11/14/25 OC Today-Dispatch

Worcester adds to its network of cameras

From libraries to landfills, Worcester will have somewhere around 175 watchful eyes monitoring citizens by this spring.— PAGE 18

More housing under review near Pines

A residential planned community on Route 589 with 137 multi-family units gets a first look by county’s technical review committee.— PAGE 13

BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

The Worcester County Veterans Memorial Foundation hosted its annual Veterans Day ceremony on a frigid and windy Tuesday to pay tribute to those who served in all branch of the country’s Armed Forces. See page 68 for more photos.

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Boardwalk Rock 2026 nixed when headliners backed out

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(Nov. 14, 2025) The cancellation of two headline acts has forced the promoter of the Boardwalk Rock music festival to cancel next year’s event, Ocean City Tourism and Business Development Director Tom Perlozzo said last week.

Last Wednesday, the Town of Ocean City announced the second edition of the Boardwalk Rock festival would not be held next spring. While organizers and city staff are optimistic about the event’s return in 2027, Perlozzo said challenges in securing headline acts forced the promoter – C3 Presents – to cancel the 2026 event entirely.

“Everything, operationally, was set and ready to go,” Perlozzo said in an interview last Thursday. “But we had two headliners drop out over the course of getting this thing ready, and we couldn’t find a replacement that was suitable and met the expectations for a first-class event here in Ocean City.”

While expressing his disappointment over the cancellation, Perlozzo said C3 Presents was working to bring Boardwalk Rock back to Ocean City in 2027 with top-tier entertainment, which he said is often booked between 18 months and two years in advance of an event.

Perlozzo declined to comment on who the two headliners were that pulled out of the 2026 music festival, and C3 Presents’ Tim Sweetwood did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

“We’re extremely disappointed,” Perlozzo said of the cancellation. “It’s a great opportunity and puts a shot in the arms of the businesses. But I think 2027 will be bigger and better.”

Last winter, C3 Presents announced it would bring a third major music festival – Boardwalk Rock – to

downtown Ocean City May 17-18, 2025. To accommodate the new event, officials moved the yearly Springfest and Cruisin’ Ocean City to earlier dates on the special events calendar.

Within days of its announcement, the promoter released the lineup for the spring festival. Headliners included Def Leppard and Mötley Crüe on Saturday and Nickelback and Shinedown on Sunday. The acts also featured supporting sets from 23 other bands, including Halestorm, Three Doors Down, and Alice Cooper.

However, in April, the promoter announced Mötley Crüe had canceled its appearance, as lead vocalist Vince Neil was recovering from a medical procedure. Alice in Chains was announced as the backup performer.

But roughly a month later, it was announced that Alice in Chains had also canceled its performance over a medical issue. The following day, Rob Zombie was added to the lineup.

Slow ticket sales also plagued the spring music festival. However, by the festival weekend, Boardwalk Rock had sold out. Building off the success of two other festivals –Oceans Calling and Country Calling –the promoter’s event brought an estimated 55,000 people to downtown Ocean City for the two-day event, which featured nearly 30 national rock groups performing on three stages.

In a statement released last Wednesday, the Town of Ocean City said it looks forward to welcoming Boardwalk Rock back to Ocean City in 2027.

Perlozzo said last week that the promoter’s challenges in securing entertainment have no effect on next year’s Oceans Calling and Country Calling concerts, the lineups of which will be announced in the coming months.

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Boardwalk Rock is pictured during a performance on Saturday in the May event.

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(Nov. 14, 2025) With Ocean City officials praising the success of this year’s improved Sunfest, organizers and event planners say they are now preparing for a “reimagined” Springfest next April.

Last Monday, Acting Special Events Director Brenda Moore presented members of the Ocean City Tourism Commission with a summary of 2025 seasonal events, including this year’s 50th annual Sunfest. Pointing to the strong entertainment lineup, new activities and nice weather, she said this year’s event brought large crowds.

“Even mother nature cooperated with us this year,” she joked. “So we are very, very pleased. Awesome turnout.”

Tourism and Business Development Director Tom Perlozzo agreed, noting that entertainment – particularly the Amish Outlaws concert –brought crowds to downtown Ocean City in late October.

“There were more people at that concert than I’ve ever seen at any Sunfest event,” he said.

Moore noted that the perception of Sunfest has changed in recent years. While community members were initially disappointed when the city moved the event to October, she said those sentiments have changed.

“People are just happy to be there,” she said.

Mayor Rick Meehan remarked on the weekend’s crowds and staff’s ef-

forts to “reinvent” Sunfest. He said the changes made a big difference.

“I thought last year was a fantastic crowd, but this year’s crowd totally eclipsed it …,” he said. “We looked out

at the beach late Saturday afternoon, you couldn’t even see where the crowd stopped on the beach. That's how many people were there.”

Meehan also noted that the event also brought people into surrounding businesses.

“The fact that it closes down at 7 o’clock, you saw the people go out into all the surrounding businesses,” he said. “I had comments from restaurateurs who picked up a lot of people after Sunfest was over.”

With Sunfest concluded, officials say they are now preparing for next year’s Springfest. Moore said the event will have its staples, such as music and entertainment, while introducing new artistic elements.

“We’ll be introducing new street painting, working with the Art League again,” she said. “This artist from Baltimore that we are contracting with does 3-D art on the ground, so it should be cool to see.”

Perlozzo added that there would also be changes to paid entertainment.

“For Springfest 2026, we’re going to move all the paid entertainment –which are three shows, Thursday, Friday and Saturday – into the Performing Arts Center,” he said. “Those entertainers have already been booked.”

“It should be really good …,” he added. “We are trying to reinvent our events. It’s time we reimagine and take advantage of the things that work.”

BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

On a sunny day with temperatures in the 70s, music fans turned out in droves to watch Van Halen cover band Romeo Delight perform at the Midway Stage on Oct. 24 at Ocean City’s Sunfest.

OCPD recruits for new type of summer help

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(Nov. 14, 2025) Readying for a second summer without its seasonal officer program, the Ocean City Police Department says it’s been fielding dozens of applications for the role of “Public Safety Officer.”

The police department last week started interviewing candidates for Public Safety Officers from a pool of about 60 applications, 40 of which were submitted in October, according to training and recruiting head Lt. Andrew Yeager.

While it’s technically a civilian position, a Public Safety Officer, or PSO, can still issue municipal citations, handle booking and fingerprinting, and direct traffic. Last year, OCPD staffed 60 PSOs, an number Yeager said he expects will increase for summer 2026.

Notably, most PSO applicants will conduct their entire application process online and, after passing an entrance exam, will be interviewed by recruiters via video conference using Microsoft Teams instead of in-person interviews, he added.

“That’s been beneficial in getting more people in the door,” Yeager said of the all-online process, sharing the recruiting update during Monday’s meeting of the Ocean City Police Commission at police headquarters.

The public safety officer program replaces the town’s seasonal officer program, which held strong for almost 125 years before fading away in recent years.

State law mandates that new recruits attend a six-month police academy. However, for decades, Ocean City Police enjoyed a carve-out to that rule:

as long as OCPD could recruit 100 seasonal cops, then summer hires didn’t have to attend the academy.

But the agency hadn’t hit that 100cop hiring threshold since 2015. And so, for a while, the department tried a different method: hiring cops on a provisional basis.

The Maryland Police Training Commission went along with this for a few years. But new commission leadership decided that “provisional” officers are supposed to be in training mode, not on sworn duty. The new policy interpretation meant OCPD couldn’t hire cops provisionally for summer anymore.

Ocean City’s seasonal program –founded in 1900 by the resort’s first police constable – ultimately came to an end because state officials decided to hold OCPD to the special exception it had enjoyed for years. A nationwide drought in recruiting fueled by a dip in public police sentiment didn’t help, either.

Police here have tried to remain competitive in recruiting as other local and regional police agencies continue to ratchet up starting pay and bonuses. City leaders last year approved pay raises for new police hires, and this year a new bonus structure and property tax incentives have been proposed for employees who live in the town.

But the OCPD’s 126-person roster is still short by about 25. They have 117 sworn officers on staff, but between vacancies and officers taking medical leave, only 100 are available to hit the streets, officials said Monday.

Recruiters continue to travel weekly from Ocean City to find new applications all along the East Coast, Yeager added. One focus is on local hires from nearby colleges. They’ve even captured hundreds of applicant emails in recent weeks and will continue to ping those prospects, a modern recruiting tool Yeager said he believes will pay off.

OCPD received 11 applications for full-time officers October, according to Yeager, and the next round of testing is scheduled for Nov. 22. For now, seven officer recruits are in the police academy and will graduate Dec. 11, Yeager said.

Police will need all the help they can get this coming summer to staff a new substation that opened downtown off Baltimore Avenue at Somerset Street.

Police Chief Ray Austin said Monday that staffing the substation will be done mostly by PSOs, reserve officers, and volunteer auxiliary officers.

“I don’t necessarily know that we’ll have somebody down there staffing that 24-7,” Austin said, “but certainly during the hours that are most active down there.”

Purnell, Dennis to vie for commissioner seat

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(Nov. 14, 2025) There will be a primary election among Democrats vying for the District 2 County Commissioner’s seat, as incumbent Diana Purnell last week filed to run for reelection against challenger Roxie Dennis.

Dennis is hardly a newcomer to local politics. She’s been on the ballot for years as an elected member of the Worcester County Democratic Central Committee, which she now chairs, but has never run for an elected legislative position in government.

“I’ve been preparing myself for this since 2014 since Mrs. Purnell took the position,” Dennis said in an interview. “I want to be a voice for the people. I have committee people

who are saying, ‘I believe too, Roxie, this is your time.’ I feel it’s time for a change, and I am the voice for the people at this time.”

Dennis has worked for more than 30 years for the Wicomico County Board of Education as a teacher and student advisor. She plans to retire from the school system if elected. Dennis is also a pastor with Ambassadors for Christ International Ministries in the Germantown area of Berlin and has served as the president of the local NAACP branch, where she’s currently an organizational vice-president.

Campaign issues for the staunchly pro-union Dennis include funding for education and teacher salaries, a renewed focus on the county jail and its staffing levels, and affordable housing – which she prefers to call “attain-

able housing.”

“What is ‘affordable’ for one person isn’t attainable for someone else,” Dennis noted. “Some people can’t afford $2,200 a month payment for a house and they might have 3 or 4 children.”

She also has concerns about federal immigration agents reaching into the county to target a Spanish-speaking population, and says she wants to find solutions for the homeless population of Ocean City.

Dennis filed her candidacy paperwork at the Board of Elections on Oct. 7. Purnell followed suit a month later, filing on Nov. 6 for a fourth term in office.

“When I think about Worcester County – and this is basically the reason I’m running again – when I look over the last two years, I’ve had a pos-

itive impact on this county, and I don’t feel quite finished yet,” Purnell said in an interview.

The first Black woman to be elected to the Worcester County Commissioners, Purnell is a businesswoman who’s active in the community as a member of many boards and commissions.

Of pressing importance to Worcester County is how to handle growth, Purnell said, while working collaboratively with her fellow elected officials.

“We are in a growth spurt and we need to be in accord to grow the county properly, not overdo it, and make sure there’s room for everybody,” she said.

Purnell is also focused on issues like education and workforce development – and noted how, in some places, those issues can overlap, like at Worcester Technical High School where students can walk out the door into a good-paying career in the trades.

“That gives them the ability to work in this community. They don’t have to leave to get a job. That’s how you grow a community that everybody wants to stay in, because they got their start here. You don’t have to leave home,” Purnell said.

Another key issue for Purnell under the umbrella of education is school construction.

She’s been in office for the construction or renovation of Showell Elementary and Stephen Decatur Middle, and hopes to be back for another four years while Buckingham Elementary and Berlin Intermediate School get overhauled.

“That’s really important to me,” she said. “That’s taking care of the babies in our county.”

When asked about having some competition in the primary, Purnell was unfazed.

“I feel that my position as a county commissioner over the last two terms should speak to the community, that I’ve had their best interest at heart. Everybody can run that wants to run. That’s the American way,” she said.

New housing project on 589 receives early evaluation

While still in preliminary stages, Racetrack Village could offer lower-cost units

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(Nov. 14, 2025) Plans are moving forward for a 137-unit housing development outside Ocean Pines, where units may be on the small side to keep sales prices affordable.

Racetrack Village is slated for a 23acre property along the east side of Route 589 (Racetrack Road). The Worcester County Technical Review Committee reviewed an early concept of the site plan Wednesday in Snow Hill.

Plans provided by architectural firm Vista Design, Inc., show a dozen clusters of housing units, sited to the north and east of the triangle-shaped property. The development is buffered to the east by about 100 feet of forest and tidal wetland conservation easement, separating the property from the adjacent Nottingham Lane in Ocean Pines.

While clusters of 22-by-55 square foot buildings would be constructed to resemble townhouses, each would include two units, one upstairs and one down. Upstairs units possibly could occupy the top two floors, according to attorney Hugh Cropper, who represents the owner and developer, Maryland Medical Owners III, LLC.

Cropper said the units would be designated for individual sale, and that the smaller home sizes – units would range in size from 900 to 1,200 square feet – might reflect a lower price point in the housing market, making them more affordable to buyers. While parking will be provided on the property, garages are not part of the build.

Plans also call for Racetrack Village to offer a swimming pool, pool house, and walking path along the perimeter. It’s also slated to house future commercial or retail space on the north side of the property, on a 2.5acre parcel flanking Route 589. Homes and businesses here would tie into the Ocean Pines sewer district.

At this point, the developer will spend months more in planning before any construction might begin in late 2026, Cropper also said.

While there was some inquiry Wednesday from planning officials about whether these properties would be made available for shortterm rentals, Cropper said that hasn’t been discussed with him by the ownership group. If short-term rentals

were offered, it would then require extra parking, according to zoning administrator Kristen Tremblay.

For years, the property was farmland and a produce stand. It was recently redeveloped by Atlantic General Hospital, which constructed a new outpatient center and pharmacy. Blueprints submitted to the Worcester County Technical Review Committee show the new housing units will surround the AGH facility.

Worcester County officials in August voted to rezone the land from commercial to residential, at the property owners’ request. The property had been slated for a planned assisted living facility, but that was scrapped in favor of a housing development.

Cropper, their attorney, told the County Commissioners Aug. 5 that multifamily residential zoning would be less impactful than the existing general commercial zoning because housing would generate far less traffic than other commercial uses like a convenience store, fast food joint, or even a car dealership.

The ownership group a decade ago had plans in place to develop a massive medical campus for Atlantic General Hospital. That project, including a 100,000 square foot medical campus purpose-built for elective surgeries, fell apart when the state of Maryland changed its hospital funding model.

Combined with the COVID-19 pandemic, this development plan proved untenable, and the original vision was scaled down. What ended up being built is the existing outpatient facility, now the Gudelsky Family Medical Center.

However, because the property was supposed to have ended up with that substantially larger project, it means the traffic intersection here now is effectively over-designed, meaning there will be plenty of room to accommodate all the traffic flowing in and out of Racetrack Village, according to the developer.

Moving forward, the development will be reviewed by the county’s Planning Commission and ultimately requires approval from the County Commissioners.

Also discussed during Wednesday’s meeting of the Technical Review Committee, there was a site plan review for a 23,000-square-foot expansion of Coastal Community Church in the West Ocean City-Berlin corridor along Route 50. It would include a new 630-person sanctuary space, offices, classrooms, as well as a new outdoor pickleball court.

NORTHERN LIGHTS

On Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, the Northern Lights were visible for most in the coastal region. The Northern Lights appear as a result of charged particles from the sun colliding with molecules in the atmosphere, causing varying colors based on the height and type of molecules. Though not always visible to the naked eye, the lights are typically seen with phone and standard cameras. Above is a scene captured from Snow Hill Tuesday night.

Job Opportun Ocean City Town Of ity

CHRISTINE BROWN/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

PHOTO COURTESY OF CAMPOS MEDIA

A scene from West Ocean City is pictured Tuesday night.

Anderson set to replace Otto, his best man

Committee submits farmer from Somerset to governor, who should confirm choice

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(Nov. 14, 2025) In the summer of 2010, veteran Somerset County lawmaker Page Elmore lost his battle with cancer, creating a vacancy for his seat in the House of Delegates.

It was Kevin Anderson who pushed for his lifelong friend Charles Otto, the best man at his wedding, to campaign for the job.

“I kept begging him to file to run, and he wouldn’t do it,” Anderson recalled in an interview.

“On the final day, I called him at lunchtime, and said, ‘you have to go to Baltimore to file. You could win this.’ We made the agreement that if I would drive him to Baltimore, he’d file to run. So at 4 o’clock – the deadline was 8 pm – we left Princess Anne and we drove to Baltimore,” he added.

With Anderson by his side as his campaign manager, Charles Otto won not only that election for the District 38A seat, but another two more. Otto had just filed to run for a fourth term when he died unexpectedly on Oct. 17 at age 61. State elec-

tion rules say Otto’s fellow Republican Party members may nominate a replacement for Gov. Wes Moore’s final approval.

After hearing from five applicants, the Somerset County GOP central committee on Monday announced they will recommend to the governor that the appointment should go to Kevin Anderson.

“It felt like I was the best person to fill Charles’ shoes,” he said. “When Charles Otto was in Annapolis, I never lost any sleep about which way he would vote. I knew he would vote with the Eastern Shore way of life in mind, and I just hope to carry on that tradition.”

Anderson, 57, said his head is still spinning as he continues to process not only the loss of his dear friend of five decades, but the “whirlwind” nominating process among local Republicans that he called “overwhelming.”

Not only did Otto’s family encourage him to put his name in, Anderson said he’s received a groundswell of support from the agricultural community as well.

He also appreciates that it’s not a done deal until the governor signs off. Election rules give Gov. Moore 15 days to affirm the GOP’s recommendation, which lands around Nov. 25.

A representative from Moore’s office confirmed receipt of the recommendation and will respond within the review period.

“Personally, I don’t believe I’ve done anything to irritate the governor, that I know of,” Anderson said with a laugh. “That’s why I’m not trying to put the cart before the horse.”

Like Otto, Howard Kevin Anderson is a generational farmer from Princess Anne. But he’s also the first in three generations to farm full-time on their land; Anderson’s grandfather had been a part time school teacher and his father worked nights and weekends as a tractor salesman. Today, in their family business, Wimberly Farms, Anderson and his father sell seed to local farmers and retailers.

Eastern Shore Republicans said they were looking for that agricultural know-how when they considered naming a replacement for Otto, who had been the only farmer in the Maryland legislature.

“Really, we started our careers in Annapolis, advocating for agriculture and the Eastern Shore way of life together, back in the day,” Anderson said of Otto. “I’ve been going to Annapolis to advocate for agriculture for 38 years. It’s not new to me; I’m just going to be sitting on the other side of

the table. I’ll do my speaking when the hearing’s over, not during the hearing.”

Anderson admits if he gets the job, he doesn’t know exactly what to expect in Annapolis for the General Assembly’s 2026 Legislative Session. But he does anticipate budgetary issues will be front and center for lawmakers, who just tackled a $3 billion revenue shortfall in their last session.

Other potential challenges for District 38A – which includes all of Somerset County, a third of voters in Worcester County, and a sliver of Wicomico County – include easing regulatory pressure on self-employed watermen and farmers, as well as addressing the rock-bottom rankings for Somerset’s public school system, he said.

“Being a minority [party] in Annapolis, I’m just going to have to take a wait-and-see attitude and probably follow the lead of some more seasoned Republicans that have reached out to me and welcomed me,” Anderson said.

As for Worcester County, he admits he’ll have to catch up on the issues here, but does appreciate how Ocean City’s hotel and restaurant operators are in the same self-employed boat as those who work the land and

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County will improve, expand camera system

Commissioners approve $900K update in phase 1 but more cameras to come

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(Nov. 14, 2025) The watchful eye of county government is expanding in Worcester County, as elected officials approved the purchase and installation of more security cameras for parks, libraries, wastewater treatment plants and other public facilities.

The county commissioners at their Nov. 4 meeting approved a $412,358 expenditure — about $10,000 under budget — to expand the county’s network of surveillance cameras. It’s the second phase of a comprehensive upgrade to replace dozens of aging or defunct cameras countywide, according to Brian Jones, the county’s IT director.

“We’re in need of something new,” he told OC Today-Dispatch. “These things haven’t been touched in some time.”

The county also will be adding a new position for Jones’ IT department, a data analyst whose duties would include camera oversight as well as data security and minding access to keycard-controlled doors.

In Phase 1 of the upgrade, 155 cameras were slated to be replaced at a budgeted cost of $900,000. It wasn’t necessarily a 1-to-1 replacement, Jones said. Some spots with three or four cameras were replaced with a single camera that could show a wider angle or even multiple viewpoints.

Complete roll-out and installation for Phase 1, conducted as a solesource bid from the firm Absolute Security, should be done by the end of the calendar year. For data retrieval, the unified system will live on a primary server with some cloud-based storage – no more tape retrieval would be needed from the site where it was recorded, Jones noted.

As planning continued, other county department heads came to Jones with additional requests for cameras in new locations. That became Phase 2, and it’s estimated to take another two to three months to finish the additional installs, with targeted completion of spring 2026.

Expansion will add approximately 32 cameras to about 20 locations, including three public libraries, six recycling centers, three public parks, two county buildings, and multiple wastewater treatment plants and water towers. It’ll also add camera coverage to every square inch of the

county’s circuit court building in Snow Hill.

Upgrades prioritized installation of new cameras at all the county’s recycling centers to combat illegal dumping. The quality of new cameras is clear enough to read license plates from afar with incredible clarity, day or night, Jones added.

“It never fails – people do spring cleaning, and they decide to throw away refrigerators, TVs, things that shouldn’t be there,” he said. “It’s a huge expense for the taxpayers.”

New software with artificial intelligence will also provide the county with a robust search function.

“We can literally go in, and we’re searching for somebody with a red hat, it can search people,” Jones said. “If you’re looking for facial recognition, we can search for that. It’s also going to be weapon detection as well, which is huge.”

Officials decided to pursue the project when they saw that not only older cameras needed upgrading or replacement, but that the IT department was running out of storage space on its main server for cameras, according to County Administrator Weston Young.

There also had been an instance of vandalism at the Snow Hill library, where the camera angles weren’t

clear enough. Young said that incident gave the county motivation to install cameras in better locations or to get wide-angle or fish-eye lenses for increased security.

Young also said the camera system at the county jail was recently upgraded, and whatever technology gets installed for dozens of camera upgrades will be compatible with that.

Somerset farmer was Otto friend

Continued from Page 16

the water in Somerset County.

Ultimately, Anderson says he wouldn’t go to Annapolis with any agenda or preconceived notions –and, like Charles Otto, just wants to be a voice for the residents of the district.

