said. “We are actively doing outreach to landowners in both areas.” Worcester County has about $500,000 left from earlier awards that had been earmarked for the Coastal Bays area. The state is allowing the county to spend that money on easements in either Coastal Bays or Bishopville-Showell. Transferred funding has already paid for the first Bishopville-Showell easement, a 26.4-acre farm on St. Martins Neck Road that was preserved in October 2025. Munson said northern Worcester farms are generally smaller and more expensive to preserve because they face greater residential development pressure. Farmland south of Snow Hill may cost between $2,000 and $4,000 per acre to protect, compared with nearly $12,000 per acre for the Mumford and Lynch property. “But north of Berlin is very different in terms of land values,” she said. Worcester County also has requested $700,000 for additional Bishopville-Showell easements and $5.1 million for properties in the Dividing Creek area during fiscal 2027. Munson said those applications are still awaiting recommendations before they can advance to the Board of Public Works. No other Bishopville-Showell properties are moving through the process, but Munson said the county is searching for another eligible property before its available funding expires. The state has not given Worcester a specific deadline to commit the money. “It’s a great opportunity to preserve your farm and be paid for it, and it’s a contribution in perpetuity to the landscape and future generations,” Munson said.
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SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
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ICE makes arrests, issues warning to public Three detained in Tuesday morning stop along Coastal Highway, 41st Street in OC By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Sept. 11, 2026) Federal immigration officers arrested three people during a targeted vehicle stop Tuesday morning in midtown Ocean City, with ICE saying all three were in the United States illegally. The arrests unfolded around 8:45 a.m. near southbound Coastal Highway and 41st Street, where this reporter witnessed several unmarked vehicles with flashing blue lights surrounding another vehicle in the leftturn lane. Traffic was forced around the vehicles as agents detained a woman wearing a white shirt and placed her inside one of them. Several agents wore tactical gear, including hats or helmets, and at least some wore vests marked “ERO,” an abbreviation for Enforcement and Removal Operations. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement later identified the woman as Telma Yolanda Lopez Cristobal, a Guatemalan national
who was the target of the operation. When asked for details about the ICE said she entered the United operation, the masked agent directed States illegally at an unknown date the reporter to contact a public inforand time. mation officer with ICE’s Washington “During the vehicle stop, ICE offi- Field Office before leaving in a black cers discovered two other illegal SUV driven by another agent. aliens in the car,” the agency said in a Dough Roller owner Kevin Gibbs written statement Tuesday to OC said the business had no information Today-Dispatch. about the operation other than that ICE identified the other two peo- an ICE vehicle entered its parking lot. ple arrested as Local law enPabla Parada forcement agencies Valdez, a Mexican said they had no in‘Being in detention is a choice. formation about the national, and Marvin Edilzar De Leon We encourage all illegal aliens operation. Matias, a Worcester to take control of their Guatemalan naCounty Sheriff Matt departure with the CBP tional. Crisafulli said his Home App.’ The agency did office had not been U.S. Immigration and not say why Lopez notified of any fedCustoms Enforcement Cristobal had been eral activity. Ocean targeted or whether City Police spokesany of the three had woman Ashley criminal convictions or outstanding Miller said she reviewed the departremoval orders. ment’s calls for service during the ICE said all three remained in its timeframe and found nothing related custody pending the outcome of re- to the incident. moval proceedings. ICE concluded its response to After the vehicles involved in the questions about the arrests with a stop began to disperse, one agent broader warning to people living in driving a white car parked beside this the country illegally. reporter in The Dough Roller restau“Being in detention is a choice,” rant parking lot. the agency said. “We encourage all il-
legal aliens to take control of their departure with the CBP Home App.” The agency said the federal government is offering $3,000 and a free flight to people who voluntarily leave the United States. “If not, you will be arrested and deported without a chance to return,” ICE said. The Department of Homeland Security also confirmed this week that ICE officers made another targeted arrest in Worcester County last month. The agency said in an email that Miguel Alexander Marte-Gonzalez, 34, a Dominican national, was taken into custody in Berlin after officers attempted to stop his vehicle during a targeted operation Aug. 20. Border Patrol agents apprehended Marte-Gonzalez in Texas on Dec. 29, 2023, after he entered the country illegally and released him the same day, DHS said. DHS alleged that Marte-Gonzalez accelerated, crossed a sidewalk and drove into a ditch before being arrested without further incident. The agency said an immigration judge issued him a final removal order June 3 after he failed to appear for a hearing.
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POLICE/COURTS
Cocaine, causing a scene A man’s aggressive actions, including refusing to allow a female motorist to leave a parking lot, resulted in police intervention and his arrest on Sunday. At around 8 p.m., a citizen alerted Ocean City Police to a situation where a man would not allow an elderly woman to leave the area of a 32nd Street hotel. Multiple individuals then shared their concerns with the responding officer after witnessing Julius Moye, 62, of Hazleton, Pa., being aggressive and shouting toward a woman who was trying to leave the hotel parking lot. Witnesses told police Moye was yelling and dancing and would not allow Moye to leave the parking lot. At one point, Moye was blocking the woman’s vehicle from moving and attempted to get into the car. The woman was eventually able to leave the scene, they said. Police reported they were then able to approach Moye, who appeared to be intoxicated and was causing a scene.
Police searched Moye and located a folded dollar bill containing cocaine. Moye said the officer planted the drugs. Police determined Moye was not a candidate for a criminal citation due to his level of intoxication and the likelihood he would repeat the disturbing behavior. Moye has been charged with possession of a controlled dangerous substance-not cannabis, intoxicated endangerment, causing an intoxicated public disturbance, disorderly conduct and failure to obey lawful orders.
Assaulting the ‘wrong guy’ Twin brothers from Maryland were arrested for allegedly jumping another man last weekend. On Sept. 7, around 3:48 a.m., Ocean City Police officers were dispatched to 58th Street and Coastal Highway for a report of one man being attacked by two others, later identified as Eugenio Borja, 26, and Virgilio Borja, 26, both of Beltsville. The victim told police he was jumped by two Hispanic males before
they fled the scene in a white sedan. The complainant had multiple injuries, including bruising and blood to his face, other abrasions, and said he was experiencing pain in his jaw and shoulder. The victim told police he was walking through a parking lot when the men got out of their vehicle and accused him of assaulting their friend. Though the victim denied any involvement, he said Virgilio Borja began punching him in the face with Eugenio Borja joining in soon after. When a third person in the vehicle began shouting, “This is the wrong guy, this is the wrong guy,” the men drove away, according to the statement of probable cause. Their white car was spotted driving on Coastal Highway on 40th Street with occupants matching the descriptions provided by the victim. The vehicle pulled into a retail
store’s parking lot before noticing police and quickly exited the lot, nearly striking the police vehicle. Police reported that when they approached the vehicle, they saw the men were covered with blood and scratches. Both men were argumentative and uncooperative, with Eugenio Borja screaming loud enough to exceed the town’s noise ordinance. Officers said they asked him four separate times to stop screaming instructions to his brother, Virgilio, who was suspected of drunk driving, but he refused to comply and was arrested. Eugenio Borja was charged with second-degree assault, obstructing and hindering, disturbing the peace and violating the noise ordinance. In addition to the second-degree assault, Virgilio Borja was charged with driving while under the influence of alcohol.
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OC commits to borrowing $18M for seven projects Water treatment plant top the list at $3.62 million By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Sept. 11, 2026) With the support of City Council members, the Town of Ocean City will go to the bond market this fall as it seeks to begin seven capital projects. On Tuesday, the council voted 5-0, with Councilman John Gehrig and Councilwoman Carol Proctor absent, to adopt the second reading of an ordinance that authorizes the city to issue and sell up to $18 million in general obligation bonds. That money, officials report, will be used to finance several improvement projects in the coming year. “This is for certain projects reviewed at the Aug. 11 work session … ,” City Solicitor Heather Stansbury said this week. During a work session last month, Finance Director Shawn Bunting presented the council with the list of projects to be funded through the bond sale. They include water treatment plant improvements, estimated at $3.62 million, convention center kitchen and concession renovations, estimated at $1.5 million, solid waste transfer station rehabilitation, estimated at $2.4 million, and land acquisition, estimated at $3 million. The project list also includes the second phase of an airport taxiway relocation, currently estimated at $530,000, the 61st Street Racquet Center redevelopment, estimated at $2.4 million, and the Baltimore Avenue redevelopment, estimated at $5 million. “That brings the new total estimated project costs at $17,255,000,” Bunting said at the time, “and current estimated cost of issuance is at $200,000, which will bring the total potential bonded debt to just under $17.5 million.” With the council’s vote this week, the city will now move to the bond market. Bunting said the seven projects brought the annual general fund debt service to roughly $920,000. That includes $300,000 a year for the water treatment plant, $120,000 for the convention center and $40,000 for the taxiway relocation. “I’ll get more accurate figures once we get another debt service schedule from our municipal advisors,” he told officials last month. The municipal bond sale is tentatively scheduled for Oct. 29 and settlement will be two weeks later on Nov. 12, Bunting added.
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SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
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PHOTO COURTESY OF TYLER LAYTON
ASSATEAGUE HORSES Pictured from a canoe, these horses – including a recent addition to the band - sought reprieve from the oppressive biting flies on Assateague Island last weekend.
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E-Volution Expo scheduled for next weekend (Sept. 11, 2026) E-Volution Expo 2026, a new event to be held at the Ocean City convention center next Saturday and Sunday, will bring together more than 60 future-focused companies, global experts, and interactive exhibits to showcase advancements in transportation, health, and home technology. The expo hall will be open Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Interactive experiences scheduled across the weekend include hybrid and electric vehicle test drives from manufacturers repre-
sented by Pohanka Salisbury. In addition to advanced transportation, like a flying car demonstration, the event highlights personal health and wellness: • Life Med Institute will feature a large interactive booth offering health and wellness screenings, information on supplements and blood panels, and product giveaways. • TidalHealth will be onsite with its community healthcare network to educate and engage visitors on traditional healthcare options and wellness management.
Daily expert panel discussions and interactive Q&A sessions will be hosted by “Coach” from Ocean 98 radio. Featured speakers will be: • Mark Stross, discussing artificial intelligence and its impact on the future. • Kathleen Stross, speaking on neuroplasticity and leveraging the power of the brain. • Dr. Krishna Athal, traveling from India to present strategies on finding purpose after achieving lifelong milestones. The expo will also function as a
home technology showcase. Schell Brothers will present smart home design and construction technologies, while Crawl Space Ninjas will demonstrate home air quality control systems. Environmental sustainability exhibits include a step-by-step composting showcase by Go Green, alongside displays from Spartan Solar, Robot Labs, Alpine Electronics, Yoga Vibz, and Mowze Robotic Lawn Mowers. Advanced early-bird tickets are available online now at E-volutionexpo.com.
Speakers to discuss innovation, leadership (Sept. 11, 2026) TEDx Butterfish Cove will bring 19 speakers to the Roland E. Powell Convention Center on Friday, Sept. 18, for a day focused on ideas, curiosity and conversation. The event will feature researchers, innovators, advocates, entrepreneurs, educators and other leaders discussing topics ranging from neuroscience and human behavior to leadership, technology, justice, sustainability, wellness, transportation and infrastructure. TEDx events are independently organized under license from TED and
are designed to bring people together to share ideas and encourage conversation. Organizers said TEDx Butterfish Cove will bring that experience to the Maryland coast while exposing attendees to perspectives from a variety of fields. The 2026 TEDx Butterfish Cove speakers are: • Heather Chirtea, a pilot, entrepreneur and early flying-car owner who will explore what emerging forms of transportation could mean for the future of mobility. • Mark Stross, a technologist exam-
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ining the relationship between people, innovation and rapidly evolving technologies. • Dr. Krishna Athal, a leadership scholar exploring influence, human behavior and how leadership can operate beyond visibility or traditional authority. • Dr. Kathleen Stross, a physical therapist and health practitioner whose work examines human behavior, nervous-system responses and how people approach challenges and change. • Dr. Sunita Punjabi, a neuropsychologist and researcher exploring
neuroplasticity, human behavior, resilience and the relationship between the brain and everyday experiences. • David “BullDog” Rothner, a longtime Ocean City radio personality and former commodities broker who will challenge assumptions behind the words “I can’t” and consider what becomes possible by instead asking, “Why not?” • Kim Kelley, a systems strategist examining how incomplete information, assumptions and misunderstandings can shape responses to complex problems. See SPEAKERS Page 31
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OC Today-Dispatch
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OC Today-Dispatch
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
Speakers set for next Friday at OC convention center Continued from Page 29 • Eric Rittmeyer, a former U.S. Marine who draws on lessons in human behavior, emotional intelligence and personal development to examine how people think, communicate and live. • John Huffington, a justice advocate who spent 32 years in Maryland’s prison system while maintaining his innocence and now brings his experience to law enforcement education and discussions about wrongful convictions, assumptions and justice. • Paula Morris, an advocate focusing on brain health and its relationship to individual and community wellbeing. • Tony Myers, a sustainability professional exploring practical approaches to environmental responsibility and the systems shaping a more sustainable future. • Scott Rosenfeld, a lighting professional examining how created environments can influence how people see, experience and interact with the world around them. • Chrissy Ehrhart, a wellness entrepreneur exploring approaches to health, well-being and human potential. • Jason Jurey, an educator focused on environmental issues and the role education can play in protecting the natural world. • Matthew Kern, a chef and restaurateur who will bring the perspectives of hospitality, creativity and human connection to the TEDx stage. • Mike Rucker, a behavioral scientist examining human behavior and the science behind how people experience and pursue enjoyment and wellbeing. • Nick McNulty, an electric vehicle infrastructure professional working at the intersection of transportation, technology and the systems needed to support an evolving mobility landscape. • Kristen LaRose, an advocate focused on women’s health and the experiences shaping broader discussions about health and well-being. • Marc Rohleder, a technology strategist working in wireless and private-network infrastructure and examining the connectivity behind an increasingly connected world. Organizers report the wide range of subjects is an important part of the TEDx experience, giving attendees an opportunity to hear ideas outside their own industries, experiences and areas of expertise. TEDx Butterfish Cove will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City. The event is open to the public. Tickets, the complete speaker lineup and additional information are available at TEDxButterfishCove.com.
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PAGE 32
OC Today-Dispatch
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
OC Rock and Ride underway, Sept. 11 events today Five-day event began Sept. 9, to run through Sept. 13 By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Sept. 11, 2026) After a successful first run, OC Rock and Ride is back for a second year with high aspirations. Promoters Matt and Tyler Odachowski – the father-son duo leading the effort to maintain and revitalize what was once a huge rally – have been hard at on the second iteration of OC Rock and Ride, a five-day gathering of motorcycle enthusiasts. Alongside their team at Kickin Events, the Odachowskis say they are hoping to turn this year’s event into one that stays for years to come. “We’re really excited,” Matt Odachowski told the OC Today-Dispatch last week. “This is our second year, and we learned a lot from last year on what to do and what not to do.” Last year, the Ocean City Council agreed to allow Kickin Events to produce the 2025 motorcycle rally after former OC Bikefest promoter, OC Jams, failed to pay rent and lease fees as outlined in its contract with the city. Less than four months later, an estimated 200,000 motorcycles rolled into Ocean City for the inaugural OC Rock and Ride. By and large, city officials deemed the event a success. And this past winter, the City Council inked a new, three-year contract with Kickin Events, one that provides some concessions and fee waivers to keep OC Rock and Ride going. “This is a $50 million impact to our community. And when you get down to it, it affects all of us that work and live on Delmarva,” Odachowski said of the rally’s impact. “Whether you are a waitress, or a business owner, or a bartender, these are people coming to our area, looking to have a good time, and potentially move to the area … It is a big marketing event for our entire area and it is heavily relied upon by businesses.” This year’s OC Rock and Ride kicked off Sept. 9 and continues through Sept. 13. Held at both the Ocean City Inlet parking lot and the Roland E. Powell Convention Center, the event will feature custom motorcycle displays, free vendor villages, food, stunt shows and demonstrations, and charity events. The rally will also include a Sept. 11 tribute – followed by fireworks and a drone show over the Ocean City skyline – a Boardwalk motorcycle ride on Sept. 12, and a meet-andgreet with singer, songwriter and radio personality Tommy London. OC Rock and Ride will also host See VENDORS Page 34
PAGE 33
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OC Today-Dispatch
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
Vendors, music, shows set for rally Continued from Page 33 live music across two stages, with free daytime performances by regional bands and nightly, ticketed performances by Saliva, Saving Abel, Crack The Sky, Crossfade, Fuel, Hinder, Trapt and more. Odachowski said general admission and VIP tickets are still available for all other nights. He said that includes a $99, three-day general admission ticket with dedicated seating and bus pass. “What we’re trying to do is create an affordable experience, so the community continues to thrive,” he said. 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 & Ride website, or the event’s Facebook page, OC Bikefest. “It will be a great time, so we encourage everyone to come,” Odachowski said. The weekend events include: Friday, Sept. 11 Vendor Village and motorcycle service vendors open at 9 a.m., with event bars opening at 11 a.m. Royal Plus Stage: DJ Sugar, 11:30 a.m.-noon; Lime Green, noon-1:30 p.m.; Wavvy Gravy, 2-3:30 p.m. Progressive Stage: Tommy London, 4-4:30 p.m.; Cecilia’s Fall, 4:306 p.m.; Fuel, 6:30-7:45 p.m.;
FILE PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
On Friday, Sept. 11, the day’s festivities will conclude with a fireworks and drone show intended as a patriotic tribute to the 9/11 events. Pictured is a scene from last year’s tribute.
Crossfade, 9:15 p.m.-close. Stunt shows are scheduled for 11:15-11:45 a.m., 1:30-2 p.m. and 3:30-4 p.m. A National Anthem and 9/11 tribute featuring fireworks and a drone show is scheduled for 7:45 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12 Vendor Village and motorcycle service vendors open at 9 a.m., with event bars opening at 11 a.m.
Royal Plus Stage: DJ Sugar, 11:30 a.m.-noon; Johnny Cardo, noon-1:30 p.m.; Voodoo Tribe, 2-3:30 p.m.; Bikini Contest, 4-5 p.m. Progressive Stage: Tommy London, 5-6 p.m.; Gavin Hades, 6-7 p.m.; Trapt, 7:30-9 p.m.; Hinder, 9:30 p.m.-close. Stunt shows are scheduled for 11:15-11:45 a.m., 1:30-2 p.m. and 55:30 p.m.
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
Assateague ballet festival returning for a fourth year (Sept. 11, 2026) The fourth annual Ballet on the Beach Dance Festival will return to Assateague Island on Sept. 19, bringing together professional dancers from across the nation for an outdoor performance before sunset. The free public event will take place from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Assateague State Park. Pre-performance activities begin at 3:30 p.m. While admission is free, a $5 park vehicle fee applies. Cosponsored by Assateague State Park and the Maryland Park Service, the festival combines classical and contemporary dance with environmental education. Attendees are encouraged to bring beach chairs. “When you make your way over the bridge to the island, you feel like you enter into a different world where everything moves in harmony,” said Vanessa Salgado, founder of Ballet on the Beach. “Adding the art of dance to the mix is a joy for audiences to experience. We’re excited to present our fourth annual festival, a program that families across Maryland, the Mid-Atlantic, and beyond have come to look forward to attending each year.” The 2026 lineup features guest artists from major dance organizations, including The Washington Ballet, Continuum Contemporary Ballet, Dance Theatre of Harlem, Janusphere Dance Company, and Ballet Theatre of Maryland. Notable performances include Dance Theatre of Harlem’s Lindsey Donnell and Kouadio Davis appearing with Continuum Contemporary Ballet in Delicate Nature, a piece choreographed by Donna Salgado. The program also features guest artist Milan Misko, a filmmaker in residence whose work has appeared at Lincoln Center, and youth violin prodigy Jonathan Zapuche. In addition to dance, the festival will feature environmental talks. Meghan Rhode, assistant park manager of Assateague State Park, will speak on local history and the island’s famous wild ponies. Dr. Madhumi Mitra, a professor of biological and environmental sciences at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, will discuss her research on seaweeds in local coastal bays. If inclement weather occurs on Sept. 19, the rain date is scheduled for Sept. 20. If both dates face severe weather, the festival will move indoors to the Jackson Family Auditorium in Holloway Hall at Salisbury University. The festival is supported by the Worcester County Arts Council, the Maryland State Arts Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts, alongside various local community foundations and businesses. Organizers have partnered with Hyatt Place Ocean City Oceanfront Hotel to offer special lodging rates for travelers. More details and ticket registrations are available at www.balletonthebeach.org.
PAGE 35
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OC Today-Dispatch
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
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OC Today-Dispatch
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SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
Decatur grad finishes Miss America contest in top 11 By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Sept. 11, 2026) Stephen Decatur High School graduate Lindsay Jones’ journey to the Miss America 2027 stage culminated with her being named among the top 11 of pageant contestants. Jones, 26, and a Bishopville native, recently represented South Carolina in the Miss America pageant in West Palm Beach after being crowned Miss South Carolina earlier this year. She reached the semifinals phase, being named among the top 11 of finalists. Regan Hutsell of Texas ultimately captured the Miss America 2027 title. Following the competition, Jones reflected on the experience in a message shared on Facebook, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to represent her
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OC Today-Dispatch
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
PAGE 39
Pines vehicle raffle back with new approach By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Sept. 11, 2026) The Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department’s vehicle raffle has returned for another year, but this time with a twist and better odds for participants. For this year’s annual car fundraiser, rather than offering a specific automobile, the Ocean Pines rescue department is giving the winner the choice between a new vehicle or $50,000 in cash. OPVFD President Joe Enste said the department decided to change the raffle format this year while also limiting the
number of tickets sold to 1,500. “We’ve kind of spiced it up a little bit where we’re offering either a brand-new vehicle or $50,000 cash,” he said. With only 1,500 tickets available, each ticket gives participants a one-in1,500 chance of winning the grand prize, better odds than in previous years. “We’ve made the chances better on it now,” Enste said. “You have a one in 1,500 chance of winning $50,000 or a brand-new vehicle, which is pretty darn good when you compare it to a lot of other raffles that are out there.” In the past, the department worked
with local car dealerships to select a specific make and model for the raffle, with the vehicle displayed at the fire station throughout the drawing. This year, however, construction at the department’s South Station has limited the space available, prompting the department to take a different approach. The flexible prize also gives the winner more options when selecting a vehicle. “If somebody came and they didn’t want a pickup truck and they wanted, you know, a brand-new Kia or a Jeep Renegade, we could take that $50,000
cash and they can go get it themselves, or we can work with them to go to a dealer and put that money down on it,” Enste said. Tickets are $100 and are available through the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department’s website or from department members. Approximately 500 of the 1,500 available tickets have been sold so far. The drawing will take place once all 1,500 tickets are sold or by the end of the year, whichever comes first, Enste noted. Proceeds from the raffle help support the OPVFD and its operations.
