10/30/26 OC Today-Dispatch by OC Today-Dispatch

OC Today-Dispatch OCTOBER 30, 2026

STUBBORNLY LOCAL, EQUALLY INDEPENDENT

Ocean City is all about the Ford Bronco this weekend — Page 57

PRICELESS

OCEAN CITY

Election insights, profiles Resort voters face a major contest for mayor and a four-way race for three seats on the City Council. And that’s just the city election ballot. The county and state offices have their own contested battles. SEAS THE MOMENT — COVERAGE INSIDE Last week’s nor’easter brought some of the cleanest, most rideable swells of the fall to Ocean City. Above, local Sam Deeley is pictured after dropping PHOTO COURTESY TYLER LAYTON

in one of the largest waves of the day.

audit Annual ritual: more bridge work School finds no woe You can tell when it’s off-season on the beach by counting how many lanes are open on the Route 50 bridge. Come January, there will be the usual lane closures, but this time it will be so State Highway Administration crews can put a new coat of paint on the 84-year-old structure. — PAGE 10

Auditors issue clean opinion of Worcester County Public Schools books. — PAGE 22

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OC Today-Dispatch

OCTOBER 30, 2026

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The Ocean City Council this week was presented with a review of the resort’s finances.

OC’s financial audit reveals no discrepencies, firm says By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Oct. 30, 2026) An audit of Ocean City government’s finances found no problems and resulted in no opinions filed by the city’s auditing firm for the fiscal year ending June 30. During a work session Tuesday, SB & Company’s Chris Lehman presented the Ocean City Council with an audit report on the city’s financial statements for fiscal year 2026. He said his firm was presenting the city with a clean, unmodified opinion. “That would be the best opinion we could give under professional standards,” he said, “and that reads to say that the statements are reasonably free of material misstatement.” Lehman said his firm saw no significant findings, material weaknesses or instances of fraud. He also recognized city staff for its cooperation, as well as the accuracy and validity of the city’s financial entries. “Lastly, we had no audit journal entries that we proposed to management, which speaks to the quality of the books that we were provided to audit,” he said. Finance Director Shawn Bunting also presented the council with the city’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for fiscal year 2026. He reported that the city’s net position increased by $22.5 million, with a $13.9 million increase reported for governmental activities and a $8.6 million increase reported for business-type activities. “Financially, the town did very well in FY26,” he said. During fiscal year 2026, revenues increased by 12.2% from the prior year, to $183.6 million, while expenses increased 6.4%, to $161.1 million. Under governmental activities, revenues increased by $14.2 million. A bulk of that uptick was attributed to increases in property tax revenues ($6 million), service charges ($2.9 million) and other tax revenues ($2.8 million). “The room tax rate, as you know,

increased from 5% to 6% in January 2026. That led to an $800,000 increase in room taxes,” Bunting said. “The concerts have contributed to higher admissions and amusement taxes in recent years, and A&A taxes were up over $700,000 this year.” On the other side of the balance sheet, expenses increased $7.3 million. Driving that increase were public safety costs (up $7.2 million), personnel costs (up $5 million) and capital-related costs (up $1.4 million). “Additional police take-home vehicles that were purchased during the fiscal year and any associated upfitting costs, fuel, maintenance, etcetera, helped drive the increase,” Bunting added. Overall, revenues exceeded budget estimates by $5.8 million, while expenditures came in $480,000 less than budget estimates, creating a favorable variance of $6.4 million. The general fund’s unassigned fund balance ultimately increased $7.3 million, representing 31.6% of general fund expenditures. “The town’s policy is to maintain an unassigned fund balance of at least 17% of general fund expenditures, so we’re obviously above that,” Bunting said. “However, with recent increases in health insurance costs … beach replenishment cost sharing increases, etcetera, there’s not as much of a cushion as it may appear in unassigned fund balance.” Bunting added that credit rating agencies consistently point to the city’s high reserve levels as the main factor in the good ratings they give Ocean City. “So there is a financial benefit to maintaining a healthy fund balance,” he said. With that said, council members asked if the city’s reserve policy rate should increase from 17% to 20%. Officials agreed to explore the change during the strategic planning process. “We increased it from 15% to 17% a few years back,” City Manager Terry See OFFICIALS Page 6

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OC Today-Dispatch

OCTOBER 30, 2026

Officials could up reserve level

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Continued from Page 3 McGean said. “We can talk about it in strategic planning if you all want.” Under business-type activities – departments that are supported by user fees and charges – the water fund’s net position increased by $1 million, the wastewater fund’s net position increased by $3.4 million, and the transportation fund’s net position decreased by $920,000. “FY26 was also the first full year with no tram revenue,” Bunting said. “So that was a $750,000 hit to this fiscal year.” The convention center reported a $420,000 increase in net position, while the airport reported a $4.1 million increase in net position and the golf course reported an increase of $550,000. “The golf course had operating revenue of $140,000 more from the prior year,” Bunting said, “but their operating expenses increased by$350,000, mostly due to higher personnel and maintenance costs.” Officials this week also reviewed the city’s pension plans and other post-employment benefits, all of which reported a 12% return on investment. “It’s the second best return we’ve had in the last 10 years,” Bunting said. The funded ratio for other postemployment benefits increased to 158%. The general employees pension plan is now funded at 95%, while the public safety employees pension plan is funded at 92%. “This is pretty significant …,” James said. “There are some municipalities that can't afford their pension plans at all.” Bunting on Tuesday also reviewed the city’s debt obligations. In total, the city issued $47.8 million in general obligation bonds for fiscal year 2026. Its net debt increased $41.8 million. “We’re still well below our legal debt limit,” he said. “The numbers look great,” Councilman John Gehrig said.

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OCTOBER 30, 2026

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OCTOBER 30, 2026

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OCTOBER 30, 2026

Next phase of bridge work planned for winter By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Oct. 30, 2026) State Highway Administration District Engineer Mark Crampton told Ocean City officials this week to prepare for the next round of closures at the Route 50 bridge. During a biannual update Tuesday, Crampton reported the agency’s plans to start the next round of improvements at the drawbridge this winter. Between January and March, SHA will begin painting the bridge span. “The contractor that's got that work is now working on the Pocomoke bridge,” he told the Ocean City Council this week. “And as soon as they're finished, they're coming up here to start that one after the first of the year. So, I look forward to the next time we meet, when that one's done and the bridge is as pretty as we can make it for an 80-something-year-old bridge.” In 2023, work reconvened on a rehabilitation project on the Route 50 bridge and continued in several planned phases. Just last year, for example, the bridge was closed for weeks in January as crews made repairs to the interlocking mechanism that opens and closes the two spans. Single-lane closures continued through March as crews worked to replace old rivets on the bridge.

BETHANY HOOPER/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

The Maryland State Highway Administration will begin a painting project at the drawspan of the Route 50 bridge, pictured above, this winter. The agency’s district engineer, Mark Crampton, said the project will result in the last round of bridge closures.

“We've been working on some of the purlin replacements (horizontal framing that supports the bridge deck), replacing rivets with bolts, doing some of the mechanical work over the last few seasons,” Crampton said this week. “And so hopefully, this is going to be the last winter shutdown from like January to March, where we can actually get this bridge painted, obviously in the down position.” Crampton this week also talked about a plan to raise the intersection at the base of the Route 50 bridge. While the elevated “tabletop” design

would help relieve flooding at the intersection, he said the state has not been able to secure grant funding for the project. “So it’s following a more traditional federal aid route for getting funding,” he said. Further north, SHA will also begin a resurfacing project along Coastal Highway, from the MarylandDelaware line to 60th Street. In preparation for that work, Crampton said crews will be making ADA improvements along the highway, and raising manhole covers, which have been

buried underneath the concrete. “I know several years ago, we had a flooding issue where we had to get those open and clean out some storm drain pipes that were filled with sand,” he said. “So, our plan is we want to raise those structures back up to grade, and if it's an issue with a lid being loose or something like that, there's ways to deal with that. But I don't think it makes sense to bury those again.” Crampton this week also provided an update on the dualization of the See SHA Page 14

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OCTOBER 30, 2026

Early vote counts down from ’24, up from ’22 By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Oct. 30, 2026) Early vote counts through Wednesday show Worcester County turnout at about half the pace of the 2024 presidential election – but ahead of the same point in Maryland’s last gubernatorial election. A total of 4,315 ballots were cast during the first seven days of early voting ahead of the Nov. 3 general election, according to data from the Maryland State Board of Elections. That represents 9.6% of the county’s 44,526 eligible voters. The breakdown after seven days by party was Republicans, 2,221; Democrats, 1,443; and unaffiliated, 594. Early voting began Oct. 22 and ended Thursday, Oct. 29. Worcester County’s early voting site was the Roland E. Powell Convention Center in Ocean City. Data through Wednesday show the busiest early voting day was the first day, Friday, Oct. 22., when 906 people cast ballots. Another 810 voted Oct. 23, followed by 341 on Oct. 24, and 291 on Oct. 25. Voting picked up again this past Monday, with 684 ballots cast, followed by 645 Tuesday, and 638 on Wednesday. The opening two days accounted for about 40% of the county’s early ballots

STAFF PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Community members are pictured casting their votes early at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center in Ocean City. Early voting began Oct. 22 and ended yesterday, Oct. 29.

through Wednesday. In 2024, when the presidency was on the ballot, the county recorded 8,777 early voters during the first seven days. This year, the count through Wednesday was lower by 4,462 voters – a drop of 50.8%. When compared with the last gubernatorial election in 2022 – where voters elected political newcomer Wes Moore (D) over former state delegate Dan Cox (R) – the pattern shifts. In that race, the first seven days of early voting recorded 3,429 early voters. That puts this year’s early vote count ahead by 886 voters, or 25.8%.

For both 2022 and 2024, Worcester County recorded more early voters during the final four days than during the first four days. The figures don’t include mail-in and provisional ballots. Worcester County also has a bigger pool of residents in 2026 than the last two elections: the active voter population grew from 42,116 in 2022 and from 43,247 in 2024, state elections figures show. Earlier elections also show a steep drop among county voters taking to the polls early. In the 2016 presidential election, Worcester County recorded 7,321 vot-

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ers, compared with 6,727 in the 2018 gubernatorial election, and 13,174 in the 2020 presidential election. Locally, six of the seven Worcester County Commissioners’ seats are already settled, leaving one contested seat in the general election. After Joe Schanno defeated incumbent Chip Bertino in the District 5 (Ocean Pines) GOP primary, Schanno will face Vicky Wallace, a Democrat. The state’s early voting reports are labeled unofficial. Thursday’s ballot count, which will be compiled today, would complete this year’s early voting period before Election Day on Tuesday.

SHA, OC council discuss projects Continued from Page 10 Route 90 bridge. With the planning phase now started, he said it would likely be years before construction can begin. “I figure three years of planning, three years of design, and then you're looking at construction, if they can get the money, and it's a big number,” he said. “So I don't know if they would be doing that in phases or maybe doing the bridges first and trying to connect the dots from one end to the other. That'll kind of be vetted out in the planning phase for what makes the most sense.” Crampton this week also revisited an incident from earlier this year, in which a light pole fell on the Route 90 bridge. He said an investigation revealed a potential material failure or metal fatigue. Crampton also told city officials this week that the State Highway Administration was working with the city’s tourism department to implement a new lighting display at the Route 50 bridge. However, given the light failure at the Route 90 bridge, he said he wanted to ensure the integrity of any lights they choose. “I don't want to put those lights up and God forbid something fails on that,” he said.

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OC’s substation expansion in design phase By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Oct. 30, 2026) Delmarva Power representatives say they continue to make utility improvements in Ocean City. During Tuesday’s work session, Delmarva Power’s James Jones Jr. came before the Ocean City Council to provide an update on two utility projects taking place in the resort. Downtown, the company is in the process of expanding its 2nd Street substation. “As you all well know, the point of the substation expansion really was two things,” he said. “One, for beautification. We understand that Ocean City likes to stay beautiful, so some of that old, outdated substation didn't really look great, especially for tourism. “And two, on our end, is reliability. We want to make sure that we're getting Ocean City reliable energy, so you guys can keep the lights on and keep folks coming in for wonderful events like Country Calling.” Jones said the company was 30% of the way through its design phase, with plans to reach 60% completion by the end of the year. The project, he added, would also include a new control house, which would need city approval. “As some of you know, we submit-

BETHANY HOOPER/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

The battery energy storage system is pictured above this week from its location at 100th Street, behind the Ocean City library.

ted a rendering for a control house for the substation, and you guys said it looked bad – that it was gray, that it was unsightly, that it didn't really meet the aesthetic requirements for what Ocean City wants it to be,” he said. “So, we currently have designers rendering a new, more aesthetically pleasing control house, which we're looking to have submitted to you all by the end of the year for that substation expansion.” Provided that the city approves those plans, Jones said construction

work should begin in the fall of next year. “That's the goal that we have,” he said. “But as you know, sometimes projects can be delayed for a number of factors. But that's where we stand now.” When asked if the company had plans to raise equipment at the substation, city officials said they believed that was the case. “You know, with the level of the downtown area and flooding that we do receive in that area, that station has been shut down during storms in

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the past,” Mayor Rick Meehan said. “We're trying to make sure that doesn't have to happen, and that was a primary concern. I think a priority for us is the elevation of that equipment, so we don't face that type of circumstance.” In addition to the 2nd Street substation, Jones also provided an update on the 100th Street battery storage system. While the facility is now constructed, he noted that a fire marshal inspection and remote access were needed before it could become fully operational. “So right now, that battery storage unit is functioning and can be manually connected and working,” he said In 2022, the mayor and council approved a conditional use permit allowing Delmarva Power to build a battery energy storage system, or BESS, at 100th Street, contingent upon completion of a land swap agreement with the Town of Ocean City. And despite a series of delays, the utility company received site plan approval the following year to begin building the facility. Officials with Delmarva Power say the storage system will act as a backup when an issue arises with critical infrastructure. The system will also provide capacity for when energy use is low and support the power grid when demand is high. “As a tourist town, you guys have peak load times, specifically in the summer,” Jones told council members this week. “So, the battery storage project is to relieve some of that load that you see in times of high usage. The battery storage will be able to feed power into the local energy grid and, you know, deliver energy into homes in Ocean City.” When asked if the storage facility could also be used as a backup generator during outages, Jones said it currently did not have that capability. “That's not what the predominant use is going to be, as it stands now,” he replied. “Right now, it would just be to relieve load during peak times. But in the future, it is a possibility.”

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As citizens in the Town of Ocean City, we have been very gifted to have had Rick Meehan with us in public office for 41 years. “Give the gift that keeps on giving.” Re-elect Rick Meehan as your Mayor of Ocean City. A city that he has really loved since day 1. RE-ELECT MAYOR RICK MEEHAN I’m Russell Maykrantz and I approve this message.

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OCTOBER 30, 2026

Committee looks over new housing project off 589 By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Oct. 30, 2026) Worcester County planning officials have reviewed plans for County Commissioner Eric Fiori’s new commercial boat dealership along Route 50. The plans were among three projects on the Worcester County Technical Review Committee’s Oct. 14 agenda, alongside a 59-home community near Ocean Pines, and a storage building off Ocean Gateway. Fiori’s proposal calls for two structures at 11894 Ocean Gateway: a main building with 8,000 square feet for sales, offices, service, and parts, and then an 8,960-square-foot warehouse. The 14-acre wooded property had been home to a drive-in movie theater from 1954 to 1976. Plans identify a 2,000-square-foot showroom and 6,000 square feet for service and parts, including seven service bays. The lot would be served by a well and septic system. County environmental staff said the warehouse would be used only for dry storage, without utilities. Fiori (District 3, West Ocean City) lost his original Berlin-area facility almost a year ago in a three-alarm fire. Fire companies from three counties responded to the blaze at the 13,000square-foot facility on Worcester Highway near Friendship Road. Nobody was hurt. County zoning staff requested clarification of the new facility’s outdoor display area because different portions of the plans list conflicting sizes, according to documents in the meeting packet. Staff also noted that the front display lot must meet a 100-foot setback or receive a variance from the Board of Zoning Appeals. The Planning Commission is the approving authority for the site plan. Farther north along Racetrack Road, developer Ocean Pines Plaza Partnership is proposing a 59-unit housing project named “Outer Banks.” The 14.7-acre site is located about 1,000 feet north of the North Gate entrance to the Ocean Pines community. The concept includes 34 duplex dwellings and 25 townhouses, plus a community center, pool, and playground. Vista Design, the project’s engineer, describes the attached homes as intended to offer a more affordable option than new-construction detached houses. Water and sewer service remains an outstanding requirement. County environmental staff said the property has no allocations for the proposed homes, and applications to expand the Ocean Pines service area and amend the county’s water and sewer plan were being processed. See PLANNERS Page 20

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Planners review project near OP

BETHANY HOOPER/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

DEMO BEGINS AT OC RACQUET CENTER Crews begin demolition work at the Ocean City Racquet Center this week to make room for a new facility at the base of the Route 90 bridge. The new, 2,600-square-foot building will have an office, restrooms and retail space, as well as a lounge area that can accommodate camps and special events. Outside, new pickleball courts and resurfaced tennis courts will be included into the project.

Continued from Page 18 The proposal is at the first stage of the residential planned community process, which requires a Planning Commission recommendation and a public hearing before the Worcester County Commissioners. The proposal is not impacted by the commissioners’ ongoing 12-month moratorium on new rezoning applications along Route 589, according to county planning director Jennifer Keener. The third project heard by the Technical Review Committee is a warehouse storage building proposed by Fisher Family Partnership at 11502 Ocean Gateway. The narrow parcel sits between Route 50 and Samuel Bowen Boulevard. It used to house an old farmhouse that’s since been demolished, and its well and septic system were properly abandoned, according to county environmental staff. The review committee approved the minor site plan, subject to addressing staff comments and obtaining any necessary Planning Commission waivers. Zoning staff said Planning Commission waivers would be needed for gravel parking and driving areas and omission of required landscape screening.

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School system ends FY26 in positive position By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Oct. 30, 2026) Worcester County Public Schools ended fiscal year 2026 with about $172,000 more in revenue than expenditures, according to an annual audit presented to the Worcester County Board of Education last week. Chris Lehman, a partner with SB & Company, presented the audit’s findings at the Worcester County Board of Education meeting last Wednesday. The firm issued an unmodified, or clean, opinion on the school system’s financial statements. SB & Company was selected to conduct the audit after the school system issued a request for proposals to change firms for the first time in many years, said Worcester County Public Schools Chief Financial Officer Vince Tolbert. The audit found no material weaknesses in internal controls, no evidence of fraud, and no need for audit adjustments, Lehman said. He also noted that the school system’s actual revenues and expenditures were close to its budgeted figures. The presentation covered the school system’s financial statements for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026. A separate federal compliance audit, known as a single audit, remains underway and is expected to be com-

pleted by the end of the calendar year. Although the audit showed a positive difference between revenues and expenditures, board members emphasized that the amount available to carry forward is significantly smaller than the $1.6 million positive variance initially discussed during the presentation. The general fund’s final budget projected about $139 million in revenue and $141 million in expenditures. Actual revenue came in at approximately $140 million, while expenditures were also about $140 million. Revenue exceeded the budget by roughly $1 million, while expenditures came in below budget by approximately $500,000, Lehman said. Together, those differences produced a positive variance of about $1.6 million compared with the original budget projections. However, the budgetary carryover available for the next fiscal year was approximately $739,000, Lehman explained. After accounting for the $567,000 needed to be carried forward, about $172,000 remained available for the board to consider during its fiscal year 2028 budget process. Board member Jon Andes distinguished the overall budget variance from the amount actually available for future spending.

“I don’t want our community to think we had a $1.6 million surplus,” Andes said. “I wanted our community to understand that in actuality, it’s about $170,000.” Lehman confirmed that the school system finished the year about $172,000 ahead on a budgetary basis. Board President Todd Ferrante noted that the school system operates with a “very thin” financial margin. Andes said the additional money is a one-time carryover rather than a recurring revenue source. The board will need to decide how to handle the amount as part of its FY2028 budget process. Officials noted that the school system has historically sought input from the Worcester County Commissioners on how to appropriate such funds. Ferrante added that the carryover does not account for any additional expenses the school system may face in the coming year. The audit also provided a more indepth look at the school system’s financial position. As of June 30, total assets for governmental activities were approximately $223 million, while total liabilities were about $164 million. Roughly $140 million of those liabilities were attributed to other post-employment benefits, or OPEB. Governmental activities generated

approximately $190 million in revenue during FY2026, up from $185 million the previous year. Expenses increased to about $150 million, up from $138 million in the prior fiscal year. The difference increased the net position by just under $40 million for the year. During the discussion, board members also clarified that the presentation covered the school system’s routine annual financial audit, not a separate forensic review the board had ordered. In June, the board voted unanimously to hire the firm CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen LLP) to conduct a comprehensive review of the school system’s financial practices. The move followed embezzlement charges against a former assistant superintendent who stole over $100,000 of Title I funds for personal purchases. Lehman said last week that the firm had no negative findings to report to date. “We did not propose any audit adjustments,” Lehman said, adding that the firm found no fraud and had received full cooperation from school system management. The federal single audit remains in progress, and Lehman said it is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

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OC Today-Dispatch

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Judge dismisses most claims in deputy suit Former sheriff’s deputy’s lawsuit narrowed as one harassment claim proceeds By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Oct. 30, 2026) A federal judge has dismissed most claims in a former Worcester County sheriff’s deputy’s discrimination lawsuit, leaving a sexual harassment claim against the state and sheriff to proceed. Shane Baker, 50, of Selbyville, alleged in court documents that his supervisor, Lt. Bethany Ramey, pressured him into a sexual relationship. He said working conditions after he disclosed the affair compelled him to resign. Ramey, who has since retired from the sheriff’s office, is not named as a defendant in the suit. The Maryland Office of the Attorney General, representing the state and Sheriff Matt Crisafulli, argued Baker’s allegations contradicted his statements to investigators. Court documents show Baker described the relationship to internal affairs investigators as consensual and denied that he felt harassed. “The distress Mr. Baker now attributes to Defendants – stress, drinking, the strain of sustaining a se-

cret affair – was, on his own account, the product of a relationship he initiated, sustained, and chose not to end for three years,” the attorney general’s office wrote. Crisafulli declined to comment, citing the pending litigation. U.S. District Judge James K. Bredar allowed the harassment claim to proceed without deciding whose account was true. In his Oct. 21 opinion, Bredar said it was too early in the case to weigh the investigative records against Baker’s allegations. Baker began working under Ramey as a courthouse deputy in 2021. Court documents state both were married at the time. He alleged she initiated the relationship by flirting with him. Ramey told investigators that Baker pursued her and that she welcomed and reciprocated his advances. Ramey acknowledged giving Baker preferential treatment and alleged that he threatened to expose their relationship to obtain favorable assignments, court documents show. She also said they had agreed to deny the relationship if questioned, an account investigators said was supported by text messages. In December 2024, Baker disclosed the relationship to Chief Deputy Nate Passwaters, prompting

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an outside investigation by the Ocean City Police Department. Baker was put on paid administrative leave Dec. 18 and resigned two days later. During this time, Baker was an elected member of the Wicomico County Council, representing District 3. The former Delmar resident took office in 2022 and resigned April 17, 2025. Ocean City’s investigators in an April 2025 report concluded that both Baker and Ramey violated agency policies and recommended termination for both. Baker filed a discrimination charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission in May 2025. The agency dismissed it without deciding its merits in February 2026 and notified him of his right to sue.

He filed suit May 1, alleging federal and state employment discrimination, retaliation, and negligent supervision and retention. He sought back pay, compensatory and punitive damages, and attorney’s fees, though he later withdrew his punitive damages request. In his discrimination filing, Baker in his own words alleged that Ramey pressured him to keep their relationship secret because disclosure would jeopardize her job and family. He described meeting Ramey at Dunkin’ Donuts, Royal Farms, Food Lion, and other locations, including encounters in bathrooms involving kissing and intimate touching. He denied to investigators that they ever had intercourse. “I started drinking heavily, having See JUDGE Page 24

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OCTOBER 30, 2026

Living shoreline project at uptown park moving ahead

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Ocean City is proceeding with a living shoreline project at Northside Park. Environmental Construction Company will control erosion in eastern and western locations of the park’s pier.

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Oct. 30, 2026) A living shoreline project in Ocean City will move forward following a bid award Tuesday. During this week’s work session, the Ocean City Council unanimously agreed to award a $110,850 bid to Preston-based Environmental Construction Company for a living shoreline project at Northside Park. The company, officials say, will install erosion control measures in both the eastern and western locations of the park’s pier. “Environmental Construction Company is the apparent low bid for this project, at a bid submission valuation of $110,850 …,” Procurement Manager Matt Perry told officials this

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week. “As this project is fully funded from the grant opportunity provided by Maryland Coastal Bays Foundation,” he continued, “the procurement department’s formal recommendation to the Mayor and City Council would be to fully award the bid to Environmental Construction Company in the amount of $110,850 with expenditure approval up to the full grant amount.” Earlier this month, the council received submissions from seven companies to complete the shoreline work, with bids ranging from $110,850 to $373,000. Environmental Construction was the apparent low bidder. Following a motion to remand the bids, city staff spent the following weeks reviewing the proposals. And on Tuesday, they brought back a recommendation to award the bid to Environmental Construction. As part of this week’s motion to approve the bid award, city officials agreed to support expenditures of up to $167,113 for the duration of the project. The entire project, officials say, will be funded by an Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, a federal grant awarded to the Maryland Coastal Bays Foundation with the Town of Ocean City as a subrecipient. “Funding at this level addresses completion of the entire project scope while providing Town of Ocean City staff contingency funding for unknowns that may be identified during its completion,” a staff report reads.

Judge explains Baker suit ruling Continued from Page 23 issues with my family, spiraling out of control and did not know what to do,” he wrote. The judge wrote that Baker’s allegations of unwanted advances and pressure tied to his career were enough for the harassment claim to proceed. The retaliation claim failed, the judge added, because Baker did not provide enough specifics showing how paid leave harmed him or how working conditions effectively forced him to quit. The judge dismissed Worcester County government as a defendant because Baker did not provide enough facts showing that county government controlled his employment. The judge also dismissed Baker’s claims under Maryland law against the state and Sheriff Crisafulli because they have immunity against such claims in federal court.

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RETIREE RECOGNITION The mayor and Ocean City Council, alongside command staff with the Ocean City Police Department recognized Sgt. James “J Rod” Rodriguez this week with proclamations, citations and a key to the city. The longtime employee is retiring from the agency after 25 years of service. Pictured, center, is Rodriguez, with his wife, OCPD personnel and the elected officials.

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Erin Spillane, M.D. Dr. Erin Spillane is a board-certified dermatologist, who holds a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) from Cornell University and earned her medical degree from the University of Maryland School of Medicine in Baltimore Maryland, where she was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha National Medical Honor Society. She completed her dermatology residency at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, MD. Dr. Erin is proud to have served as an active duty U.S. Army physician for 8 years, most recently as the Chief of Dermatology at Womack Army Medical Center, Fort Bragg, NC. During her tenure at Fort Bragg, Dr. Erin completed a tour in Afghanistan, serving as the Theater Consultant for Dermatology in support of Operating Enduring Freedom. Her primary areas of expertise include medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology, with an emphasis on the treatment and prevention of skin cancers and photo-aging, skin cancer screening, as well as the diagnosis and treatment of common dermatologic disorders such as acne, psoriasis and eczema, disorders of the hair, and rheumatologic diseases affecting the skin. Dr. Erin is a proud wife and mother. She enjoys the outdoors and horseback riding, and is treasuring her new-found experiences of life on the Eastern Shore.