“There’s probably not a lot of difference between Charles’ beliefs and my beliefs,” Anderson said. “He wouldn’t want his seat turned over to anyone less qualified than he was, I figure. The voters of 38A can do whatever they want at election time, but right now, I’m going to try to fill his shoes with my body and my perspective.”

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OC’s Winterfest of Lights returns on Nov. 20

(Nov. 14, 2025) The Winterfest of Lights returns this year with dazzling displays, new features, and exciting additions that promise to make the holiday season brighter than ever.

Ocean City will celebrate the 33rd Annual Winterfest of Lights beginning on Thursday, November 20, 2025, with the opening ceremony starting at 5:30 p.m., featuring a special performance by the Ocean City Elementary School’s “OC Stars” along with a spectacular fireworks display. Mayor Rick Meehan will “flip the switch” to light the Winterfest holiday light displays, officially opening Winterfest of Lights. Opening night is free to the public.

The Winterfest of Lights transforms Northside Park into a winter wonderland, featuring millions of twinkling lights, dozens of animated holiday displays, and a breathtaking 50-foot Christmas tree that shines brightly over the bay. Guests can stroll along the illuminated walking trail, sip hot cocoa, and take in the festive sights and sounds that have made this event a cherished Eastern Shore tradition for more than three decades.

Returning this year are the Trimper’s Amusement and Winterfest train rides the children are sure to love. And, Furry Friends Day is back on Wednesdays, so your leashed pet can enjoy the season along with you.

“This is one of the most magical times of the year in Ocean City,” said Mayor Rick

Meehan. “Winterfest of Lights brings families together to celebrate the holidays and experience the joy, warmth, and beauty of Ocean City during the winter season.”

In addition to the dazzling lights, visitors can stop by the Winterfest Pavilion, featuring holiday music, photo opportunities with Santa Claus, a gift shop, and much more, such as the spectacular model railroad displays of the Winterfest Train Gardens.

New this year, experience the magic of the holiday season like never before. On select evenings, experience Enchanted Evenings. Hop aboard a buggy for a horse-drawn carriage ride through the lights! During these nights, the park will be open to carriage riders only. Reservations are required and can be obtained on the Town’s website. And, on Friday and Saturday nights, experience “Fire and Ice.” Walk through the snow

arch and take a photo on the ice throne before warming up by a bonfire and enjoying a meal from the food trucks.

The hours of operation are Wednesday-Sunday from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Winterfest tickets can be purchased onsite or online. Admission is $6 for those 12 years & older and free for those 11 years and younger. Trimper’s Amusement and Winterfest train rides are available at an additional cost.

Shore Gives website now available

(Nov. 14, 2025) The Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore has launched Shore Gives 365, a year-round online giving platform that connects donors to verified local nonprofits across the Lower Eastern Shore. The platform builds on the decade-long success of the Foundation’s Shore Gives More Giving Tuesday campaign, which generated more than $2.9 million in charitable support since its inception.

Shore Gives 365 provides a one-stop giving experience where donors can browse local organizations, learn about their missions, and make contributions any day of the year. Donors can support one or many nonprofits in a single secure check-out and may choose to make a

one-time donation or schedule recurring gifts to sustain impact beyond seasonal campaigns. Individuals may also purchase charitable gift cards to give to friends or family, empowering the recipient to choose which participating nonprofit they wish to support.

To celebrate the launch, the Community Foundation is infusing $100,000 into the platform’s early giving period. This includes $20,000 in charitable gift cards distributed at the Foundation’s Annual Meeting, and an $80,000 Shore Gives 365 Kickoff Challenge. Through the challenge, donations made on ShoreGives365.org will be matched dollar for dollar, up to $2,500 per participating nonprofit, while matching funds remain available. The

challenge is intended to accelerate early momentum and amplify donor impact.

“Shore Gives 365 is like an online charitable department store, making it easier than ever to give back to local causes with confidence 365 days a year,” says Community Foundation President Erica Joseph. “Every gift made through Shore Gives 365 strengthens our local region and supports organizations doing meaningful work every day.”

In addition to expanding access all year, the platform provides participating nonprofits with ongoing visibility and digital fundraising support that extends far beyond a single day of giving. All organizations featured on Shore Gives 365 are verified.

Ocean City raises fines, penalties

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(Nov. 14, 2025) The Ocean City Council on Nov. 3 voted to adopt an ordinance that will result in increases to several fines and penalties.

“This is to amend multiple sections of the town code to increase municipal infractions and town misdemeanor fines and penalties,” City Solicitor Heather Stansbury said. “This is the ordinance that we discussed that increases the maximum amount of a fine up to $5,000. It rewrites a good portion of the penalty sections within the code for consistency.”

An increase in fine amounts follows the passage of a recent state law, which gives local governments the opportunity to increase the maximum penalties for violations of municipal laws from $1,000 to $5,000.

Additionally – not as a result of that particular legislation – local governments were recently given the right to increase the period of imprisonment for misdemeanors to six months.

With two changes at the state level, staff came before the City Council in September with a request to increase most fines and penalties to align with state law. However, as a result of discussions with various department heads, not all fines and penalties were increased to the maximum amount.

For example, violations of the city’s code involving the outdoor display of merchandise on the Boardwalk would result in an initial fine of $1,000 (an increase from $500). Only on the second violation would the fine increase to the maximum $5,000. Any further violations result in the suspension or revocation of a business license. In an-

other example, violations involving electric personal assistive mobility device rentals would result in a civil fine, which would increase from $500 to $1,000.

Back on the agenda last week, the City Council voted 5-0, with Councilmen Will Savage and Larry Yates absent, to adopt the code changes on second reading.

The City Council last week also agreed to hold a public hearing on a proposed charter amendment, which would allow officials to change listed fines and penalties.

“It makes the charter now consistent with the ordinance you just passed increasing fines,” Stansbury explained. “Our charter specifically listed the penalties and fines for misdemeanors. And now it is inconsistent.”

Police investigate West Ocean City check theft cases

(Nov. 14, 2025) The Ocean City Police Department began last Friday investigating several cases involving fraudulent checks.

According to a police social media post, officers learned that suspect(s) have been stealing checks from residential mailboxes in the West Ocean City area, then “washing” the checks and attempting to cash them at multiple banks across Worcester County.

A female suspect had been using a fraudulent Georgia driver’s license with the name Kimberly Williams at one point. She was last seen on Nov. 7 at approximately 10:15 a.m., in a silver SUV with an unknown Maryland license plate number.

If you know the individual photographed below or have any information regarding this investigation or possible check theft, please contact PFC C. Goggins at cgoggins@oceancitymd.gov or 410-723-6610. Anonymous tips may be left by calling 410-520-5136 or submitted via https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/departments/police/crime-tips. Please reference case number 2025-00-4466.

Ocean City police issued the following reminders to help prevent check theft and fraud.

• Deposit outgoing mail inside secure post office mailboxes or hand it directly to a postal carrier.

• Monitor your mail delivery and promptly remove incoming mail.

• Consider using electronic

pay when possible.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Ocean City police believe this unknown woman is an individual involved in an illegal check cashing operation.

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Berlin to clarify fire pit definitions and rules

Municipality’s open burning code confuses residents, town planning department

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(Nov. 13, 2025) Berlin officials are looking to clarify the town’s rules on backyard fire pits after residents expressed confusion over whether the fixtures fall under the town’s ban on open burning.

During Monday’s mayor and council meeting, staff and elected officials discussed updating the code to make the difference clear between recreational fire pits and burning debris. Staff will establish the definitions and standards to remove any uncertainty on what is and is not allowed within the Town of Berlin.

Ryan Hardesty, the town’s planning director, noted that at a previous council meeting, the question was raised about whether fire pits are allowed and if they fall under the outdoor burning article of the town code.

Councilman Jack Orris said the situation was brought up after he was approached by a resident who had received a citation, seeking some clarification over the allowance of backyard burning.

According to Hardesty, the municipality’s regulation states that, “except by special permit from the director of the planning and zoning department, no outside or open fires or burnings of any kind shall be permitted.”

“That wording kind of suggests that all outdoor fires, including fire pits, are either not permitted or only

allowed with a permit,” the planning director said.

Hardesty added that her department researched approximately 20 municipalities in Maryland to determine their rules and gain guidance on how to proceed with Berlin’s own fire pit standards.

Of the towns examined, 43% do not permit fire pits of any kind, 33% allow fire pits, and 24% will sanction fire pits with a permit. The districts that approved fire pits without a permit included restrictions like size, materials to be burned, and setbacks from buildings and property lines.

Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall said that he has had citizens reach out to him about the town’s rules and regulations for fire pits, and that he passes them along to the police or planning department. To remedy the confu-

sion on what is and isn’t sanctioned, the mayor stated that clear outlines should be created.

“We’re not talking s’mores in the backyard,” Tyndall said. “We’re talking about burning debris. Do I think setting guidelines should have a family have to contact the planning department every time they want to do s’mores outside? No. I think there should be a standard size and material. If you are seeking something outside of that norm, then it requires an application from the planning department.”

Berlin Town Administrator Mary Bohlen added that the current code could include restrictions on items such as barbecue grills and fires for family s’mores.

Staff and officials maintained that they would like to ensure that the updated standards clarify that these recreational activities are permitted without special authorization by the town, while larger debris burning would be outlawed, or allowed with exceptions.

“I don’t think any of us are interested in people coming into planning every Friday, going, ‘I’m going to have hamburgers tonight,’ Bohlen said.

Some definitions to determine what a fire pit actually is, the town administrator noted, should be included in the new guidelines.

“Fire pits, BBQ grills, very common throughout the United States, they definitely should be allowed as a non-permitted use,” said Councilman Jay Knerr. “But I do agree we need some definitions.”

“There definitely is a difference between recreational burning and open burning,” Hardesty echoed. “I think the clearer we can be, the better.”

Bohlen said that staff will look at creating an updated burning code to ensure residents and officials are clear on what type of fire fixtures are and are not allowed.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF BRIAN COXHILL

Two foxes are pictured at play (or sparring) in a marsh off 85th Street in Ocean City.

5pm-9pm

Resort throwing extravagant 150th birthday celebration

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(Nov. 14, 2025) The Town of Ocean City is rolling out the red carpet for a night of food, live music and history as it celebrates 150 years.

On Friday, Dec. 12, the Town of Ocean City will host its 150th Anniversary Gala at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center. Community members are invited to dress up, come out and celebrate the city’s history, all while raising money for the Stop Offshore Wind coalition.

“I feel like Ocean City is part of all of us for some reason,” event organizer Alex Grier said in an interview last week. “Some raise families here, some have wonderful careers here, and some come on vacation to enjoy the beach and the water. So it’s nice for everyone to come together and share their memories.”

Grier said attendees will be greeted by a red carpet and champagne as they enter the convention center for next month’s gala. Upstairs, guests will then have the opportunity to walk through the history of Ocean City through seven themed rooms, each with their own experiences.

In the oyster room, sponsored by the Harrison Group, there will be an oyster bar, beer tastings by Burley Oak Brewing Co., and live music by Island Fusion, as well as pictorial history of the city’s crabbing, oyster and fishing industries.

“We’ll also have some fishermen there talking about the industry, and also representatives from Stop Offshore Wind,” Grier said.

In the wine room, which will feature the history of Ocean City’s transportation systems, Windmill Creek will be doing wine tasting and samplings as a violinist plays in the background. In the bourbon and cigar room, Señor Cigars will be selling cigars and jazz music will play as Seacrets offers their spiced rum, bourbon, bourbon red pudding and rum cake.

“It will be a loungy setting,” Grier said.

The history of Ocean City’s hospitality industry will also be on display in the Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association room, where there will be an Orange Crush bar. In the Boardwalk room, attendees can learn more about the history of the promenade as The Dough Roller and Fisher’s Popcorn hand out samples and artist Randy Hoffman carves a sand sculpture.

In the Art League room, there will be a bubbly bar, tastings and a live painter, while the Candyland room will feature a dessert martini bar and samplings from Candy Kitchen, Wockenfuss and Dolle’s, which will bring its old-time taffy puller.

“They will be pulling the taffy and passing out samples,” Grier said.

(Nov. 14, 2025) The Art League of Ocean City invites the public to two free art classes where they will make wool “felted” creatures that will adorn the completed “Community Weaving Project.”

The classes are free for ages 13 through adult, and will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 12 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m., and on Sunday, Dec. 7 from 12-2 p.m. at the Ocean City Center for the Arts. Walk-ins are welcome, and pre-registration is available at OCart.org/classes.

The project came to life in 2024 by artist Beth Deeley of Ocean City, Md. A large Seascape Tapestry will be the end result of the project, created as individual small weavings by groups around the community, where each participant wove a row or two of the final tapestry. Deeley is now sewing the individual smaller panels together, and she will then add the felted creatures made at the Art League.

“Our year-long Community Weaving Project is almost done,” Deeley said. “Now we need help of the community to create special adornments to make the weaving come to life. No experience is necessary. Just bring your imagination and desire to learn.”

For the seascape theme of the tapestry, the public will create aquatic-themed creatures like crabs, snails, and seagulls. Once the tapestry is completed, it will be displayed in a special exhibition in 2026.

“The bigger purpose [of the Community Weaving Project] is connecting people together,” Deeley said. “The year-long project goal is to bring weaving and fiber art projects into the community to create connection and emphasize the power of group effort.”

Eastern Shore BioHealth

Continued from Page 28

Grier said historic photos will also line the corridor, which concludes with a Portrait Walk of Mayors and a 150-inch anniversary cake, made by local bakers. A buffet dinner, complete with crabcakes and a carving station, will be held in the Grand Ballroom. Dinner will be followed by dancing to Cherry Crush.

“We might even have a surprise finale at the end of the night,” she said.

The 150th Anniversary Gala will be held Dec. 12, from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at the convention center. Tickets are on sale for $150, and sponsorship tables (which includes 10 seats, an unlimited open bar and signage recognition) are on sale for $2,500.

For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit ococean.com. For sponsorship information, call 410-289-2800.

The gala is black tie optional. All proceeds will go to Stop Offshore Wind.

Jolly Roger parks announce annual Black Friday sale

(Nov. 14, 2025) The holiday season in Ocean City will kick off on Nov. 28 with the Jolly Roger Amusement Parks Black Friday sale from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the SpeedWorld Building on 30th Street. The sale will see up to 50% off all 2026 park passes and select merchandise.

“Black Friday is one of the most exciting days of the year for our team,” said Andy Fitts, park general manager of Jolly Roger Amusement Parks. “We love seeing familiar faces and welcoming new ones, all while helping families make memories that last long after the holidays. There’s truly no better way to get ready for summer in Ocean City.”

Guests can take advantage of halfprice passes for all Jolly Roger Pier and 30th Street locations, like SpeedWorld, Splash Mountain Water Park, Jolly Roger Amusement Park, and Mini Golf.

Customers can choose from 2-hour arm bands, unlimited daytime, or unlimited nighttime arm bands, plus Splash Mountain season passes.

The sale will feature outdoor firepits, on-site radio coverage from Froggy 99.9 and Ocean 98, and free refreshments.

Arts council will open new exhibit of miniature work

(Nov. 14, 2025) The Worcester County Arts Council has announced that its next exhibit, “Small Treasures,” will explore the beauty, intricacy and charm of miniature artworks.

The exhibition invited artists to explore the intimacy of small-scale creations, drawing viewers in with hidden details, delicate craftsmanship, and imaginative expression.

Artists produced various works, ranging from tiny landscapes and delicate portraits to intricate still lifes, abstract compositions, and miniature sculptures.

The juror for the competition, John Mosher, a multidisciplinary artist and associate professor of art at Salisbury University, reviewed each submission to select works that best capture the essence of Small Treasures.

The exhibit will be on display at the Worcester County Arts Council Gallery through Dec. 31.

An opening reception for the exhibit will be held on Friday, Nov. 14, from 4-6 p.m., with awards presented at 5 p.m.

“Small Treasures invites viewers to slow down and appreciate the detail and craftsmanship of miniature art,” said Anna Mullis, executive director of the Worcester County Arts Council. “We’re proud to showcase the talent and creativity of our local and regional artists in this unique and engaging exhibition.”

For more information visit www.worcestercountyartscouncil.org.

Council reviews plans for Town Hall renovation project

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(Nov. 13, 2025) Berlin officials reviewed updated plans for the longanticipated Town Hall renovation this week, with construction documents nearing completion, and the project expected to go out to bid in December.

The Town Hall project will address space concerns and the need for a centralized location for staff, updated safety elements and improve accessibility.

According to Daniele Haley of Haley Architecture, the West Ocean City firm handling the design and engineering aspects of the initiative, the newly renovated building will include a new elevator, new HVAC systems, (seven of the eight existing units are not operating correctly) automatic fire sprinklers, and asbestos and lead remediation.

The work will also include network, security, and fire alarm upgrades, as well as a rework of entrances to improve access for staff and residents during public meetings, and enhancements to the structure’s façade.

Haley said that for the building’s front on William Street, the plan is to

make some adjustments, as a result of space reconfiguration. For instance, double doors will be situated in the center of the facility, likely to act as the main entry point for large public meetings.

During citizen comments, Sara Hambury asked if the door relocation was essential, noting that she believes it could be a waste of money. Haley said that while it may not be a requirement, it would offer a sizable egress for open mayor and council assemblies.

“I think the double doors for a large meeting will be the main egress point,” the architect said. “I think the double doors, the fire marshal probably agrees, is a safety thing.”

The façade upgrades may also include updated signage and aesthetic cornice work. While Hambury argued this addition seems to be more of a want than a need, Haley maintained that this decorative aspect of the project is to “restore the historic town hall to how it originally looked,” as the original building used to contain a cornice, fostering the municipality's commitment to conserving Berlin’s Victorian charm.

Haley will go before the Berlin

See TOWN Page 32

Town Hall upgrades aim to improve building

Historic District Commission on Dec. 3 to seek approval for the façade enhancements.

The town hall project also includes renovating the existing planning and zoning building, which may eventually house the economic and community development department, to be moved from the Berlin Welcome Center at 14 S. Main Street.

Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall said that the hope is to centralize staff for further collaboration and ease of servicing.

“It's easier when we have staff cen-

trally located,” he said. “If we have someone coming in for a new business and needs permits as well as economic development, we’re sending them everywhere. This is to, hopefully, make it easier for folks. You have planning there, economic development here, and finance if needed. Everything is here and available for customers.”

The improvements to the planning and zoning building are not yet finalized. Haley said that they are keeping the intended work as a possible component of the overall town hall proj-

ect, to be completed only if the budget allows. If the financials shake out, however, the initiative could include the creation of new economic development offices, efficient HVAC units, new lighting, a network upgrade, security and fire alarm upgrades, a new welcome center space, and asbestos and lead remediation.

Tyndall added that the project’s price tag is “speculative,” as the town hall is an old building, so issues are bound to be uncovered. Officials intend to keep the scope of the work at roughly $2.5 million.

“We’re trying to find every grant source that we can and a revenue stream that’s possible to assist with the project,” Tyndall said, noting that Maryland Energy Administration grants may offset HVAC and efficiency costs.”

Haley said early contractor estimates suggest the project remains “within striking distance” of the town’s budget. The tentative schedule calls for putting the project out to bid on Dec. 8, awarding a contract in January, and completing construction by next September.

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COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH GRANT AWARDED

The Coastal Association of Realtors gave a $750 grant to the Art League of Ocean City to support the nonprofit's After-School Art Clubs in Worcester Co. Public Schools. Art League Development Director Jessica Bauer and Education Director Mary Anne Cooper accepted the grant from Sharyn O'Hare of the Coastal Association of Realtors.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH VETS RECOGNIZED

Each year the Germantown School Community Heritage Center celebrates veterans with a special veterans exhibit presenting a distinct time in the history of the country. Last year the center celebrated the women of the 6888. Prior years have honored World War II and Korean Veterans. This year the Germantown School is excited and proud to honor the veterans of the Vietnam War and era. The exhibit will open on Nov. 15 and will run through January 2026. The opening event will be held on Nov. 15, 10 a.m.-noon, and will include Dr Clara Small (professor emerita, Salisbury University) with a brief history followed by Veterans' shared stories. Veterans are encouraged to come and, if willing, share their stories. For more information, email germantownschool@gmail.com or call 410-641-0638. The event is free and open to the public. Reservations are recommended as space is limited. The Germantown School is located in Berlin, Maryland, 10223 Trappe Rd. Pictured with their banners recognizing their service to the country are local residents Larry Duffy, Gabe Purnell and Tom Pitts.

GUEST SPEAKER

Captain

BOY SCOUT DONATION

Local Boy Scout #225 packaged over

The

will be

need locally and regionally. If anyone needs

tance with obtaining a pair, please contact the Berlin Lions Club.

District Governor Dale Kerns

learned about the district-led activities to address the

food

and shared ideas on how individual clubs can host events locally. As a thank you to

the club made a donation in her name to Polio Plus. The club meets the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month at 6pm at the Ocean Pines Branch of the Worcester County Library on Cathell Rd.,

For more information email ocberlinrotary@gmail.com

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

300 pairs of eyeglasses that were donated to Berlin Lions Club.

glasses

distributed to those in

assis-

SUBMITTED

The Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club volunteers visited Pocomoke Elementary School to fingerprint five kindergarten classes for the Youth ID/Fingerprinting Program to further maintain the safety of local children. Pictured, from left, are Kevin O’Rourke, Lt. Governor and Treasurer Cynthia Malament, Mitch Frances, Larry Campbell, Paul Cook, Amanda Koontz, Secretary Jodi Seibenberg and Membership Chairman Roger Pacella.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH ROTARY CLUB HOSTS DISTRICT GOV.

(seated far right) recently visited the Ocean City-Berlin Rotary Club. Members

rising

insecurity in the area

Kerns,

Berlin.

Tom Ottenwaelder (retired U.S. Coast Guard) and owner of Guardian Marine Services, an NSBC Certified Instructor and Marine Surveyor spoke at Novembers Ocean Pines Anglers Club meeting. Ottenwaelder, left, was thanked by meeting administrator Rick Kuhar.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH

vanishing vanishing OCEAN CITY

With Bunk Mann

This photo depicts the corner of Caroline Street and Philadelphia Avenue in 1930. The homemade tennis court was on the west side of the home of Irving Mumford, who was famous for taking a daily dip in the ocean which he did on a year-round basis regardless of the weather. The sign on the large brown house reads “The Caroline,” a popular boarding house in that area. The two smaller houses in the background were on North Division Street, the site of the 7-Eleven store today.

Caroline and North Division streets were residential neighborhoods in those days and the Route 50 Bridge, which funnels thousands of cars through there today on a daily basis, was over a decade in the future.

