Watersports dealership burns
Twenty-three fire companies answer call for assistance at Bayside Jet Drive last Thursday after the business turns into an inferno. More than 200,000 gallons of water were used to douse the flames. — Page 3
Decatur state soccer champs
It’s been 23 years since the Seahawks soccer team won the state title. Now, it has its second and in the 3A division at that. — Page 10
It’s just a penny, but raising the room tax from 5 to 6 percent means $5 million for Ocean City ... and, as part of the deal, additional wastewater treatment capacity for the county. — PAGE 12
Know this man?
If you do, there’s a $5,000 reward posted for him, for robbing an Ocean City bank last year. — PAGE 22
PHOTO COURTESY OF OPVFD
Smoke billows out of Bayside Jet Drive last Thursday, as Berlin pours water onto the fire from its ladder truck. The burning fuel and materials inside the building made the fire one of the most intense firefighters in this area have seen in some time.
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Fire ruins local business, officials say cause unknown
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Nov. 21, 2025) Firefighters from nearly two dozen fire companies responded last week to a raging inferno that incinerated a Berlin-area boat dealership owned by Worcester County Commissioner Eric Fiori. Officials said no one was hurt and the fire’s cause remains unknown.
Fiori said the Nov. 13 conflagration consumed the commercial building that housed a showroom and offices for his business, Bayside Jet Drive. About 15 boats, a storage room for parts and accessories, not to mention countless business documents all were destroyed.
This week, Fiori expressed profound gratitude, not only to the community for standing with him in the face of devastating loss, but to the firefighters from three counties who showed up to help.
“If it wasn’t for our first responders from all those jurisdictions, this catastrophic fire would have been way, way worse,” he told OC Today-Dispatch. “The way they risked their lives to jump into that fire, there’s no words. As I’m watching the last 20-plus years of my life burn, none of that matters. I just wanted them to get home to their families and not spread to their neighbors, so they don’t have the same heartache I did.”
It was 1:21 p.m. on Nov. 13 when the
Berlin Fire Company fielded the call that Bayside Jet Drive on Worcester Highway was on fire. Units arriving to the scene found flames already shooting through the roof and walls, according to Rob Korb, Chief Deputy Fire Marshal for Worcester County.
Twenty-three fire departments from Worcester and Wicomico counties, as well as Sussex County in Delaware, responded to the firefight, bringing 64 pieces of apparatus, according to Korb.
They spent eight hours at the scene, some working into the night, to contain and investigate the fire.
Drop tanks were in place so tanker trucks could unload their water supply and make runs to keep the reservoir replenished for engines. Tankers filled up by tying into hydrants at a nearby Royal Farms and SonRise Church. More than 200,000 gallons of water, mostly tapped from municipal Berlin hydrants, were spent to extinguish the inferno, Korb said.
As the gravity of the situation sunk in, Berlin Fire Company Chief Andy Gruden said he called out for all available firefighting units. His team radioed for a “tanker task force” as the incident response was upgraded to three alarms.
“In a fire of that size, you need an incredible amount of water to bring it
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The active fire at the Bayside Jet Drive business on Worcester Highway (the former Route 113) is pictured.
under contr0l, and you need it right away,” he said. “We knew with the smoke in the sky we had a well-advanced fire that was difficult to contain. The fuel load that’s in there is complex and it burns faster, hotter, and with a lot more ferocity than a standard fire will burn.”
As early crews arrived on the scene, a wall of sheer orange flame 20 feet tall could be seen overtaking the front of the blue commercial structure.
By dusk, firefighters stood watching as a hydraulic excavator began to demolish that same storefront, ripping away the charred sheet metal exterior in jagged chunks. This was necessary to make sure the fire was extinguished deep into the structure, Grunden also said.
Ultimately, crews were able to keep
the fire within the footprint of the building. No fire responders were injured and the cause of the fire remains under investigation, according to Grunden. Fiori, 48, says he’s facing the situation head-on and has vowed to rebuild.
“It’s just very difficult and I want to clean it up and start over and move on,” he said.
After years of working in the marina and watercraft industry in Ocean City, Fiori in 2002 founded his own Jet Ski rental and repair service in midtown Ocean City. That business grew into what became Bayside Jet Drive, a full-fledged boat dealership and maintenance operation.
A decade later, he opened 13,000 square feet of showroom outside Berlin, and then expanded again for more storage in 2016, according to the business’ website. While Bayside Jet Drive employs about 20 people at the Berlin location, Fiori has another showroom and sales operation in Ocean View, Delaware.
On Friday, the morning after the fire, Fiori posted a heartfelt message on Facebook, showing appreciation to all who responded, well wishers and the Ladies Auxiliary members who showed up on site to feed the first responders.
“ … your kindness in the midst of chaos reminded us what Worcester County is all about. I am especially grateful to the neighbor who stopped and prayed with me in that moment. Your compassion gave me strength when I needed it most,” he wrote. “I also want to thank the friends who checked in, supported our children, and stood by our side; the teachers who stepped in to help my wife so she could be with me; and our Bayside Jet Drive team, who handled an unbearable situation with grace and resilience. This tragedy strikes deeply for our family. My wife lost her mother to a fire, and we carry that loss with us every day. That history is why we are overwhelmingly thankful to God that no one was injured.”