Conor May, PA-C Conor May is a board-certified Physician Assistant with a strong background in medical dermatology. He earned his Master of Clinical Medical Science degree from Barry University and holds multiple state licenses, including Maryland and Delaware. Conor began his career in dermatology as a medical assistant, where he gained valuable hands-on experience assisting with procedures such as skin cancer excisions, biopsies, and photodynamic therapy. His early exposure to patient care and procedural dermatology solidified his passion for the field and shaped his patient-centered approach. He is dedicated to providing comprehensive, compassionate care to patients of all ages and remains committed to staying current in the rapidly evolving field of dermatology through continuing education and professional development. His clinical interests include skin cancer detection and treatment, acne management, psoriasis, eczema, and preventive skin health. Outside of work, Conor enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, cooking, and fishing.

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SUBMITTED RENDERING/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Massive renovations are planned for the former Tyson Foods processing plant, located off Old Ocean City Boulevard. A schematic shows what the finished development’s grounds could look like in the future.

Town of Berlin and Gillises settle on Heron Park parcel Staff reports (Oct. 30, 2026) After five years of agreements, rejections and disappointments, the former poultry processing plant property at Heron Park has been sold for $1.2 million to Palmer and Sandy Gillis of Ocean City, Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall confirmed Tuesday. Now that the deal has gone through, the Gillises can proceed with their plans to convert the husk of the former Tyson

Food plant and surrounding properties into a mix of commercial properties. “I want to thank the citizens of Berlin, our local partners, and the State of Maryland for their continued support throughout this redevelopment process,” Tyndall said in a Facebook post. After the closing, a new Facebook page called The Exchange at Heron Park was created. See PARK’S Page 31

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OCTOBER 30, 2026

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Park’s Parcel 57 officially sold Continued from Page 29 “After 5½ years of hard work, patience, and perseverance, we are thrilled to announce that we have officially taken ownership of the property at Heron Park in Berlin,” the Gillises said. “The Exchange at Heron Park in Historic Berlin — an exciting new development that we envision becoming a vibrant destination for professional offices, businesses, retail, and potentially a restaurant, bringing new opportunities and energy to our wonderful community.” A statement quoted the Gillises as saying they will be working toward a completion date in Fall 2027 for the first phase. An agreement with the town states construction on the first phase must begin by April 2027 and completed by the end of October 2028. The rest of Heron Park still includes a lagoon with a trail on the north edge of the property. In the future, the remainder of the park will be home to a new skate park, new public works facility and a new access road. The settlement marks the culmination of a long effort to return a portion of Berlin's former Tyson Foods poultry processing property to productive use. Discussions with the Gillises date to 2021, when the town began exploring redevelopment opportunities at Heron Park. The developers initially proposed a broader commercial redevelopment involving multiple parcels,

but negotiations ended in August 2023 when the Town Council voted 3-2 against continuing discussions. The town revisited the possibility in July 2024, when the council agreed to resume negotiations with the Gillises, focusing on Parcel 57 and the remaining buildings from the former poultry processing operation. In April 2025, the council voted 3-1 to approve a $1.2 million sale agreement with Coastal Ventures Properties. The agreement included 15 sewer equivalent dwelling units and required construction of at least one office or retail building within two years of settlement. Despite the agreement, the sale remained unfinished for another 18 months as the town and developers worked through disputes over property boundaries, subdivision plans and access-road arrangements. In July, the Berlin Planning Commission approved plans for the initial redevelopment phase, including proposed medical offices and retail uses. Tyndall said the sale provides resident with a clear direction for the property. “For years, residents have asked what’s next for the former chicken plant site. With Palmer and Sandy Gillis on board, we finally have a clear answer. The Town looks forward to working alongside them to see the former chicken plant site become a place our community can be proud of,” said Tyndall.

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OCTOBER 30, 2026

OC Winterfest of Lights to open next month (Oct. 30, 2026) Ocean City’s Winterfest of Lights will return to Northside Park Nov. 19 through Jan. 2, 2027, featuring new illuminated displays, live entertainment, carriage rides and other holiday attractions. The annual holiday event will be open nightly from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., with general admission costing $6 plus fees for guests ages 12 and older. Children 11 and younger will be admitted free. A free opening ceremony is scheduled for 5 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 19, featuring a performance by the OC Stars, remarks from the mayor and the ceremonial lighting of the displays by opening-night sponsor Delmarva Power. This year’s event will feature larger displays, including a 50-foot musical Christmas tree, a new snowflake arch, a walk-through beach ball and an illuminated cupcake display. Other attractions

will include fire pits, hot chocolate, a holiday gift shop and a new Santa photo area. Fire & Ice Nights will be held Fridays and Saturdays, excluding Christmas Day, with live entertainment and musical performances in the festival tent. Professional ice carvers from the Ice Lab will demonstrate their craft Dec. 4, 11, 18 and 26 in the Fire & Ice Village, which will also feature ice displays and bonfires. Premium carriage rides will be offered Nov. 30 and Dec. 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21 and 22. The rides will accommodate groups of two, six or 12 people and include food options and a Santa photo gift. Advance reservations are required. Other activities will include Pet Wednesdays, when visitors may bring their pets, and three children’s rides, including two provided by Trimper’s Amusements and the town’s trackless

train. The holiday schedule will also include a Coca-Cola scavenger hunt on select dates, with prizes available for redemption at the ticket booth.

Art League of OC to host its First Friday event on Nov. 6 (Oct. 30, 2026) The Art League of Ocean City invites the public to its popular monthly “First Friday” art opening and party on Nov. 6, from 5–7 p.m. at the Ocean City Center for the Arts, 502 94th St., bayside. This free event gives art lovers, locals, and visitors a chance to explore exciting new exhibitions and meet artists.

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November’s First Friday features a variety of exhibitions. The Sisson Galleria will feature Everyday Heroes, a group exhibition showcasing work by local and regional artists celebrating the everyday people who make an extraordinary difference in our communities. The exhibit will also feature a book signing with author Jackie Kurtz, who will be signing copies of her book, Everyday Heroes. The Thaler Gallery will feature painter Sandy Strachan Buchanan, known for carefully composed, realistic oil paintings. Studio E Gallery will feature painter Rhonda Ford, whose landscape paintings capture the interplay of light and shadow in nature. Inspired by scenes she encounters while driving, she seeks out moments of light that bring a landscape to life. The Schwab Spotlight Gallery will feature Color & Shape: Jack Knight, showcasing an artist who has explored free-form, marble-like surfaces since 1972. Based in southern Delaware, he experiments with color, form, and shape. The Artisan Showcase in the Felber Gift Shop will feature Debbi Dean, a selftaught artist who experiments with metal, plaster, painted surfaces, and textured mixed media to create distinctive, one-of-a-kind works of art. The Burbage Staircase Gallery continues with work from the Art League’s permanent collection. Enjoy a Pop-up Exhibit by Maryland Coastal Bays featuring artwork created by participants during the recent Plein Air painting event at Assateague Island. The exhibit also includes paintings by artist Rebecca Morgan, who led the class, and offers a chance to appreciate the coastal environment through the eyes of local artists. Additional Highlights of November’s First Friday include meeting Art League instructors Cindy Strouse and Carol Rydel to learn about their creative work and discover opportunities to explore your artistic talents through classes and workshops. In the Art League’s satellite galleries for the month of November features, Kathy Denk exhibits at the Coffee Beanery (94th Street and Coastal Highway), and Mason D’Aleo presents artwork in the lobby of the Princess Royale (9100 Coastal Highway). Exhibits at the Arts Center and satellite galleries run through November 28.

OC Today-Dispatch

OCTOBER 30, 2026

PAGE 33

Cold Weather Shelter trainings (Oct. 30, 2026) The cold weather season is fast approaching, and the Ocean City Cold Weather Shelter needs your help to keep its doors open for all those in need. If you would like to learn about the shelter or help, please attend one of the training sessions: Wednesday, Nov. 18 at 6 p.m., Friday, Nov. 20 at 1 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 22 at 12:30 p.m. All trainings will be held at the Shelter which is the retreat center at the far end of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 10301 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, MD

21842. The Cold Weather Shelter is open December through March when wind chill temps dip below an average of 25 degrees overnight. If your schedule allows for even once or twice a month to help with overnights or registration, it would be an incredible blessing, not only to our other volunteers, but to those who need our shelter the most. Consider coming to one of our trainings to learn more. Contact Jason Long at ocmdcoldweathershelter@gmail.com or 443.513.1563 to register today.

Foundation plans Veterans Day (Oct. 29, 2026) The Worcester County Veterans Memorial Foundation will host its annual Veterans Day ceremony on Wednesday, November 11, at 11 a.m. at the Worcester County Veterans Memorial in Ocean Pines. The ceremony will include patriotic music and a salute to all branches of our Armed Forces. This year’s Keynote Speaker is Michelle Winemiller, Technical Sergeant, United States Air Force. Winemiller honorably served from 1992-2004 and currently serves as a Director on the Board for the Worcester County Veterans Memorial Foundation. “On Veterans Day, we proudly honor the brave men and women who have

worn the uniform of our great nation,” said Rick Farr, President of the Worcester County Veterans Memorial Foundation. “Their courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to freedom remind us that liberty is never free. Today, and every day, we stand united in gratitude for their service, their patriotism, and their dedication to protecting the freedoms we cherish. Looking forward to seeing everyone on November 11th.” Some seating will be provided, but attendees are recommended to bring a chair. In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will move to the Ocean Pines Community Center. For more information, visit www.WoCoVets.org.

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OCTOBER 30, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

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OCTOBER 30, 2026

Federal grant will provide opportunities for students (Oct. 30, 2026) Wor-Wic Community College is one of nine Maryland educational institutions selected for the new Maryland Rural Pathways to Prosperity Network (MD Pathways). The Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) will administer the $2.38 million federal grant funding the initiative focused on increasing career prospects for rural students. “For students and families on the Lower Eastern Shore, opportunity should not require leaving the community they call home,” said Deborah Casey, Ph.D., president of Wor-Wic. “MD Pathways will strengthen the connection between education and employment by bringing colleges, universities, state partners and regional employers together around a shared purpose. Through paid work-based learning, industry-recognized credentials and seamless degree pathways, students will be able to prepare for family-sustaining careers in healthcare, cybersecurity, high-tech manufacturing, education and other fields essential to our region’s future.” The initiative aims to ensure that students graduate with industry-recognized credentials, paid workplace experience and clear degree paths to fast-growing local careers. This new funding brings targeted job training directly to commu-

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nity campuses, allowing local students to build in-demand skills while remaining in their hometowns, offering rural students a practical path to financial security and a brighter economic future. Opportunities supported by the grant include: • Clearer, faster paths from shortterm certificates and associate degrees directly into four-year bachelor’s degree programs. • Access to at least 500 new paid internships, registered apprenticeships and work-based learning opportunities where students earn industry wages while completing their studies. • Expanded access to short-term, career-focused training programs supported by federal Workforce Pell grants, allowing workers to quickly upgrade their skills without debt. • Training in artificial intelligence literacy and digital tools. Over the next four years, the project will serve more than 1,000 rural students, partner with at least 50 regional businesses and launch 25 new workforce credential pathways. To guarantee accountability for Maryland taxpayers, the Maryland Longitudinal Data System Center will independently track job placement rates and graduate wage increases.

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OCTOBER 30, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

Two county school board seats up for grabs By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Oct. 29, 2026) With the Worcester County Board of Education’s District 1 and District 6 positions contested, voters in Pocomoke and Bishopville may cast their ballots next week for their preferred school system representative. As voters head to the polls on Nov. 3, some will be able to choose who they want to serve on the county’s board of education. Contested races are taking place in District 1, which covers much of southern Worcester and is anchored by Pocomoke City, and District 6, which covers Bishopville, northern Berlin, and portions of Ocean Pines. District 6, Background Jackie Cutlip, the board’s current District 6 seat holder, is looking to re-

tain her position against challenger Kathy Cater. Cutlip was appointed as the board’s District 6 representative after Katie Addis's early resignation late last year. District 6 includes the northern part of the county including Bishopville and much of the North Gate of Ocean Pines area. Cutlip studied criminal justice and early education at community college before opening Bayside Boat Rentals in Ocean City with her husband. The couple has owned and operated the business for over 25 years. “I'm proud of our years of hard work, commitment, and perseverance that have led us to a business that has stood the test of time in a seasonal tourism town, serving an estimated 30,000-plus customers each summer and becoming a local favorite along the way,” Cutlip said.

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Cutlip has three daughters, one in sixth grade and another in 11th grade enrolled in Worcester County Public Schools, which she believes sets her apart from her competitor. Cutlip said that she has spent 15 years involved in WCPS as a volunteer, parent, advocate, and PTA president. “My face has been a familiar and consistent positive presence in our schools since day one,” she said. Former WCPS employee Kathy Cater is challenging Cutlip for the board of education’s District 6 position. Cater moved to Worcester County more than 35 years ago and currently lives in Bishopville. She and her husband raised their two sons in the area. Cater said she began her threedecade-long career in public education as a classroom teacher. She spent the final 16 years as an assistant principal at Stephen Decatur High School and retired in 2021. Cater served as assistant principal at Parkside High School, Mardela Middle School, and Mardela High School, and as a conflict resolution/human relations liaison at James M. Bennett High School. Cater maintains that her community connections set her apart. Her oldest son, Brandon Cater, is the current theater teacher at SDHS, and her granddaughter attends Buckingham Elementary School.

Additionally, while raising her sons through the school system, Cater said she served on Stephen Decatur Middle School’s School Improvement Advisory Committee and has coached Berlin Little League and local soccer programs. District 6, Important Issues On the school system’s pressing issues, Cutlip said she is always willing to ask tough questions in public to promote transparency and accountability. “I believe we can be proud of our school system while still acknowledging where improvements are needed,” she said. “Recognizing our challenges does not diminish our successes. It gives us an opportunity to become even better.” Cutlip said she believes a challenge WCPS faces is rebuilding public trust, alluding to an embezzlement scheme discovered in 2025. Former assistant superintendent Denise “Dee” Shorts pleaded guilty last month to one count of felony theft of over $100,000. Shorts used Title I funds, money set aside for low-income students, to buy personal items like clothes, cosmetics, and furnishings for a vacation home, and altered the invoices to make it appear the dollars were spent as intended. As part of Cutlip’s plan to regain the community’s confidence, she said communication must be open and

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Candidates vie for board of ed proactive, and families and staff should be informed before worries escalate. One of Cater’s concerns is the decline of WCPS’ competitive salary scale and the recruitment and retention of high-quality teachers and staff. She said if elected, she intends to work collaboratively with the local government to ensure the school system’s presented budgets are fully funded “in order to maintain the level of achievement that we have been known for statewide.” “Not only to offer competitive salaries, but to do so without sacrificing the programs that are necessary to support the levels of success we have been able to achieve,” Cater added. “That will not continue to happen without fully funding our school system.” Cater also said she will prioritize students' education and safety, adding that young learners should be at the center of every board of education decision. “We need to understand the diverse needs of our student population and provide them with what is necessary to achieve their desired goals,” Cater said. District 6, Priorities Safety is a top priority for Cutlip. She said she intends to push for stricter disciplinary procedures if elected to the board. “I am a huge supporter of firmer, more consistent discipline at every level,” she said. “We need more meaningful consequences that reflect real-world accountability … Every child deserves support, but no child's behavior should prevent others from learning.” Cutlip added safety ensures students may learn in a disruption-free environment. She also wants to maintain WCPS’ reputation as a topperforming school district and include teachers and staff in major decisions. “Worcester County Public Schools doesn't consistently rank among the top school systems in Maryland for no reason,” she said. “...We truly have an amazing school system with so much for all of us to be proud of, but that doesn't mean there isn't room for improvement.” Cater’s agenda champions small class sizes and recruiting and retaining high-quality educators and support staff, which she said are vital to student success. She also said she advocates for physically and emotionally safe schools to keep student learning the focus every day. Cater also hopes to prioritize compliance with educational requirements and listen to families and residents when they bring concerns to the board. Additionally, she plans to keep looking for ways to advance WCPS's success. “Our school system is the best in

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the State of Maryland, and I want to work to make sure it stays that way,” Cater said. “It is what draws people from all over to want to reside in our community. That doesn’t mean that we can’t always be looking for ways to make improvements.” District 1, Background Caroline Bloxom would bring a 40-year career in education to the board. Of that time, 30 years were spent with the local system. Bloxom taught middle and high school mathematics for 14 years. She later became a curriculum planner at Pocomoke Middle School, then served as the WCPS PreK-12 mathematics coordinator and professional development coordinator, and returned to Pocomoke Middle School as principal, a role she held for 12 years. In 2012, Bloxom became principal of Worcester Technical High School and the district’s Career and Technology Education Coordinator. She retired in 2018. “I understand the challenges teachers face because I have been a teacher,” Bloxom said. “I understand the responsibilities of school administrators because I have led schools. I understand the importance of curriculum, instructional quality, staff development, and career preparation See EDUCATORS Page 40

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Continued from Page 39 because I have worked directly in each of those areas.” Bloxom continues to be involved with the community, particularly with the Delmarva Discovery Museum and the Worcester County Library Foundation. District 1’s other contestant, Glen Ennis, is a retired Maryland teacher and administrator with 30 years of experience, mostly in Somerset County. Ennis grew up in Pocomoke and graduated from Pocomoke High School. District 1 includes all of Pocomoke, Girdletree and runs north to part of Snow Hill. Ennis worked as a classroom

teacher, vice principal, and principal of a career and technical center. He was named Somerset’s Teacher of the Year in 2002. Ennis also served on the State of Maryland task force to update middle school curriculum. Ennis also is a bus driver for students throughout the county. His work as a driver includes everyday pickup, field trips, nighttime athletic events, and summer school. “I’m really familiar with the county because when everyone gets on the bus, they like to talk,” he said. District 1, Important Issues Bloxom said effective communication is necessary for a functioning school system. If elected, she said she

OCTOBER 30, 2026

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District 1 board race contested will maintain an open dialogue with her constituents, explain policies, and answer questions. Bloxom noted that securing topnotch teachers and support staff remains a critical issue for WCPS. She said the board must prioritize these educators’ concerns and provide them with the tools and resources they need. The candidate said she would push for a continual review of instructional programs to guarantee students are prepared for not only graduation, but life beyond school. Bloxom said she would also be a responsible steward of taxpayer dollars, if selected to the board. “Educational decisions should be made with careful consideration of student needs, available resources, and long-term fiscal responsibility,” she said. As for Ennis, he believes the board should recruit and retain highachieving teachers and staff through competitive salaries and benefits. Ennis said WCPS has fallen behind in hiring and retaining qualified educators because nearby counties, even those with lower test scores like Somerset County, offer more attractive compensation packages. Ennis also said the board of education should take a closer look at the budget and cut wasteful spending. He noted that during the Covid-19 pandemic, the federal government of-

fered more grants than in the past, and now that those dollars are used up, the school system has absorbed the costs of programs implemented during that time. Some of those programs may no longer be needed. District 1, Priorities Additional priorities for Bloxom include physical and mental safety for students and staff, stronger partnerships between the school system and its stakeholders, responsible budgeting, and student achievement. Bloxom said she intends to prioritize education “that builds strong academic skills, encourages critical thinking, and prepares students for life after graduation.” “I have always believed that one of education's greatest responsibilities is teaching children how to think, not what to think,” she added. Ennis said he would like to encourage more students towards the trades instead of college and push for higher enrollment at Worcester Technical High School. He said that students are coming out of college with debt and a job unrelated to their major. He also maintained that trades are facing a shortage. “I think what we’ve come to now is we are in a desperate shortage of trades people and we have a lot of kids in college debt not doing what they got a degree in,” Ennis said.

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OC Today-Dispatch

OCTOBER 30, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

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OC Today-Dispatch

OCTOBER 30, 2026

James: ‘The timing’s right’ for mayor change By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Oct. 30, 2026) The time for change is now. It’s the message mayoral challenger Matt James has for constituents as they go to the polls next week to choose between him and 20year incumbent Rick Meehan. “I think the timing's right,” he told the OC Today-Dispatch in an interview last week. “I think we have a really strong City Council right now, and I think some change will be good, both on the City Council and in the mayor's office.” James, executive vice president and managing partner at James Hospitality, is no stranger to municipal politics. In 2014, he was the youngest-ever candidate in Ocean City’s history to be elected to the City Council. And for the last six years, he has served as council president, a role that gives him the authority to preside over and set the agenda for council meetings. This spring, however, James, 33, announced that he would not seek reelection when his term ends in November, but instead would be seeking the mayoral seat, which has been held by Meehan for the last two decades. If elected, he said he will bring new perspectives and ideas when addressing Ocean City’s biggest issues, including offshore wind, public perception of crime, and tourism. “New blood and new insights will benefit Ocean City,” he said. James said it is no question that offshore wind remains the highest-profile local issue. While a planned project off Ocean City’s coast remains in limbo – the result of the Trump administration’s opposition to offshore wind and ongoing legal challenges brought forward by the Town of Ocean City – he vowed to continue the city’s opposition campaign both at the state and federal level. “I have the relationships, I have the contacts, and I think I will continue to represent the town very

well,” he said. “I think that issue is a concern that everybody shares.” James also shared constituents’ concerns about the perception of crime in downtown Ocean City, particularly in June. “Our Boardwalk is one of the reasons people visit Ocean City,” he said. “If we work on our image and we promote that we have a safe and a clean and a fun Boardwalk and beach to visit, I think that helps with our image.” James said he proposes to restore mayor-led media tours in feeder markets that supply visitors to Ocean City. As the town’s chief representative, he said the mayor should be the face of Ocean City. “It goes back to our safe, clean, fun town. Basically, if we get back to the basics and focus on being the best beach town we can be, I think that's what our customers want. That's what our visitors want. That's what our residents want.” James said those issues go hand in hand with his ideas for tourism. He said he would support a full reorganization of the special events calendar, with big, family-friendly events attracting respectful guests in early June. “A reorganization of special events in Ocean City could help resolve some of the quality-of-life issues that we experience associated with these events,” he said. When asked about a proposed sports complex Ocean City wants to build in the county, James said he supported the concept but at the right location. “There's a lot of noise right now that's being spread around that I don't support a sports complex,” he said. “I'd like to point out I do support the concept of a sports complex, but we need— given the significant investment – we really need to nail down the location. And if we don't have buyin from the community that it affects then it will never be successful.” That buy-in, he added, requires updating studies, which he said the city is in the process of doing. It also requires state support.

“You know, we need well over $100 million from the state of Maryland to execute the development of this project,” he said, “and we won't be successful unless we have buy-in from the community and the state representatives that represent our area and the area that we'd like to put the complex.” Another talking point amongst community members is the Boardwalk tram service, which ended a 60-year run after an investigation into a 2024 collision that killed a two-year-old boy revealed a series of motor vehicle violations. While he has publicly criticized his opponent for pledging to restore the Boardwalk trams weeks ahead of an election, James said he would support its revival if all safety requirements are met and issues are addressed. “You know, Rick brought this up a month ago,” he said, “and the council has met multiple times, and he still hasn't told the council what his plan is.” Short-term rentals have also generated significant public interest under James’ most recent term, most notably in 2025, when legislation enacting a vacation rental ban in two residential zoning districts was voted down in a special election. When asked last week if the issue was settled, James said he would not support any effort to renew those discussions. “A group of individuals did not support the direction that the town was going in,” he said. “They followed the petition process, successfully petitioned the ordinance, which then went to referendum, and the voters made the ultimate decision. And I respect the will of the voters.” On the public safety front, James touted his volunteer service with the fire department, where he served as a firefighter, EMT, rescue swimmer and lieutenant, and the lessons it taught him about community needs. He also highlighted ongoing discussions on recruitment and retention, and the bonuses he had

Matt James

supported as council president to attract and keep public safety personnel. “I'd say retention is equally, if not more, important than the recruiting process,” he said. “If we have good employees, we certainly want to take care of them and keep them employed by the Town of Ocean City.” Looking ahead, James said his 12 years on the City Council has provided him the knowledge – and state and federal connections – needed to represent the city if elected to the mayoral seat. He argued that his opponent’s connections are no longer working to Ocean City’s advantage. “The entire City Council just decided to seek representation from a different lobbying firm,” he said. “We chose not to renew our relationship with our previous lobbyist because we thought we needed better representation in Annapolis. I don't think we would have done that if we were satisfied with the representation that we have had in the past.” “My wife and I have two small children,” he summarized. “We live in Ocean City, we're raising children in Ocean City, and I've got skin in the game, for the future of Ocean City to be the best that it can be.”

OC council candidates offer views on issues By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Oct. 30, 2026) Ocean City’s electorate will head to the polls next week to choose amongst the four candidates vying for three open council seats. On Tuesday, Nov. 3, the Town of Ocean City will hold its municipal election, in which the mayoral seat and three council seats will be up for grabs. This year, four council candidates are seeking the electorate’s vote. Carol Proctor, a one-term council member, is the only incumbent to file this year, with Council Secretary Will Savage opting not to run for re-election and Council President Matt James vacating his seat to run for mayor. Elected in 2022, Proctor joined the

council with a background in mortgage banking and real estate. She currently serves as an associate broker for Berkshire Hathaway Home Services PenFed Realty. As a council member, she serves on the sports complex task force, the transportation committee, the risk retention committee, and the recreation and parks committee. This year, Proctor will be joined on the ballot by three political newcomers – William “Billy” Apostolou, Wayne Johnson and Larry Noccolino. Apostolou, who moved to Ocean City full-time in 2020, works as a business development director for a local mortgage loan company and serves on the board of directors for the Greater

Ocean City Chamber of Commerce. He is also president of the OC Chamber Foundation and president of the A.M. Foundation, which supports local initiatives and awards annual scholarships to deserving seniors at Stephen Decatur High School. Johnson, who retired from retail management in Baltimore County before moving to Ocean City full-time in 2023, says he is running to be an advocate for the average citizen. He argued that current city officials “bent over backwards” for business owners and developers, but failed to address the concerns of year-round residents. Born in Washington, D.C., and raised in Prince George’s County, Noccolino’s ties to the Town of Ocean City

run deep. For the last 14 years, he has served as the director for the Ocean City convention center. Last month, within days of his retirement, he submitted his application for the City Council race. Ahead of next week’s election, the OC Today-Dispatch asked each candidate to answer a series of questions. The following highlights the responses of all four participants. Q. What in your background and life experiences distinguishes you as a suitable candidate for the Ocean City Council? Apostolou: My career has been built around business development, relationship building, and bringing people together to accomplish shared goals. See FOUR Page 45

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OC Today-Dispatch

Meehan remains passionate about post, OC By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Oct. 30, 2026) Experience and relationships matter. After 20 years in office, it’s the message incumbent Rick Meehan is sharing as he seeks another term in the mayor’s seat this fall. “You know, the mayor is more than just a title,” he told the OC Today-Dispatch in an interview last week. “It’s about showing up, and it’s about being committed and dedicated to the community. And that means showing up not just in Annapolis, not just at council meetings, not just at all the commission and committee meetings I serve on, but showing up for the community as well.” For the last four-plus decades, Meehan has taken an active role in municipal politics, serving on the Ocean City Council from 1985 to 2006 before taking over the office of mayor in June of that year. Since that time, Meehan, a local real estate agent, has secured 10 re-elections, making him the longest serving mayor in Ocean City’s history. This spring, both Meehan and his challenger, sitting Council President Matt James, announced they would seek the mayoral seat in the Nov. 3 municipal election. Acknowledging speculation that he would not seek another term, Meehan announced his candidacy earlier than he normally would. “I never told anybody I wasn't going to run,” he told the newspaper last week. “When people have asked me, you know, ‘Do you plan to run?’ or whatever, my response has always been, ‘Nothing's forever.’ But forever isn't right now.” If re-elected, Meehan said he would continue to use his existing relationships with state and federal officials to address Ocean City’s top priorities – including offshore wind, unsanctioned takeover events, a proposed sports complex and the revival of the Boardwalk tram service. “We live in the best place that I could ever think to live,” he said. “And I'm committed to doing everything I can to keep it that way.” Meehan said his ties to the state

capital began in his earlier years on the City Council, when he would travel to Annapolis with then-mayor Fish Powell to get a better understanding of how the chambers worked and how legislation was adopted. Coupled with his involvement in state organizations such as the Maryland Municipal League and the Maryland Mayors Association, he said he has made valuable connections that have benefited Ocean City. In his last 40-plus years in municipal government, Meehan said he has worked with the state legislature to secure beach replenishment projects, create a special event zone during car events and increase the room tax rate. “You know, those things don't happen unless you have those types of relationships,” he said. Looking ahead, Meehan said he hopes to work with state legislators to adopt laws targeting social media-driven teen takeover events that have occurred in Ocean City and around the state the last two years. That initiative, he said, includes increased penalties for those who organize such events and requiring restitution if property damage occurs, among other things. “This affects the entire state,” he said, “not just Ocean City.” However, one city-specific issue Meehan does hope to address if reelected is the Boardwalk tram service, which ended last year after an investigation into a 2024 fatality revealed a series of motor vehicle violations. He said he has received more emails from residents and visitors asking to bring back the trams than any other topic. While acknowledging the tragedy that halted the tram service, Meehan said now was the time to implement better transportation on the Boardwalk. He said he would support the introduction of narrower, electric vehicles on the Boardwalk, as well as working with the state to determine where the Boardwalk stands, legally, as a state roadway. “I think it's one of those times where you get the can-do attitude back, instead of why we can't,” he said.