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PAGE 40
OC Today-Dispatch
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
Jones honored as semifinalist
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Lindsay Jones, a graduate of Stephen Decatur High School and Salisbury University, was named a semifinalist in last weekend’s Miss America pageant, meaning she finished in the top 11 of all the contestants.
Continued from Page 38 her “Miss America sisters” an “incredible week.” “What a dream. Representing South Carolina at Miss America was truly magical,” she added to her social media message. “Thank you for all the love and support.” Jones’ top 11 finish concludes a swift rise in pageantry for the Worcester County native. Jones’ career outside of the competition industry has centered on business and community service. After high school, Jones earned her undergraduate degree and a master’s degree in business administration from Salisbury University. She now works as a national sales manager for Stanley Black & Decker. She has been promoted four times in five years and manages a $200 million territory that includes major retailers such as Home Depot. Additionally, Jones has focused on
empowering women through her work with the American Heart Association, raising more than $7,000 through women’s empowerment events and collaborations with Pilates studios across the country. Her path to the pageant world began somewhat unexpectedly. Jones has said she was inspired to compete after receiving a postcard in the mail advertising a pageant opportunity. She went on to earn the title of Miss Charleston before becoming Miss South Carolina this spring. During the Miss South Carolina competition, Jones was recognized with the Overall Interview Award, Overall Health and Fitness Award, and Women in Business Award. She also received a $60,000 scholarship from the Miss South Carolina Scholarship Organization. Although Jones now calls South Carolina home, she has continued to emphasize the role Ocean City played in shaping her. “I will always love Ocean City,” she told OC Today-Dispatch in July. “I’m so thankful for all the opportunities and experiences that helped me get to where I am today.” Jones is the daughter of Susan and Clay Jones. Susan Jones is the CEO of the Ocean City Hospitality Association. Her sister, Ally, joined her at the event. She has credited local mentors, including Judi Billups, a former college professor, and Caitlin Evans, her hospitality teacher at Worcester Technical High School, with helping guide her during pivotal periods in her life.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Miss South Carolina Lindsay Jones, center, is pictured with her mom, Susan, and sister, Ally, at last weekend’s festivities.
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OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 41
PAGE 42
Who’s Where When BLU CRABHOUSE / DISTRICT 24 410-289-3322 24th Street Bayside Fri., Sept. 11: Lime Green Sat., Sept. 12: CC & RB Duo Thurs., Sept. 17: Randy Lee Ashcraft
OC Today-Dispatch
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
Best Beats On The Beach
BURLEY OAK BREWING COMPANY 443-513-4647 10016 Old Ocean City Blvd., Berlin Fri., Sept. 11: TBA
DJ ROBCEE Fager’s Island: Fri. & Sat., Sept. 11 & 12
KEVIN POOLE Coconuts Beach Bar: Sat., Sept. 12 & Thurs., Sept. 17
DJ BIGLER Harborside: Saturdays
BUXY’S SALTY DOG & DRY DOCK 28 410-289-BUXY 28th Street Coastal Hwy. Fri., Sept. 11: TBA CAPTAIN’S TABLE 410-289-7192 15th & Boardwalk In The Courtyard Marriott Fridays & Saturdays: Phil Perdue
GREAT TRAIN ROBBERY Fager’s Island: Friday & Saturday, September 11 & 12
CARIBBEAN POOL BAR 410-289-6181 In The Plim Plaza Hotel 109 N. Atlantic Ave. Fri., Sept. 11: Ramsey’s Ride & Free State Country Sat., Sept. 12: Star Spangler Hustlers & The Runner Ups COCONUTS BEACH BAR 410-289-6846 Oceanfront At Castle In The Sand Hotel 37th & 38th Streets Fri., Sept. 11: Darin Engh & Island Jack Band Sat., Sept. 12: Kevin Poole & Joe Mama & Top Dead Center Sun., Sept. 13: Dave Reed & Aaron Howell Trio Mon., Sept. 14: Sean Loomis & The Rogue Citizens Tues., Sept. 15: The Jamn Brothers & All The Vibes Wed., Sept. 16: Toney Mowen & DJ Wax Thurs., Sept. 17: Kevin Poole & Endless Ember COINS PUB 410-289-3100 28th Street Plaza On Coastal Hwy. Fri, Sept. 11: Dueling Pianos Sat., Sept. 12: Jim Long & Park Avenue Tues., Sept. 15: Jamin’ Brothers
PHIL PERDUE Captain’s Table: Fridays & Saturdays
UNCLE WARD Crabcake Factory Bayside: Fri., Sept. 11
BRYAN CLARK Fager’s Island: Tues., Sept. 15
DJ BILLY T Harborside: Fridays, Sat., Sept. 12 & Wednesdays
SURREAL Purple Moose: Friday & Saturday, September 11 & 12
JIM LONG Coins Pub: Saturdays
BEATS BY DEOGEE Pickles Pub: Fridays
LIVE WIRE Seacrets: Friday, September 11
DJ GROOVE Fish Tales: Fri. & Sat., Sept. 11 & 12
CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE 302-988-5000 37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54, Selbyville, DE Fri., Sept. 11: Uncle Ward & Jack Bannon Tues., Sept. 15: C-Miller Wed., Sept. 16: Johnny Phatt FAGER’S ISLAND 410-524-5500 60th St., In The Bay Fri., Sept. 11: Great Train Robbery, DJ RobCee & Love Hate Mixtape
JACK BANNON Crabcake Factory Bayside: Fri., Sept. 11
THE DUNEHOUNDS Pickles Pub: Saturday, September 12
DJ WAX Pickles Pub: Tuesdays Fish Tales: Fri., Sept. 11
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 43
Who’s Where When Sat., Sept. 12: Great Train Robbery, DJ RobCee & Kittyback Mon., Sept. 14: Deck Party - Cecilia’s Fall & DJ Stinson Tues., Sept. 15: Bryan Clark & Saltwater Sweat Line Dancing
FULL CICLE Harborside: Friday, September 11
PARK AVENUE Jolly Jellyfish Beach Club: Friday, September 11 Coins Pub: Saturday, September 12
THE RUNNER UPS Caribbean Pool Bar: Saturday, September 12
BLACK HOLE SONS Seacrets: Friday & Saturday September 11 & 12
FISH TALES 410-289-0990 22nd Street & The Bay Fri., Sept. 11: DJ Wax, Joe & Rachel & DJ Groove Sat., Sept. 12: DJ Groove, Joe & Rachel & DJ Hook Sun., Sept. 13: Colossal Fossil Sauce HARBORSIDE 410-213-1846 South Harbor Rd., West End O.C. Fridays: DJ Billy T-All Day, Full Circle & Caileen & AJ Fox Sat., Sept. 12: DJ Billy T, Mercury Agenda & DJ Bigler Sun., Sept. 13: Opposite Directions & Caileen & AJ Fox Wednesdays: DJ Billy T Thursdays: Dust N Bones JOLLY JELLYFISH BEACH CLUB 443-664-6147 98th Street Coastal Hwy., Plaza Condominium Fri., Sept. 11: Park Avenue Sat., Sept. 12: Lennon & The Leftovers Sun., Sept. 13: On The Edge
SIX WHISKEY REVIVAL Purple Moose: Saturday, September 12 (2pm) Pickles Pub: Saturday, September 12 (5pm)
KITTYBACK Fager’s Island: Saturday, September 12
ON THE EDGE Jolly Jellyfish: Sunday, September 13
ROGUE CITIZENS Coconuts Beach Bar: Monday, September 14
MERCURY AGENDA Harborside: Saturday, September 12
RAMSEY’S RIDE Caribbean Pool Bar: Friday, September 11
PICKLES PUB 410-289-4891 8th Street & Philadelphia Ave. Fri., Sept. 11: Spank’d & Beats By DeoGee Sat., Sept. 12: The Dunehounds, Six Whiskey Revival & Beats By Rampage Mon., Sept. 14: Karaoke w/ Wood Tuesdays: Beats By Wax Thurs, Sept. 17: Beats By Connair PURPLE MOOSE SALOON 410-289-6953 Between Caroline & Talbot Streets On The Boards Fri., Sept. 11: Surreal & DJ Sat., Sept. 12: Six Whiskey Revival (2pm), Surreal & DJ Papi SEACRETS 410-524-4900 49th Street & Coastal Hwy. Fri., Sept. 11: Jexxa, DJ Davie, Black Hole Sons, DJ E-State, Live Wire & DJ Swoosh Sat., Sept. 12: Radio Stranger, DJ J-Spinz, Black Hole Sons, DJ Connair, DJ E-State & Gab Cinque Thurs, Sept. 17: Dueling Pianos, Faith Noel & DJ J-Spinz
PAGE 44
OC Today-Dispatch
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
END OF SUMMER SALE! Shop your favorite brands on sale now!
Nalu Kai Apparel Now 50% OFF!
Quiet Storm Swim NOW 50% OFF!
Nalu Kai Swim Now 50% OFF!
OCEAN CITY / REHOBOTH / VIRGINIA BEACH / CHARLESTON / HILTON HEA
OC Today-Dispatch
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
END OF SUMMER SALE! Soak up the sun and savings!
Big End Of Summer Sale!* Branded Apparel Summer Sale NOW 50% OFF!
• Unisex Fleece $20 OFF* • Women’s Fleece $20 OFF* • Men’s Hybrids $20 OFF* • Men’s Vollies 50% OFF* • Men’s Button Ups 50% OFF* • S/S T-Shirts $5 OFF* • Sandals 50%OFF* Men’s & Women’s Styles
• Tech Shirts $20 OFF* Hooded
• Hats $10 OFF* NOW OPEN: MIDTOWN 75th STREET 410-847-7000 123rd STREET / 410-390-5603 THE BOARDWALK / 410-289-7000 Shop your Quiet Storm favorites online @ QuietStorm.com The Big Summer Sale applies to our Quiet Storm gear only.* New Quiet Storm Mock necks excluded from promotions. Brands excluded from sale: All Fall merchandise, Vuori & Free People.
Quiet Storm Fleece $20 OFF!
D / MYRTLE BEACH / DELRAY BEACH / FT. LAUDERDALE / KEY WEST
PAGE 45
OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 46
Dining Guide ■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$ ■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted —————————————
DOWNTOWN
South end to 28th Street ■ BUXY’S SALTY DOG SALOON DRY DOCK 28 28th Street, Ocean City, 410-289-0973, buxys.com, drydockoc.com Destiny has a new home in Ocean City. From the ‘burgh to the beach, Buxy’s is your home away from Pittsburgh. Come see what all the locals already know and have known – Buxy’s is the place to come to meet friends, relax and be social with no attitudes. House specialties include “The” Cheesesteak Sub, Primanti-styled sandwiches, pierogis, egg-rolls and homemade crab dip. Dry Dock also features a full menu with soups, salads, kick starters, pierogis and craft pizza. ■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE 15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, in The Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City 410-2897192, captainstableoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar A local tradition for over 60 years featuring hand cut steaks, premium lobster and perfectly prepared regional seafood. Breakfast daily 7:30-11 a.m. Open daily for dinner: Sunday through Thursday, 4-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4-10 p.m. Happy Hour, seven days a week, 4-6 p.m. ■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT 28th Street Plaza and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100, www.coinspuboc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar American style local restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. Sunday’s early bird specials, all day and all night. Happy Hour; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. with food and drink specials. Open Monday through Friday, 2 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 11:30 a.m. Dinein, carry out. ■ CORAL REEF RESTAURANT & BAR 17th Street in the Holiday Inn & Suites, Ocean City 410-289-2612, coralreefrestaurant.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Enjoy traditional Eastern Shore cuisine and local favorites that are sure to please your entire party! Choose from a selection of house specialty entrees such as sharables, handhelds and seafood. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Featuring specialty rums. Open daily, 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. ■ DISTRICT 24: BLUE CRABHOUSE& RAW BAR, JAY’S CAFÉ, CRAFT BEER & 1945 STEAK & SEAFOOD HOUSE 2305 Philadelphia Ave, Ocean City 410289-3322, district24oc.com $$-$$$ | Reservations | Kids’ Menu | Full bar Nestled on 24th Street Bayside in Ocean City, Maryland, District 24 stands as one destination brimming with endless possibilities. On the first floor, Blu Crabhouse & Raw Bar invites you to indulge in all-you-can-eat blue crabs, easy-peel shrimp, golden fried chicken, and so much more, while Jay’s Café serves breakfast sandwiches all day alongside La Colombe coffee, fresh pastries, and delicious lunch creations. Just steps away, CRAFT Bar delivers smash burgers, crispy wings, craft pizzas, an impressive selection of craft beer, handcrafted cocktails, and more. Rising above it all on the third floor, the stunning new 1945 Steak & Seafood offers breathtaking rooftop views, in-house hand-cut chops, exceptional seafood favorites, vibrant Mediterranean cuisine, and thoughtful bourbon and wine pairings. Let’s face it—there’s simply more at District 24. ■ FISH TALES 2107 Herring Way, Ocean City, 410-2890990, ocfishtales.com Bayfront marina dining offered here with a
huge menu to satisfy guests of all ages. Enjoy a drink from a hanging chair or fish tacos at your table while the kids play in a playground build in the sand. Food and drink menus offer enough of a variety to meet all needs. ■ HARBOR WATCH 806 S. Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City 410289-5121, www.harborwatchrestaurant.com $$-$$$ | Reservations | Kids’ Menu | Full bar Celebrating our 42nd year with fresh seafood, an award-winning raw bar, mouthwatering steaks and the best view of the Ocean City Inlet and Assateague Island. Open every day, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Raw Bar Happy Hour Monday through Thursday from 2-6 p.m. Call for banquet and large-party details. ■ PICKLES PUB 706 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 410289-4891, picklesoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Easy to find with plenty of free parking, serving lunch, dinner and entire diverse menu until 1 a.m. Also nightly entertainment yearround and a great place to watch all the sports on an ocean of televisions including a giant high-def screen. Also four pool tables on site. Lunch and dinner and entire menu until 1 a.m. Open all year from 11:30 a.m.-2 a.m., seven days a week. ■ PIT & PUB 2706 Philadelphia Ave. and 12701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, pitandpub.com Ocean City’s home of Pulled Pork and the finest barbecue, the legendary 28th Street Pit & Pub and the Northside Pit & Pub are known for serving up delicious smokehouse specialties. Grab a brew and enjoy the live sports action on one of the big screen TVs. Happy hour daily. Family-friendly atmospheres at both locations. Weekend entertainment. ■ THE WEDGE BAR 806 S. Atlantic Ave, Ocean City www.thewedgeoc.com $-$$ | Full bar Panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, bay and Assateague Island. Enjoy small plates, sandwiches and grilled burgers. Open every day, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
MIDTOWN
29th to 90th streets ■ 32 PALM 32nd Street in The Hilton, Ocean City 410289-2525, 32palm.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Elevated cuisine, locally sourced ingredients and allocated spirits are prominently featured in our lounge and dining room. Open year-round for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Routinely updated menus with the highest quality local ingredients for fresh seafood any time of the year! ■ THE BONFIRE 71st Street, Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, 410524-7171, thebonfirerestaurant.com Celebrating more than 50 years as the best seafood and prime rib buffet in Ocean City. It’s all here – the service, the atmosphere and finest, freshest seafood available and quality meats. Save room for the decadent desserts available as well including homemade donuts. ■ COCONUTS BEACH BAR & GRILL 3701 Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 410-2896846, castleinthesand.com A tropical open-air patio steps from the beach. A unique place for lunch or dinner with a menu featuring all the customary items and a few Ocean City-based surprises. Guests can also enjoy beach service for lunch and cocktails. Be sure to check out the daily entertainment schedule. ■ FAGERS ISLAND 201 60th St., Ocean City, 410-524-5500, fagers.com $$ | Full bar Dine on the island with an award-winning bayfront restaurant featuring American & Re-
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
gional dining with a global influence and popular destination featuring impeccably prepared American and Pacific Rim cuisine. Also enjoy our outdoor decks and bar with live entertainment and 32 wines by the glass. A place where the joy of food & the presence of the table are of utmost importance. Dine on fresh seafood and our famous Prime Rib. Enjoy beautiful sunsets over the water. Open 11 a.m. daily. Fine dine at 4:30 p.m. ■ HOOKED 8003 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410723-4665, hookedoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar A Common Ground Hospitality concept, a passion driven restaurant group servicing the coastal community. The goal is honor creativity and innovation by design. With passion at the heart of everything, unique dining concepts are paired with honest hospitality and well-made food sourced with fresh local ingredients and seasonal harvests. Craft and full bar available. Open daily 11:30 a.m. ■ LONGBOARD CAFÉ 6701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 443664-5693, longboardcafe.com $$-$$$ | Full bar Casual Dining … Refined. Open for lunch and dinner. A wide range of gourmet burgers, innovative tacos, salads and sandwiches to full dinner entrees featuring fresh local fish prepared in a variety of styles, beef, shellfish and pasta. All our sauces, salsas, dressings, etc. are meticulously house made. We use fresh local sources wherever possible and premium ingredients such as our chuck, brisket and short rib custom blended burgers. Closed Tuesday. Call for reservations. ■ MARLIN MOON RESTAURANT 3301 Atlantic Ave., in the Double Tree Hotel, Ocean City 410-289-1201, marlinmoonocmd.com $$ | Full bar Winner of the Maryland People's choice award, Marlin Moon continues to offer its famous, locally loved dishes and famous happy hour. Enjoy creatively crafted cocktails, fresh selections from the raw bar and luscious desserts. Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m., featuring drink specials. Breakfast, 7:30-11:30 a.m.; Lite Fare, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Dinner, 4-10 p.m.; and Bar open noon to 11 p.m. ■ SEACRETS 49th Street, Ocean City 410-524-4900, www.seacrets.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Open Sunday through Friday at 11 a.m., 10 a.m. on Saturdays, close at 2 a.m. Enjoy a tropical atmosphere and dine under the palms in our outdoor, kid friendly dining area or try a Seacrets Beachin' Cocktails in the Bay with live music every day open to close. The club is open every night in the summer. Try our famous jerk chicken with homemade honey mustard sauce, Pushcart Trio, a true Jamaican dish or a hearty wrap, sandwich or delicious burger. We have it all at Seacrets.
UPTOWN
91st to 146th streets ■ ALBERTINO'S BRICK OVEN & EATERY 13117 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410250-2000, albertinosoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Featuring the best brick oven pizza, always handmade with fresh ingredients, ItalianAmerican mouth-watering seafood specialties, traditional Italian pasta dishes, apps, soups and salads. Full bar with large local craft beer selection. ■ THE CRAB BAG 13005 Coastal Highway Ocean City, 410250-3337, thecrabbag.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Featuring consistent hot steamed crabs, eat in or carryout. The Crab Bag is also an Eastern Shore style seafood house specializing in preparing and serving the biggest and the best blue crabs available. The extensive menu promises something for everyone. Winter hours, Friday-Sunday, open 11 a.m. ■ CRABCAKE FACTORY USA 120th Street, oceanside, Ocean City, 410250-4900, crabcakefactoryusa.com Full-service family restaurant, carry-out and sports bar. Outside seating available. Menu
selections include prime rib, chicken Chesapeake, steamed shrimp, beer battered fish, real Philly cheesesteaks, burgers, and a kids menu. Casual attire, full liquor bar, no reservations. Open Year Round. World-Famous Crabcakes are served all day starting at 8 a.m. and can be packed on ice for you while you are eating breakfast.
FENWICK ISLAND ■ DIRTY HARRY’S 100 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-539-3020, Beach-net.com/dirtyharrys $ | Kids’ Menu | Full bar Don’t let the name fool you, the food is home cooking at its finest. Owned and operated by Ginny Swann and family for 20 years. Voted Best Top 5 Bakeries in Delaware. Popular for the breakfast but getting rave reviews for lunch and dinner, too. ■ NANTUCKETS Route 1, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-5392607, nantucketsrestaurant.com Serving the beach great food and spirits for over 30 years. David and Janet Twining will wow you with the finest foods and drinks in the area. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by what one of the coast’s finest dining establishments has in store for guests. Everything here is a house specialty. ■ TWINING’S LOBSTER SHANTY Rte. 54, Fenwick Island, Del., 302-4362305, twiningshanty.com Reservations | Kids’ Menu “A funky little place at the edge of town.” Classic New England fare, lobsters, steaks and burgers. Bird watching and magical sunsets await. Open for lunch and dinner. Reservations are suggested.
WEST OCEAN CITY ■ BREAKFAST CAFE 12736 Ocean Gateway, Route 50 east, West Ocean City, 410-213-1804, breakfastcafeofoc.com All the traditional breakfast options available here in a casual, diner setting. Open daily closing at 2 p.m. ■ CANTINA LOS AGAVES MEXICAN GRILL 12720 Ocean Gateway #7, West Ocean City 410-390-3914, cantinalosagaves.com $$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar Ocean City’s newest Mexican restaurant and bar. Offering delicious and generous portions of the tastiest traditional and not so traditional #MexicanEats you have ever tried. Open everyday, 12 noon to 9 p.m., kitchen and bar. ■ DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND West Ocean City: Route 50 east; Boardwalk locations: 501 S. Philadelphia Ave., 49th Street, 123rd Street, Ocean City, dumsersdairyland.com This classic ice cream shop is a tradition for many families. Voted O.C.’s “Best Ice Cream” for the past 20 years, Dumser’s is celebrating decades of serving the shore, and the ‘40s-style décor takes you back in time. With locations throughout Ocean City, treating your tastebuds to this signature homemade ice cream is easy. The 123rd Street location offers lunch and dinner menus in addition to a wide variety of ice cream treats. ■ HARBORSIDE BAR & GRILL 12841 Harbor Rd., West Ocean City, 410213-1846, weocharborside.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Home of the original Orange Crush drink with an extensive menu offers a wide variety of appetizers, fresh seafood, steak & pasta entrees, as well as juicy burgers and sandwiches. Whether seeking a full dining experience or just a crush or two, the team will be sure to take excellent care of you and yours. Monday-Wednesday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thursday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. ■ OC DINER 12744 Ocean Gateway, Rt 50 east, Ocean City 410-390-5112 $$ | Kids’ menu Family owned for over 25 years. Serving the best homemade food. Local’s favorite. Breakfast served all day. Kids’ menu. Dine-in and Carry-out. Open 7 days a week.