Elected to the Board of County Commissioners in 2022, Fiori represents the West Ocean City area in District 3 and serves as the board’s vice president.
One of the destroyed boats is pictured in front of the building where the fire originated at Bayside Jet Drive. First responders were on the scene for more than 12 hours due to the intensity of the blaze.
Decatur soccer team wins state championship title
By Steve Green Executive Editor
(Nov. 21, 2025) Coming into the season, expectations were high for the Stephen Decatur boys varsity team since it was returning many veteran players with years of club experience in their backgrounds.
On Saturday afternoon at UMBC Stadium in Baltimore, the goal set during the hot summer practices was met – a state title in the Class 3A bracket of the Maryland Public Secondary Schools Athletic Association playoffs.
In the title game, Decatur jumped on the board in the first half when senior wing Elijah Isett centered the ball to junior striker Cruz Henson, who hammered a left-footed shot by the goalie for Centennial High School of Ellicott City.
Centennial answered shortly after, knotting the score at 1-1 heading into the break.
After halftime, it was all Decatur. Isett served another beautiful left-footed center to a sprinting Henson, who put the Seahawks up 2-1.
Senior Isaiah Rodriguez put in Decatur’s third goal after Centennial failed to clear the ball out of its end. Rodriguez fired a shot from near half field high into the top right-hand corner. Minutes later, Rodriguez converted again on a shot deflection to put Decatur up 4-1.
The win gave Decatur its second state championship in soccer but its first in the Class 3 level of the state playoffs. All Decatur sports moved from Class 2 to Class 3 this school year due to school enrollment. Therefore, Decatur’s soccer team is the first in school history to claim the honor of being Class 3 champions.
The post-season included some dramatic finishes for the team. Oddly enough, the championship game against the No. 2 seeded Centennial was the easiest game for the top-seeded Seahawks. After a first round bye, Decatur’s postseason wins came against South River (2-0) in the second round, Severna Park (1-0 decided in penalty kicks) in the third
round, Towson (2-1 in overtime) in the quarterfinals and a double overtime thriller over Sherwood, 3-2, in the semis.
Head Coach Jamie Greenwood was reflective after the win last Saturday.
“It’s been a journey. I was here in 2002 with Steve Berquist and that crew. To look up in the stands to start the game and see the ’02 team up there supporting us was just kind of one of those things I didn’t want to disappoint them and show them we have continued to build this program,” Greenwood said at the post-game press conference. “Coming out of the region that we do, it was tough and we worked all season long for this.”
The Decatur boys varsity soccer program last won the state championship in 2002 and was a state finalist in 2001. The Seahawks reached the state semifinals in 1994 and 1996. In the years since, Decatur has won a handful of Bayside Conference championships and has had more than its share of success.
The team’s roster consisted of Adrian Jasinksi Elbaz, Jonah DeVito, Nathaniel Hallman, Xander Wakefield, Gannon Eastlack, Andrew Kemp, Blake Wallace, Gavin Geiser, Elijah Isett, Brody Olsen, Collin Pennington, Isaiah Rodriguez, Johnny Crossett, Sam Krasner, Daniel Gallo, Jay Konyar, Lucas Ruppert, Micah Hill, Matthew Rodriguez, Cruz Henson, Luis Carrasco, Mason Edelmann, Aiden Buchheit, Wyatt Scrimgeour, Anthony Ziman and Jackson Hurst.
Coaches and players on Stephen Decatur’s varsity soccer team are pictured with their medals, trophies and sign after capturing the state championship. At right,
Worcester commissioners pass room tax hike
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Nov. 21, 2025) In a legislative maneuver years in the making, Worcester County officials agreed this week to increase the county’s tax on room rentals from 5% to 6% in a straight swap for more sewage capacity at Ocean City’s wastewater plant.
Officials on both sides both described the quid pro quo as a win-win: Ocean City gets to generate millions in new tax revenue, and Worcester County gets to ease the burden on its beleaguered wastewater processing facilities in the West Ocean City area.
The resolution passed Tuesday by the county commissioners was written more like a contract than a standard government edict: it imposes a 1% room tax increase, but only if Ocean City amended an existing intergovern-
mental agreement to increase the county’s allotted sewer capacity by 170,000 gallons.
“I’m not sure it needed to be in there, but if that made the commissioners feel more comfortable, I was fine with that,” Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan said of the wording. “The goal was to get everybody on the same page and increase the room tax and do it in a timely manner.”
Meehan pushed for the deal to be done at the end of 2025 to please the resort’s hospitality industry, which wanted the ability to lock in its 2026 room rates by Jan. 1.
Per an agreement struck in 1994, the county already reserves 1 million gallons of space at Ocean City’s sewer plant, which can process up to12 million gallons a day.
The resolution mentions by name
two county sewer facilities outside West Ocean City, The Landings and Assateague Point. The former plant has been deactivated for effluent disposal issues, and the latter needs expensive state-mandated upgrades.
While adding capacity will help both facilities, much of the county’s aging wastewater treatment operation – which involves 11 independent sewer systems – is still in bad shape, officials say.
County leaders have warned they may need to invest $30 to $40 million in systemic upgrades and have already raised sewer rates this year to help cover operational and maintenance costs.