Meehan also said he would continue to push the city’s opposition to offshore wind. With the Trump administration actively blocking offshore wind energy development, he said the city is “in a better position now than we’ve ever been.” “But it is not over,” he added. “And until those leases are rescinded, bought out, whatever, that is always going to hover over our shoulder.” On the tourism front, Meehan said poor weather and changing vacation trends have resulted in a soft summer for many businesses. And while he said Ocean City’s value-added events and various accommodations still make the resort a go-to destination, he said the city could do a better job at promoting what it had. “We've got a beach and a Boardwalk and hotels, accommodations, restaurants that others don't have,” he said, “and we need to take advantage of it.” He said those attractions are also a reason why a proposed sports complex would work well in northern Worcester County. However, he said the city needed community buy-in, updated studies and a better way of addressing concerns before the project could become a reality. “I mean, it's got to be the right property. It's got to be that the studies have to come back right. It's got to justify the expense,” he said. “But I think it will.” In the meantime, Meehan said the city could use this time to take advantage of existing sports facilities throughout Worcester County. Coordinating with county officials to bring new tournaments to the area could show how successful a sports complex could be. “As we move forward with the sports complex, it will help us – I think – build consensus that this is great tourism, and that opportunity exists and we need to take advantage of it,” he said. This year’s mayoral race will be the second highly contested election in just as many years. In 2024, both Meehan and now-councilman Peter Buas led strong campaigns in the lead up to Election Day. However, support for Buas was particularly strong

Rick Meehan

amongst council members, most of whom reportedly frustrated over the mayor’s handling of city affairs. When asked about that division last week, Meehan summarized the issue as “individual political ambitions.” When asked if those relationships had improved, he said the mayor is not always on “great footing” with council members. “My goal is to always work with the council,” he said. “You know, even in the last election, when there were some members of the council that didn't support me when the election was over, I let them know right away that isn't something I'm going to take into consideration moving forward. You know, we're a team, let's move forward.” During his interview with the OC Today-Dispatch last week, Meehan shared his support for police and fire personnel, his opposition to bringing back short-term rental restrictions, and his desire to see the fourth phase of a convention center expansion come to fruition. He also shared his willingness to adapt. “If you look back over even the last few years, all the things that have happened that we've had to adjust to or make changes to, you know, I've continued to move forward,” he said. “And I think that's really what change is about. I think the word itself is a hollow cliché, and sometimes it's said because you don't have anything else to say.”

Four council candidates seek 3 open seats Continued from Page 44 I've spent more than 15 years working with businesses and organizations, learning the importance of listening, asking difficult questions, and finding practical solutions. My involvement in Ocean City goes well beyond my professional career. Serving on the Board of Directors of the Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce, as President of the Chamber Foundation, and as President of the A.M. Foundation has given me the opportunity to work alongside residents, business owners, community leaders, and volunteers. Through the A.M. Foundation, we've helped provide $10,000 in scholarships to local gradu-

ating seniors in 2026. That experience reinforced something I strongly believe: when people work together, we can make a meaningful difference in our community. I don't believe serving on the Council requires having all the answers. It requires being willing to ask the right questions, listen carefully, be transparent, and make decisions with the community's best interests in mind. Johnson: In my work history, I was a mid to upper manager in Retail. I was always there to get the results for the company but also trying to support the subordinates and being the middle ground for them while achieving the results desired. I have been a member of

Social Clubs including the Moose Lodge and The Ravens Roosts where I've been an officer in Baltimore and currently in Ocean City. At all my job experiences I was responsible for crunching the numbers and staying within budgets so working with the City and its spending would align with my experience. And finally I am not associated with any businesses in Ocean City and have no agenda. Noccolino: My yard and street signs pretty much sum it up: Experience and Commitment! Working for the Town as Director of the Roland E. Powell Convention Center since May of 2012, was my first foray into municipal government where I learned how much differ-

ent it is from the private sector. Budgeting processes, both for the state and the town, gave me the insight needed to continue my career in what, hopefully, will enhance my relationship with the mayor/council members and assist that body in determining sound fiscal decisions. I have been in the hospitality business including convention centers, hotels, restaurants and country clubs for over forty years. Being a council member, if elected, will be my only job. Proctor: Throughout my time in public service, I have established a clear track record as a true "Voice for the People." Effective municipal leadership reSee PROCTOR Page 46

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OCTOBER 30, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

Billy Apostolou

Wayne Johnson

Larry Noccolino

Carol Proctor

Proctor sole incumbent seeking re-election Continued from Page 45 quires listening to residents and business owners while bringing real-world executive experience to city governance. My executive leadership and real estate background uniquely qualify me for Council. In my corporate career, I managed $250 million per month in business volume. Operating daily off P&L statements, forecasting, and directing large budgets gives me the financial discipline required to oversee Ocean City’s $190+ million annual budget responsibly. Additionally, my real estate expertise across commercial development, land use, and market trends ensures sound decisions on zoning, property taxes, and town planning. Public safety remains my top priority. Protecting residents, businesses, and millions of seasonal visitors requires fully supporting our police, fire, EMS, and beach patrol. Finally, I consistently back strategic public investments. From multi-phase upgrades at 3rd Street Park to key enhancements at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center, Eagle’s Landing Golf Course, and Public Works, I remain committed to modernizing our town’s essential infrastructure. Q. What do you see as the biggest issues facing Ocean City, and how do you plan to address them? Apostolou: I believe one of the biggest challenges facing Ocean City is communication and trust between Town government and the people it serves. Residents, property owners, and business owners should understand what decisions are being considered and have meaningful opportunities to provide input before those decisions are made. I've always believed that anything mentionable is manageable. We won't agree on every issue, but we can do a much better job of discussing challenges openly, asking difficult questions, and listening to one another. We also need to focus on protecting property rights, supporting our local businesses, maintaining public safety, and ensuring Ocean City remains an affordable and attractive destination for families. As a Council member, I would advocate for greater transparency, better access to information, and more consistent public engagement. I would also carefully examine Town spending and priorities,

recognizing that government, just like the households and businesses it serves, must make responsible financial decisions. My goal is to help build a Town government that communicates clearly, listens consistently, and earns the community's trust through its actions. Johnson: The biggest issue as I see it is the decline in tourism and revenue for the City. I feel that all the stakeholders – businesses and the city should have a meeting to what is going wrong with tourism and how to fix it. Noccolino: I see three: Public Safety, a Sports Complex and Marketing. Public Safety includes the various departments i.e. OCPD, Fire and EMS, OCPW and the OC Beach Patrol. We need to give them the resources to keep our town safe and clean. We'll need to drive the top line revenues to do this which will require open lines of communication between the council/mayor with the Tourism Department and, above all, compromise. While at the CC, I had very frank conversations with the cheer groups, basketball, volleyball and more. My question to all: how many more courts/space do you need? Answer: how many more can you give us? We need a sports complex to enhance revenues but at the same time, get in front of questions that our neighbors have such as parking, taxes and roads. Proctor: The primary challenges facing Ocean City over the next four years boil down to maintaining fiscal responsibility amid regional economic cooling, optimizing municipal assets without saddling residents with debt, resolving staffing challenges, ensuring coastal resilience, and navigating a crucial transition in senior municipal leadership. With key department leaders, including our Director of Public Works, City Manager, and potentially our Fire Chief, nearing retirement over the coming term, experienced council leadership is essential. Steering Ocean City through these major executive transitions demands stability, clear administrative oversight, and a commitment to preserving operational excellence across all municipal services without losing momentum. Managing our $190+ million budget requires strict fiscal discipline as regional inflation impacts disposable family income across our drive markets. To address this, we must maintain conservative room tax

revenue projections and ensure that tourist-generated revenues pay for the city services visitors utilize, preserving the General Fund and protecting yearround residents from property tax increases. This fiscal oversight includes auditing our municipal event slate using objective metrics like room tax collection, lodging occupancy, and direct local business impact. Simultaneously, we must strengthen our shoulder-season tourism and expand sports tourism without taking on massive bond debt. Instead of funding costly, unproven multi-million dollar sports complexes, we can maximize existing infrastructure like the Roland E. Powell Convention Center and our municipal fields for year-round indoor and court-based tournaments. Operationally, addressing town staffing hurdles across municipal departments requires expanding internal career pathways modeled after the Ocean City Fire Department’s successful "grow our own" training philosophy. Finally, protecting our beach and dune infrastructure against severe coastal weather remains an urgent operational priority. Q. The Town of Ocean City is proposing to develop a sports complex in the area. As a council member, would you support the project? If so, where would you propose to build it? If you do not support the project, why not? Apostolou: I support reassessing the sports complex, but I believe we need to revisit how the project is being approached before making any major financial commitments. A project of this size deserves community buy-in, a transparent financial plan, and a clear understanding of the long-term costs and benefits to Ocean City residents and businesses. This hasn’t been happening. I would support reestablishing a sports complex committee or task force that includes residents, local business owners, hospitality representatives, and other stakeholders. That group should evaluate potential locations, funding opportunities, and what types of facilities would provide the greatest year-round benefit. I would also like to see serious consideration given to an ice rink and an aquatics center, both of which could serve local families while creating opportunities for tournaments, events, and

additional tourism outside our traditional summer season. I’m not prepared to endorse a specific location until the financial analysis, infrastructure requirements, and community input have been thoroughly evaluated. Johnson: I support adding a Sports Complex - but at what cost? How big? Is the State going to be able to still pay what was proposed given the States Economy? Are there any partners to take on this endeavor (Sponsorship etc.) Also not being able to build it in Ocean City is a major problem because Berlin doesn't want. So where? There are More questions than answers. The only thing that has been talked is acquiring land and price. Noccolino: As I stated above, I am in total support of a sports complex. However, we should be prudent with where it will be and the cost of the land. Dennis Dare wrote a letter to the Editor in this medium opining could the convention center be a location. Some people scoffed at that idea, not me, I'd like open that for discussion. I understand the logistics could be a nightmare, I'm very well versed in logistics being that I have been through many including a conversion from a convention center to a $127mm casino in Valley Forge and three phases of construction at the REPCC. None were easy but all were accomplished. Also, keep it as close to OC as possible so that we get the tax benefits. Communication! Proctor: It is important to recognize that sports tourism and a physical sports complex are two distinct issues. I strongly support sports tourism and will continue backing strategies that bring athletes and families to Ocean City. However, regarding a major sports complex, I remain open minded while maintaining strict fiscal discipline. As a Council member, I cannot support pledging the financial future and hard-earned tax dollars of Ocean City citizens to a major municipal bond based on outdated information. You simply cannot make a decision of this magnitude using study numbers from Fiscal Year 2022, an economic environment vastly different from today's reality. When original proposals were evaluated, estimates placed Ocean City’s contribution around $39 million. Given post 2022 construction inflation, supply chain adjustments, and higher interest

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OC Today-Dispatch

Candidates weigh in on Ocean City tourism rates, realistic projections today could easily approach $80 million. Asking our citizens to shoulder a bond obligation of that size, without current, verified numbers, would be fiscally irresponsible. Before Ocean City makes any final commitment, we must update our construction estimates, pro forma, and market studies. Beyond financial projections, location and jurisdictional mechanics present significant challenges. Ocean City completely lacks buildable acreage within town limits for a massive outdoor venue. We systematically evaluated 15 to 20 potential sites, but each presented critical obstacles that eliminated it from consideration. Furthermore, Worcester County has a heavy concentration of protected wetlands, severely restricting usable land. Furthermore, developing outside our municipal boundaries without a formal, binding financial partnership with Worcester County forces Ocean City taxpayers to carry all the financial risk while the county captures a significant portion of the economic benefit. Q. This summer has been particularly challenging on the tourism front, with local businesses reporting a slower season and Ocean City visitors sharing how expensive it is to vacation here. How would you, as a council member, respond to tourism concerns from the summer?

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Apostolou: Tourism is the backbone of Ocean City's economy, and when our local businesses struggle, the entire community feels it. We need to take these concerns seriously, but we also need to make decisions based on complete and accurate information. I would start by taking a closer look at how we measure tourism. Our current reporting doesn't always capture the full picture, particularly when smaller hotels and lodging properties are excluded from certain data. We need a more comprehensive understanding of visitor trends, spending, occupancy, and what is driving changes in tourism. Affordability is another important concern. While Town government doesn't control what private businesses charge, we can examine our own fees, taxes, regulations, and policies to ensure we're not unnecessarily adding to the cost of visiting or operating a business in Ocean City. As we grow our shoulder seasons and create more year-round tourism opportunities, businesses can generate revenue across more months instead of relying so heavily on the summer season. Over time, that growth could create greater flexibility for businesses to offer competitive pricing while remaining profitable. Most importantly, we need to listen to our visitors and business owners and respond with practical solu-

tions rather than assumptions. Johnson: Tourism is down at most East Coast Destinations some better and some worse. In talking to people I keep hearing 30% but that is unconfirmed. Weather did play an issue especially with the concerts. Everyone needs to take a look at what worked and didn't work this summer and pivot. Maybe a better Advertising campaign to draw people back? One thing for sure is we have to stop Nickel and Diming tourists to death! The cost of staying 7 days is very expensive so families are opting to come for 3 or 4 days instead. And don't forget Social Media because if someone has a bad experience down here they post about with no response. A Town meeting with the Business Stakeholders should be in order. Draw up a plan. Noccolino: I'm sorry for coming back to these words: COMMUNICATION and COMPROMISE! A meeting with the Tourism Department, the OCMD Hospitality Association, OC Chamber, town departments and other stakeholders should happen sooner than later. I don't believe we should continue to "kick the can down the road", it's time to step on that can NOW. Spring/Summer/Fall is starting to sell now; it's time to engage. Proctor: Everywhere you look, affordability is top of mind for families

and local businesses alike. Ocean City is not insulated from broader macroeconomic pressures, but we must be realistic about what municipal government can and cannot control. We live in a free market. As a Town Council, we lack the legal authority to dictate private pricing, whether for hotel rooms, short-term rentals, dining, amusements, gas, or utilities. Our local businesses, residents, and visitors face steep cost increases, and our town budget feels those exact same inflationary pressures when operating city services. What local government can do is maximize the value we deliver to guests and property owners. Ocean City provides outstanding free public amenities that directly offset vacation costs: 10 miles of pristine, free beaches, parks, extensive free street parking north of 10th Street, and free summer family entertainment, including Movies on the Beach, Sunset Park concerts, and weekly fireworks. Moving forward, our focus must remain on what is within our control: maximizing the return on our marketing budget. By strategically funding high-impact special events that fill rooms, support restaurants, and extend our shoulder seasons, we protect town revenues, support local businesses, maintain property tax rates, and keep our economy strong.

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OC Today-Dispatch

OCTOBER 30, 2026

PAGE 49

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PICKLES PUB 410-289-4891 8th Street & Philadelphia Ave. Fri., Oct. 30: Beats By DeoGee Sat., Oct. 31 & Sunday, Nov. 1: Beats by Rampage Mon., Nov. 2: Karaoke w/ Wood Tuesdays: Beats By Wax Thurs., Nov. 5: Beats By Connair PURPLE MOOSE SALOON 410-289-6953 Between Caroline & Talbot Streets On The Boards Fri., Oct. 30: Lithium & Candy Sat., Oct. 31: Black Hole Sons SEACRETS 410-524-4900 49th Street & Coastal Hwy. Fri., Oct. 30: The Way Outs, DJ Davie, DJ E-State, Gab Cinque & Bobby O Sat., Oct. 31: The Pop Rocks, Radio Stranger, DJ Connair, DJ E-State, Turning the Tide & DJ Bobby O Thurs., Nov. 5: Faith Noel

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 50

OCTOBER 30, 2026

LIKE US ON Licensed in MD, DE

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SHOULD I SELL MY HOUSE OR RENT IT OUT? CALL US AT 410-208-9200

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FURNISHED with Lynette Midtown Ocean City 2 BR, Cindy Crockett 3 BEDROOMS Bridges-Catha 1.5 BA condo within walking White Horse Park boasts and REALTOR®, GRI Licensed in MD

distance to shopping, dining, bus stop, Convention Center Cell: 443-497-3128 Smilin4shore@comcast.net & the Beach! This 2nd floor unit has hardwood floors & a new HVAC unit. Building features nice patio area, laundry facilities & assigned parking. Buyers should do their own due diligence to measure property & confirm all information to their satisfaction including but not limited to schools, sizes & tax information.

ideal waterfront location just minutes to Ocean City, with the resort area’s most affordable vacation and investment properties! This hard-to-find 3-bedroom double loft home comes fully furnished with new LVP flooring, vaulted ceilings, eat-in kitchen w/newer appliances, bath skylight, concrete patio, shed & brand-new HVAC. The location allows for privacy in the rear. You own the land and never pay ground rent! Numerous well-kept amenities & low HOA fee!

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Home offers a screened porch and is 443-235-5982 located on an extra-large cul-de-sac lot DebbieHileman07 overlooking the Golf Course! The @gmail.com "Nottingham" is a ranch-style home with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, and a 2-car garage. The expansive Great Room area has 9' ceilings and gas fireplace. An open dinette and large kitchen island offer an abundance of space for informal dining. The private Owner’s Suite includes a luxurious Venetian Owner's Bath with a Granite Vanity Top, Rectangular Sink Bowls, and a Tall Vanity with Drawer Base. Excellent location and community!

Located in the quaint town of Historic Berlin! The extra-large lot creates a beautiful rear yard with mature shade trees. Each level contains a 3-bedroom, 1 bath apartment, totally renovated within the past 10 years. Large storage barn. Driveway parks 8 vehicles. Walk to all of the amazing attractions that Berlin offers. Both units are fully leased through Feb. & Mar. of 2027!

Enjoy picturesque views of the golf course and the Saint Martins River from this 4 BR, 3 Bath townhome. Nicely landscaped grounds, spacious front porch, skylight-brightened foyer, cathedral ceiling in the delightful kitchen, featuring granite countertops & SS appliances. LVP flooring shows off the living areas, including a gas fireplace & access to the rear patio. A cozy screened porch connects to the 1st floor primary suite. You will find another bedroom, full bath, laundry room, and single car garage to complete the lower level. The upper level adds 2 additional bedrooms (one with private balcony), a 3rd full bath, and a small loft overlooking the living areas. Walk to the community center, swimming pool and tennis courts. There’s plenty of parking for guests in the adjacent parking lot.

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Seller is installing new kitchen cabinets, stainless steel appliances, LVP flooring and more! French Doors lead from the dining area to rear deck and yard. Guest bath includes ceramic tile floors, walls, and glass block. Primary bath features a tiled shower stall. Fresh paint, storage shed, vinyl siding and front entry deck. Located in the amenity-filled community of Ocean Pines.

Close to historic Berlin's shopping, dining & events! Ocean City & Assateague Island beaches are just a short drive away. The community's amenities include a Swimming Pool, Fitness Center & Playground. Multiple scenic ponds & wild fowl can be found throughout Decatur Farm. The Roof, the heat pump & the water heater have been replaced in the last few years. Lots of closets PLUS a garage for extra storage. Extra loft area on 2nd level. Laundry Room, 2 walk-in closets & overflow guest parking area.

This 3 BR/2 Bath property offers panoramic views of the golf course and shimmering ponds. The entire interior has been tastefully remodeled to include LVP flooring, tub showers, built-in shelving, stainless steel appliances & upgraded counters, while maintaining the original aesthetics such as wooden beamed ceilings & wood burning fireplace. At the heart of the lower-level family room is a custom, natural wood bar, a dedicated wet bar, and a mini refrigerator. Includes high-quality furnishings tailored to the space, so that you can move right in without changing a thing!

$349,900

$304,900

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OCTOBER 30, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

302-539-7156 • 1406 COASTAL HWY, FENWICK ISLAND, DE

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OC Today-Dispatch

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vanishing

OCEAN CITY

With Bunk Mann

OCTOBER 30, 2026

Things I Like... By Steve Green Hearing rainfall from bed A Ravens win at an in-person game Houses that go all out for Halloween When hindsight confirms a good decision A park with big trees Meaningful high school football games Woman’s voice with an acoustic guitar

The original Morbid Manor was the ultimate “haunted house” with live actors portraying ghosts, goblins and ghouls of all shapes and sizes. It even featured a plane crash on the third floor of the spooky building located on the Fishing Pier at Wicomico Street and the beach. The screams of frightened visitors could be heard on the Boardwalk and across the Inlet Parking Lot in the summer as crowds made their way through the dimly lit structure. Morbid Manor was destroyed in a wind-driven fire on Nov. 7, 1995, but many still recall it as being the “scariest haunted house” they had ever seen. To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com. image from a print by Paul McGehee

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OCTOBER 30, 2026

PAGE 53

OC Today-Dispatch

Berlin designated as official Christmas town by Hallmark By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Oct. 30, 2026) The Hallmark Channel has named Berlin an Official Christmas Town, because of its historic charm and character. As part of Hallmark’s 25th anniversary, the company searched the nation for the merriest downtown area to serve as the setting for the network’s next holiday film. While Hallmark did not select Berlin as a movie location — it gave that honor to Carlinville, Illinois — it did name the Town of Berlin an Official Christmas Town. Berlin Economic and Community Development Director Ivy Wells said Hallmark received about 1,500 submissions from towns and cities across the United States seeking recognition for their Christmastime cheer. Hallmark gave only 25 the official designation, and Berlin was one of them. The title means Hallmark will feature Berlin on its website, bringing national attention to the area, its businesses, and holiday traditions. Wells said Hallmark provided Berlin with an official title seal it can use for the next two years. The community development director said she also ordered signs reading “A Hallmark Official Christmas Town” to display downtown.

“It's a moniker for us just like America’s Coolest Small Town,” Wells said. Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall said he wants to explore more ways to market Berlin, noting that he still believes the town would be the perfect holiday movie filming location. He added that some other Hallmark submissions had promotional videos that Berlin lacked. “There are ways we can do better,” the mayor said. “...[Maybe by] working with somebody who can do some filming and do it seasonally for us and have it chunked out in smaller pieces that we can push out on social media.” While the new designation adds another layer to Berlin’s marketing, council member Shaneka Nichols said some residents worry the designation could increase tourist traffic and staff time expenses. Wells said that the Hallmark title involves no additional events and will not require additional staff time. “All it means is it is for us to market ourselves," Wells said. “Everyone always talks about how beautiful downtown Berlin is and how authentic and real it is, and this is another layer of pride [because] the outside world and country now know that we look like a Hallmark movie.”

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OCTOBER 30, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

SURF REPORT

The Adventures by Steve Green (The following is a reprint from 2015.) ne day my kids will realize how fortunate they are when it comes to Halloween. When I was growing up in Salisbury, my Halloween nights were similar to what a majority of people did when they were young. I got dressed up and walked around the neighborhood to about a dozen homes or so. Many homes welcomed kids and put up some mild decorations, but some were uninviting and made it known trick or treaters were not welcome by going dark. Halloween was fun when I was young, but I can’t say it was a huge part of my childhood. For my kids, Halloween is a huge deal. For Pam, Halloween is her favorite day of the year. She’s passionate about it. So much so she even dresses our house up for the occasion. When we moved to Berlin 12 years ago, we knew Halloween was a big deal. We were advised to purchase a lot of candy because we would get a lot of trick or treaters at our house. I remember buying about 500 pieces of candy that first year. It didn’t last 30 minutes. Rather than turn everyone away, we gave out nickels and dimes with apologies. Now, we buy about 2,000 pieces of candy to get through the two-hour trick or treating in Berlin. I believe we had more than 1,500 trick or treaters at our house this year. For my kids, it’s all they know, and they have come to take it for granted I think. They especially do not understand all the work their mother puts into Halloween every year. When we were leaving for school Halloween morning, I told the kids to take a look at the front of the house because it will be completely transformed by the time they get home.

Locallyy F Famous For 48 Years!

of Fatherhood That’s because Pam has missed her calling as a set designer. She has a tremendous imagination and works incredibly hard to dress up the house each year with creative, handmade decorations as well as some of the latest spooky creations she finds at stores. Each year our street picks a theme for Halloween. National Fright League was chosen this year with many homes decked out in our favorite professional football team’s colors and schemes. Additionally, we dressed up ourselves in our favorite team’s uniforms. Of course, everything was a little spooked out since its Halloween. There were a few Ravens homes, a Redskins home, an Eagles home and a Steelers home. We are Ravens fans so Pam draped our entire house in purple plastic with several Ravens logos handmade throughout. About a dozen skeletons were dressed as football players and cheerleaders. We had a little tailgate section with super spooky fans (skeletons) holding up their foam No. 1s. We had three tombstones for Bob Irsay, the former Colts owner who moved them out of Baltimore in the middle of the night; Ray Rice for obvious reasons; and Tom Brady because he’s just too successful. On another side of the yard, Pam had green outdoor carpet, painted as a football field, spread out with a head-less skeleton in a Patriots jersey getting mauled by a bunch of Ravens. In a bird cage was a zombie head in a Patriots helmet being guarded by several Ravens birds. That, of course, belonged to Tom Brady in our head. Add in a 12 feet tall zombie Ray Lewis and the decorations were about complete. I don’t know what Beckett’s reaction was when he got home from school because I was getting Carson. However, I assume it was ho

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hum because he just thinks these sorts of transformations happen without any work or trouble. He’s, of course, incredibly wrong. When I brought Carson home, he was amazed at the whole scene. He walked around and looked at everything in detail, especially the 12-foot tall zombie and all the skeletons tailgating. At trick or treating time, Carson, who seemed to really embrace dressing up as a blind referee with a walking stick and all, takes care of handing out the candy. He takes it seriously and this year really got a kick out of the candy being placed inside big Gatorade drink dispensers like you see on the sidelines. While Carson prefers to stick close to home, Beckett likes to wander. Even as a toddler he was always wanting to walk off and see what everyone else was doing. Now, at 10 years old, he likes to buddy up with some neighbors and walk the street. The last couple years he has enjoyed checking out the haunted house at Burbage Funeral Home. This year he even left Berlin with a friend and his parents to trick or treat around Ocean City and Mallard Island. He came home with a helmet full of full-sized candy bars, which apparently is the rule there. That was impressive. When he got home, he remarked how he couldn’t believe how many houses don’t participate in trick or treating. I told him that’s how it is in most areas, but that Berlin has spoiled him. Before sending him off to bed, I checked his pockets for candy and made him scrub off the zombie paint his mom had applied earlier. I then did the same thing for myself.

