Three-day Oceans Calling kicks off third year in OC
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Sept. 26, 2025) More than 55,000 concertgoers will gather in downtown Ocean City this weekend for the third annual Oceans Calling Festival.
While rain is possible this weekend –as was the case for the last two festivals – officials continue to prepare for an influx of visitors to Ocean City ahead of the third annual Oceans Calling Festival. Held Sept. 26-28, the three-day festival will feature more than 40 performances across three stages at the southern end of the Boardwalk.
The festival kicks off Friday with performances by Green Day, Lenny Kravitz, The Black Crowes, Nelly, O.A.R., Cake, Live, The Fray, Fountains of Wayne, The 502s, Spin Doctors, Letters to Cleo, Ballyhoo!, Bel and Izzy Escobar. On Saturday, the festival continues with performances by Noah Kahan, Vampire Weekend, Good Charlotte, Modest Mouse, Jack’s Mannequin, Collective Soul, En Vogue, Franz Ferdinand, Natasha Bedingfield, DJ Jazzy Jeff, Mat Kearney, Wheatus, Bumpin Uglies and Rachel Ana Dobken. The festival concludes on Sunday with Fall Out Boy, Weezer, Train, Devo, Vance Joy, Ziggy Marley, 4 Non Blondes, Michelle Branch, Blind Melon, Burning Spear, Marcy Playground and Eric Hutchinson, with a special set by O.A.R. and Friends.
The festival will also feature Jolly Roger rides, food vendors and guest ap-
pearances and cooking demonstrations by chefs Robert Irvine, Michael Voltaggio, Bryan Voltaggio and Antonia Lofaso with host Jason Biggs.
Promoter improves festival site, shares traffic updates
In 2023, the first year of Oceans Calling, C3 Presents partnered with the town and local businesses to include a portion of the Boardwalk in its festival footprint. And by and large, several Boardwalk establishments have reported strong sales during the past two festival weekends.
However, in an attempt to improve upon previous festivals, the event promoter has announced several enhancements and additions to this year’s festival grounds, including additional entrances along the Boardwalk, a new matted walking path underneath the pier between the Sea Bright and Rockville stages, and additional audio and video screen coverage at all festival stages.
The site will also feature a better crowd flow between the Rockville and Carousel stages, improved site lines at the Sea Bright stage ADA viewing deck, removal of the enclosure over the Rockville stage attendee area and a new access path between the Boardwalk and the Carousel stage.
As in previous years, the promoter is encouraging festivalgoers to walk, bike or take public transportation to the festival site.
For those who are driving, parking
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Festival grounds feature upgrades
will be available at the West Ocean City Park and Ride, the Ocean City convention center, and the 100th Street municipal lot. The West Ocean City Shuttle will run to and from the Park and Ride, while the Ocean City Beach Bus will offer a reduced-stop express service. The northbound Beach Bus will pick up passengers on Baltimore Avenue between Wicomico and Talbot streets when leaving the festival.
“We anticipate that festivalgoers will arrive throughout the day,” a message reads. “The majority of the traffic congestion is anticipated after the festival. We will establish an alternate traffic pattern to accommodate additional pedestrian walkways and the staging of multiple Beach Buses along Baltimore Avenue for those wishing to take the bus back. To avoid the congestion, take a stroll along the Ocean City Boardwalk or visit a downtown business outside of the festival footprint.”
Residents and festivalgoers can also expect road closures and changes to traffic patterns throughout the festival weekend. Southbound St. Louis Avenue will be restricted to emergency vehicles, residents and employees of downtown businesses.
From the Route 50 bridge, the south turn lane of Philadelphia Avenue will also be restricted to emergency vehicles, mass transit and downtown residents. Traffic will be diverted onto North Division Street and then to northbound Baltimore Avenue, where only the left lane will be open for travel.
Additional information can be found on the Oceans Calling website, oceanscallingfestival.com.
Country Calling Festival set for following weekend
Following the conclusion of this weekend’s festival, officials will begin their preparations for the second annual Country Calling Festival, which will take place Oct. 3-5.
The three-day event will take place in the same festival footprint downtown. Headlining this year’s festival are Carrie Underwood, Brooks & Dunn, Luke Bryan and Luke Combs.
For more information, visit countrycallingfestival.com.
Officials eyeing beach restoration
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Sept. 26, 2025) A beach replenishment project is proposed to take place in Ocean City late next year.
In a public notice issued Monday, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced it is planning for a beach replenishment project in late 2026. The notice comes roughly two months after the city learned that federal funding had not been earmarked for a planned project this fall.
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 replenishment as needed. Typically, Ocean City’s beaches are replenished on a four-year cycle, with the most recent replenishment project taking place in the fall and winter of 2021.
The agreement also outlines the fund-
ing commitments of each party, with the federal Army Corps paying 53% of the cost of renourishment the city reports.
At the city level, money is set aside annually for beach renourishment. Those yearly contributions are then placed into a shared fund, which then earns interest and accumulates to fund future beach renourishment projects.
However, federal dollars are “subject to appropriation,” City Manager Terry McGean said earlier this summer.
This year, the involved parties were not successful in lobbying Congress for the needed federal funding. To that end, city officials this summer began working with the state’s federal representatives to secure those funds for a beach replenishment project next year.
“It is my understanding that we were supposed to have beach replenishment this off season. It did not happen. The fed-
eral funding was not provided,” Public Works Director Hal Adkins said this week. “As the public works director, I’m very appreciative that they have put out this public notice and we are moving forward with thoughts of doing replenishment work in the fall of 2025 and winter of 2027.”
As part of that proposed project, the Army Corps – in conjunction with the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Ocean Energy Management – has recently conducted a supplemental environmental analysis of Weaver Shoal, a borrow area where sand is taken for beach replenishment efforts.
The draft plan, published this week, consists of moving forward with a renourishment project in the winter of 2026-2027, and dredging sand from Weaver Shoal for the 2026 renourishment project and one additional cycle thereafter.
When the beach replenishment took place in 2021, the Army Corps awarded a $15.7 million contract to pump roughly 800,000 cubic yards of sand onto Ocean City’s beaches.
While the city worked to restore federal funding for beach replenishment earlier this summer, the Army Corps received emergency approval to remove 7,500 cubic yards of dredged material from the Ocean City Inlet. The project, officials say, allowed the U.S. Coast Guard to better respond to emergency events.
Law clerk falsified timesheets, case will not go to trial
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Sept. 26, 2025) The retired Worcester County judge accused of misconduct in office has settled the matter by paying a fine and accepting a guilty verdict.
A civil complaint filed by state prosecutors in July alleged Gerald V. Purnell, 69, knew that longtime law clerk Bridget Lowrie, over a four-year period, had falsely claimed on timesheets to have worked 40 hours a week while still collecting a full salary. Lowrie, 46, also was cited for misconduct. She quit last summer after the allegations surfaced, court documents say.
Online court records show both paid a fine last month in Anne Arundel County District Court and accepted a guilty disposition, preventing the case from going to trial as scheduled for Sept. 15. State prosecutors in court documents had asked that each pay a $10,000 fine as a penalty.
Appointed by Gov. Robert Erlich in 2006, Purnell was the Eastern Shore’s first African American District Court judge. He stepped down in August 2024 shortly after suffering a stroke on the bench.
Downtown support grows for Baltimore Ave. project
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Sept. 26, 2025) The time is right.
That’s the message some Ocean City residents and downtown representatives had to share this week about a planned streetscape project along Baltimore Avenue.
With $20 million in federal grant funding, and an ambitious timeline to get the project finished, they say the corridor’s redevelopment could increase property values, improve pedestrian safety and create a more welcoming entry point to Ocean City.
“This project is only going to get more expensive the longer you wait, and we have a history of that with this specific project …,” Zach Bankert, Ocean City Development Corporation (OCDC) executive director, said in an interview this week. “The time to do it is now. I would hate to kick the can down the road with this project.”
In the 1990s, the city embarked on an extensive project to underground utilities, widen sidewalks and improve the landscape at both the north and south end of Baltimore Avenue. Yet a section of the corridor, from North Division Street to 15th Street, has remained untouched.
“North Division to 15th was always
the major project to tie it all together,” Baltimore Avenue resident Peter Buas, a former councilman, said this week. “The goal was to have undergrounded utilities on Baltimore Avenue with a walkable downtown community.”
In recent years, city officials have set their sights on completing the project. However, the project hit a snag in 2022, when the Ocean City Council learned the initial $20 million cost estimate had soared to roughly $40 million.
Pointing to the price increase, the council agreed to postpone improvements and give staff additional time to seek grants that would offset the rise in cost. The answer came in March 2024, when then-president Joe Biden signed a bill that included a $20 million federal grant for Baltimore Avenue.
Residents, downtown reps tout project benefits
With that money in hand, the city is now in the process of considering a right-of-way abandonment that will allow the project to advance. Bankert said he is eager to see action taken, as OCDC has advocated for improvements on Baltimore Avenue for years.
“OCDC is very supportive of the project. We have been for a long time,”
Improvements eyed for corridor
he said. “If you would go back through all the different comp plans and organizational plans we’ve had over the years, you’ll see that the Baltimore Avenue project has been included for a long time as an initiative that we support as an organization.”
Bankert said OCDC even commissioned a study back in 2023. Spearheaded by BEACON, the report evaluated Baltimore Avenue and compared an improved portion of the corridor – from 15th Street to 33rd Street – to the unimproved portion between North Division and 15th.
“It showed that property values increased pretty significantly in the north section, more than it did in the south section,” he explained. “So the improved area saw an increase in property value, and therefore an increase in tax base. And when you extrapolate it over a 25-year period or something like that – which is about the period of a bond – the increase in tax revenue could actually pay for the project itself.”
Bankert argued the project would also improve storm resiliency and preparedness, walkability and pedestrian safety in the downtown area. He noted that in some areas of Baltimore Avenue, the utility poles narrowed the sidewalk to two or three feet.
Buas agreed.
“With the increase in tourism, particularly downtown, the widening of sidewalks has to happen …,” he said. “The goal of downtown continues to be a walkable, attractive environment, with an emphasis on the gateway of the town.”
Buas said he too has advocated for the Baltimore Avenue project for years – even when the cost had increased to $40 million – as OCDC’s BEACON study showed the economic impact a prior corridor project along north Baltimore Avenue had on the city.
Now that the city has a federal grant, and that enterprise funds could be used to fund some aspects of the redevelopment project, he said the bond amount would end up being less than it was two years ago.
“I still think it would've paid off in the long run, but the delay was nice, to be honest …,” he said. “It’s really coming together at the right time.”
For Joe Wilson, a 28th Street resident, he said something needed to be done in the areas between North Division and 15th streets, as sidewalks were too narrow to handle pedestrian traffic. He said he uses Baltimore AvSee PUBLIC Page 14
“Pedestrian safety is something that can definitely be improved,” he said. “You walk down some of those sidewalks now, and where the utility poles are, you can’t fit a stroller through that.”
Public hearing eyed for project
enue every day and often bikes along the corridor with his son.
“The project is overdue,” he said in an interview this week. “It’s not a want at this point, but a necessity.”
Wilson said as the city looks to build its shoulder season and turn itself into a year-round destination, it must also consider projects that make Ocean City a more walkable and livable community. He argued that the Baltimore Avenue redevelopment was one of those projects.
“Any improvement we do to downtown will be an improvement to Ocean City’s image as a whole,” he said.
Abandonment, bike path questioned
However, the project comes with its challenges, as city officials earlier this month laid out a complex timeline for getting the project across the finish
line. The city must have a shovel-ready project by Sept. 30, 2027, or the deadline to obligate federal funding.
The city must also address its 31 feet of unimproved right-of-way, which in most cases has been used by adjacent property owners as their own. The city proposes using roughly 10 feet of that to widen the sidewalks and abandoning the remaining 20 feet to those property owners.
“It’s a right-of-way. It’s always been reserved for the town,” Buas argued.
“But when it’s 100 years old, you have to do something that’s fair for everybody.”
The project’s design was also called into question this month, as city officials presented plans for the corridor with no designated bike lane. Ocean City resident Palmer Gillis argues the city “is not looking forward enough to embrace new transportation modes.”
“I think the city is putting the cart before the horse in giving away land we may need,” he said in an interview this week.
Gillis said he believes the streetscape project conducted on north Baltimore Avenue in the 1990s to be the most important public works project ever done in Ocean City. He
said the city now has an opportunity to complete improvements to the corridor, while embracing new types of transportation.
“It doesn’t seem like anyone wants to put a bike lane on this $20 million, or $40 million, Baltimore Avenue renovation,” he said.
Gillis, a member of the plannning commission, added the city was able to complete its streetscape project in the 1990s without abandoning its right-of-way. He said development in “flourished” in the years that followed.
“I don’t think a development is going to succeed or fail over 20 feet,” he said of the abandonment process.
But Buas said the design that is currently on the table “represents a good compromise to the community.” He said redesigning the project now could jeopardize the timeline and, ultimately, the project.
Both Bankert and Wilson agreed.
“I’m a big fan of the phrase ‘don’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good …’” Wilson said, noting the bicyclists can use alternatives such as the Boardwalk or St. Louis Avenue. “I do like the design we have. I’m satisfied with what’s been presented.”
Proponents make case for project
In the coming weeks, the Ocean City Council will hold a public hearing on the project’s right-of-way abandonment. Bankert said OCDC will be there, alongside members and stakeholders, to share their support for the project.
“Any project of this size is going to get more expensive the longer you wait, period,” he said. “Councils in the past have noted the cost of it as being an issue. So they went out, and the town, to its credit, got a massive grant – a $20 million grant – to get this project done. It’s expected to pay for half the cost of it. I feel like after getting that grant, it only makes all the sense in the world to finish out the project, tight timeline or not.”
Both Bankert and Buas said improvements along that stretch of Baltimore Avenue would also encourage developers to buy in downtown Ocean City and property owners to improve their lots.
“It’s not just an expense, but an investment that will grow our tax base … ,” Buas said of the project. “I think now is the right time to make it happen.”
BETHANY HOOPER/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Several downtown residents and representatives are advocating for a streetscape project along a portion of Baltimore Avenue, pictured above.
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Cell tower opposed by Montego Bay citizens
They argue that complaints about connectivity have nothing to do with cell service, but with bandwidth.
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Sept. 26, 2025) A group of Montego Bay residents are denying claims of poor cell phone connectivity and asking city officials to keep any proposed cell towers out of their community.
Since last week’s council meeting, during which officials agreed to evaluate cellular connectivity in town after two Montego Bay residents came forward with their concerns, a group of property owners within the homeowners association has come forward to challenge those residents' claims.
“I think the fact remains that the 5G reception here is great, and the problem underlying here is with the Comcast bandwidth and getting it to the people,” said Montego Bay resident Holly Donovan.
Last Monday, Ocean City residents Mary Jo Breslin and Sandy Kvech came before the City Council with complaints about poor connectivity in their Montego Bay neighborhood.
Kvech said the issue was particularly troublesome for those who live on the water. Breslin also told officials about a neighbor who was having a heart issue and couldn’t get a reliable phone signal to do an online EKG.
“Could we please take a look at this
to see what we can do next?” Breslin asked. “I know cell towers is a bad word, but we are in a gap where we need some sort of technology, be it a cell tower or an antenna. If you want to put it on my property, I am more than willing to have it on my property. I am asking for help from the council to start looking at this.”
The topic was also discussed at a council meeting the week prior, when Council Secretary Tony DeLuca and Councilman Larry Yates – a Montego Bay resident himself – asked the council president to add a discussion on connectivity issues in Montego Bay to a future work session agenda. DeLuca said he wanted to discuss placing a macro cell tower at either Northside Park or another suitable location to alleviate issues on a handful of streets in the community.
“All I’m trying to do is solve an issue that I know we have right now,” he said.
Following citizen comments last week, the City Council agreed to explore connectivity issues, not only in Montego Bay, but in all of Ocean City.
Since that time, however, Donovan and several other Montego Bay residents have banded together to challenge Breslin and Kvech’s claims. Donovan said she had reached out to several neighbors, including those
next to Breslin and Kvech, and found that none had reported connectivity issues.
One of those residents is Melissa Leone, who said she was surprised to read Breslin and Kvech’s concerns in last week’s issue of this newspaper. She said their comments prompted her to write to the mayor and City Council.
“We’re on the water, our neighbors are on the water, and we say no, we have no issues with connectivity,” she said.
Leone said those sentiments were echoed in a gathering of Montego Bay residents Sunday afternoon. She said they all oppose the idea of installing a macro tower in their community.
“A number of people when we had a gathering yesterday, said how can two people think they can tell all of us what we need when we are doing fine with what we have,” she said.
Donovan said she has consulted cardiologists, a Microsoft engineer with expertise in medical transmissions and wireless carrier representatives. She concludes the issue is not 5G coverage, but insufficient bandwidth.
“That’s where we’re having issues, and we need greater bandwidth,” she said.
Residents say towers lower property values
Continued from Page 18
She said over the weekend, two consultants surveyed the streets on the south side of Montego Bay, the area where the two complaints originated. She said they found the cellular signal to be strong over both land and water.
She also noted that medical transmissions, like the one referred to in last week’s council meeting, need a more reliable connection than 5G cellular coverage. She said the doctors she spoke to said patients would need an ethernet connection.
“You can put 100 5G poles in front of this lady’s house, and it won’t help,” she said.
In the days since last week’s meeting, Donovan has written to the mayor and City Council, asking them to work with Comcast to increase bandwidth. She also called on officials to reach out to Montego Bay’s board of directors and ask for a formal vote on cell towers.
“Please continue to protect the integrity, property values, aesthetics, and health of our Montego Bay community by focusing on the true source
of inadequacy: inadequate broadband bandwidth, not cellular infrastructure,” she wrote.
Donovan said she has been a “pioneer” of the anti-5G movement since 2015, when a cell tower was placed near a building her family owned at Worcester Street. She said that property recorded a 30% drop in value in the next tax reassessment. She also pointed to health impacts related to 5G towers.
“I didn’t want it to happen here,” she said of her Montego Bay community. “I didn’t want it at my house.”
Montego Bay has been at the forefront of cell tower discussions since 2021, when the tower construction company Crown Castle came before the city with a request to install such structures in the residential neighborhood. Donovan said more than 1,000 residents signed a petition to stop those efforts.
The following year, the Ocean City Council passed new utility and installation agreements and ordinances that pose strict regulations on all towers put up in city rights of way, easements or properties.
Staff blasted for wastewater fund transfers
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Sept. 26, 2025) Worcester County staffers say funds were moved from Ocean Pines wastewater accounts to cover shortfalls in an escrow account for developers’ projects, exposing local ratepayers to costs they weren’t responsible for.
County Commissioner Chip Bertino sharply criticized county staff as “being asleep at the switch” when he learned through an internal memo that $231,000 had been moved from the Ocean Pines sewerage district to rectify negative balances in other areas.
“I’d just like to know what is going on and how is this allowed to happen,” said Bertino, who represents Ocean Pines, at the commissioners’ Sept. 16 meeting in Snow Hill. “How did this happen to begin with? Why weren’t these balances
being watched and monitored on a regular basis?”
County Administrator Weston Young explained that when a residential development is being built, Worcester County will ask for developers to put money in an escrow account for third-party inspections, because “we don’t always have staff available” for proprietary inspections. If the escrow runs dry, then “we have to keep paying for the inspection,” Young said.
The Ocean Pines water-sewer account is one of 11 such self-sustaining sewerage districts county-wide, called enterprise funds, where revenue comes from residential and commercial customers hooked into the system.
When the treasurer’s office and the former enterprise fund controller encountered situations where the escrow account needed funding, they pulled
money from Ocean Pines’ enterprise account, according to Young.
Bertino wasn’t thrilled to hear that explanation.
“We had a situation where we had developers who should have been on the hook to the county for some things – nobody was watching these balances. And now we’re ending up with the Ocean Pines water/wastewater [fund] footing the bill to rectify this oversight? Is that overall what I’m seeing here?” he said.
Deputy County Administrator Candace Savage told the commissioners they’d learned of the issue about two and a half months ago. She also said county staffers are trying to invoice and collect on past due amounts from developers to replenish the cash in the account.
“Why is it taking two and a half months?” Bertino said. “You don’t have an answer for it, do you?”
Young stressed that the transfers were executed by a county employee who no longer works there and said, “This is all sins of the past. Going forward with our current enterprise fund controller, they were not making those transfers,” Young told Bertino.
“Well, regardless of how it happened, the Ocean Pines service area rate payers are the ones on the hook right now. Am I right?” Bertino replied.
“And we plan to remedy that,” Young said.
Quinn Dittrich, who now oversees the
county’s 11 water and wastewater enterprise funds, said his office is working to fix it and that ratepayers won’t be impacted.
When asked where the money will come from to reimburse the Ocean Pines fund, Dittrich replied, “we’re getting there.”
“I’m not trying to underplay this,” he told the commissioners. “It’s a big problem. It’s a problem and it needs to be rectified. Everyone’s aware that’s playing a part in it.”
Dittrich added that there had been a similar situation with sewerage funds with the River Run district, in the Showell area of Worcester County, which had a negative escrow balance of $46,000 that the county just repaid. He also said future deficits likely would be written off by the county if a developer could not repay it.
Projects that have led to negative escrow balances include the Windmill Creek residential community off Beauchamp Road, Triple Crown Estates in Ocean Pines, as well as projects from Ocean Downs Casino, according to Dittrich. He also said, conversely, that some concluded projects have positive escrow balances.
It’s a hot-button issue because, over the past 12 months, Worcester County has struggled with problematic financial oversight related to its system of water
Young says ‘all sins of the past’
Continued from Page 22
and wastewater enterprise funds.
The county was forced to tap into its general fund to cover a $9 million revenue shortfall across several sewerage districts that weren’t generating enough revenue to cover expenses – an issue that elected officials only learned about after the fact.
Only after months of internal negotiations and subsequent public hearings did the County Commissioners decide on across-the-board rate hikes for water and sewer customers.
In an interview following the meeting, County Administrator Young said county staffers fell behind on chasing invoices
for projects in escrow with developers.
“If we’re not asking for that money and enough time passes, they may no longer be in business – can you even collect that money? That’s basically what happened,” he said.
Young also said while his team opted to notify the County Commissioners as soon as they were aware of the Ocean Pines issue, “I think this is something we should have caught in the budget deliberations six months ago.”
“In general, if we uncover something that’s not being done right, we want to notify them sooner rather than later,” he said. “We identified a problem. We’re already underway in trying to solve it.”
Police prepare for crowds ahead of Oceans Calling
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Sept. 26, 2025) Local law enforcement agencies say they’re ready to handle the influx of massive crowds for this weekend’s Oceans Calling music festival.
While a private security detail from concert promoter C3 Presents will be working inside the concert footprint along Ocean City’s Boardwalk, a cadre of Ocean City police officers will have their own high-visibility presence downtown, according to OCPD Chief Ray Austin. He said both teams will be in constant contact.
“It frees up manpower for us, so we’re able to effectively police the entire community without straining our resources down to one event,” he said. “We are accustomed to dealing with a lot of people. Our officers are very professional, and they know how to handle these types of crowds.”
Police said Oceans Calling, now in its third year, as well as next weekend’s Country Calling event, generally have brought laid-back guests to the resort who aren’t creating too many headaches for law enforcement. About 55,000 ticketholders are expected.
“From past experience, this isn’t like some of our motor events and the issues we’ve had in the past. This is a good crowd that comes in. It’s just really moving, getting people from point A to point B, from the venue back to their vehicles and really managing the traffic – foot traffic and vehicular traffic,” Austin said.
Transportation has proven to be one of the biggest elements to manage for the concerts, according to department spokeswoman Ashley Miller. She said OCPD will have police officers positioned downtown at night to help with road safety and traffic management. Alternate traffic patterns will go into effect each night at 8 p.m.
“We’re trying to make sure we have enough buses available,” she said. “For Oceans Calling, that was a big complaint with people starting to get upset the first year – that anxiousness that buses weren’t moving.”
To help, the promoter has contracted with school bus drivers to provide transportation between the concert venue and the resort’s Park and Ride with dedicated pickup and drop-off areas.
The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office also will be on hand to assist at the concert venue, including both uniformed and undercover officers, and on patrol along the West Ocean City corridor, according to Chief Deputy Nate Passwaters. He said technology will be a big part of policing this event. Law enforcement will be making use of license plate readers and aerial drones with heat vision cameras, as well as Ocean City’s existing system of surveillance cameras.
“There’s not too many places you can go where you’re not on video for that event,” he said.
MONTEGO BAY SAYS “NO” TO 5G CELL TOWERS
MONTEGO BAY IS SAFE
Private testing on south side of Montego Bay on 9.20.25 showed no readings less than -96 dBm. Excellent cell signal on land and water. Medical equipment transmissions require wired ethernet & dependable WiFi NOT cell towers.