The deal also allows untreated county effluent to be used as spray irrigation at nearby Eagle’s Landing golf course, an Ocean City municipal prop-
erty. On their end, members of the Ocean City Council on Monday agreed to the sewerage expansion and will have to finalize the deal in a second vote at their Dec. 1 meeting. However, not all the commissioners had been privy to this arrangement.
Commissioner Joe Mitrecic (District 7, Ocean City) said he wasn’t told ahead of the vote that the tax increase resolution was amended to be contingent on the Ocean City sewer deal. He still voted “yes” because it was important to the resort and his constituents.
“I thought the resolution was changed on the say-so of a couple commissioners – it wasn’t voted on by us,” Mitrecic said in closing comments at Tuesday’s meeting. “To tie the Town of Ocean City’s sewer ‘gift,’ I’ll call it, to this resolution was wrong. We should trust in Ocean City to do the right thing – they offered it. I think it made us look bad, to be honest with you.”
When it takes effect Jan. 1, the amended room tax affects any Worcester County venue that charges a lodging fee, including hotels and motels, campgrounds and RVs, or online vacation rentals like Airbnb.
A bigger slice of tourism spending will be churned into much-anticipated new revenue for the county and its municipalities. Estimates project $22,000 in new room tax revenue for Berlin, $38,000 more for Pocomoke City, and $360,000 more for the county itself.
But it’s the Town of Ocean City, with its 10,000 hotel rooms and 5,000 more rental properties, that stands to benefit the most.
The resort could end up pocketing an estimated $5 million in new revenue, based on fiscal 2025 data. As a matter of policy, Ocean City already earmarks 40% of room tax revenue for tourism and hospitality marketing and rolls the remaining 60% into the general fund.
More money is needed, resort leaders say, to absorb new public safety expenses, including a projected $13 million increase in police salaries resulting from a new police union contract.
Ocean City’s elected officials and tourism advocates lobbied behind the scenes for three years just to get the possibility of a room tax increase off the ground.
It started at the state level, where the General Assembly in 2024 passed its own law granting Worcester County permission to raise its ceiling on the room tax from 5% to 6%.
Asking a group of mostly Democratic lawmakers to agree to a tax hike – one not only affecting their vacationing constituents, but pitched by a Republican, no less – was a tough sell that cost a lot of political capital, according to Del. Wayne Hartman (R-
County supports increase in exchange for sewer capacity
38C), who sponsored the bill on behalf of Worcester County.
Next, the county commissioners had to take twofold action at Tuesday’s meeting: first, they approved a new law to authorize the 1% tax increase – saying, effectively, we give ourselves permission to raise this tax, if we choose to. That took effect immediately as emergency legislation.
Then, the commissioners had to approve a separate resolution enacting the change – and, under stipulations laid out by the General Assembly, that vote had to be unanimous.
It was. When board President Ted Elder called for the final vote, all seven commissioners clearly called out “aye!” with a collective volume not typically heard on the dais. Mayor Meehan, seated in the gallery, nodded vigorously.
Two commissioners had been on the fence with their deciding votes: Chip Bertino and Jim Bunting. If either had voted no, the deal would have fallen through.
Bunting (District 6, Bishopville) said he changed his mind to vote yes after sitting down with county depart-
ment heads, who convinced him that “maybe I was being a little too harsh.”
“I’m not always right,” he told OC Today-Dispatch, “and maybe I took too hard of a stance. I still didn’t like it, but at the same time, it was going to benefit the people, residents of Worcester County, or even your municipalities with their sewer plants and such.”
Bertino (District 5, Ocean Pines) initially had pushed for Ocean City to fork over another 1 million gallons of sewer capacity instead of just 170,000. Meehan in public statements equated that request to being “held hostage.”
“You should never be in a hurry to make a mistake,” Bertino told OC Today-Dispatch. “I took the time to do the due diligence that was necessary for me to vote yes. I’m very pleased with the outcome and I hope that everybody else is.
“Regardless of what some naysayers and radio personalities and the media thought,” he added, “there was a lot going on behind the scenes that they were not privy to – nor should they be privy to. But I’m glad of the outcome today.”
BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Members of the Worcester County Commissioners are pictured listening to Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan testify during this week’s public hearing in favor of the proposed room tax increase.
Ocean City agrees to boost Worcester’s sewer allotment
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Nov. 21, 2025) Ocean City officials took the first step this week in allowing Worcester County to use additional capacity at the city’s wastewater plant, despite concerns from the council president that the county was holding the resort “hostage” in a quid pro quo deal linked to room tax.
In a 5-1 vote, with Council President Matt James opposed and Councilman Jake Mitrecic absent, the Ocean City Council on Monday passed the first reading of an ordinance to amend the city’s sewerage agreement with Worcester County and increase its allocated capacity to West Ocean City by 170,000 gallons per day.
While seeing the benefit an increase would bring to the Assateague Point and Landings communities, which are served by county sewer districts and are experiencing wastewater treatment issues, James said he had concerns that the passage of the ordinance had been tied to an emergency resolution at the county level related to the room tax rate.
“The two shouldn't be tied together, in my opinion …,” he said. “I’ll be very blunt. It feels like the county is holding us hostage.”
According to the emergency resolution, which was presented at Tuesday’s
meeting of the Worcester County Commissioners, the city’s request to increase the maximum room tax rate from 5% to 6% included some stipulations, one of which being that the Ocean City Council increase its allocated sewer capacity to the county’s West Ocean City Sanitary Service Area by 170,000 gallons per day for untreated effluent from Assateague Point and the Landings.