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

Starting a bike ride against the wind

Ending a bike ride with the wind

A quick grocery store run

When athletes retire and help others

Exploring a new town

Coming home to a clean house after work

Children running home off a school bus

Route 90’s foliage this time of year

Hanging holiday lights on a warm fall day

Chili and football

A collection of dad jokes

To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com.

courtesy of Frances Mumford

Photo

Program aims to fight community food insecurity

(Nov. 14, 2025) The Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore (CFES) and the Richard A. Henson Foundation have announced the launch of the Feeding Our Neighbors Fund, a rapid-response funding initiative supporting nonprofit organizations that provide direct meal assistance or food/groceries in Wicomico, Worcester, and Somerset counties. The program is made possible through a $250,000 gift from the Richard A. Henson Foundation with grants administered by the Community Foundation.

With ongoing economic challenges, reductions in food assistance benefits, and the recurring rise in local need during the winter months, many households across the Lower Shore are facing increased food insecurity. The Feeding Our Neighbors grant program will support organizations responding to these urgent needs while also reinforcing longterm stability in meal access.

“For 35 years, The Richard A. Henson Foundation has stepped up to respond to local needs and honor Mr. Henson’s priorities,” said Stacey McMichael, executive director of the Richard A. Henson Foundation. With the rising demand for food resources in our region, the Trustees and I knew it was not the time to wait, but to act. The Community Foundation has been able to help us realize this vision and we are thankful that many will benefit from the Feeding Our Neighbors Fund.”

Within hours of the program opening, the Community Foundation saw a surge in grant applications, validating the significant regional need. Grant awards will range from $2,500 to $10,000, with applications accepted on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted. Eligible programs include food pantries and soup kitchens, including school or university pantries; prepared meals offered as part of programming such as after-school or transitional housing programs; meal deliveries and homebound meal services; and shelter or community meal programs.

“Food insecurity is not a shortterm issue, and meeting this need requires both immediate relief and stability for the organizations doing the work,” Community Foundation President Erica Joseph said. “By directing funding to existing programs with strong community roots, we are helping sustain the nonprofit infrastructure that families rely on every day. This program supports the hereand-now while also reinforcing the systems that will continue to nourish our community into the future.”

To learn more or apply to the grant program, visit CFES.org/grants. To support this initiative, visit CFES.org/donate.

Berlin to roll out car tag program

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(Nov. 14, 2025) Berlin residents will soon have the opportunity to sport a town custom license plate on their cars and trucks through an initiative to raise money for a proposed community center.

At a mayor and council meeting in Berlin this week, staff presented the new tag program to officials, seeking direction on style, and offering timelines and details about the project.

According to Linda Johnston, a member of the Town of Berlin’s finance department, the municipality must design the specialty plate, which is then submitted for review by the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA).

Once the license plate configuration gets the green light, Berlin residents will be able to complete an application for

their own specialty car tag. The form will include a fee to be put towards the cost of the proposed Berlin community center.

Officials said that the price for the plate would be around $30, likely a bit more, to secure as many donation dollars as possible for the center.

“We have talked about this multiple times; this is just moving that ball forward,” Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall said. “It’s likely that the tags will be more expensive to add the donation component to the program.”

Officials decided that the left side of the plate would include the town logo, an anchor, and to the right of that image would be the letters ‘BER.’ As required by the MVA, ‘Maryland’ will be written across the top. The municipality may opt to put ‘Town of Berlin’ at the bottom of the tag.

Staff will create a mockup to be pre-

sented at a later date. The finance department will return with more details.

Once the design receives approval from the MVA, applications for the new tags will be available to citizens. The town requires an initial 25 requests to proceed with the program. Once the first batch of forms is collected, Berlin staff will order the tags from the MVA.

A recreational and functional space the custom tag program seeks to support has been a dream of municipality officials and residents for decades.

That wish moved closer to fruition over the past few years, particularly when four parcels of property on Flower Street were combined to be the site of the new center through a partnership between the Town of Berlin, the Berlin Community Improvement Association (BCIA), SHOREUP! Inc., and the Worcester County Commissioners.

Best Beats On The Beach

Who’s Where When

BUXY’S SALTY DOG & DRY DOCK 28

410-289-BUXY

28th Street Coastal Hwy. Saturday, November 15: Muskrat Lightning

CAPTAIN’S TABLE

410-289-7192

15th & Boardwalk In The Courtyard Marriott

Fridays & Saturdays: Phil Perdue

COINS PUB

410-289-3100

28th Street Plaza On Coastal Hwy. Friday, November 14: Beach Bandits Duo

Saturday, November 15: Cup Of Joe

CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE

302-988-5000 37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54, Selbyville, DE

Friday, November 14: Loud Moon

Wednesday, November 19: Cup Of Joe

CRAWL STREET TAVERN

443-373-2756

Wicomico St., Downtown O.C.

Friday, November 14: LNJ Sessions

Saturday, November 15: Fuzzbox Piranha

FAGER’S ISLAND

410-524-5500

60th St., In The Bay Friday, November 14: Sons Of Pirates & DJ RobCee

Saturday, November 15: The Chucks & DJ Vybe

Monday, November 17: Bryan Clark

DJ ROBCEE Fager’s Island: Friday, November 14

BRYAN CLARK Fager’s: Monday, November 17

DJ BILLY T Harborside: Fridays

PHIL PERDUE Captain’s Table: Fridays & Saturdays

DJ BIGLER Harborside: Saturday, November 15

DJ WAX Pickles Pub: Tuesdays

CUP OF JOE Coins Pub: Saturday, November 15 Crabcake Factory Bayside: Wednesday, November 19

CARLEY TWIGG Seacrets: Thursday, November 20

SONS OF PIRATES

Fager’s Island: Friday, Nov. 14

TURNING THE TIDE

Seacrets: Saturday, Nov. 15

THE DUNEHOUNDS

Harborside: Saturday, Nov. 15

Nov. 14

15

Who’s Where When

GREENE TURTLE WEST

410-213-1500

Route 611, West OC

Friday, November 14: TBA

HARBORSIDE

410-213-1846

South Harbor Rd., West End O.C. Friday, November 14: DJ Billy T Saturday, November 15: The Dunehounds & DJ Bigler

Sunday, November 16:

Opposite Directions

Thursdays: Dust N Bones

PICKLES PUB

410-289-4891

8th St. & Philadelphia Ave. Fridays: Beats By Deogee Saturday, November 15:

Marlin City Madmen

Sundays: Beats By Styler

Mondays: Karaoke w/ Wood

Tuesdays: Beats By Wax

Wednesdays: Beats By Madame Dutchess

Thursdays: Beats By Connair

SEACRETS

410-524-4900

49th St. & Coastal Hwy. Friday, November 14: Opposite Directions, Trivia Night, DJ Davie & Vertigo Red Saturday, November 15: Full Circle, DJ Connair, DJ E-State & Turning The Tide Thursday, November 20: Carley Twigg

BEACH BANDITS DUO Coins Pub: Friday, Nov. 14

MUSKRAT LIGHTNING Dry Dock 28: Saturday, Nov.

FUZZBOX PIRANHA Crawl Street Tavern: Saturday, Nov. 15

MARLIN CITY MADMEN Pickles Pub: Saturday, Nov. 15

LOUD MOON

Crabcake Factory Bayside: Friday,

Dining Guide

■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$

■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted

DOWNTOWN

South end to 28th Street

■ BUXY’S SALTY DOG SALOON

DRY DOCK 28

28th Street, Ocean City, 410-289-0973, buxys.com, drydockoc.com

Destiny has a new home in Ocean City. From the ‘burgh to the beach, Buxy’s is your home away from Pittsburgh. Come see what all the locals already know and have known – Buxy’s is the place to come to meet friends, relax and be social with no attitudes. House specialties include “The” Cheesesteak Sub, Primanti-styled sandwiches, pierogis, egg-rolls and homemade crab dip. Dry Dock also features a full menu with soups, salads, kick starters, pierogis and craft pizza.

■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE

15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, in The Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City 410-2897192, captainstableoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

A local tradition for over 60 years featuring hand cut steaks, premium lobster and perfectly prepared regional seafood. Breakfast daily

7:30-11 a.m. Open daily for dinner: Sunday through Thursday, 4-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4-10 p.m. Happy Hour, seven days a week, 4-6 p.m.

■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT

28th Street Plaza and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100, www.coinspuboc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

American style local restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. Sunday’s early bird specials, all day and all night. Happy Hour; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. with food and drink specials. Open Monday through Friday, 2 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 11:30 a.m. Dine-in, carry out.

■ CORAL REEF RESTAURANT & BAR

17th Street in the Holiday Inn & Suites, Ocean City 410-289-2612, coralreefrestaurant.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Enjoy traditional Eastern Shore cuisine and local favorites that are sure to please your entire party! Choose from a selection of house specialty entrees such as sharables, handhelds and seafood. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Featuring specialty rums. Open daily, 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

■ CRAWL STREET

19 Wicomico St., Ocean City, 443-373-2756, crawlstreet.com

Established in 2020 just a short walk from the legendary Cork Bar. Don’t leave without trying the famous wings, but everything on the menu is solid, including flatbreads, tacos, salads, sandwiches and seafood platters. Be sure to check out the live music offerings as the nightlife is top of the line.

■ DISTRICT 24 CRAFT BAR, JAY’S CAFÉ & BLU CRABHOUSE & RAW BAR

2305 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City 410-2893322, district24oc.com

There is more at District 24. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, pastries and coffee at Jay’s Cafe. CRAFT Pizza, Beer & Cocktails at CRAFT Lounge. Fresh Seafood at BLU Crabhouse & Raw Bar. Enjoy an elevated dining experience with great chophouse dishes and charcuterie boards, along with a Wine Spectator Award Wining Wine Menu at Embers Rooftop Restaurant. There is something for everyone at District 24 like live music in the courtyard, mini golf, arcade play and axe throwing.

■ HARBOR WATCH

806 S. Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City 410-2895121, www.harborwatchrestaurant.com

$$-$$$ | Reservations | Kids’ Menu | Full bar

Celebrating our 41st anniversary with fresh seafood, an award-winning raw bar, mouthwatering steaks and the best view of the Ocean City Inlet and Assateague Island. Open Thursday through Sunday at 11:30 a.m. Call for banquet and large-party details.

■ PICKLES PUB

706 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 410-2894891, picklesoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Easy to find with plenty of free parking, serving lunch, dinner and entire diverse menu until 1 a.m. Also nightly entertainment year-round and a great place to watch all the sports on an ocean of televisions including a giant high-def screen. Also four pool tables on site. Lunch and dinner and entire menu until 1 a.m. Open all year from 11:30 a.m.-2 a.m., seven days a week.

■ PIT & PUB

2706 Philadelphia Ave. and 12701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, pitandpub.com

Ocean City’s home of Pulled Pork and the finest barbecue, the legendary 28th Street Pit & Pub and the Northside Pit & Pub are known for serving up delicious smokehouse specialties. Grab a brew and enjoy the live sports action on one of the big screen TVs. Happy hour daily. Familyfriendly atmospheres at both locations. Weekend entertainment.

MIDTOWN

29th to 90th streets

■ 32 PALM 32nd Street in The Hilton, Ocean City 410-2892525, 32palm.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Elevated cuisine, locally sourced ingredients and allocated spirits are prominently featured in our lounge and dining room. Open year-round for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Routinely updated menus with the highest quality local ingredients for fresh seafood any time of the year!

■ THE BONFIRE

71st Street, Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, 410524-7171, thebonfirerestaurant.com

Celebrating more than 50 years as the best seafood and prime rib buffet in Ocean City. It’s all here – the service, the atmosphere and finest, freshest seafood available and quality meats. Save room for the decadent desserts available as well including homemade donuts.

■ FAGERS ISLAND

201 60th St., Ocean City, 410-524-5500, fagers.com

$$ | Full bar

Dine on the island with an award-winning bayfront restaurant featuring American & Regional dining with a global influence and popular destination featuring impeccably prepared American and Pacific Rim cuisine. Also enjoy our outdoor decks and bar with live entertainment and 32 wines by the glass. A place where the joy of food & the presence of the table are of utmost importance. Dine on fresh seafood and our famous Prime Rib. Enjoy beautiful sunsets over the water. Open 11 a.m. daily. Fine dine at 4:30 p.m.

■ HOOKED

8003 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410-7234665, hookedoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

A Common Ground Hospitality concept, a passion driven restaurant group servicing the coastal community. The goal is honor creativity and innovation by design. With passion at the heart of everything, unique dining concepts are paired with honest hospitality and well-made food sourced with fresh local ingredients and seasonal harvests. Craft and full bar available.

Open daily 11:30 a.m.

■ LONGBOARD CAFÉ

6701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 443-6645693, longboardcafe.com

$$-$$$ | Full bar

Casual Dining … Refined. Open for lunch and dinner. A wide range of gourmet burgers, innovative tacos, salads and sandwiches to full dinner entrees featuring fresh local fish prepared in a variety of styles, beef, shellfish and pasta. All our sauces, salsas, dressings, etc. are meticulously house made. We use fresh local sources wherever possible and premium ingredients such as our chuck, brisket and short rib custom blended burgers. Closed Tuesday. Call for reservations.

■ MARLIN MOON RESTAURANT

3301 Atlantic Ave., in the Double Tree Hotel, Ocean City 410-289-1201, marlinmoonocmd.com

$$ | Full bar

Winner of the Maryland People's choice award, Marlin Moon continues to offer its famous, lo-

cally 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

■ ALBERTINO'S BRICK OVEN & EATERY

13117 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410-2502000, albertinosoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Featuring the best brick oven pizza, always handmade with fresh ingredients, Italian-American mouth-watering seafood specialties, traditional Italian pasta dishes, apps, soups and salads. Full bar with large local craft beer selection.

■ CAROUSEL OCEANFRONT HOTEL & CONDOS 118th Street, Ocean City 800-641-0011, www.carouselhotel.com

The Carousel Oceanfront Resort offers a family friendly casual dining experience with their Reef 118 restaurant. Offering dinner Thursday through Saturday from 5-9 p.m., featuring AYCE Crab legs. Serving breakfast on Fridays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. Their new "Go for 2" happy hour features $10 appetizers as a buy one get one free. $1 oysters during all open hours.

■ THE CRAB BAG

13005 Coastal Highway Ocean City, 410-2503337, thecrabbag.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Featuring consistent hot steamed crabs, eat in or carryout. The Crab Bag is also an Eastern Shore style seafood house specializing in preparing and serving the biggest and the best blue crabs available. The extensive menu promises something for everyone. Winter hours, Friday-Sunday, open 11 a.m.

■ CRABCAKE FACTORY USA

120th Street, oceanside, Ocean City, 410-2504900, crabcakefactoryusa.com

Full-service family restaurant, carry-out and sports bar. Outside seating available. Menu selections include prime rib, chicken Chesapeake, steamed shrimp, beer battered fish, real Philly cheesesteaks, burgers, and a kids menu. Casual attire, full liquor bar, no reservations. Open Year Round. World-Famous Crabcakes are served all day starting at 8 a.m. and can be packed on ice for you while you are eating breakfast.

■ CHESAPEAKE & CAPRI

9800 Coastal Highway Plaza Condominium, Ocean City 443-664-6147

Enjoy oceanfront dining, mouth-watering dishes and handcrafted cocktails. Our menu is designed to delight. Amazing food with an ocean front view. Thursday and Sunday, $21 entrée specials like blacked rockfish and several pasta dishes. Open Thursday through Sunday at 4 p.m. Happy hour offered in the offseason from 4-6 p.m. Located on the first floor of the Plaza with plenty of free, convenience parking.

■ VISTA ROOFTOP RESTAURANT

13801 Coastal Highway, located in the Fenwick Inn, Ocean City, 410-390-7905, vistarooftopoc.com

$$-$$$ | Full bar

Enjoy a wonderful meal overlooking the ocean and bay. Some of the most unique views in Ocean City. Steaks, seafood, burgers, soups, salads and lite fare. Happy hour, 3-6 p.m. New this year is a boozy brunch Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Live music.

FENWICK ISLAND

■ CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE

Route 54, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-988-5000, CCFBayside.com

Same award-winning crab cakes and bloody marys. Enjoy waterfront dining. Full-service family restaurant, carry-out & sports bar. Outside

seating available. Open daily year-round. Menu selections include crab cakes, prime rib, Phillystyle cheese steaks, various seafood, kids menu plus full breakfast menu.

■ 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 19 years. Popular for the breakfast but getting rave reviews for lunch and dinner, too.

■ NANTUCKETS

Route 1, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-539-2607, nantucketsrestaurant.com

Serving the beach great food and spirits for over 30 years. David and Janet Twining will wow you with the finest foods and drinks in the area. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by what one of the coast’s finest dining establishments has in store for guests. Everything here is a house specialty.

■ TWINING’S LOBSTER SHANTY Rte. 54, Fenwick Island, Del., 302-436-2305, twiningshanty.com

Reservations | Kids’ Menu

“A funky little place at the edge of town.” Classic New England fare, lobsters, steaks and burgers. Bird watching and magical sunsets await. Open for lunch and dinner. Reservations are suggested.

WEST OCEAN CITY

■ ASSATEAGUE BAR AND GRILL

9636 Stephen Decatur Highway, West Ocean City 443-664-8158, abarngrill.com

$$ | Full bar

Full service, family friendly, casual dining to please everyone. Offering breakfast lunch and dinner with breakfast being served all day. Classic American cuisine with a selection of delicious Maryland favorites. Happy hour everyday from 1-6 p.m. with bar specials and tasty bites. Daily specials Monday through Friday. Dine-in and carry-out.

■ BREAKFAST CAFE

12736 Ocean Gateway, Route 50 east, West Ocean City, 410-213-1804, breakfastcafeofoc.com

All the traditional breakfast options available here in a casual, diner setting. Open daily closing at 2 p.m.

■ CANTINA LOS AGAVES MEXICAN GRILL 12720 Ocean Gateway #7, West Ocean City 410-390-3914, cantinalosagaves.com

$$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar

Ocean City’s newest Mexican restaurant and bar. Offering delicious and generous portions of the tastiest traditional and not so traditional #MexicanEats you have ever tried. Open 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 ‘40sstyle décor takes you back in time. With locations throughout Ocean City, treating your tastebuds to this signature homemade ice cream is easy. The 123rd Street location offers lunch and dinner menus in addition to a wide variety of ice cream treats.

■ GREENE TURTLE WEST Route 611, West Ocean City, 410-213-1500 Proudly serving West Ocean City since January 1999, The Greene Turtle features a beautiful 80-seat dining room, large bar area with 54 TVs with stereo sound and game room with pool tables. With an exciting menu, The Greene Turtle is sure to please with delicious sizzling steaks, jumbo lump crab cakes, raw bar, homemade salads and more. Live entertainment, Keno, Turtle apparel, kids menu, carry-out.

■ HARBORSIDE BAR & GRILL

12841 Harbor Rd., West Ocean City, 410-2131846, weocharborside.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Home of the original Orange Crush drink with an extensive menu offers a wide variety of appetizers, fresh seafood, steak & pasta entrees, as well as juicy burgers and sandwiches. Whether seeking a full dining experience or just a crush or two, the team will be sure to take excellent care of you and yours. Monday-Wednesday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thursday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; FridaySaturday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Members of the Ocean Pines Ladies & Men’s Golf Association presented a fundraising donation to Atlantic General Hospital recently, representing the proceeds from its recent golf tournament.

Annual golf tourney raises $18K

(Nov. 7, 2025) This year’s Pink Lady Golf Tournament, hosted by the Ocean Pines Ladies Golf Association, raised a total of $18,657.83, the association announced this week.

Money raised from the tournament help pay for mammograms for women who are unable to afford those services. The tournament began 14 years ago and has brought in over $25,000 to the Women’s Imaging Center over the years.

The association also thanked the businesses, people and organizations that helped make the tournament pos-

sible:

Stacie Swanstrom, Summit Exteriors LLC; Bloomfield Foundation; Pines Point Provisions; Touch of Italy, Bob Ciprietti; Gina Nairn, Sunny Dawn; Perfect Face, Donna McElroy, Tim Floyd, American Legion, Haly Architect, Ocean Pines ROC Edition and Frick Electric.

Also, Tiffanie Adkins, Patuxent Insurance Co, Geri & Alfred Fasulo, Park Place Jewelers, The Berlin Beer Company, Forgotten 50, Smashed, East & Main, Norma Kessler, Delmarva Phys-

ical Therapy, Nielsen/Platt, Designing Windows, Adkins Interiors, Patti Jeans, Tractor Supply, Sterling Tavern, Salon Sixteen, and Massage Envy.

Serving on the OPLGA Committee were Denise Stevens, OPLGA president; Donna Kelly, OPLGA vice president; Ann Shockley, OPLGA secretary; Colette Horn, OPLGA treasurer; Kathy Monaco, OPLGA event coordinator; and members Carol Smith, Kitty Sawchak, Cheryl Florin, Jane Scuto, Donna McElroy, Catie Sostak, Lisa McNamara, Gina Morris, and Roberta Bragunier.

by Steve Green

TThe Adventures of Fatherhood

he college decision process has officially entered the serious stage in our house.

We seem to be in that period when something compelling arrives in the mail every day addressed to Beckett, our 17-year-old high school senior. Letters, brochures, postcards, and thick envelopes — all promising opportunity, adventure, and a sense of belonging. It’s exciting, a little overwhelming, and emotional for all of us.

Early in this journey, Beckett decided he wanted to stay within a reasonable drive of home. We focused on schools within roughly an eight-hour radius of Berlin. Close enough for weekend visits, but far enough to give him independence. For a long stretch, we thought we knew where he wanted to go. There was one school that seemed to check every box — strong academics, a beautiful campus, a major he liked, and an environment that felt right.

We visited that particular college multiple times over the past year. Each time, Beckett seemed more comfortable and more confident that it might be the right fit. Pam and I liked it, too — the people, the feel of the campus, and the opportunities it seemed to offer. We could easily see him there finding his own way.

Then came the most recent campus visit last weekend — the third and what we thought would be the final one before decision time. We approached it as the confirmation trip, the one that would seal the deal and bring some peace to the process. But it turned out to have the opposite effect. Something about this visit shifted things for Beckett. Instead of walking away excited and sure, he came home uncertain and conflicted.

We could sense it right away on the drive back. When we asked how he felt, his answer was honest but hesitant: “I don’t know anymore.” That’s not easy for a parent to hear but it’s real — and it’s fair.

We spent the first hour of the long ride home unpacking his thoughts. Some of what he shared surprised us, and some made perfect sense. There were aspects of campus life and the culture of the school that he hadn’t noticed before. A few interactions during the visit gave him pause. There wasn’t one major negative, just a collection of small things that added up. It was clear his perception had changed and so had his excitement level.

We decided not to push. Pam and I have been through enough as parents to know that forcing a decision, especially one this important, never works out well. We told him it’s fine to be unsure — that confusion is part of the process.