Health Hazards from Exposure to 5G Towers as noted by the label.
Headache, Insomnia, Cognitive Fog, Fatigue, Tinnitus, Vision Problems, Heart Issues, Muscle & Nervous System Problems
Retain Your Property Values & Keep 5G Towers out of Montego Bay!
KICKER
Morgan’s Message founder Dona Rodgers, pictured above right addressing event attendees, including Decatur lacrosse and Unified sports coach Lyndsay Owens, was joined by Worcester County Superintendent of Schools Annette Wallace and administrators, teachers and student-athletes at Stephen Decatur High School Sept. 12 in celebrating the grand opening of the dedication wall behind the stadium. Rodgers was the mom of Morgan, a former Division I lacrosse player who died by suicide after
was created in her honor focusing on mental health among student-athletes.
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New mural honoring African American heritage complete
(Sept. 26, 2025) With funding and support from the Maryland Department of Commerce and the Maryland Heritage Areas Authority, the Beach to Bay Heritage Area will unveil a new mural celebrating the Henry Hotel, its owners, and its legacy — along with a tribute to all African Americans who worked in Ocean City to help make it a successful tourist destination.
The project was done in partnership with the Henry Hotel Foundation.
The mural ribbon-cutting and community celebration will take place on Tuesday, Sept. 30 at 11 a.m., next to the Henry Hotel at 101 South Division Street in Ocean City.
The event will bring together residents and visitors to honor the past while inspiring the future. This mural is one of four created to highlight African American heritage across the
Lower Shore. Others include the Reverend Dr. Charles Albert Tindley mural in Berlin, the Frederick Douglass mural in Salisbury, and the Crisfield mural honoring 17 native Crisfielders who made lasting contributions to their community.
“This project is about more than preserving history — it’s about recognizing the stories, people, and places that have shaped who we are today,” said Lisa Challenger, Executive Director of Beach to Bay Heritage Area. “We could not have done it without the Henry Hotel Foundation and the support from Home Depot and Delmarva Veteran Builders for the construction of the mural wall”.
Mural artist Jay Coleman was commissioned to do the work. Coleman has said that he wanted to “make this mural about more than servitude but about resilience and hope and tenacity”.
The mural celebration is free and open to the public. To learn more about the Beach to Bay Heritage Area visit www.beachesbayswaterways.org
2 BR, 2 BA 1ST FLOOR CONDO with DIRECT ACCESS TO DOCK & BAY!
427 14TH STREET
Beautiful condo, completely furnished & turnkey with fantastic views & oversized deck. Updated kitchen with SS appliances. New refrigerator, stove, dishwasher & microwave. HVAC 1 year old. 2 hot water heaters recently replaced. Both BAs updated. Primary BA has walk-in shower. The rental income is impressive & rentals already booked need to be honored. Rare opportunity to own a Harbour Island "1st floor" unit.
Community raises $1 million for life saving equipment
(Sept. 26, 2025) The TidalHealth Foundation announced this week that it has successfully reached its $1 million fundraising goal for the Drive for Mobile Mammography campaign. The milestone was achieved Sept. 15 at a fundraising event at the Ocean City home of Sandy and Palmer Gillis, where donors in attendance contributed $86,300 to officially close the campaign.
This is a rare opportunity to own a 3-BR Bayfront Condo in Harbour Island. Meticulously maintained unit with new flooring. The kitchen has stainless steel appliances & beautiful finishes. Breathtaking open bay views from your primary suite & living area. You have to see it to appreciate it.
The Drive for Mobile Mammography began in October 2023 with initial support from TidalHealth team members, who together pledged $125,000 during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Since then, gifts from individuals, families, and organizations have steadily drove the campaign closer to its goal.
“This mobile mammography unit was funded entirely through community donations,” said Jessica Hales, President of the TidalHealth Foundation and TidalHealth’s Chief Philanthropy Officer. “Every gift was a memory, a tribute, or an honor to someone loved. This initiative touches nearly every life, and it’s inspiring to see our community come together to make breast cancer screening accessible for all.”
OVER-SIZED 2 BR, 2 BA CONDO with PANORAMIC VIEWS
Welcome to prestigious Harbour Island! Rarely do these oversized 2 BR, 2 BA units in the K building come on the market. It is a very nice, clean unit. Panoramic views of the bay & Ocean City. Rental potential would be very good. Jacuzzi tub and a new washer & dryer. This is a "must see" to appreciate the size and the view from the balcony.
427 14TH STREET UNIT 206 M
Your sanctuary awaits! This open bay view, 2-bedroom condo, nestled in the gated community of Harbour Island, welcomes you. This beautiful unit has never been rented. Great rental potential. The unit is immaculate and has been well cared for. The deck provides an unobstructed view of the bay. Sunsets are the best!
Breast cancer screens expand
For each contribution made in honor or memory of a loved one, that name will be proudly displayed on the back of the mobile mammography unit, symbolizing the personal connections and community-wide support that made this effort possible.
The mobile mammography unit is scheduled to be delivered this fall, with a ribbon-cutting planned for late October. Once operational, the unit
will expand access to lifesaving breast cancer screenings by traveling directly to communities across the region, in particular to those traditionally underserved or where social determinants of health make obtaining screening challenging.
More information about the mobile unit, including scheduling details, is available at TidalHealth.org/mobilemammography.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Hope was truly on the horizon as Sandy and Palmer Gillis welcomed guests to their home, where the “final pieces” of TidalHealth’s Mobile Mammography bus were auctioned to raise $86,300 and close the Drive for Mobile Mammography at the $1 million milestone. The campaign’s goal was to bring greater access to breast screenings for the community.
Salisbury selects county officer as new administrator
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Sept. 26, 2025) The City of Salisbury has hired Nick Rice, Worcester County’s procurement officer, as its new City Administrator.
“I am grateful to the Mayor and Council for entrusting me with this opportunity. I look forward to applying my knowledge and experience in efforts that will positively impact the progression of our city,” Rice said in a statement provided by Salisbury officials Tuesday.
Rice has spent the past 12 years in local government, starting in Ocean City with the Parks Department in 2010 and moving into the purchasing department, according to a public work profile.
He then spent six years as the purchasing agent with Wicomico County before moving onto a similar position for Worcester County. Rice was the first person to work as Worcester’s procurement officer, a position that was created in 2022.
Rice represented the county in sourcing, procurement, contract administration, inventory management, vendor management, and other related duties. He worked closely with elected officials and staff to leverage spending and utilize economies of scale.
“I would like to also wish Nick a lot of success. You were our answer to one of my prayers, that you would have your position here. You have done a tremendous job. Thank you and blessings on the new job,” said Commissioner Diana Purnell (District 2, Central) at the Sept. 16 meeting.
A married father of two, Rice makes his home in Salisbury, where he’s also a youth baseball and football coach. He’s a 2009 graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Parkside, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Management. In 2013 he earned a Master of Business Administration degree from Salisbury University.
Mayor Randy Taylor expressed his enthusiasm, saying, Rice comes to the job with a strong foundation in finance.
“Throughout the interview process, I was particularly impressed by his depth of knowledge, steady temperament, and well-earned reputation as a dedicated and hardworking professional – all essential qualities for success in this role,” he said in a statement.
Salisbury’s former City Administrator, Andy Kitzrow, left the job in July for a similar role with Easton. In the interim, Assistant City Administrator Tom Stevenson was subsequently named as acting city administrator while city leaders conducted a search. Stevenson will return to his assistant role once Rice takes over, according to the city.
Nick Rice
Breathtaking Sunsets in completely renovated & beautifully appointed spacious bayfront
offers modern coastal living at
Enjoy a large private balcony with panoramic views of the
- perfect for relaxing evenings and endless sunsets. Every detail has been thoughtfully updated, making this the ideal retreat or investment property. Boat slips are available to rent through COA.
Well-maintained Home nestled on spacious lot that backs to pond with peaceful views & sense of privacy. Bright & airy 3-season room & large deck. Versatile bonus room above garage perfect for home office, playroom, or guest space. Formal Dining Room has tray ceilings. Primary BR also has tray ceilings & has ensuite BA with jacuzzi tub, stand-up shower & 2 sinks. Open layout makes home functional & inviting. Exceptional amenities include pool, community center & sidewalks throughout. Please note that family room, primary BR and Kitchen table are virtually stage.
Artists create landscapes of Worcester, winners selected
(Sept. 26, 2025) Local and regional talented plein air artists painted their hearts out from Sept. 14–19, competing for cash prizes in the annual Paint Worcester County Plein Air Competition, sponsored by the Worcester County Arts Council. Presented in partnership with the Worcester County Library Foundation, the event culminated on Friday, Sept. 19, at the Berlin Library branch with a public Art Sale and Exhibit showcasing artwork created during the week. The sale offered art lovers the opportunity to purchase an original piece of art, fresh off the easel,
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Pictured, from left, during last Friday’s awards portion of the Worcester Plein Air event at the Berlin library branch are Carol Rose, Worcester County Library Foundation; Anna Mullis, Executive Director, Worcester County Arts Council; Mary Beth Carozza, Maryland State Senator; Artists: Rebecca Morgan, Jose Ramirez, Rhonda Ford, Homer Proctor; Ed Lewandowski, Berlin Mayor, Zack Tyndall; William Buchanan, Plein Air Judge; Alex Sousa, WCAC Board of Directors Member-Chairperson of Paint Worcester County; Artist Jiyeong Yun; and Tamara Mills, President of the WCAC Board of Directors.
Original painted works for sale
and meet the artist who painted it.
Completed works were judged by accomplished local artist and art educator, William Buchanan, with a total of $2,800 in prizes awarded.
The winners were announced as following:
First Place: "Sunday's Last Light" by Homer Proctor
Second Place: "Reflecting on the Farm Pond" by Rebecca Morgan
Third Place: "The Yield and the Yonder" by Ed Lewandowski
Honorable Mention: "Dune Bound" by Rhonda Ford
Maryland Legislators’ and Worcester County Commissioners' Choice: "Fishing Boats West OC Harbor" by Jose Ramirez
Library Foundation Choice: "Assateague Welcome Tree" by Homer Proctor
Berlin Mayor’s Choice: "Whispers of Eternity" by John Schisler
Agribusiness Choice: "The Yield and the Yonder" by Ed Lewandowski Artists’ Choice: "Where the Light Lingers" by Ed Lewandowski
WCAC Board of Directors Choice: “Eternal Spirit of the WCAC" by Jiyeong Yun
A selection of paintings created during Paint Worcester County will remain on public display at the Worcester County Library, Berlin branch, until October 22. All artwork
is available for purchase.
“Beyond the excitement of competition, plein air events like Paint Worcester County play an important role in our community,” said Anna Mullis, Executive Director of the Worcester County Arts Council.
“They highlight the beauty of our local landscapes, preserve a visual record of the places we call home, and invite both residents and visitors to see Worcester County through the eyes of talented artists. By bringing artists and audiences together, this event strengthens cultural connections, supports local creativity, and contributes to the vibrancy of our community.”
For more information on exhibited artwork or to make a purchase, please contact the Worcester County Arts Council at 410-641-0809 or curator@worcestercountyartscouncil.org.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC
Cathey Foelber and Taylor Schlette represented the OC Foodie Tour at Heritage Day.
SUBMITTED
Mary Anne Cooper, Sally Whitevishton and Jessica Bauer take
Day.
HERITAGE DAY HELD
The Art League of Ocean City, supported by a grant from the Beach to Bay Heritage Area, held Heritage Day at the Ocean City Center for the Arts on Sunday, Sept. 14. The event celebrated local crafts and delicacies including a decoy carving display that featured Ward Brothers decoys, traditional Boardwalk treats from the OC Foodies Tour, a display of vintage crochet items as well as a class on the artform, raffles, and more. Top are Lauren and William Freng. Left are Katlyn Saville and Dustin Chaney.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Delaney Curtis and Diesal
cow from Saltwater Mini Farm are pictured greeting attendees.
Mary Anne Cooper shows off some of the wares
display at Heritage Day.
OPA Board votes to disband non-required committees
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Sept. 26, 2025) The Ocean Pines Association’s advisory committees, who are charged with identifying needs and possible improvements in their assigned areas, are officially a thing of the past.
The OPA Board of Directors on Saturday voted 5-1 to dissolve most of the association’s committees, effective immediately, despite passionate pleas from association members to spare them.
The association’s bylaws require that the Budget and Finance Committee, the Elections Committee, and the Architectural Review Committee remain intact.
Axed in the purge were the Aquatics Advisory Committee, the Golf Advisory Committee, the Recreation and Parks Advisory Committee, the Environment and Natural Assets Committee, the Strategic Planning Advisory Committee, the Bylaws and Resolution Advisory Committee, the Communications Advisory Committee, and the Marine Activities Advisory Committee.
Board member Jeff Heavner initiated the action by moving to disband the committees. With a second from Director Stuart Lakernick, President John Latham, Director Elaine Brady, Director Rick Farr voted for the motion. Director Steve Jacobs was the sole dissenting
voice. Treasurer Monica Rakowski was absent.
The association’s committees consist of OPA homeowners who pursue projects they believe will enhance specific amenities or sections of association life. These members are all volunteers, many of whom bring expertise — and a resident’s perspective — to their assignments.
But as was demonstrated Saturday, the majority of the board feels that the existence of these advisory panels has become unnecessary, and in many cases, redundant or unproductive. Heavner sent a memorandum to all chairs of the groups on the chopping block ahead of Saturday’s vote.
The director’s statement reads, “the current dynamic (which I believe has existed for some years) has resulted in understandable frustration on the part of the above-listed Advisory Committees, as they seek in good faith to find ways to make contributions to the Association, but their unilaterally formulated ideas and plans may not be practical or feasible and/or in keeping with Board and Management goals and priorities.”
Saturday’s in-person meeting was filled with residents, most of whom came to plead with the board to keep the committees. Some offered to work with
Eight committees are no more
the directors to develop a more productive volunteer system.
Keith Kaiser, a member of the Bylaws and Resolutions Committee, noted that the advisory teams provide a platform for OPA citizens to have their voices heard and serve as an avenue to promote volunteerism.
“Recent national events have taught us once again that if we stop talking, bad things happen,” Kaiser said. “In my opinion, an HOA is the purest form of self-governance that there is. That’s what we’re attempting to do here: we’re attempting to govern ourselves. We do that with volunteers from the people, who are of the people being governed.
“One of the big challenges of doing that is that there are a lot of people who aren’t interested in participating in their governance…but the problem with that is that it makes it easier to take advantage of a community that’s not paying attention … It's incumbent upon those of us paying attention to show up and speak up. Governance of a free society is never easy. The only kind of society that’s easy to govern is a tyrannical one.”
Gary Miller, who chairs the aquatics committee, also urged the board to reconsider. Miller agreed that the current volunteer formula could use some finetuning, but said stronger communications between the board and committees could ensure that projects are in sync with the association’s priorities.
Miller pointed to Heavner’s letter, in which the latter described the interaction between committees and the board and staff as “inefficient and strained.”
“As you said, the lines of communication between the committees and the board and/or management have become ‘inefficient and strained, resulting in unproductive conflict and disagreement,’” Miller said.
“The main reason for this, in my opinion, is due to a lack of communication between the committees and their liaisons and the department the committee was established to help. It should be noted that several committees have made suggestions to improve communication among the committees, the board, and OPA management, including a request that their respective department heads attend committee meetings on a quarterly basis. This would bring the committee up to date on problems or concerns, as well as any new projects that may be planned for the future.”
According to the board, the association’s email, info@oceanpines.org, is the most effective way to share suggestions, instead of relying on the committees. Aquatics committee member Vivian Koroknay, however, countered that an email address is insufficient to bring about meaningful improvement.
“My takeaway is that some members of the board do not see the benefit of resSee PINES Page 42
JOLLY JELLYFISH
BEACH CLUB
Pines board spikes 8 committees
ident advisory committees and see no value in the work that the advisory committees do,” she said. “That’s sad. Really sad. The advisory committees provide a window to the board and to management as to what association members want and what they observe daily in their own community.”
Miller and Linda Yurche, chair of the Communications Advisory Committee, pointed to the successful Ocean Pines Season Kickoff, an event that, for the last two years, has welcomed OPA citizens to learn about the various clubs, amenities, and organizations within the community. The idea for the kickoff, which she and Miller lead, came out of an aquatics committee meeting.
Board members acknowledged the while the kickoff was an outstanding event, it was run by an ad hoc committee
rather than a standing group. Ad hoc committees were mentioned in Heavner’s letter as a possible replacement for the dissolved advisory groups.
Miller and Yurche, however, maintained that while a working group was created to take on the event, the well-attended kickoff would not have been possible without the brainstorming and work of committees that meet regularly.
Despite a dozen residents imploring the board to save the advisory committees, board members argued that they are no longer necessary. The directors also said they are looking at more effective ways to encourage volunteerism in Ocean Pines.
“I know this is a contentious issue and we have a lot of very passionate people that want to volunteer, but we've gotten to the point where we’ve grown, and to where we want to put more of this tal-
ent to use better,” Lakernick said.
“I mean …why can’t these people who are in these committees, why can’t it be a club? Why can’t we have clubs that advise? I mean, agree or disagree, we have talented people; we have groups, one that’s maintaining a graveyard they found. These are not committees … [Eliminating the committees] is a restructuring to make better use of your talent.”
Brady concurred with Lakernick, pointing out that there are thousands of homes in Ocean Pines, and that a reorganization of the volunteer system would make way for more participation.
“I think we all agree that it's not the people on the committees,” she said. “We value every one of them … It's the process that needs to be changed. It needs to be more efficient and effective for everyone.
“There are ways we need to look at to do that at this point. I think that all of you have expertise and a lot of ideas, but we have about 50 people on these committees. We have 8,500 homes. There are a lot of people who aren't participating, but they do have a lot of expertise and additional opinions that can also be heard and are welcome to be shared.
“It is sometimes easier if they don’t have the constraints of attending a monthly meeting. There are other ways that we can look at the process to include everybody and to try to grow those voices.”
Heavner reiterated that temporary teams assigned to specific missions will serve the community better.
“I brought this motion because I believe it's time to try a different approach using ad hoc, working groups, and, as [Lakernick] pointed out, even clubs, where we can still value the expertise and experience of all the association members,” he said.
“I didn't come to this position without talking and listening to a lot of people over the last eight months. I've spoken with existing chairpeople, and I’ve spoken with past chairpeople. I’ve talked to existing committee members, past committee members...and the majority answer is the reason this motion came about is because they supported this.”
Members of the audience interrupted Heavner, demanding to know who these committee members were and why they were not present at the meeting.
Heavner replied, “I have no obligation to share that with you.”
Jacobs, who voted against the motion, said that while he sees value in restructuring committees, he believes their elimination is a last step. He suggested tabling the motion until the November meeting and in the meantime holding an executive council meeting can take place for further discussion. At that time, committees can make recommendations for improving the communication setup, he said. In November, once more information is
New, larger pad for helicopters in Pines planned
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Sept. 26, 2025) A new, larger, and more capable helicopter pad is being installed in Ocean Pines in the near future to accommodate the increased size of modern emergency aircraft.
2At the OPA’s Board of Directors meeting on Saturday, Sept. 20, the community’s general manager, John Viola, presented plans to shift the current helicopter pad outside the neighborhood’s south side fire station about 20 yards away.
A fresh and enhanced landing zone will be created. The county requested the upcoming work, as OP’s existing pad is too small. The anticipated cost to move the helicopter space is $10,000$15,000. The Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department will apply for a grant to cover the project’s price tag.
OPVFD Joe Enste said that the county’s request is to align better with newer, larger helicopters. Over the past few years, the Maryland State Police have updated their emergency aircraft to accommodate a team of four, a patient, and sometimes an additional provider.
“The pad we currently have does not fit appropriately for that kind of helicopter,” Enste said. “They can still land, but it is a challenge. Depending on the wind direction and things like that, there have been instances where the helicopter has slipped off the side of the roadway.”
The current pad’s width is around 25 feet, the fire president added. The recommendation is that these sites be installed in an area of approximately 100x100 feet. Enste said that the new zone will only reach about 40x40 feet, but that it should be enough space for a helicopter to land.
“It’ll be a big improvement,” he said. Additionally, the fire department and county staff are considering following Ocean City’s lead, which has recently installed an IRF (Instrument Flight Rules) landing zone near Northside Park. Enste said that these sites allow helicopters to “use just their instruments to land during bad weather events.”
This inclement weather could include something as simple as excessive wind in one direction, which would impact a helicopter’s ability to fly.
“Having an IFR landing zone would allow pilots to navigate through many more conditions than they normally would,” Enste said. “Right now, they have that on the island, but there is no other spot in the county that has that. There’s a new emergency manager, Director Chris Shaffer, who has taken over at the county level. He’s exploring options to create a site at the north, south, and middle of the county, so that we can have more access to the medevac helicopter, even during inclement weather.”
There is no set timeline for the creation of the new helicopter pad in Ocean Pines.
HALL OF FAME INDUCTIONS
Four former educators were inducted to the WCPS Hall of Fame by the Worcester County Board of Education and Worcester County Retired School Personnel Association (WCRPSA) during the Board of Education meeting on Sept. 16.
William Thomas “Tom” Dorman, Willie C. Jackson, Gwendolyn F. Lehman and Francis A. Ruffo, Sr. became the second class of retirees to ever be inducted into the Worcester County Public Schools Hall of Fame.
Collectively, the class dedicated 126 years to the school system and impacted the entire county with their service to the young people of Worcester. More information about this year’s class of inductees can be on the school system’s Hall of Fame page on its website.
The WCPS Hall of Fame interactive installation was also updated with the new class of inductees. Housed at the Worcester County Board of Education Office, the installation allows visitors to utilize an iPad to navigate a large screen display through the different classes of inductees as they are added each year, and within each class are vignettes of each inductee along with information about their legacy with Worcester County Public Schools.
Pictured, from left, are Board of Education President Todd Ferrante, Dorman, Lehman, Ruffo’s widow Dotty and Superintendent of Schools Annette Wallace.
New fire house start date pushed to winter months
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Sept. 26, 2025) The construction start date for the new fire station planned for Ocean Pines’ south side has been pushed back from fall 2025 until winter 2026, officials said this week.
At the Ocean Pines Association’s board meeting on Saturday, Sept. 20, community general manager John Viola provided an update about the ongoing project to replace the deteriorating firehouse located at 911 Ocean Parkway. That initiative was expected to break ground in October of this year. However, that estimated start date has been pushed back a few months, and the new facility’s actual build-out will begin sometime in the winter of next year.
The replacement of the fire department’s South Side Station has been a long-standing desire of the community. The original structure, now unfit to adequately service the fire team, was built in 1981, said Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department President Joe Enste at a public hearing this summer.
In 1985, a 4,200-square-foot addition was added to accommodate the new EMS side of the department, and in 1987, a 500-square-foot addition was made for administrative offices. However, since those modifications, only minor improvements have been made to the building, such as paintings and replacing kitchen cabinets.
“Structurally, this building has stayed the same as it has been since 1987,” Enste said at the summer’s public meeting.
In addition to drainage issues, leaks, and mold concerns, the old structure’s engine bay doors are only 12 feet wide and not large enough to accommodate the modern, larger fire trucks.
Additionally, the new building will feature the creation of a proper decontamination station, which is currently lacking in the existing facility, and gender-separate bunk rooms that will be spacious enough to accommodate the department’s overnight needs.
Despite the fire station’s construction date being pushed back a few months, the project is still progressing. Viola stated at Saturday’s meeting that the initiative had been seen by Worcester County’s Technical Review Committee during the previous week.
On Oct. 2, the project will be presented to the county government’s planning commission. Viola said that construction permit plans will be submitted following that meeting, and that costs for plumbing and mechanicals will be confirmed by mid-October.
OPA officials will update the community on the South Station’s progress as necessary.
“This [project] is a big one for Ocean Pines,” Viola said.
Who’s Where When
BURLEY OAK
BREWING COMPANY
443-513-4647
10016 Old Ocean City Blvd.,
Berlin
Sat., Sept. 27: TBA
BUXY’S SALTY DOG & DRY DOCK 28
410-289-BUXY
28th Street Coastal Hwy.
Fri., Sept. 26:
Muskrat Lightning
Sat., Sept. 27: Aaron Howell Duo
CAPTAIN’S TABLE
410-289-7192
15th & Boardwalk
In The Courtyard Marriott
Fridays & Saturdays: Phil Perdue
CARIBBEAN POOL BAR
410-289-6181
In The Plim Plaza Hotel
109 N. Atlantic Ave.
Fri., Sept. 26: Ramsey’s Ride & DJ Bobby O
Sat., Sept. 27:
Star Spangled Hustlers & DJ Bobby O
Sun., Sept. 28: Groovejoose & DJ Bobby O
Thurs., Oct. 2: Chris Diller Band
COCONUTS BEACH BAR
410-289-6846
Oceanfront At Castle
In The Sand Hotel
37th & 38th Streets
Fri., Sept. 26: Darin Engh & Beach Bandits
Sat., Sept. 27: Coastal Groove & Mercury Agenda
Sun., Sept. 28: No Hesitations & Moonstone
Thurs., Oct. 2: Full Circle Band
COINS PUB
410-289-3100
28th Street Plaza
On Coastal Hwy.