James took issue with the fact that the two legislative actions were linked.
“If we want the room tax increase, it feels like you're holding this out there, like, ‘hey, give us your sewer, and we’ll vote for the room tax,’” he said, “and I don't think that's fair.”
Regarding the sewer amendment, the Worcester County Commissioners in September directed staff to meet with the City Council and ask to purchase enough treatment capacity at the resort’s midtown treatment plant to handle flow from two wastewater service areas in the West Ocean City area – Assateague Point and the Landings.
At Assateague Point, a mostly seasonal community, the burden of large capital expenses has been placed on fewer ratepayers, causing the county government to get involved and spread costs over several years, according to Worcester County Chief Administrative Officer We-
Increase tied to room tax rate
ston Young. At the Landings, Young said disposal issues have crippled the system.
However, the county’s request will require an amendment to the Sewerage Treatment Facilities Transfer Agreement, which was enacted in 1994, when the city took ownership of the Ocean City wastewater system from Worcester County.
That agreement set aside 1 million gallons per day – or about a twelfth of the city’s capacity at the time – to be transmitted from West Ocean City to the city’s treatment plant through an existing force main that runs underneath the Isle of Wight Bay. Now, officials are proposing to amend that agreement and increase West Ocean City’s capacity by 170,000 gallons per day – 100,000 gallons to serve the Landings and 70,000 gallons to serve Assateague Point. The county will be expected to pay Ocean City $780,386 for the increase.
In addition to his concerns about the sewer issue being tied to room tax, James also took issue with the county’s emergency resolution, which he said failed to clearly identify what the additional capacity would service. He argued there was nothing to stop Worcester County from expanding the service area and allocating the capacity to other properties.
“The county could change the district locations, but our ordinance specifically restricts what can be sent to Ocean City to those current areas,” City Manager Terry McGean replied. “So even if they
expanded them, our ordinance and agreement that we are going to amend would prohibit those properties from going into Ocean City.”
However, both McGean and Young said both the city and county attorneys would work together to address James’ concern.
“In my mind it freezes the Landing service area, it freezes Assateague Point, because they are no longer treating themselves,” Young said. “With this agreement, it would go directly to the West Ocean City, Ocean City network, so they lack any other capacity on paper at that point.”
Referencing the connection between sewer capacity and room tax, Mayor Rick Meehan said it was never the intention to tie one issue to the other. However, he acknowledged there were “political reasons” for why the county resolution was written in such a way.
“So I agree with the council president, but I also think it’s important that both of these issues move forward,” he said. “And if they have to be tied together, so be it.”
On Tuesday, less than 24 hours after the council passed the sewer amendment on first reading, the Worcester County Commissioners voted unanimously on an emergency resolution to increase the maximum room tax rate from 5% to 6%.
The increase is estimated to bring in $5 million in additional room tax revenue for Ocean City.
County denies sheriff’s IA request
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Nov. 21, 2025) Who watches the watchmen? In Worcester County, it won’t be anybody – at least, not until the next budget cycle.
Sheriff Matt Crisafulli’s request to fund a new internal affairs investigator position was denied this week by the Worcester County Commissioners, who balked not just at the six-figure cost, but that his asking for it came outside the annual springtime budget window.
A full-time internal affairs supervisor would review uses of force, complaints, employee misconduct, and policy violations, Crisafulli told the County Commissioners at Tuesday’s meeting.
And, while not committing to a timetable, he implied it could take
months to advertise, recruit, and hire for the job – even longer if they wait until 2026.
Reporting directly to him, the sheriff said an internal affairs investigator would need specialized training in administrative investigations, evidence documentation, and disciplinary procedures. They could identify patterns of misconduct, recommend corrective actions, and assist in policy development and training improvements, he added.
Crisafulli also stressed the position is a “critical necessity” to better comply with a suite of police reform laws enacted by state lawmakers in 2022, which demand more robust internal documentation and accountability –responsibilities his more senior deputies have absorbed over the last three years, pulling them away from
their core duties.
“This would enhance public trust by demonstrating our office’s commitment to integrity, professionalism, and transparency. It also would protect our personnel rights by providing fair and consistent internal investigations that safeguard both our office and our employees,” he said.
The commissioners didn’t waste time poking holes in the sheriff’s pitch.
Commissioner Joe Mitrecic (District 7, Ocean City) suggested a deputy hired for the role could split their time between multiple local law enforcement agencies. “It just seems like we could share with Ocean City,” he said.
The sheriff protested. “I think for organizations to share these investigators is too cumbersome. An agency of our size … ”
“ … which grows every year,” Mitrecic interrupted.
“Well, so do the services that our county expects,” Crisafulli shot back.
Officials also didn’t love the price: an estimated $167,538 for salary, benefits, and retirement costs. The sheriff later clarified the salary alone would be $83,000 – an amount intended to target qualified, mid-to-late career applicants.
“This is not a little bit of money we’re talking about. This is a lot,” said Commissioner Diana Purnell (District 2, Central). “We need to know what every department is going to need. But this, you want us to add this in now? I start questioning asking to bring things like this to us now, before we start the budget process. I’m not comfortable with this.”