Sandbars create better surfing for resort wave riders By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer (Oct. 30, 2026) For those of you that read this column/article, and I hope there’s more than a few, apologies if there’s a degree of redundancy, but the subject matter is quite important and can’t be emphasized enough. It has everything to do with good surfing and safe conditions for the casual ocean goer. Sandbars are essential for quality surfable waves in beach break coastal areas. It’s part of the recipe, and a large part, to say the least. As of this writing, October 25, 2026, the northeast wind has finally calmed down. We’ve had a lot of northeast wind days this fall, which to my recollection has been unusual. But that is, more or less, the key to this column/article and the movement of more sand out into the ocean relatively near to the shoreline and our precious, sorely needed sandbars, for good surfable waves. The hope is that this migration of sand into the ocean will continue and that the sandbars, in the water, can become more of a mainstay. Prior to the start of the beach replenishment program, sandbars were abundant and reliable. When other elements of the recipe came together such as favorable swell, tide, and wind, frequent quality surfable waves were available. It would be nice to return to that scenario. Again, only time will tell. A surfer knows it has gotten a good start. A surfer hopes that the process will continue. - Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City

(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.)

OC’ss Local Ne ws Soource ! OC’ www..octodaydispatch www dispatch.com .

Years On!

OCTOBER 30, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

SUBMITTED PHOTOS/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

WORCESTER WEDNESDAY HELD On a recent Worcester Wednesday, students and faculty at Worcester Preparatory School came together to support local first responders through a red dress-down day fundraiser. Participants donated $5 to benefit the Berlin Fire Company and the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department. The fundraiser highlighted the vital role volunteer fire departments play in keeping local communities safe. The initiative was brought forward by WPS senior and Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department cadet Ronen Poddar and senior Kayley Adkins. The red dress-down day fundraiser raised more than $2,000 to benefit the two fire departments. Top, Poddar and Adkins are pictured with Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department President Joe Enste and Berlin Fire Company Chief Andy Gruden. Middle, kindergarten students meet Sparky the Fire Dog during a fire safety visit highlighting the important work of local first responders. Above, Mrs. Phillips’ fourth-grade class poses in front of a Berlin Fire Department fire engine during a school visit celebrating local first responders and promoting fire safety.

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OC Today-Dispatch

OCTOBER 30, 2026

Bronco Beach Bash returns to Ocean City (Oct. 30, 2026) Presented by Pittsville Ford, the Bronco Beach Bash returns to Ocean City for a weekend of beach cruises, sand course action, Show & Shine, vendors and rootin’ tootin’ Halloween good times. Presented by Pittsville Ford and produced by Live Wire Media & Events, the event brings Bronco owners, families, friends and off-road enthusiasts together for a celebration of the vehicles they love and the community that makes it all happen. Last-minute vehicle registration is available at broncobeachbash.com. Organizers encourage anyone still thinking about bringing their Bronco to get registered and make a weekend of it. Don’t own a Bronco? Come hang out anyway. Bronco Beach Bash is open to the public with a gate fee, giving local residents and visitors an opportunity to explore the vendor area at the Ocean City Convention Center, check out incredible Broncos and meet the people behind the builds. Vehicle registration is required for participating in beach cruises, sand course sessions and other registered driving activities; spectator admission does not include those experiences. Event hours of operation for the convention center are Friday and Saturday, Oct. 30 and 31, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. This year’s event celebrates 60

years of the Ford Bronco, bringing generations of owners together in a place where they can enjoy their vehicles and share their stories. From old-school favorites to the newest Broncos, the weekend is about appreciating what makes each one special. Some owners come for their first drive on the Ocean City beach. Others come to show off a project, find their next upgrade or reconnect with friends they met at a previous Bash. That mix is what gives the event its personality. A stock Bronco and a heavily modified build both have a place in this community. Yes, even the Bronco Sport is welcome! “But more than anything it’s a celebration of the Bronco culture, shopping the vendors, giving love to the community, and that’s what makes this weekend so fun,” said Event Director Brad Hoffman. Driving on the beach in Ocean City is a big part of the Bronco Beach Bash experience. Registered participants can enjoy scheduled beach cruises and time on a custom sand obstacle course, with the ocean providing a backdrop that makes this weekend different from the usual parking-lot gathering. Come down to the Inlet lot this weekend for the custom-built sand obstacle course designed and maintained by Delmarva Jeep Events. During their scheduled sand course shift, drivers

can go around as many times as they want, enjoying another lap and getting more time behind the wheel. Saturday’s Show & Shine runs from noon to 3 p.m., with awards at 4 p.m. Old-school and new-school Broncos will be recognized, along with Promoter’s Picks, Specialty Awards, Outstanding Awards and the coveted Best in Show. Pittsville Ford returns as the title sponsor, helping make this gathering possible and bringing the newest lineup of Ford Broncos, including the 60th Anniversary Edition Bronco. It’s a fitting addition to a weekend celebrating six

decades of Bronco history. Participants and visitors are encouraged to stop by, meet the Pittsville Ford team and take a closer look at what’s new. Eastern Shore Bronco Restorations brings the knowledge and enthusiasm that help owners turn ideas into their next project. Tim and his team can talk through ways to upgrade a Bronco and help bring an owner’s vision to life. Whether someone arrives with a specific plan or just a few ideas, the Bash is an opportunity to start that conversation in person. See BRONCO Page 59

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Answers on page 60

OCTOBER 30, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 57

HOROSCOPE ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, be especially patient and affectionate towards your loved ones this week. Someone close to you will need your help, and only you can provide it .

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, after many months spent figuring out what you want in life, this week you may finally be able to put a plan of action in motion. Enjoy the ride.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, clear your mind of cobwebs and any other errant thoughts. Right now you need to relax and unwind for a bit. You will feel better after a few days of recharging.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, you have been practical and sensible with your finances. However, this week you may be lured by a flashy purchase. If it is in the budget, then let loose.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, sometimes it is important to go with the flow and learn from others with an easygoing approach. Take time to exhale and unwind.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, you may feel refreshed and energized this week . This may pave the way to some new ideas, including a change of scenery or even a new job.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, an unexpected opportunity is presented to you in the days ahead. Give it some thought, but do not hesitate to take advantage of this exciting situation.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BERLIN POLICE DEPARTMENT

TRUCK-N-TREAT IN BERLIN Berlin’s annual Truck-N-Treat last Saturday attracted hundreds of local children, providing a close and personal look inside fire trucks, garbage trucks, police vehicles and utility apparatus. Pictured are scenes from the event, which was held at Stephen Decatur Park.

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SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, a public gathering in the near future may attract several people, including some you are interested in meeting. Take the first step and introduce yourself.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 It is alright to have some doubts when you are trying something new, Sagittarius. Just don’t let those doubts get the better of you and derail your plans.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 An important decision is looming on the horizon, Capricorn. Take some time to look inward as you try to choose the best path to take.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, think about a purchase before you barrel through full steam ahead. Check your accounts and make sure your finances are in check before you buy anything new.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Others appreciate your authenticity, Pisces. Stay true to yourself and you will have no regrets. Encourage others to do the same when they seek your input.

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PAGE 58

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 410-289-7192, captainstableoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar A local tradition for over 60 years featuring hand cut steaks, premium lobster and perfectly prepared regional seafood. Breakfast daily 7:30-11 a.m. Open daily for dinner: Sunday through Thursday, 4-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4-10 p.m. Happy Hour, seven days a week, 4-6 p.m. ■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT 28th Street Plaza and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100, www.coinspuboc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar American style local restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. Sunday’s early bird specials, all day and all night. Happy Hour; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. with food and drink specials. Open Monday through Friday, 2 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 11:30 a.m. Dine-in, carry out. ■ CORAL REEF RESTAURANT & BAR 17th Street in the Holiday Inn & Suites, Ocean City 410-289-2612, coralreefrestaurant.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Enjoy traditional Eastern Shore cuisine and local favorites that are sure to please your entire party! Choose from a selection of house specialty entrees such as sharables, handhelds and seafood. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Featuring specialty rums. Open daily, 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. ■ HARBOR WATCH 806 S. Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City 410289-5121, www.harborwatchrestaurant.com $$-$$$ | Reservations | Kids’ Menu | Full bar Celebrating our 42nd year with fresh seafood, an award-winning raw bar, mouthwatering steaks and the best view of the Ocean City Inlet and Assateague Island. Open Thursday through Sunday, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Call for banquet and largeparty details. ■ PICKLES PUB 706 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 410289-4891, picklesoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Easy to find with plenty of free parking, serving lunch, dinner and entire diverse menu until 1 a.m. Also nightly entertain-

ment 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.

MIDTOWN

29th to 90th streets ■ 32 PALM 32nd Street in The Hilton, Ocean City 410-289-2525, 32palm.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Elevated cuisine, locally sourced ingredients and allocated spirits are prominently featured in our lounge and dining room. Open year-round for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Routinely updated menus with the highest quality local ingredients for fresh seafood any time of the year! ■ THE BONFIRE 71st Street, Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, 410-524-7171, thebonfirerestaurant.com Celebrating more than 50 years as the best seafood and prime rib buffet in Ocean City. It’s all here – the service, the atmosphere and finest, freshest seafood available and quality meats. Save room for the decadent desserts available as well including homemade donuts. ■ FAGERS ISLAND 201 60th St., Ocean City, 410-524-5500, fagers.com $$ | 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, 410723-4665, hookedoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar A Common Ground Hospitality concept, a passion driven restaurant group servicing the coastal community. The goal is honor creativity and innovation by design. With passion at the heart of everything, unique dining concepts are paired with honest hospitality and well-made food sourced with fresh local ingredients and seasonal harvests. Craft and full bar available. Open daily 11:30 a.m. ■ LONGBOARD CAFÉ 6701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 443664-5693, longboardcafe.com $$-$$$ | Full bar Casual Dining … Refined. Open for lunch and dinner. A wide range of gourmet burgers, innovative tacos, salads and sand-

OCTOBER 30, 2026

wiches to full dinner entrees featuring fresh local fish prepared in a variety of styles, beef, shellfish and pasta. All our sauces, salsas, dressings, etc. are meticulously house made. We use fresh local sources wherever possible and premium ingredients such as our chuck, brisket and short rib custom blended burgers. Closed Tuesday. Call for reservations. ■ MARLIN MOON RESTAURANT 3301 Atlantic Ave., in the Double Tree Hotel, Ocean City 410-289-1201, marlinmoonocmd.com $$ | Full bar Winner of the Maryland People's choice award, Marlin Moon continues to offer its famous, locally loved dishes and famous happy hour. Enjoy creatively crafted cocktails, fresh selections from the raw bar and luscious desserts. Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m., featuring drink specials. Breakfast, 7:30-11:30 a.m.; Lite Fare, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Dinner, 4-10 p.m.; and Bar open noon to 11 p.m. ■ SEACRETS 49th Street, Ocean City 410-524-4900, www.seacrets.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Open Sunday through Friday at 11 a.m., 10 a.m. on Saturdays, close at 2 a.m. Enjoy a tropical atmosphere and dine under the palms in our outdoor, kid friendly dining area or try a Seacrets Beachin' Cocktails in the Bay with live music every day open to close. The club is open every night in the summer. Try our famous jerk chicken with homemade honey mustard sauce, Pushcart Trio, a true Jamaican dish or a hearty wrap, sandwich or delicious burger. We have it all at Seacrets.

UPTOWN

91st to 146th streets ■ ALBERTINO'S BRICK OVEN & EATERY 13117 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410-250-2000, albertinosoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Featuring the best brick oven pizza, always handmade with fresh ingredients, Italian-American mouth-watering seafood specialties, traditional Italian pasta dishes, apps, soups and salads. Full bar with large local craft beer selection. ■ THE CRAB BAG 13005 Coastal Highway Ocean City, 410250-3337, thecrabbag.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Featuring consistent hot steamed crabs, eat in or carryout. The Crab Bag is also an Eastern Shore style seafood house specializing in preparing and serving the biggest and the best blue crabs available. The extensive menu promises something for everyone. Winter hours, Friday-Sunday, open 11 a.m. ■ CRABCAKE FACTORY USA 120th Street, oceanside, Ocean City, 410-250-4900, crabcakefactoryusa.com Full-service family restaurant, carry-out and sports bar. Outside seating available. Menu selections include prime rib, chicken Chesapeake, steamed shrimp, beer battered fish, real Philly cheesesteaks, burgers, and a kids menu. Casual attire, full liquor bar, no reservations. Open Year Round. World-Famous Crabcakes are served all day starting at 8 a.m. and can be packed on ice for you while you are eating breakfast. ■ THE CURRY CULTURE 13707 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City 410213-4159 The Curry Culture brings the true taste of India to the beach with bold spices, authentic recipes, and a modern dining experience. The ambiance is beautiful and welcoming, and the staff is friendly, knowledgeable and kind. But it will be the deli-

cious Indian flavors and uniquely authentic dishes that bring you back for more.

FENWICK ISLAND ■ DIRTY HARRY’S 100 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-539-3020, Beach-net.com/dirtyharrys $ | Kids’ Menu | Full bar Don’t let the name fool you, the food is home cooking at its finest. Owned and operated by Ginny Swann and family for 20 years. Voted Best Top 5 Bakeries in Delaware. Popular for the breakfast but getting rave reviews for lunch and dinner, too. ■ NANTUCKETS Route 1, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-5392607, nantucketsrestaurant.com Serving the beach great food and spirits for over 30 years. David and Janet Twining will wow you with the finest foods and drinks in the area. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by what one of the coast’s finest dining establishments has in store for guests. Everything here is a house specialty. ■ TWINING’S LOBSTER SHANTY Rte. 54, Fenwick Island, Del., 302-4362305, twiningshanty.com Reservations | Kids’ Menu “A funky little place at the edge of town.” Classic New England fare, lobsters, steaks and burgers. Bird watching and magical sunsets await. Open for lunch and dinner. Reservations are suggested.

WEST OCEAN CITY ■ BREAKFAST CAFE 12736 Ocean Gateway, Route 50 east, West Ocean City, 410-213-1804, breakfastcafeofoc.com All the traditional breakfast options available here in a casual, diner setting. Open daily closing at 2 p.m. ■ CANTINA LOS AGAVES MEXICAN GRILL 12720 Ocean Gateway #7, West Ocean City 410-390-3914, cantinalosagaves.com $$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar Ocean City’s newest Mexican restaurant and bar. Offering delicious and generous portions of the tastiest traditional and not so traditional #MexicanEats you have ever tried. Open everyday, 12 noon to 9 p.m., kitchen and bar. ■ DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND West Ocean City: Route 50 east; Boardwalk locations: 501 S. Philadelphia Ave., 49th Street, 123rd Street, Ocean City, dumsersdairyland.com This classic ice cream shop is a tradition for many families. Voted O.C.’s “Best Ice Cream” for the past 20 years, Dumser’s is celebrating decades of serving the shore, and the ‘40s-style décor takes you back in time. With locations throughout Ocean City, treating your tastebuds to this signature homemade ice cream is easy. The 123rd Street location offers lunch and dinner menus in addition to a wide variety of ice cream treats. ■ HARBORSIDE BAR & GRILL 12841 Harbor Rd., West Ocean City, 410-213-1846, weocharborside.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Home of the original Orange Crush drink with an extensive menu offers a wide variety of appetizers, fresh seafood, steak & pasta entrees, as well as juicy burgers and sandwiches. Whether seeking a full dining experience or just a crush or two, the team will be sure to take excellent care of you and yours. Monday-Wednesday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thursday: 11 a.m.10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

OCTOBER 30, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

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Bronco Beach Bash underway Continued from Page 56 KICKER and Audio Works will be on-site selling and installing speakers and subwoofers, bringing big sound to the Bronco community. Their team can help owners explore audio upgrades and installations with off-roading in mind. Stop by, ask questions and find out what makes sense for the way you use your Bronco. BWT Offroad will also be on-site with KG1 Forged and Fury Tires. Matt Barnes and his team will be selling and installing wheels and tires, with access to a wide selection of top brands. For participants considering a new look or their next upgrade, it’s a chance to talk with the team and see options up close. Redline Apparel will carry officially licensed Ford merchandise for Ford fanatics and lifestyle enthusiasts. Pick up some gear, support the vendors and take a little of the weekend home. Organizers also welcome Ruc Rak, Turned to Perfection, Custom Performance Engineering, Tuff Road Rugs and Treetop Design Laser Engraving. These businesses help give participants more to explore between activities. Hang out, say hello and learn about the products, services and people supporting the event. A special welcome goes to Destination Bigfoot Bronco and Chaos Fab Motorsports, serving as Bronco Ambassadors for the event. Jamie and Hillary Castleberry of Destination Bigfoot Bronco, along with AK and Maria Whatley of Chaos Fab Motorsports, bring their passion, experience and some seriously wild Broncos to Ocean City. These are people who understand the excitement of building something personal and then getting out and enjoying it. Their attendance gives participants and visitors a chance to meet the personalities behind the builds, ask questions and share their own Bronco stories. Come take a closer look, talk Broncos and welcome them to the beach. With the event falling right on Halloween weekend, costumes and decorated Broncos will be part of the fun. Participants are encouraged to pack a costume, get their crew involved and bring some personality to their Bronco. Saturday night’s Halloween Party and Costume Contest takes place 6–9 p.m. at BLU Crabhouse on 24th Street, bayside. Prizes will be awarded for the best costume/decoration combo. It’s a chance to relax after a day of beach driving, sand course sessions and Show & Shine, catch up with old friends and make a few new ones. Discounts on your bill when you show your event badge! The Ocean City Convention Center serves as event headquarters and the hub for vendors and participant check-in. The OC RV Show is happening the same weekend at the Convention Center. Registered Bronco Beach Bash participants can use their event badge for admission to the OC RV Show at no additional charge.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BRONCO BEACH BASH

Dozens of Broncos of all shapes, years and models are pictured lining up during a previous year’s event for an early-morning beach crawl in downtown Ocean City.

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OCTOBER 30, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

Calendar Submit calendar items to: editor@octodaydispatch.com. Submission deadline is 5 p.m. Monday, the week of publication. Local submissions have priority. Area event listings are subject to space availability.

4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Featuring beach cruises, sand obstacle course, a Vendor Village, Bronco displays from 50 years of Ford heritage, contests and live entertainment. Registration, event schedule: BroncoBeachBash.com. 443-366-5944

Maryland’s Coast - Worcester County Tourism & Economic Development, 107 W. Green St., Snow Hill, 2 p.m. Use tissue paper to decorate a collage candle holder. Registration required: 443-7836164. worcesterlibrary.org

GREAT BOOKS DISCUSSION

Fri., Oct. 30 BRONCO BEACH BASH OCMD

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Featuring beach cruises, sand obstacle course, a Vendor Village, Bronco displays from 50 years of Ford heritage, contests and live entertainment. Registration, event schedule: BroncoBeachBash.com. 443-366-5944

OC RV & VAN LIFESTYLE SHOW

Ocean City Convention & Visitors Bureau, 4001 Coastal Highway, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. RVs, vendors, Bronco Beach Bash, OC Customs, live BMX shows and more. On Halloween, show-wide trick-ortreating. Admission is $15 for adults and free to kids 12 years and younger. https://ocrvshow.com

treating. Admission is $15 for adults and free to kids 12 years and younger. https://ocrvshow.com

HALLOWEEN FALL FESTIVAL

White Horse Park, 235 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Carnival games, face painting, costume contest, haunted hayride, refreshments, candy and goodies. Free admission. Open to the public. Donations of individually wrapped Halloween candy is appreciated. 410-641-7052

TRICK OR TREAT AT THE LIBRARY

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 9 a.m.4 p.m. Come to the library in costume, create your trick or treat bag, and then go around the desks to collect your candy. For families. 410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org

OC MAHJONG CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Join in for a fun morning of playing tile Mahjong. Feel free to bring your own tile set. All adults are welcome. 410-5241818, worcesterlibrary.org

DR. MADDOCKTOR’S HAUNTED LABORATORY Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 12 p.m. For families. 410-641-0650, worcesterlibrary.org

HALLOWEEN TRIVIA

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Test your knowledge of everything that goes bump in the night with this trivia contest. Prizes awarded. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

Sat., Oct. 31 BRONCO BEACH BASH OCMD

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 10 a.m.-noon. Halloween crafts, games and treats. For families. 410-957-0878, worcesterlibrary.org

HALLOWEEN AT THE ART LEAGUE

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 11 a.m.-1:01 p.m. Go on a Halloween Arty Spy adventure. Make your own Halloween slime. Come dressed in costume. Follow the clues throughout the Arts Center to discover candy bowls along the way. Free event. 410-524-9433

DR. MADDOCKTOR’S HAUNTED LABORATORY Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 3 p.m. For families. 410-641-0650, worcesterlibrary.org

OCEAN PINES FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods. Also featuring family-friendly activities, music and unique shopping experiences. Open to the public, year round. 410-6417052, https://www.oceanpines.org/web/pages /farmers-artisans-market

OC RV & VAN LIFESTYLE SHOW

Ocean City Convention & Visitors Bureau, 4001 Coastal Highway, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. RVs, vendors, Bronco Beach Bash, OC Customs, live BMX shows and more. On Halloween, show-wide trick-or-

Sun., Nov. 1

OC RV & VAN LIFESTYLE SHOW

Ocean City Convention & Visitors Bureau, 4001 Coastal Highway, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. RVs, vendors, Bronco Beach Bash, OC Customs, live BMX shows and more. On Halloween, show-wide trick-ortreating. Admission is $15 for adults and free to kids 12 years and younger. https://ocrvshow.com

RUMOURS OF FLEETWOOD MAC

ZUMBA

Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 4:30 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com

Ocean City Performing Arts Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, 7 p.m. Featuring the world’s finest tribute. VIP Meet & Greet Soundcheck Package available. Tickets: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/9821997 9/rumours-of-fleetwood-mac-oceancity-oc-performing-arts-center.

BRIDGE

OPVFD 2ND ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS

BERLIN FARMERS MARKET

OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS

SEWING SEEDS OF LOVE

Tues., Nov. 3

Ocean Pines Golf Club, 100 Clubhouse Drive, 9 a.m. Registration begins at 8 a.m. Registration fee is $150 and includes green fee, cart, breakfast and lunch. Single or doubles welcome. Rain date Nov. 8. opvfd.com/golf, 410-6418272

Sundays (May-October) - Pitts, Commerce and Main streets, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine. Producers only market, petting farm (9-11 a.m.), live music. www.TheBerlinFarmersMarket.com

Sundays - Buckingham Presbyterian Church, 20 S. Main St., Berlin, 10-11 a.m. Youth of all ages learn how to sew while making a difference. 410-6410234

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

Sundays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 10 a.m. www.jw.org

Mon., Nov. 2 STORY TIME: DONUTS

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Crafts, songs and stories. For ages 0-5 years. 410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org

BABY TIME

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Songs, stories and giggles. For ages 0-2 years. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

BRONCO BEACH BASH OCMD

Roland E. Powell Convention Center,

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2:30 p.m. The group meets once a month to discuss selections from the Great Books Foundation. The group will be reading “Heart of Darkness” by Joseph Conrad. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

CANDLE HOLDER COLLAGE CRAFT

Mondays - Ocean City 50plus Center, 104 41st Street, Ocean City, 12:30-3:30 p.m. Reserve a spot: Tish, 410-8043971. www.Worcoa.org/oceancity

Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6:00-8:00 p.m. All ladies who love to sing invited. If you plan to visit, please Contact: Director: Ludwig692@outlook.com, 410641-6876 or Membership Coordinator: ocelissa@yahoo.com, 410-641-8050.

Mondays - Worcester County Library Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 7-8 p.m. No dues or fees. 410-459-9100

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, worcesterlibrary.org

PLAY TIME AT THE PARK

Cypress Park, 7 Bridge St., Pocomoke City, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Meet at the play-

Crossword answers from page 56

OC Today-Dispatch

OCTOBER 30, 2026

PAGE 61

CALENDAR ground for a casual meet up. Play, have fun and meet friends. For ages 2-5 years. 410-957-0878, worcesterlibrary.org

plimentary glass of beverage of your choice, and a painting to take home. Cost is $27. Register: 410-641-7052.

OC KNITTING GROUP

GRACE PARKER BREAKFAST

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Bring whatever project you happen to be working on. 410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org

STORY TIME

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Story time featuring seasonal themes designed to support early literacy skills with stories, songs and fingerplays. For ages 0-5 years. 410-641-0650, worcesterlibrary.org

PRESSED FLOWER JARS

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Use dried flowers and glass jars to create a work of art. Registration required: 410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org.

BEACH HEROES-OC

Tuesdays - Volunteer beach clean-up group meets from 9-10 a.m., year-round. Trash bags, grabbers and gloves provided. Check the Facebook page “Beach Heroes-OC” for weekly meeting locations. All are welcome.

First Presbyterian Church of Ocean City, 1301 Philadelphia Ave., 7-11 a.m. Menu includes eggs, pancakes, buckwheat cakes, sausage, bacon, grits, biscuits, coffee. Cost is $15 to eat in and $10 to carry out. Proceeds support mission giving.

PUZZLE SWAP

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 1-7 p.m. Bring your gently used puzzles and leave with a new-to-you puzzle. Don’t have a puzzle but still want one? That’s okay, too. All puzzles must be complete and in their original box. All ages welcome. 410-6410650

AI QUEST

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 4 p.m. Join in to train a real-time AI forecasting tool and deploy emergency defenses before the town floods. For ages 12-18 years. 410957-0878, worcesterlibrary.org

BINGO

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

Tuesdays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 7 p.m. www.jw.org

The Sterling Tavern, 119 N. Main St., Berlin, 6 p.m. Play bingo and support the Church Mouse Ministry Outreach of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. $2 per bingo card, cash only. Prizes include donations and gift cards from local businesses.

TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY

KIWANIS CLUB MEETING

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

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.

ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE

Tuesdays - Lewes Senior Center, 32083 Janice Rd. Lewes, DE, 7-9 p.m. Experienced dancers and others interested in watching or learning more are welcome. No partner required. Info: TangobytheBeach.com.

CASH BINGO

ZUMBA TONING TUESDAYS

ZUMBA PLUS!!

Tuesdays - Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 5:15 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com

WEIGHT MANAGEMENT AND WELLNESS GROUP

Tuesdays - Holy Trinity Cathedral, 11021 Worcester Highway, 2-2:45 p.m. Use the weight loss program/app/plan of your choice. Free and open to everyone. 410-641-4882, www.htcanglican.org/activities.

Wed., Nov. 4 PAINT & SIP NIGHT

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 6 p.m. Step-by-step instructions, painting supplies, one com-

Wednesdays - Ocean City Elks Lodge 2645, 13708 Sinepuxent Ave. Door open at 5 p.m., bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. Food available before bingo. Open to the public. 443-605-5028 Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 4:30 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com

Thurs., Nov. 5 STORY TIME: ‘SLEEPY SHEEPY’

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Craft, songs and stories. For ages 2-5 years. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

PLAY TIME

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Join in for a variety of activities and toys. Play and socialize with other families. For ages 2-5 years. 410-632-5622,

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 month at the library. 410-5241818, worcesterlibrary.org

POCOMOKE BOOK CLUB: ‘FROZEN RIVER’ BY ARIEL LAWHON Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 2 p.m. Copies of the book are available at the Pocomoke Branch Library. 410-957-0878, worcesterlibrary.org

is $10 and includes one paddle. Additional paddles cost $5. All-in paddle is $60. Tickets: coastalhospice.org/event/quarterauction. 410-742-8732

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 CHOMPSAW CARDBOARD CHALLENGE

THE HISTORY OF OLD BAY

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30 p.m. Discover the history behind this delicious spice and create Old Bay art. For ages 6-11 years. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

WILD & SCENIC FILM FESTIVAL

Seacrets, 117 49th St., Ocean City, 5:309 p.m. Featuring award-winning films that showcase the beauty of our planet, the challenges it faces. Advance ticket cost is $30 each or $100 for 4. Tickets at the door are $35. https://www.actforbays.org, 443-856-9309

QUARTER AUCTION

Pittsville Fire Co, 7442 Gumboro Road, 69 p.m. Free. Doors open at 5 p.m. Auctions, food, raffles, prizes. Admission cost

Snow Hill library, 301 Bank St., Nov.2-7. Stop by the library any time this week to use our kid-safe cutting tool to make fun and fantastical cardboard creations. For families. 410-632-5622

TEEN TIME: THANKSGIVING DECOUPAGE CENTERPIECES

Ocean Pines library, 11107 Cathell Road, Nov. 2-23, 3:30 p.m. Create a beautiful centerpiece. While supplies last. For ages 12-18 years. 410-208-4014

OC READS: ‘LISTEN FOR THE LIE’ BY AMY TINTERA

Ocean City library, 10003 Coastal Highway, Nov. 1-30. Simply pick up a copy of this month’s read. Come in before the end of the month to share your impressions and enter the drawing to win free books. 410-524-1818

OC Today-Dispatch

October 30, 2026 Call 410-723-6397 or email classifieds@octodaydispatch.com by Monday, 5 p.m.