Fri., Sept. 26: Shortcut Sunny
Sat., Sept. 27: Identity Crisis
CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE
302-988-5000
37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54, Selbyville, DE
Fri., Sept. 26: Brian Bishop
Wed., Oct. 1: Bilenki Duo
CRAWL STREET TAVERN
443-373-2756
Wicomico St., Downtown O.C.
Fri., Sept. 26: DJ KP
Sat., Sept. 27: P-Funk North
FAGER’S ISLAND
410-524-5500
60th St., In The Bay
Fri., Sept. 26: Big Machine, DJ Stinson & 7 Deadlies
Best Beats On The Beach
BIG MACHINE
Fager’s Island: Friday, September 26
LNJ SESSIONS
Purple Moose Saloon: Saturday, September 27
DJ ROBCEE Fager’s Island: Sat., Sept. 27
BRYAN CLARK Fager’s Island: Tues., Sept. 30
WAX Pickles Pub:
BIGLER Harborside:
PHIL PERDUE Captain’s Table: Fridays & Saturdays
SHORTCUT SUNNY Coins Pub: Fri., Sept. 26
DJ GROOVE Fager’s Island: Thurs., Oct. 2
DJ PAPI Purple Moose: Wed., Oct. 1
CARLEY TWIGG Cantina Los Agaves: Tues., Sept. 30
TRIPLE RAIL TURN
DARIN ENGH Coconuts Beach Bar: Fri., Sept. 26
FULL CIRCLE
Harborside: Saturday, September 27
Fager’s Island: Monday, September 29
Coconuts Beach Bar: Thursday, October 2
AARON HOWELL DUO
Dry Dock 28: Saturday, September 27
ON THE EDGE
Jolly Jellyfish Beach Club: Sunday, September 28
HIGHER EDUCATION
Pickles Pub: Friday, September 26
P-FUNK NORTH
Crawl Street Tavern: Saturday, September 27
STRING BUZZARDS
Harborside: Sunday, September 28
Greene Turtle West: Thursday, October 2
BILENKI DUO
Crabcake Factory Bayside: Wednesday, October 1
IDENTITY CRISIS
Coins Pub: Saturday, September 27
Who’s Where When
Sat., Sept. 27:
Other Brother Darryl, DJ RobCee & In Too Deep
Mon., Sept. 29: Full Cicle & DJ TBA
Tues., Sept. 30: Bryan Clark
Thurs., Oct. 2: Dixon Hall & DJ Groove
GREENE TURTLE WEST
410-213-1500
Route 611, West OC
Thurs., Oct. 2: String Buzzards
HARBORSIDE
410-213-1846
South Harbor Rd., West End O.C.
Fri., Sept. 26: DJ Billy T
Sat., Sept. 27: Full Circle & DJ Bigler
Sun., Sept. 28: Pickin’ Party Wednesdays: DJ Billy T
Thursdays: Dust N Bones
JOLLY JELLYFISH BEACH CLUB
443-664-6147
98th Street Coastal Hwy., Plaza Condominium
Fri., Sept. 26: John Schwartz
Sat., Sept. 27: Chris Diller
Sun., Sept. 28: On The Edge
PICKLES PUB
410-289-4891
8th St. & Philadelphia Ave. Fri., Sept. 26:
Higher Education Sat., Sept. 27: Hedrush Sundays: Beats By Styler
Mondays: Karaoke w/ Wood Tuesdays: Beats By Wax Wednesdays: Beats By Madame Dutchess
Thurs., Oct. 2: Justin Taylor Band, George Tyner & Logan Chalk
PURPLE MOOSE SALOON
410-289-6953
Between Caroline & Talbot Sts. On The Boards Fri., Sept. 26: Hedrush
Sat., Sept. 27: LNJ Sessions
Sun., Sept. 28: HFS Band
Wed., Oct. 1: DJ Papi
SEACRETS
410-524-4900
49th St. & Coastal Hwy.
Fri., Sept. 26: DJ Davie, Faith Noel, DJ E-State & The Gab Cinque
Sat., Sept. 27: Whiskeyhickon Boys, DJ Davie, Radio Stranger, DJ E-State, DJ Connair & The Event Horizon
Thurs., Oct. 2: Blake Haley, DJ J-Spin, DJ Davie & Triple Rail Turn
THE WEDGE
410-289-5121
806 S. Atlantic Ave.
Sun., Sept. 28: Jason Lee
Thurs., Oct. 2: Joe Esham
HEDRUSH
Purple Moose: Friday, September 26
Pickles Pub: Saturday, September 27
Dining Guide
■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$
■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted
DOWNTOWN
South end to 28th Street
■ BUXY’S SALTY DOG SALOON
DRY DOCK 28
28th Street, Ocean City, 410-289-0973, buxys.com, drydockoc.com
Destiny has a new home in Ocean City. From the ‘burgh to the beach, Buxy’s is your home away from Pittsburgh. Come see what all the locals already know and have known – Buxy’s is the place to come to meet friends, relax and be social with no attitudes. House specialties include “The” Cheesesteak Sub, Primanti-styled sandwiches, pierogis, egg-rolls and homemade crab dip. Dry Dock also features a full menu with soups, salads, kick starters, pierogis and craft pizza.
■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE
15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, in The Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City 410-2897192, captainstableoc.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
A local tradition for over 60 years featuring hand cut steaks, premium lobster and perfectly prepared regional seafood. Breakfast daily 7:30-11 a.m. Open daily for dinner: Sunday through Thursday, 4-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4-10 p.m. Happy Hour, seven days a week, 4-6 p.m.
■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT
28th Street Plaza and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100, www.coinspuboc.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
American style local restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 25:30 p.m. Sunday’s early bird specials, all day and all night. Happy Hour; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. with food and drink specials. Open Monday through Friday, 2 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 11:30 a.m. Dine-in, carry out.
■ CORAL REEF RESTAURANT & BAR
17th Street in the Holiday Inn & Suites, Ocean City 410-289-2612, coralreefrestaurant.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Enjoy traditional Eastern Shore cuisine and local favorites that are sure to please your entire party! Choose from a selection of house specialty entrees such as sharables, handhelds and seafood. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Featuring specialty rums. Open daily, 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
■ CRAWL STREET
19 Wicomico St., Ocean City, 443-373-2756, crawlstreet.com
Established in 2020 just a short walk from the legendary Cork Bar. Don’t leave without trying the famous wings, but everything on the menu is solid, including flatbreads, tacos, salads, sandwiches and seafood platters. Be sure to check out the live music offerings as the nightlife is top of the line.
■ DISTRICT 24 CRAFT BAR, JAY’S CAFÉ & BLU CRABHOUSE & RAW BAR
2305 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City 410-2893322, district24oc.com
There is more at District 24. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, pastries and coffee at Jay’s Cafe. CRAFT Pizza, Beer & Cocktails at CRAFT Lounge. Fresh Seafood at BLU Crabhouse & Raw Bar. Enjoy an elevated dining experience with great chophouse dishes and charcuterie boards, along with a Wine Spectator Award Wining Wine Menu at Embers Rooftop Restaurant. There is something for everyone at District 24 like live music in the courtyard, mini golf, arcade play and axe throwing.
■ FISH TALES
2107 Herring Way, Ocean City, 410-289-0990, ocfishtales.com
Bayfront marina dining offered here with a huge menu to satisfy guests of all ages. Enjoy a drink from a hanging chair or fish tacos at your table while the kids play in a playground build in the sand. Food and drink menus offer enough of a variety to meet all needs.
■ HARBOR WATCH
806 S. Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City 410-2895121, www.harborwatchrestaurant.com
$$-$$$ | Reservations | Kids’ Menu | Full bar
Celebrating our 41st anniversary with fresh seafood, an award-winning raw bar, mouthwatering steaks and the best view of the Ocean City Inlet and Assateague Island. Open every day. Monday through Wednesday open at 4 p.m. Thursday through Sunday open at 11:30 a.m. Call for banquet and large-party details.
■ PICKLES PUB
706 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 410-2894891, picklesoc.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Easy to find with plenty of free parking, serving lunch, dinner and entire diverse menu until 1 a.m. Also nightly entertainment year-round and a great place to watch all the sports on an ocean of televisions including a giant high-def screen. Also four pool tables on site. Lunch and dinner and entire menu until 1 a.m. Open all year from 11:30 a.m.-2 a.m., seven days a week.
■ PIT & PUB
2706 Philadelphia Ave. and 12701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, pitandpub.com
Ocean City’s home of Pulled Pork and the finest barbecue, the legendary 28th Street Pit & Pub and the Northside Pit & Pub are known for serving up delicious smokehouse specialties. Grab a brew and enjoy the live sports action on one of the big screen TVs. Happy hour daily. Familyfriendly atmospheres at both locations. Weekend entertainment.
■ THE WEDGE BAR
806 S. Atlantic Ave, Ocean City, www.thewedgeoc.com
$-$$ | Full bar
Panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, bay and Assateague Island. Enjoy small plates, sandwiches and grilled burgers. Open every day, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
MIDTOWN
to 90th streets
■ 32 PALM
32nd Street in The Hilton, Ocean City 410-2892525, 32palm.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Elevated cuisine, locally sourced ingredients and allocated spirits are prominently featured in our lounge and dining room. Open year-round for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Routinely updated menus with the highest quality local ingredients for fresh seafood any time of the year!
■ THE BONFIRE
71st Street, Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, 410-5247171, thebonfirerestaurant.com
Celebrating more than 50 years as the best seafood and prime rib buffet in Ocean City. It’s all here – the service, the atmosphere and finest, freshest seafood available and quality meats. Save room for the decadent desserts available as well including homemade donuts.
■ COCONUTS BEACH BAR & GRILL
3701 Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 410-289-6846, castleinthesand.com
A tropical open-air patio steps from the beach. A unique place for lunch or dinner with a menu featuring all the customary items and a few Ocean City-based surprises. Guests can also enjoy beach service for lunch and cocktails. Be sure to check out the daily entertainment schedule.
■ FAGERS ISLAND
201 60th St., Ocean City, 410-524-5500, fagers.com
$$ | Full bar
Dine on the island with an award-winning bayfront restaurant featuring American & Regional dining with a global influence and popular destination featuring impeccably prepared American and Pacific Rim cuisine. Also enjoy our outdoor decks and bar with live entertainment and 32 wines by the glass. A place where the joy of food & the presence of the table are of utmost importance. Dine on fresh seafood and our famous Prime Rib. Enjoy beautiful sunsets over the water. Open 11 a.m. daily. Fine dine at 4:30 p.m.
■ HOOKED
8003 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410-7234665, hookedoc.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
A Common Ground Hospitality concept, a passion driven restaurant group servicing the coastal community. The goal is honor creativity and innovation by design. With passion at the heart of everything, unique dining concepts are paired with honest hospitality and well-made food sourced with fresh local ingredients and seasonal harvests. Craft and full bar available. Open daily 11:30 a.m.
■ LONGBOARD CAFÉ
6701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 443-6645693, longboardcafe.com
$$-$$$ | Full bar
Casual Dining … Refined. Open for lunch and dinner. A wide range of gourmet burgers, innovative tacos, salads and sandwiches to full dinner entrees featuring fresh local fish prepared in a variety of styles, beef, shellfish and pasta. All our sauces, salsas, dressings, etc. are meticulously house made. We use fresh local sources wherever possible and premium ingredients such as our chuck, brisket and short rib custom blended burgers. Closed Tuesday. Call for reservations.
■ MARLIN MOON RESTAURANT
3301 Atlantic Ave., in the Double Tree Hotel, Ocean City 410-289-1201, marlinmoonocmd.com
$$ | Full bar
Winner of the Maryland People's choice award, Marlin Moon continues to offer its famous, locally loved dishes and famous happy hour. Enjoy creatively crafted cocktails, fresh selections from the raw bar and luscious desserts. Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m., featuring drink specials. Breakfast, 7:30-11:30 a.m.; Lite Fare, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Dinner, 4-10 p.m.; and Bar open noon to 11 p.m.
■ SEACRETS
49th Street, Ocean City 410-524-4900, www.seacrets.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Open Sunday through Friday at 11 a.m., 10 a.m. on Saturdays, close at 2 a.m. Enjoy a tropical atmosphere and dine under the palms in our outdoor, kid friendly dining area or try a Seacrets Beachin' Cocktails in the Bay with live music every day open to close. The club is open every night in the summer. Try our famous jerk chicken with homemade honey mustard sauce, Pushcart Trio, a true Jamaican dish or a hearty wrap, sandwich or delicious burger. We have it all at Seacrets.
■ ALBERTINO'S BRICK OVEN & EATERY
13117 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410-2502000, albertinosoc.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Featuring the best brick oven pizza, always handmade with fresh ingredients, Italian-American mouth-watering seafood specialties, traditional Italian pasta dishes, apps, soups and salads. Full bar with large local craft beer selection.
■ CAROUSEL OCEANFRONT HOTEL & CONDOS
118th Street, Ocean City 800-641-0011, www.carouselhotel.com
The Carousel Oceanfront Resort offers a family friendly casual dining experience with their Reef 118 restaurant. Offering dinner Thursday through Saturday from 5-9 p.m., featuring AYCE Crab legs. Serving breakfast on Fridays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. Their new "Go for 2" happy hour features $10 appetizers as a buy one get one free. $1 oysters during all open hours.
■ THE CRAB BAG
13005 Coastal Highway Ocean City, 410-2503337, thecrabbag.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Featuring consistent hot steamed crabs, eat in or carryout. The Crab Bag is also an Eastern Shore style seafood house specializing in preparing and serving the biggest and the best blue crabs available. The extensive menu promises something for everyone. Winter hours, Friday-Sunday, open 11 a.m.
■ CRABCAKE FACTORY USA
120th Street, oceanside, Ocean City, 410-2504900, crabcakefactoryusa.com
Full-service family restaurant, carry-out and sports bar. Outside seating available. Menu selections include prime rib, chicken Chesapeake, steamed shrimp, beer battered fish, real Philly cheesesteaks, burgers, and a kids menu. Casual attire, full liquor bar, no reservations. Open Year Round. World-Famous Crabcakes are served all day starting at 8 a.m. and can be packed on ice for you while you are eating breakfast.
■ JOLLY JELLYFISH BEACH CLUB
9800 Coastal Highway, Ocean City 443-6646147, jollyjellyfishbeachclub.com
Oceanfront bar with casual island style outdoor dining with awesome ocean views focused on cool beach vibes. Open for lunch and dinner and suitable for the entire family. Diverse menu available for every type of diner and featuring a cocktail menu with six housemade kegged cocktails. Every Sunday all summer features a “big deck energy party.” Entertainment daily, 4-7 p.m. Located in the Plaza Condominium with plenty of free parking.
■ VISTA ROOFTOP RESTAURANT
13801 Coastal Highway, located in the Fenwick Inn, Ocean City, 410-390-7905, vistarooftopoc.com
$$-$$$ | Full bar
Enjoy a wonderful meal overlooking the ocean and bay. Some of the most unique views in Ocean City. Steaks, seafood, burgers, soups, salads and lite fare. Happy hour, 3-6 p.m. New this year is a boozy brunch Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Live music.
FENWICK ISLAND
■ CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE
Route 54, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-988-5000, CCFBayside.com
Same award-winning crab cakes and bloody marys. Enjoy waterfront dining. Full-service family restaurant, carry-out & sports bar. Outside seating available. Open daily year-round. Menu selections include crab cakes, prime rib, Philly-style
cheese steaks, various seafood, kids menu plus full breakfast menu.
■ DIRTY HARRY’S
100 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island, DE, 302539-3020, Beach-net.com/dirtyharrys
$ | Kids’ Menu | Full bar
Don’t let the name fool you, the food is home cooking at its finest. Owned and operated by Ginny Swann and family for 19 years. Popular for the breakfast but getting rave reviews for lunch and dinner, too.
■ NANTUCKETS
Route 1, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-539-2607, nantucketsrestaurant.com
Serving the beach great food and spirits for over 30 years. David and Janet Twining will wow you with the finest foods and drinks in the area. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by what one of the coast’s finest dining establishments has in store for guests. Everything here is a house specialty.
■ TWINING’S LOBSTER SHANTY Rte. 54, Fenwick Island, Del., 302-436-2305, twiningshanty.com
Reservations | Kids’ Menu “A funky little place at the edge of town.” Classic New England fare, lobsters, steaks and burgers. Bird watching and magical sunsets await. Open for lunch and dinner. Reservations are suggested.
■ ASSATEAGUE BAR AND GRILL 9636 Stephen Decatur Highway, West Ocean City 443-664-8158, abarngrill.com
$$ | Full bar
Full service, family friendly, casual dining to please everyone. Offering breakfast lunch and dinner with breakfast being served all day. Classic American cuisine with a selection of delicious Maryland favorites. Happy hour everyday from 16 p.m. with bar specials and tasty bites. Daily specials Monday through Friday. Dine-in and carry-out.
■ BREAKFAST CAFE
12736 Ocean Gateway, Route 50 east, West Ocean City, 410-213-1804, breakfastcafeofoc.com
All the traditional breakfast options available here in a casual, diner setting. Open daily closing at 2 p.m.
■ CANTINA LOS AGAVES MEXICAN GRILL 12720 Ocean Gateway #7, West Ocean City 410-390-3914, cantinalosagaves.com
$$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar
Ocean City’s newest Mexican restaurant and bar. Offering delicious and generous portions of the tastiest traditional and not so traditional #MexicanEats you have ever tried. Open daily at 11 a.m. Serving food until 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Bar open til 11 p.m.
■ DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND
West Ocean City: Route 50 east; Boardwalk locations: 501 S. Philadelphia Ave., 49th Street, 123rd Street, Ocean City, dumsersdairyland.com
This classic ice cream shop is a tradition for many families. Voted O.C.’s “Best Ice Cream” for the past 20 years, Dumser’s is celebrating decades of serving the shore, and the ‘40s-style décor takes you back in time. With locations throughout Ocean City, treating your tastebuds to this signature homemade ice cream is easy. The 123rd Street location offers lunch and dinner menus in addition to a wide variety of ice cream treats.
■ GREENE TURTLE WEST Route 611, West Ocean City, 410-213-1500
Proudly serving West Ocean City since January 1999, The Greene Turtle features a beautiful 80seat dining room, large bar area with 54 TVs with stereo sound and game room with pool tables. With an exciting menu, The Greene Turtle is sure to please with delicious sizzling steaks, jumbo lump crab cakes, raw bar, homemade salads and more. Live entertainment, Keno, Turtle apparel, kids menu, carry-out.
■ HARBORSIDE BAR & GRILL
12841 Harbor Rd., West Ocean City, 410-2131846, weocharborside.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Home of the original Orange Crush drink with an extensive menu offers a wide variety of appetizers, fresh seafood, steak & pasta entrees, as well as juicy burgers and sandwiches. Whether seeking a full dining experience or just a crush or two, the team will be sure to take excellent care of you and yours. Monday-Wednesday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thursday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. ■ OC DINER 12744 Ocean Gateway, Rt 50 east, Ocean City, 410-390-5112
Family owned for over 25 years. Serving the best homemade food. Local’s favorite. Breakfast served all day. Kids’ menu. Dine-in and carry-out. Open 7 days a week.
UPTOWN 91st to 146th streets
WEST OCEAN CITY
Try a wine glass antipasto topper
By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer
(Sept. 26, 2025) Retirement, how sweet it is!
Time to entertain is more prevalent than ever. The latest study by McCormick indicates eating at home is more popular than ever. That being said, antipasto is a fun way to start your festivities. First things first, what is antipasto? The notorious Italian appetizer is rich in tradition and is a gorgeous platter that beseeches continuous consummation until complete contentment gratifies one’s state of being.
Before furtherance can continue, a brief review of the basics maintains clarity. What is the difference between antipasto and antipasti? Simplicity has graced the notion of curiosity. Antipasto is singular and refers to one dish or starter, while antipasti is plural and refers to multiple dishes or a platter of starters.
Antipasto is an assortment of meats, cheeses, fruits, veggies, and olives. It is meant to be shared and can be made in advance which is always a good thing. While there are many different kinds of antipasto, protocol dictates formality which specifies that hot ones should be served before a light meal and cold ones before a substantial course. Diversification peaks interests and validifies purpose intended.
The visual aspect of an antipasto dishes is crucial; presentation is the secret ingredient as our appetite flourishes with the seasoning of imagination. A skillful blending of colors, flavors, textures, and garnishes are understood when preparing a platter of antipasti.
Color is a key element when resenting antipasto. This dish is not only delicious but is a feast for the eyes. Black olives, red peppers, green cornichons, golden artichoke, and white pickled onions are just few colors that mesmerize one’s sensorial experience.
Height is another important aspect of antipasto. Height is the first thing your eyes notice when focusing on food. Place some bread sticks in a drinking glass for a more stunning presentation.
Variety and contrast are a must when building your antipasto. Opt for a mix of cheeses like a milky mozzarella or a firm Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.
It is imperative to keep in mind how the antipasto combines with the dishes that follow.
For example, let us suppose that pate di tonno (tuna pate) is offered as part of your antipasti. Your first consideration is how you can present the tuna pate as a stunning, well composed dish that can stand on its own and at the same time coincide with the rest of the platter.
Fresh parsley, lemon slices, and olives not only make a stunning picture but offer a fantastic array of color and taste to
the smooth consistency and neutral colors of the pate.
Your second concern will be matching the tuna pate with the main course. Remember, every component of the tuna pate must be considered when making your choices.
Baby artichokes stuffed with ricotta and parmesan cheese would be a tasty follow up course. The melted cheese and artichokes would pair perfectly with the elements of the tuna, lemon, and olives.
Parppardelle with rabbit sauce would also blend with the richness of the tuna and olives and the acidity of the fresh lemons. Even something as simple as a white pizza would combine beautifully with the tuna pate.
Wine glass toppers are the latest craze. These “coasters” are placed on the top of
the wine glass and adorned with various foods. They are also a great way to keep those irritating nats from getting into your wine.
If one relishes the thought of antipasto, consider serving wine glass antipasto toppers. Trust me, this whimsical presentation will have your guests talking for months.
No set rules, just use your favorite Italian ingredients. But it is imperative that each wine glass antipasto topper is arranged the same way.
These wine glass toppers can be purchased online but are not limited to antipasto. Fresh fruit and mini desserts can be placed on a wine glass topper that is fortified by a base of dessert wine. As you can see, the list of possibilities is endless.
In conclusion, sometimes the smallest
detail can pivot your meal into the most memorable occasion. Wine glass antipasto toppers will do just that. Enjoy! Secret Ingredient – Color
The soul becomes dyed with the color of its thoughts.
- Marcus Aurelius
(The writer is the author of “An Eastern Shore Special: Recipes from the Heart.”)
vanishing vanishing OCEAN CITY
With BuNk MaNN
The English Diner opened in 1939 on the corner of Wicomico Street and Baltimore Avenue. Moved to 21st Street and Philadelphia Avenue in the last 1950s, it was one of Ocean City’s most popular family restaurants.
It was known as “Little City Hall” for the daily breakfast gatherings of Ocean City’s political elite during the years that Hugh Cropper, Harry Kelley and Roland “Fish” Powell served as mayors.
The English Diner was demolished in November 2005 and the Mariner’s Watch condominium was built on the site the following year.
Things I Like...
By Steve Green
Losing sleep for a Ravens win
Old computers that are still fast
New furniture that feels old
A dinner party with a stacked charcuterie board
Berlin’s Friday night Fiddlers concerts
Free stuff through the Dunkin app
Sports talk radio on a solo road trip
Smelling the ocean before seeing it
The festival concert set up process
When teens handle a sports loss well
A rental car that seems new
by Bunk Mann from Nov. 6, 2005
To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com.
Photo
Delaware
Acadia Landing LEWES, DE
Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Upper $400s
ballenger creek HARBESON, DE
Coming Soon Single Family Homes
Bridgewater SELBYVILLE, DE
Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Mid $500s
deer creek LINCOLN, DE
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forest landing ELLENDALE, DE
Coming Soon Single Family Homes Toownhomes
four winds farm LTTON, DE
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High Tide at lighthouse bay
OCEAN CITY, , MD
Final Opportunity Toownhomes from the Mid $700s
Heritage creek LTTON, DE
Final Opportunity Single Family Homes from the Upper $400s
rtty east MILLSBORO, DE
Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Low $400s
Milos Haven FRANKFORD, DE
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Newdale acres ELLENDALE, DE
Now Selling Single Family Homes and Toownhomes from the Upper $200s
Pelican Point MILLSBORO, , DE
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rtton Chase MILLSBORO, , DE
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lakeside at trappe
TRAPPE, MD
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the oaks GEORGETOWN, Coming Soon Toownhomes
vines creek crossing FRANKFORD, DE
Coming Soon Single Family Ho Toownhomes, and Villas
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MILLSBORO, , DE
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by Steve Green
The Adventures of Fatherhood
(The following is a reprint from Oct. 29, 2021.)