Commissioner Chip Bertino (District 5, Ocean Pines) didn’t disagree that the internal affairs position is needed but said Crisafulli should bring it back at budget time in spring 2026. “These mid-cycle requests make it very difficult when we get into the budget cycle in the next few months,” he told the sheriff.
Mitrecic’s motion to approve the funding, seconded by Commissioner Caryn Abbott, failed in a 3-4 vote. Commissioner Eric Fiori also voted yes. Purnell, Bertino, Commission President Ted Elder and Commissioner Jim Bunting opposed.
After the meeting, a frustrated Crisafulli emphasized that his agency is already severely shorthanded and filling the internal affairs job would take a lot off his supervisors’ plates.
“They need to be focused on answering questions from deputies, being prepared to respond to emergency calls – you know, that’s what commanders do,” he told OC TodayDispatch. “Managing law enforcement resources, having them do the duties of an IA investigator, we're just finding that that's not a collateral duty, that's a standalone duty that has to be undertaken.”
BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH County Sheriff Matt Crisafulli, pictured before the commissioners on Tuesday, was denied a mid-year budget request to hire an internal affairs investigator.
Officials table deputy pay bump discussion
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Nov. 21, 2025) Worcester County officials this week iced a request by the Sheriff Matt Crisafulli to increase salaries to lure recruits from other police agencies to his office.
Citing challenges in recruitment and retention, Crisafulli on Tuesday asked the county commissioners to approve a 5% bump in deputies’ pay scale, for the entry level rank of deputy sheriff up to sergeant. The commissioners voted unanimously to table the conversation until the next board meeting on Dec. 2.
According to wage data provided by the county, based on years of experience, sheriff’s deputies are paid hourly at a rate of $31.07 to $57.81 and are overtime eligible. Lieutenants and captains are salaried, as are the sheriff and
his chief deputy, and don’t get overtime.
Pay grades increase sequentially by 5%. If approved, the increase would bump a deputy’s starting annualized pay (based on 2,080 hours worked) from $63,132 to $66,210, or $31.83 hourly.
However, the sheriff’s office is specifically asking for a salary scale increase to help them poach veterans of other law enforcement agencies, who would then expect a competitive salary based on years of experience.
Crisafulli wants to offer people who make a lateral move to his office a 2.5% pay increase for each year of service –a change that would mean existing deputies on his roster would get a pay bump, too, in the name of fairness. For now, lateral hires are capped at the same salary offered to a deputy with
AT DOCK & LIFT
five years’ experience; Crisafulli wants that cap lifted to nine.
Salaries available to lateral hires haven’t proven competitive enough for prospects to jump ship to Worcester County. This year, “a number of highly qualified applicants” have walked away over salary, according to a Nov. 3 internal memo from the sheriff’s office to county administration.
A source in the sheriff’s office told OC Today-Dispatch that they lost two prospective hires to the Ocean City Police Department because OCPD is hiring laterals at a Step 9 pay grade. Ocean City also offers lateral hires a bonus of $5,000 to $15,000; Worcester doesn’t.
Overall, the pay bump proposal would cost Worcester County an estimated $354,281, including salaries, benefits, and steps for current deputies, according to the sheriff’s office.
Replied the sheriff: “I can give you a number now if you’re interested.”
Without responding to that, Abbott then asked if Crisafulli had run his numbers by county finance and human resources officials. “I just want to make sure we’re getting accurate information as best as possible. I’m not saying it’s not. Did you come up with all the figures on your own?” she said.
Crisafulli said his team had, in fact, collaborated already with county staffers on the figures.
After the meeting, Crisafulli expressed surprise and disappointment that his proposal was tabled but looks forward to continuing the conversation with county leaders “in good faith.”
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But before Sheriff Crisafulli could say a word as he approached the lectern at Tuesday’s meeting, Commissioner Caryn Abbott asked to postpone the request outright, saying she needed more information.
“What myself would like is more of a breakdown on the laterals and the current officers that work for Worcester County, what the cost would be, detailed for us at the next meeting,” said Abbott (District 1, Southern).
“I remain committed to working collaboratively with our county leadership,” he told OC Today-Dispatch. “My focus always has been, and will continue to be, ensuring that our deputies have the support, resources, and professional structure they need to serve Worcester County at the highest level – and that includes equitable compensation.”
Earlier this year, the commissioners approved a fiscal 2026 budget allocation for the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office that included pay grade increases for active deputies and an entry-level pay increase from $55,037 to $62,132.
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Fire volunteers to receive tax credit
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Nov. 21, 2025) Ocean City officials this week adopted a property tax credit for active volunteer firefighters.
In a majority vote, the Ocean City Council on Monday agreed to grant a property tax credit of up to $2,500 for active members of the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company who live in town. The adoption comes more than a month after officials ratified a new memorandum of understanding, which, among other things, requires the city to provide active-duty volunteers with the incentive.
“It’s a great retention and recruitment tool for me and also for the volunteer fire company,” Fire Chief James Jester told council members this week.
In October, the council agreed to
Open 4pm Friday & Saturday
move forward with a property tax credit, up to $2,500, for active volunteer firefighters who live in town.
However, the tax credit will come with several stipulations, as it applies to volunteers who are active members of the fire company; volunteers listed as the owner of their property; volunteers whose primary residence is within town limits and who have lived at the property for a minimum of one year; volunteers who receive the Maryland Homestead Property Tax Credit on the property; and property that does not have a rental license.