Classifieds appear in OC Today-Dispatch & Bayside Gazette each week & online at octodaydispatch.com & baysideoc.com

MARKETPLACE HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

RENTALS

NOW HIRING!! Production Crew

OFFICE ASSISTANT Ocean Area Enterprise seeks a dependable, detail-oriented person with bookkeeping experience and strong computer skills. Duties include invoice entry, accounts payable/receivable, and general office support. Seeking a long-term team member with opportunities for increased responsibility. This is not a Remote position. Please call: 302-228-2353.

DONATION CENTER TEAM Diakonia Thrift Store, 12507 Sunset Ave., West OC. Assist donors unloading, must be able to lift 40 lbs. Strong knowledge of name brand clothing, shoes, purses. Part-time, 8-20 hours a week. Transportation req. $18 hour. Send resume to: dwise@diakoniaoc.org

4BR/2BA Ocean Pines $2200 + Utilities. 2BA/1BA Ocean Pines $1250 + Utilities. 1BR OC Midtown shared house $1000. Deposits required. 1Nov.-1May. Text/call: 443-397-8647.

Fully Furnished 2 bedrm/2 bath Condo for rent on ocean block. Nov. thru May. Utilities, cable and internet included. Fully equipped kitchen. $1500 monthly. Contact Joyce at 610-405-8942 or email joycepetrauskas@gmail. com

for our WOC kitchen facility Up to $20/hr. Apply online at: www.delmarvadd.com Classifieds 410-723-6397

TOWN OF PITTSVILLE Water Treatment Plant Operator/ MDE Class IV Operator The Town of Pittsville, Maryland is accepting applications for the position of WATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR (certified). The successful candidate must have an MDE Class IV Operator's License and will be responsible for operating the water treatment plant independently while executing all maintenance and other critical tasks to include testing with minimal supervision under the Superintendent of Public Utilities. Applicants must have a valid Class C drivers license, be available for weekends and holidays, as well as the ability to perform manual and required clerical work, and other duties as assigned. The Town offers the following: paid holidays, vacation days, sick leave, personal days with a competitive employee benefit package to include required participation in the State of Maryland's Employee Pension System, health care benefits, short term and long term disability, life insurance plus a positive work environment with support from the Town staff. Starting salary for certified MDE Class IV Operator is $30.00$35.00 per hour depending on qualifications. Applications along with a letter of interest should be submitted to the Town Manager, Pittsville, Maryland at 7505 Gumboro Road, Pittsville, MD by November 30,2026. Position opened until filled. Any questions, please contact the Pittsville Town Hall at 410-835-8872. The Town of Pittsville is an equal opportunity employer.

JOLLY ROGER Small Engine Mechanic & Ride Maintenance. (Must have mechanical knowledge) Technical Support & Installation (Entry level with knowledge of network systems) SEASONAL HELP: Cashiers, Waterpark Attendants, Lifeguards, Ride Operators Wage based on experience. Benefits available. 410-289-4902 AMERICAN LEGION AM/PM, PT/YR COOKS Dependable, reliable Apply within. American Legion Post 166, 2308 Philadelphia Avenue, OC, MD 21842 410-289-3166

SEEKING SEEKING EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT Experienced Bookkeeper looking for part time bookkeeping work. I have over 25 years of bookkeeping work experience in the accounting field. I am a local, reliable, hardworking and honest worker. Please contact me at: mobile: 443-235-6761 email: davis.kathy459@gmail.com

RENTALS RENTALS 13601 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City MD, 21842

Immediate Team Member Needed! Are you passionate about making delicious hand-formed burgers and fresh-cut fries? Do you thrive in a fast-paced, fun-loving environment? Team Members will be trained in all aspects of the kitchen including cashiering, dressing burgers, grilling and working the fry station. Cleaning is required for all staff members. Starting at minimum wage or above (depending on experience and location). There's also opportunity to earn tips and bonuses! Here's just a few reasons why you should join our Team: • Enjoy an employee discount on our delicious burgers and fries • Flexible schedule options, including day shifts, night shifts, and weekend availability • Part time and full time positions available • Opportunity for tips and bonus pay • Competitive wages • Healthcare plans available for qualified Team Members and Leaders Requirements: • No formal education required • Ability to work on-site at our locations

410-250-1199 ~ https://careers.fiveguys.com

CLASSIFIEDS 410-723-6397

Year Round West Ocean City - unfurnished. Recently remodeled, new mini split HVAC, big closet with a loft for storage, new carpet. $1,550 per month. Text or call John, 410-726-0075. Seeking Year-Round Rentals! Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555.

YR RENTAL SURFSIDE 8 CONDO 1BR, 1BA First floor walkout. Fully furnished. 100% remodeled, new hardwood floors, granite counters, mini split A/C, walk-in shower, large closet, side parking. $1,550 per month. Incl’s high speed WiFi & cable. Incl’s electric up to $100. NO PETS/NO SMOKING 8th Street, OC 410-603-9453 YR LARGE HOME For group or family. 104th St./Old Landing Rd., OC 4 Large Master BR’s 1 Reg BR 4 Bathrooms Close to beach, bus stop, malls and library. $3,400 per mo. 443-880-2486 OCEANVIEW RENTAL DANCE WEEKENDS, HOLIDAYS! NEWLY AVAILABLE 2BR, 2BA, SLEEPS 6 38TH ST AND THE BEACH Great location, next door to Castle in the Sand, walk to Concerts, close to restaurants. Across from Convention Center! 443-880-8885 or view and book: SeaLaVie https://book.vuestay.com/ ocean-city-bright-beachhome-near-the-boardwalkwi-b46jo9

WINTER RENTAL 2BR, 1BA, Small Condo. 5th Street, 1 block to the boards. Absolutely No smoking/pets. $800/mo. Water & WiFi incl’d. 1-month sec. dep. req. Oct. 10-April 10th. OCMD. Text 410-952-5234

ROOMMATES ROOMMATES ROOM FOR RENT Fully furnished, large, clean, private room. Full house privileges. $900 per mo., util’s included. $400 sec. dep. Call 443-880-2317.

COMMERCIAL COMMERCIAL 2 Office/Retail Spaces available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft. and 1728 sq. ft. Call 443-497-4200 Industrial Space Yard and Storage Shed. Approx. 10x25+/Route 90/Bishopville. Call 443-497-4200

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT 5700 Coastal Highway Spacious, climatecontrolled office, furnished or unfurnished, with use of conference room & reception area in a modern, wellmaintained building in Ocean City. Great Views! Call 410-524-3440 for appointment.

REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE FOR SALE OR RENT West OC Salt Life Senior Community. 2BR, 1BA Mobile Home. Fully furnished. New Pool & Community BBQ Area. Close to beaches, restaurants, fishing. Will co-op w/realtor. Call 410-807-2515 for more info.

SERVICES SERVICES CAREGIVER IN YOUR HOME Honest, dependable, trustworthy, compassionate care. 43 yrs. medical & home health experience. Excellent references upon request. Call Debbie Bell, 302-339-7162. LARRY’S HANDYMAN SERVICES No job too small, windows, entrance doors, interior doors, storm doors, shower doors, drywall repairs and paint, laminate floors, interior paint. Over 40 years of carpentry experience. Please call Larry, 410-251-9066 Larryandkim1954@ gmail.com

It’s not too late to advertise your winter rentals.

GET IT RENTED HERE!

Utilities Included CONTACT US AT burgundyinn@gmail.com

YEARLY RENTAL Available Immediately Furn. 2BR, 1BA Lrg. Deck, Waterview Heart of OC Dog friendly, NO CATS! $2,000/mo. + electric. Call/text 703-819-7400

FOR RENT OP 3BR, 2BA $2,200 per mo. + utils. Berlin, MD 410-456-0272

Classifieds 410-723-6397

WINTER RENTALS

410-289-8581

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OC Today-Dispatch

OCTOBER 30, 2026

PETS

FOR SALE

YORKIE PUPPIES Home Raised. Female. Mother and Father on premises. 302-934-8913

CEMETERY PLOT FOR SALE COASTAL COMMUNITY CEMETERY Plot #171-C. REDUCED TO $350! ($1,000 Value) Rt. 50, Berlin, MD Call 443-783-2989.

WANT TO BUY WANT TO BUY

I BUY ALBUMS! 410-430-5349

FOR SALE FOR SALE FOR SALE Electric Hospital Bed $350 (orig. $1,350) Electric Powerlift Chair w/everything. $300. Call 443-614-3088.

Classifieds 410-723-6397

FIREWOOD Cord of seasoned firewood $250 or $7 a bundle. Call Paul 443-795-1177.

LAZY BOY FURNITURE Couch & Oversized Chair $500.00 Call 410-493-3847

BOATS/PWC

BOAT/TRAILER FOR SALE 2002 Trophy, 21’ Center Console, 2019 200 hp Suzuki, only 130 hrs. Runs great! Live well, freshwater tank, stereo, Garmin fish finder, depth finder. Fiberglass, 80gallon fuel tank, SS prop, TRAILER 2021 5 STARR Excellent cond., Dual wheel brakes. $25,000 Call 410-493-3847

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PAGE 63

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 64

OCTOBER 30, 2026

DIRECTORY BLINDS / SHADES

CARPENTRY

SPECIALIzINg in INTERIOR TRIM

CARPET CLEANING

COASTAL CARPENTRY, INC

Licensed & Insured for 35 Years

WeKnowWood.com

Family Owned & Operated Serving MD & DE | 410-829-0181 HANDYMAN SERVICES

RISH A RBEACHMAN PHANDY THE

Exterior Home Repairs

“WE DO IT ALL” • Roofing Repairs • Rain Gutters • Roof Cleaning • Gutter Guards

• Screening • Painting

• Staining • Caulking

• Gutter Cleaning & Powerwashing •

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HOME IMPROVEMENT

TRADITIONAL HANDYMAN SERVICES MHIC #127296

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BATHROOM / KITCHEN WINDOW & DOORS INTERIOR / EXTERIOR CARPENTRY

PAINTING FLOORING SMALL JOBS & MORE CALL 410-999-4998

• Deck Repairs •

Licensed • Bonded • Insured • MHIC 17433 Phil Parrish

“A Family Tradition Since 1935”

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EVANS BROTHERS

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Decks / Screen Rooms / Wood / Composite Windows / Siding Bathroom / Kitchen Remodels Flooring Hardwood / LVP Ceramic Tiles

* NOW OFFERING * DISPOSAL ROLLOFF SERVICE Quick Reliable Service 7 Days A Week Clean Up Crews Available • 15 & 20 Yard

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Complete Home Improvement Contractor

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HOME IMPROVEMENT roofing

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PipeLine

Contracting, LLC

Home Improvement Services Company

“One stop shop for Home Improvement”

Home Improvement Design & Bertch Cabinet Retail • Cabinets & Countertop • Flooring & Tile • Kitchen & Bath Remodeling • Residential & Commercial • Servicing Maryland & • General Carpentry & Delaware Beaches Painting

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Time to schedule and complete before Memorial Day!

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LANDSCAPING

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LANDSCAPING • IRRIGATION HARDSCAPING • FREE ESTIMATES Full Service/Yearly Maintenance Contracts Available

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OC Today-Dispatch

OCTOBER 30, 2026

PAGE 65

DIRECTORY LANDSCAPING

Lawncare, Landscaping & Hardscapes S

• Spring Cleanup • Brush Removal • Hauling • Mulch • Planting • Driveway Seal Coating • Patio & Walkway • Custom Landscape

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PAINTING

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PLUMBING

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ROOFING

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We do it all from ground work to rough in to final trim & fixtures.

Plumbing and Gas, LLC

We Install:

Faucets/Sinks • Showers/Tubs/Toilets Water Heaters • Water/Sewer Lines

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CALL FOR ANY OF YOUR PLUMBING OR GAS NEEDS

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COMMERCIAL ROOFING COMPANY

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443-515-3562 • 240-417-1052

PAGE 66

OC Today-Dispatch

OCTOBER 30, 2026

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Classic egg salad with fall twists By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer (Oct. 30, 2026) There is a widespread culinary assumption that simplicity is the opposite of complexity. But if we deconstruct this philosophical presumption in its true essence, one will find there are exceptions. First and foremost, the facets of easiness are arguably subjective and therefore cannot be finalized for conclusion. In addition, we relish the thought of eating tasty food. While the degree of deliciousness fluctuates, flavor is a variable that is always in demand and determines the outcome of a dish. With that thought in mind, can the definition of minimalism be a postulation for all? But more importantly, culinary clarity is relative and minimalism is put to the test by the extent of individual effort. Taking that into account, let us turn

our attention to egg salad. This American favorite has ancient roots that go back to the Roman times. Boiled eggs with seasoned sauces, herbs, and oils were a featured dish. It was not until the mid-18th to early 19th century that European cooking introduced combining mayonnaise as a binding agent that defined egg salad as we know it today. Egg salad is basic in nature and easy to make. That being said, do not be fooled by the plainness and straightforwardness of egg salad. If one wants to create a superlative egg salad, you must have a clear understanding of the overall structure of the dish. There is much to discuss, so let’s get started. Hard-boiled eggs are the essence of this dish. There are many ways to cook hard-boiled eggs, but I find the following process is the most-full proof method. Bring a pot of water to a soft-boil. Once it comes to a boil, carefully lower the eggs. The water will stop boiling. Once the water returns to a soft boil, set the

timer for 13 minutes. When done, immediately pour out the hot water and refill the pot with cold water. This stops the cooking process and allows you to peel the eggs. How one chops the eggs is an important step and should be given consideration. Chop half of the eggs finely and the other half coarsely. This gives the consistency of variance which makes it more interesting for the palette and presentation. Typically, egg salad is a combination of eggs and mayonnaise. Memorable occasions go far beyond the norm. The addition of small amounts of celery, green pepper, and onions brings the salad to new levels of flavor. Details equate unforgettable egg salad. Use the inner part of the celery stalks. They are softer and better suited for the tender texture of the eggs. While we are on the subject of celery, always slice the celery with the ridges of the stalks face down on the chopping board. By doing so, you are able to eliminate the strings that can sometimes form when slicing celery. There are a wide variety of onions, so which one do you choose? Red and yellow onions have quite a “punch” to them and can overpower the eggs. Sweet onions are milder and enhance the dish while allowing the eggs to be the “star” of the dish. Peppers, celery, and onions contain natural juices which can cause the salad to become soggy. Using paper towels, squeeze out the excess liquid. If you want to give your mayonnaise a little boost in flavor, add a little rice vinegar and Dijon mustard. The added ingredients give the mayo much more essence. Egg salad is typically served as a sandwich in the spring and summer, but with a few adjustments egg salad can be served year-round. Pumpernickel toast points and egg salad is a great fall adjustment. Pumpernickel bread is hearty yet light enough for the light salad. Everyone loves bacon. Eggs need salt and egg salad and bacon are a perfect paring. Adding bacon to your egg salad sandwich changes the entire flavor profile. Who says you have to have bread? A lettuce wrap of egg salad with a slice of bacon and thinly sliced tomatoes are delicious.

As the weather turns a little colder, our menu has a tendency to become a little heartier. Adding a little pasta to the salad changes the dish in its entirety. Consider replacing some of the green pepper with yellow, red, and orange peppers to coincide with the theme of fall. If dairy products are not an option, replace the mayonnaise with avocado. If you are hosting a brunch, consider serving egg salad, chicken salad, and tuna salad in individual hollowed out mini pumpkins. Crackers that are topped with sesame seeds adds a nice contrast in texture and add to the overall fall festivities. In closing, egg salad is always a favorite, easy on your wallet, and can be made on the spur of the moment. With a few adjustments and a little imagination, egg salad can be added to your fall repertoire of dishes. Enjoy! * The following recipe is a classic egg salad recipe. If you like egg salad, you must give this recipe a try. Make fall adjustments according to your personal preference purpose intended. Dressing 1 cup mayonnaise 1 teaspoon rice vinegar 1/8 to ¼ teaspoon Dijon mustard 1. In a small bowl, combine the ingredients until they are fully blended. Egg Salad 18 eggs 3 soft stalks celery, finely chopped ½ large green pepper, finely chopped ½ small sweet onion, finely chopped kosher salt to taste 1. Cook the eggs according to the instructions in the article. Peel eggs and pat dry with paper towels. 2. Using paper towels, squeeze out excess liquid from the veggies. 3. Chop half of the eggs finely and the other half coarsely. 4. In a large bowl, toss the eggs, veggies, and dressing until well combined. 5. Season with kosher salt. Refrigerate 1 hour before serving. Secret Ingredient – Eggs The present was an egg laid by the past that had the future inside its shell. - Zora Neale Hurston

OCTOBER 30, 2026 ERICA M. WITZ, ESQ. WEBB, LLP 115 BROAD STREET SALISBURY, MD 21801 410-742-3176

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE’S SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

1309 MARKET STREET POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851 Under a power of sale contained in Deed of Trust from Cypress Solutions, LLC, dated July 29, 2016, and recorded in Liber 9139, folio 180 among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, default having occurred thereunder (Case no. C-23-CV-26-000154; Tax ID 01025538) the Sub. Trustee will sell at public auction at the WORCESTER COUNTY COURTHOUSE, located at 1 W Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863) on Wednesday, November 18, 2026 at 10:00 am ALL that lot, tract or parcel of land situate, lying and being in the Town of Pocomoke First Tax District, Worcester County and State of Maryland, and more fully described in the above referenced Deed of Trust. The property 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. NOTE: The Secured Party placed a land use covenant on the property restricting use of the property to a medical office. Secured Party will modify said restriction at the Purchaser’s request, subject to the reasonable approval of the Secured Party. Any modification will prohibit use of the property as a bank, credit union, or financial services business. Terms of Sale: A deposit of ten percent (10%) of the purchase price will be required at the time of sale, such deposit to be in cash, certified check or other form acceptable to the Substitute Trustee. No deposit shall be required of the Secured Party where the secured party bids in the property at auction. Balance of the purchase price shall be due in cash or by certified check with interest on the unpaid balance of the purchase price at a rate pursuant to the Deed of Trust Note from the date of sale to and including the date of settlement. Purchaser shall settle and comply with the sale terms within twenty (20) days following the final ratification of sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, unless said period is extended by the Substitute Trustee for good cause shown. Time is of the essence as to the purchaser. Settlement shall be held at the office of the Substitute Trustee. Taxes, ground rent, water rent, condominium fees and/or homeowner association dues, all public charges/assessments payable on an annual basis, including sanitary and/or metropolitan district charges, if applicable, shall be adjusted to the date of sale and assumed thereafter

OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices by the purchaser. Purchaser shall pay all state and local transfer taxes, recordation taxes and fees, attorneys’ fees and all other incidental settlement costs. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. If the Purchaser defaults, the deposit shall be forfeited and the property shall be resold at the purchaser’s risk and expense. Purchaser waives personal service and accepts service by first class mail and certified mail addressed to the address provided by said purchaser as identified on the Memorandum of Sale for any Motion or Show Cause Order incident to this sale including a Motion to Default Purchaser and for Resale of the property. In the event of a resale, the defaulting Purchaser shall not be entitled to receive any benefit from the resale, including, but not limited to, additional proceeds or surplus which may arise therefrom. There will be no abatement of interest in the event additional funds are tendered at the time of sale or any time prior to settlement or if the settlement is delayed for any reason. In the event that the Secured Party executes a forbearance agreement with the borrower(s) described in the above-mentioned Deed of Trust, or allows the borrower(s) to execute their right to reinstate or payoff the subject loan, prior to the sale, with or without the Substitute Trustee’s prior knowledge, this Contract shall be null and void and of no effect, and Purchaser’s sole remedy shall be the return of the deposit without interest. Purchaser assumes the risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale forward. If the Substitute Trustee(s) are unable to convey insurable title for any reason, the purchaser(s) sole remedy in law or equity shall be limited to a refund of the aforementioned deposit without interest. In the event the sale is not ratified for any reason, the Purchaser’s sole remedy, at law or equity, is the return of the deposit without interest. Further terms and particulars may be announced at time of sale, and Purchaser may be required to execute a Memorandum of Sale at the time of auction. (File no. 37670-31) Erica Witz, Substitute Trustee Zeb Barfield ZBB, Inc. 12100 Mears Station RD P.O. Box 208 Hallwood, VA 23359 757-824-4698 Lic. No. VAAR2046 OCD-10/29/3t _________________________________ Piel Law Firm, LLC 502 Washington Avenue, Suite 730 Towson, Maryland 21204

TRUSTEE’S SALE

RESIDENTIAL CONDOMINIUM UNIT 11500 COASTAL HIGHWAY, UNIT 1300 OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust, Assignment of Leases

and Rents, Security Agreement and Fixture Filing, dated May 2, 2025, executed by DeFrancesco Properties LLC to Hunter C. Piel, Esquire (the “Trustee”), and recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland in Liber 8943, folio 19 (the “Deed of Trust”), default having occurred under the terms of the Deed of Trust, and pursuant to the request of the holder of the indebtedness secured by the Deed of Trust (the “Noteholder”), the Trustee will offer for sale at public auction to the highest qualified bidder at the front steps of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863, on: TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2026 AT 4:00 P.M. ALL OF THAT real property being situate in Worcester County, Maryland (the “Property”), in fee simple, being more particularly described in the Deed of Trust, and generally known as 11500 Coastal Highway, Unit 1300, Sea Watch, Ocean City, Maryland 21842 (Tax ID No. 10-141966). TERMS OF SALE: A deposit in the amount of Fifteen Thousand Dollars ($15,000.00), payable in the form of cashier’s check, certified check, or other form acceptable to the Trustee, in Trustee’s sole and absolute discretion, will be required of the purchaser(s) at the time and place of sale. The deposit must be increased to 10% of the purchase price within two (2) business days, and delivered to the office of the Trustee in the same form as the initial deposit. The balance of the purchase price shall be due in cash or by certified check with interest on the unpaid balance of the purchase price at the rate of ten percent (10%) per annum from the date of sale to and including the date of settlement. In the event the Noteholder, or an affiliate thereof, is the successful bidder at the sale, such party will not be required to make a deposit or to pay interest on the unpaid purchase money. Taxes, water charges, ground rent, if any, and all other municipal charges and liens owed against the Property shall be the sole responsibility of the purchaser(s) and shall be paid for by the purchaser(s) at settlement. In addition, all other charges, expenses and liens owed against the Property including, but not limited to, all condominium fees and expenses and public charges and assessments owed against the Property and payable on an annual basis, such as sanitary and/or metropolitan district charges, if any, shall also be the responsibility of the purchaser(s) and shall be paid by the purchaser(s) at settlement. The Trustee reserves the right to reject any and all bids, and to extend the time for settlement, if applicable. In the event any taxes or other municipal charges have been prepaid, such amounts shall be adjusted as of the date of the foreclosure sale. The Property will be sold in an "AS IS" condition and without any warranties or representations, either express or implied, as to the nature, condition or description of the im-

PAGE 67 provements. In addition, the Property will also be sold subject to all existing housing, building and zoning code violations, and any receivership action arising therefrom, subject to all critical area and wetland violations, subject to all environmental problems and violations which may exist on or with respect to the Property, and subject to all matters and restrictions of record affecting the same, if any. The purchaser(s) at the foreclosure sale shall assume the risk of loss for the above-referenced Property immediately after the sale takes place. It shall be the purchaser(s)’ responsibility to obtain possession of the Property following ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland. The Property will be sold subject to all of the following that are not extinguished as a matter of law by the foreclosure sale: all easements, conditions, liens, restrictions, rights of redemption, covenants, encumbrances, ground rents, ground leases, such state of facts that an accurate survey or physical inspection of the Property might disclose, and agreements of record affecting the same, if any. The purchaser(s) shall pay all documentary stamps, state and local transfer taxes, recordation taxes and fees, title examination costs, attorneys’ fees, conveyance fees and all other incidental settlement costs. The purchaser(s) shall settle and comply with the sale terms within twenty (20) days following the final ratification of sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, unless said period is extended by the Trustee for good cause shown. Time is of the essence. In the event the purchaser(s) fails to go to settlement as required, in addition to any other legal or equitable remedies available, the Trustee may, without further order of the court, declare the aforementioned deposit forfeited and resell the Property at the purchaser’s sole risk and expense. In such event, the defaulting purchaser(s) shall be liable for the payment of any deficiency in the purchase price, all costs and expenses of both sales, reasonable attorneys’ fees, all other charges due, and incidental damages. The parties’ respective rights and obligations regarding the terms of sale and the conduct of the sale shall be governed by and interpreted according to the laws of the State of Maryland. If the Trustee is unable to convey the Property as described above, the purchaser(s)' sole remedy at law or in equity shall be limited to the refund of the aforementioned deposit, without interest thereon. Upon refund of the deposit to the purchaser(s), the sale shall be void and of no effect, and the purchaser(s) shall have no further claim against the Trustee or the Noteholder. The information contained herein was obtained from sources deemed to be reliable, but is offered for informational purposes only. The Auctioneer, the Noteholder and the Trustee do not make any representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy of this information. Hunter C. Piel,

PAGE 68 Trustee For further information, contact: Hunter C. Piel, Esquire Piel Law Firm, LLC 502 Washington Avenue, Suite 730 Towson, Maryland 21204 (410) 849-4888

OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices vention Center Lobby Floor Replacement) must be noted on the outside of the package. Late BID Documents will not be accepted. Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation. OCD-9/24/9t _________________________________

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B06-27 – Multi-Function Devices

BID SOLICITATION

The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking BID’s from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Multi-Function Devices and for said work to conform with the BID Documents. BID Documents for the MultiFunction Devices may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Leonard at dleonard@oceancitymd.gov, or by calling (410) 7236643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/ c/procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their BID’s. The Town is not responsible for the content of any BID Document received through any third-party service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed BID Documents. A Pre-BID Meeting will be held on TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10TH, 2026 AT 10:00AM EST, AT THE PROCUREMENT CONFERENCE ROOM, 214 65TH STREET, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842. The Last Day for Questions will be on TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24TH, 2026 AT 4:00PM EST. Addendum will be posted by close of business on MONDAY, DECEMBER 1ST, 2026. Sealed BID Documents are due no later than THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10TH, 2026, BY 4:00PM EST. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the PROCUREMENT CONFERENCE ROOM, ON FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11TH, 2026, AT 10:00AM EST. BID’s are to be submitted to the Mayor and City Council, Attention: Procurement Manager; 214 65th Street, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (MultiFunction Devices) must be noted on the outside of the package. Late BID Documents will not be accepted. Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation. Matt Perry, CMPO Procurement Manager Town of Ocean City, Maryland OCD-10/15/8t _________________________________