It’s school picture time, which is not exactly a favorite for the 13year-old kid of the house.
Expecting the worst, I have no doubt we will be disappointed when these photos arrive in a few weeks of at least one of the boys. Considering Beckett doesn’t like to show his teeth when he smiles now (despite a year of Invisalign) and likes his hair down covering his green eyes, I am keeping my expectations low for next week’s picture day for Beckett.
Carson had his photo taken on Tuesday, and he seems to really like putting on a nice shirt for his picture each year. He even practiced his smile for me several times, asking in his nonverbal way if he was good with a thumb up or thumb down. Of course, he got a huge thumb up from me. Years from now, little will we remember he was wearing athletic shorts and no socks and holding two stuffed animals in his lap.
No matter how the pictures turn out with these two boys, the pictures will be keepsakes for years to come and get their places on the Lifetouch wall at home and around my office. The pictures from their early grades bring on the “awe” moments these days. I’m wondering what the middle school pictures of them will conjure in future years. Maybe some head shakes and bewilderment, but it’s all good. Snapshots in time are priceless.
here is a big difference between a closed door and a locked door.
We have no problems with our kids closing their bedroom doors, but we dislike a locked door so much we removed the dead bolts on their doors within a month of moving into our new house. There should be no option on that front in our opinion.
It’s interesting to read up on the closed-door dialogue as many parents frown on them entirely. There are a wide range of opinions on the subject. We are fine with Beckett, 13, closing his door at home. We do insist he keep his door open when friends are in his room.
Another topic with varying parenting approaches is knocking on a teen’s door before entering. We try to knock on Beckett’s door before we enter. It’s more like a knock/open than it is a knock and await permission. It’s like a couple seconds of courtesy before we are in the room. We do not knock and wait for permission to enter. At 13 years old, there is no need for him to have that degree of privacy. Some say that’s the wrong approach, while others agree.
This is the thing about parenting. We all get to raise our kids how we wish based on our own morals, knowledge of our kids and backgrounds. There are lots of different ways to parent and oftentimes it’s singular to the individual person being raised. We don’t parent Beckett and Carson the same way, but it’s largely due to the latter having special needs. Even in neuro typical families I am close with, they treat their similar-aged kids different based on their personalities, maturity, trustworthiness and attitudes.
I learned through this parenting journey a major pet peeve of mine is judgmental parents. Unfair judgements are made far too often. There should be a recognition most of us all have our struggles and we all are committed to doing the best we can for our children. It’s none of my business if a neighbor in one direction allows their teens to keep their doors closed and if the other in a different direction finds that practice appalling. We need more acceptance in my opinion. We need to come together and lift each other up, rather than criticize and judge when we don’t know the details of the different journeys being charted.
On the topic of closed doors, a blog on the site thesuccessfulparent.com discusses this topic at length. A highlight was this passage, some of which I agree with and some of which I don’t. It’s about awareness and it’s interesting:
“Privacy is a strong need for teens. They need room to try out the various aspects of their personalities, select traits that help build an identity, and test ways to participate in the culture. One of the ways teens can experiment with privacy in a fairly safe manner is within the space of their own rooms. We suggest that you allow your teen the experience of being alone with himself while being able to maintain boundaries against intrusion by others, including you. The general suggested rules are that teens are allowed to close their doors while alone, or with friends or siblings. … Secondly, it is important that anyone who wants to enter the teen's room knock first and wait to be invited in before entering. This is a very important one. Many parents knock, but they enter while in the process of knocking which is close to entering with no warning. None of us like that sort of intrusion and we generally react with anger. Give your teens the same courtesy you expect from them. As budding adults, teens need both emotional and physical privacy. … Privacy is important, but it does imply responsibility. Teens don't tell their parents everything, nor should they. At the same time, a general sense of trust along with limits that protect teens from danger must be facilitated. Your best bet is to spend a lot of time getting to know your teens, discussing their ideas as well as problems, and establishing a strong bond that is based on caring and understanding …”
(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.)
Welcoming the time of year some call ‘surf season’
By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer
(Sept. 26, 2025) Depending on one’s viewpoint we are “officially” in the autumn season. Meteorologists, those that study weather as a science, consider the fall season as the months of September, October and November. Weathermen, which is more informal, would be those in broadcast and the media. Not all weathermen are meteorologists though both should have enough knowledge to produce forecasts.
Astronomically the first day of the fall season, this year, fell on Sept. 22. This is also known as the Autumnal Equinox or the time when the Earth is tilted to a degree of equal daylight and night.
These points of interest can become rather minuscule though interesting. Generally speaking, surfers, in time, will become at least amateur meteorologists or weathermen. The interest lies in the wind, with wind as a necessary factor in the creation of waves. The astute surfer will always be concerned with wind direction and velocity.
There is a difference with winds created from ground swell and wind swell. 100 miles from shore, out to sea, is a general threshold or borderline. Waves created from winds 100 miles out would be thought of as ground swell. Waves created from winds inside this general 100-mile borderline would be considered wind swell. Most of the time waves are a combination of both.
Another aspect of the fall season is known by some as a “surf season” — the air and water remain relatively warm plus tropical weather can help waves.
We’ll see what develops. Hopefully this Fall season will be a good one with surf able waves, favorable winds and pleasant weather.
Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City
N.J. RESIDENT WINS
BAHAMAS VACATION
Throughout the summer season, the Coconuts Beach Bar & Grill at the Castle in the Sand Hotel held a Tipsy Tuesday Contest. Each of the week’s winning contestants were entered into a grand prize drawing held last Sunday afternoon. The grand prize is a five-night vacation at the Green Turtle Club in the Bahamas for two people. As is tradition, each of the week’s summer contestants were invited – and given a free night at the Castle — to attend the drawing with the last turtle in the pool declared the winner. Top, musician Aaron Howell picks a turtle during the drawing process. The grand prize winner this year was Deb Vanderwiele of Midland Park, N.J., right, reacting to her turtle not being picked, meaning she won. Pictured, above right from left, are Jeff Hicks, food and beverage manager; winner Vanderwiele; Patricia Smith, director of sales and events; and Olivia Tracy, manager. STEVE GREEN/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Ocean Pines commits to cell tower project
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Sept. 26, 2025) An update on the proposed cell phone tower for the Ocean Pines Association was provided this week, as community officials, carriers and the construction company hope to get the project underway soon.
Ocean Pines Police Chief Tim Robinson, who is leading the project, said he plans to inform the cell tower building company, Milestone Towers, this week that OPA wants to proceed.
Poor cell phone reception in Ocean Pines has been a persistent issue for the community for years, and Robinson noted last year that calls, including 911 emergency calls, were dropped frequently during busy holidays and summer weekends.
As a result, the association, in collaboration with Milestone Towers and carriers Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T, has its sights set on a 143-foot cell phone tower behind the maintenance facility at the Ocean Pines Golf Course. Officials said this location was deemed the most viable due to its centrality.
At the OPA Board of Directors meeting on Saturday, Paul Plymouth, director of state and local engagement for Verizon, provided an update to the board about the cell tower’s capacity and how the structure would enhance service for Ocean Pines residents and visitors.
Plymouth said a previous map indi-
cating that people who lived the closest to the tower — within a one-mile radius — would derive the most benefit did not fully show the tower’s reach.
He said the map was more technical and was to be used internally, when the fact is most Ocean Pines residents would see a noticeable improvement in their cell phone reception.
“I think in the old maps, folks were focused on just the one-mile radius, and we were saying, ‘hey, no, there is going to be a larger benefit than just the onemile radius,’” Plymouth said.
Plymouth added that he had recently received a question from Robinson about the possibility of building a higher tower and whether that would result in improved coverage for a larger area. He told the directors that his team is considering increasing the proposed 143-foot structure to 175 feet.
However, anything more than 175 feet could have a detrimental impact on the community, Plymouth added, so it is something his group is evaluating cautiously.
“Anything higher than [175 feet], believe it or not, tends to do more harm than good,” Plymouth said.
He noted that two other towers are nearby and said if the new structure is too large, it could disrupt the cell reception system.
If the plans for the proposed tower
are revised to build up to 175 feet, Plymouth has said that that update will be provided to the community.
Board members emphasized the importance of cell phone reception, particularly in terms of safety and the ability to reach emergency personnel. John Latham, board president, asked Plymouth if the use of temporary equipment was considered to improve service during the planning, permitting, and construction phases of the proposed cell tower. The work is estimated to take approximately 18 months or more.
Plymouth said Ocean Pines reception is “nearly unusable” and fixing it requires
CROSSWORD
a holistic, drastic measure, such as a tower, and that smaller, quick fixes are likely not feasible.
“Unfortunately, there is not much that can be done right now because of how bad the current state of the network is for the area,” Plymouth said. “... In terms of implementing supplemental measures for the network deployment, such as having some existing towers focus a bit more on Ocean Pines, that’s unlikely to have any appreciable impact.
“That would be the equivalent of losing about five to ten pounds, not bad if
HOROSCOPE Network issues in OP discussed
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
Partnerships require extra attention this week, Aries. Focus on clear communication and mutual understanding. Compromise will lead to positive outcomes in all situations.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
This week your health and wellness comes into focus, Taurus. Consider a new exercise program or make adjustments to your diet. It’s also a good time to get organized.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Gemini, you might feel a surge of inspiration related to hobbies, artistic pursuits or even your social life. Embrace all of the creative endeavors that will come your way.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
You may find yourself redecorating or enjoying quiet time in the house, Cancer. Your life right now puts a strong focus on domestic pursuits and you may spend more time at home.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, your mind is sharp and curious. Consider taking a class or joining a group hobby you find engaging. This week largely will be about local connections.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
Virgo, financial stability is a key theme in your life right now. Review your budget and look for practical ways to save money. You also may have to seek ways to boost your income..
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
This week is a great time for self-improvement and setting new goals, Libra. Project confidence when interacting with your professional network, and pursue what matters to you.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
You are comfortable being out of the spotlight, Scorpio. This will serve you well when you spend some time in quiet reflection this week. Look inward and assess your goals.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
Connect with your friends or community and take part in group activities that bring you joy, Sagittarius. You might just find new inspiration to widen your social network.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Your professional life takes center stage this week, Capricorn. Opportunities for recognition and advancement may pop up. Showcase your people skills.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
Aquarius, broaden your perspective. This is a fine week for learning new things or engaging with novel ideas. Embrace any challenges that get you thinking.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
Pisces, you might be dealing with financial matters that require collaboration with family members. It is important to have open conversation before reaching any conclusions.
Continued from Page 56
you’re looking to lose a little weight. Still, if you need to lose a significantly higher amount, like 100 pounds, you have to do something drastic in the form of diet and exercise …something serious needs to be done in the form of alleviating the stress of the network.”
Latham questioned whether cell carriers are doing enough to help the community alleviate its connectivity issues.
“We’re struggling here,” the president said. “I just hope it’s not a function of AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon not wanting to step up and saying, ‘Hey, Ocean Pines folks can wait.’ If there’s anything, we would like to pick up every rock and try to figure out if there’s a way.”
Plymouth replied that the Ocean Pines network problem is too serious to be amended with temporary measures. The solution is to simply wait for a cell
tower to be implemented, he said.
“You guys want something for now until the date of tower construction and tower completion, and we don’t realistically have something like that that will be able to support [Ocean Pines] for that longer period of time,” he said.
However, Plymouth added that COWs (cell on wheels), portable cellular base stations mounted to a truck or trailer, could be requested by the association for short-term use, such as the Fourth of July celebration or other festivities. This equipment can be used for just a day or a weekend.
“If you do have events that are going to have a swell of people coming into a dense environment, we can begin the process of requesting some support for that,” Plymouth noted.
While all parties appear to be eager to proceed with the tower project, the
board has not yet voted on the matter. However, Latham said that the governing body is “ready to move forward. We don’t want to be holding this thing up.”
Robinson said he would inform Milestone Towers this week that OPA is ready to get the ball rolling. Local and statewide permits must still be obtained, however. Plymouth said that when it comes to seeking these licenses, Del. Wayne Hartman (R-38C, Worcester) is aiding the process and hopes to expedite things “from a state and local level.”
Equipment like steel and other supplies must still be ordered, and due to supply chain issues, Plymouth added that the timeline for that “is what it is” and cannot be accelerated.
Director Rick Farr pushed back on that, saying that when it comes to safety, there are workarounds to receive materials quickly.
COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
DAR VISITS SNOW HILL
General Levin Winder Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) promotes Constitution Week through distribution of posters to Worcester County Library branches with a monthlong display in the Ocean Pines branch showcase and obtaining proclamations from the mayor of Snow Hill and the Worcester County Commissioners. The public is encouraged to use this week by becoming better about the Constitution, a living document that upholds and protects the freedoms central to our American way of life. Proclamations were obtained from the mayor of Snow Hill and Worcester County Commissioners. Pictured, from left, are Snow Hill Town Council member Margaret Ann Fletcher, General Levin Winder Chapter Regent Sharon Moak, Snow Hill Mayor Janet Simpson, member Pat Arata, Council member Aaron Lumpkins, Council member Edward Lee.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
ROTARY CLUB DINE AND DONATE
Don's Seafood & Chophouse sponsored a Dine & Donate with the proceeds going to the Ocean City Berlin Rotary Club. Pictured, from left, are Gina Shaffer, past president; Tom Sweeney, president-elect; Margaret Mudron, co-president and treasurer; Brandy Castaneda, Don's general manager; and Cluff Berg, co-president. The club meets the first and third Wednesday of the month, at 6 p.m. at Don's.
FOURTH GRADE NOVEL
OC LIONS DONATE TO HOPE4RECOVERY
The Ocean City Lions Club recently presented a $2,000 donation to Hope4Recovery, a local substance use disorder residential treatment program. Lions Club member Mike Hooper presented the check to Brandon O'Brien, the program's executive director. The donation will help fund essential upgrades and projects that directly benefit residents.
KINDERGARTEN’S KIND ENERGY
Students in Mrs. Engh's kindergarten class at Ocean City Elementary are learning to bring kind energy to the learning space each day. Students created rainbow paper using markers and water to recreate the Rainbow Fish, who learned how good it feels to share kindness with others. Pictured from left are Gabby Larkin, Nash Bounds and Lucy Gilday.
COASTAL HOSPICE DONATION
Coastal Hospice representatives recently spoke to the Ocean City Lions Club about their organization, its history and the need for community volunteers. Pictured receiving the $2,000 donation are Outreach Liaison Kelly Lund, OC Lion Bill Christmas and Volunteer Services Manager Jeffrey Gadow.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Students in Mrs. Moeller and Mrs. Graham's 4th grade classes at Ocean City Elementary kicked off the school year with their first novel study, Because of Winn Dixie by Kate DiCamillo.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC
Submit calendar items to: editor@octodaydispatch.com. Submission deadline is 5 p.m. Monday, the week of publication. Local submissions have priority. Area event listings are subject to space availability.
Fri., Sept. 26
OCEANS CALLING
Ocean City Inlet, 809 S. Atlantic Ave., 12-11 p.m. Performers spanning various genres including Weezer, Fall Out Boy, Noah Kahan, and Green Day; gourmet food; amusement park rides; games; and more between stages. Tickets: www.oceanscallingfestival.com.
FAMILY FUN NIGHT BINGO NIGHT
Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 6 p.m. Parents are requested to play the games with their children. Admission fee is $5. Food and drinks welcome. Ice cream will be sold. Prize donations accepted. No cash prizes. 410-641-7052
OC MAHJONG CLUB
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Join in for a fun morning of playing tile Mahjong. Feel free to bring your own tile set. All adults welcome. 410-5241818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
SURVIVAL SPANISH: NUMBERS
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Learn vocabulary for numbers in Spanish. 410208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
DISCOVERY DEN AFTERSCHOOL PROGRAM
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 3:304:30 p.m. Come enjoy a new topic every week. Week 1: Art Studio. Best for elementary and middle school students, but all are welcome. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
SIPPIN’ WITH SLOTHS
Coastal Wilds, 34215 Peppers Corner Road, Frankford, 6-8 p.m. Cost is $40 and includes sloth encounter, self-guided tour, and one complementary glass of wine. Tickets: https://book.singenuity.com/469/activity/details/2284/rates. 302-829-1548
KIGHTS OF COLUMBUS BINGO
Fridays - Knights of Columbus, 9901 Coastal Highway, behind St. Luke’s Church. Doors open at 5 p.m., bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. Light snacks available before bingo and at intermission. 410-524-7994
Sat., Sept. 27
OCEANS CALLING
Ocean City Inlet, 809 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City. 12-11 p.m. Performers spanning various genres including Weezer,
Fall Out Boy, Noah Kahan, and Green Day; gourmet food; amusement park rides; games; and more between stages. Tickets: www.oceanscallingfestival.com.
ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BREAKFAST BUFFET
Whaleysville United Methodist, 11716 Sheppards Crossing Road, Whaleyville, 7-10 a.m. Buffet will include pancakes, bacon, sausage, scrapple, scrambled eggs, chipped beef, hash brown potatoes, toast, fruit and assorted beverages. Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children.
LIBRARY CARD WALLETS
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 11 a.m. It’s Library Card Sign-Up Month, and you may need a safe place to keep your new card. Come make your own library card holder. For ages 6-11 years. 410-6410650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
ANNUAL MEN’S FASHION SHOW
St. Paul United Methodist Church, 405 Flower St., Berlin, 6 p.m. Free will offering and refreshments.
OCEAN PINES FARMERS & ARTISANS
MARKET
Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods. Also featuring family-friendly activities, music and unique shopping experiences. Open to the public, year round. 410-641-7052, https://www.oceanpines.org/web/pages /farmers-artisans-market
Sun., Sept. 28
OCEANS CALLING
Ocean City Inlet, 809 S. Atlantic Ave., 12-11 p.m. Performers spanning various genres including Weezer, Fall Out Boy, Noah Kahan, and Green Day; gourmet food; amusement park rides; games; and more between stages. Tickets: www.oceanscallingfestival.com.
BERLIN FARMERS MARKET
Sundays - Pitts Street, Commerce Street and Main Street, Berlin, May through October, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine. Producers only market featuring more than 50 farmers, food cultivators, bakers, distillers, seafood, meat and more. Also featuring a petting farm (9-11 a.m.), free kids art station and live music. TheBerlinFarmersMarket.com
SEWING FOR A CAUSE
Sundays - Buckingham Presbyterian
Church, 20 S. Main St., Berlin, 10:30 a.m. to noon. Learn how to sew while making a difference. 410-641-0234
JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING
Sundays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 10 a.m. www.jw.org
Mon., Sept. 29
STORY TIME: GOSSIE AND FRIENDS
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Crafts, songs and stories. For children ages 0-5 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
COLONIAL CRAFTS
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4:30 p.m. Create your own quill pen and explore the traditional technique of tin punching. Learn how everyday items were made in the 1700s. For ages 6-11 years. 410-6410650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
INTRODUCTION TO ACUPUNCTURE
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5:30 p.m. Dr. Brooke Bochinski LAc., DOM, from Sea Wellness Acupuncture, teaches this introductory class. 410-632-3495,
www.worcesterlibrary.org
THE DELMARVA CHORUS OPEN HOUSE/GUEST NIGHT
Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 6-8 p.m. All ladies are invited to attend and spend an evening learning all about the chorus. Fun, smiles, laughter and goodies are guaranteed. Elissa, 410-641-8050, www.delmarvachorus.org
AMERICA’S BOATING COURSE
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 6-9 p.m. Class held Sept. 29, 30 and Oct. 1. Cost is $28. Free to high and middle school students. Meets all state requirements. Register: Michael Alpaugh, 302-2189474, alpaughmt@gmail.com.
T.O.P.S. OF BERLIN - GROUP #169
Mondays - Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 5-6:30 p.m. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a weekly support and educational group promoting weight loss and living a healthy lifestyle. Rose Campion, 410-641-0157
BRIDGE
Mondays - Ocean City 50plus Center, 104 41st Street, Ocean City, 12:30-3:30
Continued on Page 60
SHOP WILL RE-OPEN FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3RD.
10am-2pm
Continued from Page XX
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. Elissa, 410-641-8050; on social media; or delmarvachorus.org.
OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS
Mondays - Worcester County LibraryOcean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 7-8 p.m. No dues or fees. 410-459-9100
Tues., Sept. 30
STORY TIME: APPLES
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 10:30 a.m. Crafts, songs and stories. For ages 0-5 years. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org
SENSORY STORY TIME
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Story time geared for ages 0-5 years featuring seasonal themes designed to support early literacy skills with stories, songs and finger plays. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
BABY TIME
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Songs, rhymes and stories. Stay after to socialize with other families. For ages 0-2 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
OC KNITTING GROUP
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Do you love to knit or crochet? Bring whatever project you happen to be working on. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
AROMATHERAPY WORKSHOP
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Learn how essential oils have been used for a variety of health issues. Create your own custom fragrances and use them to create three personal aromatherapy items. Registration required: 410-524-1818.
TEEN ADVISORY COMMITTEE INTEREST MEETING
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30 p.m. Need service learning hours? Enjoy some pizza as the group talks about teen programs at the library. For ages 12-18 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
THE ART OF STORYTELLING
Art League of Ocean City Center for the Arts, 502 94th St., 6-8 p.m. Featuring author Stephanie Fowler, dancer Fiona O’Brien and musician Will Fothermel and writer Gwendolyn Lehman. Free event with refreshments provided. https://artleagueofoceancity.org, 410-524-9433
CROSS FARMS POP-UP FARMERS MARKET Tuesdays - Flower Street Field across
from Henry Park, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Accepting Maryland Department of Agriculture FMNP (WIC & Seniors) Checks and Maryland WIC Fruit & Vegetable Checks. Also offering a "Produce Bucks" program, which doubles purchases for eligible residents. https://www.facebook.com/theberlinfarmersmarket.
BEACH HEROES-OC
Tuesdays - Volunteer beach clean-up group meets from 9-10 a.m., year-round. Trash bags, grippers and gloves provided. Check the Facebook page “Beach Heroes-OC” for weekly meeting locations. All are welcome.
JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING
Tuesdays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 7 p.m. www.jw.org
TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY
Tuesdays - Worcester County Health Department, 9730 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3:30-4:30 p.m. TOPS is a weekly support and education group promoting weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. 410289-4725
OC KNITTING CLUB
Tuesdays - Worcester County LibraryOcean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m.
ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE
Tuesdays - Experienced dancers and others interested in watching or learning more are welcome, 7-9:30 p.m. No partner required. Info: TangobytheBeach.com.
ZUMBA TONING TUESDAYS
Tuesdays - Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 5:30 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com
WEIGHT MANAGEMENT AND WELLNESS GROUP
Tuesdays - Holy Trinity Cathedral, 11021 Worcester Highway, 2-2:45 p.m. Use the weight loss program/app/plan of your choice. Free and open to everyone. 410-641-4882, www.htcanglican.org/activities.
Wed., Oct. 1
REGISTRATION DEADLINES FOR COUNTRY LINE DANCE LUNCH
Held on Oct. 3 at Northside Park in Ocean City from 11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Dancing, pizza and drinks. Cost is $8 for Ocean City residents and $10 for non-residents. Register by Oct. 1. 410-250-0125
BLESSING OF THE PETS CEREMONY
Church of the Holy Spirit Episcopal, 10001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 1 p.m. Pets should be on leashes or otherwise under their owner’s control. Any size, shape or type of pet is welcome. You may also bring a picture of a departed pet, or a stuffed animal. 410-723-1973
PUZZLE SWAP
Worcester County Library - Berlin
Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 1-7 p.m. Bring your gently used puzzles and leave with new-to-you puzzles. Don’t have a puzzle to exchange but still want one? That’s OK too. All puzzles must be complete in their original boxes. 410-641-0650
DELMARVA LEATHERNECKS MEETING
Residence Inn by Marriott Ocean City, 300 Seabay Lane, Ocean City, 5:30 p.m. The foundation was formed by local veterans and patriots committed to raising funds and providing services to local veterans and worthy charities. www.delmarvaleathernecks.org
AN EVENING OF SONGS AND STORIES
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 6 p.m. Local singer-songwriters Bryan Scar and Cathy Jane take the stage for a special duo performance. Each sharing their unique journey through music. 410-6410650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
FREE SQUARE DANCE LESSONS
Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 7-8:30 p.m. Adult singles and couples welcome. RSVP: 908229-8799.