With no discussion, the City Council this week voted 5-0, with Councilman Jake Mitrecic absent and Councilman Will Savage – the fire company’s assistant fire chief – abstaining, to adopt the tax credit on second reading. During public comments
at the end of Monday’s meeting, Jester thanked city officials for supporting volunteers who reside in town.
“I've already got them in the door, and I need to keep them there,” he said of the fire company’s recruitment and retention efforts. “And that is what this is going to allow me to do.”
City Solicitor Heather Stansbury has stated that the definition of an active member was defined in the fire company’s bylaws, and that a minimum definition appears in both the ordinance and the memorandum of understanding ratified by the City Council last month.
It should be noted that officials have also agreed to create an annual bonus for city employees who own a primary residence in town, as state law only allows a tax credit for public safety employees.
Police offer cash reward in unsolved bank robbery case
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Nov. 21, 2025) The Ocean City Police Department will offer up to $5,000 for any information that leads police to the perpetrator of a bank robbery that occurred last year.
Despite a year-long investigation, the Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) has been unable to identify and appre-
hend the suspect in an armed robbery that occurred at the Truist Bank on 47th Street last October. Now, the Ocean City Council has approved a reward for tips leading to their arrest.
“We had a police commission meeting last Monday, and we reviewed this matter,” Council Secretary Tony DeLuca, commission chair, said during Monday’s regular meeting. “The police commission supported the $5,000 reward for tips leading to the convection. So there's a resolution tonight to entertain that.”
On Oct. 25, 2024, just after 9 a.m., Ocean City police were called to the scene of a robbery that had occurred at Truist Bank on 47th Street. According to the police department, the suspect had entered the bank and passed a handwritten note to the teller demanding money. After taking an undisclosed amount of money, the suspect then left the scene on foot and was last observed heading north on Coastal Highway.
In the days and weeks following the incident, photos of the suspect and requests for the public’s assistance were circulated on the police department’s Facebook page. However, despite more than a year of investigating, the department has yet to identify the person responsible.
During Monday’s meeting, the City Council voted 6-0, with Councilman Jake Mitrecic absent, to offer a reward of
up to $5,000 for their capture and conviction. While there have been several unsolved bank robberies within the city over the years, this will be the first time since 2008 that a reward has been offered, said OCPD Deputy Communications Manager Ashley Miller.
The police department continues to seek the public’s assistance in identifying the bank robber. The suspect is described as a white male, late 50s to early 60s, approximately 5 feet, 11 inches with an av-
erage build. During the robbery, he was wearing a hooded sweatshirt, jeans, gloves, glasses, and a medical-style mask. OCPD is asking anyone who recognizes the suspect or who may have information, no matter how small it may seem, to contact Detective Amy Gutowski at agutowski@oceancitymd.gov or 410-5205314. Anonymous tips may be submitted by calling 410-520-5136 or online through the OCPD Crime Tips portal. Please reference Case Number 2024-004794.
IMAGE COURTESY OCPD
A reward is now being offered in the cold case of a Truist Bank branch robbery in Ocean City on Oct. 25, 2024. The suspect is pictured in security footage.
IMAGE COURTESY OCPD
Police welcome anonymous tips, if necessary, and can be made by calling 410-520-5136 or online through a portal.
Gov. names Farlow county’s newest district court judge
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Nov. 21, 2025) One longtime Worcester County attorney is making a move from the prosecutor’s table to the judge’s bench.
Gov. Wes Moore on Wednesday announced his appointment of Michael William Farlow as the county’s newest district court judge. In a statement, Moore called him “a dedicated public servant” whose career as a prosecutor and in private practices prepared him for a judgeship.
“His commitment to the people of Worcester County, both in the courtroom and through his extensive community service, is a testament to the integrity and fairness he will bring to the district court,” Moore said. We are proud to see him serve in this new role.”
prosecutor under State’s Attorney Joel Todd from 2003 to 2010. Then, in 2014, he ran for State’s Attorney but lost to the incumbent Beau Oglesby – who’s now a Worcester County judge himself, in the circuit court since 2018. Prior to rejoining the prosecutor’s office full time, Farlow was a solo practitioner in Ocean Pines with a practice focused on major traffic offenses, criminal law, asset forfeiture law, and estate planning.
Farlow, 50, will don a judge’s robe in the same Snow Hill district courthouse where he’s been an Assistant States Attorney since 2019. He expects to be sworn in next month.
“I am humbled by the opportunity to serve and I want to thank Governor Moore for appointing me to the bench,” Farlow said in a statement.
Farlow worked part-time as a
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He’s a 1998 graduate of Salisbury University, where he later taught a political science course as an adjunct lecturer. He earned his law degree in 2001 from Widener University in Wilmington.
Worcester County State’s Attorney Kris Heiser said she and her entire office are thrilled to see Farlow elevated to the bench.
“We know from working with him every day that Mike exercises excellent judgment and treats everyone with respect, and he will bring an even temperament to the bench,” she said. “While we will certainly miss him as a colleague, we are grateful that he has chosen to continue his career of service in this new role and we wish him all the best.”
Notably, at age 19, Farlow won a seat on the town commission in his hometown of Pittsville, making him Maryland’s youngest elected official at the time.