B05-27 – Ocean City Convention Center Lobby Floor Replacement The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking BID’s from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Ocean City Convention Center Lobby Floor Replacement and for said work to conform with the BID Documents. BID Documents for the Ocean City Convention Center Lobby Floor Replacement may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Leonard at dleonard@oceancitymd.gov, or by calling (410) 7236643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/ procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their BID’s. The Town is not responsible for the content of any BID Document received through any third-party service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed BID Documents. A Pre-BID Meeting will be held on TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3RD, 2026 AT 10:00AM EST, AT THE OCEAN CITY CONVENTION CENTER CONFERENCE ROOM, 4001 COASTAL HIGHWAY, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842. The Last Day for Questions will be on THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19TH, 2026 AT 4:00PM EST. Addendum will be posted by close of business on MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23RD, 2026. Sealed BID Documents are due no later than MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30TH, 2026, BY 10:00AM EST. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION, ON TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1ST, 2026, AT 1:00PM EST. BID’s are to be submitted to the Mayor and City Council, Attention: City Clerk; Room 230, 301 North Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (Ocean City Con-

PETER S. BUAS, ESQ. COASTAL LAW OFFICE, LLC 3509 COASTAL HWY. OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3334

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21225 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM WYTHE PEARSON Notice is given that Joseph W. Pearson, 2117 Capstone Cir., Herndon, VA 20170-5904, was on October 06, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of William Wythe Pearson who died on September 26, 2022, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 6th day of April, 2027. All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 6th day of April, 2027. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. Joseph W. Pearson 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: October 15, 2026 OCD-10/15/3t _________________________________ VICTORIA L. O'NEILL ESQ. AYRES JENKINS GORDY & ALMAND P A 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY SUITE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES ESTATE NO. 21305

OCTOBER 30, 2026 NOTICE IS GIVEN that the PROBATE court of COBB COUNTY, GA appointed GEORGE HARRISON DAVIS JR whose address is 204 HIGHLANDS RIDGE PL SE SMYRNA, GA 30082-7320 as the EXECUTOR of the Estate of THELMA TEMPLE DAVIS who died on OCTOBER 24, 2008 domiciled in GA, USA. The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is VICTORIA L O'NEILL whose address is 6200 COASTAL HWY STE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-6697. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: WORCESTER COUNTY, MD. 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-10/15/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21299 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MARIE HUNLEY KESSLER AKA: MARIE H. KESSLER Notice is given that William M. Kessler, 24695 Park View St., Millville, DE 19967-6837, was on October 07, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Marie Hunley Kessler who died on August 09, 2026, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 7th day of April, 2027. All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 7th day of April, 2027. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

OCTOBER 30, 2026 (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. William M. Kessler 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: October 15, 2026 OCD-10/15/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 21296 NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Orphans’ court of Delaware County, Pennsylvania appointed Chris Jones, 1901 Bradford Pl., Morton, PA 19070-1641 as the Administrator of the Estate of Anita M. Primo who died on December 29, 2025 domiciled in Pennsylvania, USA. The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is David Roberts, 306 W. Redwood St., Ste. 200, Baltimore, MD 21201-1708. 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. Chris Jones 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: October 15, 2026 OCD-10/15/3t _________________________________

PAGE 69

OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices

MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL

NOTICE

of Public Hearing Notice is hereby given that the Mayor and Town Council for the Town of Snow Hill Maryland will conduct a public hearing in accordance with the provisions of Snow Hill Town Code, Chapter 200 Zoning, Article XIV, §200-134 on: Tuesday, November 10, 2026 7:00PM Worcester County Government Center Meeting Room 1102 1 West Market Street Snow Hill, MD Case No. 260098. To request a zoning map amendment from M-1 Light Industrial to R-3 High Density Residential for the following property: Belt Street, Snow Hill MD, Tax Account: 02-022710. Map 0200, Grid 0017, Parcel 0691. The property to be rezoned consists of 1.53 acres (Parcel A) from an original parcel containing approximately 2.43 acres owned by ESP Holdings Corporation. For more information or to review information regarding this application, contact the Snow Hill Planning/Zoning/Building Department at 410-632-2080 ext. 104 or email codeofficial@snowhillmd.gov. OCD-10/22/2t _________________________________ B. RANDALL COATES ESQ COATES, COATES, & COATES 204 WEST GREEN STREET P.O. BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21310 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF TIMOTHY THEODORE DALE Notice is given that Denita Blake Dale, 7116 Scotland Rd., Snow Hill, MD 21863-2524, was on October 14, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Timothy Theodore Dale who died on March 03, 2026, without a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 14th day of April, 2027. All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 14th day of April, 2027. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned per-

sonal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. Denita Blake Dale 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: October 22, 2026 OCD-10/22/3t _________________________________ SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of JENNIE MARIE DAVIS, AKA: JENNIE M. PITTS DAVIS Estate No. 20382 Notice is given that THORNTON PITTS whose address is 7 KAUFFMAN LN., FRANKFORD, DE 19945 was on OCTOBER 13, 2026 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of JENNIE MARIE DAVIS who died on AUGUST 29, 2024 with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment 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 deliv-

ery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-10/22/1t _________________________________

MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL

NOTICE

of Public Hearing Notice is hereby given that the Mayor and Town Council for the Town of Snow Hill Maryland will conduct a public hearing in accordance with the provisions of Snow Hill Town Code, Chapter 200 Zoning, Article XIV, §200-134 on: Tuesday, November 10, 2026 7:00PM Worcester County Government Center Meeting Room 1102 1 West Market Street Snow Hill, MD Case No. 260004. (Item 1) To request a zoning map amendment from R-2 Medium Density Residential, to R-3 High Density Residential for the following property: 216 Belt Street, Snow Hill MD, Tax Account: 02-022745. Map 0200, Grid 0023, Parcel 0666 consisting of 3. 5 acres owned by Bergey Properties LLC. (Item 2) To request a zoning text amendment to §200-77 (I) to increase the maximum density permitted from eight dwelling units per acre to 14 dwelling units per acre. For more information or to review information regarding this application contact the Snow Hill Planning/Zoning/Building Department at 410-632-2080 ext. 104 or email codeofficial@snowhillmd.com OCD-10/22/2t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF PUBLIC HEARING BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS TOWN OF OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110 of the Code of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Zoning Ordinance for Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be conducted by the Board of Zoning Appeals for Ocean City, Maryland in the Council Chambers of City Hall located on Baltimore Avenue and Third Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on: Thursday, November 5, 2026

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OCTOBER 30, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices

AT 6:00 P.M. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an application related to Section 110-94(3)(a) has been filed to request (1) a special yard exception for a proposed dwelling to be built to the legally nonconforming 0.0-foot side yard setback; (2) a special yard exception for a proposed dwelling to be built to the legally nonconforming 3.2-foot front yard setback along Sand Dollar Lane; (3) a special yard exception for a proposed dwelling to be built to the legally nonconforming 3.0-foot and 3.2-foot front yard setbacks along Sinepuxent Avenue; and (4) a special yard exception for a proposed dwelling to be built to the legally nonconforming 3.0-foot front yard setback along Ravens Way. It is described as Lot 253 of the Sundowner Mobile Home Park Plat. It is further described as being located on the east side of Sinepuxent Avenue between Ravens Way and Sand Dollar Lane and is locally known as 13506 Sinepuxent Avenue, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. APPLICANT: JOHN STANTON (BZA 2754 #26-09400017) Further information concerning the public hearings may be examined in the office of the Department of Planning and Community Development in City Hall. Christopher Rudolf, Chairman Maureen Howarth, Attorney OCD-10/22/2t _________________________________ JAMES E. CLUBB, JR., ESQ. 108 N. 8TH STREET OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842 CLUB OCEAN VILLAS II TIMESHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. Plaintiff vs. ANTHONY AWKWARD et al. Defendants IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-26-000252

NOTICE

ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland this 20th day of October, 2026, that the foreclosure sale of the properties mentioned in these proceedings, made and reported by James E. Clubb, Jr., Trustee, be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before 23rd day of November, 2026, provided a copy of this order be inserted in some weekly newspaper printed in Worcester County, Maryland once in each of three successive weeks, before 16th day of November, 2026. The Report of Sale filed in the above case states the amount of the sales to be as indicated below for the referenced time-share intervals: Timeshare Wk 43, #189 Wk 18, #189 Wk 8, #189 Wk 11, #189 Wk 15, #189 Wk 48, #189 Wk 50, #189

Price $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00

Wk 13, #189 Wk 37, #189 Wk 9, #189 Wk 4, #189 Wk 38, #189 Wk 46, #189 Wk 51, #189 Wk 35, #276 Wk 35, #267 Wk 35, #246 Wk 35, #223 Wk 35, #269 Wk 35, #237 Wk 35, #245 Wk 35, #260 Wk 35, #239 Wk 35, #261 Wk 35, #259

$50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 Susan Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, Maryland True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-10/29/3t _________________________________ JAMES E. CLUBB, JR., ESQ. 108 N. 8TH STREET OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842 CLUB OCEAN VILLAS II TIMESHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. Plaintiff vs. RICHARD B. BARE THERESA DESAULNIERS BARE et al. Defendants IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND CASE-NO. C-23-CV-26-000249

NOTICE

ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland this 20th day of October, 2026, that the foreclosure sale of the properties mentioned in these proceedings, made and reported by James E. Clubb, Jr., Trustee, be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before 23rd day of November, 2026, provided a copy of this order be inserted in some weekly newspaper printed in Worcester County, Maryland once in each of three successive weeks, before 16th day of November, 2026. The Report of Sale filed in the above case states the amount of the sales to be as indicated below for the referenced time-share intervals: Timeshare Wk 24, #214 Wk 26, #248 Wk 25, #211 Wk 27, #258 Wk 24, #253 Wk 28, #265 Wk 25, #218 Wk 26, #244 Wk 24, #221 Wk 27, #196 Wk 26, #256 Wk 25, #276 Wk 27, #217 Wk 24, #260 Wk 25, #264 Wk 26, #218 Wk 27, #238 Wk 26, #216 Wk 25, #209

Price $500.00 $500.00 $500.00 $900.00 $400.00 $500.00 $500.00 $500.00 $500.00 $500.00 $500.00 $500.00 $500.00 $250.00 $.500.00 $500.00 $500.00 $500.00 $500.00

Wk 24, #276 Wk 23, #261 Wk 26, #209 Wk 24, #254 Wk 25, #215

$400.00 $500.00 $500.00 $400.00 $500.00 Susan Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, Maryland True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-10/29/3t _________________________________ JAMES E. CLUBB, JR., ESQ. 108 N. 8TH STREET OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842 CLUB OCEAN VILLAS II TIMESHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. Plaintiff vs. ELIZABETH R. BROWN THOMAS L. BROWN et al. Defendants IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-26-000245

NOTICE

ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland this 20th day of October, 2026, that the foreclosure sale of the properties mentioned in these proceedings, made and reported by James E. Clubb, Jr., Trustee, be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before 23rd day of November, 2026, provided a copy of this order be inserted in some weekly newspaper printed in Worcester County, Maryland once in each of three successive weeks, before 16th day of November, 2026. The Report of Sale filed in the above case states the amount of the sales to be as indicated below for the referenced time-share intervals: Timeshare Wk 21, #258 Wk 22, #244 Wk 22, #249 Wk 21, #265 Wk 22, #248 Wk 21, #263 Wk 21, #209 Wk 21, #216 Wk 22, #213 Wk 21, #239 Wk 21, #245 Wk 23, #257 Wk 22, #197 Wk 21, #269 Wk 21, #260 Wk 22, #196 Wk 21, #268 Wk 21, #193 Wk 22, #198 Wk 21, #247 Wk 21, #213 Wk 21, #224 Wk 23, #192 Wk 22, #212

Price $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $500.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $600.00 $50.00 Susan Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, Maryland Publish in the Ocean City Today True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD

OCD-10/29/3t _________________________________ JAMES E. CLUBB, JR., ESQ. 108 N. 8TH STREET OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842 CLUB OCEAN VILLAS II TIMESHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. Plaintiff vs. DIANE V. BROWN et al. Defendants IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-26-000251

NOTICE

ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland this 21st day of October, 2026, that the foreclosure sale of the properties mentioned in these proceedings, made and reported by James E. Clubb, Jr., Trustee, be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to tlie contrary thereof be shown on or before the 23rd day of November, 2026, provided a copy of this order be inserted in some weekly newspaper printed in Worcester County, Maryland once in each of three successive weeks, before the 16th day of November, 2026. The Report of Sale filed in the above case states the amount of the sales to be as indicated below for the referenced lime-share intervals: Price $50.00 $50.00 $500.00 $500.00 $1,500.00 $500.00 $700.00 $50.00 $500.00 $1,000.00 $50.00 $800.00 $500.00 $500.00 $300.00 $50.00 $500.00 $1,550.00 $1,000.00 $500.00 $500.00 $50.00 $50.00 $1,000.00 Susan Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, Maryland True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-10/29/3t _________________________________ Timeshare Wk 34, #238 Wk 34, #196 Wk 33, #254 Wk 33, #269 Wk 29, #192 Wk 33, #214 Wk 31, #256 Wk 34, #250 Wk 32, #242 Wk 32, #237 Wk 35, #189 Wk 30, #210 Wk 31, #266 Wk 33, #255 Wk 34, #255 Wk 34, #215 Wk 33, #257 Wk 30, #264 Wk 31, #242 Wk 32, #249 Wk 29, #266 Wk 35, #193 Wk 34, #251 Wk 29, #238

LEGAL ADVERTISING Call: 410-723-6397 Fax: 410-723-6511 or E-mail: legals@octodaydispatch.com

OCTOBER 30, 2026

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of THOMAS WALTER BUCKINGHAM Estate No. 21318 Notice is given that DONNA JEAN BUCKINGHAM whose address is 34738 PORT CT., DAGSBORO, DE 199393337 was on OCTOBER 16, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of THOMAS WALTER BUCKINGHAM who died on JULY 06, 2026 without a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 16th day of APRIL, 2027. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 16th day of APRIL, 2027. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-10/22/3t _________________________________ LAWRENCE J. MACKLIN 7515 STREAM CROSSING RD. BALTIMORE, MD 21209-5230

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 21302 NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Register of Will court of Berks County, Pennsylvania appointed (1) Kenneth C. Hatt, 751 W. Hoffecker Rd., Pottstown, PA 19465-7819 and (2) David W. Nally, 516 Elm St., Muhlenberg Reading, PA 19601-3306 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Gloria A. Hatt who died on April 20, 2026 domiciled in Pennsylvania, America. The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is (1) Lawrence J. Macklin, 7515 Stream Crossing Rd., Baltimore, MD 21209-5230 and (2)

OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices Lawrence J. Macklin, 7515 Stream Crossing Rd., Baltimore, MD 212095230. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: Worcester. All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred. (1) Kenneth C. Hatt (2) David W. Nally 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: October 22, 2026 OCD-10/22/3t _________________________________ AYRES JENKINS GORDY & ALMAND P.A. VICTORIA L. O’NEILL ESQ. 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY SUITE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 21323 NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Circuit Court of Fairfax County, Virginia appointed John Leo Tobin, III, 7103 Freshaire Dr., Springfield, VA 22153-1203 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Julie Ann Mostrom-Tobin who died on March 28, 2024 domiciled in Virgina, United States. The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is Victoria L. O’Neil, Esq., 6200 Coastal Hwy., Ste. 200, Ocean City, MD 21842-6697. 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. John Leo Tobin, III 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: October 29, 2026 OCD-10/29/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF PUBLIC HEARING WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS AGENDA THURSDAY November 12, 2026 Pursuant to the provisions of the Worcester County Zoning Ordinance, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held in-person before the Board of Zoning Appeals for Worcester County, in the Board Room (Room 1102) on the first floor of the Worcester County Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland. Audio and video recording will take place during this public hearing. 6:30 p.m. Case No. 26-63, on the lands of David Messick, requesting a variance to the front yard setback from 50 feet from the center of the right-of-way to 40.9 feet (an encroachment of 9.1 feet) for an existing front porch addition and proposed enclosure and roof top deck to this addition in the R-4 General Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1208(b)(2), ZS 305(b)(1), located at 12848 Harbor Rd, Tax Map 27, Parcel 404, Lot 4, in the Tenth Tax District of Worcester County, Maryland. Case No. 26-66, on the lands of Janice Toboll, requesting an after the fact variance to the Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area Buffer from 100 feet to 30 feet (an encroachment of 70 feet) for a 4’ high fence in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(4) and ZS 1-206(b)(2) and Natural Resources Code §§ NR 3104(d)(4) and NR 3-111, located at 12347 Hidden Bay Dr, Tax Map 33, Parcel 281, Lot 32, in the Tenth Tax District of Worcester County, Maryland. 6:40 p.m. Readvertisement of Case No. 26-64, on the application of Donald Hall, on the lands of Hall Rentals LLC, requesting a variance to the front yard setback from 50 feet from the center of the right-of-way to 40 feet (an encroachment of 10 feet) and a variance to the side yard setback from 6 feet to 3.5 feet (an encroachment of 2.5 feet) for a proposed first and second floor front porch in the R-4 General Residential District, Pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-208(b)(2), ZS1305(b)(1) located at 12842 Harbor Rd, Tax Map 27, Parcel 402, Block C, Lot 2 in the Tenth Tax District of Worcester County, Maryland. 6:45 p.m. Case No. 26-69, on the lands of Ocean Enterprise 589 LLC, requesting a special exception to re-

PAGE 71 place the elevated water storage tank “water tower” and a special exception for a water treatment building, in the A-2 Agricultural District, Pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(3), ZS 1-202 (c)(34), ZS 1-328, located at 10218 Racetrack Rd, Tax Map 21. Parcel 99, in the Third Tax District of Worcester County, Maryland. 6:50 p.m. Case No. 26-70, on the application of Hugh Cropper IV, on the lands of Stephen & Sandra Hadley, requesting a variance to the rear yard setback from 30 feet to 20.44 feet (an encroachment of 9.56 feet) for a proposed 1st, 2nd. & 3rd floor covered porch and single-family dwelling in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, Pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS1-116(c)(4), ZS 1206(b)(2), and ZS 1-305, located at 12334 Snug Harbor Rd, Tax Map 33, Parcel 346, Lot 25, in the Tenth Tax District of Worcester County, Maryland. 6:55 p.m. Case No. 26-71, on the application of Blair Carey/RBR Homes, on the lands of Rhonda and Clayton Hathaway, requesting a variance to the rear yard setback from 30 feet to 15.9 feet (an encroachment 14.1 feet) for a proposed pool, a variance to the rear yard setback from 30 feet to 20.4 feet (an encroachment 9.6 feet) for a proposed landing with stairs, request to enclose previously approved open covered porches in the rear yard setback in the R-3 Multi-family Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4) and (7), 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. OCD-10/29/2t _________________________________

Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland

PROPOSAL SOLICITATION

P04-27 – Ocean City Convention Center Guest-Client Network Services The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Ocean City Convention Center Guest-Client Network Services and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents. Proposal Documents for the Ocean City Convention Center Guest-Client Network Services 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

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OCTOBER 30, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices

are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their Proposals. The Town is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any third-party service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents. A Pre-Proposal Meeting is not applicable for this Request for Proposal. Vendors interested in site survey(s) or those with Request(s) for Information, may submit such requests formally in writing to the Procurement Manager, who shall review each request on a case-by-case basis. The Last Day for Questions will be on FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13TH, 2026, AT 4:00PM EST. Addendum will be posted by close of business on WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18TH, 2026. Sealed Proposal Documents are due no later than THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3RD, 2026, BY 4:00PM EST. Proposal submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the PROCUREMENT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, ON FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4TH, 2026, AT 1:00PM EST. Proposals are to be submitted to the Procurement Office located at 214 65th Street, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (P04-27 – Ocean City Convention Center Guest-Client Network Services) must be noted on the outside of the package. Late Proposal Documents will not be accepted. Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation. OCD-10/29/5t _________________________________ SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21311 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF GERALDINE M. WATKINS AKA: GERALDINE MARIE WATKINS Notice is given that Robert William Watkins Jr., 11331 Bell Rd., Whaleyville, MD 21872-2089, was on October 20, 2026 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Geraldine M. Watkins who died on October 02, 2026, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment 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 repre-

sentative 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. Robert William Watkins Jr. 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: October 29, 2026 OCD-10/29/1t _________________________________

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, November 12, 2:00 PM PW 26-055 A request has been

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Worcester County FY 2027 Requested Enterprise Funds Operating Budget Amendment The Worcester County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing to receive comments on the proposed FY 2027 Enterprise Funds Operating Budget Amendment on: Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. in the County Commissioners’ Meeting Room Room 1101 Government Center, One West Market Street Snow Hill, Maryland 21863 The proposed budget amendment is in response to a non-budgeted capital project requested for the West Ocean City Service Area to be covered by reserves. For additional information please visit the County Treasurer’s Office in Room 1105 of the County Government Center in Snow Hill or online at www.worcestermd.gov. WORCESTER COUNTY 2027 REQUESTED ENTERPRISE FUNDS OPERATING BUDGET AMENDMENT Increase in the following expense line item: • 580.9010.080 Capital Equipment $ 693,400 Increase in the following revenue line item: • 580.5975.100 Transfers From (To) Reserves $ 693,400 OCD-10/29/1t ____________________________________________________________________ submitted to install 40’ of replacement vinyl bulkheading using a batter pile system; Install a new 5’ x 40’ parallel platform, 4 new pilings to re -install an existing boat lift, maximum new channelward 6’6”. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 700 GULF STREAM DR Parcel # 8020A1511B- in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. OWNER: Frank Meekins APPLICANT: Martin’s Construction, C/O Erin Rogers PW 26-056 A request has been submitted to install 40’ of replacement vinyl bulkheading using a batter pile system and to re-connect an existing pier to bulkhead, maximum channelward extension of 6’6”. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 702 GULF STREAM DR Parcel # 8020A1512B- in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. OWNER: Michael Tucker APPLICANT: Martin’s Construction, C/O Erin Rogers PW 26-057 A request has been submitted to install one boat lift with associated pilings, maximum channelward extension 24’6”. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 427 14TH ST UNIT 108 Parcel # 3486 -

08 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. OWNER: Andrew Dripps APPLICANT: Kayla Lewis PW 26-058 A request has been submitted to install 158’ of replacement vinyl bulkheading using a batter pile system and to construct a 5’ x 40 parallel platform. Construct a 40’ x 6’ pier and install one boatlift with associated pilings including two additional mooring piles, maximum channelward extension 40’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 118 SEA LN Parcel # 8020A-1430B-in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. OWNER: Timothy Green APPLICANT: Martin’s Construction, LLC PW 26-059 A request has been submitted to install 40’ of replacement vinyl bulkhead; replace existing in-kind platform and boatlifts; and to install a new PWC lift 9’ maximum channelward extension. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 712 GULF STREAM DR Parcel # 8020A1517B- in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. OWNER: Frank Sokola APPLICANT: Martin’s Construction, LLC OCD-10/29/2t _________________________________

OCEAN CITY TODAY

Legal Advertising Call Pamela Green 410-723-6397, Fax: 410-723-6511 or E-mail: legals@octodaydispatch.com

OC Today-Dispatch

’ s g n Incl i h t ud y r Ev T Th he — e ve — Even

PAGE 73

OCTOBER 30, 2026

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OC Today-Dispatch

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OCTOBER 30, 2026

Trimper’s Haunted House continues to evolve By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Oct. 30, 2026) A lantern-lit catacomb, a zombie horde, a woman being sawed in half – these scenes of macabre horror await riders around the pitchblack hairpin turns of Trimper’s Haunted House, an icon of the Ocean City Boardwalk. Many of the ride’s best-loved elements date to its 1964 opening. But that doesn't mean the couple who runs the place wants things to stay the same. "We would go crazy if nothing changed,” said Stephanie Lewis, 64, president of Trimper Amusements, whose husband, Brian Lewis, 62, manages the Haunted House. Behind the screams – er, scenes – of this venerable attraction, the Lewises preserve decades-old mechanical tricks while dreaming up homemade illusions and modern horror references for casual riders and devoted superfans alike. “If you take something out, everybody is furious. But then, you can't keep people's interest,” Stephanie said. “The ride kind of became a museum, where the super fans loved it, but the general public – you know, ‘oh, we've already done that.’ And so, we try to add things.” She said they take inspiration from the man who designed the Haunted House: Bill Tracy, who earned fame in the 1960s and ‘70s as a master creator of “dark rides” and attractions. The Trimper name was already synonymous with Boardwalk amusements when Stephanie’s father, Granville, commissioned Tracy’s one-story Haunted House in 1964. She said her great-uncle Dan Trimper chided her father for building the ride, calling it

“Granville’s Folly,” and questioning who would want to ride through a scary house in summertime. “Dad was so dreading it being a failure – and then, when it opened, it had lines,” she said, gesturing to an invisible queue. Granville died in 2008 at age 79. “I have such pride because it was my father's. This was his pride and joy. He built it stick by stick. We're gonna protect it and make him proud. Hopefully, he's looking.” Stephanie still has Bill Tracy’s original handdrawn blueprints in a file, yellowed with age, but still clearly marked with locations where riders would encounter spooky gags, called tricks. Nine of the 11 original tricks, including the buzz-sawed woman and a putrid, gurgling toilet with a hand reaching out of the bowl, are still in operation. One original trick, known as the Knit Wit, is a gray-haired knitter in a rocking chair who spins to reveal a skeletal face. Stephanie said it was inspired by the 1960 film Psycho, which Tracy was “obsessed” with. “People are like, ‘why would you add modern stuff?’” Stephanie said. “We decided Bill Tracy would probably like easter eggs, as an homage to horror movies.” To that end, they’ve added the haunted doll Annabelle, the puzzle maestro Jigsaw, and a Carrie-inspired hand emerging from a grave, for those who know where to look along the route. Stephanie sometimes hears that the Trimper Haunted House was influenced by the Haunted Mansion ride at Disneyland. Not so, she says: Ocean City had its haunted ride five years before Disney.

BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Trimper Amusements President Stephanie Lewis and her husband, Brian Lewis, are pictured in front of Trimper’s Haunted House, a beloved Boardwalk attraction.

"Actually,” she said, “we like to say Walt copied us." It takes a lot of work to maintain the 62-yearold ride and its inner workings. Brian Lewis said he’ll end up replacing about 100 tires each summer on the ride’s 11 motorized cars, eight of which are original, because the rubber sidewalls wear down from braking.