FAMILY FUN NIGHTS
Wednesdays (through Aug. 20) - Ocean Pines Yacht Club Pool, 1 Mumford's Landing Road, 6-8 p.m. DJ, games and prizes. Food available for purchase. Admission is $3 for OP swim members, $5 for OP residents, $7 for non-residents and free for non-swimmers. Cash only. 410-641-7052, oceanpines.org
KIWANIS CLUB MEETING
Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. Last Wednesday of the month meetings are offsite and information can be found on the website and Facebook. www.kiwanisofopoc.org.
CASH BINGO
Wednesdays - Ocean City Elks Lodge 2645, 13708 Sinepuxent Ave. Door open at 5 p.m., bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. Food available before bingo and at intermission. Open to the public. 443-605-5028
Thurs., Oct. 2
STORY TIME: FIVE LITTLE PUMPKINS
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Join in for one of Ms. Angie’s favorite stories. Songs, stories and crafts. For ages 2-5 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
STORY TIME: ‘BIG GORILLA’
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and rhymes. For ages 2-5 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
OC CHESS CLUB
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30
a.m. Enjoy a relaxing game of chess every Thursday at the library. 410-5241818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
POCOMOKE BOOK CLUB: ‘KIN: ROOTED IN HOPE’ BY CAROLE BOSTON WEATHERFORD
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 2 p.m. Join in for a lively discussion each month. Stop by the library to pick up a copy in advance. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org
CONCERT ON THE PATIO: STEVE KENNEY
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Hear Steve Kenney’s guitar-powered blend of rock and soul, free of charge, in this outdoor performance. If increment weather, event will be moved inside. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
LEGO MASTERS CHALLENGE
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30 p.m. Join in for a Lego challenge event and enjoy an afternoon snack. All materials provided. For ages 6-11 years. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
DRY PANTRY
Thursdays - St. Paul United Methodist Church, 405 Flower Street, Berlin, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. For those in need of resources such as paper products, laundry products, baby items, and personal care items. Limits apply. 410-641-0270
ONGOING EVENTS
YOUNG HISTORIANS ESSAY CONTEST
Snow Hill library, 307 N. Washington St. Open to middle and high school students. All entries that meet requirements will earn one hour of service larning. Winners in each age group will receive an extra prize. Reach out to history@worcesterlibrary.org for any local history research assistance. Stop in or call for full details. 410-632-3495 Due by Nov. 15.
THE BOO-K BAG
Pocomoke library, 401 5th Street, throughout October. Check out a mystery BOO-k bag. Each pack contains a surprise seasonal title, a sweet treat and a cozy cup of hot chocolate. Return the rating slip for a chance to win a prize. 410-957-0878
Crossword answers from page 56
SEPTEMBER 26, 2025 OC Today-Dispatch 61
MARINE HELP NEEDED
Established Fast-paced RESTAURANT
Is seeking An experienced, year-round
SAUTE CHEF
Send resume/inquire Beacheats2@gmail.com
Must be able to launch and retrieve boats at boat ramp (mainly pontoon boats), power wash boats, service outboards (change oil, spark plugs and winterize). Starting salary $20 per hour. Call 410-213-1383.
CARPENTERS HELPER
OC Home Improvement Co. looking for help with Demo/Light Drywall, Carpentry and Painting. Must have transportation. Text 410-430-5027.
OFFICE ASSISTANT
Local new home builder looking for year round parttime experienced assistant for our West OC office. This person will be working 2-3 days per week, 8-4, and needs to be flexible to cover the office managers days off. A friendly personality, a good grasp of proper communication skills, polite phone manners, punctuality, the ability to work well with others, strong computer skills with experience in word & excel and the ability to multi-task are required. Dress is business casual and salary is negotiable based on experience. Email resume to rhresorthomes@gmail.com No Phone calls please.
PART TIME
MAINTENANCE MAN
Flexible hours. Experience preferred. Nice working atmosphere in a waterfront community. 410-641-5102 Call for interview.
St. Matthew’s by the Sea United Methodist Church in beautiful Fenwick Island is looking for a PT ORGANIST/PIANIST to join our staff! Learn more at smbts.org or call 302-537-1402.
AMERICAN LEGION
Assistant Manager, PM Shift 2 Line Cooks, Part-time. Exp. required. Apply at Post, 2308 Philadelphia Avenue or call 410-289-3166
JOLLY ROGER
Small Engine Mechanic. Ride Maintenance. Year Round. Wage starts at $15/hour & up based on experience. Benefits available. 410-289-4902
OFFICE ASSISTANT
Busy office is looking for someone to help with various duties. Human Resource/payroll experience a plus. Located in Clarksville, DE. Please call for more info: 302-228-2353
2BR, 1BA, Small Condo. 5th Street, 1 block to the boards. No smoking/pets. $1,000/mo. + util’s. 1-month sec. dep. req. Oct. 10th-May 10th. OCMD. 410-952-5234
OC WINTER RENTAL Downtown 2BD/2BA Apt. Furnished, central HVAC, W/D, WiFi, cable included. Occ. lmtd. to 2. No smoking/pets. $800/mo. + utilities. 410-202-6353
Fully Furnished 2BR/2BA. Newly updated Seaway condo, 3rd floor walkup, Oceanblock. Pet/max. 4 occupants. All utilities plus basic cable and internet included. Available 10/15/31/26. $1,400 mo. (1st, last month plus $500 dep. required) 610-405-8942
JOYCEPETRAUSKAS@ GMAIL.COM
WOC RENTALS
5BR/5BA House. Furnished or unfurnished. Starting at $3,950/month. Just steps from the Harbor. Call 410-213-1633 for availability & full details.
Y/R Rental
2 Bed, 2 Bath Home Avail. Nov. 1st. Unfurnished. No pets. $2000 per month + electric + sec. deposit. 410-390-2269
WOC RENTALS
Furnished 1BR/1BA Apt. Steps from the Harbor. $2000/month including utilities. Call 410-213-1633 for availability & full details.
Commercial Space for Lease. ONLY 1 UNIT LEFT! 2-3 Units available, can be divided or joined. Approx. 1000 sq. ft. Busy major road in Town of Berlin. Call 443-880-8885 for more information. Contractor Shop/ Warehouse For Rent West OC. 1,000 sq.ft. w/Bathroom and HVAC. Call 443-783-2125.
Welcome to your sunlit, stylish studio in one of Midtown Manhattan’s premier full-service buildings at 420 W 42nd St. This modern home features floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning city views, a sleek kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops, and an open layout ideal for relaxing or entertaining. Enjoy luxury amenities including a 24-hour doorman, concierge, fitness center, pool, sun deck, resident lounge, and on-site laundry. Steps from Times Square, Hudson Yards, and the Theater District, this apartment offers upscale city living at its finest. CALL/TEXT 415-466-1813. Email lw182206@gmail.com.
YR RENTAL
2BR/1BA. Avail. Nov. 1st, end unit, 2nd floor, furnished.
$1,400 monthly + util. Robin Dr., OC 410-430-5316
Seeking YR & Seasonal Rentals! Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555.
Industrial Space Yard and Storage Shed. Approx. 10x25+/Route 90/Bishopville. Call 443-497-4200. 2 Office/Retail Spaces available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft. and 1728 sq. ft. Call 443-497-4200
SERVICES
LARRY’S HANDYMAN SERVICE
No job too small. Entrance doors, interior doors, storm doors, shower doors, drywall repairs and paint, laminate floors, interior paint. Over 40 years of carpentry experience. Please call Larry, 410-251-9066
DONATIONS
Do you have an old bicycle not
Instagram @ the.doodle.doggies. Vet checked, first shots. $850. Townsend, DE 302-666-8504
TINY YORKIE PUPPIES Home Raised 2 males left Mother and Father on premises 302-934-8913
3 Window A/C Units.
Used only 4 days while main HVAC compressor was replaced. 2 LG brand 12K BTU, $300 ea. & 1 LG brand 8K BTU, $200. All 3, $750. Brad, 410-935-1963
Classifieds 410-723-6397
ESTATE SALE
Saturday, 9/27, 9am-3pm
51 Clubhouse Dr., Ocean Pines. Collectables, furniture, antiques, china/crystal, Longaberger, Xmas decor, artwork, Raven, Balt. Colts, Nascar memorabilia, coastal decor. CASH & CARRY
BUDGET MOVERS
443-664-5797
LOCAL & EAST COAST MOVING Full Packing Service Piano Movers - Full Service
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BWW Law Group, LLC
6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101
Rockville, MD 20852 (301) 961-6555
SUBSTITUTE
TRUSTEES' SALE OF REAL PROPERTY AND
ANY IMPROVEMENTS THEREON
113 NORTH COLLINS STREET SNOW HILL, MD 21863
Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust dated April 26, 2024, recorded in Liber 8749, Folio 471 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, with an original principal balance of $133,733.00, 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 30, 2025 AT 4:05 PM
ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND, together with any buildings or improvements thereon located in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust.
The property, and any improvements thereon, will be sold in an "as is" condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranty of any kind.
Terms of Sale: A deposit of $13,000 in the form of certified check, cashier's check or money order will be required of the purchaser at time and place of sale. Balance of the purchase price, together with interest on the unpaid purchase money at the current rate contained in the Deed of Trust Note, or any modifications thereto, from the date of sale to the date funds are received by the Sub. Trustees, payable in cash within ten days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court. There will be no abatement of interest due to the purchaser in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE FOR THE PURCHASER. Adjustment of all real property taxes, including agricultural taxes, if applicable, and any and all public and/or private charges or assessments, to the extent such amounts survive foreclosure sale, including water/sewer, ground rent and front foot benefit charges, to be adjusted to date of sale and thereafter assumed by purchaser. Purchaser is responsible for any recapture of homestead tax credit. All transfer taxes and recordation taxes shall be paid by Purchaser. The purchaser shall be responsible for the payment of the ground rent escrow, if required. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale. Purchaser is responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property, and assumes risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale. The sale is subject to post-sale audit
of the status of the loan with the loan servicer including, but not limited to, determination of whether the borrower entered into any repayment agreement, reinstated or paid off the loan prior to the sale. In any such event, this sale shall be null and void, and the Purchaser's sole remedy, in law or equity, shall be the return of the deposit without interest. If purchaser fails to settle within ten days of ratification, subject to order of court, purchaser agrees that property will be resold and entire deposit retained by Sub. Trustees as liquidated damages for all losses occasioned by the purchaser's default and purchaser shall have no further liability. The purchaser waives personal service of any papers filed in connection with its failure to settle within ten days of ratification and expressly agrees to accept service by first class mail at the address provided by the Purchaser as identified on the Memorandum of Sale. The defaulted purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds resulting from said resale even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulted purchaser. Sub. Trustees will convey either marketable or insurable title. If they cannot deliver one or the other, or if ratification of the sale is denied by the Circuit Court for any reason, the Purchaser's sole remedy, at law or equity, is return of the deposit without interest. (Matter No. 377083-1)
Howard N. Bierman, Carrie M. Ward, et. al., Substitute Trustees
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Rosenberg & Associates, LLC
4340 East West Highway, Suite 600 Bethesda, MD 20814 (301) 907-8000 www.rosenberg-assoc.com
SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES’ SALE OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY
5719 GEORGE ISLAND LANDING ROAD STOCKTON, MD 21864
Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from Khalid A. Hindi dated November 4, 2020 and recorded in Liber 7864, folio 461 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the 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 30, 2025 AT 3:55 PM
ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND, together with the buildings and improvements thereon situated in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of
Trust. Tax ID #08-008256. The property, which is improved by a dwelling, 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 $17,000 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 to be paid in cash within ten days of final ratification of sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County. Interest to be paid on the unpaid purchase money at the rate pursuant to the Deed of Trust Note from the date of sale to the date funds are received in the office of the Trustees. There will be no abatement of interest in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement or if settlement is delayed for any reason. The noteholder shall not be obligated to pay interest if it is the purchaser. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE FOR THE PURCHASER. There will be no reduction of interest due to overpayment of deposit. Adjustment of all real property taxes (excluding recapture of previously reduced or exempt taxes) and any other public charges or assessments, to the extent such amount survive foreclosure sale, including water/sewer charges, and ground rent to be adjusted to date of sale and paid at execution of the deed, except where the secured party is the purchaser, and thereafter assumed by the purchaser. All due and/or unpaid private utility, water and sewer facilities charges, condo/HOA assessments and Columbia Assoc. assessments, to the extent such amount survive foreclosure sale, are payable by the purchaser without adjustment. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes, recaptured taxes (including but not limited to agricultural taxes), and settlement expenses shall be borne by the purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. Purchaser assumes the risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale forward. Additional terms to be announced at the time of sale.
If the Trustees are unable to convey good and marketable title, the purchaser's sole remedy in law and equity shall be limited to a refund of the deposit without interest. If the purchaser fails to go to settlement, subject to order of the court, the entire deposit (including any amount received over the advertised deposit amount) shall be forfeited to the Trustees as liquidated damages for all losses occasioned by the purchaser's default and purchaser shall have no further liability. In the event of a resale, the defaulting purchaser shall not be entitled to receive the surplus, if any, even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulting purchaser and the defaulting purchaser shall be liable to the Trustees and secured party for reasonable attorney’s fees and expenses incurred in connection with all litigation involving the Property or the proceeds of the resale. Defaulting purchaser waives personal service of any document
filed in connection with such a motion on him/herself and/or any principal or corporate designee, and expressly agrees to accept service of any such document by regular mail directed to the address provided by said purchaser at the time of the foreclosure auction. Trustees' file number 25-004043-MD-F-2.
Diane S. Rosenberg, Mark D. Meyer, et al., Trustees
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Mayor & City Council
Ocean City, Maryland
PROPOSAL
SOLICITATION
B04-26 – Convention Center Landscaping Installation
The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Convention Center Landscaping Installation and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.
BID Documents for the Convention Center Landscaping Installation may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Leonard at dleonard@oceancitymd.gov, or by calling (410) 723-6643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their BID’s. The Town is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any thirdparty service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.
A pre-proposal meeting will be held on WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 27TH, 2025 AT 10:00AM, IN THE CONVENTION CENTER CONFERENCE ROOM, 1ST FLOOR, 4001 COASTAL HIGHWAY, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842 The last day for questions will be on THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2025 AT 4:00PM. Addendum will be posted by close of business on FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19TH, 2025
Sealed BID Documents are due no later than MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 29TH, 2025, BY 4:00PM. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION, ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30TH, 2025, AT 1:00PM. BID’s are to be submitted to
the Mayor and City Council, Attention: City Clerk; Room 230, 301 North Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (Convention Center Landscaping Installation) must be noted on the outside of the package. Late BID Documents will not be accepted.
Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation.
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BAKER DONELSON
S SCOTT TATE ESQ. 100 LIGHT ST., FL. 19 BALTIMORE, MD 21202-1153
NOTICE
TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE
ESTATE NO. 20681
NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Circuit court of Polk County, Florida appointed Alma G. Wray, 273 Alpine Dr., Winter Haven, FL 33881-9553 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Robert E. Wray who died on November 13, 2023 domiciled in Florida, USA.
The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is S. Scott Tate Esq., 100 Light St., Fl. 19, Baltimore, MD 21202-1153.
At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: Worcester County.
All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.
Alma G. Wray
Foreign Personal Representative
Terri Westcott Register of Wills One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074
Name of Newspaper: Ocean City Digest
Date of first publication: September 11, 2025
OCD-9/11/3t
HEATHER R. KONYAR, ESQ.
COCKEY, BRENNAN & MALONEY, P.C.
313 LEMMON HILL LN.
SALISBURY, MD 21801-4238
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20818 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF PAUL ANTHONY DERITO
Notice is given that Kathleen M. Conetta, 25 Burr Hall Rd., Middlebury, CT 06762-1402, was on August 29, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Paul Anthony Derito who died on July 13, 2025, with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 28th day of February, 2026.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
Kathleen M. Conetta
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 11, 2025
OCD-9/11/3t
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Estate No. 20811
TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ROBERT LEE RUTHRAUFF
Notice is given that Harold Charles Ruthrauff, 5222 Fort McCord Rd., Chambersburg, PA 172020525, was on August 29, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Robert Lee Ruthrauff who died on August 13, 2025, with a
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 28th day of February, 2026.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
Harold Charles Ruthrauff 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 11, 2025 OCD-9/11/3t
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20817 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF HARVEY F. ROTH
Notice is given that Linda Roth, 7227 Etonian Ct., Pittsville, MD 21850-2090, was on August 28, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Harvey F. Roth who died on August 22, 2025, with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 28th day of February, 2026.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the personal
representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
Linda Roth 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 11, 2025
OCD-9/11/3t
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20812 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF RALPHIEL PHILLIPS HARRISON
AKA: RALPHIEL P. HARRISON
Notice is given that Gregory T. Harrison, 8927 Day Lilly Ct., Fairfax, VA 22031-1464, was on August 28, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ralphiel Phillips Harrison who died on August 13, 2025, with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 28th day of February, 2026.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
Gregory T. Harrison 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 11, 2025
OCD-9/11/3t
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS AND APPEALS
TOWN OF OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND
Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 2 Administration, Article IV, Division 5 of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland hereinafter referred to as Code, same being the Board of Adjustments and Appeals Ordinance for Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearing will be conducted in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland.
Wednesday, October 1, 2025 At 3:00 PM
BAAV 25-076 A request has been submitted for a variance from TOC Code Section 38-71(a)(5) West of Coastal Highway, to reduce the minimum 3’ freeboard elevation requirement above the AE-6 flood zone for substantial improvement of an existing townhouse unit. Locally known as 431 BAYSHORE DR UNIT C, tax parcel number 112-20-5437, lot #209C.
OWNER: Sang D. Partington
APPLICANT: Harry B. How 3rd, P.E.
BAAV 25-077 A request has been submitted for an after the fact variance from TOC Code Section 38-71 (a)(5) west of Philadelphia Avenue to reduce the minimum 3’ freeboard elevation requirement above the A-5 flood zone for construction of a new Ocean City Skate Bowl administrative building. Locally known as 300 ST LOUIS AVE parcel number 4054 -9 -0110-031486
APPLICANT/OWNER: Mayor and City Council of the Town of Ocean City
OCD-9/18/2t
VICTOR A. LEMBO SIMS & CAMPBELL LLC
181 HARRY S. TRUMAN PKWY., STE. 150 ANNAPOLIS, MD 21401-7565
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20628
TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF YOKO WALKER
Notice is given that David G. Walker, 10128 52nd Ave., College
PUBLIC NOTICE
The motor vehicles described below have been abandoned. The owners and lien holders are hereby informed of their right to reclaim the vehicles upon payment of all charges and costs resulting from the towing, preservation, and storage of the vehicles.
The failure of the owners or lien holders to reclaim the vehicles within three weeks of notification shall be deemed a waiver by the owners or lien holders of all rights, title and interest and thereby consent to the sale of the vehicles at public auction or to have it otherwise disposed of in a manner provided by law.
These three weeks of notification begins on DATE: 9/19/2025
All vehicles will be sold at auction on-line at www.govdeals.com. For details call 410-723-6643.
AUTH: Raymond J Austin Chief of Police
Park, MD 20740-1124, was on September 11, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Yoko Walker who died on January 19, 2025, with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 11th day of March, 2026.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
David G. Walker 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 18, 2025
OCD-9/18/3t
PETER S. BUAS, ESQ. WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON, LLP 3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE
TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES ESTATE NO. 20824
NOTICE IS GIVEN that the ORPHAN'S court of YORK, PENNSYLVANIA appointed LORI HATTERER whose address is PO BOX 5 80 W MAPLE STREET EAST PROSPECT, PA 17317-0005 as the PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE of the Estate of ROBERT G COOK who died on JANUARY 03, 2025 domiciled in PENNSYLVANIA, USA
The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is PETER S BUAS whose address is 3509 COASTAL HWY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3334. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: WORCESTER
All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or
(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this
published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-9/18/3t
PETER S. BUAS, ESQ. WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON, LLP 3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of LARRY ELLIS HOLDREN Estate No. 20826 Notice is given that CARRIE KAY HOLDREN SERRELL whose address is 933 WHISPERING RIDGE LN BEL AIR, MD 21015-2102 was on SEPTEMBER 12, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of LARRY ELLIS HOLDREN who died on AUGUST 29, 2025 with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 12th day of MARCH, 2026
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present
the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY
ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074
OCD-9/18/3t
IN THE ORPHANS’ COURT FOR (OR) BEFORE THE REGISTER OF WILLS FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND
IN THE ESTATE OF: FRANK LANTELLA ESTATE NO. 20825
NOTICE OF JUDICIAL PROBATE
To all Persons Interested in the above estate:
You are hereby notified that a petition has been filed by Leonora Lantella, 2525 Scravel Road, Myersville, MD 21773 for the appointment of a personal representative. A hearing will be held at One W. Market Street, Court Room 4, Court House, Snow Hill, MD 21863 on October 28, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.
This hearing may be transferred or postponed to a subsequent time. Further information may be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills.
Terri Westcott Register of Wills One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Phone: (410) 632-1529
Newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest
Publication Date: September 18, 2025
OCD-9/18/2t
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of SHIRLEY J. TINGLE Estate No. 20821 Notice is given that BARBARA ELIZABETH TINGLE whose address is 6 NW 4TH ST., MILFORD, DE 19963-1412 was on SEPTEMBER 09, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of SHIRLEY J. TINGLE who died on JUNE 10, 2025 with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 9th day of MARCH, 2026
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-9/18/3t
REENA J. PATEL ESQ. LAW OFFIC OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MOUNT HERMON RD., STE. B SALISBURY, MD 21804-5303
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20820 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF PAULINE J. ELLIOTT
Notice is given that Jerome Wood, 12249 Snug Harbor Rd., Berlin, Md 21811-2617 and John Wood, 5 LaFayette Way, Monongahela, PA 15063-3506, were on September 09, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Pauline J. Elliott who died on May 06, 2025, with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their
objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 9th day of March, 2026.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
Jerome Wood
John Wood
Personal Representatives
True Test Copy
Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074
Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: September 18, 2025
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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20823 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF CHARLES WALTER HINZ
Notice is given that Kenneth W. Hinz, 6848 Bent Grass Dr., Naples, FL 34113-2658, was on September 10, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Charles Walter Hinz who died on September 03, 2025, with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 10th day of March, 2026.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other de-
livery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
Kenneth W. Hinz 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 18, 2025
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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS BOARD OF PORT WARDENS
Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 106 ”Waterways,” Article II – “Shoreline Development” of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Port Wardens Ordinance of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland.
Thursday, October 9, 2025 2:00 PM
PW 24-063 A request has been submitted for a revision to a new pier granted in November 2024 due to an after the fact construction change. The initial request was approved for a 22’ pier extension. To comply with the finished pier measurement of 27.5’; a 5.5’ extension is requested. The site of construction is described as being located at 206 52ND STREET Parcel #6816-206 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. OWNER: Walter Dea APPLICANT: Kayla Lewis
PW 25-082 A request has been submitted to install one boatlift with associated pilings and to install a 17’ extension to an existing pier for a total length of 47’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 13503 HOLLY LN UNIT A Parcel # 9617A-12A in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
OWNER: Vincent Magliano APPLICANT: McGinty Marine Construction
PW 25-083 A request has been submitted to remove an existing PWC lift and install a new elevator type lift with a platform maximum channelward extension 30’6”. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 506 32ND ST UNIT 6 Parcel # 4454 -6 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
OWNER: Zeus Araquel APPLICANT: Kayla Lewis
PW 25-084 A request has been submitted to install 100’ of replacement vinyl bulkheading and install a new 5’ x 100’ parallel platform, maximum channelward extension 6’6”. The site of the proposed construction is described as being lo-
cated at 601 SEAWEED LN Parcel # 9937A- in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
OWNER: Baytree CM, c/o Carolyn DiArcangelo
APPLICANT: Martin’s Marine LLC
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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PLANNING AND ZONING COMISSION
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 Planning and Zoning Commission for Ocean City, Maryland in the Council Chambers of City Hall located on Baltimore Avenue and Third Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on:
Tuesday, October 7, 2025 AT 6:00 PM
Pursuant to the provisions of Sections 110-544, Uses permitted by conditional use in the Shopping Center SC-1 District, and 110-514, Uses permitted by conditional use in the Local Commercial LC-1 District, an application has been filed to renew the previously approved Conditional Use for the operation of a water taxi business (a/k/a OC Bay Hopper) to include a ticketing and sales office and the docking of water taxi boats within the Shopping Center SC-1 District. The property is described as Lot 2 and Revised Lot 1, Section 2, of the Caine Harbor Mile Plat. It is further described as being located on the west side of Coastal Highway and is locally known as 11703 Coastal Highway, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
APPLICANT: STEVEN BUTZ (PZ FILE #25-12100002)
Further information concerning the public hearings may be examined in the office of the Department of Planning and Community Development in City Hall. Joseph Wilson, Chairman Maureen Howarth, Attorney OCD-9/18/2t
AND
NOTICE OF PROPOSED LEGISLATION ORDINANCE 2025-19
NOTICE is hereby given by the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill that Ordinance 2025-19 was introduced
for first reading at a regular meeting on September 9, 2025. A fair summary of the ordinance is as follows:
An Ordinance to Adopt a Mutual Aid Agreement with Law Enforcement Agencies in Worcester County, Maryland. The County Commissioners of Worcester County, Maryland and the Mayor and Council of each municipality in Worcester County desire to enable collaboration and communication across law enforcement agencies operating withing Worcester County and propose entering a mutual aid agreement with each other. The second reading will take place on October 14th, 2025 at the regular Town Hall meeting. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review at Town Hall, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863.