OC Today-Dispatch
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
ON GUARD
September brings renewed calls to swim near stands By Kristin Joson Contributing Writer (Sept. 11, 2026) Although Labor Day traditionally signals the unofficial end of summer for most people, it marks the beginning of what the Ocean City Beach Patrol calls “fall guarding.” While many people may think the beach season is winding down, we know plenty of warm, sunny days lie ahead along with plenty of visitors who will continue to enjoy Ocean City’s beaches and other events. With those late-season crowds, our mission of keeping beachgoers safe continues as well. Fall guarding, however, brings a different set of challenges than the busy summer months. With fewer lifeguard stands, greater distances between guarded areas, and changing beach and ocean conditions, it is especially important for visitors to understand how their experience on the beach and the safety precautions they should take may change as we move into the fall season. During this period, we are in a reduced coverage mode with fewer life-
Spacious Dining Room
guard towers and surf rescue technicians patrolling the beach. We had already lost over 90% of our seasonal staff of 224 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 latest it can ever be (Sept 7th). These teachers are some of our most experienced SRTs and serve 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. Heavy surf causes an increase in the frequency and severity of rip currents, which account for 95 percent of Continued on Page 48
Large Parties Welcome
PAGE 47
OPEN EVERYDAY
12PM-9PM
HAPPY HOUR EVERYDAY 3-6PM
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12720 OCEAN GATEWAY #7, WEST OC (RT 50 E)
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410-390-3914 CantinaLosAgave.com CantinaLosAgaveWestO
END OF SUMMER FUN
HHHH ENTERTAINMENT HHHH
H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H HH
Friday 8pm: BILLY ZEE’S DUELING PIANOS Saturday: JIM LONG • 4PM PARK AVENUE • 8:30PM Tuesday 8pm: JAMN’ BROTHERS
NFL SUNDAYS ON 33 TVS
THURSDAY THRU SATURDAY 4PM
Ravens & Eagles Headquarters! Birds of a Feather Flock Together...
GAME DAY SPECIALS
Sunday: RAVENS VS COLTS • 1PM EAGLES VS COMMANDERS • 4:25PM
— Live Bands 4pm — FRI: PARK AVENUE SAT: LENNON & THE LEFTOVERS SUN: ON THE EDGE
Great Seafood, Steaks, Burgers & Crab Cakes “No Mumbo All Jumbo” Happy Hour Sun-Fri 2-5:30pm Food and Drink Specials
Early Bird Special Menu Sun-Fri 2-5:30pm
Mon-Thurs: 2pm • Fri, Sat & Sun: 11:30am
28th St. Plaza • 410-289-3100 • coinspuboc.com Dine In, Carry Out & Online Ordering Available
OPEN 11:30AM WEDNESDAY-SUNDAY
OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 48
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
ON GUARD Continued from Page 47 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. 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 backup should the need 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 fewer available personnel, the Beach Patrol remains committed to providing 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 small area. 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, Sept. 27. This coverage will be done with fewer personnel and lifeguard stands, although the increased number of mobile rescue 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. This year we will supplement our coverage utilizing the newly established Code Enforcement personnel, who although not qualified or trained in surf rescue can assist in medical emergencies and provide critical on the scene information during an emergency. Surfing locations is another difference you may notice during the fall season. OCBP Capt. 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
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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. Though fall guarding looks a little different than July or mid-August, the Ocean City Beach Patrol’s top priority is always your safety. For additional information, 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).
CROSSWORD
Crew Chief Everett Brown, a Montgomery County teacher, returns to Ocean City on weekends to help keep the beach staffed with as many stands as possible.
Answers on page 54
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
HOROSCOPE ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 It may feel like you’re coming out of the dark and into the light this week, Aries. A weight has been lifted, but there is still some emotional components to work out.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, have a look at the world around you this week instead of just moving forward with your nose to the grindstone. Enjoy a night out with friends and take an active role in the evening.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, question what you hear this week, and do not take all of the information you receive at face value. You might need to read between the lines.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 This is a great week to go out and get things done, Cancer. Even if you feel a little indecisive, don’t sweat the small details. You don’t have to make any great commitments.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, action is the name of the game for you right now. You might notice a sudden burst of physical energy at some point, and that can be channeled into a walk or bike ride.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Take some of the knowledge you have picked up and processed over the past few weeks and spread it around, Virgo. It is time to put your communication skills to work.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Physical stamina is strong for you this week, Libra. Consider working out to release some of that pent-up energy. A sport or hobby can channel it as well.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Take a break from the seriousness that has taken root lately, Scorpio. You’ll find that some upbeat conversations are the way to navigate the waters this week.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Fried tomato, amuse bouche By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer (Sept. 11, 2026) Perfection is in the eye of the beholder and the degree of skill is judged accordingly. Tuh-MAY-toh or Tu-MAH-to is up to thee and the subject of the day. If you are a fan of tomatoes, read on for some amazing history. Tomato origins have been traced to the Aztecs around 700 A.D. and therefore it is believed that the tomato is native to the Americas. It was not until around the 16th century that Europeans were introduced to the fruit as early explorers set out to discover new lands. Throughout southern Europe, the tomato was quickly accepted into the kitchen, although the same cannot be said in the northern regions of the continent. In cooking, tomatoes are generally treated as a vegetable because they are typically served in savory dishes as opposed to desserts. But the story does not end here and includes arguments before the Supreme Court. In 1893, the high court issued a ruling in a case brought by members of the Nix family against Edward Hedden, collector at the Port of New York, to recover fees they spent transporting tomatoes. Moving onto present day, tomatoes are still in season and fried tomatoes are one of the most popular ways to prepare them. This southern classic is traditionally made with green tomatoes. Half red and green tomatoes are the best: the red provides sweetness, green adds texture. If you prefer a more dramatic dish, a stack of fried tomatoes with a fresh
basil remoulade will certainly catch the attention of your guests. First, the tomatoes must be completely dry on the outside. The skin cannot be wet or the batter will not adhere to the tomato. Typically, the ratio of the egg mixture is one egg and one teaspoon of cold water. Adding an extra egg yolk gives the egg mixture more depth and thickness which helps the egg wash adhere to the tomatoes. Flour is typically used as a glue in a dredge setup, but corn starch allows the batter to adhere better. I experimented and tried a double dip for extra crunchiness, but the thick batter overpowered the tiny tomato. Fried cherry tomatoes served on a dollop of pimento cheese and presented in a Chinese soup spoon are fun and creative. This one bite starter can be served as an amuse bouche or a passed hors d’oeuvre. If time is of the essence, purchase store bought pimento cheese. But for those who prefer to serve homemade pimento cheese, a recipe follows. In closing, if you are a fan of fried tomatoes, you must give a fried cherry tomato amuse bouche a try. Creamy pimento cheese and a crunchy cherry tomato are a perfect pairing. Enjoy!
Pimento Cheese 4 ounces whipped cream cheese 1/2 cup good quality mayonnaise 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard table salt to taste 8 ounces freshly grated sharp cheese 8 ounces freshly grated mozzarella cheese 6 ounces chopped pimentos, drained 1. Combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon, and salt in the medium bowl. Using a hand mixer, thoroughly combine.
canola oil for frying 12 cherry tomatoes 3 eggs: 2 whole eggs and 1 egg yolk 2 teaspoons cold water 1/2 cup cornstarch 2 cups unseasoned panko bread crumbs 1 cup each flour and cornmeal 1/2 teaspoons each garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper 1. Wash tomatoes and allow to dry thoroughly. 2. In a medium cast-iron skillet, heat 2 inches of oil to medium high. 3. Place corn starch is a small bowl. 4. Mix 2 teaspoons water, 2 whole eggs, and 1 egg yolk in a small bowl. 5. Combine panko, flour, and cornmeal in a medium bowl. 6. Coat the cherry tomato liberally in the cornstarch, then the egg mixture, and finally, into the panko mixture. 7. Fry the tomatoes until golden brown. Place the fried tomatoes on a cooling rack, and apply a light dusting of kosher salt. 8. Add a dollop of pimento cheese to a Chinese soup spoon and place a fried cherry tomato on top. Repeat this process for the remaining tomatoes. Secret Ingredient – Surprise Surprise is the greatest gift life can grant us. Boris Pasternak
END OF SUMMER SPECIAL!
Capricorn, your solid footing may become a bit unstable this week. Don’t fret. In fact, infuse a bit of laughter and playfulness into things.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
It is time to take action, Pisces. See how far you can take all of the tasks that are on your to-do list. You may be surprised to find that you accomplish so much.
Fried Cherry Tomatoes
— COUPON —
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
2. Add the cheddar and mozzarella and again mix well. 3. Add the pimentos and carefully mix. 4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
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The things you say to others will have a profound effect, Sagittarius. Be mindful of the words you choose. Enjoy a physical group activity.
There is no excuse for laziness this week, Aquarius. Make sure you get out of bed each day and engage in something that gets your body and mind working.
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OC Today-Dispatch
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OC Today-Dispatch
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
KIWANIS CLUB SUPPORTS OPVFD The Kiwanis Club of Ocean Pines/ Ocean City recently presented a donation to the Ocean Pines Fire Department in recognition of the vital work its firefighters and emergency personnel do to protect and serve the community. Pictured, from left, are Joe Enste, President of the Ocean Pines Fire Department; Sarah Walker, President of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines/ Ocean City; and Dave Van Gasbeck, Vice President of the Ocean Pines Fire Department and new member of the Ocean Pines Kiwanis Club.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
NEIGHBORHOOD GATHERING Ladies on Drawbridge Road, Ocean Pines enjoyed a pot luck luncheon at Jackie Choate's home and home made dessert at the home of Kathy Hill. The ladies usually do this event once a year and enjoy the friendly neighborhood get togethers.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
BELIEVE IN TOMORROW RECEIVES DONATION SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
KIWANIS DONATE TO DIAKONIA
Members of the Kiwanis Club of Ocean Pines/Ocean City present Amanda Koontz of Believe In Tomorrow Children’s Foundation with a $2,500 donation following her presentation to the club.
The Kiwanis Club of Ocean Pines/Ocean City welcomed Ken Argot, executive director of Diakonia, as guest speaker at its August 26 meeting. Argot shared information about Diakonia’s ongoing efforts to provide essential services to individuals and families in need throughout Maryland’s Lower Eastern Shore. Above, Arbot received a $2,500 donation from the club.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
AMERICAN LEGION GIVES BACK TO DIAKONIA Diakonia, Inc. received a generous $2,500 donation from American Legion Post 16 in Crisfield to support the organization’s veteran programs during Veteran Stand Down 50, held Aug. 22 at the Worcester County Library, Ocean Pines Branch. The Stand Down brought Veterans and community organizations together in one location to connect those who served with housing assistance, VA services, healthcare, mental health resources, employment assistance, food, clothing, and other supportive services. Pictured, from left, are Eric Vance Warthen, Sr., Maryland State Commander; Emily VanGasbeck, Diakonia SSVF Case Manager; Shantee Pike, Diakonia SSVF Healthcare Navigator; Stephanie Hellman, Diakonia Veteran Programs Coordinator; Todd Chamberlain, Maryland Second District Commander representing American Legion Post 16 in Crisfield; and Lenny Ward, Eastern Shore Region Commander.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
ELK OF THE MONTH Mike Livingston, chair of Ocean City Lodge #2645 Veterans Services committee, has been named Elk of the Month for August. He received his honor and citation at the lodge August meeting from Exalted Ruler Vernon Betkey. In addition to his work on the Veterans Service Committee, he also chaired the Elks 2026 Hometown Heroes program and the recent annual lodge crab feast. Livingston, left, is pictured with his Elk of the Month citation from Vernon Betkey.
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
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SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
BACK TO SCHOOL AT PREP Worcester Preparatory School last week welcomed students back to campus for the start of the 2026–27 school year. Upper School students returned on Monday, Aug. 31, followed by Middle School students on Tuesday, Sept. 1, and Lower School students on Sept. 2. Top left, middle school student Jaanvi Pandher arrives on the first day of school with a smile and excitement for the year ahead. Top right, siblings Nico Wierengo ’32 and Luna Wierengo ’33 walk into school together to fanfare. Above, from left, are second grader Ri-an Moyer with the Mallard; seniors Emma Nordstrom, Isha Garg, Sydney Parker and Jacquie Lysenko kick off their senior year and their “Last Rodeo”; and siblings Lainie Booth ’37 and Elsie Booth ’35 walk hand in hand onto campus together.
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SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
Calendar Submit calendar items to: editor@octodaydispatch.com. Submission deadline is 5 p.m. Monday, the week of publication. Local submissions have priority. Area event listings are subject to space availability.
Speaker will be Morgan (Mike) Mericle, an avid Ocean City Bridge and Jetty fisherman who has been chasing bridge monsters for years. Also, the Flounder Derby awards will be presented. All are welcome. 410-641-7662
DUTCH OVEN COOKING
Fri., Sept. 11
410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org
MARYLAND CRAB CAKE DINNER RED KNIGHTS ANNUAL 911 PARADE OF BROTHERS BOARDWALK RIDE
Firefighters Memorial, 10 S. Boardwalk, Ocean City, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Registration begins at 10 a.m.; boardwalk ride, 11:30 a.m.; memorial service, noon; scenic ride through Delmarva, 1 p.m. Cost is $30. www.facebook.com/groups/6317030777 68365/posts/2097174577887867/, 610470-6071
OC ROCK & RIDE BIKEFEST
Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City (10 a.m.-7 p.m.) and Ocean City Inlet (9 a.m. to 11 p.m.) Live music, motorcycles, stunt shows, fireworks, vendors, food and drinks and more. Concert tickets and event details: https://www.ocrockandride.com.
Stevenson United Methodist Church, 123 N. Main St., Berlin, 4-6 p.m. One crab cake sandwich platter, $15; two crab cake sandwich platter, $25; and crab cake sandwiches, $10. Platters include green beans, baked potato and Cole slaw. Bake sale table available.
BLAST OFF INTO READING: FAMILY LITERACY NIGHT
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 6 p.m. Explore space and literacy through hands-on activities, crafts and games. Light refreshments provided while supplies last. For families. 410-957-0878, worcesterlibrary.org
Sat., Sept. 12 OC ROCK & RIDE BIKEFEST
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., Berlin, 10:30 a.m. An opportunity for babies and their caregivers to socialize, play, read and explore. Drop by and make some friends. For ages 0-2 years. 410-641-0650, worcesterlibrary.org
Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City (10 a.m.-7 p.m.) and Ocean City Inlet (9 a.m. to 11 p.m.) Live music, motorcycles, stunt shows, fireworks, vendors, food and drinks and more. Concert tickets and event details: https://www.ocrockandride.com.
OC MAHJONG CLUB
OCEAN PINES FALL FLEA MARKET
BABY TIME
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Join in for a fun morning of playing tile Mahjong. Feel free to bring your own tile set. All adults are welcome. 410-5241818, worcesterlibrary.org
Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m.-noon. Indoor and outdoor spaces available ($25 each). All spaces include one 8 ft. table and one chair. Held rain or shine. Register: 410641-7052. Free admission for shoppers.
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 11 a.m. Learn simple techniques, cooking tips and delicious recipes while exploring the versatility of this classic cast-iron cookware. Registration required: 410-9570878. worcesterlibrary.org
ANIME AND MANGA CLUB
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Calling all anime fans. Stop by the Ocean City library to discuss all things anime and meet like-minded people. For ages 12-18 years. 410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org
OCEAN PINES FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET
Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods. Also featuring family-friendly activities, music and unique shopping experiences. Open to the public, year round. 410-6417052, https://www.oceanpines.org/web/pages /farmers-artisans-market
Sun., Sept. 13 OC ROCK & RIDE BIKEFEST
Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Live music, motorcycles, stunt shows, fireworks, vendors, food and drinks and more. Concert tickets and event details: https://www.ocrockandride.com.
OC CRUZERS CAR SHOW CREATIVE CONNECTIONS: FREE 60+ ART CLUB
Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 11 a.m.-1 p.m. The September installment of the Art League of Ocean City’s free monthly art club for seniors! Registration encouraged, but not required: 410-524-9433.
ANNUAL DOGGIE SWIM
Mumford’s Landing Pool, 7351 Yacht Club Drive, Ocean Pines. Open 10-10:30 a.m. for small dogs under 20 pounds. Open 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. for all dogs. Cost is $8 per dog. Benefits Worcester County Humane Society. Donations collected. Rain date is Sept. 19. 410-6415255
MOVIE MATINEE IN 3D!
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Catch a movie you may have missed in theaters. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org
FREE COMMUNITY SHRED DAY
Friendship Church, 10537 Friendship Road, Berlin, 9 a.m.-noon. Limit to 3 boxes. 410-713-4701
CHURCH RUMMAGE SALE BOOK OF THE MONTH: ‘CHELSEA GIRLS’ BY FIONA DAVIS
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Copies of the book are available at the Ocean Pines Library circulation desk.
First Presbyterian Church of Ocean City, 1301 Philadelphia Ave., 7 a.m.-1 p.m.
OCEAN PINES ANGLERS CLUB MEETING
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 9:30 a.m.
Somerset Plaza, Somerset Street, Ocean City, 3-6 p.m. Join the OC Cruzers Car Club for a free, family friendly car show. Each show will feature classic cars, custom rides and hot rods. Also, live music or a DJ. https://www.ocdc.org
BERLIN 2ND SUNDAY ART & VINTAGE MARKET
14 S. Main St., Berlin, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Art and vintage vendors in downtown Berlin. Just a few blocks down from the Berlin Farmers Market. Sponsored by The Merry Haven and the Town of Berlin Main Street & Arts and Entertainment District.
USHER DAY
Calvary United Methodist Church, 8607 Ironshire Station Road, Berlin, 3:30 p.m. Honoring those who serve with faithfulness. Guest preacher is Johnnie
L. Palmer Sr., Collin’s Temple AME Church, Snow Hill.
SECOND SUNDAYS AT THE TAYLOR HOUSE
Calvin B. Taylor House, 208 N. Main St., Berlin, 6 p.m. Featuring music by Colossal Fossil Sauce Trio. www.taylorhousemuseum.org
BERLIN FARMERS MARKET
Sundays (May-October) - Pitts, Commerce and Main streets, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine. Producers only market, petting farm (9-11 a.m.), live music. www.TheBerlinFarmersMarket.com
SEWING SEEDS OF LOVE
Sundays - Buckingham Presbyterian Church, 20 S. Main St., Berlin, 10-11 a.m. Youth of all ages learn how to sew while making a difference. 410-6410234
JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING
Sundays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 10 a.m. www.jw.org
Mon., Sept. 14 STORY TIME: HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Crafts, songs and stories. For ages 0-5 years. 410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org
BABY TIME
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Songs, stories and giggles. For ages 0-2 years. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org
WRITING FOR WELLNESS
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:30 p.m. Writing about stressful experiences like illness may boost health and psychological well-being. This group uses exercises to stimulate creative expression. 410208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org
THE HISTORY OF THE OCEAN CITY LIBRARY
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 4:30 p.m. Celebrate Library Card Sign-up Month by learning about the interesting history of the Ocean City Library. Books in banks, lines to use the internet and more. 410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org
TOPS OF BERLIN - GROUP #169
TidalHealth Atlantic, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 5-6:30 p.m. Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) is an educational group that promotes weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. Held weekly on Mondays. https://www.tops.org/home
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
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OC Today-Dispatch
CALENDAR ZUMBA
Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 4:30 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com
BRIDGE
Mondays - Ocean City 50plus Center, 104 41st Street, Ocean City, 12:30-3:30 p.m. Reserve a spot: Tish, 410-8043971. www.Worcoa.org/oceancity
DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6:00-8:00 p.m. All ladies who love to sing invited. If you plan to visit, please Contact: Director: Ludwig692@outlook.com, 410641-6876 or Membership Coordinator: ocelissa@yahoo.com, 410-641-8050.
read the book beforehand, come out and enjoy a shared reading experience as a group. Afterwards children play games or do crafts. Best for ages 6-8 years. 410957-0878, worcesterlibrary.org
FREE MOVIE NIGHT: ORDINARY ANGELS (RATED PG)
Friendship Church, 10537 Friendship Road, Berlin. Light refreshments begin at 6 p.m. Show time is at 6:15 p.m. Movie is approximately 2 hours. 410713-4701
BEACH HEROES-OC
Tuesdays - Volunteer beach clean-up group meets from 9-10 a.m., year-round. Trash bags, grabbers and gloves provided. Check the Facebook page “Beach Heroes-OC” for weekly meeting locations. All are welcome.
OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS
Mondays - Worcester County Library Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 7-8 p.m. No dues or fees. 410-459-9100
Tues., Sept. 15 GENEALOGY WORKSHOP
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. This workshop starts with a 20-minute lesson on genealogy research, followed by a Q&A. Bring a laptop, tablet or papers containing family information, if you can. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org
BABY TIME
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Songs, rhymes and stories. Stay after to socialize with other families. For ages 0-2 years. 410-632-5622, worcesterlibrary.org
STORY TIME
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Story time featuring seasonal themes designed to support early literacy skills with stories, songs and fingerplays. For ages 0-5 years. 410-641-0650, worcesterlibrary.org
CLAY & PLAY
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 10:30 a.m. Create, squish and play. For ages 2-5 years. 410957-0878, worcesterlibrary.org
MASTER GARDENERS PLANT CLINIC
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1-4 p.m. Bring any questions you have and feel free to show your plants as well. 410208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org
TEEN CHEF
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 3:30 p.m. Make some energy bites to power through the day. For ages 12-18 years. Registration required: 410-208-4014. worcesterlibrary.org
EARLY READERS BOOK CLUB: ‘FRANK AND THE BAD SURPRISE’ Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 4 p.m. No need to
JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING
Tuesdays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 7 p.m. www.jw.org
TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY
Tuesdays - Worcester County Health Department, 9730 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3:30-4:30 p.m. TOPS is a weekly support and education group promoting weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. 410289-4725
ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE
Tuesdays - Lewes Senior Center, 32083 Janice Rd. Lewes, DE, 7-9 p.m. Experienced dancers and others interested in watching or learning more are welcome. No partner required. Info: TangobytheBeach.com.
ZUMBA TONING TUESDAYS
Tuesdays - Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 5:15 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com
BACKGAMMON CLUB
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Drop in for a game of Backgammon, whether you’re an expert or want to refresh your skills. Beginners welcome. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org
DEMYSTIFYING THE SYMPHONY
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m. This four-session course familiarizes attendees with contemporary orchestras. Light refreshments. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra and FOPL. Registration required: 410-208-4014.
Tuesdays - Holy Trinity Cathedral, 11021 Worcester Highway, 2-2:45 p.m. Use the weight loss program/app/plan of your choice. Free and open to everyone. 410-641-4882, www.htcanglican.org/activities.
Wed., Sept. 16 EASTERN SHORE SEWISTS
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10 a.m. Promoting the needle arts through sewing education, activities and textile crafts. For artisans of all skill levels. 410-6410650, worcesterlibrary.org
SENSORY STAY AND PLAY
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Learn through exploration, curiosity and creativity during the sensory stay and play. Get ready to squish, build, splash, shake and scoop through several fun stations. For ages 0-5 years. 410524-1818
KIWANIS CLUB MEETING
Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. Last Wednesday of the month meetings are offsite and information can be found on the website and Facebook. www.kiwanisofopoc.org.