So for now, we’re taking a break from college talk. That’s easier said than done when the mail keeps delivering shiny envelopes every day, but it’s necessary. Beckett needs some space to breathe and think. We’ll visit a few more schools most likely, wait on some application results, and let him explore online and talk with current students if he wants.

Truthfully, Pam and I were rooting for the school he just visited. It felt like a great fit from a parent’s perspective — good size, great reputation, safe campus, and only a few hours from home. It checked all the adult boxes. But this isn’t our decision to make. He has to be the one who walks onto that campus next fall and feels like it’s his place. This is one of those moments where parenting requires restraint — the hard kind, where you stay quiet even when you think you know best.

I think what Beckett is feeling right now is a mix of pressure and possibility. The magnitude of the decision is sinking in. Choosing a college isn’t just about picking a school — it’s about choosing the first version of your adult life. Where you’ll live, who you’ll meet, and what kind of person you’ll start becoming. That’s a lot to carry at 17. Add in the fact

that he’s also trying to figure out what he wants to study, and the uncertainty multiplies. He doesn’t yet know what he wants to be when he grows up — and honestly, very few of us did at that age. What I admire most is that he’s thoughtful about it. He’s not chasing status or following his friends. He wants to feel connected to wherever he ends up. That tells me he’s looking for more than just a college — he’s looking for a community, a place where he can belong and grow.

As a parent, watching this process unfold is a strange mix of pride, nostalgia, and helplessness. I can still remember helping him pick out his backpack for kindergarten and now here we are, talking about dorms and majors and meal plans. The passage of time feels especially sharp in these moments. You realize your child isn’t really a child anymore, but not yet fully an adult either — and this in-between stage is as challenging for us as it is for them.

There’s a part of me that wants to tell him it’ll all work out no matter what, and another part that wants to freeze time and keep him home a little longer. That’s the emotional tug-of-war of parenting a senior. You want them to go, but you also want them to stay. You want it to be the right choice, but also understanding one in every four college freshman do not graduate from the original place.

This time of life is full of big questions — about the future, about identity, about independence — and it’s okay not to have all the answers yet. Sometimes the uncertainty itself is a sign of growth. In the meantime, we’ll keep checking the mailbox every afternoon, knowing that each new envelope represents one more possibility for Beckett’s future. And when the right school reveals itself — as I believe it will — he’ll feel it.

(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.)

Factors leading to good, surfable wave formations

By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer

(Nov. 14, 2025) By nature surfers are different and it’s because of nature that surfers are different. They pay attention to many factors regarding the natural world having to due with the formation of waves and their quality.

Generally speaking, weather, and detailed factors of weather, become the largest issues. Surfers are dependent on these issues for their area of activity or playing field. Wind has to blow across water to create a swell either near or far from a shoreline. If winds are near to the shore, a wind swell will be the reference. If winds are far from shore, a ground swell will be spoken of. A general rule of thumb will be roughly 100 miles from a shoreline. Within 100 miles a wind swell will be the swell source. Beyond the 100-mile distance a ground swell will be the source of swell.

Waves from wind swells will produce a shorter period between waves whereas waves from a ground swell will have a longer wave period. The longer period will usually have a better quality. It’s typical for a “swell” to have components of both wind and ground swell. Thus the astute surfer will pay attention to wind; near or far, its direction and velocity.

Once a swell engages with a shoreline, waves will have the potential to break and become surf able, with other factors coming into the mix. Local winds along the shoreline will become one of these factors. Bottom contours will also become an ingredient with our coast, being mostly sand, relying on the collection of sand into sandbars in order for the hopeful swell to have a “reason” to break, thus becoming a wave to potentially be surfed. Tides will also enter into this mix. Most of the time an incoming tide will be best with our sand bottom beaches.

Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City

HOMES

Delaware

Acadia Landing LEWES, DE

Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Upper $400s

Coming Soon Single Family Homes

Bridgewater FRANKFORD, DE

Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Mid $500s

deer creek LINCOLN, DE

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four winds farm LTTON, DE

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High Tide at lighthouse bay

OCEAN CITY, , MD

ballenger creek HARBESON, DE

forest landing ELLENDALE, DE

Heritage creek LTTON, DE

Final Opportunity Single Family Homes from the Upper $400s

rtty east MILLSBORO, DE

Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Low $400s

Milos Haven FRANKFORD, DE

Final Opportunity Villas from the Low $400s

Newdale acres ELLENDALE, DE

Now Selling Single Family Homes and Toownhomes from the Low $300s

Pelican Point MILLSBORO, , DE

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rtton Chase MILLSBORO, , DE

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lakeside at trappe

TRAPPE, MD

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the oaks GEORGETOWN, DE

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vines creek crossing FRANKFORD, DE

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Plantation Lakes ryyClub

Golf & Countr

MILLSBORO, , DE

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Westwood MILFORD, DE

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CAMBRIDGE, MD

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Now Selling Single Family Homes, Villas, Toownhomes from the Upper $200s

SCHOOLS ‘ADOPTED’

The Ocean CityBerlin Rotary Club has “adopted” the six Pre-K3 classes at Buckingham Elementary, Ocean City Elementary and Showell Elementary, using funds secured by a Rotary District Grant. Club members made their initial visit to the classrooms, distributing snacks, water bottles, thermos bottles, paper products, Pull-Ups and storage bins. The club will be visiting and supplying snacks and other needed supplies throughout this school year. Pictured with the teachers and students are Rotarians Cliff Berg, Lou Ann Danner and Margaret Mudron. The club meets the first and third Wednesday of the month at the Ocean Pines Library.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH

CROSSWORD

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Insecurity may be sparking some hesitation, Aries. The key to coping is figuring out why you are feeling this way. Is it a trust issue or lack of recognition?

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, creative pursuits may hold your interest this week. Even if you lean more towards the practical, an artistic streak flows through you as well.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Working with others may prove challenging this week, Gemini. You may be too focused on a singular task. If this is the case, keep to yourself if you can.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

The week’s planetary influences could increase your sensitivity to everything right now, Cancer. You might feel a little more sentimental or even weepy

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, obsessive thinking may be something you need to consider this week. There’s a fine line between determination and obsession, so consider your fixations and how to fix them.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

It can be easy to confuse impulsivity with spontaneity, Virgo. But one requires more thought than the other. Think through everything before acting if you want to play it safe.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

It might be time to take a more measured approach to solving a difficult problem, Libra. If you’ve made several attempts with no success, it could be time to dig in.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, tap into your creativity to unblock your emotions this week. This can be a powerful tool in your arsenal. Creativity is a big part of you.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

You may get to focus on fun this week, Sagittarius. Look into your social calendar and seek ways to liven things up a little.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Everyone can use some time alone every once in a while, Capricorn. But it’s important to socialize as well. Look to Aquarius to help you find balance.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Certain situations require a little more focus than they otherwise might, Aquarius. Bear down and do your best to block out distractions.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Don’t pick yourself to pieces this week, Pisces. Criticizing yourself will get you nowhere. You have a lot to offer and others recognize the value of your input.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

A seasonal apple cider crush

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer

(Nov. 14, 2025) Locals and tourists know Orange Crushes are the drink to be. But adult beverages should change just as well as the menu.

Apples, pumpkins, and squashes are flourishing, so why not highlight one of these favorite ingredients for your fall merriment.

Just recently, we hosted a wedding at our Woodbine, Maryland wedding venue, and the bride’s drink of choice was an apple cider crush. And I immediately thought what a clever drink for this time of the year.

So, I did a little research and a forced myself to a tasting of apple cider crushes and am passing on the results.

First and foremost, only use good quality apple cider as opposed to apple juice. Apple cider is unfiltered and has a stronger and tangier flavor. In other words, it has more depth of flavor.

Ice is the next subject at hand. It is a no brainer that an apple cider crush is going to require crushed ice.

Anybody that reads my column knows that I am a stickler for specifics. In fact, the smaller the detail, the more important it is.

So, one might be wondering, “What is so important about crushed ice?” If you fill an ice tray with water and apple cider, you will end up with a tastier beverage.

Crushed ice has a tendency to melt faster which can dilute the ingredients. Apple cider ice solves the problem. This step is optional but is recommended for those who are perfectionists.

Vodka is the primary alcohol in an apple cider crush. Again, a simple

step can involve several options. As always, a good quality vodka is understood.

But infusing flavor whenever possible is the goal of an experienced bartender. A caramel flavored vodka is a perfect pairing with apples, adds an extra layer of zest, and highlights the time of year.

Many recipes call for the addition of soda water. Soda water will give the drink a fizzy quality but will diminish the flavor profile you have created. Instead, opt for ginger ale, this way you get the best of both worlds.

Garnishing is extremely important to the art of plating, and drinks are no exception. A cinnamon stick, slice of apple, and rimming the glass in cinnamon sugar are popular choices.

I remember when I was a child and made my first apple strudel. The recipe called for cinnamon sugar. Well, I had never heard of it and assumed it was a misprint and they meant straight cinnamon.

I had to ask mom for money to buy all of this cinnamon, and she questioned me about it. Of course, I knew what I was doing and told her not to worry I had everything under control.

Well, when black juices starting seeping through the dough, I yelled for mom because I knew something was not right. She again questioned me about the cinnamon, and I told her the recipe called for cinnamon sugar. Needless to say, I never made that mistake again.

When a recipe calls for cinnamon sugar, the ratio of cinnamon to sugar is one part cinnamon to four parts sugar.

The type of glass used for a drink is crucial. Canning jars are the perfect vessel for this drink. If you can find them with a handle, even better.

In closing, if you are a fan of orange crushes, consider whipping up a batch of apple cider crushes to coincide with the theme of fall. Enjoy!

Apple Cider Crush

4 ounces apple cider

2 ounces salted caramel vodka

2 ounces ginger ale cinnamon sugar and a slice of apple for a garnish

1. Fill an ice tray with a mixture of water and apple cider, fifty percent for each ingredient.

2. Rim the glass with a damp paper towel, and dip it in the cinnamon sugar.

3. Fill the cup with crushed apple cider ice.

4. Add the apple cider and vodka, stirring to mix.

5. Add the ginger ale, taste, and adjust if necessary.

6. Garnish and serve immediately. Secret Ingredient – Fall It looked like the world was covered in a cobbler crust of brown sugar and cinnamon.

- Sarah Addison Allen

Also, apples turn brown when exposed to air. Since a slice of apple is edible, applying lemon juice is not advisable. A lemony slice of apple and a sweet drink aren’t the best match. Either slice the apple to order, or soak the apple slices in a mixture of water and honey.

Dinner and meat giveway

St. Paul’s By-the-Sea Episcopal Church invites everyone to a free community dinner and “Big Meat Giveaway” on Wednesday, Nov. 19, from 5 to 7 p.m. at 302 N. Baltimore Avenue in Ocean City.

During the event, guests are welcome to a free salmon or chicken dinner in the parish hall and/or take part in the Big Meat Giveaway, which includes various cuts of beef, chicken, and pork, along with baked goods, bread, and more — all free of charge.

Each person participating in the meat giveaway will receive three meat items per person, while supplies last.

“This event is all about sharing good food and good will,” said organizers at St. Paul’s By-the-Sea. “Whether you’d like to sit down for a meal, take home groceries for your family, or both, we invite you to join us.”

For more information, contact Outreach Ministries at St. Paul’s By-the-Sea Episcopal Church at 410-289-3453 or email outreach@stpaulsbythesea.org.

Chamber Lights contest

The Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce invites businesses, community organizations, and residents to spread holiday cheer and shine bright in our annual “Chamber Lights” decorating contest!

Participation is free — sign up at the OC Chamber website www.oceancity.org

— and get creative with your lights and decorations. Participants who are members of the OC Chamber will also be eligible for recognition, as awards are given in multiple categories.

How to participate: Visit www.oceancity.org to register.

Judges will be touring the town in their search for the brightest and best.

Awards Ceremony: Winners will be announced and recognized on Jan. 8, 2026, at the Ocean Downs Casino.

Named to honor society

Steven Pacobit of Ocean City was recently elected to membership into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society, at University of Maryland Global Campus.

Pacobit is among approximately 20,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year.

Membership is by invitation only and requires nomination and approval by a chapter. Only the top 10 percent of seniors and 7.5 percent of juniors are eligible for membership.

Music director recognized

The Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra has announced Music Director Michael Repper has been nominated for two GRAMMY Awards for his work with the National Philharmonic.

The album, a world-premiere recording celebrating the 150th anniversary of composer Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, received nominations for Best Orchestral Performance and Best Classical Instrumental Solo. Conducted by Michael Repper and featuring violinist Curtis Stewart with the musicians of the National Philharmonic, the recording highlights the depth, energy, and inclusivity that have come to define Repper’s artistry both on stage and in the studio.

“These nominations are a testament not only to Michael’s extraordinary musicianship but also to his commitment to bringing vital, underrepresented voices in classical music to the forefront,” said Jeffrey Parker, Chair of the Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra Board of Directors. “We are incredibly proud to have him leading our orchestra.”

New ‘Who-Hill’ celebration

Both the Snow Hill Downtown Main Street organization and the Town of Snow Hill have announced Snow Hill’s first ever Who-Hill Celebration, Saturday, Dec. 13. Starting with a breakfast with the Grinch at the Snow Hill Volunteer Fire Company, the day will bring smiles for children. Church bazaars, Grinch themed food at Snow Hill’s amazing eateries, games, photos with the Grinch, a Max lookalike doggie contest, and so much more. Embrace your inner Who or Grinch.  For more information: https://www.facebook.com/share/17XDEgpDcY/.

Calendar

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

Fri., Nov. 14

OC MAHJONG CLUB

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

BABY TIME

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. A great opportunity for babies (0-2 years) and their caregivers to socialize, play, read and explore in the bright play space. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BOOK OF THE MONTH: ‘THE NIGHT WATCHMAN’ BY LOUISE ERDRICH

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Copies of the book are available at the Ocean Pines Library circulation desk. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

DISCOVERY DEN AFTERSCHOOL PROGRAM

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 3:304:30 p.m. Come enjoy a new topic every week. Week 2: Theater. Best of elementary and middle school students, but all are welcome. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

MARYLAND CRAB CAKE DINNER

Stevenson United Methodist Church, 123 N. Main St., Berlin, 4-6 p.m. One crab cake sandwich platter, $14; two crab cake sandwich platter, $24; and crab cake sandwiches, $10. Platters include green beans, baked potato and Cole slaw. Bake sale table available.

CHICKEN SALAD CARRYOUT

Bishopville Volunteer Fire Dept, 11837 Saint Martins Neck Road, 6-8 p.m. Cost is $10 per pint. Preorder or for more information: 443-880-4944.

PAINT & SIP NIGHT

Bishopville Volunteer Fire Dept, 11837 Saint Martins Neck Road, 6-9:30 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m. Paint & Sip held from 7-9:30 p.m. Cost is $45 and includes instructions, all supplies and a glass of wine. Extra wine, food and sodas available. Reservations: 410-7132110.

KIGHTS OF COLUMBUS BINGO Fridays - Knights of Columbus, 9901

Coastal Highway, behind St. Luke’s Church. Doors open at 5 p.m., bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. Light snacks available before bingo and at intermission. 410524-7994

Sat., Nov. 15

COLOR RUN FOR THE ARTS

Veterans Memorial Park, Race Track Road, Ocean Pines, 8 a.m.-noon. Checkin from 8-9 a.m. Kids Run for ages 9 and younger begins at 9 a.m. The 5K run begins at 9:30 a.m. The 2-mile walk around the pond begins at 10 a.m. Preregistration required: OCart.org/ColorRun.

CRAFTY SATURDAY: THANKSGIVING

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Create some Thanksgiving treats and crafts. For ages 0-11 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

A MUSIC, DANCE AND COMEDY SHOW: READING ROCKS!

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Join Turtle Dance Music for a hybrid show featuring classic and original children’s songs and tales. Dance, sing, laugh and use your imagination. For families. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

KIDS STEAM WORKSHOP: POWER PROTECTORS

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Join 4-H educator Theresa Maggio on a journey to learn about renewable energy through an exciting, superherothemed workshop. Best for ages 6-11 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

GLOBAL GOODIES

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Are all snacks created equal? Taste test snacks from around the world and find out. All food provided. For families. 410208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

ORIGINALS ONLY: NO COVERS, JUST CREATORS

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., Ocean City, 6-8 p.m. Local creators — musicians, poets, comedians, and performers — showcase their talents. Free and open to all. Snacks included. 410254-9433,

info@artleagueofoceancity.org

OCEAN PINES FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

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

Sun., Nov. 16

BERLIN FARMERS MARKET

Sundays - Pitts Street, Commerce Street and Main Street, Berlin, May through October, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine. Producers only market featuring more than 50 farmers, food cultivators, bakers, distillers, seafood, meat and more. Also featuring a petting farm (9-11 a.m.), free kids art station and live music. TheBerlinFarmersMarket.com

SEWING FOR A CAUSE

Sundays - Buckingham Presbyterian Church, 20 S. Main St., Berlin, 10:30 a.m. to noon. Learn how to sew while making a difference. 410-641-0234

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

Mon., Nov. 17

STORY TIME: MS. AVERY’S FAVORITES

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, www.worcesterlibrary.org

DIY KOMBUCHA

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Join Michaela Eggers and learn all about kombucha, its benefits and how to make it yourself. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

OREO TASTE TEST CHALLENGE

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4:30 p.m. An afternoon of wacky Oreo flavors. Test each one and then rank them from best to worst. For families. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

T.O.P.S. OF BERLIN - GROUP #169

Mondays - Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 5-6:30 p.m. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a weekly support and educational group promoting weight loss and living a healthy lifestyle. Rose

Campion, 410-641-0157

BRIDGE

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

DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS

Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6:00-8:00 p.m. All ladies who love to sing invited. Elissa, 410-641-8050; on social media; or delmarvachorus.org.

OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS

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

Tues., Nov. 18

GENEALOGY WORKSHOP

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. The workshop starts with a 20-minute lesson on genealogy research, followed by a Q&A. Bring a laptop, tablet or papers containing family information. Registration required: 410-208-4014.

MUSIC AND MOVEMENT

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 10:30 a.m. Sing silly songs, play rhythmic instruments and move to the beat. For ages 0-5 years. 410-957-0878. www.worcesterlibrary.org

OC KNITTING GROUP

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Do you love to knit or crochet? Bring whatever project you happen to be working on. Group meets every Tuesday. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BABY TIME

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Songs, rhymes and stories. Stay after to socialize with other families. For ages 0-2 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

STORY TIME

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

CRAFTS FOR A CAUSE: ADOPT ME BANDANAS

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 4 p.m. Craft a special “Adopt Me!” bandana for a furry friend at the Worcester County

Continued on Page 48

CALENDAR

Humane Society. All ages. Service hours available upon request. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

OREO TASTE TEST CHALLENGE

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 4:30 p.m. An afternoon of wacky Oreo flavors. Test each one and then rank them all from best to worst. For families. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

CROSS FARMS POP-UP FARMERS MARKET

Tuesdays - Flower Street Field across from Henry Park, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Accepting Maryland Department of Agriculture FMNP (WIC & Seniors) Checks and Maryland WIC Fruit & Vegetable Checks. Also offering a "Produce Bucks" program, which doubles purchases for eligible residents. https://www.facebook.com/theberlinfarmersmarket.

BEACH HEROES-OC

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

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY

Tuesdays - Worcester County Health Department, 9730 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3:30-4:30 p.m. TOPS is a weekly support and education group promoting weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. 410289-4725

OC KNITTING CLUB

Tuesdays - Worcester County LibraryOcean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m.

ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE

Tuesdays - Experienced dancers and others interested in watching or learning more are welcome, 7-9:30 p.m. No partner required. Info: TangobytheBeach.com.

ZUMBA TONING TUESDAYS

Tuesdays - Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 5:30 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com

WEIGHT MANAGEMENT AND WELLNESS GROUP

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

Wed., Nov. 19

EASTERN SHORE SEWISTS Worcester County Library - Berlin

Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10 a.m. Promoting the needle arts through sewing education, activities and textile crafts. For artisans of all skill levels. 410-6410650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BACKGAMMON CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Drop in for a game of Backgammon, whether you’re an expert for want to refresh your skills. Beginners welcome. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

SENSORY STAY AND PLAY

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Get ready to squish, build, splash, shake and scoop through several fun stations. For ages 0-5 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

WHAT WE COLLECT. WHAT WE TELL: SENIOR COFFEE & CONVERSATION

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 11 a.m. Share stories and reminisce about the past through prompts and activities. 410957-0878. www.worcesterlibrary.org

PUZZLE SWAP

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 1-7 p.m. Bring your gently used puzzles and leave with new-to-you puzzles. Don’t have a puzzle to exchange but still want one? That’s OK too. All puzzles must be complete in their original boxes. 410-641-0650

EMBROIDERY WORKSHOP

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Receive an embroidery kit that celebrates the 250th Anniversary of the Signing of the Declaration of Independence. Learn basic embroidery stitches. Registration required: 410-641-0650.

SERVICE SQUAD - MAKE IT MATTER

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4 p.m. Service hour earning program that lets participants be creative while benefiting worthy causes. Open to students of Worcester County Schools. 410-6410650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BINGO

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. Cost is $2 per Bingo card, cash only. Prizes include donations and gift cards and hand crafted items.

OCEAN CITY - BERLIN ROTARY CLUB

MEETING

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 6 p.m. The group meets on the first and third Wednesday of each month. ocberlinrotary@gmail.com

FAMILY FUN NIGHTS

Wednesdays (through Aug. 20) - Ocean Pines Yacht Club Pool, 1 Mumford's

Landing Road, 6-8 p.m. DJ, games and prizes. Food available for purchase. Admission is $3 for OP swim members, $5 for OP residents, $7 for non-residents and free for non-swimmers. Cash only. 410-641-7052, oceanpines.org

KIWANIS CLUB MEETING

Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. Last Wednesday of the month meetings are offsite and information can be found on the website and Facebook. www.kiwanisofopoc.org.