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MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF
SNOW
HILL
NOTICE
OF PROPOSED LEGISLATION ORDINANCE 2025-20
NOTICE is hereby given by the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill that Ordinance 2025-20 was introduced for first reading at a regular meeting on September 9, 2025. A fair summary of the ordinance is as follows: An Ordinance to Amend Chapter 131, entitled Penalties, Fees, Fines, and Other Charges, Section 131-10, Entitled Rental Fees of the code of the Town of Snow Hill, Maryland. The Mayor and Council of Snow Hill desires to update the rental fees related to the use of the Town of Snow Hill properties to align with Town’s costs. The second reading will take place on October 14th, 2025 at the regular Town Hall meeting. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review at Town Hall, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863. OCD-9/25/1t
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. 20830
TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF AUDREY G. WILLIAMS
AKA: AUDRY WHITEHEAD
WILLIAMS, AUDREY GLORIA WILLIAMS
Notice is given that Harry Guy Williams, 31906 Walter Johnson Rd., Westover, MD 21871-3110 and Gloria Dawn Herbert, 4075 Grosse Point Dr., Salisbury, MD 21804-2534, were on September 19, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Audrey G. Williams who died on August 09, 2025, with a will. Further information can be ob-
tained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 19th day of March, 2026.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
Harry Guy Williams
Gloria Dawn Herbert
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 25, 2025 OCD-9/25/3t
BWW Law Group, LLC 6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852
ANDREW J. BRENNER, et al. 6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852
Substitute Trustees/ Plaintiffs, vs.
JOSEPH R. SCHNEIDER (DECEASED)
18 Southwind Court Berlin, MD 21811
Defendant(s) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND
Case No. C-23-CV-24-000138
NOTICE
Notice is hereby given this 18th day of September, 2025, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings and described as 18 Southwind Court, Berlin, MD 21811, made and reported by the Substitute Trustee, will be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 20th day of October, 2025, provided a copy of this NOTICE be inserted in some weekly newspaper printed in said County, once in each of three successive weeks before the
13th day of October, 2025. The report states the purchase price at the Foreclosure sale to be $350,000.00.
Susan R. Braniecki Clerk, Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD
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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 21, 2025, at 10:30 AM in the Worcester County Government Center, Room 1101, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland:
Rezoning Case No. 451, filed by Hugh Cropper on behalf of Richard and Elizabeth Smithson, property owners, for an amendment to the Official Zoning Maps to change approximately 150 acres of land located on the north side of Public Landing Road (MD Route 365), west of Outten Road, Snow Hill, in the Second Tax District of Worcester County, Maryland, from E-1 Estate District to A-1 Agricultural District. A copy of the file on Rezoning Case No. 451 and the Planning Commission’s recommendation, which will be entered into record at the public hearing, are available to view online at www.co.worcester.md.us or during normal business hours at the Department of Development, Review and Permitting, One West Market Street, Room 1201, Snow Hill, MD. THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OCD-9/25/2t
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
The Worcester County Commissioners will conduct a Public Hearing to obtain the views of citizens on community, economic development, and housing needs to be considered for submission of an application to the Maryland Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG). Citizens will have the opportunity to discuss proposed projects and to provide input on other needs to be considered. The hearing will be held on:
TUESDAY, October 7, 2025 AT 10:35 A.M. IN THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS’ MEETING ROOM ROOM 1101 –GOVERNMENT CENTER –ONE WEST MARKET STREET SNOW HILL, MARYLAND 21863
The draft CDBG grant application will be available for the public to review on October 10, 2025 until October 17, 2025 at One West Market Street, Room 1103, Snow Hill, MD 21863 during normal business hours of 8:00AM to 4:30PM.
MAYOR
COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL
Citizens will be furnished with information including but not limited to:
• the amount of CDBG funds available for State Fiscal Year 2026;
• the range of activities that may be undertaken with CDBG funds; and
• the proposed projects under consideration by the Worcester County Commissioners.
The Maryland Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program is a federally funded program designed to assist governments with activities directed toward neighborhood and housing revitalization, economic development, and improved community facilities and services. It is administered by the Department of Housing and Community Development.
The Maryland CDBG Program reflects the State's economic and community development priorities and provides public funds for activities which meet one of the following national objectives, in accordance with the federal Housing Community Development Act of 1974, as amended, that:
1. benefit to low- and moderate-income persons and households;
2. aid in the prevention or elimination of slums or blight;
3. meet other community development needs of an urgent nature, or that are an immediate threat to community health and welfare.
Efforts will be made to accommodate the disabled and non-English speaking residents with 3 business days advance notice to Candace Savage, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer at 410-632-1194.
Theodore J. Elder, President
WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS AGENDA
THURSDAY OCTOBER 9, 2025
Pursuant to the provisions of the Worcester County Zoning Ordinance, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held in-person before the Board of Zoning Appeals for Worcester County, in the Board Room (Room 1102) on the first floor of the Worcester County Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland. Audio and video recording will take place during this public hearing.
The public is invited to view this meeting live online athttps://worcestercountymd.swagit.co m/live
6:30 p.m. Case No. 25-53, on the lands of the Donald W. Urbancic Living Trust, requesting a variance to the rear yard setback from 5 feet to 3.4 feet (to encroach 1.6 feet) for a proposed deck in the A-2 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1202(c)(18), ZS 1-305 and ZS 1-318, located at 8837 Bay Ridge Drive, Tax Map 33, Parcel 347, Lot 163, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.
6:35 p.m. Case No. 25-54, on the lands of Holly and Daniel Bernabei, requesting a variance to the side yard setback from 10 feet to 4.8 feet (to encroach 5.2 feet) and a variance
to the rear yard setback from 25 feet to 24.875 feet (to encroach 0.125 feet) for a proposed open deck enlargement in the R-1 Rural Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-205(b)(2) & ZS 1-305 located at 11406 Maid at Arms Lane, Tax Map 26, Parcel 1, Lot 74, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.
6:40 p.m. Case No. 25-56, on the lands of Kristi and Brooks Brittingham, requesting five (5) variances associated with a proposed minor subdivision, including three (3) variances to the front and side yard setback for existing poultry houses from 200 feet to 100 feet (a reduction of 100 feet); one (1) variance to the front yard setback for an existing manure shed from 200 feet to 170 feet (a reduction of 30 feet); and one (1) variance to the minimum lot width requirement from 200 feet to 180.13 feet (a reduction of 19.87 feet) for a proposed new lot in the A-1 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1201(b)(5), ZS 1-349(f) and ZS 1-305, located at 8723 Ninepin Branch Road, Tax Map 30, Parcel 16, Tax District 4, Worcester County, Maryland.
6:45 p.m. Case No. 25-57, on the lands of Rhonda and Clayton Hathaway, on the application of Blair Carey/RBR Homes, requesting a variance to the rear yard setback from 30 feet to 20.8 feet (to encroach 9.2 feet) for a third floor open deck with stairs and a variance to the rear yard setback from 30 feet to 26 feet (to encroach 4 feet) for first, second and third floor porches associated with a proposed residence in the R-3 Multi-family Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-207(b)(2) and ZS 1-305, located at 38 Teal Circle, Tax Map 16, Parcel 41, Section 4, Lot 61, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.
6:50 p.m. Case No. 25-55, on the lands of the Friends of Bishopville Cemetery, Inc., on the application of Joseph E. Moore, requesting two (2) special exceptions for (1) the expansion of an existing cemetery and (2) the approval of a Columbarium on a separate parcel in the V-1 Village District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3), ZS 1-204(c)(19) and ZS 1-305, located at 10636 Cemetery Road, Tax Map 3, Parcels 98 and 101, Tax District 5, Worcester County, Maryland.
6:55 p.m. Case No. 25-58, on the lands of Cecelia and Joseph Letts, on the application of Hugh Cropper IV, requesting a special exception for the enlargement of a nonconforming structure (single-family residence) and three (3) variances including (1) a variance to the side yard setback from 20 feet to 11.2 feet (to encroach 8.8 feet) for the dwelling; (2) a variance to the side yard setback from 20 feet to 13.5 feet (to encroach 6.5 feet) for a proposed deck and steps; and (3) an after-the-fact variance to the side yard setback from 20 feet to 3.7 feet (to encroach 16.3 feet) for an existing shed in the A-2 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(5), ZS 1-122(d)(1), ZS 1116(c)(3), ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1202(b)(5) and ZS 1-305, located at
8949 Clark Road, Tax Map 33, Parcel 7, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.
7:00 p.m. Case No. 25-59, on the lands of John Skidmore, requesting a variance to the side yard setback from 6 feet to 0 feet (to encroach 6 feet) for a proposed pool, deck, covered deck and associated improvements in the R-3 Multi-family Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1207(b)(2) and ZS 1-305, located at 26 West Mallard Drive, Tax Map 21, Parcel 273, Section 14C, Lot 122, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.
7:05 p.m. Case No. 25-52, on the lands of Nicholas and Danielle Campanaro, on the application of Hugh Cropper IV, requesting a variance to reduce the Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area Buffer from 100 feet to 75.4 feet (to encroach 24.6 feet) for a proposed single-family residence in the R-1 Rural Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(m), ZS 1-205(b)(2) and ZS 1-305 and Natural Resources Code §§ 3104(d)(4) and NR 3-111, located on the southwestern side of Trappe Creek Drive at its intersection with Hunting Hound Road, Tax Map 32, Parcel 349, Lot 15, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.
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TOWN OF BERLIN NOTICE
OF PUBLIC HEARING October 14, 2025 CITIZEN PARTICIPATION COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT
The Town of Berlin will conduct a Public Hearing to obtain the views of citizens on community, economic development, and housing needs to be considered for submission of an application to the Maryland Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG). Citizens will have the opportunity to discuss the proposed project and to provide input on other needs to be considered.
The hearing will be held at the Mayor and Council Chambers, 2nd Floor, Berlin Town Hall, 10 William Street, Berlin, MD 21811 at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, October 14, 2025.
Citizens will be furnished with information including but not limited to:
* the amount of CDBG funds available for State Fiscal Year 2026
* the range of activities that may be undertaken with CDBG funds; and
* the proposed project(s) under consideration by the Town of Berlin
The Maryland Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program is a federally sponsored program designed to assist governments with activities directed toward neighborhood and housing revitalization, economic development, and improved community fa-
cilities and services. It is administered by the Department of Housing and Community Development in close cooperation with the Department of Business and Economic Development.
The Maryland CDBG Program reflects the State's economic and community development priorities and provides public funds for activities which meet one of the following national objectives, in accordance with the federal Housing Community Development Act of 1974, as amended:
1. benefit low and moderate income persons and households;
2. aid in the prevention or elimination of slums or blight;
3. meet other community development needs of an urgent nature, or that are an immediate threat to community health and welfare.
Efforts will be made to accommodate the disabled and non-English speaking residents with 7 days’ advance notice to Sara Gorfinkel, 410641-3858.
Zack Tyndall, Mayor OCD-9/25/1t
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20815 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF STEPHEN K. YOVANOV
AKA: STEPHEN KARL YOVANOV
Notice is given that Robert F. Yovanov, 840 Arden Ct., West Chester, PA 19382-7992, was on September 15, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Stephen K. Yovanov who died on August 26, 2025, with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 15th day of March, 2026.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
Robert F. Yovanov 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 25, 2025 OCD-9/25/3t
BID
SOLICITATION
Whaleyville Recycling Center Concrete Pad
Worcester County is seeking Bids from qualified Vendors to contract for a concrete pad at the Whaleyville Recycling Center in conformity with the requirements contained herein Bid Documents.
Bid Documents for the above referenced project may be obtained from the Worcester County Commissioner’s Office by either e-mailing the Procurement Officer at purchasing@worcestermd.gov or by calling 410-632-1194 during normal business hours, or via the County’s Bids page on the County’s website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their bids. Worcester County is not responsible for the content of any Bid Document received through any third party bid service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Bid Documents.
A pre-bid meeting will be held on Thursday, October 2, 2025 at 10:30am on site at the Whaleyville Recycle Center located at Rt 610 and Shepards Crossing Rd. Whaleyville Md. 21872. The last day for questions will be noon on Friday, October 17, 2025. Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than Monday, October 27, 2025 at 2:30pm and will be opened and read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863.
Late Bid Documents will not be accepted.
Envelopes shall be marked " Bid Solicitation – Whaleyville Recycling Center Concrete Pad” in the lower left-hand corner.
Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for award of the solicitation.
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BID
SOLICITATION
Dump Truck
Worcester County is seeking Bids from qualified Vendors to purchase a dump truck with stainless steel 10foot dump body in conformity with the requirements contained herein Bid Documents.
Bid Documents for the above referenced project may be obtained from the Worcester County Commissioner’s Office by either e-mailing the Procurement Officer at purchasing@worcestermd.gov or by calling 410-632-1194 during normal busi-
ness hours, or via the County’s Bids page on the County’s website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their bids. Worcester County is not responsible for the content of any Bid Document received through any third party bid service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Bid Documents.
The last day for questions will be noon on Wednesday, October 8, 2025. Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than Tuesday, October 16, 2025 at 2:30pm and will be opened and read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863.
Late Bid Documents will not be accepted.
Envelopes shall be marked " Bid Solicitation – Dump Truck” in the lower left-hand corner.
Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for award of the solicitation.
OCD-9/25/1t
SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20831 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF RENEE SERRA
Notice is given that Chris Serra, 580 Sunshine Way, Westminister, MD 21157-4664, was on September 19, 2025 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Renee Serra who died on September 09, 2025, without a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.
All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.
Chris Serra Personal Representative
True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott
One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074
Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest
Date of publication: September 25, 2025
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NOTICE
OF PUBLIC HEARING
OCTOBER 20, 2025, AT 6:00 PM TOWN OF OCEAN CITY RE: BALTIMORE AVENUE RIGHT OF WAY CONVEYANCE
A Public Hearing is scheduled on Monday, October 20, 2025, at 6:00 p.m., at the Regular Meeting of the Mayor and City Council, in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842. The purpose of this public hearing is to consider the abandonment and conveyance of a portion of the public right of way on the eastern and western side of Baltimore Avenue from North Division to 15th Street , with the exact distances varying in width and length. The hearing will allow public input for Mayor and Council consideration as to whether or not it is in the public’s interest to determine that the property is no longer needed for public use and move forward with the abandonment and conveyance of said right of way. Additional information can be obtained by accessing the September 9, 2025, Mayor and Council agenda packet at http://oceancitymd.iqm2.com/Citizens/Default.aspx or by contacting the City Clerk at dchavis@oceancity.gov or 410-2898842.
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TIMOTHY J. OURSLER ESQ. MCALLISTER, DE TAR, SHOWWALTER & WALKER LLC
706 GIDDINGS AVE., STE. 305 ANNAPOLIS, MD 21401-1425
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of JOSEPH C. COURTNEY IV Estate No. 20829 Notice is given that LISA COURTNEY whose address is 9811 WINDING TRAIL DR., OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-9332 was on SEPTEMBER 18, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOSEPH C. COURTNEY IV who died on AUGUST 11, 2025 with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 18th day of MARCH, 2026. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the cred-
itor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-9/25/3t
NOTICE
TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES ESTATE NO. 20832
NOTICE IS GIVEN that the SUPERIOR court of NEW CASTLE COUNTY, DELAWARE appointed DENISE KATZ whose address is 209 APACHE CT., NEWARK, DE 19702-1903 as the PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE of the Estate of BEATRICE A. SMITH who died on JUNE 13, 2025 domiciled in DE, USA.
The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is DEBRA ERBE whose address PO BOX 3898, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3898. 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
Put Your Business Card Where It Gets Noticed and Seen By Thousands of
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-9/25/3t
GORDON D. FRONK ESQ. EWING, DIETZ, FOUNTAIN & KALUDIS, P.A. 16 S. WASHINGTON ST. EASTON, MD 21601-3008
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of KATHERINE J. FARMER Estate No. 20835 Notice is given that BRIAN P. RECKFORD whose address is 1017 VINEYARD HILL RD., BALTIMORE, MD 21228-5360 was on SEPTEMBER 22, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of KATHERINE J. FARMER who died on AUGUST 22, 2025 with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 22nd day of MARCH, 2026
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County
Md. electric bill rebates take effect
Ratepayers can expect to see credit this month, next winter, governor announces
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Sept. 26, 2025) Marylanders should start seeing the first of two rebates hit their electric bills this month after state leaders agreed to pledge $200 million in direct relief for ratepayers.
In fact, Berlin residential customers received a $53.88 credit. A note in the most recent bill from the town read, “Maryland House Bill 1035, enacted by Governor Wes Moore and the Maryland General Assembly in 2025, established the Legislative Energy Relief Refund to help offset high energy costs for residential customers in Maryland.”
Rebate amounts will vary based on a household’s energy use and by utility company, but most ratepayers can expect to see between $30 and $67 coming off their August or September electric bills, Gov. Wes Moore’s office announced Monday. A second rebate will land between January and February.
“The reason we are so passionate about the issue of energy affordability is because we hear from our constituents about it every day,” said
Moore, a Democrat, in a statement “Marylanders are deeply frustrated, and their frustration is justified.”
Funding for the rebate comes from the state’s Strategic Energy Investment Fund, or SEIF, authorized by legislation the General Assembly passed earlier this year, called the Next Generation Energy Act.
The Next Generation Energy Act also expands financial support to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from multi-family residential buildings and establishes new standards to advance nuclear energy generation across the state, the governor’s office said.
The legislature created the SEIF in 2008 to receive proceeds from Maryland’s share of a regional carbon capand-trade initiative.
The fund is supposed to be supported by multiple revenue streams, including by utilities that pay a compliance fee for not sourcing a certain percentage of electricity from renewable sources.
Maryland’s Public Service Commission says some utilities have been known to pass the cost of that compliance fee onto customers, leading some Republicans in the General Assembly to criticize the Moore administration.
The GOP-led Freedom Caucus in its own statement accused Moore and
state Democratic officials of “moving money around to make it look like they’re helping” instead of addressing the root cause of high utility rates, which they claim is a “relentless catering to environmental activists.”
“Governor Moore isn’t giving out relief – he’s just recycling ratepayer money Maryland families already paid on their utility bills,” Senate Minority Leader Steve Hershey said Monday. “Instead of fixing the failed policies that caused rates to skyrocket in the first place, Democrats are raiding the (SEIF) as a short-term political gimmick.”
Moore’s office has publicly made cost-saving measures for Marylanders’ energy bills a priority this year.
The governor in June announced a new $19 million Customer Relief Fund to offer one-time financial assistance to low- and middle-income ratepayers for energy costs. Money from that fund is administered through nonprofit organizations to communities in need.
And, in May, Maryland joined a partnership with federal, state, and regional policymakers that’s pursuing cost-saving solutions for consumers and increased reliability of energy delivery. That collaboration is being called the Northeast States Collaborative on Interregional Transmission.
REAL ESTATE MARKETPLACE
Whittington to step down as head of OC firefighter union
By Stewart Dobson Editor
(Sept. 26, 2025) After 12 years as president of the Ocean City firefighters union, Ryan Whittington will not seek reelection to a seventh two-year term, he announced at a meeting of the Ocean City Career Firefighter Paramedics Association Tuesday night. His departure as the head of Local 4269 of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) at the end of this year will conclude a chapter in the history of the union and Ocean City Fire Department that can only be described as eventful.
Among those notable events would be the election in 2014 of Whittington, a biracial gay man with a Jehovah’s Witnesses upbringing, as president of the IAFF local.
2005 as a part-time firefighter/EMS provider.
“So, it's funny you mentioned that,” he said in an interview this week, “because I always talk about writing a book. I was born and raised as a Jehovah's Witness, right? Who is half black, who's gay, and I really felt there was some fear there, right?
“But, in Ocean City, those individuals that work full-time kind of took me under their wings – Jack Fisher, Tommy Kane, Bryon Trimble, Mike Ellingsworth, Hugh Hommel – who respected me and knew who I was, and it was about what type of work you do.”
Whittington, who was born and raised in Parsonsburg, where he became a volunteer firefighter, recalled being told early on in Ocean City that “this job is about working hard and serving and protecting our community.”
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As unlikely as that might seem, any suggestion that the good ol’ boy stereotype might apply to the Ocean City union membership would not be fair, Whittington said, since he experienced none of that going back to when he joined the department in
Working hard is what Whittington did, because not only did he win the election in his initial outing after he went full-time in 2013, but he was also elected five more times. At the time, he was a deputy in the Ocean City Fire Marshal’s Office where he added his bomb technician certification to his firefighter and EMT credentials.
He took his current job as commu-
Ryan Whittington
In OC’s fire service, ‘We’re a big family here’
nity and department engagement officer in 2023, a newly created position at the time, even though he had been serving as the public information officer for both the career department and the volunteer company for years, because that was the direction he wanted his career to go.
His effectiveness in working with the public served the union well in another highlight of Whittington’s tenure with the IAFF. In 2018, the union won a ballot referendum on adding binding interest arbitration to its collective bargaining agreement with the city, which had staunchly opposed the idea.
“I remember scratching everything down on graph paper, just me writing my thoughts out,” he said. “And it was how many doors we needed to knock, how we needed to let people know what it was because the mayor was telling people it was going to increase their tax base or increase their tax rate.
“And I remember, you know, people were reaching out to us at the time saying, ‘Hey, you've saved my life. I will do whatever you need. You need me on a flyer, or you want me to write a letter?’”
The final tally was 1,288-to-1,048 in favor of the union.
He believes that victory resulted from the good relationship he and others cultivated with residents during that period. Another example of Whittington’s take on the nature of that connection with the public occurred not that many years ago when a woman brought brownies to the firehouse.
“I remember a gentleman from Baltimore City worked for us parttime and a lady brought us some brownies into the firehouse. And she said, ‘Thank you guys for saving my life. Anything else I can do; I just wanted to make you some brownies.’
“And she went out the door, and we all sat down. I started a pot of coffee, and we opened them up. And he's (the Baltimore man) like, ‘what are you guys doing?’ And we're like, she just brought brownies.
“He's like, ‘You guys eat these?’
“And we're like, ‘yeah, we eat them.’
“Oh,” the part-timer replied, “in Baltimore City, we don't eat anything that people bring in the car.”
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Whittington responded, “This is Ocean City. You know, this is Caine Woods, Montego Bay, Teal Drive. People bring us stuff. We eat it. We're a big family here. This is Ocean City.”
Aside from the community engagement aspect of his job and the department’s overall approach to working with the public, Whittington is proud of the department’s introduction of a therapy dog program to help relieve the trauma firefighters experience when dealing with tragic circumstances.
The union also has seen to the institution of a wellness program that includes annual screenings for cancer and other illnesses. The program has been so successful, he said, that the city will be opening one for all employees in November.
In reflecting on his dozen years as union president, Whittington said he’s
proud what has been built. The union now has 86 members, including retirees who will answer the call if needed and he believes the union has a good working relationship with city officials.
That, he said, was evidenced by their last round of contract negotiations, which was handled without attorneys in face-to-face meetings between City Manager Terry McGean and Whittington.
“It was Terry and I in a room and he would come to me with what his people said. I would come to him and what my people said, and then I would include my board members and say, all right, let's go meet with Terry.”
Whittington said he does understand that elected officials want to hold the line on spending, but that “you can really hold the line so much, especially as Ocean City’s growing as we are.”
But come January 2026, these discussions will be someone else’s responsibility, possibly union Vice President R.C. Evans, who, at Whittington’s behest, has been accompanying him on his meetings with city officials and union advisors for the last six months. He also has been including Evans on his union business emails.
As for what Whittington plans to do next — and the reason he is stepping down instead of seeking another term — he will continue his work as community and department engagement officer, delivering seminars, teaching and making presentations, while he and his husband complete the formal adoption process so they can add to their family.
“The phone could ring any day,” he said. “So, it's going to be an exciting new chapter for my family. And I want to be present for it.”
Indoor playground filling a need in West OC
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Sept. 26, 2025) A family-owned indoor playground has finally arrived in West Ocean City, offering kids and parents a rainy-day entertainment alternative.
Situated inside the shopping complex Outlets Ocean City on Route 50, Ocean’s Playhouse, an indoor play space, welcomes children up to age 12 with its underwater-themed playground elements and lively decorations.