CASH BINGO
Wednesdays - Ocean City Elks Lodge 2645, 13708 Sinepuxent Ave. Door open at 5 p.m., bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. Food available before bingo. Open to the public. 443-605-5028
SCAMS AND HOW TO AVOID THEM
Learn how to recognize scams and protect yourself, 12 p.m. Register: https://allegany.librarymarket.com/eve nt/safe-scam-awareness-financial-education-series-title-washington-street-library-33597. 443-783-6164
BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP
TidalHealth John H. “Jack” Burbage, Jr. Cancer Center, 9707 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 1-2 p.m. Hosted by Women Supporting Women. Held on the third Wednesday of each month. 410-548-7880.
DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP
Snow Hill 50plus Center, 4767 Snow Hill Road, 1 p.m. Hosted by the Worcester County Health Department. Held on the third Wednesday of each month. 410-632-1100, ext. 1113
PUZZLE SWAP
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 1-7 p.m. Bring your gently used puzzles and leave with a new-toyou puzzle. Don’t have a puzzle but still want one? That’s okay, too. All puzzles must be complete and in their original box. All ages welcome. 410-641-0650
CHAIR YOGA WEIGHT MANAGEMENT AND WELLNESS GROUP
couples welcome. 908-229-8799
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Certified yoga instructor Samantha Biskach teaches this class. Registration required: 410-641-0650. worcesterlibrary.org
STORIES OF EVERYDAY PEOPLE IN THE WAR OF 1812
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 3 p.m. What was it like for everyday citizens and local militiamen, as well as slaves, freedmen, women? Historian Mike Dixon reveals unpublished stories of unrepresented peoples. 410-208-4014
SERVICE SQUAD
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 3:30 p.m. Worcester County teens earn service learning hours by helping out with craft and program prep, or other activities. Call about potential projects. For ages 12-18 years. 410-641-0650
ZUMBA PLUS!!
Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 4:30 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com
Thurs., Sept. 17 KING OF THE WIND KITE FESTIVAL
The Kite Loft, 511 Boardwalk, Ocean City, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Witness and participate in general kite flying, kite flying games, Bol races, candy drops, sport kite demos or just plain kite spectating. Free event. Wind and weather permitting. kiteloft.com
COMPUTER BASICS: WINDOWS 11
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10 a.m. Learn about Windows 11. Bring a laptop. Bring a mouse if you can. Registration required: 410-641-0650. worcesterlibrary.org
STORY TIME: FIREFIGHTERS
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Crafts, songs, stories and very special guests. For ages 2-5 years. 410-208-4014
STORY TIME ‘ALL ABOUT FEELINGS’
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and rhymes. For ages 2-5 years. 410-632-5622, worcesterlibrary.org
DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP
Pocomoke City 50plus Center, 400 Walnut St., 11 a.m. Hosted by the Worcester County Health Department. Held on the third Thursday of each month. 410-6321100, ext. 1113
LET’S MAKE… AUTUMN BOTANICAL BOOKMARKS Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Use pressed flowers, leaves and other autumn-hued supplies to create a beautiful bookmark. Registration required: 410641-0650. worcesterlibrary.org
KIDS’ KITCHEN FREE INTRODUCTORY SQUARE DANCE LESSONS
Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 7-8:30 p.m. Singles and
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30 p.m. Create a dish inspired by Hispanic Her-
Continued on Page 54
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SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
CALENDAR Continued from Page 53
itage Month. For ages 6-11 years. Registration required: 410-208-4014. worcesterlibrary.org
WORCESTER COUNTY NAACP MEETING
Berlin 50plus Center, 10129 Old Ocean City Blvd., 6 p.m. Speaker Jocelyn Abbott, Director of Worcester County Election Board and speaker Monica Brooks, President of Wicomico NAACP and overseer of Eastern Shore NAACP. Everyone welcome. 443-359-9240
HONDO’S GLADIATOR MINI GOLF TOURNAMENT Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 6-9 p.m. Mini golf tournament benefiting the Art League of Ocean City. 410-524-9433
DRY PANTRY
Thursdays - St. Paul United Methodist Church, 405 Flower Street, Berlin, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. For those in need of resources such as paper products, laundry products, baby items, and personal care items. Limits apply. 410-641-0270
ONGOING EVENTS DUCK-TEMBER DECORATING CONTEST
Ocean Pines library, 11107 Cathell Road, Sept. 14-Oct. 16. Decorate your duck as your favorite book character. Stop by the library to pick up your duck and get all the official rules. For families. 410-208-4014
HISTORY-TO-GO - PUMPKIN CARVING
Snow Hill library, 301 Bank St., throughout September. Learn how Halloween has been celebrated throughout history and get patterns to carve historically inspired pumpkins. 410-632-5622
TEEN TIME
Ocean Pines library, 11107 Cathell Road, throughout September, 3:30 p.m. Create a festive wreath in time for fall. While supplies last. For ages 12-18 years. 410-208-4014
TEEN & TWEEN ADVISORY COMMITTEE NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS
Pocomoke library, 401 5th Street, Unit 100. Build leadership skills and add something meaningful to your resume. Applications are available in the guidance office at Pocomoke Middle School and Pocomoke High School. Submit application by Oct. 31. For ages 12-18 years. 410-957-0878
Then, take a walk while you read the library’s newest StoryWalk title at John Walter Smith Park. For families. 410632-5622
OCEAN CITY-BERLIN ROTARY CLUB CREATIVITY CORNER
Berlin library, 13 Harrison Ave. Enjoy the monthly craft, work on the puzzle, add to the community journal or challenge a friend to a board or card game in the Teen Loft. For ages 12-18 years. 410641-0650
CHECK-OUT CHALLENGE
Visit different branches of the Worcester County libraries, read books and check out items using your library card. For every activity you complete, you get entered in the grand prize drawing. For families. 410-632-5622.
Ocean City library, 10003 Coastal Highway, Sept. 1-30. Simply pick up a copy of this month’s read, “The Berry Pickers” by Amanda Peters. Come in before the end of the month to share your impressions and enter the drawing to win free books. 410-524-1818
STORYWALK TAKE AND MAKE
POLISH AMERICAN CLUB OF DELMARVA
Snow Hill library, 301 Bank St., Sept. 1Nov. 30. Stop by the library to pick up supplies to make a fall nature mobile.
Meets the first and third Wednesday of each month at Ocean Pines library, 11107 Cathell Road, 6 p.m. ocberlinrotary@gmail.com
MARYLAND FIREFIGHTER 50/50 FUNDRAISER
Drawings are held every Thursday at 8 p.m. Ticket sales open Thursdays at 8:05 p.m. and close the following Thursday at 7:59 p.m. One winner takes home 50% of the total jackpot and the remainder supports the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department. Tickets: https://md.5050raffle.org/give/mdfire/50 -50-raffles/md5050/charities/ocean-pines
GREAT TRAIN RAFFLE
Win a Charlie Davis wooden handcrafted train. Valued at $400. Tickets cost $5 each or three for $10. Tickets available at the Pine’eer Craft Club, Artisan Gift Shop, 239 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines. Drawing will take place at the end of day at the Annual Craft Fair on Nov. 7, held 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Ocean Pines Community Center. Need not be present to win.
OC READS: ‘THE BERRY PICKERS’ BY AMANDA PETERS
Highway, Ocean City, 2-4 p.m. A social organization of men and women of Polish or Slavic descent.
Crossword answers from page 48
Meets the second Wednesday of each month (except July and August) at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 9901 Coastal
Summer Rentals Gone, Ocean’s & Country Calling Coming… SOON! Time to Refresh! Carpet: Soiled Upholstery: Dingy LVP and Tile: Yuck Call today to get on the schedule, don’t make your guests or renters suffer. 302-436-5652 • 800-554-5900 BRASURESCARPETCARE.COM Locally owned & operated, serving OC since 1983
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
55
OC Today-Dispatch
Call 410-723-6397 or email classifieds@octodaydispatch.com by Monday, 5 p.m.
Classifieds appear in OC Today-Dispatch & Bayside Gazette each week & online at octodaydispatch.com & baysideoc.com
MARKETPLACE HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
RENTALS
ROOMMATES
COMMERCIAL
SERVICES
EXPERIENCED AUTOMOTIVE PARTS ADVISOR Ocean Pines, MD Busy, established Automotive & Marine Parts Store is looking for an Experienced Parts Advisor to join our team. If you have strong automotive parts knowledge, enjoy helping customers, and are looking for a stable, long-term position, we want to hear from you! Competitive Pay - Benefits Employee - Friends & Family Discounts Established, Busy Location Parts experience required. Call 302-228-2353
NOW HIRING ASSISTANT BOOKKEEPER Busy automotive office in the Ocean View/ Clarksville area Requirements: • Microsoft Excel experience • Basic bookkeeping experience • Dependable and detail-oriented • QuickBooks and payroll experience a plus In-office position - no remote work Call 302-228-2353 to apply.
WINTER RENTAL 2BR, 1BA, Small Condo. 5th Street, 1 block to the boards. Absolutely No smoking/pets. $900/mo. + utils. 1-month sec. dep. req. Oct. 10-April 10th. OCMD. Text 410-952-5234
ROOM FOR RENT Fully furnished, large, clean, private room. Full house privileges. $900 per mo., util’s included. $400 sec. dep. Call 443-880-2317.
Industrial Space Yard and Storage Shed. Approx. 10x25+/Route 90/Bishopville. Call 443-497-4200
REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE
WINTER RENTAL Carousel 2BR, 2BA. $1250/month plus electric. Starts Nov. 1-April 30. 301-437-2799
11 Seafarer Lane in North Ocean Pines, MD for only $474,900. Three bedroom and 2 full bath home, fully furnished. Great for a starter home or beach getaway. Wooded lot with a lot of privacy, includes a hot tub and firepit. Large 1-car garage with paved driveway for 6+ cars. Owner anxious to sell, come see and make a deal. Keller Williams Delmarva North, Julie Stefan @ 410-800-7915 or office 302-360-0300
OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT Looking for space, comfort and great views? Spacious, climatecontrolled office available, with use of conference room and reception area, in a modern, wellmaintained building in prime Ocean City location. Call 410-524-3440 for appointment.
Burcom General Contractor Adding value to your biggest investment every step of the way. We do: - Power washing - Drywall - Painting Caulking - Carpentry - Minor roof repairs … and more. We don’t rest until the job is done right. For a free estimate, efficient response and service with a smile, call us today on 410-845-8394 or go to our website at www.burcomgc.com
JOLLY ROGER Small Engine Mechanic & Ride Maintenance. (Must have mechanical knowledge) Technical Support & Installation (Entry level with knowledge of network systems) SEASONAL HELP: Cashiers, Waterpark Attendants, Lifeguards, Ride Operators Wage based on experience. Benefits available. 410-289-4902
NOW HIRING Year-Round Cook, Steamers, Carryout Staff, Assistant Manager To apply, go to finshospitality.com/career
AMERICAN LEGION PT/YR COOKS Dependable, reliable BOOKKEEPER Part-time, familiar with Quickbooks on-line. Apply within. American Legion Post 166, 2308 Philadelphia Avenue, OC, MD 21842 410-289-3166 MAINTENANCE WORKER Harbour Island Condo Association 14th Street, Ocean City Seeking a reliable Maintenance Worker for general property maintenance. Hours available: • 9:00 AM-2:00 PM, Monday-Sunday • 3:00 PM-8:00 PM, Monday-Sunday • 7 day a week • Year around A great opportunity for a retiree looking for flexible, part-time work. Competitive pay. For more information, contact Jimmer at 240-298-0365
Classifieds NOW HIRING!! Production Crew
410-723-6397 By Monday,
for our WOC kitchen facility Up to $20/hr. Apply online at: www.delmarvadd.com
5 p.m.
Join the Sea Colony East Maintenance Team! Now hiring high rise condominium/full time building maintenance techs. Great Benefit plan/paid time off! Apply online at troon.com/careers - company location Sea Colony Assoc East Email bethann.steele@seacolony.com Call 302-541-8831 for an interview
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 Seeking Year-Round Rentals! Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555. OCEANVIEW RENTAL BIKE WEEK, OCEANS CALLING, COUNTRY CALLING NEWLY AVAILABLE 2BR, 2BA, SLEEPS 6 38TH ST AND THE BEACH Great location, next door to Castle in the Sand, walk to Concerts, close to restaurants, convention center etc… 443-880-8885 or view and book: SeaLaVie https://book.vuestay.com/ ocean-city-bright-beachhome-near-the-boardwalkwi-b46jo9 WINTER RENTAL 2BR, 1BA 6 month lease, Start Oct. $1,000 per mo. + elec. Call Steve, leave message 410-251-3412 WINTER RENTAL North OC, 1BR, 1BA Condo, 3rd Flr., walk-up. Furnished, W/D, Parking, Walking distance to restaurants. $1,100 per mo. + sec. dep. & utilities. Incl. WiFi. 412-965-4079
Extended Spring & Summer Stays Avail.
COMMERCIAL COMMERCIAL
2 Office/Retail Spaces available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft. and 1728 sq. ft. Call 443-497-4200
Classifieds 410-723-6397
SERVICES
LARRY’S HANDYMAN SERVICES No job too small, windows, entrance doors, interior doors, storm doors, shower doors, drywall repairs and paint, laminate floors, interior paint. Over 40 years of carpentry experience. Please call Larry, 410-251-9066 Larryandkim1954@ gmail.com
HUNTING ACCESS WANTED Responsible hunter seeking permission to hunt private property during season. Traditional Archery equipment only. Respectful of land and property. Willing to pay for seasonal hunting access. Call 443-614-1020.
WANT TO BUY WANT TO BUY
I BUY ALBUMS! 410-430-5349
Advertise in MDDC 410-723-6397
CLASSIFIED AD NETWORK Serving the Newspapers of Maryland, Delaware and the District of Columbia since 1908.
MARYLAND STATEWIDE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING NETWORK SERVICES DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-855-337-5228 www.dental50plus.com/ MDDC #6258
Utililites Included CONTACT US AT burgundyinn@gmail.com 410-289-8581
Run your business card in our SERVICE DIRECTORY CALL 410-723-6397 for pricing!
SERVICES
HUNTING ACCESS HUNTING ACCESS
FOR SALE Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-855-993-0969 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move. MISC. FOR SALE Get Boost Infinite! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 855-977-5719
MISC. FOR SALE Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 On-Demand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-855-407-6870 REAL ESTATE We Buy Houses for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-866-541-7929
Advertise in MDDC 410-723-6397
It’s not too early to advertise your winter rentals.
GET IT RENTED HERE! 410-723-6397 www.octodaydispatch.com www.baysideoc.com
OC Today-Dispatch
www.octodaydispatch.com Order YOur Classifieds Online!
• Convenient • Quick • No Waiting, No Calls • Days, Nights & Weekends
PAGE 56
OC Today-Dispatch
FOR SALE
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
FOR SALE
Wheelchair. Never used. Retails at $169, asking $100. 802-291-0488
YARD SALE YARD SALE Bike Week Yard Sale!!! Tools, Biker Stickers, Marbles, Households, Crafts, Non & Sports Cards, Atari Game, Leather Jackets, Jewelry, Pictures & Lots of Cool Items!!! 8am-? 11821 Grays Corner Rd., Berlin, MD 21811 GLENRIDDLE COMMUNITY YARD SALE Saturday, 9/26, 8am-12pm “Moving On” Sale Sat., 9/12, Sun., 9/13 Sat., 9/19 & Sun., 9/20 8am-‘til? Collectibles, designer clothes, furniture, high end items at reasonable prices. 8 Nottingham Lane, Southgate OP
$4,500.00
VEHICLES FOR SALE - 1991 CORVETTE 6 SPEED MANUAL, MD INSPECTION $19,000 ~ CONTACT 443-664-8832
BOATS/PWC BOATS/PWC PONTOON FOR SALE 2023 Viaggio, 18’ Pontoon w/Trailer, Yamaha 90 Engine, 50 hours run time, 2 yr. remaining warranty. Docked in West OC. $36,000. Contact 717-428-2121.
BOAT STORAGE BOAT STORAGE WINTER BOAT STORAGE Across from Casino Call Steve, leave message 410-251-3412 Classifieds 410-723-6397
Classifieds appear in OC Today-Dispatch & Bayside Gazette each week and online at www.octodaydispatch.com and baysideoc.com
OC Today-Dispatch
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
PAGE 57
DIRECTORY BLINDS / SHADES
CARPET CLEANING
CLEANING SERVICES
Pure
CLEANING SERVICES
RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • RENTALS • Move In-Out Clean • Standard Clean • Post Construction • Light Yard Clean Clean • Home Organization • Handyman Service • Deep Clean
443-856-8577 DinonguT@gmail.com
a clean that makes the difference HANDYMAN SERVICES
RISH A RBEACHMAN PHANDY THE
Exterior Home Repairs
“WE DO IT ALL” • Roofing Repairs • Rain Gutters • Roof Cleaning • Gutter Guards
• Screening • Painting
• Staining • Caulking
• Gutter Cleaning & Powerwashing •
HANDYMAN
TRADITIONAL HANDYMAN SERVICES MHIC #127296
SPRING CLEANUPS & MOWING
BATHROOM / KITCHEN WINDOW & DOORS INTERIOR / EXTERIOR CARPENTRY
PAINTING FLOORING SMALL JOBS & MORE CALL 410-999-4998
• Deck Repairs •
Licensed • Bonded • Insured • MHIC 17433 Phil Parrish
“A Family Tradition Since 1935”
410-893-9707
HOME HOME IMPROVEMENT IMPROVEMENT
HOME IMPROVEMENT
For All Your Construction Needs!
EVANS BROTHERS
Cox Building & Remodeling E. Chuck Cox
Home: 410-641-4304 Cell: 443-783-3972 stickframe@aol.com
HOME HOME IMPROVEMENT IMPROVEMENT
FROM FORM TO FINISH, LLC. • Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling • Finish Carpentry • Tile • Painting • Concrete Finishing Ben Armes, Owner/Operator
HOME IMPROVEMENT
US Veterans Administration Approved Contractor
11312 Manklin Creek, Rd., Ocean Pines, MD ~ Call or Stop in Today!
(410) 208-1518 • (410) 982-8368 pipelinecontracting.net • info@pipelinecontracting.net MDHIC # 107489 • DE # 2014100304 • Insured & Licensed
HOME IMPROVEMENT roofing
Hall’s Remodeling & Renovations
Custom Built Homes • Additions/Club Basements Kitchen & Bath Remodels • Roofs Custom Decks/Fences • Power Washing Painting • Pavers • Concrete MHIC #40933
Tony Campo / Dave Harmon
“One stop shop for Home Improvement”
Home Improvement Design & Bertch Cabinet Retail
HOME IMPROVEMENTS IMPROVEMENT HOME
MHIC #52065
HOME IMPROVEMENT IMPROVEMENT HOME
• Cabinets & Countertop • Flooring & Tile • Kitchen & Bath Remodeling • Residential & Commercial • Servicing Maryland & • General Carpentry & Delaware Beaches Painting
MHIC#95214
FREE Estimates • Licensed And Insured
HOME IMPROVEMENT
Contracting, LLC
410.713.8599
Decks / Screen Rooms / Wood / Composite Windows / Siding Bathroom / Kitchen Remodels Flooring Hardwood / LVP Ceramic Tiles
Parkville, MD 21234 • 410-977-2353 TCContractor64@gmail.com
Home Improvement Services Company
* NOW OFFERING * DISPOSAL ROLLOFF SERVICE
• Licensed and Fully Insured • Free Estimates • Locally Owned • Cleaning Specials • Roofing • Maintenance
410-984-4938
503-730-0553 Licensed & Insured
PipeLine
Complete Home Improvement Contractor
Quick Reliable Service 7 Days A Week Clean Up Crews Available • 15 & 20 Yard
Pat Parrish
Licensed & Insured VA # 2705 101009A MD MHIC # 92091 MD MHBR # 5658 DE # 2024942925
HOME IMPROVEMENT
Specializing in Additions, Kitchens, Baths and All Types of Custom Remodeling.
Time to schedule and complete before Memorial Day!
We accept MC/Visa Ken Walsh 301-776-7249 • (410) 641-3762
HOME, LAWN & PATIO SERVICES
OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 58
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
DIRECTORY LANDSCAPING
LANDSCAPING
Lawncare, Landscaping & Hardscapes S
ho
• Spring Cleanup • Brush Removal • Hauling • Mulch • Planting • Driveway Seal Coating • Patio & Walkway • Custom Landscape
re s c a p e
s
Atlantic Landscaping and More
LANDSCAPING
Property Management • Lawn Care Gutter Cleaning • Shrub Trimming • Power Washing Leaf Removal • Hauling Services • Painting Stone & Gravel • Mulching • Cleaning • Trailer Storage Shed Demolition • Stump Grinding • Dump Trailer Rental House/Shed/Garage Clean-outs • Home Watch Service Pet Sitting/Dog Walking & More Call or Text for Free Estimates & Questions!
LANDSCAPING • IRRIGATION HARDSCAPING • FREE ESTIMATES Full Service/Yearly Maintenance Contracts Available
LOCKSMITH
MEN’S HAIR SERVICES
MOVERS
PAINTING
PAINTING • CUSTOM PAINTING • DRYWALL REPAIRS • WALLPAPER REMOVED • DECK & HOUSE STAINING Painting & Powerwashing • ALWAYS PROMPT SERVICE Interior & Exterior
410-713-9159 Zelle Accepted
443-783-2224 • edgarcjr@aol.com
FREE ESTIMATES
MHIC #12398
410-430-7543
MDA #30202
FLASH OC LOCKOUT Auto & Home Lockout Service OPEN 24 / 7 Lockouts
Jumps
Gas Delivery
443 . 664 . 2650
www.Facebook.com/OCFlashLocksmith MVA LICENSED
Zimmerman & Son LLC Serving Delmarva for Over 35 Years Licensed & Insured
Free Estimates
10% Discount with this ad.
NOW ACCEPTING CREDIT CARDS!
Bill Zimmerman cell 443-373-4539
PLUMBING
We do it all from ground work to rough in to final trim & fixtures.