CASH BINGO

Wednesdays - Ocean City Elks Lodge 2645, 13708 Sinepuxent Ave. Door open at 5 p.m., bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. Food available before bingo and at intermission. Open to the public. 443-605-5028

Thurs., Nov. 20

WINTERFEST OF LIGHTS

Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 5:30-9:30 p.m. Enjoy a walk through the Winter Wonderland. Mobility devices and wheel chairs available to rent. Held Nov. 20 to Dec. 31. Check website for times, dates and events: www.ococean.com/winterfest/. 410289-2800

NARFE CHAPTER MEETING

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 10 a.m. NARFE - National Active & Retired Federal Employees, spouses and retirees welcome. Karleen Hagan, 703-729-2103

OC CHESS CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Enjoy a relaxing game of chess every Thursday at the library. 410-5241818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

STORY TIME: A ROYAL FEAST

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Celebrate Princess Day and Thanksgiving with the story time friends. Bring a treat to share and enjoy a Thanksgiving story. For ages 2-5 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

PLAY TIME

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Join in for a variety of activities and toys. Play and socialize with other families. For ages 2-5 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

GLEN CAMPBELL: RHINESTONE COWBOY

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Frank DeLucco and Harry Burkett examine Glen Campbell’s six-decade career. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

FIRESIDE CHAT

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 3 p.m. A pop-

ular and entertaining book discussion featuring books participants have read and want to share. Come find your next great read. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

SILENT BOOK CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 3 p.m. The first 50 minutes will be spent silently reading, the last 10 minutes can be used to mingle and discuss your read. Bring your current read or borrow one. 410524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

HAPPY HOUR COLORING CLUB

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 4-6 p.m. Enjoy light refreshments while exploring new coloring trends in a relaxing atmosphere. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

LEGO MASTERS CHALLENGE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30 p.m. Join in for a Lego challenge event and enjoy an afternoon snack. All materials provided. For ages 6-11 years. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

WORCESTER COUNTY NAACP MEETING

Berlin 50plus Center, 10129 Old Ocean City Blvd., 6 p.m. WCPS Superintendent Dr. Annette Wallace will discuss “State of Our Schools & Current Goals.” All are welcome. 443-944-6701

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

LIGHT UP THE PINES

Free annual outdoor decorating event. Register by Dec. 12 to be entered into the drawing to win one of three $50 bill credits from Choptank Electric Cooperative. The first 25 home to sign up will receive Choptank Electric goodies. Residents may sign up throughout the holiday season to have their homes added to the online map (oceanpines.org). Register: info@oceanpines.org, 410-641-7717, Ext. 3014.

Crossword answers from page 44

JOLLY ROGER

Small Engine Mechanic. Ride Maintenance. Year Round. Wage starts at $15/hour & up based on experience. Benefits available. 410-289-4902

DENTAL HYGIENIST Ocean City, MD 410-213-1032

14, 2025 OC Today-Dispatch 49

Ocean Pines Yearly Rental Waterfront Condo. Elevator building. 2BR, 2BA, unfurnished.

$2100/mo. + electric. Available December 1. Phone/text 203-400-2809.

OC WINTER RENTAL

Downtown 2BD/2BA, Apt., furnished. Central HVAC, W/D, WiFi, cable included. Occ. lmtd. to 2. No smoking/pets.

$800/mo. + utilities. 410-202-6353

YR APARTMENT 8th ST. 1 BR, Sleeps 6 Fully remodeled.

3rd Floor, No elevator

$1,850 per mo. Includes Cable, Elec. & Water 410-430-7675

HANDYMAN

at troon.com/careers - company location Sea Colony Assoc East or email bethann.steele@seacolony.com or call 302-541-8831 for an interview

YEARLY RENTAL

3BR, 2.5BA Townhouse. Garage, community pool, gym. Decatur Farm, Berlin, MD. $2500/month + utils. Call/text 443-856-7878.

Seeking Year-Round Rentals!

Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555.

YEARLY RENTAL

2BR, 1BA Unfurnished

319 Robin Drive

Available immediately Dog friendly, ground floor. Ideal 2 mature adults w/strong work history.

$2,000/mo + electric Call/text 703-819-7400

2 Office/Retail Spaces available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft. and 1728 sq. ft. Call 443-497-4200

Commercial Space for Lease. ONLY 1 UNIT LEFT! 2-3 Units available, can be divided or joined. Approx. 1000 sq. ft. Busy major road in Town of Berlin. Call 443-880-8885 for more information.

COMMERCIAL SPACE

Rt. 611, Stephen Decatur Business Center.

Large unit with 5 individual office spaces within. $2,400 per mo. 410-430-7675

Industrial Space Yard and Storage Shed. Approx. 10x25+/Route 90/Bishopville. Call 443-497-4200.

ROOMMATES

ROOMMATE

North Ocean Pines Room for Rent. Furnished, Private Bath.

$850/mo. + 1/2 Utilities. Text 410-726-2451.

REAL ESTATE

FOR SALE BISHOPVILLE

2BR, 2BA Mobile Home. In great shape. Min.’s to beach.

$34,000 Cash + $700 per mo. ground rent. Park is open YR! Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555.

LARRY’S HANDYMAN SERVICE No job too small, entrance doors, interior doors, storm doors, shower doors, drywall repairs and paint, laminate floors, interior paint. Over 40 years of carpentry experience. Please call Larry, 410-251-9066.

DONATIONS

Do you have an old bicycle not being used? It could mean a world of difference to a hard-working international student. We are looking to get as many bikes as possible. Your donation will be tax-deductible. Contact Gary at 443-975-3065.

1099 WINTERSON ROAD, SUITE 301

LINTHICUM HEIGHTS, MARYLAND 21090

www.cgd-law.com/sales

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY

808

& 810

2ND STREET POCOMOKE, MD 21851

By authority contained in a Deed of Trust dated August 25, 2020 and recorded in Liber 7968, Folio 440, among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, with an original principal balance of $99,000.00, and an interest rate of 20.990%, default having occurred thereunder, the Substitute Trustees will sell at public auction at the Courthouse door for the Circuit Court for Worcester County, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863, on

December 1, 2025 AT 11:00AM

ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE property more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The property is improved by a dwelling.

Terms of Sale: The property will be sold “as is” subject to any conditions, restrictions, easements and agreements of record affecting same with no warranty of any kind. A deposit of $10,000.00 by certified funds only (no cash accepted) required at time of auction. Balance of the purchase price to be paid within 10 days of ratification of sale by the Court, with interest at the note rate from date of sale to settlement. If settlement is delayed for ANY reason, there shall be no abatement of interest or taxes. All private utility, water and sewer facilities charges, front foot benefit payments, ground rent, or condo/HOA assessments, not otherwise divested by ratification of the sale are payable by purchaser without adjustment. Real estate taxes and all other public charges, or assessments, to be adjusted as of date of sale. Transfer and recordation taxes, and all other costs incident to settlement, shall be borne by purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property.

TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE. If purchaser fails to go to settlement within ten days of ratification, or otherwise fails to comply with the terms of sale, the Trustee may declare the entire deposit forfeited and resell the property at the risk and expense of defaulting purchaser, who agrees to pay reasonable attorneys' fees and costs if a motion to resell the property has been filed, purchaser waives personal service of any paper filed in connection with such motion, and agrees to accept service of any such paper by regular mail to the address provided at time of sale. If the Trustee cannot convey insurable title, or the loan servicer determines that the sale should not have occurred, the sale shall be null and void, and purchaser's sole rem-

edy shall be the return of deposit without interest.

Richard E. Solomon, et al.,

Sub. Trustees

Tidewater Auctions, LLC

(410) 825-2900

www.tidewaterauctions.com

CGD File #: 460586

OCD-11/13/3t

Piel Law Firm, LLC

502 Washington Avenue, Suite 730

Towson, Maryland 21204

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES’ SALE RESIDENTIAL REAL PROPERTY

400 2ND STREET

A/R/T/A 400 SECOND STREET

POCOMOKE CITY, MARYLAND 21851

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust and Assignment of Leases and Rents executed by RLuxury Rentals Limited Liability Company, also known as R-Luxury Rentals, LLC, and dated January 18, 2024, and recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, at Liber 8701, folio 93 (the “Deed of Trust”), the holder of the indebtedness secured by the Deed of Trust (the “Noteholder”) having subsequently appointed Hunter C. Piel and Scott B. Wheat (collectively, the “Substitute Trustees”) as Substitute Trustees by instrument duly executed, acknowledged and recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland for the purposes therein contained, default having occurred under the terms of the Deed of Trust, the Substitute Trustees will offer for sale at public auction to the highest qualified bidder at the steps of the Circuit Court for Worcester County located at One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863, on:

Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at 3:55 p.m.

ALL OF THAT real property being situate in Worcester County, Maryland, and the improvements thereon (collectively, the “Property”), in fee simple, being more particularly described in the Deed of Trust, and generally known as 400 Second Street, Pocomoke City, Maryland 21851, Tax ID No.: 01-017969.

TERMS OF SALE: A deposit in the amount of Seven Thousand Dollars ($7,000.00), payable in cash, certified check, or other form acceptable to the Substitute Trustees, in their 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 Substitute Trustees 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 Substitute Trustees reserve the right to reject any and all bids, and to extend the time for settlement, if applicable. In the event taxes or other municipal charges owing on or with respect to the Property have been prepaid they shall be adjusted at settlement between the Substitute Trustees and the purchaser(s) to 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 improvements. In addition, the Property will also be sold subject to all existing housing, building and zoning code violations, and any receivership actions relating thereto, 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 Substitute Trustees 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 Substitute Trustees 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 Substitute Trustees are 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 Substitute Trustees 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 Substitute Trustees do not make any representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy of this information.

Hunter

C. Piel, Scott B. Wheat Substitute Trustees

OCD-11/13/3t _________________________________

Rosenberg & Associates, LLC 4340 East West Highway, Suite 600 Bethesda, MD 20814 (301) 907-8000 www.rosenberg-assoc.com

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES’ SALE OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY

5719 GEORGE ISLAND LANDING ROAD STOCKTON, MD 21864

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from Khalid A. Hindi dated November 4, 2020 and recorded in Liber 7864, folio 461 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on

NOVEMBER 18, 2025 AT 3:55 PM

ALL THAT FEE żIMPLE LOT OF GROUND, together with the buildings and improvements thereon situated in Worcester

County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. Tax ID #08-008256.

The property, which is improved by a dwelling, will be sold in an "as is" condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranty of any kind.

Terms of Sale: A deposit of $17,000 in the form of certified check, cashier's check or money order will be required of the purchaser at time and place of sale. Balance of the purchase price to be paid in cash within ten days of final ratification of sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County. Interest to be paid on the unpaid purchase money at the rate pursuant to the Deed of Trust Note from the date of sale to the date funds are received in the office of the Trustees. There will be no abatement of interest in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement or if settlement is delayed for any reason. The noteholder shall not be obligated to pay interest if it is the purchaser. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE FOR THE PURCHASER. There will be no reduction of interest due to overpayment of deposit. Adjustment of all real property taxes (excluding recapture of previously reduced or exempt taxes) and any other public charges or assessments, to the extent such amount survive foreclosure sale, including water/sewer charges, and ground rent to be adjusted to date of sale and paid at execution of the deed, except where the secured party is the purchaser, and thereafter assumed by the purchaser. All due and/or unpaid private utility, water and sewer facilities charges, condo/HOA assessments and Columbia Assoc. assessments, to the extent such amount survive foreclosure sale, are payable by the purchaser without adjustment. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes, recaptured taxes (including but not limited to agricultural taxes), and settlement expenses shall be borne by the purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. Purchaser assumes the risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale forward. Additional terms to be announced at the time of sale. If the Trustees are unable to convey good and marketable title, the purchaser's sole remedy in law and equity shall be limited to a refund of the deposit without interest. If the purchaser fails to go to settlement, subject to order of the court, the entire deposit (including any amount received over the advertised deposit amount) shall be forfeited to the Trustees as liquidated damages for all losses occasioned by the purchaser's default and purchaser shall have no further liability. In the event of a resale, the defaulting purchaser shall not be entitled to receive the surplus, if any, even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulting purchaser and the defaulting purchaser shall be liable to the Trustees and secured party for reasonable attorney’s fees and expenses incurred in connection with all litigation involving the Property or the proceeds of the

resale. Defaulting purchaser waives personal service of any document filed in connection with such a motion on him/herself and/or any principal or corporate designee, and expressly agrees to accept service of any such document by regular mail directed to the address provided by said purchaser at the time of the foreclosure auction. Trustees' file number 25-004043-MD-F-2.

Diane S. Rosenberg, Mark D. Meyer, et al., Trustees

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Rosenberg & Associates, LLC 4340 East West Highway, Suite 600 Bethesda, MD 20814 (301) 907-8000 www.rosenberg-assoc.com

SUBSTITUTE

TRUSTEES’ SALE OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY

35 TAIL OF THE FOX DRIVE BERLIN A/R/T/A OCEAN PINES, MD 21811

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from William J. McGraw dated May 20, 2022 and recorded in Liber 8393, folio 494 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on

NOVEMBER 18, 2025 AT 3:57 PM

ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND, together with the buildings and improvements thereon situated in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. Tax ID #03-039560.

The property, which is improved by a dwelling, will be sold in an "as is" condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranty of any kind.

Terms of Sale: A deposit of $19,000 in the form of certified check, cashier's check or money order will be required of the purchaser at time and place of sale. Balance of the purchase price to be paid in cash within ten days of final ratification of sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County. Interest to be paid on the unpaid purchase money at the rate pursuant to the Deed of Trust Note from the date of sale to the date funds are received in the office of the Trustees. There will be no abatement of interest in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement or if settlement is delayed for any reason. The noteholder shall not be obligated to pay interest if it is the purchaser. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE FOR THE PURCHASER. There will be no reduction

of interest due to overpayment of deposit. Adjustment of all real property taxes (excluding recapture of previously reduced or exempt taxes) and any other public charges or assessments, to the extent such amount survive foreclosure sale, including water/sewer charges, and ground rent to be adjusted to date of sale and paid at execution of the deed, except where the secured party is the purchaser, and thereafter assumed by the purchaser. All due and/or unpaid private utility, water and sewer facilities charges, condo/HOA assessments and Columbia Assoc. assessments, to the extent such amount survive foreclosure sale, are payable by the purchaser without adjustment. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes, recaptured taxes (including but not limited to agricultural taxes), and settlement expenses shall be borne by the purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. Purchaser assumes the risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale forward. Additional terms to be announced at the time of sale.

If the Trustees are unable to convey good and marketable title, the purchaser's sole remedy in law and equity shall be limited to a refund of the deposit without interest. If the purchaser fails to go to settlement, subject to order of the court, the entire deposit (including any amount received over the advertised deposit amount) shall be forfeited to the Trustees as liquidated damages for all losses occasioned by the purchaser's default and purchaser shall have no further liability. In the event of a resale, the defaulting purchaser shall not be entitled to receive the surplus, if any, even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulting purchaser and the defaulting purchaser shall be liable to the Trustees and secured party for reasonable attorney’s fees and expenses incurred in connection with all litigation involving the Property or the proceeds of the resale. Defaulting purchaser waives personal service of any document filed in connection with such a motion on him/herself and/or any principal or corporate designee, and expressly agrees to accept service of any such document by regular mail directed to the address provided by said purchaser at the time of the foreclosure auction. Trustees' file number 25-003808-MD-F-2. Diane S. Rosenberg, Mark D. Meyer, et al., Trustees

OCD-10/30/3t

J. HARRISON PHILLIPS III ESQ

8705 E BISCAYNE DRIVE OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20887 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED

IN THE ESTATE OF JOHN WILLIAM FORMWALT

Notice is given that Belinda Hardesty Formwalt, 153 Nautical Ln., Ocean City, MD 21842-4665, was on October 23, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of John William Formwalt who died on September 03, 2025, without a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 23rd day of April, 2026.

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 23rd day of April, 2026.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Belinda Hardesty Formwalt 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 30, 2025

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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. 20888 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF HENRIETTA H. MAIZE

Notice is given that Matthew Charles Maize, 4915 Pennewell Road, Snow Hill, MD 21863 was on October 23, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Henrietta H. Maize who died on October 15, 2025, with a will.

Further information can be ob-

tained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 23rd day of April, 2026.

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 23rd day of April, 2026.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Matthew Charles Maize 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 30, 2025

OCD-10/30/3t

MAURICE L. OFFIT ESQ. 1954 GREENSPRING DR., STE. 605

LUTHERVILLE TIMONIUM, MD 21093-4130

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20890 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF EDWARD M. ZIMMER AKA: EDWARD MICHAEL ZIMMER

Notice is given that Jane M. Zimmer, 6981 Five Mile Branch Rd., Newark, MD 21841-2309, was on October 24, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Edward M. Zimmer who died on September 14, 2025, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 24th day of April,

2026.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 24th day of April, 2026.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Jane M. Zimmer

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 30, 2025

OCD-10/30/3t

BWW Law Group, LLC

6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852

ANDREW J. BRENNER, et al.

6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852

Substitute Trustees/ Plaintiffs vs. JAMES R. KENNEDY

357 Timberline Circle Berlin, MD 21811

Defendant(s) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

Case No. C-23-CV-25-000176

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given this 23rd day of October, 2025, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings and described as 357 Timberline Circle, Berlin, MD 21811, made and reported by the Substitute Trustee, will be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 24th day of November, 2025, provided a copy of this NOTICE be inserted in some weekly newspaper printed in said County, once in each of three successive weeks before the 17th day of November, 2025. The report states the purchase price at the Foreclosure sale to be $86,000.00.

Susan R. Braniecki Clerk, Circuit Court for

Worcester County, Maryland

True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-10/30/3t

COATES, COATES, & COATES, P.A.

RAYMOND D. COATES JR., ESQ. 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 20885

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Circuit Court of Boone County, Kentucky appointed William David Bramble, 245 Main St., Florence, KY 41042-2027 as the Executor of the Estate of Leona Lou Seabolt Bramble who died on April 30, 2025 domiciled in Kentucky, USA.

The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is Raymond D. Coates Jr., 6200 Coastal Hwy., Ste. 300, Ocean City, MD 21842-6698.

At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: Worcester.

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.

William David Bramble

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 30, 2025

OCD-10/30/3t

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. 20865 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ROBERT LEE WEBB JR.

Notice is given that Chandler Webb Sterling, 2646 Bunting Rd., Pocomoke City, MD 21851-2944; and Kristi Leigh Webb, 1912 Groton Rd., Pocomoke City, MD 21851-2800 were

on October 23, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Robert Lee Webb Jr. who died on September 14, 2025, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 23rd day of April, 2026.

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 23rd day of April, 2026.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Chandler Webb Sterling Kristi Leigh Webb Personal Representatives True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest

Date of publication: October 30, 2025

OCD-10/30/3t

MICHAEL B. MATHERS, ESQ. WEBB, WILBUR, MATHERS ILLUMINATI & LUKAS, LLP P.O. BOX 910

SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20846 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MARK CHRISTOPHER RIERSON Notice is given that Cassandra Zoe Rierson, 12139 Landings Blvd., Berlin, MD 21811-2753 was on October 24, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mark Christopher Rierson who died on August 22, 2025, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection

to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 24th day of April, 2026.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 24th day of April, 2026.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Cassandra Zoe Rierson 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 30, 2025

OCD-10/30/3t

TRACEY J. COATES ESQ.

COATES FAMILY LAW

4800 HAMPDEN LN., STE. 200 BETHESDA, MD 20814-2934

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20880 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF NORRIS EARL MOLER

Notice is given that Robbin E. Moler, 2054 Bishop Dr., Charleston, SC 29414-6005 was on October 27, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Norris Earl Moler who died on June 24, 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 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 27th day of April, 2026.

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 27th day of April, 2026.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present

the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Robbin E. Moler

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 30, 2025

OCD-10/30/3t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20886 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ELIZABETH MAE CIANCIULLI

Notice is given that Dina Cianciulli, 9100 Reedy Cove Dr., Apt. 203, Berlin, MD 21811-9503; and David Saylor, 9100 Reedy Cove Dr., Apt. 203, Berlin, MD 21811-9503 were on October 24, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Elizabeth Mae Cianciulli who died on June 04, 2025, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 24th day of April, 2026.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 24th day of April, 2026.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two

months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Dina Cianciulli

David Saylor

Personal Representatives

True Test Copy

Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: October 30, 2025

OCD-10/30/3t

LEWIS MCDANIELS, LLC

41 N Market St. Frederick, Maryland 21701

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

Case No. C-23-CV-25-000160 (TAX SALE)

Insight Real Estate, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. Louis Costen; Ada L. Costen; The testate and intestate successors of Louis Costen, believed to be deceased, and all persons claiming by, through, or under the decedent; The testate and intestate successors of Ada L. Costen, believed to be deceased, and all persons claiming by, through, or under the decedent; Worcester County, Maryland; any and all unknown owners of the property and premises situate in Worcester County, Maryland, described as APP 55'X165' 113 ROSS STREET SNOW HILL and being identified on the Tax Roll as Parcel ID: 02-017385, and which may be known as 113 Ross St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, the unknown owner's heirs, devisees, and personal representatives and their or any of their heirs, devisees, executors, administrators, grantees, assigns, or successors in right, title and interest; and, any and all persons that have or claim to have any interest in the property and premises situate in Worcester County, Maryland, described as APP 55'X165' 113 ROSS STREET SNOW HILL and being identified on the Tax Roll as Parcel ID: 02-017385, and which may be known as 113 Ross St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, Defendants.

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property situate in Worcester County, Maryland, sold by the Collector of Taxes for Worcester County, Maryland, and the State of Maryland: described as APP 55'Xl65' 113 ROSS STREET SNOW HILL and being identified on the Tax Roll as Parcel ID: 02-017385, and which may be known as 113 Ross St., Snow

Hill, MD 21863. The Complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid.

It is thereupon this 27th of October 2025 by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, ORDERED, that notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this Order in some newspaper having general circulation in Worcester County, Maryland, once a week for three (3) successive weeks, the last insertion on or before the 28th day of November, 2025, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 27th day of December, 2025, and redeem the property and/or answer the Complaint or thereafter a final judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in and as to the property, and vesting in the plaintiff a title free and clear of all encumbrances.

Brian D. Shockley JUDGE Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD

OCD-10/30/3t

COATES, COATES, & COATES, P.A.

RAYMOND D. COATES JR., ESQ. 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 20898

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Register Of Wills court of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania appointed Kristopher G. McCue, 2796 Den Mil Dr., Lancaster, PA 17601-1714 as the Executor of the Estate of Georgianne McCue who died on July 11, 2025 domiciled in Pennsylvania, America.

The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is Raymond D. Coates Jr., 6200 Coastal Hwy., Ste. 300, Ocean City, MD 21842-6698.

At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: Worcester.

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.

Kristopher G. McCue 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: November 06, 2025

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JOSEPH E. MOORE ESQ WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON

3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES

ESTATE NO. 20896

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the SUPERIOR court of PIMA COUNTY, ARIZONA appointed GRACE MONAHAN GREGORY whose address is 33420 N 45TH ST CAVE CREEK, AZ 85331-5069 as the EXECUTOR of the Estate of MARY LOU MONAHAN who died on FEBRUARY 19, 2024 domiciled in ARIZONA, USA. The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is JOSEPH E MOORE whose address is 3509 COASTAL HWY OCEAN CITY, MD 218423334. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: WORCESTER

All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or

(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-11/6/3t

NOTICE

OF PASSAGE OF EMERGENCY BILL 25-04

WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

Take Notice that Emergency Bill 25-04 (Zoning – Solar Energy Systems and Public Health - Nuisances) was passed by Commissioners Abbott, Bertino, Elder, Fiori, Mitrecic, and Purnell on October 7, 2025. A fair summary of the bill is as follows:

Amends § ZS 1-344 of the Zoning and Subdivision Control Article to revise and repeal several definitions; modify lot requirements and review processes for certain solar energy systems; establish decommissioning and restoration plan and bond re-

PUBLIC NOTICE

The motor vehicles described below have been abandoned. The owners and lien holders are hereby informed of their right to reclaim the vehicles upon payment of all charges and costs resulting from the towing, preservation, and storage of the vehicles.