The VOICE OF DEMOCRACY As I ponder in darkness and solitude, to dream in my unconscious mood, as I make myself not as a PERSON, but as a VOICE… To tell you, it is not time to REJOICE. RACE prejudice must be banished. This marks us as ignorant and is outlandish. Propaganda concealment must be destroyed Before REAL TRUTH can be enjoyed. SELF-JUSTIFICATION and saving face may be right But taking advantage of DEMOCRACY, This I shall ﬁght. Honor and loyalty….Truth and mortality…Cannot withstand without tranquility… If lost between citizens’ disability. Understanding must be spread, Teach them to share DEMOCRACY’S Bread. Trust a great deal more, You will ﬁnd that is the very core. Love with DEMOCRACY’S SOUL used as your journal. Courage to endure suffrage and pain, DEMOCRACY in your heart…will still remain. Wisdom to amend your mistakes…From PAST to PRESENT, as DEMOCRACY cultivates. So, remember…AS YOU ponder in darkness and solitude… to dream in DEMOCRACY’s unconscious mood… Remember, as you place yourself…not as a PERSON…but as a VOICE. To tell the WORLD…DEMOCRACY…is the reason you REJOICE. GOD BLESS AMERICA…THE LAND OF THE FREE. MAY IT ALWAYS BE SO…FOR YOU AND ME!!! Original Calligrapher Monica Rae Murphy Written by Mary Ruth Greenwell, at age 17, in Honor of her brother, James S. Dodds. This was the poem he LIKED THE BEST. Given to his son September 25, 2026, with love…Aunt Mary Ruth

OCTOBER 30, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 75

Attraction open this weekend The gimmick is that riders travel through the nightmarish house in wooden cars designed to resemble a four-poster bed, gliding along a metal track for the five-minute ride. Brian also bounces between several maintenance rooms hidden behind false walls, where tools, electronics, and an assortment of drive belts keep the nightmares running. There’s a lot to tend to: electric motors, compressed-air lines for air bursts, plumbing for running water, and surveillance cameras. Between tricks, trapdoors provide shortcuts. Vandalism adds to the upkeep. Some riders have been known to tear off chunks of set pieces, or yank fingers off foam ghouls, leaving the Lewises to patch up the monsters. While some parents offer to pay damages, “we don’t want money,” Stephanie said. “We want it not to be destroyed.” Then there’s “the gum door.” For decades, riders have stuck their chewing gum to the swinging doors that bring cars back inside from the exterior balcony. Someone has to scrape it off. Along with maintaining the old tricks, Brian takes pride in building new ones, learning from online tutorials rather than buying complete effects from trade show vendors. “Before we’d just go pay lots of money for a trick, and it comes in a box. You put it over there,” he said. “But now I’ve gone to classes and YouTube and all, and I program my own tricks.” Brian arrived at Trimper’s as a summer employee in 1982. He and Stephanie didn’t meet until 1985, when she was working in the office. At first, she said her parents didn’t like him – they’d pictured her courting a doctor or lawyer. Today, they’ve been married for 39 years and have four grown children, two of whom regularly pitch in with the Haunted House and its ongoing designs. “He was funny, he’s a hard worker, and he fit right in,” she said of her husband. “When you work this job, you can’t date other people because you’re here all the time. It’s gotta be somebody who likes the amusement park life.” When the ride reopened after the COVID-19 pandemic, they made another big change: adding live actors to the ride route. About five or six trusted hands circulate in the darkness, including a friend who dresses as Pennywise the Clown. Brian himself plays the masked Michael Myers, who is now a fan favorite. Stephanie said while they “live Halloween all summer long,” the Oct. 31 holiday itself marks the end of their season. The ride will open at noon Saturday and Sunday before closing for the winter. “For a lot of our fans, it's their fa-

vorite day, and they associate us with it, so we try to be open so that they get a taste," she said. One of Stephanie’s earliest memories of the Haunted House is hiding behind doors at age 4 or 5, watching riders get spooked. In elementary school, her father tasked her with selling 35-cent tickets, and friends used to play jacks with her while she waited for customers. Today, admission costs $8.50. But the Haunted House still gives customers perforated paper tickets, just like when she was a girl, torn in half upon entry. “That's another thing we do nostalgic: We still sell the same red ticket, and you buy it, and you come in, and you hand it. ‘Cause a lot of people are like, ‘well, how come you don't just scan us or something?’ Well, that's not us. This is us.”

BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Nine of the 11 original tricks included in Trimper’s Haunted House are still in operation today. Other spooky gags have been added throughout the decades.

H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H

THANK YOU DONALD J. TRUMP FOR SPEAKING FOR DEMOCRACY God Bless America H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H “In the end I believe my generation will surprise everyone. We already know both political parties are playing both sides from the middle and we’ll elect a true outsider when we fully mature. I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s not a business tycoon who can’t be bought and who does what’s right for the people. Someone like Donald Trump as crazy as that sounds.” ~Kurt Cobain, 1993 Paid for by Mary Ruth Greenwell Adams Clagett Odachowski

H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H

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OCTOBER 30, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

Harris leads Schwartz in overall fundraising Democratic challenger saw more money in 3rd quarter for Congressional election By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Oct. 30, 2026) The latest federal campaign finance reports show congressional hopeful Dan Schwartz outraised incumbent Andy Harris during the third quarter – but Harris finished September with more than 12 times as much cash on hand. With both campaigns rolling into the home stretch ahead of Election Day on Tuesday, Schwartz reported raising $441,234 between July 1 and Sept. 30, compared with Harris’s $316,703, according to quarterly Federal Election Commission filings. Schwartz, 38, a Democrat, is a former financial regulator who’s been campaigning for 18 months to win the 1st Congressional District seat. He is challenging Harris, 69, an eight-term Republican incumbent and retired anesthesiologist. Schwartz reported total disbursements of $408,163 and ended with $106,469 in the bank as of Sept. 30.

Records show individual donors supplied nearly all Schwartz’s third-quarter contributions, about 97.6%. His campaign reported $27,477 in debt. Despite raising almost $125,000 less than his opponent, Rep. Harris ended September with $1.34 million in cash on hand and zero debt, records show. That reserve gave his campaign greater financial flexibility heading into Election Day to pay for advertising and support other Republican candidates. Records show the Harris campaign reported total disbursements of $842,995 in the third quarter, including $397,500 for media buys, $40,911 for polling, and $54,645 for digital marketing and consulting. The Harris campaign also gave $100,000 each to the Maryland Republican State Central Committee and the National Republican Congressional Committee. Other donations included $6,000 to the campaign of gubernatorial candidate Dan Cox and $4,000 each for the campaigns of state Sen. Mary Beth Carozza and House of Delegates candidate C.L. Marshall, records show.

The Schwartz campaign reported no contributions to other candidates’ campaigns during the quarter, though it reported a $6,697 repayment of a loan from Schwartz himself, records show. Expenditures for the Schwartz campaign included $105,456 to Management Personnel Xchange, a campaign staffing and payroll company that serves Democratic Party and progressive campaigns. Schwartz reported single $3,500 Q3 contributions from 10 individuals. Harris reported seven $3,500 contributions directly to his campaign and another attributed through the Andy Harris Victory Fund, a separate fundraising entity. Federal election law says individual donors can’t give more than $3,500 per candidate, per election. Both campaigns also reported donor money collected after the quarterly deadline: Since Oct. 15, Schwartz’s campaign has disclosed an additional $37,500 in contributions, while Harris’s campaign reported another $24,500. For Schwartz, that included $1,000 from Harry Dunn's Democracy Defenders, a political action

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OCTOBER 30, 2026

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Berlin Council approves 2027 event lineups Jazz Bash, Bathtub Races, Pig Roast, Vintage and Vinyl and more returning next yr. By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Oct. 30, 2026) Classic Berlin gettogethers like the Bathtub Races, the Peach Festival, and the Christmas Parade are returning to town in 2027, now that the Town Council approved several event calendars this week. At Monday night’s meeting, the Berlin Town Council approved 2027 event schedules for the Berlin Chamber of Commerce, the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum, and the town’s Main Street and Arts and Entertainment District. The chamber will kick off its 2027 events lineup with its Spring Celebration on March 27, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Classic cars and hot rods will then roll into town for Spring Cruisers on May 1. Per the calendar approved this week, the vintage car show will start at 8 a.m. and wrap up around 2 p.m. The chamber will once again host “Jazz and Blues” after taking a hiatus in 2026. Jazz and Blues, set for May 22, will feature live jazz performances along Main Street. The Bathtub Races have been set for June 11 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The

Bathtub Races are a longtime Berlin tradition drawing thousands of spectators a year, where local businesses and individuals race custom-built bathtub inspired vehicles down Main Street. The Chile Pepper Festival, featuring spicy products from hot sauce to salsa, will occur on Aug. 14 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. If the weather is uncooperative on that day, the Chile Pepper Festival will move to Aug. 21. The chamber’s fall events include the Fiddler’s Convention on Friday, Sept. 17, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Saturday, Sept. 18, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Fall Cruisers on Oct. 9 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Rain dates for the Fiddler’s Convention have been set for Friday, Sept. 24 and Saturday, Sept. 25. Alcohol will be available at Jazz and Blues, the Chile Pepper Festival, and the Fiddler’s Convention. Berlin Chamber of Commerce President David Fitzgerald asked the mayor and Town Council whether certain events, like Jazz and Blues, could have a set-in-stone date. That would give the organization time to secure entertainment. He noted that his team could book acts in advance to avoid scrambling in the months leading up to the festival. “As these bands come off the stage, they ask, ‘Can you book us for next year?’” Fitzgerald said. “It would be

nice to have some standing dates ... That would help us greatly in getting entertainment.” Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall said the municipality would be open to Fitzgerald’s suggestion. The council also approved the Taylor House’s 2027 events lineup. Functions include the Pig Roast on April 17 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., Tindley Day on July 7 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., the Peach Festival on Aug. 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and the Book Festival on Oct. 16 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Additionally, the museum will host live music on the lawn the second Sunday of each month during the summer. These events, called 2nd Sunday at the Museum, are scheduled for June 13, July 11, Aug. 8, and Sept. 12. The concerts will kick off at 6 p.m. and wrap up around 7:30 p.m. Alcohol will be for sale at the Pig Roast, the 2nd Sundays, and the Book Festival. The Town of Berlin approved its event schedule this week. Berlin Restaurant Week is set for Jan. 18 to Jan. 24; the Berlin Community Yard Sale is scheduled for April 3; Berlin Vintage and Vinyl is scheduled for April 17; Memorial Day at the Monument is scheduled for May 30; the Memorial Day Parade is scheduled for May 31; and National Night Out is

scheduled for Aug. 3. The town’s 2027 fall and winter events include Oktoberfest on Oct. 16, Truck-N-Treat on Oct. 30, Ice Ice Berlin and the Christmas Tree Lighting on Nov. 26, the Christmas Parade on Dec. 2 (with a rain date of Dec. 9), Berlin’s Hanukkah Celebration on Dec. 30, and a New Year’s Eve event on Dec. 31. Berlin’s Independence Day fireworks display is also returning in 2027 on July 3. Berlin Economic and Community Development Director Ivy Wells said that because July 3 falls on a Saturday next year, the illumination show’s cost went up. Still, she is working to find ways to help the town with the extra expense. During budget talks, funding for the pyrotechnics was cut ahead of the 2026 show. However, the money was reinstated, and this year’s event went off as municipality officials wanted to commemorate the United States’ 250th anniversary. Additionally, a portion of the event cost was already paid. Council Vice President Jack Orris noted this week that funding for the July 3 fireworks is spread over two fiscal years. Wells maintained that she will return to the Town Council during the budget-creation process with the show’s price tag.

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OCTOBER 30, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

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Berlin OKs bond package, replacement of water pipes By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Oct. 29, 2026) The Town of Berlin continued to move ahead with its lead pipe water line replacement project this week, approving a bond ordinance for work along William Street and accepting a separate $1.8 million funding package to replace lead lines along North and South Main streets. During Monday night’s Town Council meeting, officials held a public hearing and unanimously approved an ordinance establishing the parameters for issuing general obligation bonds to finance Phase 1A of a project to remove lead from drinking water lines. The council also unanimously approved a funding package from the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) for Phase 2. The Phase 1A bond ordinance establishes the terms under which the municipality can issue general obligation bonds to finance, reimburse, or refinance eligible project costs. It also pledges the town’s full faith and credit, including its taxing power, toward repayment of the bonds. Finance Director Natalie Saleh said the ordinance establishes the parameters for the town to proceed with

the bonds. Asked when principal forgiveness would take effect, Saleh said additional details would be available once the town reaches settlement. The Phase 1A project involves approximately $2.28 million in financing, including about $1.28 million in expected principal forgiveness. Earlier this month, the town approved a motion and resolution allowing it to proceed with Maryland Water Infrastructure Financing Administration funding for the work. Additionally, officials addressed the project’s requirements. Engineer Nick Bradley of Davis, Bowen & Friedel, Inc. said municipalities must replace approximately 3% to 5% of their lead service lines annually, with the work completed by 2037. Following the public hearing and discussion, the council unanimously approved the Phase 1A bond ordinance. Separately, the council unanimously approved an MDE funding package totaling $1,838,350 for Phase 2 of the lead service line replacement project. According to an Oct. 13 letter from Davis, Bowen & Friedel, the package offers 100% principal forgiveness. See NEW Page 80

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PAGE 79

REAL ESTATE REPORT

New laws worth noting on rentals By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer (Oct. 30, 2026) Maryland REALTORS® published this year’s host of Maryland laws impacting real estate that went into effect October 1, 2026. A list of important items are noted below: HB 573 Fair Housing and Housing Discrimination – Regulations Updates Maryland housing discrimination law to include “disparate impact” standards as currently found in federal affirmatively furthering fair housing rules (AFFH). It bans practices that have a discriminatory effect while still allowing practices that serve a substantial, legitimate, nondiscriminatory purpose and where no less discriminatory alternative is available. The Maryland Commission on Civil Rights will enforce these standards. SB 82 Counterfeiting and Possession of Counterfeit Lease of Real Property A person may not counterfeit or assist in counterfeiting a residential lease or rental agreement. Violators are guilty of a felony, punishable by

imprisonment for up to 10 years and/or a $1,000 maximum fine. SB 335/HB 315 Discrimination in Housing - Income-Based Housing Subsidies Prohibits landlords who use financial screening as part of a rental application from refusing to rent based on the prospective tenant’s credit score, lack of credit score, or adverse credit history when that tenant uses income-based housing subsidies. Landlords may verify a tenant’s ability to pay their share of rent not covered by the subsidy and may use references or tenant’s past rental history as reasons to refuse to rent. Landlords who own six or more rental units must provide tenants with the option to report positive rental payment history to a consumer reporting agency. SB 937 Tenant Criminal History Records (Maryland Fair Chance Housing Act) Prohibits a landlord of five or more residential rental units from requiring drug or alcohol tests or access to substance use treatment records from applicants. If a landlord conducts a criminal history records check, the landlord must do so for every prospective tenant and provide

upfront written notice explaining how criminal history will be used. Before making a conditional offer, landlords generally cannot ask about criminal history, with limited exceptions for certain serious and felony offenses. After a conditional offer, landlords may conduct a background check and can withdraw the offer only for a legitimate, nondiscriminatory reason, with written explanation. Applicants must be allowed to challenge inaccuracies and provide evidence of rehabilitation or mitigating factors, which landlords are required to consider. SB 12 Residential Rental Apartments - Air-Conditioning Requirement Landlords of apartment buildings with 10 or more units must provide air conditioning capable of maintaining 80°F or lower from June 1 through September 30 each year. This applies to existing buildings that undergo complete or substantial renovation of electrical systems after the effective date, but excludes properties on the National Register of Historic Places or work that was permitted before June 1, 2026. Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record for Keller Williams Realty Delmarva in Ocean City.

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PAGE 80

OCTOBER 30, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

New water lines for Main Street

BUSINESS BRIEFS

New office opens (Oct. 30, 2026) The Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore (CFES) has announced the opening of a second office at 11029 Racetrack Road in Ocean Pines. A ribbon cutting was held Oct 15. Located in an annex of the First Shore Federal S&L Association building, the new office provides CFES a greater presence in the eastern portion of its three-county service area (Wicomico, Worcester and Somerset) and offers its donors, nonprofit leaders and community partners more convenient access to the Foundation’s philanthropic expertise. “Being responsive means being accessible and available,” said Erica Joseph, CFES President. “Worcester County is an important part of that, and this new office allows us to be Continued on Page 81

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Front row of photo (holding Ribbon) from right to left: Diane Turner, First Shore Federal CEO; Dan O'Connell, CFES Board Chair; Erica Joseph, CFES President; Senator Mary Beth Carozza; Gayle Widdoson, CFES Board Member; Melissa Lentz, Worcester Chamber Ambassador.

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Continued from Page 78 The amount matches the full sum Berlin requested in an application submitted in January 2025. Phase 2 will replace lead lines along North and South Main streets, both Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) roads. Officials said prioritizing those streets would allow the town to replace the lines before SHA repaves them. Bradley explained that the MDE funding became available after the money previously allocated to another project fell through. Because of the time that has passed since the application was submitted, Tyndall said the town could have a hard time obtaining bids within the funding available. “We might struggle to get bids within that scope, but we are certainly going to try,” he said. Bradley said Berlin initially submitted a funding application in 2023 for work along William, Broad, and Bay streets. The town prioritized the three SHA roads to coordinate planned paving projects. In 2024, the town received its original funding, but federal guidelines prohibited the initial approach of replacing service lines only between the water main and water meter, delaying the process. In January 2025, the town had submitted a funding application for Phase 2 and prepared to bid the original Phase 1 project. However, the first bidding attempt produced no bids, Bradley said. The town then worked with state officials to divide the original project into smaller components. Phase 1A covers William Street, while Phase 1B will address Broad and Bay streets. Bradley said Phase 1B is ready to go out to bid once the town renews its permits, but funding has not yet been approved. The town also has a third phase in the developmental stage that would involve Flower Street. Bradley said the project remains in its infancy. Officials expect to have more information after the holidays.

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PAGE 81

OC Today-Dispatch

Halloween Fall Festival in Ocean By Tara Fischer (MCT) platforms are outdated and workforce could help offset the expense. Staff Writer limit officers’ ability to share inforAccording to Drewer, the initial Pines tomorrow (Oct. 29, 2026) The Town of Berlin mation with neighboring agencies. cost of implementing the system is

Berlin to buy new police software

is financially backing a new police department system meant to streamline cross-agency collaboration and improve communication methods. At its meeting Monday night, the Town Council approved the purchase of a software platform costing $50,563 that will allow Berlin police to share information more efficiently with other law enforcement agencies and interact directly with Worcester County’s 911 dispatch system. Police Chief Howard Drewer told officials that the department’s current computer-aided dispatch (CAD), records management system (RMS), and mobile computer terminal

The department applied for an Edward J. Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant to cover the upgraded system but was not selected for funding. The Town of Berlin has agreed to finance the project recognizing the modern technology’s importance in keeping the public protected. Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall said the purchase was not included in the town’s budget, but municipality officials believe they can absorb some of the cost through the general fund. “We’ll probably have to monitor where our expenditures are at the end of the year,” Tyndall said. He added that vacancies in the town’s

approximately $50,000, with annual operating expenses of about $21,000 for the first three years. The department plans to join CentralSquare, a software platform already used by the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office, the Ocean City Police Department, and the Ocean Pines Police Department. By joining the regional system, Berlin would be able to share information directly with those agencies and make requests through their dispatch platforms. Drewer said the department’s existing software does not adequately connect its dispatch and records management funcSee DISPATCHER Page 82

(Oct. 30, 2026) Ocean Pines Recreation & Parks will hold its annual Halloween Fall Festival at White Horse Park on Saturday, Oct. 31, from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Perfect for the whole family, the festival will feature carnival games, face painting, hayrides, and costume contests. Refreshments will be available for purchase. Admission is free and open to the public. For more information or for volunteer information, contact Ocean Pines Recreation and Parks at 410641-7052 or email ddonahue@oceanpines.org.

Eastern Shore website at CFES.org.

placement (2025-2027), and maintained its Five-Star Rating for outstanding performance in the treatment of Coronary Interventional Procedures for a second year (2026-2027). New this year, the hospital received FiveStar Ratings for outstanding performance in the treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and heart attacks. In Berlin, TidalHealth Atlantic re-

ceived a Five-Star Rating for outstanding performance in the treatment of Gallbladder Removal Surgery. “These recognitions reflect our ongoing commitment to providing exceptional heart, lung, surgical and vascular care,” said CEO Steve Leonard. “For our patients and the communities we serve, these honors reinforce our focus on what matters most: high-quality care they can count on close to home.”

BUSINESS BRIEFS Continued from Page 80 closer to the people and organizations we assist. It’s an expanded opportunity to build relationships and help our donors make meaningful differences in their communities.” The new office will start witha modified schedule, opening Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Ocean Pines office is the next step in CFES’s continued growth and its commitment to being responsive to the evolving needs of Lower Shore donors, nonprofit leaders, and community partners. Since 1984, it has served as the Lower Shore’s local philanthropic expert, helping individuals, families and businesses turn their charitable goals into lasting community impact. It recently distributed a record $346,263 in grant funding to 47 area nonprofits through its annual Community Needs grant cycle. “It’s important to be where our donors are, where our nonprofit partners are and where conversations about growing the wellbeing of our communities are happening,” Joseph said. To learn more about donor services, legacy planning, and establishing or supporting the Lower Shore, visit the Community Foundation of the

Hospital awarded The Healthgrades 2027 Star Report of hospital achievements shows TidalHealth is again rated among the nation’s best health systems in several clinical services. TidalHealth announced it has earned numerous accolades for clinical excellence from Healthgrades, the #1 site Americans use to find a doctor or hospital. TidalHealth Peninsula Regional is again One of America’s 50 Best Hospitals for Vascular Surgery. This is the thirteenth consecutive year earning that recognition (2015-2027). The vascular team also maintained the Healthgrades Vascular Surgery Excellence Award for a thirteenth consecutive year (2015-2027), placing it again among the Top 5% in the Nation for Vascular Surgery (2025-2027). The Salisbury hospital also holds several Five-Star Ratings for clinical excellence. For the seventeenth consecutive year, the hospital has received a Five-Star Rating for Carotid Procedures (2011-2027). For the third year, the hospital received a Five-Star Rating for Outpatient Total Knee Re-

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OC Today-Dispatch

OCTOBER 30, 2026

Firefighter parade confirms return to Berlin By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Oct. 30, 2026) The Maryland State Firefighter's Association is bringing its annual fire company parade back to Berlin after what organizers say was a successful first year. This past June, fire departments from across Maryland flocked to downtown Berlin for the MSFA parade. The companies traveled through town on fire trucks and fire prevention floats to celebrate the state’s first responders. With Berlin Town Council approval this week, the firefighters parade will return next year on Saturday, June 19. This date coincides with association’s annual week-long convention in Ocean City. Like the convention, the firefighter parade used to be held in Ocean City every year. However, in 2026, the pro-

cession moved to Berlin to encourage additional fire company participation. MSFA Convention and Conference Chair Robbie Blackiston said that while every Maryland company is invited, attendance has declined significantly over the past five years. Blackiston added the event used to run for roughly four hours, but the 2025 event lasted only 55 minutes. Organizers said the reduced turnout was due to the parade being held on a Wednesday in June, when firefighters couldn't take time off work during the week. MSFA initially asked Ocean City to move the parade to a weekend, but the resort declined, citing logistical issues with the start of the tourist season. As a result, Berlin was selected as the new venue in January, and the parade was held on Saturday, June 20. STEVE GREEN/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

NOTICE OF ELECTION TOWN OF OCEAN CITY 2026 MUNICIPAL ELECTION

The Town of Ocean City is holding the Municipal Election in conjunction with the Gubernatorial Election. Registered Ocean City voters are able to vote in both elections at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The Municipal Election will be held in Hall A; the Gubernatorial Election will be held in Hall B. Voters must sign in at both the municipal and the federal/state registration desks that day. Free bus service is offered for all users on Election Day. The no-fare policy for buses and ADA service will be in effect from 6:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. ADA service requests must be received in advance, no later than 4 p.m. the day before. For additional information contact Ocean City Transportation at 410-723-1606 or visit www.oceancitymd.gov. Below is a sample ballot for the 2026 Municipal Election that includes two candidates for mayor and four council candidates. Municipal Election voters will ﬁll in the square to the left of the name(s) of your choice. For those who prefer to vote by mail: Absentee Ballot Applications are available on www.oceancitymd.gov. Once the application is received and vetted, an absentee ballot and self-addressed, return envelope, will be mailed to you. Absentee ballots can be returned by mail or dropped in the white mailbox outside of City Hall labeled Municipal Election Absentee Ballots Only. An Absentee Ballot Application and ballot can also be completed in person at City Hall, 301 N. Baltimore Avenue. Questions regarding Municipal Election can be directed to the City Clerk at 410289-8842.

Berlin Fire Company legends Harry Trimble, Charlie Townsend and Joe Pylypczuk are pictured riding the 1924 Mack in last summer’s MSFA parade.

MSFA representatives said that the event was a success. “You guys pulled out the red carpet for us and we really appreciate it,” Blackiston told the Berlin mayor and Town Council this week. “…We’re still talking about it.” Councilman Jay Knerr noted that this summer’s event was well-attended and drew first responders from areas he hadn’t even heard of before. “It was truly an amazing parade, I saw trucks from towns that I didn’t even know,” he said. The council unanimously approved the 2027 parade. The only change for next year’s show will be the location of the Touch-A-Truck event. During the 2026 parade, organizers

kicked off the festival with a morning Touch-A-Truck, allowing kids to interact with the fire apparatus. The addition also encouraged families to arrive early and support Berlin businesses. This time, Touch-A-Truck will move from the lot next to Sterling Tavern to the Town of Berlin Veterans Memorial. Leaders are also partnering with the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum to create a historical fire information and prevention display, which the location change will make easier, as the Taylor House is next door to the war memorial. When the event gets closer, MSFA will launch a webpage and Facebook account to push out important parade information and updates.

Dispatcher software shares info Continued from Page 81 tions. Information entered into the computer-aided dispatch system does not automatically transfer to the records management system, requiring employees to enter information more than once. The new platform would allow those systems to communicate, reducing duplicate data entry and administrative work. Of the department's current system, Drewer said, “It’s a step away from being a typewriter, in all honesty.” The upgrade would also change how Berlin officers receive and respond to emergency calls dispatched through the Worcester County Emergency Services 911 Center. Currently, Berlin personnel can view calls through a read-only interface but cannot interact directly with the information. Dispatchers must reenter details into Berlin’s own system before sending officers to respond. With CentralSquare, Berlin personnel would be able to work within the same system as county dispatchers, al-

lowing them to communicate and update information more directly. The new software would also expand the department’s access to information from other law enforcement agencies, including photographs, videos, and records of previous encounters. During this week’s discussion, Drewer said Berlin would retain access to its existing records and data even after transitioning to the new platform. Drewer said the department is able to reduce some of the new system’s expenses because the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office has agreed to assist in training Berlin officers on the software. “That’s better because they know how we’ll use this regionally,” Drewer said. Human Resources Director Kelsey Jensen said the need for updated technology has also surfaced in employee exit interviews with former officers pointing out a lack of modern tech at the Berlin force. The council approved the purchase unanimously.

OCTOBER 30, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

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3ELECT Lou

Taylor Commissioner District 6

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Pictured, from left, are Dean Lewis, President and CEO of Taylor Bank; Wes McCabe, Diakonia Board Member and Vice President, Loan & Business Development Officer at Taylor Bank; Ken Argot, Executive Director of Diakonia; and Amanda Shick, Development Director of Diakonia.

Taylor Bank donates $125K to Diakonia’s living campus (Oct. 30, 2026) Taylor Bank has made a substantial $125,000 investment in Diakonia’s Supportive Living Campus Capital Campaign, reinforcing its longstanding commitment to strengthening the community and supporting individuals, families, and Veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness across Maryland’s Lower Eastern Shore. Taylor Bank has been an instrumental partner in bringing Diakonia’s vision for the Supportive Living Campus to life. Under the leadership of President and CEO Dean Lewis, the bank has supported the project from its earliest stages, providing valuable guidance and helping Diakonia move this transformative initiative forward. “Taylor Bank has always believed in investing in the communities we serve, and Diakonia’s Supportive Living Campus represents an opportunity to make a lasting difference right here at home,” said Dean Lewis, President and CEO of Taylor Bank. “We’ve been proud to stand alongside Diakonia throughout this journey, and we’re excited to see this vision becoming a reality for the individuals and families who need it most.” Diakonia’s $15.25 million Supportive Living Campus will transform the organization’s ability to serve Mary-

land’s Lower Eastern Shore by expanding its Food Pantry, Veteran Support and Outreach Center, Thrift Store, and administrative offices, with Phase II adding 42 units of supportive housing. Diakonia’s existing Emergency Shelter will remain at its current location on Old Bridge Road in West Ocean City and continue operating as it does today. The new Campus will bring essential services together in one location, improving coordination and helping more people achieve longterm stability. “Dean Lewis and the entire Taylor Bank team have been beside us since the beginning, and their leadership has been a crucial part of this project’s success,” said Ken Argot, Executive Director of Diakonia. “Their $125,000 investment is a tremendous show of confidence in our mission and the future of the Supportive Living Campus. We’re incredibly grateful for their continued partnership and commitment to our community.” With more than $5.5 million already committed toward its $7.9 million Phase I fundraising goal, Diakonia continues to seek businesses, foundations, organizations, and individuals interested in investing in the Supportive Living Campus Capital Campaign.