Plumbing and Gas, LLC
PLUMBING
ROOFING & SIDING
We Install:
Your Roofing, Siding & Home Improvement Specialist Since 1989
Winterization Packages • Repairs
ROOFING • SIDING • DURADEK • WINDOWS • GUTTERS Mike Moesle 410-629-1573, Fax: 410-629-1946
Faucets/Sinks • Showers/Tubs/Toilets Water Heaters • Water/Sewer Lines
MD 62495 • DE 13060 • Insured
9240 Peerless Rd. • Bishopville, MD mmoesle@shoresidingmd.com • www.shoresidingmd.com
CALL FOR ANY OF YOUR PLUMBING OR GAS NEEDS 410-430-3490 • LMSPlumbingandgas.com
STORAGE STORAGE
*Licensed in MD, DE &VA
TAX RESOLUTION / CREDIT SERVICES
AMA Consulting & Business Svcs, Inc We Solve Your Problems
Mae Phillips
Across from Casino
ROOFING
(434) 382-8920 11806 Sheppards Crossing Road Whaleyville, MD 21874 amaconsultingandbusiness@gmail.com www.amaconsultingbusiness.com
VEHICLE T TA AG & TITLE TAG
TA T AG & TITLE T SER RV VIICE
No W Waaitt • W Waalk-In • No Apppointment Necessarryy Mon-Sat 9am - 5:30pm 5
Racetrack Auto A 11740 Worcester Hwy. Shhowell, MD 21862 410-352-50070 (Located on Rt. 113 - 1 min. Nortth of Racetrack Road)
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026 Aldridge Pite LLP 6001 Executive Blvd., Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20852 301-961-6555
SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE
OF REAL PROPERTY AND ANY IMPROVEMENTS THEREON 4 WINDJAMMER ROAD BERLIN, MD 21811 Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust dated July 21, 2022, recorded in Liber 8432, Folio 216 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, with an original principal balance of $705,000.00, 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 22, 2026 AT 4:00 PM ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND, together with any buildings or improvements thereon located in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The property, and any improvements thereon, will be sold in an "as is" condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranty of any kind. Terms of Sale: A deposit of $35,000 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
OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices 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. 383429-1) Andrew J. Brenner, et al, Substitute Trustees
OCD-9/3/3t _________________________________
sponsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their BID’s. The Town is not responsible for the content of any BID Document received through any third-party service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed BID Documents. A Pre-BID Meeting will be held on TUESDAY, AUGUST 11TH, 2026 AT 10:00AM EST, AT THE OCEAN CITY RACQUET CENTER, 104 61ST STREET, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842. The Last Day for Questions will be on TUESDAY, AUGUST 25TH, 2026 AT 4:00PM EST. Addendum will be posted by close of business on WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 26TH, 2026. Sealed BID Documents are due no later than MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 28TH, 2026, BY 10:00AM EST. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION, ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29TH, 2026, AT 1:00PM EST. BID’s are to be submitted to the Mayor and City Council, Attention: City Clerk; Room 230, 301 North Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (Ocean City Racquet Center Renovation) must be noted on the outside of the package. Late BID Documents will not be accepted. Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation. Matt Perry Procurement Manager Town of Ocean City, Maryland OCD-7/30/9t _________________________________ B. RANDALL COATES ESQ COATES, COATES, & COATES 204 WEST GREEN STREET P O BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863
NOTICE
Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland
BID SOLICITATION – B02-27 Ocean City Racquet Center Renovation
The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking BID’s from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Ocean City Racquet Center Renovation and for said work to conform with the BID Documents. BID Documents for the Ocean City Racquet Center Renovation may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Leonard at dleonard@oceancitymd.gov, or by calling (410) 723-6643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are re-
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of MONNA VAN ESS Estate No. 21234 Notice is given that CAROLYN MARIE VAN ESS whose address is 703 MARKET ST POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851-1101 was on AUGUST 20, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MONNA VAN ESS who died on MARCH 01, 2024 with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 20th day of FEBRUARY, 2027. All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 20th day of FEBRUARY, 2027. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned per-
PAGE 59 sonal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-8/27/3t _________________________________
Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland
BID SOLICITATION
B03-27 – Northside Park Living Shoreline The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking BID’s from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Northside Park Living Shoreline and for said work to conform with the BID Documents. BID Documents for the Northside Park Living Shoreline may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Leonard at dleonard@oceancitymd.gov, or by calling (410) 723-6643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their BID’s. The Town is not responsible for the content of any BID Document received through any third-party service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed BID Documents. A Pre-BID Meeting will be held on THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3RD, 2026 AT 10:00AM EST, AT THE NORTHSIDE PARK COMMUNITY ROOM, 200 125TH STREET, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842. The Last Day for Questions will be on THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17TH, 2026 AT 4:00PM EST. Addendum will be posted by close of business on FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2026. Sealed BID Documents are due no later than FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9TH, 2026, BY 10:00AM EST. BID submissions will be opened, read
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aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION, ON TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13TH, 2026, AT 1:00PM EST. BID’s are to be submitted to the Mayor and City Council, Attention: City Clerk; Room 230, 301 North Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (Northside Park Living Shoreline) must be noted on the outside of the package. Late BID Documents will not be accepted. Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation. Matt Perry Procurement Manager Town of Ocean City, Maryland OCD-8/27/7t _________________________________ RYAN E VALENTINE ESQ SHAFFER LAW OFFICE 11033 CATHELL RD BERLIN, MD 21811-9328
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of BARBARA JOAN SHREEVE Estate No. 21231 Notice is given that LYDIA REBECCA EGOLF whose address is 3320 WILD CHERRY RD WINDSOR MILL, MD 21244-2907; EMILY ELIZABETH SHREEVE whose address is 103 HIGH SHERIFF TRL BERLIN, MD 21811-2046 were on AUGUST 24, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of BARBARA JOAN SHREEVE who died on JULY 23, 2026 with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 24th day of FEBRUARY, 2027. All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 24th day of FEBRUARY, 2027. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on o before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of
Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-8/27/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES ESTATE NO. 21233 NOTICE IS GIVEN that the CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT of FAIRFAX COUNTY, VIRGINIA appointed CHARLES E. PETITT III whose address is 11708 MALLARD RD., LORTON, VA 22079-4113 as the EXECUTOR of the Estate of STELLA MAE PETITT who died on MAY 17, 2026 domiciled in VIRGINIA, USA. The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is MARY DILL whose address is 39 COLONIAL DR., LINTHICUM HEIGHTS, MD 21090-1611. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: WORCESTER. All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred. TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-8/27/3t _________________________________ MICHAEL B MATHERS ESQ DOUSEWEBB, WILBUR, MATHERS ILLUMINATI & LUKAS, LLP PO BOX 910 SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of CHRISTINE L AMES Estate No. 21241 Notice is given that JESSICA M NYMAN whose address is 6420 JULIE ANN DR HANOVER, MD 21076-2008 was on AUGUST 24, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of CHRISTINE L AMES who died on JULY 07, 2026 with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal rep-
resentative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 24th day of FEBRUARY, 2027. All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 24th day of FEBRUARY, 2027. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-8/27/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR AGRICULTURAL EASEMENT ACQUISITION WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS The purpose of this public hearing is to hear comments on petitions to sell an agricultural easement to the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation (MALPF) on the following properties in Worcester County: 1. Beauchamp, Map 99, Parcel 6, 2007 New Bridge Road, 55 acres 2. Beauchamp, Map 85, Parcel 99, Stockton Road, 75 acres 3. Carmean, TM 54, Parcel 18, 6083 Snow Hill Road, 144.5 acres 4. Deuberry, TM 48, Parcel 51, Porters Crossing Road, 82.42 acres 5. Glad Mar Farms, Inc., Map 69, Parcel 15 and Map 77, Parcel 6A (3 acres withheld), Whitesburg Road, 129.71 acres 6. Gravenor, Map 63, Parcel 84, 4915 Pennewell Road, 20.306 acres 7. Maddux, Map 91, Parcel 59, New Bridge Road, 144.92 acres (reapplication) 8. Sterling, Map 100, Parcel 30, Payne/Johnson Roads; 73.52 acres 9. Wallace/Hargis, Map 72, Parcel 50, 4308 Paw Paw Creek Road, 205.8 acres 10. Watson Powell Land Holdings, Map 56, Parcel 18, Blake Road, 275.74 acres 11. Watson Powell Land Holdings, Map 56, Parcel 83, Blake Road, 163.02 acres PUBLIC HEARING TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2026 at 10:40 A.M. Commissioners’ Meeting Room,
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026 Room 1101 Government Center One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863 Additional information is available for review at the Department of Environmental Programs, Worcester County Government Center during regular business hours of 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. Questions may be directed to Katherine Munson, Planning Manager, by calling (410) 632-1220, extension 1302 or email at kmunson@co.worcester.md.us THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OCD-9/3/2t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF PUBLIC HEARING PROPOSED RE-DESIGNATION OF BERLIN ENTERPRISE ZONE WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND The County Commissioners of Worcester County, Maryland will conduct a Public Hearing to accept comments regarding a proposed application to the Maryland Department of Commerce to designate certain areas of Berlin, Maryland as an Enterprise Zone. The objective of the Enterprise Zones Program is to focus local and State resources on the encouragement of economic growth in economically distressed areas and employment of the chronically unemployed in the State. Primary benefits to businesses locating or expanding their operations in an Enterprise Zone include real property tax credits for 10-years after the improvements and income tax credits for up to 3-years for wages paid to new employees. A Public Hearing will be held at the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Room 1101 – Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at 10:35 AM. Copies of information regarding the proposed Enterprise Zone and Zone maps are available at the County Office of Economic Development, 107 West Green Street, Snow Hill, Maryland (Phone: 410-6323112) during regular business hours. THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OCD-9/3/2t _________________________________ BRIAN PETER COSBY NILES, BARTON & WILMER, LLP 12417 OCEAN GATEWAY #B-13 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of TIMOTHY ALLEN SIMPSON Estate No. 21244 Notice is given that SAMANTHA LITTLETON whose address is 9330 KITTS BRANCH RD BERLIN, MD 218113523 was on AUGUST 25, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of TIMOTHY ALLEN SIMPSON who died on JULY 03, 2026 without a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026 the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 25th day of FEBRUARY, 2027. All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 25th day of FEBRUARY, 2027. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-9/3/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21213 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF AARON BROADWATER JACOBS Notice is given that Romona Stephens, 2462 Glebe Ave., Bronx, NY 10461-3130, was on August 26, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Aaron Broadwater Jacobs who died on June 26, 2026, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 26th day of February, 2027. All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 26th day of February, 2027. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal
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OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices 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. Romona Stephens 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 03, 2026 OCD-9/3/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of VICKI JANE CYMEK Estate No. 21240 Notice is given that KIMBERLY C. FREY whose address is 31483 RIVER DR., OCEAN VIEW, DE 19970-3879 was on AUGUST 24, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of VICKI JANE CYMEK who died on JANUARY 23, 2026 with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 24th day of FEBRUARY, 2027. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 24th day of FEBRUARY, 2027. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County
ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-9/3/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of DAVID F. NOYES Estate No. 21238 Notice is given that DIANE GEORGOV whose address is 103 PARTRIDGE WAY, LANDENBERG, PA 19350-1567 was on AUGUST 24, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of DAVID F. NOYES who died on AUGUST 11, 2026 with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 24th day of FEBRUARY, 2027. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 24th day of FEBRUARY, 2027. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-9/3/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of JAMES EDWARD SAVAGE Estate No. 21247 Notice is given that PATRICIA E. TEMPLE whose address is 32758 CEDAR DR., MILLVILLE, DE 19967-6919 was on AUGUST 26, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JAMES EDWARD SAVAGE who died on FEBRUARY 11, 2026 without a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or
by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 26th day of FEBRUARY, 2027. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 26th day of FEBRUARY, 2027. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-9/3/3t _________________________________ CHARLES T. CAPUTE ESQ. MCALLISTER, DE TAR, SHOWALTER & WALKER LLC 100 N. WEST STREET EASTON, MD 21601-2710
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21245 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MARGARET ANN WARFIELD Notice is given that Ester Claire Reynolds, 8939 Ironshire Station Rd., Berlin, MD 21811-2927; Robert Edwin Warfield Jr., 115 Shallowford Rd., Greenville, SC 29607-3311, was on August 25, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Margaret Ann Warfield who died on July 18, 2026, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 25th day of February, 2027. All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 25th day of February, 2027. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned per-
PAGE 62 sonal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. Esther Claire Reynolds Robert Edwin Warfield 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: September 3, 2026 OCD-9/3/3t _________________________________
OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices AIRPORT, AIRPORT TERMINAL, BERLIN, MARYLAND 21811. The Last Day for Questions will be on THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24TH, 2026 AT 4:00PM EST. Addendum will be posted by close of business on FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2026. Sealed BID Documents are due no later than FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9TH, 2026, BY 10:00AM EST. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION, ON TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13TH, 2026, AT 1:00PM EST. BID’s are to be submitted to the Mayor and City Council, Attention: City Clerk; Room 230, 301 North Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (Ocean City Municipal Airport Terminal Siding Replacement) must be noted on the outside of the package. Late BID Documents will not be accepted. Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation. Matt Perry, CMPO Procurement Manager Town of Ocean City, Maryland OCD-9/3/5t _________________________________ B. RANDALL COATES ESQ COATES, COATES, & COATES 204 WEST GREEN STREET P O BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863 SMALL ESTATE
NOTICE
Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland
BID SOLICITATION
B04-27 – Ocean City Municipal Airport Terminal Siding Replacement The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking BID’s from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Ocean City Municipal Airport Terminal Siding Replacement and for said work to conform with the BID Documents. BID Documents for the Ocean City Municipal Airport Terminal Siding Replacement 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) 7236643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/ procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their BID’s. The Town is not responsible for the content of any BID Document received through any third-party service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed BID Documents. A Pre-BID Meeting will be held on THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10TH, 2026 AT 10:00AM EST, AT THE OCEAN CITY MUNICIPAL
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of AUDREY HILDREY WATERS Estate No. 21258 Notice is given that EDNA VERLINE PURNELL MORTON whose address is 415 DIGHTON AVE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1011 was on SEPTEMBER 02, 2026 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of AUDREY HILDREY WATERS who died on AUGUST 11, 2026 with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this
published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claims will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-9/10/1t _________________________________ RACHEL B. HARRIS ESQ. P.O. BOX 62 POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851-0062
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21254 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF RONALD WAYNE DURHAM Notice is given that Mary Evelyn Durham, 839 Ocean Hwy., Pocomoke City, MD 21851-3011, was on August 31, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ronald Wayne Durham who died on August 19, 2026, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 28th day of February, 2027. All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 28th day of February, 2027. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. Mary Evelyn Durham 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
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026 Date of publication: September 10, 2026 OCD-9/10/3t _________________________________ 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 6, 2026, at 10:30 AM in the Worcester County Government Center, Room 1101, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland: Rezoning Case No. 452, filed by Hugh Cropper on behalf of KASA Holdings, LLC, property owner, for an amendment to the Official Zoning Maps to change approximately 1.66 acres of land located on the westerly side of Stephen Decatur Highway (MD Route 611) and the easterly side of Sinepuxent Road, West Ocean City, Tax Map 26, Parcel 340, in the Tenth Tax District of Worcester County, Maryland, from A-2 Agricultural District to C-2 General Commercial District. A copy of the file on Rezoning Case No. 452 and the Planning Commission’s recommendation, which will be entered into record at the public hearing, are available to view online at www.co.worcester.md.us or during normal business hours at the Department of Development, Review and Permitting, One West Market Street, Room 1201, Snow Hill, MD. THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OCD-9/10/2t _________________________________ WORCESTER COUNTY
NOTICE
OF PUBLIC HEARING The Worcester County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at 10:35 AM in the Worcester County Government Center, Room 1101, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland. The purpose of this hearing is to accept public comments regarding the draft 2026 Worcester County Comprehensive Plan. A copy of the proposed planning documents are available to view online at https://www.co.worcester.md.us/comprehensive-plan or during normal business hours at the Department of Development, Review and Permitting, One West Market Street, Room 1201, Snow Hill, MD. THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OCD-9/10/2t _________________________________ REGAN J. R. SMITH ESQ. WILLIAMS MOORE, L.L.P. 12800 HOSPITALITY WAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-9394
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21255 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MICHAEL L. QUILLIN
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026 AKA: MICHAEL LYNCH QUILLIN SR. Notice is given that Judy Wildy Quillin, 12933 Pond Rd., Ocean City, MD 21842-9736, was on September 01, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Michael L. Quillin who died on August 02, 2026, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 1st day of March, 2027. All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 1st day of March, 2027. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. Judy Wildy Quillin 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 10, 2026 OCD-9/10/3t _________________________________ JAMES E. CLUBB, JR., ESQ. 108 N. 8TH STREET OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842 Council of Unit Owners of Ocean Time Condominium, Inc. Plaintiff v. Lauren E. Bell Scott Bell et al. Defendants IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-26-000152
NOTICE
ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland this 2nd day of September, 2026, that the foreclosure sale of the properties mentioned in these proceedings,
PAGE 63
OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices made and reported by James E. Clubb, Jr., Trustee, be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before 5th day of October, 2026, provided a copy of this order be inserted in some weekly newspaper printed in Worcester County, Maryland once in each of three successive weeks, before 28th day of September, 2026. The Report of Sale filed in the above case states the amount of the sales to be as indicated below for the referenced time-share intervals: Timeshare Price Wk 4, #101 $50.00 Wk 7, #101 $50.00 Wk 22, #101 $250.00 Wk 47, #103 $50.00 Wk 22, #104 $250.00 Wk 38, #104 $50.00 Wk 46, #104 $50.00 Wk 35, #105 $50.00 Wk 48, #105 $50.00 Wk 33, #106 $100.00 Wk 3, #201 $50.00 Wk 17, #202 $50.00 Wk 51, #202 $50.00 Wk 16, #206 $50.00 Wk 23, #304 $2,950.00 Wk 24, #304 $100.00 Wk 28, #305 $3,100.00 Wk 8, #306 $50.00 Wk 20, #404 $50.00 Wk 36, #406 $50.00 Wk 1, #501 $50.00 Wk 17, #506 $50.00 Wk 36, #506 $50.00 Susan Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, Maryland True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-9/10/3t _________________________________
Proposals must follow the scope and form of this RFP. Incomplete proposals or those that do not address specific requirements or provide required information will be rejected. Proposals received after the due date will not be considered. Proposers accept all risks of late delivery of mailed submittals regardless of fault. One (1) original and three (3) copies, plus an electronic copy of the proposal must be submitted in a sealed envelope by the October 8, 2026 deadline. Detailed RFP documents can be obtained by contacting Sheryll Harrold (email: sharrold@gmbnet.com) at George, Miles and Buhr LLC, 206 West Main St., Salisbury MD, 21801, (410) 742-3115. This project is funded in part through a federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) administered by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). Build America, Buy America Act (BABA) requirements apply to this procurement. Minority, Women-owned, and Small Business Enterprises are encouraged to participate and submit proposals for this project and associated work. The Town of Willards is an Equal Opportunity Employer. No person shall, on the grounds of race, color, national origin, or sex, as provided by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be otherwise discriminated against under any of its federally funded programs or activities. All prices submitted in the Respondent’s proposal shall remain firm and valid for a minimum of 90 calendar days from the proposal due date. Mr. Erich L. A. Hess Council President OCD-9/10/1t _________________________________
INVITATION TO SUBMIT PROPOSALS The Town of Willards Town Hall 7344 Main Street Willards, MD 21874 (410) 835-8192
LEGAL NOTICE INVITATION REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS for Water Meters and Advanced Metering Infrastructure The Town of Willards hereafter called (“Town” or “Willards”), is soliciting this Request for Proposals (“RFP”) from qualified Vendors (“Proposers”) to furnish approximately 550 electronic water meters and associated Advanced Metering Infrastructure (“AMI”) for the Town’s use in accordance with specifications and requirements outlined in this RFP. RFP also includes furnishing and supplying the Town with five (5) portable automatic flushing hydrant assemblies. The Town will complete meter installation using Town forces and/or a locally procured contractor.