The failure of the owners or lien holders to reclaim the vehicles within three weeks of notification shall be deemed a waiver by the owners or lien holders of all rights, title and interest and thereby consent to the sale of the vehicles at public auction or to have it otherwise disposed of in a manner provided by law.

These three weeks of notification begins on DATE: 11/14/2025

All vehicles will be sold at auction on-line at www.govdeals.com. For details call 410-723-6643.

AUTH: Raymond J Austin Chief

of Police

quirements. Modify § ZS 1 305(k)(1)D to remove small solar energy systems. Modify § ZS 1-105(c)(6) to reflect revised definitions. Amend various district regulations to list major and utility solar energy systems as permitted uses. Amends § PH 1-101(a) of the Public Health Article to add a nuisance provision for abandoned major or utility solar energy systems that are not decommissioned.

This emergency bill becomes effective on the date of passage.

This is only a fair summary of the bill. A full copy of the bill is posted on the Legislative Bulletin Board in the main hall of the Worcester County Government Center outside Room 1103., is available for public inspection in Room 1103 of the Worcester County Government Center and is available on the County Website at www.co.worcester.md.us.

THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

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NOTICE

OF PASSAGE OF BILL 25-05

WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

Take Notice that Bill 25-05 (Taxation – Homestead Property Tax Credit) was passed by Commissioners Abbott, Bertino, Bunting, Elder, Fiori, Mitrecic, and Purnell on October 21, 2025.

A fair summary of the bill is as follows:

§ TR 1-210 Homestead Property Tax Credit. (Amends the subsection to reduce the homestead property tax credit from three percent to zero percent effective July 1, 2026.)

This is only a fair summary of the bill. A full copy of the bill is posted on the Legislative Bulletin Board in the main hall of the Worcester County Government Center outside Room 1103, is available for public inspection in Room 1103 of the Worcester County Government Center once County Government Offices are opened to the public. In the interim, a full copy of the bill is available on the County Website at www.co.worcester.md.us.

THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS

TOWN OF OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110 of the Code of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Zoning Ordinance for Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted by the Board of Zoning Appeals for Ocean City, Maryland in the Council Chambers of City Hall located on Baltimore Avenue and Third Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on:

Thursday, November 20, 2025 AT 6:00 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Sections 110-93(2), Powers of the Code,

an application has been filed under Sections 110-94(5) to request a special outdoor display of merchandise exception for retail items to be displayed on the exterior of the business commonly known as Beach Variety. The property is described as Parcel 1 (f/k/a Lots 1 through 12, Block 84) of the Sinepuxent Beach Company Plat. It is further described as being located on the east side of Philadelphia Avenue within the 28th Street Plaza and is locally known as Beach Variety located at 2802 Philadelphia Avenue, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: BEACH VARIETY (BZA 2731 #25-09400014) AT 6:10 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Sections 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an application has been filed under Sections 110-94(3)(a) to request (1) a special yard exception for a proposed porch to be constructed to a legally nonconforming side yard setback of 4.7 feet; and (2) a special yard exception for a second story addition to be built to a legally nonconforming side yard setback of 5.7 feet. The property is described as Lot 65 of the Caine Keys II Plat. It is further described as being located on the north side of Winter Harbor Drive and is locally known as 102 Winter Harbor Drive, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: BRADLEY CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, INC. (BZA 2732 #25-09400015)

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-11/6/2t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 20895

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF THEODORE MOORE

AKA: THEODORE JOHN MOORE, THEODORE J. MOORE JR.

Notice is given that Matthew Moore, 202 143rd St., Unit D, Ocean City, MD 21842-7011, was on October 29, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Theodore Moore who died on April 16, 2025, without a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All 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 29th day of April, 2026.

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 29th day of April, 2026.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Matthew Moore 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: November 06, 2025

INVITATION TO BID

General Contractor seeking Certified MBE/WBE quotes for the following project:

BERLIN

LEAD SERVICE LINE REPLACEMENT

Bid Date: December 3, 2025

Bid Time: 2:00 p.m.

Work consists of replacement of approx. 183 existing water services located along William Street, Broad Street, and Bay Street, from watermain to the proposed isolation valve within the footprint of the existing structure.

Plans and Specifications are available for review:

Teal Construction, Inc. 612 Mary Street Dover, DE 19904

Phone: (302) 678-9500

Fax: (302) 678-9715

An Equal Opportunity Employer

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Spencer Ayres Cropper

Ayres, Jenkins, Gordy & Almand, P.A.

6200 Coastal Highway, Suite 200 Ocean City, MD 21842

BAY WINDS 11 CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION

c/o Ayres, Jenkins, Gordy & Almand, P.A.

6200 Coastal Highway, Suite 200 Ocean City, Maryland 21842

Plaintiff vs. Annamarie Bauer 511 Robin Drive, Unit 104 Ocean City, Maryland 21842

Defendant IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MARYLAND FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND

CIVIL CASE NO. C-23-CV-25-00051

NOTICE

ANDREW WHITE 11300 ROCKVILLE PIKE STE 708 ROCKVILLE, MD 20852-3011

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES ESTATE NO. 20900

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the SUPERIOR court of MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NEW JERSEY appointed (1) JENEEN M MILLER-RUTAR whose address is 702 ELIZABETH AVE STEWARTSVILLE, NJ 088863237, (2) ANGELIQUE D GAUTHEIR whose address is 19 HAMILTON ST ENGLISHTOWN, NJ 07726-1541 as the PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE of the Estate of THOMAS GABRIEL MILLER who died on MARCH 18, 2025 domiciled in NEW JERSEY, USA. The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is (1) ANDREW WHITE whose address is 11300 ROCKVILLE PIKE STE 708 ROCKVILLE, MD 20852-3011, (2) ANDREW WHITE whose address is 11300 ROCKVILLE PIKE STE 708 ROCKVILLE, MD 20852-3011. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: WORCESTER.

All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or

(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

Maryland, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings and described as 128 B Newport Bay Drive, Ocean City, MD 21842, made and reported by the Substitute Trustee, will be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 8th day of December, 2025, provided a copy of this NOTICE be inserted in some weekly newspaper printed in said County, once in each of three successive weeks before the 1st day of December, 2025.

The report states the purchase price at the Foreclosure sale to be $497,000.00.

Susan R. Braniecki Clerk, Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland True Copy

Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-11/13/3t

NOTICE

of Public Hearing

Expansion of the West Ocean City Sanitary Service Area to add multiple properties West of the Intersection with Sunset Avenue

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ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, this 5th day of November, 2025, that the foreclosure sale of Bay Winds II Condominium, Unit 104, 511 Robin Drive, Ocean City, Maryland, made and reported by Spencer Ayres Cropper, Trustee, be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 8th day of December, 2025, provided a copy of this Order is published in a newspaper of general circulation in Worcester County, Maryland, once in three successive weeks, before the 1st day of December, 2025.

The Report states that the total proceeds from the sale of the property to be One Hundred and SixtyFive Thousand Dollars ($165,000.00).

Susan R. Braniecki CLERK, CIRCUIT COURT True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-11/13/3t

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-11/13/3t

BWW Law Group, LLC

6003 Executive Blvd, Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852

ANDREW J. BRENNER, et. al. 6003 Executive Blvd, Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852

Substitute Trustees/ Plaintiffs, vs.

BRENDA L. MARCH

MICHAEL J. MARCH; SR. 128 B Newport Bay Drive Ocean City, MD 21842

Defendant(s).

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND Case No.C-23-CV-25-000012

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given this 7th day of November , 2025, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County,

The Worcester County Commissioners will hold a public hearing to consider applications filed by Hugh Cropper, IV, on behalf of multiple property owners for a proposed expansion of the West Ocean City Sanitary Service Area. The subject properties are located on the west side of Maryland Route 611 (Stephen Decatur Highway). They are more specifically identified on Worcester County Tax Map 26, as Parcels 274 – Par 2, 274-Par 3B, 274Par 1A, 274-Par 1BB, 274 – Par 1C, 274-Par 1-C, 424, 291, 365, 292, 290, 208 – Lot 1, 208 – Lot 2. The County Commissioners will evaluate the proposed expansion of the sanitary service area in accordance with the provisions of Section PW 5-305 of the Public Works Article of the Code of Public Local Laws of Worcester County, Maryland and the staff report. The public hearing on this applications will be held on

The public hearing on these applications will be held on TUESDAY, December 02, 2025 at 10:35 A.M. in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Room 1101 –Government Center One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863

The file containing the request for reclassification and other pertinent information which will be entered into the record of the public hearing are on file and are available for inspection at the Department of Environmental Programs, Worcester County Government Center, Suite 1306 (3rd floor), One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland, 21863 during regular business hours of 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. Questions may be directed to Robert Mitchell, Director, by calling (410) 632-1220, extension 1601 or email at bmitchell@worcestermd.gov

WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

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JAMES E. CLUBB JR, ESQ

108 N 8TH ST. OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES

ESTATE NO. 20905

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the COURT OF COMMON PLEAS ORPHANS' court of CHESTER COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA appointed (1) LAURA KEYS whose address is 2333 KIMBERTON RD PHOENIXVILLE, PA 19460-4741, (2) STEVEN ROBINSON whose address is 13913 ESWORTHY RD GERMANTOWN, MD 20874-3313 as the EXECUTOR of the Estate of MICHAEL JOHN ROBINSON who died on AUGUST 28, 2024 domiciled in PENNSYLVANIA, USA.

The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is (1) STEVEN ROBINSON whose address is 13913 ESWORTHY RD GERMANTOWN, MD 20874-3313. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: WORCESTER

All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or

(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-11/13/3t

JAY S. HOROWITZ PC 7 BROOKES AVE., STE. 103 GAITHERSBURG, MD 20877-2754

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20889 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF HEATHER G. GREENSPAN Notice is given that Felice Greenspan Griffith, 14206 Golden Hook Rd., Boyds, MD 20841-4324, was on November 06, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Heather G. Greenspan who died on April 18, 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 represen-

tative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 6th day of May, 2026.

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 May, 2026.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Felice Greenspan Griffith 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: November 13, 2025

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NOTICE

OF PUBLIC HEARING PLANNING AND ZONING COMISSION

TOWN OF OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110 of the Code of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Zoning Ordinance for Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted by the Planning and Zoning Commission for Ocean City, Maryland in the Council Chambers of City Hall located on Baltimore Avenue and Third Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on: Tuesday, December 2, 2025 AT 6:00 P.M.

Notice is hereby given that the Town of Ocean City Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a second public hearing on the draft 2025 Comprehensive Plan Update, on December 2 at 6:00 p.m. in the Council

Council of Co-Owners of Boardwalk One, Inc. c/o Ayrika Fletcher, Trustee 4709 Harford Road Baltimore, Maryland 21214 (443) 672.8107

COUNCIL OF CO-OWNERS OF BOARDWALK ONE, INC.

P.O. Box 762

Ocean City, Maryland 21842

Plaintiff, v. Henriette Ventura, et al. Defendants IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-24-000220

NOTICE

ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland this 7th day of November, 2025 that the foreclosure sale of the properties mentioned in these proceedings, made and reported. by Ayrika Fletcher, Trustee, be

RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 8th day of December, 2025, provided a copy of this Order be inserted in some daily newspaper printed in Worcester County, Maryland once in each of three successive weeks, before the 1st day of December, 2025.

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 interval:

TIMESHARES SOLD: BW1 = Council of Co-Owners of Boardwalk One, Inc.

Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, MD True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD

Chambers located in City Hall, 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland.

The purpose of the Comprehensive Plan is to direct and manage the future land use, development and natural resources conservation of the Town of Ocean City. The Town of Ocean City is required to update its Comprehensive Plan at least once every ten years by the Land Use Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland.

The Planning and Zoning Commission has completed a chapter-bychapter review and determined that updates are necessary to correct demographic data and analysis, and to confirm that policies and objectives are appropriate and still reflect the needs of the community. Once approved by the Mayor and City Council, the 2025 Comprehensive Plan Update will replace the adopted 2017 Comprehensive Plan as amended on March 5, 2018.

The final draft Comprehensive Plan Update and related documents can be viewed on the Town’s web site at the following address: https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/departments/planning-community-development/comprehensive-plan/, or at the Department of Planning and Community Development. Written comments may be submitted to Joe Wilson, Chairman, Planning and Zoning Commission, 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842 or online from the webpage. Contact George Bendler, Planning Director, at (410) 289-8973 or GBendler@oceancitymd.gov for more information.

Public comment at the hearing is encouraged. Speaker sign-up will begin at 5:30 p.m. for those wishing to speak. The regular business meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission will begin at 6:00 p.m. and the public hearing is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. Citizens with special

needs may call prior to the hearing at (410) 289-8855.

Further information concerning the public hearings may be examined in the office of the Department of Planning and Community Development in City Hall. Joseph Wilson, Chairman Maureen Howarth, Attorney OCD-11/13/3t

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS

NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of THOMAS W. HASTINGS Estate No. 20857 Notice is given that

NETTIE B. HASTINGS whose address is P.O. BOX 213, BISHOPVILLE, MD 21813-0213 was on NOVEMBER 06, 2025 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of THOMAS W. HASTINGS who died on SEPTEMBER 06, 2025 with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All 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

Put Your Business Card Where It Gets Noticed and Seen By Thousands of People

days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

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SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20792 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ANNA MARIA JARVIS

Notice is given that Judy Quillen Jarvis, 30296 Jay Patch Rd., Selbyville, DE 19975-3023, was on October 17, 2025 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Anna Maria Jarvis who died on June 16, 2025, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or

(2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Judy Quillen Jarvis 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: November 13, 2025

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www.batielaw.com

Berlin offers parade parking spots through auction site

Rights for prime locations available for bid, money will go to community center

(Nov. 14, 2025) The Town of Berlin is conducting its second auction this year to support the future Community Center.

Many residents and visitors have asked for ways to secure parking in the Town of Berlin on one of the busiest nights of the year, the first Thursday in December, during the annual Christmas Parade, and have suggested they would even be willing to pay for a spot closer to the parade.

Building on the great success of the Town’s Street Sign Auction over the summer —which raised over $10,000 for the community center through the sale via auction of old street signs — the mayor’s office has launched a parade parking auction for just 11 parking spots facing Main Street in the triangle War Memorial Parking lot, across the street from Stevenson Methodist Church, steps from the parade stage.

“Every dollar raised helps show other possible funders how the Town of Berlin residents are engaged and committed to this project,” Mayor

Zack Tyndall said. “Funds from the sale of town flags, street signs, Berlin license plates in 2026, and even Christmas Parade parking spots will all help to build the community center.”

About 20 street signs that were not sold via auction over the summer are also available for purchase at a “buy now” rate of $30.

Berlin’s Community Center is a long-dreamed-of asset in the Town of Berlin. Through a partnership between the Town of Berlin, Berlin Community Improvement Association (BCIA), SHOREUP! Inc., and the Worcester County Commissioners, the town recently combined four parcels of property on Flower Street, formerly the site of the Flower Street School, for a future community center. The group is focused on a community center that will serve the entire Town of Berlin with necessary classroom space for Head Start, community meeting space, recreational activities, and access to social services.

The parade parking auction runs until Nov. 18. The link is https://tobm2.cbo.io

You can text “tobm2” to phone number 855-800-4975 to view the items and register to bid.

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Berlin hires comp plan consultant

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(Nov. 14, 2025) Following a vote this week, the Town of Berlin will contract with the firm Mead & Hunt for an update to the municipality’s comprehensive plan, a process that will guide future growth and development, for a cost of $99,075.

Town Administrator Mary Bohlen said the town is required to review its comprehensive plan every ten years. Berlin’s current plan was adopted in 2010 and reviewed without changes in 2020.

Bohlen said she chose to take the comprehensive plan project on during the upcoming town hall renovations. A total of eight firms returned proposals for the work, and Mead & Hunt was selected as the successful bid submitter.

Councilman Steve Green, who served on the review committee with Councilman Jack Orris, said the decision followed “a pretty extensive” process, including two four-hour meetings to review the four topranked applications.

Green noted that the comprehensive plan is essential to Berlin’s planning department and planning commission, as well as future developers, so they have “some indication of what we stand for as a town, what we’re looking for.”

He added that residents will have chances to offer their input on the community’s future, in what they would like to see in terms of infrastructure and development efforts.

“Citizens will have a survey; they’ll also have plenty of opportunities to weigh in along the way,” the councilman said.

Green also stated that the project was budgeted at $100,000, and the selected firm’s proposal fell within that amount. Additionally, the submission includes an interactive “story map” website that will be updated in phases and maintained by the consultants rather than the town.

Orris said the final choice was difficult given the strong applications, but he supported Mead & Hunt in part because of their community engagement approach and local connections.

“It did make it very tough, at least for me, to narrow it down to one,” Orris said. “But I think that was a plus in my book.”

Mead & Hunt have worked on the Greenway Master Trail project, an initiative that looks to create a network of bikeways, connecting local destinations and landscapes throughout Worcester County.

The selected firm’s proposal says that their execution of an updated comprehensive plan for Berlin “will be grounded in a collaborative, trans-

parent, and phased approach that reflects the town’s unique character, priorities, and aspirations.”

A timeline was included in Mead & Hunt’s submission. The project is scheduled to kick off in January 2026. From February to April, the firm will hold meetings to address topics like goals and policies, land use, transportation, municipal growth, historic and cultural resources, community facilities, water resources, natural resources, housing, economic development, and plan implementation.

“Our team is aware of stormwater and drainage issues around the town, specifically in the Flower Street and West Street areas, and is prepared to address these concerns,” Mead & Hunt’s proposal adds.

From May to July, the company will develop the plan, engaging with town residents and business owners to gather feedback on objectives. A first draft of the comp plan will be completed by late summer or early fall of 2026, and an open public meeting will be held for critiques. A final document will be submitted around November or December.

The council unanimously approved awarding the comprehensive plan update project to Mead & Hunt, with District 3 Councilwoman Shaneka Nichols absent.

Study highlights demand outpacing supply

Housing Needs Assessment update serves to confirm realities, offers suggestions

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer

(Nov. 14, 2025) The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) recently released an update to the 2020 Maryland Housing Needs Assessment (HNA).

In 2024, the National Center for Smart Growth (NCSG) at the University of Maryland, College Park partnered with the DHCD to conduct the update. It was designed to focus on three primary issue areas of key importance to DHCD: (1) housing affordability gaps for various

populations, (2) the connections between housing costs, land use, and regulation, and (3) housing needs for seniors. For each of these three key issues, NCSG provided more comprehensive or updated data to the 2020 HNA or added entirely new analysis that was not covered in the 2020 report.

Here a few key takeaways:

- Maryland needs about 590,000 new housing units by 2045 to meet

NOTICE OF LIVE AUCTION

Beach Equipment Franchise

$ 500 Minimum Bid Requirement for each Parcel

A public auction will be held on Wednesday, D December 3, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue in Ocean City, Maryland. R Registration begins at 9:00 a.m. A pre-auction discussion begins at 9:30 a.m. The following south-end parcels and one north-end parcel will be auctioned:

South-End Beach Parcels Inlet

South Division Street Worcester Street Somerset Street Talbot Street

North Division Street 1st Street 2nd Street 3rd Street 4th Street 5th Street 6th Street

South-End Beach Parcels 7th Street 8th Street 9th Street 10th Street 11th Street 12th Street 13th Street

14th Street

15th Street

16th Street 17th Street 18th Street

ON AUCTION DAY, the successful bidder shall:

South-End Beach Parcels 19th Street 20th Street 21st Street 22nd Street 23rd Street 24th Street 25th Street

26th Street 27th Street

North-End Parcel 128th, 129th & 130th Streets

(1) Provide satisfactory proof of identity and legal age (i.e. Driver’s License or Government-issued Photo ID)

(2) Pay a One Thousand Dollar ($1,000.00) n non-refundable deposit for each successful bid. Please bring cash, cashier’s checks or certified checks payable to the Mayor and City Council. P PERSONAL CHECKS NOT ACCEPTED.

On the dates specified below, the successful bidder shall:

(1) Submit a personal Credit Report on or before M Monday, December 8, 2025

(2) Sign a statement authorizing the Mayor and Council to make inquiry of personal background, financial and credit worthiness on or before M Monday, December 8, 2025.

(3) Pay 20% of the annual fee for each parcel less the $1,000.00 deposit to the Billing Office in City Hall on or before Monday, December 8, 2025

(4) Provide a brief plan of management on or before M Monday, December 8, 2025, clarifying if you will directly oversee the operation or, if not, how day-to-day operations will be handled; providing details of your experience with the beach equipment rental industry; and advising if you have obtained necessary equipment and boxes or of your arrangements to acquire necessary equipment.

(5) Obtain, at the operator's own expense, comprehensive general liability insurance coverage and products liability insurance coverage in at least the amount of $1,000,000.00 combined single limit, which insurance coverage shall name the Mayor and City Council as an additional insured, and a certificate of insurance evidencing such coverage shall be furnished to the Mayor and City Council by the operator and be approved by the City Clerk before contract endorsement.

(6) The second-highest bidder will have first right of refusal should the initial successful bidder neglect to meet credit, experience or management requirements. A sealed bid will be conducted if the second-highest bidder declines the award. The Mayor and Council may reject any and all bids for any reason it deems appropriate and may rebid upon such terms, conditions and manner it deems appropriate.

(7) Sign a three-year contract (2026-2028) for each south-end parcel. Sign a two-year contract (2026-2027) for the north-end parcel.

An auction bid packet can be found at http://oceancitymd.gov/oc/departments/city-clerk/ or email dchavis@oceancitymd.gov to request the information. Please direct questions to 410-289-8842.

projected demand.

- The cost burden for renters has increased from 33% since 2000 to 46% since 2022.

- Homeownership is increasingly out of reach for moderate-income households. In the year 2000, close to 75% of households in Maryland could afford the median-valued home. By 2022, that share had dropped to only 49%.

- For every 1,000 renters earning 0–30% of Area Median Income (AMI), 610 affordable homes are missing.

- The lower shore has an average of 20% - 55%+ of its renters falling in the cost burdened category.