Kids can climb up or across a modified rock wall, time themselves racing through an inflatable obstacle course, chase their siblings or friends through a soft play maze structure, go down a few slides, create patterns on a light-up wall, and enjoy a classic ball pit. A compact area is also tucked away for the younger children.
Ocean’s Playhouse is owned and operated by Ocean City local and Bulgarian native Lina Atanasova, with help from her husband, Veli. The Atanasovas’ inspiration to create a kid-focused indoor entertainment space came from their experience as parents to two young boys.
“I said to my husband, there’s no place in our resort town where you can go indoors and entertain your kids,” Lina Atanasova said. “We have a mini indoor golf course, but little kids are kind of hard to manage there, because they need to be a little older so they know what they’re doing. After that, we would need to travel to Salisbury or Lewes. We shouldn’t have to leave our town.”
The idea for the playground was thus born. Parents can bring in their children two years old and under for $14.95, while older kids incur a cost of $22.95. This pricing model includes both the adult
and one child, for an unlimited amount of playtime.
Extra adults are typically welcome free of charge if a mother and father are both present, or if a grandparent, aunt, or uncle accompanies them. However, if the facility reaches maximum capacity, each additional adult will be charged $6.95.
A key component of the playground is that any equipment the kids can play in, the adults are welcome to as well. The elements were created specifically to accommodate all age groups.
“I worked with a designer and I said, ‘I want to make sure the structures are wide and stable and it’s big enough so adults can go and experience these things with their little kids,’” Atanasova said.
The owner added that, in addition to offering daily open-ended play, Ocean’s Playhouse will double as a birthday party hotspot. Parents can book celebrations
for either a weekday or the weekend with different pricing models available.
The weekday birthday party package is $450 and includes admission for 10 kids. Additional children will yield a cost of $15.95 each, with a maximum party allowance of 15 youngsters. A weekend festivity is $500, and $18.95 for each additional child.
Parties include the use of a reserved room for two hours, two large cheese pizzas from the nearby Mione’s, one side dish, and drinks. Ocean’s Playhouse staff sets up the designated space and is responsible for the post-celebration cleanup.
“A mom from a party [this week] was like, ‘So I don’t have to do anything now?’” the owner said. “Every parent is expected to run around, so that’s what I do. Everything that I wanted as a parent, I do it.”
Atanasova emphasized that as a local business, it was important to her to partner with other Eastern Shore organizations to get the indoor playground up and running. Some collaborators include Antonio Contracting LLC, OC Electric, Phillips Signs, Plak That Printing Co., D3 Corporation, DBS Point of Sale, Action Island Imprinters, George, Miles & Buhr, LLC, Deeley Insurance Group, Home Impact Audio, artist Brian Waggoner, and Mione’s Pizza.
The owner added that Mione’s food is not exclusively for birthday parties. The offering is available every day, and parents and kids can order restaurant staples, such as cheese pizza, pepperoni pizza, or chicken tenders and fries, during regular play hours. Ocean’s Playhouse staff will bring the fresh dishes to customers, who can enjoy them at one of the several tables located at the back of the facility.
Atanasova is excited to offer the indoor play space to town locals and visitors all year long, especially as Ocean City heads into its offseason, when the beaches become cold and empty, and parents are on the hunt for kid-friendly activities.
“We did it for the community, for our people,” she said. “In summer, those people will be happy to have this place on rainy days, on very hot days. And in the offseason, Ocean City can be a ghost town, and people need things to do.”
Atanasova said she is looking forward to connecting with new people through her new business, a passion of hers that she cultivated over the past decade as a server at Big Peckers.
“I really want people to know who I am,” she said. “I walk around and talk to people. I’m just myself. I’m a people person. I laugh with people, I joke with them. I worked at Big Peckers for 15 years, and that was a fun job. I never felt like I had a workday; I enjoyed it so much. And now having my own place, I want to talk to people.”
Ocean’s Playhouse staff and owners will officially celebrate the indoor playground’s opening on Wednesday, Octo-
New listings fall sharply as September market cools off
By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer
(Sept. 26, 2025) New data shows Maryland’s housing market continued to cool in September, with home sales falling 9.1% year-overyear. A total of 5,830 homes changed hands compared to 6,411 in September 2024.
Despite fewer transactions, prices kept climbing. Statewide, the average sales price rose 4.5% to $519,410, while the median price increased 2.4% to $435,000. Pending contracts ticked upward by 4.6%, but active inventory dipped slightly (–0.5%), new listings fell sharply (–18.3%), and homes are taking longer to sell: the median days on market jumped to 16, up from just 10 a year ago.
Locally for Worcester County, August figures are available and show a decline (-11.9%) in units sold. The average sales price rose 7.9% in August of 2025 to $532,575 from $493,434 in August of 2024. The median days on market is above the state average at 49 days on market vs 28 days on market year over year.
“Maryland’s market is sending mixed signals,” said Cheryl Abrams Davis, 2025 President, Maryland REALTORS®. “Buyers are still competing for fewer listings, which is pushing prices higher, but homes are also sitting longer before closing. This mismatch shows why bold action is needed: our state leaders are moving in the right direction, but local governments must step up with zoning reforms and permit approvals to get more homes built.”
The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development announced that the state financed $1.64 billion in new development and another $1 billion in acquisition mortgages for first-time home buyers.
Then, on Sept. 3, Gov. Wes Moore
signed an Executive Order to address Maryland’s ongoing housing crisis, underscoring the foundational role housing plays in every community.
The order tackles several issues, including streamlining permitting, and identifying state-owned properties for potential housing near transit hubs , and working with local jurisdictions to set housing production targets.
“If you want to create wealth, start with housing,” said Maryland Governor Wes Moore. “If you want to create jobs, start with housing. If you want to attract new businesses, start with housing.”
Lauren Bunting is Broker of Record with Keller Williams Realty of Delmarva in Ocean City, Maryland.
AGH will host trunk or treat at Burbage medical center
(Sept. 26, 2025) It will be a sweetly ghoulish evening on Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025, when the Atlantic General Hospital (AGH) Pathway to Excellence Committee hosts its second annual Trunk or Treat at the John H. ‘Jack’ Burbage, Jr. Regional Cancer Care Center located at 9707 Healthway Drive, Berlin, MD 21811.
AGH team members will decorate their vehicles and fill their trunks with Halloween goodies for a safe, supervised and family-friendly event. The event will run from 6 to 8:30 p.m., or until all goodies have been distributed.
All kids are invited, and costumes are encouraged. Parents are responsible for the supervision of their children at AGH’s Trunk or Treat.
Designated parking will be available
at the event for the public. No public vehicles will be allowed in the Trunk or Treat area for the safety of all participants.
Pathway to Excellence, awarded by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, honors organizations that foster nursing excellence and a supportive work environment. This designation strengthens patient care and quality in our community. AGH is proud to be on this journey and anticipates receiving the designation in Winter 2026.
Treat your family to a fun, safe and enjoyable Halloween event from your friends at AGH.
To learn more about this event, please contact Kayla Wallace, MSN, RN, CMSRN, NE-BC, at 410-629-6480 or kayla.wallace@tidalhealth.org.
from Page 76
ber 1. From 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., the facility will offer special admission prices and kick off a raffle, which will run through the end of October, for the chance to win prizes, including gift cards. Also on October 1, a ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held at 10:30 a.m.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Ocean’s Playhouse to Outlets Ocean City,” said Alane Damore, the general manager at Outlets Ocean City, in a press release. “It’s an amazing addition for families, offering a fun, safe, and creative space for kids to enjoy year-round.”
Albert Peter Dewey: the first American fatality in Vietnam
By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer
This week, 80 years ago, a decorated hero, Albert Peter Dewey, who went by Peter, became the first American fatality of the Vietnam War.
Dewey was the son of two-term Republican Congressman Charles S. Dewey, who represented the 9th Congressional District of Illinois, from 1941 to 1945. The district includes parts of north Chicago and its suburb, Evanston (where Northwestern University is located). That district is now represented by Democrat, Ann Schakowsky.
News in its Paris bureau. During the Battle of France, he enlisted as a lieutenant in the Polish Military Ambulance Corps, which was a part of the French Army. Following the defeat and occupation of France, he made his way back to the United States through Spain and Portugal.
Dewey was also the first cousin, once removed, of the Republican Governor of New York, Thomas E. Dewey. The New York governor would, in the 1948 presidential election, be upset by the incumbent Democratic President Harry S Truman.
The younger Dewey graduated from Yale University. Upon his graduation from Yale, he began a career as a journalist with the Chicago Daily
He joined the United States Army and served in the Air Force in North Africa, achieving the rank of captain. He later joined the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), which was the forerunner of the CIA.
While in the States, Dewey married Nancy Weller, Aug. 1, 1942. They were blessed with one child, a daughter, Nancy.
On Aug. 10, 1944, Dewey was parachuted into southern France as the leader of a 10-man team behind enemy lines, as part of “Operation Dragoon.” For this activity, he was awarded the following: Legion of Merit by the United States; the Legion of Honor and the Croix de Guerre, with Palms, by France. He was also the recipient of the Order of Polonia Restituta from Poland, and the Order of Glory from Tunisia. Still with the OSS, he arrived in Saigon on Sept. 4, 1945, with the rank
Albert P. Dewey
RAIN SHINEOR
WORLD WAR II
of lieutenant colonel, to head a sevenman team, “...to represent American interests ...” in “Project Embankment.”
While in that position, he arranged the repatriation of 4,549 Allied POWs, including 240 Americans from two Japanese POW camps.
The situation was very confused in Vietnam at that time, as the Ho Chi Minh-led Viet Minh, of course, wanted independence for their country. However, the French wanted to restore French sovereignty over their former colony.
The British had been designated as the occupation forces, but were woefully undermanned, so they enlisted the former French POWs, as well as the Japanese, to keep a lid on the Viet Minh.
The French and the Japanese were treating the Vietnamese very harshly for resisting the reestablishment of French authority. Col. Dewey complained to the British officer in command, Gen. Douglass David Gracey, about the poor treatment of the Vietnamese, who had also been fighting against the Japanese during the war, while the French had cooperated with them.
However, Gen. Gracey, being a colonialist, sympathized with his fellow colonialists, who were trying to restore their colonial empire. The upshot was that Gen. Gracey complained to Washington, and Dewey was ordered to return home.
He was scheduled to leave Vietnam on Sept. 26, but the airplane that was supposed to fly him out did not arrive on time. He, therefore, returned from the airport to the city for lunch with war correspondents Bill Downs and Jim McGlincy at the OSS villa in Saigon.
As he neared the villa, his vehicle was ambushed by Viet Minh troops, and he was shot in the head. The Viet Continued on Page 80
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH Dewey's book is pictured above.
WORLD WAR II
Minh claimed that their troops mistook him for a Frenchman, because he had spoken to them in French. His body was never recovered.
Gen. Gracey had prohibited the display, by anyone, other than general officers, of any flags on vehicles. Dewey wanted to fly an American flag on his vehicle to protect him from the Viet Minh. It is thought that if the American flag had been displayed on his Jeep that he would not have been killed. Ho Chi Minh sent a letter of condolence about Dewey’s death to President Truman. Dewey was not quite 29, and had been married a little more than three years. He was awarded the Silver Star.
Col. Dewey had analyzed the situation and presciently said, “IndoChina is burning, the French and the British are finished here, and we ought to clear out of Southeast Asia.”
Unfortunately, as we all know, we not only did not get out, we got further in!
Because the Department of Defense ruled that the Vietnam War did not officially start until Nov. 1, 1955. Dewey’s name cannot be found on the Vietnam
Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. It is listed on the American Battle Monuments Commission’s Tablets of the Missing, at Manila American Cemetery and Memorial. There he is listed as “Major Albert P. Dewey.” Dewey wrote a book, “As They Were,” about life in Paris before the war, which was published posthumously.
In addition to his relation to the Illinois congressman, his father, and the New York governor, his cousin, Dewey was also a cousin to SpanishAmerican War hero, admiral of the Navy, George Dewey. His nephew, David Dewey Alger, was killed in the attacks on New York’s World Trade Center, on Sept. 11, 2001.
Next week: Trial, and Execution, of Ferenc Szálasi
Mr. Wimbrow writes from Ocean City, Maryland, where he practices law representing those persons accused of criminal and traffic offenses, and those persons who have suffered a personal injury through no fault of their own. He can be contacted at: wimbrowlaw@gmail.com.
Opinions
Clock ticking on Balto. Ave. plan
Unlike the Rolling Stones’ 1964 version of “Time Is On My Side,” time is not on Ocean City government’s side with respect to its plans to beautify and overhaul Baltimore Avenue. No, it isn’t.
This is even though local government has had more than a decade to act, as it races to meet a use-it or lose-it deadline on a $20 million federal grant that would cover up to half the project’s cost.
It was in 2007, after all, that Public Works Director Hal Adkins told the mayor and City Council that the city-owned Baltimore Avenue right-of-way and the street itself did not run parallel to each other and that property owners adjacent to the road had been using that right-of-way as their own property for generations.
Six years later, in 2013, the city declared that, yes, Baltimore Avenue was built cockeyed. Even so, elected officials were loath to tell property owners that — ahem — some of your front yard belongs to us.
Consequently, they put off the right-of-way issue other than to prohibit its further development. Now, city officials are rushing to get property owners on board with a deal that would cede to them a large portion of the right-of-way in exchange for the city’s use of a smaller section for road improvements.
The problem, however, is that city officials will still have to convince some property owners that giving them some, but not all, of the property they have considered their own anyway is a good deal.
Ocean City officials and other advocates of Baltimore Avenue’s facelift hope that can be done and that they can get on with the process without any unpleasantness or hard feelings.
Maybe they can, but because they have put off the Baltimore Avenue issue for so long, they have made this job more difficult by limiting the amount of patience they can afford to exercise.
PUBLIC EYE
Hello,
About to be neutraled
This is Loki the dog, and I have an exciting day ahead because I’m about to go get neutraled! Yay!
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content copyright 2025
By Stewart Dobson
I don’t know exactly what getting neutraled means, but I know it’s good because my master has said many times recently that he would “love” to neutral me himself.
He usually says that after I explore things and make some of them mine by with dog zoning.
For instance, I just designated the coat rack in the hall a P1 zone. The plant stand next to it is now in a P3 zone.
I admit I have made mistakes in zoning, like I did with his bedroom slippers. I thought they would be a P-Accessory Use zone, but I was mistaken.
My master, though, didn’t mind, because I heard him say he would “love” to neutral me himself with a can opener, whatever that is.
From what I understand, being neutraled also will reduce something called testosterone, which I think is a kind of pasta, like fettucine and linguine.
I hope not, because I like pasta, especially gnocchi, which I apparently have. All I know is that someone said the other day, after I showed everyone how long a roll of toilet paper is, that if I didn’t settle down, they would chop off my little gnocchis right then and there.
By the way, do you know how long a roll of toilet paper is? I do, it’s one bathroom, two bedrooms, a set of stairs and a kitchen long. It could be longer, but I ran out of space, so I
tore it into little tiny bits for easy cleanup. I am pretty thoughtful.
I will admit that sometimes I can’t help myself. I just get so excited by some things that I have to run as hard as I can to get to it. Like a leaf, for instance.
I see one dropping from a tree, which has been zoned P-223, incidentally, and I go, “Hey! Is that a falling leaf? It is! What does it taste like?” And I run hard to get it before anyone else can. Or a moth. I see a moth and I go, “Hey! Is that a moth? It is! What does it taste like?” And I knock down anything and everything between me and it because I don’t want to miss it.
Or even when it’s something unidentifiable. I go, “Hey! I don’t know what it is! But I do want to know what it tastes like.”
I do have an excellent sense of taste, afterall, because I’m the only one in the house who can taste the difference between the 10foot stretch of garden edging I pulled out from the front flower bed and which one I pulled out from the side yard garden.
The humans can’t tell because, I’ve already chewed both of them into tiny pieces for easy cleanup, so I have to help them.
That’s the thing here. I’m always happy to help and join in the fun. Like the other day when my master was in his recliner laughing at something he read. He was laughing so hard that I ran and then leaped straight at him like a fighter jet with hair so I could see what was making him do that and turn it into tiny bits.
That might have been a mistake too, because he said, “You little galoot, I’d love to ...”
Well, he won’t because we’re getting neutral professionals to do the job, whatever it is, but I think it’s going to be really good.
Between the Lines
By Steve Green
This weekend’s Oceans Calling festival is expected to be a complete sell out by the time the event starts. It’s not that it really matters if it’s sold out entirely, but what’s different this year is the number of 55,000 being used to estimate total tickets sold rather than 50,000 in previous years. Based on the crowds inside the venue, it was clear last year there were more tickets sold than the previous year so it’s nice to see the confirmation more tickets are being sold than the first year.
Though tickets have been available on secondary markets and social media all week, the official event website as of Thursday morning had single-day tickets available for Sunday only. While an argument could be made the demand is down a bit, as it sold out quickly the first couple years, it’s all relative. For the new spring Boardwalk Rock event, ticket sales were not robust initially but by the time the event weekend came the crowds were in Ocean City. Beautiful weather helped boost last-minute attendance. Many hospitality operators said it was their strongest spring weekend.
Over the last few years, it’s been interesting to observe how the restaurants and bars have adjusted their operations for the festivals. Many bars were advertising this week early openings of 9 a.m., or earlier, for festival pregaming and lighter food and drink prices than inside the venue. Additionally, bars within walking distance of the festival grounds have boosted staffing to accommodate the onslaught after the 11 p.m. event curfew.
From a police perspective, the festival weekends are more about traffic and crowd control than arrests. It was suspected drug and alcohol arrests would be up with the festival crowds but that has not been the case by and large. It seems the biggest concern around festival weekends involves transportation, and the answers are difficult to come by with the onslaught of crowd demands. Ocean City Police Chief Ray Austin said this week, “From past experience, this isn’t like some of our motor events and the issues we’ve had in the past. This is a good crowd that comes in. It’s just really moving, getting people from point A to point B, from the venue back to their vehicles and really managing the traffic – foot traffic and vehicular traffic.”
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Oct. 1 is a day when many bills become law in Maryland. Here are some highlights:
• The existing “move over” law has been updated to mandate drivers move over or slow down for emergency vehicles. Common courtesy usually prevails for police, fire and EMS vehicles, but it’s now required for motorists to move out of the way of tow trucks and road crews, too.
• Reckless driving can now be an incarcerable offense if the driver is going 30 mph or above over the posted speed limit. The bill was sparked by an incident in Montgomery County when a police officer lost both his legs after being struck by a motor vehicle driving in excess of 100 mph.
• Fines for motorists caught speeding by speed cameras will be going up for major offenders. Drivers will still not be fined unless going 12 mph over, but if you are driving 16 mph to 19 mph over the posted limit the fine will increase from $40 to $70. There’s a sliding scale associated with the change, with motorists going 40 or more mph over the posted speed limit will now be fined $425 ($40 previously).
• Called “Eric’s ID Law,” individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities can now add a butterfly symbol to their ID or driver’s license to inform first responders.
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It’s become clear Worcester County government is continuing to work through some past financial mismanagement of its wastewater utility funds. The various funds not being self-sufficient – as in the revenues brought in through consumer fees not meeting the expenses required to run the service areas -- was a major budget predicament in the spring. Back then, Commissioner Chip Bertino was vocal about his concerns that ratepayers in his district, Ocean Pines, were being treated unfairly by having to subsidize other financially failing service areas. The county’s general fund was tapped for $9 million in the end to cover the shortfalls.
At last week’s meeting, Bertino questioned a mistake by the county’s finance office, criticizing administration in public and alleging staff was “asleep at the switch.” It was reported the Ocean Pines wastewater account was used to cover deficits in other wastewater accounts due to developers not being charged for development in other areas. Bertino was sharp with administrators after they said the mistake was caught more than two months later. He said, “Why is it taking two and a half months? You don’t have an answer for it, do you?” An enterprise fund manager acknowledged, “it’s a big problem.”
There’s irony here, of course, as it was county government, led by a majority of elected officials, who two years ago sought greater financial oversight over the school system amid concerns of fiscal irregularities and funny business. It’s worth a reminder school funding requests were not met because of the commission majority’s concerns over transparency with the school system’s books.
Loss of beach access needs addressing
Editor,
Historically, the passing of Labor Day means fewer vacationers in town and only the sporadic hoopla surrounding the long standing annual events like Fall Cruisin, Bike Week and Sunfest. The late summer and early fall season is a wonderful time to enjoy the peaceful beach and still take a dip in the ocean before the temperatures begin to drop. It is a special time of year that we Locals tend to take for granted.
Sadly, for those of us who call downtown Ocean City home, this peaceful time of the year on the beach has been ripped away from us. My fellow residents and I are under siege due to Ocean City becoming the East Coast’s new concert mecca. I realize millions of dollars are generated because of the likes of Ocean’s Calling and Country Calling. For this reason, I know there will be no appetite for the Mayor and Town Council to scale these epic shows back. Dollars tend to dictate decisions and that is understandable. However, we are currently on a path that is having a dramatic adverse effect on the quality of life downtown. This issue must be addressed.
Many may think that the two concert weekends are just a few days and not a big deal. This is far from the truth. While generally supportive of the concerts, I have always been uncomfortable with the fact that everyone loses the access to the beach and boardwalk during the festivals. Having to pay to enter the boardwalk seems unfair to all, especially those of us who live Downtown and are actually losing the ability to walk in our
own front yard. But, it is just for a couple of days and I guess we can deal with a slight inconvenience if we are getting something out of it. Maybe the massive revenues earned by the Town will lower our tax bills? Perhaps first time visitors will come to Ocean City for a concert and like what they experience and will return for a vacation? All this can be positive and worth the hassle.
However, we have pushed the envelope way too far and it is coming at the expense of those of us who live downtown. It is not just a couple of weekends. The access to the beach has been shut off on September 15 from The Inlet, all the way up to 2nd Street. A half mile of beach closed to access for the enrichment of others. And in reality, the negative effects of the construction activity, heavy equipment exhaust and constant beeping sounds while vehicles are in reverse mean that you must go to at least 5th street or north to have a peaceful day at the beach.
Realistically, we are able to use our beach for recreation and relaxation from May thru September, making 5 full months of use of our wonderful surf and sand. These new concerts are restricting our access to the beach for a full month, which means 20% of possible beach days are now off limits. It is also important to remember, that this season has still been able to be revenue makers for those who rent their properties. This business is all but dead downtown because nobody wants to rent in the middle of a construction zone and a closed off beach. This is unacceptable and must be addressed.
In past regular meetings of the Mayor and Town Council this issue
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
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was addressed during public comment. In response, the Mayor was very empathetic and appreciated the patience of us who live downtown. It was said that we would be able to explore ways to mitigate the many inconveniences that we are being forced to experience. While it is too late for the 2025 season, it is time that we begin discussing some ideas for the 2026 concerts.
Again, I realize the concerts will not be going away, so we need to focus on making life better for those of us downtown. I offer two suggestions for consideration:
Owners of principle residences south of the Route 50 Bridge shall receive a complimentary pass for all concerts. To avoid scalping and resale, a system will be developed whereby the pass (wristbands) will only be distributed to these owners who have their principle residences in this area.
Owners of principle residences south of the Route 50 Bridge shall receive a wrist band loaded with $1,000 worth of credits for each concert that may be used for food and drink and is nontransferable to others.
The Mayor and Council has agreed that we are being extremely inconvenienced during this time. Not only are we losing access to our public boardwalk and beach, but we also
face the parking nightmares during the weekends in question and deal with the extreme amounts of trash and post-concert debris for days that follow. I was glad to know that the Town Leaders agreed there was a problem and one that needs to be looked into. So, I am trying to start a conversation that will make the 2026 concerts a tad less hellish for those of us who love and live downtown.
M. Scott Chismar Ocean City
Golf carts on roadways a ludicrous idea
(A copy of a letter addressed to the Ocean City Mayor and Council was shared with this publication.)
Editor,
I can not believe that there is discussion concerning golf carts on the roadways. Do you so quickly forget the talk of the problems we are having of scooters and bikes on the same roadways.
Presently the scooters and bikes do not follow the rules/regulations/laws. They are forever not following the traffic signals and feel that they can just run the lights. They must be made aware that they follow the same rules as vehicles. Last week I was at the light on Coastal Hwy and Rt 90.I was in back of a police vehicle. The light changed and a tractor trailer
proceeded through the red light and an SUV followed. And the police vehicle did nothing.
If law enforcement does nothing, then the problem will continue. Maybe the police officers should pay more attention to the traffic lights. Ride down Coastal Highway and you will see, time and time again of people running the lights.
Now you are thinking of allowing golf carts on the roadways. I cannot wait to see the "old timers" ( of which I am one) rolling down the road and doing the same as the scooters and bikes.
In the OC Today-Dispatch article a person said he would like to use a golf cart instead of his car. Well too bad. No golf carts on the roadways. Even thinking of this is ludicrous.