tations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their Proposals. The Town is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any third-party service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents. A Pre-Proposal Meeting will be held on TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15TH, 2026 AT 10:00AM EST, AT NORTHSIDE PARK, 200 125TH STREET, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842, for any questions concerning the Proposal Documents. A site survey shall immediately follow the Pre-Quote Meeting. Vendors interested in additional site survey(s), or Request(s) for Information subsequent to the Pre-Proposal Meeting, may submit such requests formally in writing to the Procurement Manager, who shall review each request on a case-by-case basis. The Last Day for Questions will be on TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29TH, 2026, AT 4:00PM EST. Addendum will be posted by close of business on WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30TH, 2026. Sealed Proposal Documents are due no later than THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15TH, 2026, BY 4:00PM EST. Proposal submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the PROCUREMENT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16TH, 2026, AT 10:00AM EST. Proposals are to be submitted to the Procurement Office located at 214 65th Street, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (P01-27 – Northside Park Lobby Floor Replacement) must be noted on the outside of the package. Late Proposal Documents will not be accepted. Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation. OCD-9/10/5t _________________________________
Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland
PROPOSAL SOLICITATION
P01-27 – Northside Park Lobby Floor Replacement
TOWN OF BERLIN, MARYLAND
NOTICE
OF A PUBLIC HEARING The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Northside Park Lobby Floor Replacement and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents. Proposal Documents for the Northside Park Lobby Floor Replacement 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 Solici-
ORDINANCE 2026-06 AN ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF BERLIN, MARYLAND, A MARYLAND MUNICIPAL CORPORATION, AMENDING CHAPTER 16, ENTITLED FIRE PREVENTION AND PROTECTION, ARTICLE II, ENTITLED OUTDOOR BURNING. This ordinance is scheduled for introduction and first reading on Monday, September 14, 2026, at 6:00 PM. A public hearing on the ordinance
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OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices
will be held on Monday, September 28, 2026, at 6:00 PM. Both meetings will take place during the Regular Session of the Mayor and Council at the Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Avenue, Berlin, MD 21811. The hearing is open to the public, and public testimony is encouraged. Persons with questions regarding this hearing may call 410-641-2770 for further information. OCD-9/10/2t _________________________________
the Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Avenue, Berlin, MD 21811. The hearing is open to the public, and public testimony is encouraged. Persons with questions regarding this hearing may call 410-641-2770 for further information. OCD-9/10/2t _________________________________
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION TOWN OF BERLIN, MARYLAND
NOTICE
OF A PUBLIC HEARING ORDINANCE 2026-07 AN ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF BERLIN, MARYLAND, A MARYLAND MUNICIPAL CORPORATION, AMENDING CHAPTER 108, ZONING, ARTICLE VIII, SUPPLEMENTAL DISTRICT REGULATIONS, BY ADDING A NEW SECTION, ENTITLED “ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS IN R1 AND R-2 ZONES” This ordinance is scheduled for introduction and first reading on Monday, September 14, 2026, at 6:00 PM. A public hearing on the ordinance will be held on Monday, September 28, 2026, at 6:00 PM. Both meetings will take place during the Regular Session of the Mayor and Council at
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110, Zoning, of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be conducted by the Planning and Zoning Commission in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on: TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2026 At 6:30 PM To consider amending Chapter 110, entitled Zoning, of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland be, and it is hereby amended by amending sections 110-2, 110-75, 110-275, 110-485, 110-515, 110-665, 110-695, 110-845, 110-861.4, and adding 110-888 to include and designate accessory dwelling units (ADUs) as a permitted use on any lot with an existing single-family detached dwelling unit and establish standards for the same. APPLICANT: PLANNING AND
Legal Advertising Call Pamela Green 410-723-6397, Fax: 410-723-6511 or E-mail: legals@octodaydispatch.com
ZONING COMMISSION (PZ FILE #26-14100001) No oral or written testimony will be accepted after the close of the public hearing. Public hearings that are not completed at one meeting may be continued without additional advertised notice provided the Commission Chairperson announces that the hearing will be continued and gives persons in attendance an opportunity to sign up for written notice of the additional hearing dates. For further information concerning this public hearing, please contact the Department of Planning and Community Development, Room 242, City Hall, 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842. Phone 410-289-8855. PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION JOSEPH P. WILSON, CHAIRPERSON MAUREEN HOWARTH, ESQ., ATTORNEY OCD-9/10/4t _________________________________
TOWN OF OCEAN CITY
CANDIDATE FILING DEADLINE
2026 Town of Ocean City Election For the Municipal Election to be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, for the mayoral seat and three council seats: Notice is hereby given that the candidate filing deadline is Friday, October 2, 2026. Candidacy applications and other required forms are available at the Office of the City Clerk, City Hall, 301 N. Baltimore Avenue, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For additional information, please contact 410-2898841 or email dchavis@oceancitymd.gov. Completed applications must be submitted by the specified deadline to be considered for candidacy. TOWN OF OCEAN CITY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF ELECTIONS OCD-9/10/1t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF PUBLIC HEARING BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS TOWN OF OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110 of the Code of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Zoning Ordinance for Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted by the Board of Zoning Appeals for
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026 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 24, 2026 AT 6:00 P.M. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an application has related to Section 110-94(2)(b) has been filed to request a special parking exception to waive five (5) off-street parking spaces so that an existing outdoor seating area of Bull on the Beach may be served by a proposed enclosed pergola. The Property is described as the Re-subdivided Lots of 1, 16, 17, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, Block 59, of the Original Oceanbay City Plat. It is further described as Tax Map 115, Parcel 1428A, and as being located on the southeast corner of Coastal Highway and 94th Street which is locally known as Bull on the Beach at 17 94th Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. APPLICANT: GGI BUILDS, INC. C/O RICH HERTZOG (BZA 2752 #26-09400015) AT 6:15 P.M. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an application related to Section 110-94(3)(b) has been filed to request a special yard exception for a proposed enclosed sunroom to be 7 feet from a rear property line, rather than the 15 feet as required by Code. The Property is described as Lot 12, Block J, of the Oceanbay City Plat. It is further described as being located on the west side of West Biscayne Drive and is locally known as 9203 West Biscayne Drive, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. APPLICANT: ALESSANDRO TACCONELI (BZA 2751 #2609400014) AT 6:30 P.M. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(3), Powers of the Code, an application related to Section 110-95(1)(a) has been filed to request (1) an after-the-fact variance of 0.6 feet from the 5-foot side yard setback requirement for an existing covered porch to be 4.4 feet from the side lot line; (2) an after-the-fact variance of 0.4 feet from the 5-foot side yard setback requirement for an existing dwelling to be 4.6 feet from a side lot line; and (3) an after-the-fact variance of 0.1 feet from the 5-foot side yard setback requirement for an existing dwelling to be 4.9 feet from the side lot line. The Property is described as Lot 1135, Section 3, of the Montego Bay Mobile Home Park Plat. It is further described as being located on the west side of Beachcomber Lane and is locally known as 179 Beachcomber Lane, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. APPLICANT: HUGH CROPPER IV, ESQUIRE, FOR SEAN AND PATRICIA CHENWORTH (BZA 2749 #26-09500003) 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-9/10/2t _________________________________
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
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OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 66
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
PHOTO COURTESY OF OCYACHTSHOTS.COM
EARLY ARRIVALS Bikes were seen arriving as early as last Sunday for this week’s OC Rock and Ride festival at the Inlet and Roland E. Powell Convention Center. Above this group was loving the warm and dry weather this week as they entered the Inlet parking lot. See pages 33 and 34 for more on the bike week events.
Sept. 10 - 17 DAY/TIME Fri-Mon 11am-4pm
ADDRESS
BR/BA
STYLE
Heron Harbour, 120th St., Bayside, Ocean City 1BR/2BR/3BR/4BR+ Condos, Towns & SF
PRICE
AGENT/AGENCY
-
Nanette Pavier/Holiday Real Estate
Mon-Fri 9am-4pm
12430 Old Bridge Rd., West OC
2BR/2BA
Single Family
from $279,750
Shelly Wilson/Salt Life Community
Friday 11am-1pm
12301 Jamaica Ave #351N, Ocean City
2BR/2BA
Condo
$499,900
Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty
Friday Noon-2pm
75 King Richard Rd, Ocean Pines
4BR/3.5BA
Single Family
$814,900
Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty
Friday 1-2:30pm
5 48th Street, Ocean City
5BR/4BA
Condo
$1,099,000
Shawn Kotwica/Coldwell Banker Realty
Friday 1:30-3:30pm
6201 Coastal Highway #806, Ocean City
4BR/3BA
Condo
$1,520,000
Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty
12353 Southhampton Dr, Lighthouse Sound
6BR/7.5BA
Single Family
$3,559,900 Greg Erdie/Beth Evans/BHHS PenFed Realty
Saturday 10am-Noon
24 Stacy Court, Ocean Pines
4BR/2.5BA
Single Family
$1,300,000
Katie Landon/Coldwell Banker Realty
Saturday 11am-1pm
21 Castle Drive, Ocean Pines
3BR/2BA
Single Family
$510,500
Power of 2 Team/Hileman Real Estate
Saturday 11am-1pm
14 Willow Way, Ocean Pines
3BR/2BA
Single Family
$394,500
Power of 2 Team/Hileman Real Estate
Saturday 11am-1pm
104 125th Street #203, Ocean City
2BR/2BA
Condo
$439,900
Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty
Saturday 11am-3pm
12430 Old Bridge Rd., West OC
2BR/2BA
Single Family
from $279,750
Shelly Wilson/Salt Life Community
Saturday Noon-2pm
12301 Jamaica Ave #351N, Ocean City
2BR/2BA
Condo
$499,900
Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty
Saturday 1-3pm
22 Capetown Road, Ocean Pines
4BR/2.5BA
Single Family
$419,999
Rob & Anne-Marie Bouse/RE/MAX Advantage Realty
Sunday 11:30am-1:30pm
104 125th Street #203, Ocean City
2BR/2BA
Condo
$439,900
Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty
Sunday Noon-2pm
35596 Gloucester Circle, Millsboro, DE
3 BR/2.5BA
Townhome
$305,000
Katie Landon/Coldwell Banker Realty
Sunday Noon-2pm
26740 Chatham Lane, Millsboro, DE
3BR/2.5BA
Townhome
$349,900
Katie Landon/Coldwell Banker Realty
Sunday Noon-2pm
26738 Chatham Lane, Millsboro, DE
3BR/2.5BA
Townhome
$347,500
Katie Landon/Coldwell Banker Realty
Friday 4-7pm
Presented free as a courtesy to Licensed REALTORS® who are regular OC Today-Dispatch & Bayside Gazette Advertisers. $10 for listing without advertisement.
OC Today-Dispatch
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
PAGE 67
Council approves budget changes By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Sept. 11, 2026) City leaders this week adopted several budget amendments within the fiscal year 2026 spending plan. On Tuesday, the Ocean City Council voted 5-0, with Councilman John Gehrig and Councilwoman Carol Proctor absent, to approve a series of changes in the FY26 budget. Those adjustments, first presented in July, will affect both revenues and expenses, as well as enterprise funds. “We have for second reading Ordinance 2026-19, to adopt FY26 budget amendment No. 2,” City Solicitor Heather Stansbury told the council this week. “This is as reviewed at the July 28 work session,” In July, Budget Manager Jennie Knapp came before the City Council to request several changes to the FY26 spending plan, which closed out on June 30. Those amendments included budgets that were above or below revenue and expense projections. Within the enterprise accounts, for example, convention center revenues increased $421,736, which offset an increase in operating expenses and reduced the city’s need to use $76,000 in fund balance. And at the airport, the city collected $228,565 in revenue from Globalinx, the company leasing
space at the facility for a transatlantic cable landing. Other revenues, including fuel sales and service charges and rent, decreased. Enterprise accounts also include the water, wastewater, and transportation funds, all of which recorded some budget changes. The transportation department, for example, received capital grants to purchase new buses, while recording additional revenues and decreased expenses. In the general fund, the budget recorded an overall increase of $5.1 million. That change, Knapp said, recognizes revenues that exceed the budgeted amount and a reduction in the use of prior year funds. On the revenue side, grants, donations, and interest on investments increased $2.9 million; income, highway user, and amusement tax increased $1.2 million; and service charges (fees), room licenses and building permits increased $1.5 million. The city recorded a $308,987 decrease in parking revenue, a $105,000 decrease in parking and tow fines, a $64,860 decrease in corporation and excise tax revenues, a $60,000 decrease from the cable TV franchise, and a $50,998 reduction in Winterfest revenues. The city also recorded a $6.13 million increase in expenditures, with the
bulk of the increase related to police overtime, take-home vehicles, and an Axon equipment contract. Other expense increases include $565,475 in vehicle repairs within solid waste and public works, $247,682 for Beach Patrol part-time and overtime, $240,000 in legal fees, and $196,532 in energy costs. Expense reductions, on the other hand, totaled $951,839. With revenue increases, expenditure reductions, and a decrease in transfers to the city’s transportation division, the amount of fund balance used in fiscal year 2026 will decrease $1.4 million from what was initially budgeted. However, $975,000 of that savings will fund the police take-home vehicle program. Other balances set to change include deferred ticket revenue the city received from the Oceans Calling festival, Country Calling festival and other concerts. That balance is expected to increase from $428,000 to $1.3 million. The city will use $771,267 from that account to cover concert advertising, Winterfest displays, special events, and more. A motion to adopt the changes on second reading passed in a 5-0 council vote this week. The finalized FY26 budget will be shared in the city’s annual report, which is presented each fall following an annual audit.
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REAL ESTATE MARKETPLACE CORNER LOT!!
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WALK TO THE BEACH! 13316 COLONIAL ROAD • MONTEGO BAY
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Corner lot in Caine Woods right across ICE ! PR UCED the street from D RE Gorman Park with Playgrounds, tennis & pickle ball. 3 Bedrooms, 2 full baths with a wideopen floor plan. Large Kitchen with plenty of cabinets for storage. Nice, enclosed Florida room off the Dining room. Walking distance to the beach and the City Bus. Come check out this property today. Sold Furnished For $495,750
Serving the Ocean City Community since 1971.
Welcome to the highly sought-after Montego Bay community in North Ocean City! Enjoy everything OCMD has to offer while owning this 3 bedroom 2 full bath home. Front Bedrooms have a Jack and Jill full bath. You will love the wide open floor plan. There is also a covered back porch for relaxing after a day at the beach or pool. This vibrant neighborhood offers the perfect blend of coastal charm and resort-style amenities. Located just blocks from the beach and a beach bus ride away to Ocean City's famed boardwalk. Sold Partially Furnished For $354,900 The Original Montego Bay Specialist Since 1971!
Larry Holdren Real Estate, Inc©
Larry Holdren Real Estate, Inc©
For More Information Call 800-252-2223 • 410-250-2700
For More Information Call 800-252-2223 • 410-250-2700
13901 Coastal Hwy., #8, Ocean City, MD
www.larryholdrenrealestate.net • email: ocmdhre@gmail.com
13901 Coastal Hwy., #8, Ocean City, MD
www.larryholdrenrealestate.net • email: ocmdhre@gmail.com
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION!! GREAT LOCATION with 2 BOAT SLIPS & A BOATLIFT Rare opportunity to own a Waterfront home on one of the widest canals in Ocean City with only a 2-3 block walk to the beach! Also, just a short walk to Ocean City's 58-Acre Northside Park, shopping, dining & the bus stop. Community amenities include 2 inground swimming pools, 2 tennis courts, 9-hole mini-golf course, shuffleboard court, pickle ball court, 8- acre wildlife sanctuary/park area with large pond, blacktop walking/jogging trail & bayfront boardwalk with 3 fishing/crabbing piers. This 3 BR, 2.5 BA home is move-in ready & is being sold mostly furnished. Both full bathrooms have been updated with new ceramic showers. On the exterior this home features an outside deck, screened porch, a pier, a 7,000 lbs. remote control boatlift, jet ski lift & lots of storage. Call now to schedule your private showing. Pontoon Boat conveys with property...1999 24ft. Sweetwater w/Honda 90 hp motor. Low HOA fee of $415.00/year!! NOW $739,900
Call Bill Rothstein 800-745-5988 • 443-280-2530 montegobayrealty@aol.com
112 SEA BREEZE DRIVE MONTEGO BAY OCEAN CITY
12905 Coastal Hwy • Ocean City, MD www.montegobayrealty.com
Only 2 blocks to the beach! Less than a block to the community amenities, multiple restaurants/bars, shopping and the bus stop. This 3 bed/2 bath home is located on a canal in the highly sought after community of Montego Bay in North OC. Home features a private dock/pier/2 boat slips and a boatlift. The home has upgraded kitchen, bathrooms, flooring, and it is being sold fully furnished. Community amenities include 2 inground swimming pools, 1 kiddie pool, 2 tennis courts, pickle ball courts, a shuffleboard court, a 9 hole mini-golf course, a bayfront boardwalk with 3 fishing/crabbing piers, and an 8 acre wildlife sanctuary that has a pond with a blacktop walking/jogging path...all for a low HOA fee of $415.00 a year!!
NOW $669,900 Call Bill Rothstein 800-745-5988 • 443-280-2530 montegobayrealty@aol.com
HUGE PRICE REDUCTION
13009 ATLANTIC BLVD MONTEGO BAY OCEAN CITY
12905 Coastal Hwy • Ocean City, MD www.montegobayrealty.com
PAGE 68
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
Historic district talks business design work By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Sept. 10, 2026) The Berlin Historic District Commission approved window decals installed at the downtown Dream Weaver location and the future Breakfast at Tiffany’s business following a discussion last week about how the decals were applied to the building. Tiffany Lackner, who owns the soon-to-be-opened Breakfast at Tiffany’s, as well as Dream Weaver with her husband, Sean Lackner, appeared before Berlin’s Historic District Commission last week to discuss the installation of white window trim decals at the businesses. Lackner said she previously brought the design for the decals before the commission when discussing Breakfast at Tiffany’s. It was under-
stood at that time that the trim would be applied to the window on the interior side. After ordering the product, however, Lackner said she was advised that the decals needed a UV protective coating. The decals were ultimately installed on the outside of the windows, rather than the inside as originally understood. “I had ordered the sticker and the design, which is a white window trim on every window for the building,” Lackner told the commission last week. “And my son’s friend had called me the week of application and he had said, ‘do you want UV protection on it?’ I said ‘yes.’ It was understood that it was going to be put inside. But [we didn’t know] the change in UV protection means it has to be an exterior sticker. We got him in the store. We left to go to
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Dream Weaver in Ocean City, we got back and it was done on the outside.” Commissioner Carol Rose noted that the exterior installation should not be a problem, if that is the correct way to apply the decal. “If the product is made to be on the outside and that’s what you didn’t know … I honestly appreciate you coming … but I honestly don’t have a problem,” she said. Lackner also asked whether she would need commission approval to touch up the buildings’ paint. She said the paint would be an exact match to colors previously approved by the commission roughly a decade ago, when Dream Weaver initially opened. Berlin Planning Director Ryan Hardesty said the town’s code already provides some allowance for repairs in-kind and routine maintenance without requiring the work to come before the commission. She added that she would like to clarify that language as part of a future code revision. “I wanted to do a code revision so that any repairs in kind do not need to come here,” Hardesty said. “There actually is something in the code that says that…basically, anything inkind, any routine maintenance, they
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do not need to come here.” Lackner said the building simply needed a refresh while maintaining the existing colors and appearance. Commissioners praised the work, particularly the balance between the historic character of the building and the more contemporary design of Dream Weaver. HDC member Mary Moore said the white window treatment helped preserve an older, traditional appearance and praised Lackner for capturing the character of Berlin without making the businesses appear overly modern. “You have a very contemporary Dream Weaver shop, but you captured the traditional…[It’s] a wonderful ying yang,” Moore said. Lackner said she hopes to open Breakfast at Tiffany’s in October or November. The restaurant is expected to operate from approximately 6:45 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily, with one day each week offering breakfast-for-dinner hours. Lackner said she is also working with a farmer in Fruitland who is raising a specific breed of red hen to provide eggs for the restaurant. The commission unanimously approved the window decals as installed.
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SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 69
County postpones approval of latest Critical Area maps By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Sept. 11, 2026) One Worcester County landowner raised enough doubt about a proposed Critical Area boundary last week to halt adoption of new countywide maps more than two years in the making. The county commissioners voted unanimously to postpone adoption after a Sept. 1 public hearing that lasted nearly an hour, during which Hugh Cropper – a land-use attorney familiar to the commissioners – spoke on his own behalf rather than for a client. Cropper and his wife own five parcels along Assateague Road outside Berlin. The disputed boundary follows the headwaters of a Trappe Creek tributary running beneath the road. He said the proposed change would place about 50 of his 120 acres under tighter environmental and development restrictions. “It sure looks to me like the Critical Area Commission drew that line to wipe out my property,” Cropper said.
Cropper said he raised concerns earlier in the review process and requested an on-site inspection. County documents show state and county officials visited the property May 9, 2025. County staff confirmed that the Critical Area Commission later pulled the proposed boundary back approximately 1,800 feet. Cropper called the change an admission that the original line had been wrong by “six football fields.” Cropper argued that the tributary is a drainage ditch rather than tidal water. He said officials did not inspect the full waterway or measure how far the tide rises and falls before drawing the revised line. “I apologize that I feel like I’m getting a little adversarial,” Cropper said, “but this is my property.” Maryland established its Critical Area program in 1984 to protect the Chesapeake Bay and expanded it to include the Atlantic Coastal Bays in 2002. It generally encompasses land within 1,000 feet of tidal waters and wetlands, placing additional environmental and development rules on affected properties. The Critical Area designation covers about 680,000 acres statewide. See CRITICAL Page 70
BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Hugh Cropper, a Worcester County land use attorney, makes his case Sept. 1 before the County Commissioners about proposed Critical Area maps that would affect his own landholdings.
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By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer (Sept. 11, 2026) At the National Association of Realtors (NAR) 2026 Leadership Summit in Chicago, Illinois, Dr. Lawrence Yun, chief economist for NAR presented his Housing Market & Economic Outlook. The Coastal Association of Realtors sends its CEO, Bernie Flax, and incoming president each year to bring back valuable industry information. Below is part two of a summary on some of his key points: The Market Is Trying to Move From 4 Million to 5 Million Sales The industry’s challenge is getting annual existing-home sales back from approximately 4 million toward 5 million transactions. Sales have not meaningfully increased this year, but Yun emphasized something encouraging: the market has remained relatively stable despite rising mortgage rates. He asked the audience to consider what sales might look like if mortgage rates returned closer to the approximately 6% level seen earlier in the year. That suggests substantial housing demand remains beneath the surface. Affordability and financing
costs—not necessarily a lack of desire to purchase homes—continue to constrain buyers. Why Mortgage Rates Remain High Mortgage rates are closely tied to long-term bond yields, and Yun noted that long-term yields have moved substantially higher. He identified several forces contributing to this environment: Inflationary pressure, including energy and oil prices; Strong investment associated with artificial intelligence; labor-market constraints; and, large federal government borrowing and spending. Earlier expectations that the Federal Reserve might make multiple rate cuts have weakened considerably as inflation concerns have persisted. Yun said the near-term direction of mortgage rates may depend heavily on oil prices. If geopolitical conditions stabilize and energy prices decline, inflation could become more manageable and provide some relief to interest rates. At the same time, he stressed that several other forces—AI investment, labor constraints and government debt—are more structural and could keep long-term rates elevated. Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record for Keller Williams Realty Delmarva in Ocean City, MD.
Critical Area passage delayed Continued from Page 69 Approximately 33,000 acres, or 5% of the state total, lie within Worcester County. Cropper said he has no plans to develop the land and raised no objections to new boundaries affecting two other properties he owns. “I’m just saying,” he told the commissioners, “put it in the correct place.” After studying an enlarged map, Commissioner Jim Bunting, a land surveyor by trade, agreed that the proposed boundary had been drawn incorrectly. “That ditch is not tidal,” said Bunting (District 6, Bishopville). “This is just wrong. This needs to be changed.” Bob Mitchell, the county’s environmental programs director, defended the maps and the lengthy review process behind them. He said county and state officials had reviewed property records, elevation data, consultants’ reports, and disputed locations. “This isn’t overnight. This is not throwing darts,” Mitchell said. “There’s a lot of effort going into this.” Overall, the updated maps would remove a net 550 acres from the Crit-
ical Area countywide. Commissioner Joe Mitrecic said he was “not a hydraulic engineer” but believed water would fill a pond on Cropper’s property before pushing farther upstream. “I think there was a mistake made here,” Mitrecic said before moving to reject the maps and have that area examined again. Bunting seconded the motion. County Attorney Roscoe Leslie said the maps represented the culmination of a two-year process. If commissioners were unwilling to approve them, he recommended postponing the decision while county officials ask the state what options exist for changing the boundary. Following Leslie’s advice, Mitrecic amended his motion to postpone adoption while county officials consult the state. The amended motion passed. The county has until June 25, 2027, to approve the updated maps. After speaking at length, Cropper thanked the commissioners for hearing him out. “This is the most you’ve ever let me talk,” he said.