He’s also dedicated himself to the fire service, as a member of both the Snow Hill and Pittsville volunteer fire departments. The Maryland State Firemen’s Association inducted him into its Hall of Fame in 2014.
This is Gov. Moore’s second appointment of a Worcester County judge this year. In September, Moore named local attorney Kristina Watkowski to the Circuit Court bench, replacing the retired Peggy Kent.
Maryland’s governor hasn’t seated a district court judge on the Eastern Shore since 2022. Gov. Larry Hogan’s appointment of Cathi Coates made her the first woman named to the district court bench in Worcester County.
Farlow’s appointment fills a vacancy created when District Court Judge Gerald Purnell stepped down last summer after an 18-year judicial career. Purnell was already slated to retire later in 2024 when he was accused of misconduct in office; he settled the matter by paying a fine and accepting a guilty verdict.
Michael William Farlow
Ice Ice event to start Berlin holiday season
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Nov. 21, 2025) With the holidays approaching, the Town of Berlin is at it again, planning to spread cheer with a series of events designed to appeal to families.
Ice Ice Berlin is one of them. Planned for Friday, Nov. 28, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., Ice Ice Berlin allows residents and visitors to stroll around the historic downtown and admire 45 showcased ice sculptures.
According to Ivy Wells, the town’s economic and community development director, the carvings are brought in from Ice Concepts, an ice supplier in Pennsylvania.
The company is loaded with accomplished sculptors and artists whose mission is to foster “artistic expression through flawlessly executed
displays in ice for the event industry,” its website reads.
“They’re award-winning and incredibly talented,” Wells said.
She added that while most of the ice sculptures depict holiday-themed characters, icons, and imagery, a few “fun surprises" were thrown into the mix, including a skiing rooster, Darth Vader, and even Bigfoot.
Downtown businesses will be open late during Ice Ice Berlin for residents and guests to do some Christmas and Hanukkah shopping. Additionally, the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum will be selling hot chocolate, Santa will make an appearance, and Ocean City Pipes and Drums are slated to perform.
Wells said Ice Ice Berlin began during COVID-19 as a way for people to gather downtown for a festive occasion while still being able to spread out and meet
social distancing regulations. Despite the end of the pandemic, the event has endured, becoming a tradition that citizens and guests look forward to each season.
The town’s Christmas tree will also be lit during Ice Ice Berlin at 6 p.m. The tree was taken from a farm in Western Maryland and selected by the municipality's mayor, Zack Tyndall, Wells said.
This year, the Christmas tree will have an Eastern Shore twist: it will be adorned by oyster shells painted by Berlin students, leaning into neighborhood engagement efforts, and serving as a nod to the community’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and coastal bays.
The community development director maintained that “as many [oysters] as we can fit” will line the tree.
“Once we start hanging them, we’ll see just how many make it onto the branches. For those that don't fit, we will display them throughout town,” Wells said.
Also, to get folks in the holiday spirit, the town will offer free carriage rides beginning after Thanksgiving. The rides will be available on Small Business Saturday, or Saturday, Nov. 29, as well as every weekend in December leading up to Christmas from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. No carriage rides will be held on Saturday, Dec. 13.
The rides are funded by the Town of Berlin and made possible by the Wicomico County business, R and B Ranch Carriage Service. The festive offerings are free for anyone to take a horse-drawn drive around town.
“[The carriage rides] bring a little bit of holiday magic to town,” Wells said. “As an Arts and Entertainment District, we really value the kind of joy and creativity experiences like this bring to the community. Families don’t have to think about the cost; they can just enjoy the event together.”
The Town of Berlin is also bringing back its Kringle Kottage. The structure is donated by the owners of the Mariner's Country Down. At the site, Santa will be stationed to welcome children and their families, including during Ice Ice Berlin. Kringle Kottage will also be open every Saturday and Sunday until Christmas from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
A grant from the Maryland State Arts Council funds the Santa appearances.
FILE PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
One of the ice sculptures on display at last year’s Ice Ice Berlin event is pictured.
grants for school programs
(Nov. 21, 2025) Schools in Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester counties received $149,826 in grant funding through the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore’s 2025 Education Grants Program. Funding was distributed to 28 schools across 38 school-based programs. This year, the Foundation received an exceptional number of grant requests reflecting diverse educational needs, from advancing STEM and environmental initiatives, to expanding literacy programs, social-emotional wellness, creative arts, and inclusive learning opportunities for students of all abilities.
“Students are our future. By investing in future generations now, we are building a vibrant region for tomor-
row.,” says Community Foundation President Erica Joseph. ”Through these projects, our local teachers are creating unique opportunities in inspiring ways that provide students with the mental, physical, and academic building blocks they need for success.”
Education Grants are made annually through a competitive process to public and private grade schools on the Lower Eastern Shore of Maryland. Grants are made to schools that have developed innovative programs to enhance education and improve the social, emotional, and physical wellbeing of their students and communities. Educators and school districts were honored at an evening reception on November 13, 2025, at the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center in Salisbury, Md.
The Community Foundation honored Salisbury Middle School with the Mary Gay Calcott Award of Excellence and an additional $1,000 grant from the Foundation’s Mary Gay Calcott Memorial Fund, for their innovative Math Book Club, which provides STEM students an opportunity to explore math through engaging literature and guided discussions. The award is named for the late Mary Gay Calcott, a professor of English at Salisbury University
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Educators from Worcester County Public Schools are pictured after their schools received grants through the CFES education program.