Jim Jarzynski Ocean City
Compromise needed in offshore wind issue Editor,
As a resident of Berlin, within an eight-minute drive of Ocean City, I often go there and take advantage of the beach, the ocean and its expansive views.
While I philosophically greatly support wind energy and its expansion, I can see and understand arguments, both economic and environmental, against the proposed installation within the site distance of Ocean City. I believe those involved should take a good hard look at a different location or a different environmentally safe and sustainable energy source. It seems the only voices which have spoken out on this issue are those totally committed to an unwelcome installation near one of our nation's top resource and fishing areas or those totally against it, who present no viable alternatives.
I grew up in one of the most polluted areas of New Jersey, not far from an Exxon refinery that exploded several times, and the Elizabeth area waterfront which saw several oil tankers leak toxic pollutants into the Arthur Kill section of the Hudson River. I certainly don't want to see it happen in the area to which I moved to get away from the destruction of the environment I saw where I was born and raised.
I hope both sides can tone down the rhetoric and come to a compromise that doesn't result in a return to the toxic pollution caused by either coal burning or pollution from oil or other soon-scarce and harmful fossil fuels. Although I am not an expert, I have lived through the negative and unhealthy effects of pollution and don't want to see it coming to the Delmarva Peninsula.
I have expressed my feelings both to the Environmental Defense Fund and Ocean City Mayor Rich Meehan, and occasionally to other state and federal officials, but have not as yet
received a response. I hope someone will answer my concerns shortly. Bob Faszczewski Berlin
Advisory committees needed in Ocean Pines
(The following letter was sent to the OPA Board of Directors prior to last Saturday’s meeting and vote with a copy forwarded for publication.)
Editor,
I am writing to express my disappointment in your decision to put forth a motion to disband most of the advisory committees. This disappointment has to do with the motion itself but also with the awareness that the community can expect no discussion of this motion that would reflect your having earnestly considered the ramifications of this decision.
The rationale presented in the proposed motion is that “OPA’s management team has grown in size and in depth of talent and ability.” The management team, as you know, is not there to be advisory to the board of directors, nor is their role to speak to governance issues. One of the most important governance duties of the board is to prioritize spending such that it reflects not only operational needs but also the priorities of
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the OPA members. The advisory committees have their fingers on the pulse of the membership’s priorities and have historically served as a conduit for information to the board about community priorities.
There is a long history of member priorities that were germinated and incubated in advisory committees then eventually got a life in the imaginations of the board and the general manager and came to fruition because the board did their job of approving the required funding. Among many great improvements that were first germinated in advisory committees are the electronic signs and good neighbor awards (Communications Committee); the statement of values and priorities that became wedded to the general manager’s priority list and formed the basis for the now published General Manager’s Strategic Plan (Strategic Planning Committee); several iterations of amendment and restatement of the OPA Bylaws (Bylaws Committee); Family Fun Night at the YC Pool (Aquatics); outsourcing our food and beverage operations (Clubs—already disbanded); expanding the pickleball courts and rebuilding the racquet center building (Racquet Sports); resisting the call to shut down the golf course and instead to invest in it (Golf); humane management of the
goose population (Environment and Natural Assets); Ocean Pines Expo (chairs of all the committees); to name a few. These have not only brought quality of life benefits to Association Members but have also directly or indirectly reaped financial rewards for OPA.
As you know, members of the board do not come to their positions with in-depth knowledge of all aspects of the social (amenities) and physical infrastructures of Ocean Pines. Historically, they have relied on the passion and knowledge of a broad spectrum of volunteers to be their eyes and ears on the ground in the form of advisory committee membership. As a former director, I am intimately familiar with the many ways in which the relationship between the board and its committees has been fraught, and both sides of that equation have required repeated reminders of the boundaries of their respective roles and responsibilities. This has not always been comfortable or seemed efficient, but nonetheless, outcomes were achieved that may never have come to fruition without the committee members’ lively discussion of pros and cons, and their passionate commitment to responding to and informing the board of the community’s priorities and wishes. We all owe a debt of gratitude to these passionate and hard-working
volunteers not only for the work they have done and the outcomes they have achieved, but for their courage to persist in their efforts to be heard (despite push-back from the board and vilification in social and news media). If approved, the motion you are considering is not only a slap in the face to these volunteers but it is also a huge loss of human capital and the potential improvements to our community these volunteers are yet to germinate and bring forth.
This board is one of the most opaque in recent memory for coming to meetings and voting on motions without any meaningful discussion of the pro’s and con’s of what is being proposed. I will applaud Steve Jacobs for being the consistent voice of dissent--if only in service of bringing forth minority community opinions on things. Yet, his attempts to spur honest debate have consistently fallen on deaf ears, and in some cases have been ridiculed by the board leadership. You can take a page from the playbook of your advisory committees who have modeled for you how to engage in earnest research and honest debate that fully examines a diverse complement of issues related to proposals they put forth to you (sometimes year after year until you finally see the light).
I urge you to at least engage in honest and earnest debate about this
motion before you — yet again — dismiss Steve Jacob’s comments and proceed to a mindless vote on this. More importantly, I urge you to withdraw the motion or vote against it. I regret that I am unable to attend your meeting on Saturday to express these thoughts in person.
Colette Horn Ocean Pines
(The writer is a past OPA Director, Secretary, Vice President, and President and past Liaison to the Communications, Parks & Rec, Strategic Planning, ARC, and Racquet Sports advisory committees.)
Committee work a benefit to the Pines community Editor,
On 20 September 2025, the Ocean Pines Board of Directors majority voted to disband most of the advisory committees in our home owner’s association, which existed for several decades. This day will be one of the saddest in Ocean Pines history when Directors with limited to no experience working in any of these committees decided they knew better now. Reasons included that the Ocean Pines management organization is now larger and has the “capability” to replace committee work, “lines of communication” between the committees and board were “inefficient
Experience Nature
and strained,” and the sitting committees were just “searching” for things to do. In my over 30 years as a project manager in the environmental industry, when there was a communication problem, I worked to resolve the breakdown and learned how to work with colleagues, not find ways to cut off communication channels. The Board has the luxury of high authority in this association and it is their responsibility to properly lead and communicate with other groups of people. As a former committee member and observing other committees, all of these members come from professional backgrounds with skills, talents, and energy ready to serve. We are not sitting robots waiting to be turned on to act. In my experience, the committees did not insist on or push certain actions, but only made recommendations with the full understanding that most may not be implemented based on further Board consideration. We all accepted that condition. We just wanted clear feedback as that was our experience as professionals.
It is a fallacy that committee work could easily be replaced with a paid staff member in the management organization. The committees provided many beneficial services for free, which represented what home owners desired in their association. I agree that some past committee actions were awkward, but that is what people do. We are not programmed robots. That is when leadership needs to step up and lead, not eliminate. It is another fallacy that intermittent ad-hoc workgroups could operate anything like the past committees. What will likely happen in the future is that Ocean Pines management will have to outsource at a great expense to business entities to fulfill some of those services, as has occurred in Captain’s Cove. Say good-bye to the low assessment fee and to most of the services we re-
ceived through the committees.
We can only hope that in the near future we can get new Board members with intelligent insight to repair the severe damage we now suffer. Unfortunately, it will be highly challenging to re-create the strength of the past committees that evolved over several decades.
Tim Peck Ocean Pines
Leaders not concerned about climate change
Editor,
As a senior citizen of Worcester County, I wonder how many of my fellow senior citizens are as concerned about Global Climate Change as I am. Apparently our county leaders are not too concerned as they do not support renewable energy sources such as the offshore wind farm like I do. I have invested in geothermal HVAC and LED lighting in my home in order to decrease my energy usage. It has paid off for me. Where is the concern from senior citizens for their children and grandchildren’s future? Do they realize they are committing their progeny to a future of increasingly stronger storms and air pollution far beyond what we have now? More is the shame on them.
A Worcester County Democrat, Tom Wieland Bishopville
No cell towers needed within Montego Bay
Editor,
Our community is deeply concerned by the recent decision to consider placing any type of cellular tower within Montego Bay. The recent newspaper headline and coverage were misleading and appeared to rely on a single, unvetted account
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without supporting medical or technical evidence.
By training and profession, I am grounded in journalism (magna cum laude), and my instinct is to verify facts through credible sources. To that end, I consulted cardiologists, a 15-year Microsoft Executive who has testified before our council on this very topic as she managed federal medical transmissions.
I also contacted Comcast executives, and wireless carriers. The conclusion is clear: our challenge is not 5G coverage — it is insufficient Comcast bandwidth.
Why this matters for medical needs (EKG/ECG transmission):
File sizes and stability. A 12-lead ECG PDF is typically small (~0.17 MB) and can be transmitted over virtually any connection. Longer recordings—event/patch monitors or Holter
studies—can be ~100 MB per session or larger for multi-day studies and benefit from higher, stable upload speeds.
Consumer devices. Devices such as AliveCor Kardia record locally and only need Wi-Fi or cellular to sync and share. They do not require 5G to capture a reading. Our healthcare systems must function reliably across standard broadband, not merely the latest cellular standard. Some devices have embedded cellular technology and can send data directly.
Telehealth reality. Remote cardiac monitoring is often paired with video visits, which require stable broadband on both ends to avoid lag or data loss. Cardiologists first preference is a landline, followed by a wired Ethernet connection which is far more reliable than Wi-Fi and is preferable for health-critical data.
Policy context. Maryland’s tele-
health framework places responsibility on providers to ensure reliable connections, and programs exist to support low-income households with internet (not cellular) service—e.g., Lifeline and the Connect Maryland/Office of Statewide Broadband initiatives.
Local findings. Over this past weekend, we were able to obtain two outsourced consultants. One engineer surveyed all streets on the south side of Montego Bay by land and the other by kayak in the waterways, with a concentrated focus around the two homes of the recent complainants. Measurements showed no drops below – 96 dBm, which is considered an excellent cellular signal on land and especially impressive over water. This further indicates the bottleneck is Comcast bandwidth, not cellular coverage.
What we are asking the Council to do:
• Work with Comcast to expand upload/download capacity in Montego Bay and to provide a community-wide proposal for increased bandwidth—potentially with discounted pricing for all 1,523 homes.
• While we would welcome the introduction of FiOS, the Town’s longstanding relationship with Comcast suggests a practical near-term path is
to negotiate greater bandwidth rather than pursue new 5G towers in our residential neighborhood.
• The news article indicated the City Council wants the Montego Bay Board of Directors to take a formal position on cellular towers. What speaks louder and more effectively than a 13-member Board of Directors, is the petition we presented to the city in October of 2021. Approximately 70% of our homeowners signed a petition to keep 5G cellular equipment out of Montego Bay. This community has been steadfast in its sentiments these last eight years that 5G hardware is not wanted and to be more precise, vehemently opposed to this.
I write this letter as a homeowner, not in my capacity as Secretary of the Montego Bay Civic Association. Since 2016, I have worked passionately on this issue.
I am grateful for the Council’s support over the years — especially Councilman DeLuca, who pledged, both personally and from the dais, to keep 5G cell towers out of residential neighborhoods.
Quoted from the January 31, 2019 article in The Dispatch. “Nonetheless, Councilman Tony DeLuca said he could not support the proposal be-
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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 410-7236397.
OBITUARIES
VICTOR HENRY BIRCH
West Ocean City
Victor Henry Birch passed away peacefully at home on September 22, 2025, at the age of 77. Born in 1948 to Curtis H. Birch and Esther Tubbs Birch at their home in West Ocean City.
Vic could often be seen riding tractors and working the fields of his farm. Everyone referred to him as the hardest working man they ever met. Farming was in his blood. Starting with his grandfather Will Birch then his father Curtis Birch to Vic & Sue and their children & grandchildren, all working side by side. The Birch Farm is a 5-generation legacy. In 1972 with his young wife Sue, they opened a small roadside produce stand, Birch’s Produce. With a lot of hard work, dedication and faith, the Birch farm grew to what it is today. In 1993 Vic along with his son Ronnie, took part of the farm to design & build together Assateague Greens, a par 3 golf course and driving range.
Vic attended Ocean City Elementary School on 4th Street in Ocean City, later graduated from Stephen Decatur and in 1967, married his high school sweetheart Susan Cropper. In June they celebrated 58 years of mar-
riage and 54 seasons of farming business partners. What a legacy.
While farming, family gatherings & hard work filled his days, he also loved working with his hands, woodwork and deer hunting. He and Sue enjoyed taking slow evening rides on country roads looking for deer and watching the waves at the inlet.
As a young man, Vic worked at the Boardwalk Bingo, as a carpenter and various other jobs in addition to farming to support his young family and build his dream home with his own two hands, something he was very proud of.
Vic is survived by his loving wife Susan Cropper Birch, his daughter Victoria “Vicki” Burns (Joel) and son Ronald James Birch (Tiffany); grandchildren Lindsey Birch Zirkle (Ryan), Tucker James Birch (Julyette) and Jacob Henry Burns; and great grandson Brewer Daniel Zirkle. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law Susan Cropper and Martha Cropper, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was proceeded in death by his brother Curtis W. Birch and sisters Doris B. Savage and Ruth B. Brown. A celebration of Vic’s life will be held on Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025, at 2 p.m. at Bethany United Methodist Church on Route 611 in Berlin. All are invited to attend and casual attire encouraged.
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Delaware Seaside Railroad Club
Model Train & Toy Show
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
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cause of the potential impacts on residents in those neighborhoods. ‘The more I think about this, they’re called small cell towers, but they really aren’t that small when they’re in your front yard,” he said. “It could affect property values. I’ll be a no vote on this.’”
City Manager, Terry McGean has demonstrated accomplished authority and been arm in arm in this battle with our community. His professional mastery withstood the lawsuit Crown Castle imposed upon the city. His dedication alone in addition to the financial investment it took to protect our Montego Bay community is respected and we will always be grateful.
The mayor has demonstrated a strong and consistent commitment to safeguarding our homeowners and preserving property values. Through-
out this challenging process, he has engaged closely with our community, carefully considering our input and implementing balanced solutions that serve the best interests of all parties.
We ask all members of the council to continue to protect the integrity, property values, aesthetics, and health of our Montego Bay community by focusing on the true source of inadequacy: inadequate broadband bandwidth, not cellular infrastructure.
Thank you, Editor, for your fair and factual reporting. Your perspective and published work play a vital role in shaping the attention of our town.
May your efforts always be guided by a steadfast commitment to the common good.
Holly Donovan Ocean City
Victor Birch
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In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Vic’s memory to St. Judes Children’s Hospital or the charity of your choice.
Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com.
ELIZABETH FLYNN DUFF Ocean Pines
Elizabeth (Betty) Flynn Duff, age 96, died on Monday, September 15, 2025, at Brightview Senior Living in Catonsville.
Born in Fayetteville, North Carolina, she was the daughter of the late Thelma Caddell Flynn and the stepdaughter of the late Charles A. Flynn, Jr. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased in 2015 by her loving husband of 65 years, James A. Duff.
She is survived by her four children, Catherine, James and his wife Karen, Michael and his wife Marilyn, and Matthew and his wife Jodi. She is also survived by eight grandchildren, Jacqueline, Elise, Kevin, Caitlin, Brian, Kellie, Shannon, and Patrick, as well as five great grandchildren, Frances, James, Tate, Elliott and Mason.
During her younger years she lived in various places as her stepfather worked for a Navy contractor and was assigned to sites for navy base construction from Florida to Virginia prior to and during World War II.
Mrs. Duff graduated from Benjamin Franklin University in Washington, D.C.
During her husband’s career with General Accounting Office, the family lived in Madrid and Paris. After returning to the states, they made their home in Bethesda, Maryland until Betty and her husband retired. After retirement, they moved permanently to Ocean Pines, Maryland in 1982.
In Ocean Pines, she became active in many community organizations and served on various boards. Mrs. Duff was a parishioner of St. John Neumann Catholic Church, where she served as a Eucharistic Minister and was a member of the Altar Guild. She also served as Secretary for the U.S.S. Miami, a reunion group for her husband’s WWII ship.
A viewing will be held on Monday, Sept. 29 from 5 to 7 p.m. at The Burbage Funeral Home, Berlin. A mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. John Neumann Catholic Church in Ocean Pines on Tuesday, Sept. 30 at 11 a.m. Interment will follow at Garden of the Pines Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Betty’s name to Gilchrist
(gilchristcares.org/donate). Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in care of The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin, Md.
MARVIN W. MERRITT
Ocean City
Marvin Wayne Merritt (Daddy-O, Marv, Uncle Marv, Marvie, FUM, Little Fuzzy), 68 of Pittsburgh, PA, formerly Ocean City, peacefully set sail August 29, 2025 to enjoy unlimited Bellybusters Cheesesteaks and Miller Lite’s, while surrounded by his “three girls”, and so much love from all of his family. He was born June 15, 1957 in Salisbury, MD to Preston Merritt and Ruby Hastings.
He is survived by the love of his life, Mary Ann Flaherty, his fur buddy, Kane, daughters Ashley & Alexis Merritt of Ocean City, MD, sister Billie Terrones, and nephews Christopher and Camden Eberly all of Kent Island, MD, and all of the old heads, young heads, and baby heads of Pittsburgh, Pa.
Marvin was an extraordinarily hard worker. He could literally fix anything and always loved lending a
helping hand. He worked in Ocean City, MD for Granville Trimper and his family for many years. He was then a long time employee of Rex Glass in Pittsburgh, Pa.
Beyond his work, he loved spending time with his family, especially summer and cabin vacations, he enjoyed sports, literally, any sport. OOOOOOOOOH how he loved his Orioles and his Redskins…Commanders…The Washington Football team or whatever the hell their name is. Although, he watched all sports, he was always faithful to his hometown teams, the Baltimore Orioles and the Washington Redskins and then The West Virginia Mountaineers and Pittsburgh Steelers. He loved watching the White Marlin Open, every year since childhood. Marvin was an observant, quiet guy, didn’t really say much, but when he did, he was pretty funny and always worth listening to.
He was preceded in death, and now, happily enjoying time with his beloved Aunt Ginny and Uncle Fuzzy. He was also predeceased by his parents, Preston Merritt and Ruby Hastings, and his precious (and spoiled) dog, Missy Jo.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the SZAFRANSKI-EBERLEIN FUNERAL HOME, INC. 101 3rd Street, Carnegie where family and friends will be received on Monday, September 1, 2025 from 11am until time of the Blessing Service at 1pm.
A Celebration of Life is being held in Ocean City on Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Inlet Lodge Bar. Dress will be casual; please wear a shirt that reminds you of Marvin and be prepared to share your stories with friends and family, we can’t wait to hear them! We’ll make our way to a couple other local favorites of Marvin’s downtown after the Celebration of Life winds down, feel free to come along as we continue celebrating our Marv.
$1,845.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Bridges Hospice at www.bridgeshospice.org.
Always remember love lives on. Marvin’s legacy of love and kindness will live on through the cherished memories held by his family and friends.
Submitted obituaries will cost $50.00 for print and
publications. A sales representative from our office will contact you for payment once your submission is sent.
Elizabeth Duff
Marvin Merritt
Sports & Recreation
Mallards win three straight after slow start
By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer
(Sept. 26, 2025) Worcester Prep’s varsity soccer team has turned its season around, winning three straight in five days after dropping their first three games of the year.
Last Friday during the Homecoming game, the Mallards blanked Holly Grove 2-0 behind a stellar outing by junior goalie Caleb Walston, who has moved from a field player to between the pipes where he is comfortable having played goalie in travel soccer. Walston’s first game in goal was a 2-
0 loss to a talented Delmar team on Sept. 18.
On Monday, the Fighting Mallards continued to right their season, winning 2-0 on their home field at Worcester Prep against a longtime rival, the Royals from Delmarva Christian High School.
The teams were knotted at zero until under a minute to go in the half when a beautiful through ball from freshman Zack McGovern found a sprinting Beckett Green, who broke through the defense to score the first goal of the game.
After the game, Green, one of four senior co-captains, said, “It felt very good to get the first goal. That’s a very good team; we have been conference rivals for a long time. A lot of battles over the years. Drawing that first goal out, just setting the tempo for the boys. That’s what we planned on doing and executed the plan perfectly. Planning is for a W, always having confidence in your team. I am loving our team right now.”
Green added, “Our next game is tomorrow on the road, two hours away so we have to stay focused, stay locked in when we go up there, Centreville, to take on Gunston.”
The second goal of the day against Delmarva Christian was made by McGovern with seconds left in the second period. Off a corner from Green, McGovern put in a header from the back pipe with 50 seconds left to seal the win.
The McGovern name is a familiar one at Worcester Prep, as his older brothers Dylan and Ben were both standouts throughout their varsity careers.
“I play soccer because of the passion ... my brothers all played soccer. One of them is playing D1 right now at George Washington,” said McGovern, referring to Ben, a freshman starter at the university.
“Ben is loving it up there. His passion for the game gives me the passion for the game and I’m loving it,” said McGovern, who said his older
brothers taught him to use his head through “repetition” and “training sessions at 7 a.m. each morning.”
In the game Green mentioned against Gunston, the Mallards stayed hot, winning 2-1.
Late in the second half the game was tied 1-1 until senior co-captain Chase Ginnavan stuck a direct kick from outside the box in the top corner to secure the victory.
The Mallards returned home on Thursday to square off with The Salisbury School in a game too late for print.
PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
Senior Beckett Green breaks away to give the Mallards a 1-0 lead with seconds left to play in the first half of Monday’s game against Delmarva Christian.
PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
Delmarva Christian’s Jay Parrish fights to maintain possession amid pressure from Prep senior Jake Campbell and freshman Zach McGovern. Goalie Caleb Walston is also shown.
PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
Senior Chase Ginnavan heads the ball away from the goal during Monday night’s game against the Royals of Delmarva Christian High School.
PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
Despite being overmatched in size, freshman Artemiy Klimins battles through Delmarva Christian wing Cam Smithson to gain control in the first half.
Decatur volleyball team on a four-game winning streak
By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer
(Sept. 26, 2025) The Seahawks varsity volleyball team won its fourth straight game on Tuesday, Sept. 23, sweeping Pocomoke High School in three sets - 25-22, 25-14 and 25-17.
During the month of September, the Stephen Decatur girls’ volleyball team lost its first two games, but then the tide changed. The Seahawks won against Snow Hill 3-1, the next to fall to their improving defense was Parkside High School 3-1, followed by a win against Wicomico High School 30 on the road and then Tuesday’s 3-0 win.
The team has showed strong net play throughout the year led by Chloe Jones, Alice Bickle and Lila Gunther. Junior Gunther contributes her good net work to, “we just practice really hard. The coaches work with us a lot, one-on-one.”
Coach Elle Nichols said, “I think
our serving and receiving has improved and that’s something we’ve been working hard on, and I also think the girls, were playing good defense at the net, so if they didn’t get the first block, they were able to pass the ball and that’s also something we’ve been working on.”
Since practices began in mid-August, Nichols said she has been excited by the improvements from her players.
“So, it’s good to see the improvements being made. I know the girls are going to work hard every day at practice and we have good competition, but we have a really strong team this year,” she said. “We’re excited to see what they do. They got to want to win, and I think they have the will and the drive this year. So, I think we’re going to go far.”
The next home game is Tuesday, Sept. 30 at 5 p.m. against James M. Bennett Senior High School.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
Chloe Jones puts away a winner in Decatur’s win over Pocomoke Tuesday night at home.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
Becca Kemp cleanly sets up her teammate for a return in the third set.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
Zoe Hinkle goes down the line for a winner in the second set on Tuesday.
FISH IN OC WITH SCOTT LENOX
Captain Jason Mumford of Lucky Break put this group, above left, on 11 keeper sheepshead and a keeper tautog. Above right, the crew of the private boat Instigator had an awesome overnight trip The crew of the Instigator, above left, had an incredible overnight trip with three bigeye tuna, 12 yellowfin tuna, 14 longfin albacore and a pile of mahi. One of the albacore was 78 pounds and will be a new Maryland State Record for the species. Above right, the crew of the Boss Hogg with Captain Alex Beane had an insane day with a blue marlin, 14 white marlin, a yellowfin tuna and a pile of mahi.
PHOTOS COURTESY FISH IN OC
PHOTOS COURTESY FISH IN OC
Above left, these two doormat flounder ended up in the net of On the Run with Captain Dave Caffrey. Above middle, Captain Mark Hoos of the Marli put this group on four white marlin releases and a pile of mahi. Above right, this couple found keeper sheepshead, trout and flounder while fishing with Captain Jason Mumford of Lucky Break. Below left, N ick Shreve caught this big 7-pound, 10-ounce flounder fishing over ocean structure. Below middle, this big bull red drum was caught and released on board the Wound Tight with Captain Shawn Gibson. Below right, Captain Chris Watkowski of Spring Mix II showed this crew a good time with two white marlin releases and some mahi.
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