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 71
City approves second phase of lighting upgrades at park By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Sept. 11, 2026) Ocean City will proceed with a second round of lighting improvements at Northside Park. During Tuesday’s regular meeting, the City Council agreed to purchase new softball field lighting at Northside Park. The decision was part of Tuesday’s consent agenda, a collection of items approved in one vote. In a staff memo, Parks Superintendent Gary Collier said the purchase would be paid for with $300,000 placed in the fiscal year 2027 capital improvement plan. The project, he said, would replace existing lights with more energy-efficient and cost-effective LED fixtures. “The new LED system will provide improved lighting clarity, reduced energy consumption and maintenance costs, and reliable year-round use of the field after dusk,” he wrote. The project represents the second and final phase of lighting replacement at the softball field. In the first phase, completed last winter as part of the fiscal year 2026 capital improvement plan, lighting fixtures and controls were replaced on fields two and three. Looking ahead, recreation and parks staff this week put forward their recommendation to move forward with
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phase two, using the same company – Musco Sports Lighting – to complete the next round of lighting improvements. While the company’s estimate totaled $285,000, they recommended expenditure approval up to $300,000. “Using Musco products will ensure that all three softball fields, as well as the lit soccer field at NSP, have lighting systems designed by the same manufacturer, providing consistency and simplifying system management across the facility,” Collier wrote. The ongoing lighting project seeks to replace the park’s aging lights, which were installed back in 2004. The second round of improvements, approved in a 5-0 vote this week, will move forward through a contract with Keystone Purchasing Network, a national cooperative purchasing program that provides publicly procured and competitively bid products and services, typically at a better price. “In addition, the project may also be eligible for incentives through the Delmarva Power Small Business Program for qualifying upgrades,” Collier wrote. “While the 2027 initiative amount has not yet been released, the rebate is currently forecasted at approximately $21,600 upon project completion.”
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OC Today-Dispatch
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By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Sept. 11, 2026) Berlin officials will continue their work this month to establish a state-mandated policy authorizing the construction of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on properties with single-family detached homes. On Monday, Sept. 14, at 5 p.m., the Berlin Planning Commission, the mayor, and Town Council will meet for a work session to develop provisions for creating ADUs. The project follows a statewide law that supports the construction of ADUs and requires municipalities to create their own regulations by Oct. 1. The idea behind the endeavor, which became law in 2025, is that accessory dwelling units —apartmentlike structures detached from a property’s primary home — could provide additional affordable residency options. The Town of Berlin began work on its ADU guidelines earlier this year. Officials had conducted a work session in February, joined by the mayor and Town Council and the community’s planning commission. At that meeting, the group considered parking requirements, water and wastewater treatment consumption based on equivalent dwelling units (EDUs), short-term rental regulations, and size restrictions. County government allows ADUs between 500 and 900 square feet. However, Councilmember Shaneka Nichols said at the February work session that she would prefer for the town to reduce the maximum allow-
able dimensions. “I think the part that’s hard for me is Worcester County…can be vast and huge…I think 900 square feet, that’s a decent size for a first house,” she said at the time. “That’s big…if you’re truly using it as an accessory unit, what do you need 900 square feet for? Unless it’s an income property.” Nichols added that a more appropriate size for an ADU should land between 500 and 700 square feet. Parking was also addressed at the winter work session. Planning Commission Chair Matt Stoehr said Berlin’s residential parking study is outdated and that the municipality should solicit new data before mandating extra parking spaces. Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall said a new parking study may be impractical, since only a few residents will likely build these accessory units on their properties. Additionally, the group debated how ADUs would affect water and sewer capacity. Current town policy requires developers to pay an equivalent dwelling unit (EDU) fee of roughly $17,000 for new connections. Some suggested in February that this charge is too steep for smaller accessory spaces. To address this concern, one option discussed was charging a fractional EDU fee or reviewing water usage annually and adjusting fees as needed. February’s work session revealed that town officials agreed on several points: ADUs should not be used as short-term rentals, units should be within 100 feet of the main house, and they should match the style and height of the primary dwelling. The Sept. 14 work session will begin at 5 p.m. A public hearing on Berlin’s nailed-down ADU regulations is subsequently scheduled for Monday, Sept. 28.
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SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
Worcester library board seeks to fill upcoming vacancy By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Sept. 11, 2026) The Worcester County Library is seeking a new member to fill a vacancy on its board of trustees. With member Nancy Howard’s term ending in December, the Worcester County Library Board of Trustees is accepting applications for her replacement. The person chosen to fill the role will serve a five-year term. “Someone said libraries are more than books, and they certainly are,” Howard said in an interview this week. “And a board member gets to play a part in all of that.” The library’s board of trustees governs the library to ensure community needs are met. A trustee’s obligation, according to the library website, is to act in the best interests of the library by advocating for adequate funding, assisting in planning future library services and facilities, and supporting the mission and vision of the library system. “You want someone that has a respect for the library and what the goals of the library are,” Howard said. The Worcester County Library Board of Trustees consists of seven members representing various geographical areas of the county and are appointed by the Worcester County Commissioners from nominations submitted by the board of trustees. Howard currently represents the Ocean City area. Members serve for a term of five years, for no more than two consecutive terms, and until a successor is appointed. A trustee will also commit to monthly board meetings, which are held on the second Tuesday of each month – except for July and August – at 9: 30 a.m. Meeting locations are rotated among the five library branches. “One of the most important things is to show up for meetings,” Howard said. “We only meet 10 times a year.” A trustee must be a resident of Worcester County and act as a liaison between the public and the board. They must also be knowledgeable in library operations and be involved in the continuing effort to improve library services, among other things. Information, as well as an application, has been posted to the Worcester County Library website, worcesterlibrary.org. Completed applications can be emailed to Library Director Jennifer Ranck at jranck@worcesterlibrary.org or sent to the Worcester County Library, 307 N. Washington Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863. “It gives you a sense of self-satisfaction, that you have a part in forwarding the goals and objectives of the library system,” Howard said. “I know that sounds trite, but it’s true.”
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OC Today-Dispatch
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
Berlin council field slim after filing deadline Three candidates emerge for three seats, with two incumbents not returning By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Sept. 10, 2026) Berlin’s municipal election isn’t shaping up to be the most energetic of contests, with three candidates officially filing to run for the three Town Council seats up for grabs this fall. That could still change if a write-in candidate enters the race before the Sept. 25 deadline, but the regular candidate filing deadline came and went Tuesday without any additional contenders vying for chance to serve on Berlin’s five-member governing body. The positions to be determined by
the Oct. 6 election are currently held by Vice President Dean Burrell, representing District 4; Steve Green, representing District 1; and Jay Knerr, the council’s at-large representative. Burrell is retiring after 32 years as a Town Council member. His last meeting will be Monday, Sept. 28. After being unopposed for a council seat in 2022, Green was elected to the Worcester County Commissioners in June and will leave his Berlin council seat at the conclusion of his current term this month. Since he is unopposed in the November general election, Green (an editor with this publication) will be sworn in as the county board’s District 4 representative Dec. 1. The three candidates who have filed for the Berlin municipal election
are Berlin Planning Commission Chair Matthew Stoehr, who is seeking Green’s District 1 seat; We Heart Berlin founder Tony Weeg, who is running for Burrell’s District 4 seat; and incumbent Jay Knerr, who is seeking another term to the at-large position. Unless a write-in candidate files by Sept. 25, the election will most likely be canceled. Stoehr, who announced his campaign for District 1 earlier in the summer, has served on Berlin’s Planning Commission since 2019. He has chaired the group for the past two and a half years. Stoehr moved to Berlin from Ocean Matthew Stoehr City in 2015. After graduating from Stephen Decatur High School in 2006, he earned an undergraduate degree in finance from Salisbury University and a master’s degree in business administration from Wilmington University in Delaware. Stoehr is the owner of Mast Contracting, a home remodeling company. He has said his background as a business owner has given him experience with accounting, budgeting, and making difficult decisions, traits he believes will serve him well as a
Berlin councilmember. Stoehr told the Bayside Gazette in August that one of his priorities as a councilman would be maintaining open and honest communication with Berlin residents. Stoehr also said he would oppose annexation and instead support continued development on vacant properties within Berlin’s existing boundaries. During his time on the Berlin Planning Commission, Stoehr said the commission has maintained a firm position against annexing additional land into the town. “The other thing I hope to accomplish is continuing with infill,” he said last month. “… we fill in the empty lots in town. I want to continue to push for that, whether it’s commercial, mixed residential, mixed commercial, mixed use. That is one of my main objectives, to try and maximize our empty lots that aren’t bringing much to the town.” Stoehr also emphasized the importance of listening to people with differing opinions, something he said he learned through his work on the planning commission. Weeg, the founder of the nonprofit We Heart Berlin, is running for council for the third time. He first sought a council seat durSee WEEG Page 75
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SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
PAGE 75
Weeg hopes third time’s the charm Continued from Page 74 ing a 2020 special election following the resignation of then-councilmanat-large Thom Gulyas. Weeg was ultimately defeated by Knerr. Weeg later campaigned for the District 4 seat in 2022, losing to Burrell. He is again seeking the District 4 position this year. Weeg moved to Berlin in 2018 and has said he hopes to bring his background in technology and software development to the council. Tony Weeg Among his proposals is a searchable database of the town’s past government meetings. Weeg said he developed an artificial intelligence-based system that compiled records from council, planning commission, and zoning appeals meetings dating back to 2016. He said that the system allows users to search past decisions and other pertinent meeting information. Looking ahead, Weeg has identified Berlin’s property tax rate as one issue the council will eventually need to address. The town’s current property tax rate is $0.8275 per $100 of assessed value. Weeg has said that while he does not support raising taxes, he believes the council should examine the rate earlier in each fiscal year rather than waiting until budget discussions are underway. “I am not for raising taxes,” Weeg told the Bayside Gazette in June. “I am for making the town run more efficiently with what we’ve got.”
Weeg has also said he wants to preserve Berlin’s eastern side from development encroachment, improve pedestrian and bicycle connectivity, and add more crosswalks throughout the town. He has pointed to the potential difficulty pedestrians and bicyclists face crossing Route 113 between the east side of Berlin and downtown and said he would favor a network of crosswalks as an alternative to a more in-depth and costly infrastructure project. Weeg works as a photographer and videographer in addition to his software development work. Knerr, the incumbent at-large councilmember, joined the council in 2020 following Gulyas’ resignation and was elected to a full term in 2022. During his time on the council, Knerr has highlighted the town’s efforts to maintain a steady property tax rate Jay Knerr while continuing to provide municipal services, advance development projects, and preserve Berlin’s historic character. Among the municipal projects he has worked on during his tenure, Knerr emphasized the redevelopment of the former chicken-processing plant at Heron Park, which the town sold to developer Palmer Gillis. After a few bumps in the road, the property’s revitalization is now moving forward. Knerr has also highlighted the council’s efforts to revive plans for a community center at the former
Flower Street School site. The town announced this year that $1.4 million in funding had been secured for the project. Looking ahead, Knerr has said he wants to continue balancing the needs of year-round residents with Berlin’s status as a tourist destination while allowing the town to grow without losing its small-town character. “We fought off the big developers, we don’t see sprawl,” Knerr said earlier this summer. “…I think one of the biggest projects is protecting our neighborhoods’ community and character. We don’t want this massive growth to spread. It would not serve our town well.” Knerr has also cited infrastructure improvements, continued grant funding, police staffing, and maintaining a stable tax rate among his priorities. Knerr is originally from Massachusetts and moved to the Eastern Shore in the 1980s before settling in Berlin in 2000. He is the longtime owner of the Ocean City Kite Loft and has served on the Ocean City Chamber of Commerce and the TidalHealth Atlantic Board of Trustees. Berlin’s municipal election is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 6. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day. Council members elected will serve four-year terms.
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Worcester adding meeting agendas to social media County Commissioners opt for messaging using online platforms like Facebook, X (Sept. 11, 2026) Worcester County Government is expanding its use of social media to make it easier for residents to follow County business. Meeting agendas for the following boards and committees will now be shared on the County’s Facebook and X pages: · Board of License Commissioners · Board of Zoning Appeals · County Commissioners · Planning Commission · Technical Review Committee Learn about upcoming meetings and matters being considered by County of-
ficials. Agendas include information about proposed development, zoning requests, licensing matters, public hearings, County programs, and other topics of community interest. “Sharing agendas on social media gives residents another convenient way to stay informed about matters affecting their communities,” Commissioner President Ted Elder said. “Our goal is to provide the public with timely information and more opportunities to follow County business.” Social media posts will supplement existing notification practices. Agendas and meeting materials will remain available at worcestermd.gov/minutes, and legally required notices will continue to be published in accordance with state and local requirements.
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PAGE 76
OC Today-Dispatch
vanishing
OCEAN CITY
With Bunk Mann
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
Things I Like... By Steve Green Not getting a pile of ones from a cashier Little victories along the way for my kids Breakfast-only restaurants Learning a new vehicle Being stumped by a diverse menu
The terrorists attack of Sept. 11, 2001 impacted all of us Americans significantly 25 years ago today and in the following weeks, months and years. In Ocean City, and the surrounding area, marquee messages were changed to reflect the significance and sorrow locals were feeling. Messages such as “We Will Never Forget,” “God Bless America,” “One Nation Under God” and “United We Stand” were seen up and down Ocean City roads as well as along Route 50. The evening of Sept. 11, 2001, the Ocean City Ministerial Association came together to hold an event of prayer at the Public Safety Building that attracted dozens of local residents. The attendees joined hands together and raised them up in solidarity before returning to their televisions to watch the evening news broadcasts and an address by President George W. Bush. Pictured, a scene Paul (who passed away in 2003) and Trudy Stock of S&H Beach Service created on their beach stand umbrellas at 14th Street on Sept. 11, 2001 and the following days. To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com. Photo courtesy of trudy Stock
A fishing trip with a lot of catching Leaving the office after deadline Teens who talk to other parents Wrap-around front porches When my memory serves me right Cold fruit and peanut butter
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
PAGE 77
Historic dist. weighing renovation deadlines By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Sept. 10, 2026) The Berlin Historic District Commission is considering whether property owners should face a deadline to begin work after receiving approval for projects in the town’s historic district. The discussion arose during last week’s commission meeting as members questioned what happens when projects receive approval but work never begins. The commissioners noted that some projects were approved years ago without any apparent work taking place. Berlin Planning Director Ryan Hardesty said she has been having the town’s code enforcement officer check addresses to determine the sta-
tus of previously approved initiatives. “There are definitely some that got approval a long time ago and have not started anything,” she said. The inspections are also intended to ensure property owners do not mistakenly believe that receiving Historic District Commission approval allows them to proceed without obtaining any other required permits, she said. The also asked if the town’s code currently establishes a time period in which approved work must begin. Hardesty replied that while the code does establish a waiting period for resubmissions on applications that are denied, she was not aware of a similar provision requiring approved projects to proceed within a certain amount of time.
The commissioners discussed the difficulty of enforcing an approval when a property owner decides not to complete the work, because of unexpected circumstances beyond an applicant’s control. Commission chair Norman Bunting suggested that financial constraints could be one reason a property owner receives approval but later does not proceed with the project. “Sometimes money runs out or something like that and they back out,” he said. Members also discussed whether owners should be required to provide an update if a project has not begun within a certain period. The commission suggested requiring a progress report so the commission
could determine whether the owner was still following the approved plans. Hardesty asked members what they considered a reasonable amount of time for work to begin. Bunting suggested six months, while member Mary Moore proposed 90 days, with property owners allowed to return to the commission to provide an update if the work had not begun. The commissioners acknowledged that an appropriate deadline could vary depending on the size and scope of a project. Rather than deciding on a specific timeframe immediately, the commission agreed to continue discussing the issue at a future meeting as part of a potential revision to the town’s historic district code.
Worcester schools lauded for literacy gains Worcester County Public Schools is celebrating a national recognition of literacy achievement in three elementary schools. Pocomoke Elementary School, Ocean City Elementary School and Snow Hill Elementary School have been named Bright Spots Top Schools in literacy by The 74, a national nonprofit newsroom focused on education.
The recognition identifies schools across the country whose students are outperforming expectations in reading. The three Worcester County schools were selected based on student performance data demonstrating literacy outcomes that exceed expectations. “To have three of our elementary schools recognized nationally for literacy
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achievement is an incredible affirmation of the work happening every day across Worcester County,” said Superintendent Annette Wallace. “We have made literacy a central focus because we know that a child’s ability to read confidently and proficiently opens the door to every other opportunity that follows. This recognition belongs to our students, their families,
our extraordinary educators and the entire school communities at Pocomoke, Ocean City and Snow Hill elementary schools,” Wallace added. The recognition comes as WCPS continues to strengthen its systemwide focus on literacy and ensuring that every student develops the foundational skills necessary for long-term academic success.
Opinions
Sept. 11, 2026
Page 78
9/11 reverberations Nine eleven. 9/11. Sept. 11, 2001. No matter how you say or write that date, it is more than a block on the calendar. It is an expression that encapsulates the fear, shock, and dismay Americans experienced when the extremist group al-Qaeda committed the most devastating act of treachery ever visited on this country. Some 2,900 people died in the attacks on the Twin Towers in New York City and the Pentagon in Virginia, as compared to the 2,400 killed during the Japanese assault on Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941. President Franklin Roosevelt later declared that Dec. 7, 1941, “is a date which will live in infamy.” And it did — until Americans born after that date outnumbered those who were alive before it. That’s the nature of time and is why citizens born after Sept. 11 may respectfully acknowledge the shock inflicted on the nation, but never truly understand the pain that followed. How, then, can a population that did not experience an event be made to understand its lasting effect on the American way of life? In the case of 9/11, it must be by doing everything we can to protect what the terrorists ultimately targeted: our national treasure and once greatest export, our democratic principles. Ironically, our response to the attacks did the heaviest damage to those very principles. As the Council on Foreign Relations observed this week, the subsequent "War on Terror" prompted democracies to pass expansive surveillance laws, restrict civil liberties, and tolerate human rights abuses. In this country, the passage of the Patriot Act incorporated all of the above. The public went along, willingly giving up personal freedom in exchange for safety and order. It was only six years ago, in 2020, that many of the Patriot Act's provisions were finally allowed by Congress to expire. It’s for that reason that people need to realize 9/11’s effect on America continues to reverberate through society. So, when saying “Never forget,” Americans should reflect on that horrible day, but also be reminded to guard against those who would exchange America the Free for America the Secure. As Benjamin Franklin famously said, "Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety."
OC Today-Dispatch Stubbornly local, equally independent NEWS EDITOR STEWART DOBSON; EXECUTIVE EDITOR STEVE GREEN ASSOCIATE EDITOR BETHANY HOOPER STAFF WRITERS TARA FISCHER, BRIAN SHANE Contact News Room: editor@octodaydispatch.com SALES ACCOUNT MANAGERS MARY COOPER, TERRI FRENCH, RENEE KELLY CLASSIFIEDS/LEGALS PAMELA GREEN Contact Sales: sales@octodaydispatch.com PRODUCTION ART DIRECTOR COLE GIBSON; SENIOR PAGE DESIGNER SUSAN PARKS SENIOR AD DESIGNER KELLY BROWN ADMINISTRATION PUBLISHER/CONTROLLER CHRISTINE BROWN ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT GINI TUFTS Web: octodaydispatch.com ~ Facebook: www.facebook.com/octodaydispatch OC Today-Dispatch is published Fridays by FLAG Publications, Inc. 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 410-723-6397 All content copyright 2026
reprint from Sept. 18, 2020
PUBLIC EYE
Older, wiser, maybe
I turned old last month, having observed the passing of another year since the day I popped out squalling and bawling at the hospital in Nassawadox, Virginia. I remember saying on my arrival, “What is a Nassawadox, anyway?” The truth is I’ve answered that question many times over the years, because it’s not what you’d call a well-known place, especially off the peninsula. When I am asked, I reBy spond with the facts ... iniStewart tially. “Nassawadox,” I’ll say in Dobson my tour bus voice, “is a village on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. “It lies about 35 miles north of the bay bridge tunnel, and its name is derived from its first inhabitants, members of the Nuswattocks tribe of Algonquin-speaking Indians. Translated, it means, “Land between two waters.” Then I add, just for the fun of it, “Nuswattocks should not be confused with Nusbuttocks, which is in Florida, and means, ‘Land between two ...’” Obviously, I didn’t say that or anything else the day of my arrival, although if I could have said something, it probably would have been “Go Back! It’s a Trap!” That’s because I would have been trying to understand what terrible thing I had done to cause my host to evict me from such comfortable accommodations. After all, once we are born we spend all our lives trying to amass enough money to be
able to do what we had been doing before we were ejected: relaxing in a well-protected, rent-free, climate-controlled space, eating whenever we wanted and having no worries or drama. On the downside: not much of a view. A womb with a view makes for a great pun, but I suspect it would be significantly less than desirable in real life. In the meantime, it’s difficult for me to believe that I have gotten this far given the many times I have said, “Let’s see what happens.” This rates up there with, “This could be interesting” and “Something’s going to happen,” which is said generally when you have no idea what you are doing and are tired of doing it, so you make a wild guess and run. Experience has shown that the results to the implied questions above are what you’d expect: explosions (some desired, some inconvenient), a visit to the body shop for Mom’s car, kitchen cleanup after the “Great Rice Chex War of 1961” with a sibling, attempting to ride a flash flood in the stream behind the house in half a 50-gallon drum and trying to ski the town’s only hill on skis made of leftover wall paneling. I have also stood up when I should have shut up. And yet, here I am, continuing to exist, having learned along the way that saying “Let’s see what happens” is just the short version of “I have no idea what I’m doing, but I’m going to do it anyway and hope for the best.” That’s slightly different than “Something’s going to happen,” which means you don’t know what you’re doing, but do know enough to understand that the best course is to run right after you do it.