GENERAL ELECTION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3RD 7 AM – 8 PM

DISTRICT 6 VOTING LOCATIONS SHOWELL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 11318 SHOWELL SCHOOL RD., BERLIN, MD 21811

OCEAN PINES COMMUNITY CENTER (ASSATEAGUE ROOM) 239 OCEAN PARKWAY, OCEAN PINES, MD 21811 BISHOPVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT 10709 BISHOPVILLE RD., BISHOPVILLE, MD 21813 LouTaylorforDistrict6Commissioner.com Lhterps78@gmail.com 410.352.3132 Authority of Charlotte K. Cathell, Treasurer

Opinions

Oct. 30, 2026

Page 84

Elections 2026: Our endorsements Mayor County Matt James

Before Ocean City voters go to the polls on Nov. 3 to select the mayor for the next two years, the question they should consider is whether to make a change now or to postpone it for another term. Put another way, when should Ocean City government make the inevitable transition from a mayor who can look back on many years of success to someone who can Matt James look forward? It's a difficult decision. On one hand, re-electing Mayor Rick Meehan to another term would deliver a known quantity to the mayor’s office and reward his nearly four decades of service as the mayor and a member of the council. On the other, voters could conclude that it is time for Council President Matt James, a younger leader who is also well known in the community, to be the face of the town as it enters its next chapter. One thing voters should understand before making this decision is what the job of mayor entails. Under the council-manager form of government, the mayor has limited executive power. The city manager is Ocean City's chief operating and financial officer, the council functions as a board of directors, and the council president serves as the board's chairman. The mayor has no vote on council matters, except in the appointment of a police chief. Instead, the position serves as Ocean City's primary ambassador, the city's handshaker-inchief at public events and its public

representative when circumstances require an official spokesperson to express Ocean City’s position and point of view. The effectiveness of the mayor in that role depends on the mayor’s relationship with the council. Given that a council majority two years ago supported Meehan's challenger, Peter Buas, and appears more aligned with James in this contest, we believe James would be better positioned to maintain the cooperative relationship necessary to carry the council's message forward. Obviously, Meehan has given much to Ocean City and has earned the community’s gratitude and respect. But because we believe the council and James will work better in concert, we feel now is the time for the resort to make the transition to a new mayor and to project a new forwardlooking image.

City Council Carol Proctor, Larry Noccolino, Billy Apostolou Ocean City voters will choose three council members Tuesday from a field of four candidates seeking to help guide the resort through some of the most challenging issues it has faced in years. Three seats are available in this term’s contest, and each carries a four-year term. The only incumbent up for reelection is Carol Proctor, who joined the council as a political neophyte four years ago. Competing with her are first-time candidates Billy Apostolou, a business development manager with a mortgage company, Larry Noccolino, who retired in September after 14 years as director of the Ocean City convention center, and Wayne Johnson, a retired retail manager who

OC Today-Dispatch Stubbornly local, equally independent NEWS EDITOR STEWART DOBSON; EXECUTIVE EDITOR STEVE GREEN; ASSOCIATE EDITOR BETHANY HOOPER STAFF WRITERS TARA FISCHER, BRIAN SHANE Contact News Room: editor@octodaydispatch.com

moved to the resort three years ago. Adding to the significance of this election is the departure of Council President Matt James, who is running for mayor against Carol Proctor incumbent Rick Meehan. His exit from that post leaves the seven-member body having to elect a new president for the term ahead. The council presidency, the most influential Larry Noccolino post in City Hall, could go to any of the seven members. C o n s e quently, council members will have to know their government and its issues if they are to be effective sooner rather Billy Apostolou than later. In addition to getting used to new leadership, the upcoming council will face demands from its two employee unions, have to assemble a budget and address the expectations of a business community that wants help. With these things in mind, we endorse incumbent Carol Proctor, Larry Noccolino and Billy Apostolou. Proctor has the edge because she’s been through the budget process four times, Noccolino has experience in the city’s employ in the area of tourism, and Apostolou gets our endorsement because he has become a student of local government since he filed to run for office in January.

SALES ACCOUNT MANAGERS MARY COOPER, TERRI FRENCH, RENEE KELLY CLASSIFIEDS/LEGALS PAMELA GREEN Contact Sales: sales@octodaydispatch.com PRODUCTION ART DIRECTOR COLE GIBSON; SENIOR PAGE DESIGNER SUSAN PARKS SENIOR AD DESIGNER KELLY BROWN

This year’s Worcester County Commissioners election was all but settled in the June primaries, when just one of the seven candidates had competition from outside his party: Joe Schanno, who defeated incumbent Republican Chip Bertino to move into the next round. The other candidates, Caryn Abbott, Roxie Dennis, Eric Fiori, Steve Joe Schanno Green, Lou Taylor and Joe Mitrecic, won their contests outright and have no opposition (other than write-in candidates) in the general election. Schanno, meanwhile, faces Democrat Vicki A. Wallace on Tuesday’s ballot. Based on interviews and one-onone sessions, we recommend Schanno for the post.

Board of Education In the District 6 non-partisan contest, we support Kathy Cater because of her extensive experience in this county’s school system. Over the course of her career — she retired in 2021 — Cater has been a classroom teacher, was a conflict resoluKathy Cater tion/human relations liaison at James M. Bennett High School, and spent the last 16 years in the field as assistant principal at Stephen Decatur High School. There’s no substitute for professional experience.

ADMINISTRATION PUBLISHER/CONTROLLER CHRISTINE BROWN ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT GINI TUFTS Web: octodaydispatch.com ~ Facebook: www.facebook.com/octodaydispatch OC Today-Dispatch is published Fridays by FLAG Publications, Inc. 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842410-723-6397 All content copyright 2026

OCTOBER 30, 2026

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OC Today-Dispatch

How we did it: We take this responsibility seriously. Our endorsements do not represent the opinions of any single individual and are the result of extended discussions within the news department during the election coverage period. They are consensus recommendations arising out of these deliberations between OC Today-Dispatch’s editors over the last several months.

Legislature, Ballot Question, Congress State Senate, District 38 If it is difficult to be a Republican in the Democrat-dominated Maryland General Assembly, it is even tougher to be an Eastern Shore Republican in the State Senate, considering the region's lack of political and economic horsepower. Yet since she was first elected in 2019, Senator Mary Beth Carozza has made it work in what may be the state's most economically diverse district. The 38th District, which includes Worcester and Somerset counties and part of Wicomico County, stretches from the high-rise skyline of Ocean City to the crab shanties of Smith Island in the middle of the Chesapeake Bay. In between are small towns, small businesses and more than a half-billion dollars in agricultural sales. No other district in the state has interests as varied as those of the 38th District. That is why the district needs experienced representation in Annapolis, and we endorse Mary Beth Carozza. Ballot Question No. 3 Here's what the nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization Maryland Matters says about this attempt by the Democratic Party to make clear that the state constitution has nothing to say about how congressional districts can be drawn: "Voters should choose their representatives by voting, rather than politicians drawing lines that give one party's candidates an advantage." This question is the party's response to Republican efforts in Texas and elsewhere to gerrymander Democratic members of Congress out of a job. Maryland Democrats say fair is fair. We say wrong is wrong and recommend voting AGAINST Question No. 3. 1st Congressional District Also wrong was Congressman Andy Harris (R) when he went ballistic and tried to have police remove a 22-year-old student journalist for legally attempting to record his answer to her question. He was wrong on the law, but apparently didn't care because the young female reporter had the temerity to challenge him. Considering the worldclass problems Congress is facing, a representative who loses his cool over a harmless question, and then plays the victim, is not the right person for the job. We endorse Democrat Dan Schwartz for Congress in the 1st District.

PUBLIC EYE

Burning daylight

Everyone will be delighted to know that, as the handbasket in which we are riding hurtles down into the roasty toasty realm of the wrong and wretched, our most stalwart defenders in Washington, By D.C. are still Stewart working to pass the Dobson Sunshine Protection Act. Only the federal government, and specifically the Congress of the United States, has the power to determine where and when the sun do shine, at least according to H.R. 139, which would make Daylight Saving Time permanent. In effect, the bill swaps a dark hour from the evening with a light hour from the morning and calls it a longer day. In that respect, it’s like carrying $20 in quarters around in a bag because it seems like

more money than a $20 bill in your wallet. Anyway, clocks will fall back an hour when Daylight Saving Time ends at 2 a.m. Sunday, thus providing people who can’t tell time the illusion of sleeping in for another hour. Interestingly, this is impossible, according to experts, who have found that, yep, a day is still just 24 hours no matter what anyone does or says. According to Artificial Intelligence, which has been butting into every online information search I conduct, our days are getting longer and shorter, depending on the day. You think I’m kidding? Here’s the verbatim sentence my search produced: “Earth's days are experiencing a mix of short-term acceleration (making days slightly shorter) and a long-term trend of deceleration (making days longer).” So, from this we may conclude that our days aren’t going anywhere fast ... except on days that they don’t go anywhere more slowly. Some people are probably wondering at this point what

I was looking for online when I got tangled up with AI. The fact is I was seeking the answer to the greatest time-related question of them all. Again, some people will conclude that I was reading up on Einstein’s theory of Special Relativity, which asserts that time, as we know it, doesn’t really exist. Of course, I never bought into that because Einstein expired in 1955, which I’d say is a strong indicator that time does exist because he ran out of it. Anyway, the great mystery about the switch between Standard Time and Daylight Saving Time is why it always happens at 2 a.m. Sunday. It’s as if the clock on that particular day holds up its hands at that precise moment and declares, “You shall not pass.” But no. AI, drawing from Time Magazine, says the Time Lords’ motive for picking 2 a.m. Sunday was because that’s when the fewest trains were running, thus eliminating the possibility that, during the switch from EST to DST in the spring, a train wouldn’t get ahead of itself.

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OCTOBER 30, 2026

Letters to the editor Disappointment in OC council’s public support Editor, (The following letter was sent to members of the Ocean City Council with a copy forwarded for publication in this space.) I am writing to express my profound disappointment in the recent newspaper advertisement featuring Matt James and the public support of members of our Town Council members Savage, Gehrig and Buas. I believe every Council member has the right to personally support the candidate of their choice. However, there is an important distinction between expressing an individual political preference and creating the appearance that our elected governing body has aligned itself with one candidate over another. You were elected to represent ALL the people of Ocean City, not simply those who share your political preferences. What troubles me most is the damage I believe this advertisement has done to the spirit of our community. At a time when our town needs unity, mutual respect, and responsible leadership, this action has contributed to an already divisive political atmosphere. I cannot adequately express how disappointed I am in those who participated. Whether you intended it or not, you have alienated residents who support Mayor Meehan and who once held you in high regard. I am among them. Respect is earned through fairness, integrity, and the ability to rise above personal political interests. Unfortunately, my respect for those involved has been deeply diminished. I am genuinely ashamed and embarrassed by what I consider such a poor display of judgment. Our community deserves better than political division among the very people entrusted to lead it. Perhaps my greatest disappointment is with Matt himself. I have known Matt since he was a little boy, and I expected more from him. I never imagined I would witness him participating in something I personally find so unnecessarily divisive. That disappointment is especially difficult because of the years I have known him. I sincerely believe this advertisement was in extremely poor taste and served no constructive purpose for our community. Rather than bringing people together, it has deepened divisions and damaged the trust and respect that should exist between our elected officials and the residents they serve. This is not the example of professional, dignified leadership I expect from Ocean City’s elected representatives. To me, it represents the very

kind of politics that has caused so many people to lose faith in government. I want each of you to understand that your participation has consequences. You have lost my confidence, my respect, and my support in future elections. That is not a statement I make lightly. I am deeply saddened that our local politics have reached this point. Ocean City is a community we all care about, regardless of whom we support politically. We should never allow an election to become more important than the relationships, mutual respect, and sense of community that make our town special. I expected better from our Council. I expected better from Matt. And most importantly, the people of Ocean City deserve better. Betty Bellarin Ocean City

American election process still reliable

Editor, With just days before the midterm elections, and anticipating the post-election right wing bombast about voter fraud and votes cast by non-citizens, it’s time to reveal the actual data that backs those claims. There is none. If there is, as Trump has brayed, where is it? In a 2020 interview on WBAL radio, Congressman Andy Harris alleged that Trump won the election but the system was laden with errors. “Harris provided no evidence for his assertions, rather claiming that there were a number of sworn affidavits backing them up.” Here is what is true about the security of American elections, coming from conservative voices: • From the American Bar Association: “Claims of widespread voter fraud are unsupported by evidence and are being used to erode public confidence in elections. Election systems are protected by multiple safeguards, while disinformation has fueled lawsuits, intimidation of election officials, political interference, and even violence. • From the very conservative Heritage Foundation, authors of Project 2025: “(Voter fraud) is so rare as to be statistically nonexistent.” An enormous Heritage Foundation study found only 23 cases of non-citizens voting between 2003 and 2022. That’s .00001% of all voters. Since 2016 the Foundation found 513 cases of undocumented citizens voting, out of 685 million votes cast. • From the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee: “ There’s simply no evidence of widespread voter fraud in this country. Period.” • From the conservation Hoover Foundation: “No Evidence For Voter Fraud: A Guide To Statistical Claims Continued on Page 88

OC Today-Dispatch

OCTOBER 30, 2026

Between the Lines By Steve Green

Four years ago, I leaned toward Democrat Wes Moore for governor because of my concerns about Republican Dan Cox, who I viewed as far too extreme for generally blue Maryland. I did not believe Cox could win a statewide election then, and I don’t think he will next week. Looking back, however, I regret my vote for Moore. I went a different way this year, and I think most of the Eastern Shore will, too. I think Cox will do better than he did in 2022. My disappointment is not about political party affiliation. I don’t view things through that lens only. It's about whether people are better off today than they were four years ago. The answer is no. Marylanders are paying more to title vehicles and boats (each more than doubled between 2024 and 2026) and it costs far more to live here than it did. Meanwhile, discussions about additional taxes and fees continue as state leaders confront significant and mysterious budget shortfalls. As for why we are here today, Moore blames the White House’s policies. It’s not that simple. A potential sales tax increase seems inevitable. At a time when families are already struggling with rising expenses, asking them to shoulder another financial burden should be a last resort, not a convenient solution to budget problems. The only way I can see increasing the sales tax is if a portion of the new revenue is redirected to the points of origin, such as the municipalities and counties. Currently, the state keeps the sales tax. The state's fiscal picture also deserves scrutiny. Moore entered office with a budget surplus and considerable financial flexibility. Today, Maryland faces substantial projected deficits, raising legitimate questions about spending priorities, long-term planning and fiscal discipline. Perhaps most troubling to me, however, is how Maryland has treated residents with disabilities and the families who depend on state support. Changes and reductions in disability-related funding have created tremendous uncertainty for families already navigating complicated lives. These are not abstract budget figures. They represent essential services, caregiver support and quality of life for some of Maryland's most vulnerable residents. Balancing a budget is important, but doing so at the expense of people who cannot simply absorb reductions in assistance is deeply concerning. To be fair, not every financial challenge facing Maryland originated with Moore. Inflation, federal funding decisions and longstanding structural budget problems all play a role. But governors are elected to confront challenges, establish priorities, pivot if trends are unfavorable and deliver results. Those are reasonable standards for any governor, regardless of political affiliation and aspirations beyond the current position being sought. *** A brief discussion was held this week at City Hall in Ocean City about increasing the reserve level from 17% to 20%. This would follow the path the county took in September. It’s a move that merits a lot of consideration. There is a difference between responsible financial planning in the event of an emergency and unnecessarily stockpiling taxpayer dollars. Ocean City officials should keep that distinction in mind as they consider increasing the town's reserve policy from 17% to 20% during the upcoming strategic planning process. While the intentions are sound, the question remains whether these higher reserve requirements are truly necessary. The Government Finance Officers Association recommends local governments maintain reserves equivalent to at least two months of operating expenses or revenues, or approximately 16.7%. The organization also acknowledges some governments may need larger reserves depending on their circumstances and vulnerabilities. To be clear, maintaining healthy reserves is essential. Ocean City faces unique financial challenges as a resort community, including seasonal revenue fluctuations, exposure to coastal storms and the potential for unexpected economic downturns. A strong financial cushion protects taxpayers and helps preserve the town's favorable borrowing position. Nobody should advocate for recklessly spending reserve funds or weakening the town's financial standing. However, there is a legitimate question about how much is enough. A massive hurricane’s destruction will require outside federal and state revenues anyway. Every additional percentage point dedicated to reserves represents public money that cannot be as readily directed toward other priorities. Ocean City faces significant infrastructure demands, rising employee health insurance expenses and the ongoing challenge of maintaining quality services without placing additional burdens on taxpayers. The town should be able to explain precisely what additional protection a 20% reserve provides that its current 17% policy does not. Unless officials can demonstrate a compelling financial reason to increase it, maintaining the existing standard seems the more reasonable course. *** Rest easy, Steve Pappas. His legacy will be carried on through the familyowned Original Greene Turtle. Pappo will be missed and had a major impact throughout the Ocean City area. He and his wife, Dawne, were recognized in 2019 with the Hal Glick Distinguished Service Award for their philanthropic ways, especially with the American Cancer Society, and support of youth sports.

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OCTOBER 30, 2026

HAUNTED TRAIL The Trail of Lost Souls returned for its 6th year October 16-17 and October 23-24 at the White Horse Park Boat Ramp Trail. New features this year included a Family Fun Zone (Soul’s Respite Campground), food vendors, games, and much more. PHOTOS COURTESY OF OPA

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Continued from Page 86 About The 2020 Election.” The American voting process can be trusted to deliver accurate results. The American Bar Association says “Our system of elections is a critical component of American democracy and efforts to cast doubt on their security and accuracy pose a grave systemic threat to our form of government. This is particularly ironic given the reality that American elections are among the

most reliably accurate in the world and have never been more secure than they are today.” Any statement by Donald Trump, MAGA Congressmen like Andy Harris and many far right influencers like Steve Bannon is simply untrue. Your vote, whether you voted in person or by mail, counts and will be recorded truthfully. Ronald Pilling Bishopville

OCTOBER 30, 2026

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PHOTO COURTESY OF TYLER LAYTON

NOR’EASTER SURFING Surfer Will Jenkins takes advantage of the prime waves brought by last week’s nor’easter. The ocean temperature currently is around 60 degrees.

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OC Today-Dispatch

OBITUARIES

BETHANY HOOPER/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

LOCAL CAMPAIGN SIGNS Signs for local, state and congressional candidates lined entrance and exit points to the Roland E. Powell Convention Center during early voting., which wrapped up on Thursday.

KATHLEEN E. HENSLER Berlin Kathleen Elizabeth Hensler, age 95, peacefully passed away in her sleep on October 23, 2026, in Berlin, Maryland. Born on November 14, 1930, in Baltimore, Maryland, she was the daughter of the late Conrad T. Hoffman and Kathleen (Grady) Hoffman. Kathleen was a K. Hensler graduate of the Institute of Notre Dame in Baltimore, Maryland in 1948. During her life, she was an active member of her community. She spent time working for the Upper Dublin School District and was a member of the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband – William J. Hensler; her sons – John Hensler and Mark Hensler; and her sister – Noreen Deppe. Kathleen is survived by her children – Robert Hensler (Lynne), Thomas Hensler (Susan), William Hensler (Marietta), and Kathleen Hensler; her grandchildren – Christina (Steve), Andrew (Jenn), Nick (Samantha), and Jackie (Brian); and her great grandchildren – Olivia, Dale, and Bethany.

A mass was held at St. Luke’s Catholic Church in Ocean City on Thursday Oct. 29, 2026, at 11 am. A burial will take place Friday October 30, 2026, at the Eastern Shore Veterans Cemetery in Hurlock, Maryland at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her honor to The Joseph House or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. Letters of condolence may be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home – Berlin. TERRY L. BRADLEY Ocean City Terry Lee Bradley, aged 67, passed away on October 24, 2026, at home, surrounded by his loving family. Born on November 7, 1958, in Dallas, Texas, to the late Tommy and Joyce Bradley, Terry was a man of quiet strength and enduring love. As a skilled carpenter, Terry spent over forty years in the Terry L. Bradley carpentry trade and was the proud owner and founder of Ocean City Woodworks, a company built on a foundation of integrity, hard work, and meticulous craftsmanship. Terry’s years in the carpentry trade, both in work and in pleasure, left standing

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OBITUARIES testaments to his many skills, including the family home. He took pride in what he built, and his craftsmanship spoke for itself. His work reflected not only his talent, but also his character, and the results of his labor will continue to stand as a reminder of the skill and dedication he brought to everything he did. Those left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Deborah “Debbi” Elliott, his three children, Jason Bradley, Matthew Kraemer, and Cassie Kraemer, four grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. Terry’s unwavering positivity and resilience were an inspiration to his family, and he will be greatly missed. A private service will be held at the family’s request. JOHN R. BOYDA Ocean City John "Jack" Richard Boyda, died on September 29, 2026, at the age of 85. Jack was born August 29, 1941 in Carnegie Pa. He subsequently lived in Edgewood, Md.; Conowingo, Md.; Glen Mills Pa.; Ocean City; and most recently in Media, Pa. Jack was born and raised in Carnegie PA where he was an Altar Boy at All Saints PNC Church, was a Golf John R. Boyda Caddy at Chartiers Country Club, played Football for and graduated from Carnegie High School (1959). Jack went to Virginia Military Institute in Lexington, VA on a Football Scholarship, graduating (1963) with a degree in Civil Engineering and Commissioned into the Army Reserves at the rank of 2nd Lieutenant. Of note, during the 1959 season the team was nationally ranked until losing to Penn State and beat Virginia Tech, finishing the season 8-1-1. Jack also received an MBA from Penn State at State College, PA. After VMI, Jack worked for the Southern Railway based in Charlotte NC. During the Vietnam War period, he was active duty Army at Aberdeen Proving Grounds and Edgewood Arsenal during the Vietnam War period and had responsibility for Munitions and Munitions Training. He continued his service as an Army Reserves

Obituary Submissions E-mail: editor@octodaydispatch.com Submitted obituaries will cost $50.00 for print and online publications. A sales representative from our ofﬁce will contact you for payment once your submission is sent.

Officer, retiring at the rank of Captain. After fulfilling his military commitment, Jack went to work for the Philadelphia Electric Company (PECO) starting at Conowingo Dam, working at various locations including Muddy Run, Peach Bottom and Oregon Shops, retiring as a Sr. Executive. After Retiring from PECO, Jack spent about 18 months as a consultant in the Nuclear Power Industry, before changing careers to become a Real Estate Agent in Ocean City, MD. Jack enjoyed coaching little league sports such as Football and Baseball at Brandywine Youth Club; Playing Golf; Wood Working and participating in Lions Club. Jack was a fighter and survived Bladder Cancer (2010), Prostate Cancer (2010), Thyroid Cancer (2017) and Pancreatic Cancer (2018). He finally succumbed to Kidney Disease, Heart Disease and Vascular Disease complications, dying peacefully in his sleep at Riddle Memorial Hospital, Media, Pa. Jack was the husband of Kathleen Phyllis "Phyllis" Boyda (nee King), married 61 years. Son of the late John Joseph and Helen Louise (nee Nowacki) Boyda of Carnegie, Pa. Grandson of the late Jan (John) and Michalina (nee Szpak) Bojda (Boyda) and Leopold A and Ewa (Eva) K (nee Makar / Macker) Nowacki of

Carnegie, Pa,, all four of whom emigrated from Poland. Brother of Arleen H Porter (the late Larry) of Centerville OH; Dr. Robert J. Boyda (Helen) of Boston MA; the late Janet L. Boyda of Carnegie PA/ Boston MA; Kenneth L. Boyda (Virginia "Ginger") of Wautoma WI. Father of Michele A. Boyda Cipollone of Glen Mills, Pa.; Mike Boyda (Brittnie) of Schwenksville, Pa; Kathleen 'Kathy" Louise Boyda Conlin (partner Bill Hoelzel) of Boca Raton, Fla. Grandfather of Lauren T Cipollone, Jessica S Cipollone and Michael V Cipollone of Glen Mills, Pa.; Kelsey M Boyda of Portland, Ore.; Alexandra "Alex" D Boyda of Washington DC; Mikhaila V Boyda (fiancé Alex Baker) of Phoenixville Pa., Addie Rossi of Philadelphia, Pa., Avery Rossi of Schwenksville, Pa.; James "Jim" A. Conlin III (Maria) of Morristown, NJ; John "Jack" M. Conlin of Charlotte, N.C., Kathleen Elizabeth "Betsy" Conlin of Horsham, Pa.; Brendon S Conlin of Morristown, N.J. Great Grandfather of James A Conlin IV of Morristown, NJ. Friends received Saturday October 31 at 9:30am in the Parish Hall at St. John's Episcopal Church, 576 Concord RD, Glen Mills, PA 19342. Mass of Christian Burial will take place in the Church at 11am, with Burial to follow in the St. John's Cemetery. In Lieu of flowers, contributions may be

made to Wounded Warrior Project. LESLIE FREEMAN Ocean City Leslie Joan Freeman (née Stewart), 85, of Ocean City, died peacefully at home Oct. 5. Born in Washington, D.C., she spent much of her life in Chantilly, Va., before moving to Ocean City. She was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Edward Leslie J. Freeman “Ed” Freeman, and her parents, James and Margaret Stewart. Survivors include her daughters, Valerie Short and her husband, Edgar Short Jr., of Selbyville, DE., and Kathryn Simon of Wake Forest, NC, granddaughter Casey Simon and Casey’s partner, Marc Atkins, of Charlotte, NC, and best friend Johanna Devon of Haymarket, Va., along with numerous cherished friends and family. A graveside service and celebration of life will be held at 12 p.m. Nov. 5 at Fairfax Memorial Park in Fairfax, VA, followed by a Celebration of Life gathering from 1 to 4 p.m. at 2941 Restaurant in Falls Church, VA. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her honor to a local animal rescue organization.

Sports & Recreation

OC Today-Dispatch Oct. 30, 2026

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF JAMAL FOREMAN AND SDHS

DECATUR PHOTOS OF THE WEEK Stephen Decatur High School’s varsity field hockey team celebrated its seniors last week with a 6-0 win over North Caroline. Pictured with teammates, top, are seniors Emily Skipper, Skylar Price, Kamryn Hitchens, Megan Sandt, Avari Shoff, Morgan Michalski, Halle Marshall, Reese Whittaker, Elizabeth Palmer and Tilly Callahan. Above left, FOP Lodge 10 recently supported the Stephen Decatur High School Cheer Team with a $500 sponsorship. Lodge members are pictured with the team at a recent game. Above right, middle, Stephen Decatur’s junior varsity team is pictured after a recent competition. Above right, Stephen Decatur’s varsity volleyball team celebrated its seniors last week. Pictured, from left, are Hailey Lewis, Lila Gunther, Kylee Funke, Chloe Jones and Hayden Esworthy. Senior not pictured was Amari Purnell.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION

TEAMS RECOGNIZED During last week’s Worcester County Board of Education meeting, teams from Stephen Decatur High School were recognized for performance during the spring season. Top left, players on the varsity baseball team (graduated members not pictured) that won the Bayside Conference and the 3A East Region II are pictured. The team lost in the state finals last spring. Above right, the state championship boys lacrosse team is pictured (graduated players not in attendance). The team won the 3A East Region II and state title last year. Above middle, SDHS Athletic Director Dan Dobronz, Superintendent Annette Wallance, Board President Todd Ferrante and Principal Tom Sites are pictured with the school’s banner for having the best sportsmanship in the Bayside South. At right, Decatur baseball coach Rich Ferro was recognized for winning Bayside South Coach of the Year for baseball last year.

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DECATUR RUNNERS WIN BAYSIDE Stephen Decatur High School’s boys cross country team took home the Bayside Championship on Tuesday. Snow Turns Park in Cambridge hosted 16 teams for the championship event. Decatur’s girls team came up just short, coming in second place in the event. Top individual finishers for the bays team were Alex Pouchan, second; Carter Steffy, fourth; Kyler Riser, ninth; and Chandler Muller, 13th. On the girls side, Sydney Fowler won second place and Lily Norma took home third place at the meet. The varsity teams are pictured. PHOTOS COURTESY OF SDHS

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