The HNA summarized that the following needed to occur:

- Housing production must increase, in tandem with an upzoning of land in localities where housing is most desirable. Given projected shortages of land zoned for denser housing types, especially at moderate and high densities, housing will likely continue to become more expensive.

- Production of protected affordable homes, especially for the most vulnerable (older adults and extremely low-income renters), must increase, coupled with preservation of existing affordable housing. With prices likely to continue to increase in the short term, the state’s most vulnerable will continue to be at risk of housing instability, highlighting the importance of no net loss of the existing supply.

- The state must continue to double down on progress toward providing supportive housing to those experiencing homelessness, given that this population faces more challenges than ever in obtaining stable, affordable housing.

Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record for Keller Williams Realty Delmarva in Ocean City.

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Council pushes back on parade chair policy

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(Nov. 14, 2025) A discussion this week among Berlin officials and residents highlighted frustrations over the town’s new policy that limits when spectators can place chairs along Main Street ahead of the annual Christmas Parade and summertime Bathtub Races.

The town recently announced that members of the streetside audience cannot place chairs or blankets along the sidewalks until two hours before an event begins, when the roads are formally closed for the event. In the case of the Christmas Parade, scheduled for Dec. 4 this year at 7 p.m., that means no seating is permitted before 5 p.m.

Before the rule change, chairs and blankets were lined up on the sidewalks along Main Street, sometimes even before sunrise on the day of the Christmas Parade, by residents who aimed to secure a front-row viewing position. Now, that tradition is coming to an end.

Despite the argument from staff that the new policy will make the pedestrian paths safer for wheelchair users and other individuals with disabilities, some residents argue that the move is not fair.

During Monday’s mayor and council meeting, resident Mary Hedlesky stated that enforcement feels unfair to residents. At the same time, businesses continue to place merchandise, tables, and sandwich boards along the sidewalks throughout the year.

“I don’t have a problem with the policy itself and the reasons behind it, but it’s very unfair,” Hedlesky said. “It’s two times a year where we allow residents to put chairs out for the Christmas Parade and Bathtub Races, and meanwhile, businesses do this 365 days a year. It’s just not right.”

The rule mandating that pathways be kept clear has been in place for years, but was rarely enforced. Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall said the decision to implement the regulation was based on safety and accessibility concerns.

“The stem of this really was last year; we had some folks in wheelchairs that could not access or move about the sidewalks in Berlin,” Tyndall said. “...[Chairs] were blowing into the streets multiple times, and then public works had to go out there and set them back up in what they thought was the appropriate space…It does feel like home seeing the chairs lined up along Main Street. But we also have to be cognizant that we have a responsibility to make sure those sidewalks are ADA compliant and the chairs are not ending up in the streets like they have been.”

Councilman Jay Knerr asked why the policy announcement had been released without council input.

“We had this longstanding policy that was never enforced, and then all of a sudden it gets enforced,” Knerr said. “Why did that happen, and why wasn’t the council involved? It’s frustrating to

get calls asking why we did something that we didn’t know about.”

Economic and Community Development Director Ivy Wells previously explained that for popular events like the Christmas Parade, chairs have been placed as early as 6 a.m. Town staff reported that chairs and blankets frequently blocked walkways, created tripping hazards, and blew into Main Street, necessitating repeated cleanup efforts.

Hedlesky suggested that businesses temporarily remove sidewalk displays during the Christmas Parade and the Bathtub Races to allow residents to place seats earlier without blocking pathway access.

“Because of what’s already there, the residents are the ones being slighted,” she said.

Town staff pushed back, arguing that

technically, businesses are also prohibited from congesting sidewalks with signs and clothes racks, but that it’s easier for enforcement staff to communicate the rule to storefront employees. The chairs, however, are left unattended.

“If you have a business and they put out the biggest mannequin, we can knock on the door, and the mannequin will be moved,” Police Chief Arnold Downing said. “The business is there.”

Downing added that last year’s parade day was exceptionally busy with shoppers, and the chairs blocked the paths.

“People had a heck of a time trying to move, and chairs were flying,” the police chief said.

Staff emphasized that while the chair policy may limit the timeframe for when residents and visitors can set

up their seats, they will still have the opportunity to reserve those prime spots.

Public Works Director Jimmy Charles said chairs are permitted, but not until road closures. “Chairs will be allowed, we’re just asking after 5 p.m.,” he said. “At two or three in the afternoon, they’re a headache.”

Hedlesky argued 5 p.m. is a time of “mass confusion” on the day of the Christmas event because parade floats are arriving and kids participating in the procession are being dropped off. Additionally, some officials raised concerns about how the policy is implemented. Councilman Steve Green (who is executive editor of this paper) said residents should not have to wait until the next day to retrieve their chairs if they are removed by staff.

Worcester County educators using data to help students

School system examines statistics to identify kids needing the most support

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

Hamill said that the purpose of the study, which Wallace tasked him to undertake in June, is to “discover the best metrics at each grade level to determine students in need of intervention as early as possible.”

(Nov. 6, 2025) Worcester County education officials are implementing new data-driven tools to help teachers identify struggling readers earlier, with a focus on first grade as the key turning point for long-term literacy success.

At a recent Worcester County Board of Education meeting, Tom Hamill, coordinator of research and student information, and Jennifer McDowell, local accountability coordinator, presented data initiatives and student intervention steps to ensure that every child in the county has the opportunity to achieve academic achievement.

“Part of our literacy initiative to have every child on grade level by grade three was having [Hamill] work to triangulate back to figure out who those kids are in first grade, because the truth of it is… the turning point for students is really in first grade,” said Worcester County Public Schools Superintendent Annette Wallace. “That’s where we need to make sure we’re getting our interventions in so that it’s not such a heavy lift in third grade.”

He added that he and his team worked to “build a tool that would allow us to identify and then track these students as they progress through grade levels.”

They began in kindergarten with the DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills) assessment, a pre-reading evaluation designed to provide educators with an understanding of how well kindergarten students can engage with basic reading skills.

Hamill looked at the school system’s current fifth-grade students, tracing their progress back to when they were in kindergarten, and working his way up to the present. DIBELS was looked at first, which is administered to WCPS’s youngest learners three times a year.

Hamil said that this data revealed that students who scored below benchmark at the end of the year DIBELS test had a 40% chance of passing the English Language Arts (ELA) Maryland State exam, known as the Maryland Comprehensive Assessment

Schools look to strengthen student support

Program (MCAP), in the third grade.

“This is the first red flag that if we have a student that is at or below, their probability of passing by the time they get to third grade is really low,” Hamill said.

Moving to first grade, Hamill said that iReady assessments provide crucial insight. The diagnostics are scored with designations like at level, above grade level, and then below grade level, one level below grade level, two levels below grade level, and so on. These exams are given to students three times a year.

“We found that students who were two or more grade levels below at the first administration, usually given in September, are at extreme risk of not passing MCAP ELA 3. Then, students who were one level below at the fall assessment were at about half and half probability of passing. And then students who were at or above grade level at the beginning of first grade, had a very high probability of passing the MCAP ELA 3 test.”

When the kids take the iReady exam in the winter, the second assessment in first grade, Hamill added that students who stayed at one grade level below have a 58% probability of passing the third-grade state assessment.

“This is actually a little better than I would expect,” he said. “It does show that some of the efforts we are exerting in first grade are having a positive effect, because you would expect that a student at one grade level below is not going to have a high likelihood of passing the MCAP, and yet we saw that it was 58%. Not great, but higher than I would expect.”

He continued, “We also found that students who move from one grade level below to at or above grade level, so if they start a little bit below but manage to catch up by winter, those students have an 82% chance of passing the MCAP in third grade. We’re finding that first grade is a really important time for not only identifying when students are going to need additional help, but also in providing that help to them.”

Educators also measure literacy through the program, “Fundations,” which is intended to teach foundational reading skills. Hamill said that students take regular assessments throughout the year, at the conclusion of each unit. He said that students who average less than an 80%, at the end of the year, have a “high probability” of not passing the third-grade ELA MCAP.

“So, we’re saying that even if our iReady is looking good, if our Fundations is showing an inherent weakness, it’s something we have to be aware of and concerned about,” Hamill maintained.

The WCPS staff member emphasized that while the presented data does show patterns and predictions for student success, it should not be taken

as a prophecy. The statistics can be used by teachers to implement effective intervention plans, ensuring that each child is given the proper tools to catch up to their peers.

A key component in elevating each student to grade level is identifying those “bubble students,” specifically those who are within 10 points of passing the state assessment. Hamill said that this study revealed that 40% to 45% of WCPS test-takers fall in this category.

“Part of this program is an attempt to identify these kids so they’re not our next bubble kids, they’re our next passing kids,” he said.

To achieve this, the school system and its teachers must implement targeted intervention strategies to support children who may be falling behind.

For instance, McDowell said that she recently sat down with fourthgrade students to review their class’s most recent MCAP scores from third grade. These results are broken down into reading proficiency and writing proficiency. As such, teachers can determine in which content areas their learners need the most help.

To ensure the younger kids are redirected, kindergarten teachers can dig deeper into DIBELS to identify weaknesses, such as letter naming. Intervention plans are tailored to each student, with varying lengths and goals.

“If kindergarten DIBELS, at the end of the year, is below average or below benchmark, we need to plan intensive support immediately,” Hamill said. “We need to plan on having that support in place for the next three years.

The student may emerge, and we can exit them out, but the idea has to be that the student is starting at a position that is challenging to come back from, and they are going to need additional support.”

Wallace said that this kind of data is new to the school system and that they intend to use the study to “drill down” on areas where a student may need help, such as in reading or writing, and identify the topics within those subjects that they find most challenging.

“We haven’t been able to get over the hurdle of asking everyone to make plans for success,” she said. “We just didn’t have all this information.”

Now, WCPS plans to use the measurements to achieve its goal of ensuring that each student is reading at grade level by the end of the third grade.

VETERANS DAY CEREMONY

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

REQUESTED Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan FY 2027 through FY 2031 Worcester County, Maryland

The Worcester County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing on the REQUESTED Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for fiscal year (FY) 2027 through FY2031. The CIP is a planning document the County will use in preparing future operating budgets, to anticipate future financial needs of the County and to identify possible funding resources. Inclusion of a project in the CIP does not constitute a guarantee of funding from the County. Some capital projects will be added, deleted and/or amended as necessary. As with the Operating Budget, the projects for each fund have to be balanced with the resources available in that fund. Copies of the Worcester County REQUESTED Capital Improvement Plan for FY2027 through FY2031 summary may be obtained online at www.co.worcester.md.us. For additional information, please contact the County Administration Office at (410) 632-1194.

The public hearing will be held on:

Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. in the

County Commissioners Meeting Room Room 1101 - Government Center One West Market Street Snow Hill, Maryland 21863

BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

The Worcester County Veterans Memorial Foundation hosted a traditional Veterans Day ceremony on Tuesday, Nov. 11, to honor all who have served in the military. The ceremony featured patriotic music and a salute to all branches of the Armed Forces. This year’s guest speaker was Col. John Fenzel, retired Senior Army Special Forces Officer, who served in both war and peace, extending from Washington D.C. to the Middle East. The ceremony also included the dedication of a National Gold Star Memorial, pictured bottom right, presented to the Worcester County Veterans Memorial by the Worcester County Garden Club, a member of the Garden Club of America and Federated Garden Clubs of Maryland.

Ocean Pines police will add stun guns soon

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(Nov. 7, 2025) Police officers in Ocean Pines will be equipped with stun guns by the end of this year, according to Chief Tim Robinson.

“In modern policing, our job is to make sure my officers have the latest and greatest things that are out there, the industry standard. A Taser is the industry standard,” Robinson told OC Today-Dispatch.

Colloquially referred to as stun guns, or sometimes by the brand name Taser, electronic control devices give police officers an in-between tool that’s not as deadly as a firearm and not as in-your-face as a hand-to-hand interaction.

Robinson said stun guns used properly can prevent permanent injury to either a citizen or an officer.

“I would rather be prepared to handle something and not need to use the equipment than to have our officers be in a situation where they were at an extreme disadvantage and their only options would be to go hands-on or use lethal force,” he said.

Robinson announced at an Oct. 30 meeting of the Police Accountability Board that the Ocean Pines Police Department had placed the order.

He told OC Today-Dispatch that a dozen Axon-brand stun guns should arrive by the end of the year, and the 12 officers on his roster will spend two days on training. The $60,590 purchase was funded through federal pass-through dollars and administered by the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy.

Any time a Taser is used, it’s qualified as a “use of force.” That gener-

ates a report which gets reviewed by an oversight board – standard practice for most police departments in 2025.

Notably, the Ocean Pines Police Department has logged zero uses of force in the two years that Robinson has been chief here, after having served 27 years with the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office.

It’s not the first time Robinson has introduced a new tool for his officers in Ocean Pines. In summer 2023, when he joined the agency, he launched a body camera program for officers, also manufactured by Axon.

A 2021 state law made body cameras mandatory for police officers in Maryland as of July 1 of this year.

Officers in Ocean Pines were skeptical at first about body cameras, Robinson said, and didn’t want to be

recorded all the time. However, they’ve learned that body camera recordings often protect the officers from accusations of impropriety or bad behavior.

“They’re impartial arbiters of what happened,” he said of body cam footage. “There’s many times in my previous employment when a complaint came in. Most of the time we were able to exonerate the officers by reviewing what actually happened.”

For now, Ocean Pines is the only law enforcement agency in Worcester County that doesn’t issue a stun gun as a weapon for police officers.

Robinson also said his department is working with a policy consultant called Lexipol to get policies written on tasers and use of force. Once enacted, those policies will be made public on the Ocean Pines website.

Council upset about lack of input on chairs

Continued from Page 65

“I think that’s very rude, honestly,” Green said, referring to the social media post. “They should be able to get their chairs back whenever they want.”

According to Downing and Town Administrator Mary Bohlen, guests who have their seats confiscated can pick them up that same day. However, the Facebook post by the Town of Berlin Main Street and Arts and Entertainment District from Oct. 28 reads that to pick up a chair, residents should “contact the Berlin Police Department non-emergency line or Town Hall the following day.”

Despite the post, staff maintained those whose blankets or chairs were removed would be able to get them immediately.

Tyndall maintained the policy will ultimately improve the parade operation, even if the longstanding tradition must be compromised.

“I thought the chairs were cool, but I have to balance that with accessibility and staff time,” the mayor said. “We only have a finite amount of staff, and then for one of our busiest events, if they have to be pulled to pull chairs out of the road, it creates a lot of challenges.”

Opinions

Projects consider home affordability

More housing is on the way for northern Worcester County, as projects on both sides of Route 50 work their way through the county planning and permit approval process.

Yesterday, plans for Racetrack Village, a residential development consisting of 137 units on Route 589, got the onceover from the county’s Technical Review Committee. The plan there is to offer these units for sale at what the developers hope will be “affordable” prices, meaning a price point that’s lower than what the resort real estate market usually sees.

Meanwhile, on the other side of Route 50, the developers of Coastal Square, a shopping center to be anchored by a Giant supermarket, have included in their plans a 168-unit rental apartment complex.

The business community in particular should welcome both, as the housing components of both these projects are desperately needed, as rental rates and sales prices remain far out of reach for most coastal area workers.

While no tracking is available on year-round rent, it stands to reason that rates do reflect sales prices, which are about twice as much as they were 10 years ago.

Ten years ago, in September 2016, the average sales price of a home in Worcester County was $269,346, according to data compiled by the Maryland Association of Realtors. At the same time, Worcester had 1,328 housing units — a little more than a seven-month supply — in its active inventory.

Fast forward to this past September and the differences are striking. The average sales price: $509,342, or about 89% higher, while inventory dropped to less than a five-month supply with 780 units in inventory.

Looking at these figures, it’s easy to see why employers and employees should welcome these two and future projects that cater to a the appreciative market of working residents. Projects like these will go a long way to toward allowing people to live where they work.

PUBLIC EYE

Trillion-dollar man

Elon Musk, bless his socially awkward heart, is on track to be paid a trillion dollars a year to remain with Tesla, and now, after a couple of weeks or so of people asking the obvious — does he also get mileage even though he drives an electric car? — no one seems to be making a big deal of it.

My guess is this is because they’re saying, “Yeah, yeah, but that’s a trillion gross. What’s his take-home?”

of doing, since a trillion-dollar paycheck is just symbolism to him. I, on the other hand, could use the money.

For instance, I’d buy the office lunch now and then. Do you think Musk got on the office intercom after making his deal and said to the 22,000 employees at Tesla’s Austin, Texas headquarters, “Hey! Who’s up for burgers? I’m buying!” And he then ran out and bought 80 Burger King franchises so everyone would get served at roughly the same time.

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By Stewart Dobson

That’s a fair point, because a trillion dollars isn’t what it used to be. By the time the payroll department deducts withholding and social security, Musk is going to look at that pay stub and say, “What the ...? $370 billion in withholding tax AND $11,000 in Social Security? I’m not making as much as I thought. Dang! I gotta talk to Congress about upping the child tax credit.”

Personally, I think a trillion dollars is an obscene amount of money to pay a guy who doesn’t even have a good fastball, much less the ability to hit 40/50 home runs each year.

I mean, really — is Elon Musk better at what he does than the Dodger’s Shohei Ohtani is at playing baseball and whose pay is a lousy $700 million OVER TEN YEARS?

Somehow, I can’t quite grasp that the best baseball player who ever lived is worth just seven hundredths of one percent as much as a guy who sells new cars and used rockets. It’s not like he builds these cars and rockets himself. He pays other people to do it.

To be honest, I’m just jealous because I’d do things that Elon Musk would never think

That’s what I’d do if I was making a trillion. Sure, those 80 franchises would cost somewhere around $240 million, but good service is worth it, not to mention making sure there are enough of those paper crowns to go around.

Besides, $240 million is tip money when you’re making a trillion. I know if I had that kind of paycheck, I’d be doing a little better by the Dunkin’ Donuts people. Instead of handing over whatever change is left after my purchase, I’d say, “Hey, here’s a hundred grand. Go get yourself something nice.”

But, alas, I will not make a trillion dollars this year, despite my many requests to that effect and even though I thought I made it clear that I NEED that trillion dollars because I have expenses too.

I’ve been holding off buying new kitchen cabinets, for instance, and then I had thought about buying England, which would be doable in three easy installments if they had a Flex pay program.

But no. Now that Elon Musk has his deal in place, it’s taken all the fun out of it for us trillionaires-in-waiting and has left us with just one other option to break away from the regular workaday world: so far, I’ve got my fastball up to 50 mph, so there’s hope.

Between the Lines

By Steve Green

During the Luke Bryan concert at Country Calling in October, there was an extended break. Many in attendance had no idea at the time what caused the random delay, save learning through hearsay there was a medical emergency of some sort. It was learned and confirmed this week it was a veteran music photographer who was severely injured in an accidental fall. The photographer, Dave Parsons, shared his story online, “When the Music Stopped: A Night at Country Calling Festival That Changed Everything.” I recommend giving it a Google and reading the entire reflection piece the now disabled man wrote with his family and technology assistance. Here are some excerpts from the moving piece.

“I don’t remember the moment of impact. One second I was doing my job, the thing I’ve done thousands of times. The next, I was on the ground, and something was very, very wrong. A steel beam, that’s what they told me later, positioned at exactly the wrong height in exactly the wrong place.

“Help.” I don’t know if I screamed it or whispered it, but the photographers around me were suddenly kneeling. In what felt like seconds EMS was there. Later, someone told me it took thirty seconds. Thirty seconds. In a crowd of thousands, with the complexity of a festival environment, emergency medical personnel reached me in half a minute. That’s not just professionalism—that’s the kind of preparation and coordination that saves lives, and did.

But here’s the thing that still gets me, that I replay in my mind during the long hours of rehabilitation: Luke Bryan had stopped singing. Think about that for a moment. You’re one of the biggest stars in country music. You’ve got a crowd of thousands who paid good money to see you perform. You’re in the middle of one of your signature songs, the energy is peaking, you’re in the zone where performers live and breathe. And you stop. You stop everything because someone in the pit—someone you can barely see, someone who’s just part of the usual chaos at your feet—is hurt.

A fan near me shouted up to Luke Bryan: “Keep singing!” It was the logical thing to say. The show must go on, right? Isn’t that the cardinal rule of entertainment? Luke Bryan’s response is something I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life: “The beer line should be short, go help yourself. We are going to be a few minutes.” In that moment, he made a choice. He chose humanity over spectacle. He gave up his stage, his moment, for a photographer he’d never met, whose name he didn’t know, whose face he couldn’t pick out of a crowd.

At some point during the extraction, I looked up at the stage one last time. Luke Bryan was standing there, and the look on his face is something I can’t adequately describe with words. Horror doesn’t quite capture it. Neither does concern or worry. It was the look of someone watching a nightmare unfold in real time, someone who understood on a visceral level that life had just changed irrevocably for a stranger, and there wasn’t a damn thing he could do about it except wait and hope. That’s the last thing I remember from the Country Calling Festival: Luke Bryan’s face …

The life flight to Baltimore is mostly gone from my memory … I could see the festival from the sky and all I can remember thinking was “I can’t get to my cameras”. It would have been a hell of a shot …”

The moving first-hand account is worth a full read. Parsons’s daughter wrote on his GoFundMe page, “doctors are hopeful he will eventually regain 80-90% of his previous mobility, he has a long road of physical therapy ahead of him.”

The “Watergate” situation that unfolded in Ocean Pines late last week has settled down. Readers recall the Southgate Grill posted on its Facebook page last week it was going to start charging $2 for water with free refills to mitigate a 185% increase on the county’s water bill from the same quarter last year. The post read in part, “if we want to stay in business we have to maintain our profit margin … We will happily stop charging for water the moment the rates are no longer ASTRONOMICAL.”

On Sunday, Nov. 9, Southgate admitted charging for water for a few days was “ragebait” to bring attention to the massive spike in water rates. The most recent post read, “an increase of this magnitude could easily put an already struggling family or business “under water” so to say. Please reach out to your local politicians and ask for rates to be adjusted moving forward or at least decreased next year on a reasonable scale. What was not a joke was the fact that our rates increased 185% for the same period last year (usage calculated as same as previous year but with new rates). Our bill truly is $10,862 for the quarter 7/1 - 9/30. Public works confirmed we have 0 leaks and the bill and meter reading are both correct.”

The restaurant is offering for a certain period of time a drink on the house (with limitations) to any customer who paid $2 while the new fee was in effect last weekend.

Laissez faire approach to blame in county Editor,

The county raised sewerage rates and paid for a study that concluded most homes in the county are substandard.

Instead of realizing that the grant that paid for the housing study could also lead to funding for citizens to modernize, and instead of owning the absolute deficiencies of the commissioner's approach to development's need for water and power, our commissioners continue to sentence the people of the shore to their neverending beef with Annapolis.

County retirement fund overflows, average home price through the roof and county landscapers still use gas blowers to litter everywhere they go.