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
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OC Today-Dispatch
Between the Lines By Steve Green
There are more questions at this point than answers when it comes to the transatlantic cable project proposed to run from Ireland to the airport in West Ocean City. It appears Amazon and Globalinx are no longer partners on the massive underwater fastnet cable project, raising speculation a new agreement is needed in Ocean City. The current agreement between Globalinx and Ocean City allows for underground cable and a manhole to a landing station at the airport in West Ocean City, according to the document. Therefore, Amazon’s contention last week it now plans to build a small (700 square feet) Power Feed Equipment facility on the airport grounds that would transmit its optical signal to the “greater Washinton region,” is significant. An Amazon spokesman said, “Amazon has no intention to build a CLS or a data center in Worcester County.” There are several important factors at play here. First is the current agreement between Ocean City and Globalinx Data Center LLC, a Virginia company. The 22-page agreement calls for Ocean City to receive $800,000 for the first four cables installed and another $200,000 per cable installed beyond that. Globalinx has paid Ocean City $228,000 already for executing the agreement. The issue is Amazon is technically not a part of the agreement, although it’s believed Globalinx was the lead partner on the project all along. Also, the accord states the only project authorized at the airport is a cable landing station. It stands to reason the money would need to be refunded and a new agreement created between Amazon and the town, but it’s not clear at this point if that’s the reality. It’s also unknown if Ocean City officials will want to go into another agreement considering the strong opposition that has surfaced in recent months from the County Commissioners as well as residents. Additionally, there is the county’s one-year moratorium that prohibits the submission and issuance of permits for both data centers and cable landing stations. Amazon seems to think it has a workaround with the power feed facility through an amendment only applying to the cityowned airport off Route 611. The county’s press release on the moratorium clearly stated, “The moratorium applies to both pending and future applications while the County completes its review. As a result of the moratorium, no appeals or special exception requests involving data centers or cable landing stations are currently scheduled before the BZA. Applications previously submitted for BZA consideration have been placed on hold ...” Amazon canceled its appearance before the BZA last week due to a scheduling issue but has pledged to return to the BZA soon with its request. Attorneys will likely soon be deeply involved in this situation if they aren’t already. Whether the cables can even come ashore in Worcester County is another question. According to the county’s moratorium text, it appears to be a gray area at best. Ocean City owns the airport facility, but the land is in Worcester County’s commercial airport district. Next steps will be fascinating to see including whether Ocean City chooses to ink another agreement with Amazon and whether Worcester County can pivot to meet Amazon’s own swivel to contain infrastructure to the airport itself. *** There are certain moments in history everyone remembers where they were when they occurred. I remember sitting in my fifth-grade classroom at East Salisbury Elementary School when we watched the Challenger shuttle explosion on Jan. 28, 1986 on television. Others have the same recollection of President Kennedy’s assassination on Nov. 22, 1963, and the Pearl Harbor attack on Dec. 7, 1941. On a less historic front, I remember watching the OJ Simpson verdict with my college roommates on Oct. 3, 1995. As far as Sept. 11, 2001, I was in Ocean City, having just wrapped up a meeting with Ocean City Public Works Director Hal Adkins about the proposed park and ride in West Ocean City. The facility would open two years later. Back then, I listened to the “Imus in the Morning” radio show each morning, and the first tower had already been struck as I drove to our Berlin office. I was driving when the second plane took out the second tower, confirming it was a terrorist attack. Warner Wolf, a reporter who lived seven blocks from the World Trade Center, was awoke from bed with the first plane flying low over his apartment. Wolf gave a live detailed account on the radio of the attacks from his vantage point. Soon after came the Pentagon attack, the fall of the towers and the jet crash caused by the heroes on Flight 93 that averted another planned attack. What followed was a wave of patriotic unity that seems a bit foreign now. Today is about remembering those who died that day as well as the brave heroes who did all they could to save lives in the face of hate and evil.
Letters to the editor Expand convention center, axe sports complex plans Editor, An outdoor sports complex may have been a good idea when first proposed 10 years ago. But circumstances have changed. Before Ocean City taxpayers assume the enormous financial risk of acquiring land, constructing and operating a new facility, we should ask whether this is still the best investment for our town. Studies conducted for the Maryland Stadium Authority by Crossroads Consultants in 2017 and 2020 identified the growing number of similar outdoor facilities nationally and throughout the region as a potential threat. Tournament promoters also expressed concern about oversaturation of the mid-Atlantic market. After 10 years, maybe it is time to reconsider the strategy – not the goal. Ocean City should become a premier sports destination, but we should pursue that goal in the most financially responsible way possible. The Crossroads feasibility study examined both an outdoor field complex and an indoor fieldhouse and found relatively strong demand for a new indoor facility. Ocean City already has the foundation for one: the Roland E. Powell Convention Center. The convention center has successfully hosted basketball, wrestling, tennis and volleyball tournaments, along with major dance and cheerleading competitions. It already has much of the infrastructure needed – including concessions, restrooms, meeting rooms, staff and established relationships with event promoters. Why build an entirely new indoor facility outside Ocean City when we
can expand an existing facility inside Ocean City? The convention center’s existing front parking lot is five acres with 600 parking spaces and could potentially be developed to provide substantially more parking and additional multipurpose space to accommodate indoor sports, locker rooms and storage for year-round weatherproof sporting events. There is also a fundamental economic issue. The proposed outdoor complex would be approximately 11 miles and 30 minutes from central Ocean City. It could generate significant economic activity for businesses outside the town, while Ocean City taxpayers would bear the financial burden. The Worcester County Commissioners and neighboring residents have opposed the project, and the county has withdrawn from participation. Why should Ocean City finance an economic engine located outside Ocean City when the investment and economic benefits could possibly be kept here? Ocean City already has the hotels, restaurants, workforce, transportation and tourism infrastructure needed to support major events. Expanding the convention center would keep more visitor spending in Ocean City while creating additional employment and economic activity during the shoulder and winter seasons. And it comes with an existing working relationship with the Maryland Stadium Authority and an existing funding mechanism. Let’s not abandon sports tourism. Let’s invest in it wisely – inside Ocean City. Continued on Page 80
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SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Continued from Page 79 If taxpayers and businesses are going to finance an economic engine, let’s start with updating the feasibility studies, and then let’s build that engine in Ocean City to make sure its residents and businesses receive the benefits. Dennis W. Dare Ocean City (The writer is a former city councilman and city manager).
Remembering Sept. 11 and what it taught us
Editor, On Sept. 11, 2001, I had just finished teaching a dance aerobics class and went into the women’s locker room to change. On the radio, I heard what I thought was an updated version of Orson Welles’s famous 1938 War of the Worlds broadcast, based on H.G. Wells’s novel published in 1898. I quickly realized this was not fiction. It was real life. I immediately called my child’s school to ask if they wanted me to come and help contact parents about picking up their children early. I was told, “No. School will run the normal course of the day.” I then went to give blood. Every time the television showed those horrible pictures of the towers collapsing, I turned my head. Once was more than enough. Even 25 years later, I still get tears in my eyes when I remember watching those images. But I remember something else about that terrible time. America came together. We were united. We
put aside our political differences and focused on what we had in common. We were determined to protect our freedom, help our neighbors and defend the country we loved. Where are we today? We have never seemed more polarized. Too often, we allow political parties and labels to divide us and forget that, before we are Democrats or Republicans, we are Americans. This Sept. 11, let us remember not only the nearly 3,000 innocent people who lost their lives, but also the spirit of unity that emerged afterward. Let us share those memories with our young people who were too young to remember September 11, 2001, or who were not yet born. Let us teach them that democracy and freedom are not guaranteed. They require citizens who are willing to participate, stay informed and accept the responsibilities that come with living in a free country. One of those responsibilities is voting. As November approaches, let us do our homework. Research the candidates. Learn where they stand on the issues. Listen beyond the political slogans and consider who will best represent our communities and our country. Do not vote simply because of a political party. Know the issues. Be an informed voter. Be a responsible citizen. And go out and vote. Perhaps one of the best ways we can honor the spirit of Sept. 11 is to remember what brought us together and work to find that common ground again. We are Americans first. Let us never forget that. Tish Michel Ocean City
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Agricultural industry struggling under tariffs Editor, Donald Trump’s recent and senseless 50% tariffs levied on Canadian imports are another weight lowered onto the shoulders of struggling farmers and their families. In a Baltimore Banner article, one Queen Anne’s County farmer called the situation “the worst since the ’80s.” Canada then levied retaliatory tariffs onto $27 billion in American imports. These include dairy products, molasses and flour. The tariffs are targeted at agricultural and manufacturing centers in states that voted for Trump. These retaliatory tariffs will slash American exports of farm products to Canada, slicing away another source of income for American farm families. On top of Trump’s Iran war, which has resulted in drastically higher costs for diesel, natural gas and fertilizer, tariffs will cost American farmers over $40 billion in 2026. South American competitors have stepped up to meet demand for soybeans, for instance, as major foreign buyers like China shift to other partners. These markets will be very difficult for American agriculture to regain. Don’t own a farm? Think you’re insulated from the agricultural crisis? Think again. In Wicomico County alone, agricultural support and downstream businesses that serve farmers (insurance, energy suppliers, food processing, all agribusinesses) are the county’s primary economic engine. Every $100 in farm products provides an additional $45 for supporting business sectors. The MAGA crowd in Washington, including Congressman Harris’s Freedom Caucus, has done nothing to help the agriculture community in its districts. Republicans control 90% of the 50 largest rural Congressional districts in the nation yet show nothing but disdain for farmers’ plights. Congressman Harris represents every county on the Eastern Shore, the economies of which live or die on
agriculture and fishing. He was elected to improve the lives and wellbeing of his constituents. Because he votes lockstep for every disastrous Trump policy (95% of his votes support Trump) he has betrayed the very people who sent him to Washington. It’s time to send him permanently back to the operating room where he can do less harm. Ronald Pilling Bishopville
Ocean City prices too high for an Eastern Shore town
Editor, Now that the summer season is over, let's take a hard look at Ocean City. I know the visitor numbers compare to previous years but according to some friends who own various establishments spending was way down. Let's see, Eastern Shore, Worcester County with Palm Springs prices. It's insane in this town -- the most overrated, overpriced resort in America. It costs $500-$600-$700 a night? This ain't Palm Beach, Fla. Restaurant prices, absolutely nuts. My brother was recently here with his family (he has a few bucks) took the family to dinner one night as his 16year-old granddaughter asked if she could order steak. My brother said it was fine. A six-ounce filet mignon was $63. There's a local breakfast nook which offers a piece of French toast and one egg for $8.50. What's that? 10,000% profit? A friend recently took her child to a now closed boardwalk stand and a chili cheese dog with small fries was $23.95. Personally, I can't go out to eat because of limited funds. But even if I could, mostly what you find in Ocean City is mediocre cuisine at outrageous prices. One little footnote: my buddy is a full-time waterman. Told me the crab harvest is up 46% from last year, but jumbos are still $120 a dozen. Is there any end to the greed? Mark Pfaff West Ocean City
Have an opinion? We invite you to share it, but all letters are subject to verification, so please include your name and phone number. All letters are subject to editing for space and to protect the author and this newspaper from legal action. Email letters to editor@octodaydispatch.com. For questions, call 410-723-6397.
OC Today-Dispatch
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
PAGE 81
SUBMITTED PHOTOS/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
WPS HOLDS COLLEGE WORKSHOP The Worcester Prep Class of 2027 hit the ground running in preparation for 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 one-on-one sessions with Kelly Hawse, WPS Director of College Counseling. They focused on writing and reviewing college applications and essays, as well as refining their college lists. In addition, college admissions representatives shared valuable insights 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 were Suzie Friedrich from Washington College; Becky Brady, Drexel University; Abbey Murphy, Salisbury University; Michelle Zumpano, Bryant University; Abby Trice, University of Maryland; and Jeff Smith, University of Tennessee. Rising seniors collaborated with college admissions representatives during the annual College Application & Essay Writing Workshop at Worcester Prep; Suzie Friedrich of Washington College (first from right), Becky Brady of Drexel University (second front from right), Abbey Murphy of Salisbury University (third front from right), Michelle Zumpano of Bryant University (fourth front from left), Abby Trice of the University of Maryland (two front from left), and Jeff Smith of the University of Tennessee (fifth back from left).
Rising seniors Jacquie Lysenko, Emma Nordstrom, Sydney Parker, Isha Garg and Gabriella Damouni reunited with smiles at the annual College Application & Essay Writing Workshop at Worcester Prep.
Chase Burbage, Luke Pitarra, Jack Adkins and Beau Brittingham paused from drafting their college essays to smile for the camera.
Senior Gabriella Damouni works with English teacher Elana Zambori on crafting her college admissions essay.
Seniors Kyler Phillips and Michael Hall worked side-by-side as they navigated the college application process.
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SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
OC Today-Dispatch
TidalHealth to host free drivethru flu clinics
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
WOR-WIC NURSING DEGREES Awards and recognition ceremonies recently celebrated the achievements of 59 Wor-Wic Community College graduates who earned associate degrees in nursing (ADN) and certificates of practical nursing (CPN). The nurse pinning ceremony was modeled after a tradition started by Florence Nightingale in the 1860s and initiates nurse graduates into the profession. For ADN students, the keynote speaker was Kate Wyatt, a nursing instructor and critical care nurse, and the student speaker was Nakyah Taylor. For CPN students, the event featured a keynote address by Jacquelyn Failla, assistant professor of nursing, and the student speaker was Seth Tayman. Special awards were presented by Sarah Wray, director of nursing.
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(Sept. 11, 2026) Since 1994, TidalHealth has held annual drive-thru flu clinics during the fall season, making it easy for community members to protect themselves against seasonal influenza without ever leaving their vehicles. Participants simply drive up, roll up a sleeve, and get their flu shot from the comfort and convenience of their car. TidalHealth’s flu clinics are free and open to anyone age 8 and older. Individuals younger than 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian to provide consent. The vaccine administered is a trivalent seasonal influenza vaccine; highdose flu vaccines will only be offered at the Berlin and Ocean Pines events. If you think a high-dose vaccine may be appropriate for you, please speak with your primary care practitioner or pharmacist. This year's drive-thru flu clinics include: • Friday, Sept. 11, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Arthur W. Perdue (Shorebirds) Stadium, 6400 Hobbs Road, Salisbury. • Tuesday, Sept. 29, from 4 to 7:30 p.m. at the TidalHealth John H. "Jack" Burbage, Jr. Cancer Center, See LOWER Page 83
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
Lower Shore flu OBITUARY clinics scheduled Continued from Page 82 9707 Healthway Drive, Berlin. Highdose “senior” flu shots will be available at this event. • Saturday, Oct. 3, from 8 a.m. to noon at TidalHealth McCready Pavilion, 201 Hall Highway, Crisfield • Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026, from 8 a.m. to noon at TidalHealth Gudelsky Family Pavilion, 10614 Racetrack Road. High-dose “senior” flu shots will be available at this event. This year's community flu clinics include: • Wednesday, Sept. 30, 11:30 am to 1:30 pm at St. Peter's Lutheran Church, 10301 Coastal Highway, Ocean City. High-dose "senior" flu shots will be available at this event. • Thursday, Oct. 1, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Vernon Powell Shoes, 2401 E. Naylor Mill Road, Salisbury. • Friday, Oct. 2, 8 a.m. to noon at Whatcoat Church, 100 W. Federal St., Snow Hill. High-dose "senior" flu shots will be available at this event. • Tuesday, Oct. 6, 10 a.m. to noon at the Salvation Army Sussex Chapel, 22318 Sussex Highway, Seaford • Thursday, Oct. 8, 9 a.m. to noon at St. Mary Star of the Sea Church, 200 S. Baltimore Ave., Ocean City. High-dose "senior" flu shots will be available at this event. • Saturday, Oct. 10, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Apple Scrapple Festival in downtown Bridgeville. • Wednesday, Oct. 14, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Stevenson United Methodist Church, 123 N Main St., Berlin. High-dose "senior" flu shots will be available at this event. • Thursday, Oct. 15, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Atlantic Club, 11827 Ocean Gateway, Ocean City. • Saturday, Oct. 17, 9:15 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Snow Hill Craft Fair located at the Snow Hill Volunteer Fire Company, 4718 Snow Hill Road, Snow Hill. High-dose "senior" flu shots will be available at this event. To learn more or find additional flu clinic dates and locations, visit tidalhealth.org/flu.
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DOROTHY BRATTEN WARREN Whaleyville Dorothy “Dottie” Bratten Warren a beloved mother, aunt, and cherished friend got her angel wings on June 24, 2026, at the age of 93. Born Dec. 29, 1932, and raised in Whaleyville on the Bratten family farm, she learned early on the meaning of hard Dorothy Warren work, family, and community. In 1949, she married the love of her life, Lee R. Warren and together settled in Libertytown-Berlin and raised two children, Connie Cadwell of Annapolis, and Richard L. Warren of Frederick. Dottie and Lee raised chickens with Perdue. Later Dottie worked at Berlin Nursing home as a nursing aid until she retired. Lee and Dottie trav-
eled through their 57 years of marriage: Bermuda cruises, Niagara Falls, Graceland, Las Vegas, and visits to Annapolis with their daughter, Connie. Dottie loved Elvis, country music, racehorses, Dancing with the Stars, and the Baltimore Orioles. In 2013, Dottie began a new chapter when she moved to Gull Creek. There, she found not simply a home, but a community she loved dearly. Dottie became a familiar and beloved presence, known for her wit, wonderful personality, and her ability to make people feel special. At 93, Dottie leaves behind a beautiful legacy of family, friendship, hard work, kindness, and a life well lived. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know and love her. In keeping with Dottie’s generous spirit and her lifelong desire to help others, she made the remarkable decision to donate her
body to Anatomy Gift and medical education. It is a fitting tribute to a woman who spent her life caring for others. Our family would like to express our deepest and most heartfelt gratitude to Mary Massey Gillin, Dottie’s beloved caregiver, Judy Whalan, and the extraordinary nurses at Gull Creek. A Celebration of Dottie’s life will be held on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026 at 2 p.m. at the Atlantic Hotel in Berlin. Family and friends are warmly invited to come together to share memories, celebrate her extraordinary life, and honor the remarkable lady she was.
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SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
SURF REPORT
The Adventures
P
by Steve Green
of Fatherhood
Editor’s Note: The following is a reprint from October 2021.) arenting a special needs kid can be at times like walking cautiously through a minefield. What’s key through the navigation is optimism. The trouble is not always visible. The route previously deemed safe one day can be disastrous on another. What brought on anxiety and peace once may not always and vice versa. Every day truly is different, no matter if the same routine is followed throughout. The best way to get over a bad day is to move on to the next one, hoping and praying lessons were learned when unfortunate behaviors and lapse in judgments occur. There are so many motivational sayings that go along with raising special needs kids. Because I think these are healthy to retain, I have many of these saved on my work computer. One I like is, “Once you accept that your child will be different, not better or worse, just different, that’s the first step.” Another is, “Until you have a kid with special needs you have no idea of the depth of your strength, tenacity and resourcefulness.” Another is, “Children with special needs come into our lives, leaving footprints on our hearts, ad we are never the same.” Perhaps my all-time favorite is, “Sometimes angels are disguised as kids with special needs to teach us how to be better people.” Maintaining these sorts of positive perspectives keeps me level-headed, but there are times when there are challenges to staying optimistic. As we tell the volunteers at our TOPSoccer program for special needs kids, the key traits needed are compassion, patience and a flexible brain. It’s a matter of picking the right battles and simply letting some things go from time to time. Some examples on the topic. • If Carson wants to wear his favorite Berlin Intermediate sweatshirt
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every day of the week, I will only fight it so much. If he is so insistent that it brings him to tears at 7 in the morning when I try to encourage a different shirt, I cave. Each day starts with a different outfit in mind while hiding the sweatshirt. What worked years ago no longer does, however. He’s too smart for it. He remembers now. There are many mornings I find him standing in his room and the shirt his mom laid out for him on the floor. He’s waiting and thinking. The anxiety is building. What I do know is it’s not worth a meltdown if it brings him some sort of peace. We just need to remember to wash it each night and hide it nearby in the hopes he forgets. • Carson’s necessity for a routine has rubbed off on me, ramping up my own obsessive and compulsive tendencies more than normal. I spend a lot of time laughing at myself. Pam often joins in as well. I can be ridiculous, and I know it, but I come from a good place with my weirdness. Carson enjoys my odd quirks each morning. I joke with him, “let’s go, okay it’s 7:12 a.m., we have to get to Dunkin, have our coffee, eat your breakfast and then to school by 7:30.” It works and gets him laughing. Meanwhile I’m sweating. • The smallest things bring me joy when it comes to Carson, especially when he walks into school with a smile. His favorite morning thing currently is to listen to the Los Angeles traffic report on the way to school. He laughs out loud over it for some reason, especially when I remind each day it’s over 3,000 miles away and it’s 4 in the morning there. Yet, there is some lady in a helicopter talking about expressway traffic and the likelihood of fog rolling in at sunrise. He loves it. When we arrive at school, he then sets my navigation for a point of interest in Los Angeles. Yesterday it was the airport. The day before it was a gas station. He gets a kick out of my
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arrival time. Whatever it takes. • I think way too much about my son not having friends. Growing up, friends were everything to me. Many of these individuals remain great friends today. I get sad when I wonder how Carson will make friends in his life. What’s interesting is Carson doesn’t seem to care. He’s content doing his own thing and seems to embrace solitariness, but it’s always on our minds. It’s why it warms our heart when we hear he has a little lunch table of special friends he sits with now. • One of the ills of society with young people today is the sense of entitlement. The victim card is one I see thrown around a lot by kids, including my neurotypical older son. With Carson, none of this is a problem. He doesn’t seem to expect anything. In some ways, he’s more laidback about things than his big brother. This sounds contradictory with some of the things I have written about in this space today. However, it’s true because his expectations are different. He doesn’t expect when he goes to Walmart to grab all the candy he wants or get the new video game or soccer cleats even though he has perfectly fine ones at home. When he doesn’t do well on a test, Carson shrugs his shoulders and moves on. When Beckett doesn’t do well on a test, he makes excuses and blames a teacher for not providing sufficient review or a friend for keeping up too late the night before. There’s not a lot of ownership on his part. Matthew McConaughey put it well, saying, “Life is not fair, it never was, it isn’t now and it won’t ever be. Do not call into the trap. The entitlement trap, of feeling like you’re a victim. You are not.”
(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.)
Post-Labor Day typically brings lower humidity In addition to tolerable weather, hopes run high for some surfable swells By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer (Sept. 11, 2026) As of this writing it seems appropriate to speak of Labor Day and the second season, similar to last week’s column/article, hopefully without being redundant. Labor Day weekend has come and gone and even though the weather is still quite warm there’s a cooling northerly breeze with lower humidity and a lower dew point. People are hanging out on the beach and enjoying the still warm ocean water. This will be the case for the next few weeks at least. Unfortunately, the surf is, shall we say, lacking. Though it has had it’s moments these last few months, to describe it as mediocre would be generous. Go-to surf areas are still Assateague Island, Indian River, the Ocean City Inlet and an occasional decent sand bar in the southern part of Ocean City. There are plenty of local residents that will still be working full time plus, especially with all the planned events that Ocean City has brought on. But hopefully their load will be lighter and less hectic with what should be a more appreciative crowd. At any rate this fall, second season, period of time is one that is generally looked upon in a favorable light. We’ll see what happens. Now if only we could get a reasonable, surf able swell. Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF JAMAL FOREMAN
DECATUR PHOTOS OF THE WEEK Robert G. Knox Field at Louis H. Taylor Stadium was jamming last Friday night for Stephen Decatur High School’s regular season home opener. The Seahawks jumped all over Laurel from the outset, defeating the Bulldogs of Delaware 34-0 before an electric crowd. Decatur travels to Wi-Hi on Friday in what is expected to be a more competitive contest. Pictured are scenes from the game last Friday night. See page 86 for more photos, including top left new Head Coach Russell Croteau about to lead his team on the field.
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF JAMAL FOREMAN
DECATUR PHOTOS OF THE WEEK PART II The crowd was lively on Stephen Decatur’s football’s “white out” game. Some powder was also seen filling the air at certain points. Pictured are some scenes from the last Friday’s spectator areas.
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