The laissez faire attitude of our wealthy politicians reminds me of New Orleans 100%. What exactly do they do except argue with ghosts?

Greg Gunther Snow Hill

Independent voters deserve a voice Editor,

I am one of almost a million Maryland voters – 22.5% of the electorate – who are unaffiliated with either of the two major political parties.

I registered as an independent because I believe 'We The People' must interact directly with our government, not just choose between two parties that often fail to hold themselves accountable.

Like millions of independents across the country, we represent the fastest-growing segment of voters. Yet in Maryland, we are denied the

right to participate in the very elections that often matter most: the primaries.

Maryland’s primaries are paid for with public dollars and administered by state officials. They are not private club elections. And yet, unless I join a political party, I cannot cast a ballot in these contests. This system effectively suppresses all voices outside the two-party structure and tells voters like me that our voices don’t matter until the general election, when it’s often too late.

As Marylanders, we should each ask what the American Dream means if some of us are denied a voice in shaping it. Our liberty begins with the right to participate, fully and freely in our democracy.

In many districts where one party dominates, the decisive election takes place without the input of nearly a quarter of Maryland voters. That is not only unfair—it is profoundly antidemocratic.

In May 2025, the Open Primaries Education Fund, in partnership with former Lieutenant Governor Boyd Rutherford, filed a lawsuit on behalf of five plaintiffs against the Maryland State Board of Elections, challenging the state’s closed primary system as unconstitutional.

This legal challenge gives voice to what so many of us believe: no American should ever have to join a political party to exercise the right to vote. We hope the courts will uphold the rights of independent voters.

Our nation’s history is rooted in expanding participation and ensuring that all citizens have a voice. Excluding independents from publicly funded elections undermines both the integrity of our democracy and Continued on Page 75

Tern raft creates a safe habitat for waterbirds

By Joe Zimmerman Contributing Writer

(Nov. 14, 2025) Maryland’s tern raft hosted hundreds of terns again this year—including nesting pairs of two different state-listed-endangered species—and saw more than 350 tern chicks fledge during the island habitat’s fifth year in operation.

The wooden-framed artificial island

has floated in Chincoteague Bay in Worcester County since 2021 and serves as a breeding habitat for colonial nesting waterbirds that are listed as endangered in Maryland. The populations of these waterbirds in the state drastically declined by as much as 95% since the 1980s due to habitat loss caused by sea level rise. Through five seasons, the breeding

platform has provided safe habitat for more than 1,100 common tern nests, with more than 1,100 tern chicks fledging from the site, making it the most productive breeding site for terns in the state.

In 2025, for the first time, royal terns also nested on the tern raft. From 29 nests, eight royal tern chicks fledged. “Over five years this has become a

big success—it’s producing equal to and in many cases higher than natural colonies,” Dave Brinker, a DNR Wildlife and Heritage Service avian conservation ecologist who helps to lead the tern raft project. “There’s more work to do, but in Worcester County, we’ve turned around a massive decline.”

PHOTO COURTESY DNR

A tern raft is pictured in the Chincoteague Bay south of Ocean City last summer.

Raft brings in more birds yearly

Continued from Page 74

The tern raft was built by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, the Maryland Coastal Bays Program, and Audubon Mid-Atlantic to replicate nesting habitat that had declined in the area. In Maryland’s coastal bays, many small islands that had previously hosted nesting waterbirds have washed away. When the nesting platform was constructed in 2021, there were nearly zero nesting terns left in the coastal bays.

That year, crews bolted together eight platforms into a 32-foot-by-32foot artificial island and covered the surface with crushed surf clam shells to mimic the sandy beaches where terns like to nest. They also added artificial grasses and chick houses for shelter.

Before long, common terns arrived at the raft—attracted by decoy terns and speakers playing tern calls on the artificial island. The common terns built 23 nests that year, and 22 chicks fledged to maturity.

Since then, common terns have kept coming, and in steadily increasing numbers. In 2022, after staff expanded the raft to 48 feet by 48 feet, the platform hosted 155 nests, followed by 323 nests in 2023. And many of the same terns were nesting again on the artificial island, with often a close to 80% return rate, indicating that these birds had become strongly attached to the

new breeding site.

“The work required to install, deploy, maintain and monitor the artificial breeding raft is significant, but to have this kind of success over the years makes it a very worthwhile endeavor,”

Maryland Coastal Bays Program Executive Director Kevin Smith said. “I credit the success to the incredible partnership with our DNR colleagues and the loyal volunteers who come out year after year to help with this project.”

Terns migrate vast distances every year, breeding in the summer in the Caribbean, the United States, and Canada before wintering in Central and South America. Individual birds at Maryland’s tern raft have traveled from

See TERN Page 76

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Continued from Page 73

the trust of voters who already feel alienated from a political system that does not reflect their views.

It is time for Maryland to end this exclusionary practice. Independent voters deserve a seat at the table. For more information, please visit Let Us Vote Maryland at https://maryland.letusvote.org/.

Sincerely, Ed Tinus Whaleyville

raft considered a success

Continued from Page 75

as far as Punta Rasa, Argentina, south of Buenos Aires.

Biologists with DNR and the Coastal Bays Program monitor the terns by banding juveniles and adults, in addition to counting nests and following the number of chicks that fledge. This year, DNR and Coastal Bays Program staff cordoned off a separate section of the raft for the royal terns so they wouldn’t crowd out the smaller common terns.

Every fall, staff and volunteers with the help of the Maryland Forest Service dismantle the raft segments and take them out of the water for the winter. In the spring they reverse the process, launching it into the coastal bays and reassembling the 18 segments into the floating island.

With the success of the tern raft, biologists are now looking to the next steps of establishing nesting colonies on islands and beaches in Maryland. Since nesting colonies establish every year at the raft, terns know to come to the area and can more easily move on to other nearby sites, Brinker said.

In 2024, DNR and the Coastal Bays

Program restored 100 feet of beach as a nesting habitat on Reedy Island in Ocean City. This year, 39 breeding pairs of common terns successfully nested there, which Brinker said was only possible because of the nearby raft.

“An important part of the raft is maintaining a breeding population in Maryland so when we can take these next steps and improve habitat, the birds are local and they can just move next door,” he said. “If we hadn’t put the raft in, I think it would be a much bigger struggle to get founding birds to occupy this newly restored habitat.”

In the fall, the birds from the tern raft are well on their way to their next destinations. While many have already headed south, some chicks tend to explore far and wide in their first year of flying—and one fledgling from Maryland’s tern raft was recently spotted in Cape Cod, said Kim Abplanalp, the bird habitat coordinator with Maryland Coastal Bays Program.

But by next spring, many of these terns will likely be back in Maryland, and back in the bustling colony on the tern raft.

German scientists moved to the U.S. after the world war

By Dr. Sam Ghaleb Contributing Writer

(Nov. 14, 2025) This week, 80 years ago, a number of very prominent German scientists began arriving in the United States. After the defeat of Germany, the United States started an operation to move hundreds of German scientists and engineers from Germany to the U.S., to help unlock the secrets of the latest German weapons technology.

In the last months of the war, Germany deployed novel weapons such as the V-1 cruise missile and the V-2 rocket. Both were used in large numbers to hit the city of London, and the port of Antwerp in Belgium, causing heavy damage.

Germany also developed and deployed the Me-262 jet fighter, the Me163 rocket aircraft, and the Type XXI U-boat, which was a high underwaterspeed submarine that could have revolutionized submarine warfare and given the Germans a distinct advantage.

If all these weapons could have been deployed early enough, the outcome of World War II in Europe could have been very different.

In the chaos following World War II, the U.S. government faced many difficult decisions, including what to do with the Third Reich’s scientific minds. These were the brains behind the Nazis’ once-indomitable war machine. So began Operation Paper Clip, a decade-long, covert project to bring Hitler’s scientists and their families to the United States. The project was originally called Operation Overcast.

After WWII ended in 1945, victorious Soviet and U.S. intelligence teams began a treasure hunt throughout oc-

cupied Germany for military and scientific booty. They were looking for things like new rocket and aircraft designs, medicines, and electronics. But they were also hunting down the most precious "spoils" of all — the scientists whose work had nearly won the war for Germany.

Of particular interest to the U.S. were scientists specializing in aerodynamics and rocketry (such as those involved in the V-1 and V-2 rocket projects), chemical weapons, chemical reaction technology and medicine. These scientists and their families were secretly brought to the United States, without State Department review and approval. Their service for Hitler's Third Reich, as well as the classification of many as war criminals or security threats also disqualified them from officially obtaining visas.

President Truman, however, authorized Operation Paperclip under one condition — no German scientist would be accepted into the U.S. if he had any war crimes record. Also, one of the main aims of the operation was capturing equipment before the Soviets arrived. The U.S. Army in the final stage of the war destroyed some of the German equipment to prevent it from being captured by the advancing Red Army.

Separate from Paperclip was an even-more-secret effort to capture German nuclear secrets, equipment and personnel (Operation ALSOS). Another American project (TICOM) gathered German experts in cryptography — the science of coding and decoding messages.

Originally, the U.S. military intended merely to debrief the German scientists and send them back to Germany. But when it realized the extent of the scientists’ knowledge and expertise, the War Department decided it would be a waste to send the scientists home.

Following the discovery of flying disc fighters/laser beam weaponry in German military bases, the War Department decided that NASA and the CIA must control this technology, and the Nazi scientists and engineers that had worked on this technology.

Realizing that the importation of scientists who had so recently worked for the Nazi regime, so hated by Americans, was a delicate public relations situation, the U.S. military cloaked the operation in secrecy.

In announcing the plan, a military spokesman merely indicated that some German scientists who had worked on rocket development had “volunteered” to come to the United States and work for a “very moderate salary.”

The voluntary nature of the scheme was somewhat undercut by the admission that the scientists were in “protective custody.” Upon their arrival in the United States, on Nov. 16, 1945, newsmen and photographers were not allowed to interview or photograph the newcomers.

A few days later, a source in Sweden claimed that the scientists were members of the Nazi team at Peenemunde where the V-weapons had been developed.

The situation pointed out one of the many ironies connected with the Cold War. The United States and the Soviet Union, once allies against Germany and the Nazi regime during World War II, were now in a fierce contest to acquire the best and brightest scientists who had helped arm the German forces in order to construct weapons systems to threaten each other.

The majority of the scientists, numbering almost 500, were deployed at White Sands Proving Ground, New Mexico; Fort Bliss, Texas; and Huntsville, Alabama, to work on guided missile and ballistic missile technology.

This in turn led to the foundation of NASA and the US Inter-Continental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) program. Many of these men were accused of war crimes, and others had stood trial at Nuremberg. One was convicted of

mass murder and slavery!

These scientists were directly responsible for major advances in rocketry, jet aircraft, medical treatments, and electronics. Much of the information surrounding Operation Paperclip is still classified.

One of the most controversial figures in this whole operation was the German rocket scientist Wernher von Braun, who led a group of engineers in creating the V-2 ballistic missile.

The weapon eventually killed 7,000 Allied troops and civilians in London and Antwerp, Belgium, and led to the deaths of 20,000 prisoners in the German forced labor camp where it was manufactured.

From 1937 to 1945, von Braun was the technical director of the Peenemunde rocket research center, where the V-2 rocket was developed. To bring him to the United States, his dossier was rewritten so he didn't appear to have been an enthusiastic Nazi.

Von Braun and his colleagues ultimately found a new home. After surrendering to the Americans, near the end of the war, the scientists were moved to the United States, where they quickly became a vital part of the U.S. Army’s own ballistic missile program, and the new National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), that was created for the sole purpose of exploring space flight and putting man in space.

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From NASA’s space flight facility in Huntsville, Alabama, von Braun and his team took aim at developing the Saturn rocket which would eventually be used to land the U.S. astronauts on the moon in July 1969. Von Braun, also became a celebrity in the 1950s and early 1960s, as one of Walt Disney's experts on the "World of Tomorrow." In 1970, he became NASA's associate administrator.

The basic fact remains that von Braun and all the other German scientists and engineers, designed and developed cutting-edge technology intended to help Hitler dominate the globe, “and he and most of his colleagues, did so with what von Braun never would deny was total commitment and enthusiasm.”

The question that still needs to be answered, was Operation Paperclip a moral outrage on the part of the United States, or did it help the U.S. win the Cold War? In other words, did the ends justify the means?

Next week: Nuremburg Sadly, Dr. Ghaleb passed away prior to the publication of this article.

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Wernher von Braun-German rocket pioneer

PATRICIA ROSE SCHLAUCH

Ocean City

Patricia Rose Schlauch (nee Pitman), 89, of Ocean City, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025, at her home surrounded by her loving family.

Patty was born on March 16, 1936, in Washington, D.C. to the late John and Frances Pitman. In 1959, she met the love of her life, Robert Schauch and they were married in 1960.

Patty worked as a cafeteria assistant at Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School in Beltsville, Maryland for 26 years. She retired on June 16, 1998, and then moved to Ocean City two years later with her husband.

Since Patty was a little girl, she has always had a special interest in dolls. This would be obvious to anyone who has ever been to her house since she has amassed a collection of more than 300 dolls and adorned her residence with them.

Her extensive collection includes celebrity dolls such as Liberace, John Wayne, Fred Astaire, and more. Patty was a member of a prestigious doll collectors club in the Washington, D.C area.

Patty enjoyed numerous activities

in the OC area including line dancing, weekly card games, and other social activities. She was a part of numerous clubs including the Red Hat Society, OC Senior Bowling, and the Fenwick Island Lions Club. Through taking part in these clubs, she made many friends and enjoyed actively aiding their humanitarian causes.

Patty was also a member of the Mariner’s Bethel Choir for 13 years in Ocean View, Delaware. She has loved singing since she was a teenager and has joined the choir at every church she attended.

Patty was preceded in death by her parents, her two brothers, John Pitman Jr. and Lawrence Pitman, and her son, Daniel Schlauch. She is survived and loved by her husband, Robert Schlauch, her three sons and spouses, Robert Schlauch Jr. (Miriam), Frank Schlauch, and Tom Schlauch (Laura); her six grandchildren and spouses, Katti Schlauch, Kris Schlauch, Sarah Schlauch (Eric Beyer), Thomas Schlauch Jr. (Hanna Rizkallah), Philippe Schlauch (Melissa Hoang), and Matthew Schlauch; and two great-grandchildren, Rose Beyer-Schlauch and Leo Beyer-Schlauch.

We love Patty with all our hearts and are grateful for every moment we had with her.

A funeral service was held Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025, at Mariner's

Bethel Global Methodist Church, 81 Central Ave. in Ocean View, Delaware. Burial was in the Mariner's Bethel Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Patty's name to Mariner's Bethel Global Methodist Church, 81 Central Ave, Ocean View, DE 19970 designated for “The Hope Center.”

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com

CHARLES RICHARD LAMPE

Selbyville, Del.

Charles “Chuck” Richard Lampe, 97, of Selbyville, Del., passed away peacefully in his home after a long illness on Thursday, Nov. 6, 2025, surrounded by his loving children.

Chuck was born on January 12, 1928, in Pekin, IL, the son of the late Charles and Ruth Lampe. The oldest of five children, he attended the University of Illinois on a football scholarship, where he met and married the love of his life, Marylou Thompson. He proudly served in the United States Army as a First Lieutenant during the Korean War. Throughout his career, Chuck relocated his family several times, living throughout the Midwest and East

Coast before finally settling in Delaware in the home he built with his own hands. Life at the shore brought him tremendous joy—he loved fishing, boating, and crabbing, and he always knew where the fish were biting.

Chuck was a lifetime member of the Masonic Lodge and the Shriners and held a special passion for their charitable work. Over the years, he drove more than fifty children and their families to the Shriners Hospital in Philadelphia for medical care, offering not only transportation but comfort and companionship.

Until his illness, Chuck was an active and devoted member of Mariner’s Bethel Global Methodist Church in Ocean View, DE. Known for his skill with tools and a generous spirit, he volunteered countless hours building and repairing churches throughout the community.

Above all, Chuck loved his family. He cherished every gathering, celebration, and milestone, and in his later years would often say with a wide smile, “I have the best family.” Chuck and Marylou were blessed with 69 years of marriage.

He is survived by his three children: Greg Lampe and his wife, Beverly, of Selbyville, DE; Jeff Lampe and his wife, Karen, of Meyersville, MD; and Jeanne Mecca and her husband, Billy, of North Haven, CT; five grandchildren, Sarah (Al), Linnea, Shayna (Brian), Christina (Ryan), and Nikki (Adam); and eight greatgrandchildren, Dylan, Sofia, Connor, Olivia, Julia, Owen, Oliver, and Josie.

The family extends their sincere gratitude to the caregivers for the exceptional care and compassion shown to Chuck throughout his illness.

A Celebration of Life will be held at noon on Monday, Nov. 17 at Mariner’s Bethel Global Methodist Church. A viewing will take place prior to the service beginning at 11:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Shriners Children’s Hospital, Mariner’s Bethel Global Methodist Church, or a charity of one’s choice.

Chuck’s legacy lives on in the faith he practiced, the family he cherished, and the kindness he showed to everyone he met.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.bishophastingsfh.com.

Patricia Schlauch

Charles Lampe

Sports & Recreation

Decatur advances to state’s 3A championship match

By Steve Green Executive Editor

(Nov. 14, 2025) A dream season for Stephen Decatur’s varsity boys soccer team continued last weekend with a thrilling overtime win to advance to the 3A Maryland Public Secondary Schools Athletic Association championship game.

The Seahawks captured their 16th win of the season last Saturday in Kent Island in dramatic fashion, scoring the winning goal with minutes left in the second overtime period to defeat Sherwood, 3-2.

Junior Cruz Henson’s goal off a goalie deflection of a shot broke the 2-2 tie for the win in a game that appeared destined to be decided by penalty kicks. Scoring earlier in the game were sophomore Johnny Crossett on a center from senior wing Elijah Isett. Later in

the game, Isett would score Decatur’s second goal with a beautiful left footed finish that bounced off the side pipe.

The No. 1 seeded Seahawks will now face No. 2 seed Centennial on Saturday at 2:30 p.m. for the 3A state title at UMBC Stadium in Baltimore.

Centennial advanced to the title game with a 3-1 win over Tuscarora in the semifinals, a 2-0 victory over Chesapeake in the quarterfinals, a 1-0 win over Howard in the third round and a 4-2 victory over Marriotts Ridge in the second round.

After a first round bye, before last Saturday’s win, Decatur’s post-season wins came against South River (2-0) in the second round, Severna Park (1-0 decided in penalty kicks) in the third round and Towson (2-1 in overtime).

Decatur last won a state title in soccer in 2002.

COLLEGE COMMITS

Several student-athletes from Stephen Decatur High School have recently confirmed their intentions to continue playing sports in colleges across the country. The students, pictured, included Brandon Nadeau, baseball, Sacred Heart University; Bailey Griffin, field hockey, East Stroudsburg University; boys lacrosse players John Fohner, St. Joseph’s University, Ashton March, St. Joseph’s University, Emmitt Mills, North Greenville University, and Trey Strickler, Anderson University; girls soccer players Sam Ruppert, GoldeyBeacom College, Luca Russo, Florida Southern University, Madeline Tapley, Arkansas State University, and Payton Wilson, Frostburg State University; boys wrestling, Peter Snyder IV, Northwestern University; and girls

lacrosse players, Jill Burton, George Mason University, Ava Konyar, Wingate University, and Lo Malinowski, Frostburg State University.

PHOTO COURTESY DELMARVA SPORTS NETWORK

Senior Elijah Isett is pictured making a run down the field in last Saturday’s state semifinal game at Kent Island.

PHOTO COURTESY DELMARVA SPORTS NETWORK Senior Brody Olsen is pictured looking for an outlet amid pressure from Sherwood defenders.

PHOTO COURTESY DELMARVA SPORTS NETWORK

Elijah Isett is congratulated by fellow Senior Colin Pennington after his game tying goal.

STATE CHAMPS

Seahawks pound Gators, 42-12, to continue season

By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer

(Nov. 14, 2025) Eight straight wins for Stephen Decatur’s Seahawks varsity football for an 8-1 record so far. On Nov. 7, the MPSSAA 3A South Region first round was played at the Lois H. Taylor Stadium in front of a packed crowd.

Reservoir High School’s Gators fell to the Stephen Decatur Seahawks 4212 moving them into the next bracket. First into the end zone was Brian Chester with 6:04 left in the quarter and Blake Wallace got the point after.

Starting the second quarter 7-0, the momentum picked up in with a quarterback carry touchdown by Johnny Hobgood and the point after picked up by Wallace.

Running back Kyle Mumford made the next touchdown with 7:12 in the quarter and the point after by Wallace (21-0). Less than three minutes later (4:38), Chester scored again for 27-0. What a quarter this was as Veron DeShields III made the touchdown and the conversion after with .25 on the clock for a scoreboard of 35-0. DeShields had a total of 64 rushing yards at that point.

At half time, the Seahawks had 232 total yards while the Gators had 34. Although the Gators had possession for 12 minutes, they only had two first downs while the Seahawks had 13. Some would think the game was over as they let the clock run during the second half. But the Gators were able to end their season with some pride.

As the third quarter was coming to an end Zach Dove scored for Stephen Decatur and Wallace got the point and the last score for the Seahawks.

See DECATUR Page 81

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Stephen Decatur’s defense swarms a Gator running back, resulting in a fumble on the play.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Stephen Decatur’s Unified Tennis team repeated this week as state champs in a tournament held at College Park. The team, which is coached by Lindsay Owens and Shannon Bone, also repeated winning the Sportsmanship Award. Unified Sports pair typical student-athletes with special needs individuals who compete together against other schools across the state. Decatur’s Unified Program featured four teams at the regionals last month with the top team advancing to represent the school at the state level.

Decatur take on Guilford Friday

Continued from Page 80

Going into quarter four with 42-0 the Gators seemed to start playing their game scoring at 7:28 left to play. They tried a conversion but failed. With the clock running at 1:07, the Gators got another touchdown and tried the conversion but did not score. The day ended with 42-12 and another feather in the caps of the Seahawks.

A happy quarterback Hobgood said after the game, “Pretty good. All

the guys played well. We practiced hard this week, and we just didn’t want it to be our last week. We had a lot of motivation for this game.”

The sentiment was shared by Coach Jake Coleman, who added, “Good, good. Anytime you win in the playoffs, it’s a good one. Kids played well. I’m very happy with all three phases, did a great job.”

The next game will be Nov. 14 at 6 p.m. at Guilford Park High School.

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Lineman Jack Bradley bring this running play from Reservoir to an abrupt end last Friday night.

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Running back Kyle Mumford, who was stopped short on this rush, scored one touchdown against Reservoir.

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Quarterback Johnny Hobgood looks for a rushing touchdown against Reservoir. .

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