Individual initiatives supported
whose life embodied her ideals of teaching students to think, to express themselves with clarity and to care about the world they live in.
The following Worcester County schools received Education Award Grants for the 2025/2026 school year:
Berlin Intermediate School will enhance the school’s House program by producing incentive items designed and made by students.
Berlin Intermediate School will integrate drones and Sphero robots into the 5th and 6th grade computer science and technology curriculum.
Ocean City Elementary will boost the library’s nonfiction and graphic novel collection and incorporate functional display systems.
Ocean City Elementary will purchase a kiln for the school’s Art program.
Pocomoke Elementary School will develop a Makerspace Program, designed to provide hands-on creative learning experiences.
Pocomoke Elementary School will improve student literacy by implementing the Orton-Gillingham program, a highly individualized, structured approach to teaching literacy.
Pocomoke High School will support the school’s ‘Tribes’ system, an incentive program to create a positive school climate.
Pocomoke Middle School will host math-focused parent engagement activities.
Showell Elementary School will host a Family Math Night to engage families and build connections that support math learning.
Snow Hill Elementary School will stock library stations with unique, screen-free learning materials to increase student engagement.
Snow Hill Elementary School will create a sensory hallway to assist PreK students with sensory regulation and social-emotional development.
Snow Hill High School will purchase cameras and audio equipment to be used in yearbook, communication arts, and other classes.
Snow Hill High School will enhance the school’s positive behavior program and implement a schoolwide mentoring program.
Snow Hill Middle School will support the Green Advocates After-School Academy which provides students with a creative, environmentally focused learning community centered on science, gardening, renewable energy, and more.
Stephen Decatur High School will integrate Climate Action and Solar Energy Kits to provide students with hands-on opportunities in environmental and computer science.
Worcester Technical High School will deepen students’ understanding of coding by incorporating drones into computer science.
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(Nov. 21, 2025) The Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore honored four award recipients and celebrated annual grant-making efforts at its Annual Meeting and Report to the Community on November 7th. The Foundation announced a total of $8.6 million in grants made in fiscal year 2025, including more than $858,000 in scholarships to local students.
“Today we celebrate more than $8.6 million in grants and charitable distributions made this year, and over $123 million invested in our community since our founding in 1984,” said CFES President Erica Joseph. “As the philanthropic leader of the Lower Eastern Shore, we know our work is made possible because of generous donors, dedicated volunteers, and partners who
The Nonprofit Award of Excellence honoring Richard A. Henson was awarded to Beach to Bay Heritage Area Executive Director Lisa Challenger, left, and Program Specialist Andre Nieto Jaime, right.
believe in building a stronger, more connected community.”
The Mary Gladys Jones Volunteer of the Year Award was awarded to Mr. Larry McCauley, honoring his longstanding commitment to volunteerism and service throughout the community. Known for his “servant’s heart,” McCauley has devoted countless hours to organizations such as Hands and Hearts Ending Homelessness, HOPE, TidalHealth, and Wicomico Presbyterian Church — often quietly stepping in wherever help is needed. In recognition of his dedication, McCauley will receive a $1,000 gift to designate to the nonprofit of his choice.
The Nonprofit Award of Excellence honoring Richard A. Henson was awarded to Beach to Bay Heritage Area, recognizing its leadership, innovation, and lasting contribution to our region. By promoting, preserving, and protecting the cultural heritage, historical, and natural assets of Maryland’s Eastern Shore, the organization continues to strengthen community identity. In honor of its dedication to the Lower Shore, Beach to Bay Heritage Area, Inc. will receive $5,000 to support its mission.
The Frank H. Morris Humanitarian Award was awarded to Allen Brown, honoring his lifelong commitment to service and the compassion and integrity he has shared across the community. A retired educator, he has dedicated decades to organizations including the Board of Education, Salvation Army, United Way, Coastal Hospice, Chesapeake Housing Mission, Salisbury Urban Ministries, and his beloved Salisbury Rotary Club, always offering his time, energy, and heartfelt encouragement. Known to many local students as the “Dictionary Man” for his longtime work distributing dictionaries to third graders, his kindness and enthusiasm have inspired generations. In recognition of his dedication, he will receive $2,500 to designate to the charity of his choice.
The Chairman’s Award was presented to Dan O’Connell recognizing his steadfast leadership and unwavering support to the Community Foundation. Dan consistently steps up in visible and behind-the-scenes ways—
serving as Investment Committee Chair, assisting staff, and ensuring daily operations run smoothly.
SUBMITTED PHOTOS/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Other awards presented during the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore’s Annual meeting and Report to the Community were the Frank H. Morris Humanitarian Award to Allen Brown Sr., top left, center, presented by Susan Purnell, right, with CFES Chair Velda Henry. Above middle, the Chairman’s Award was presented to Dan O’Connell, right, by CFES Chair Velda Henry for his dedicated service to the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore. Above right, the Mary Gladys Jones Volunteer of the Year Award was awarded to Larry McCauley.
Commission supports pocket park concept
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Nov. 21, 2025) A proposal to transform a former bank drivethrough lot on Bay Street into a landscaped public pocket park earned strong support and final approval from the Berlin Historic District Commission earlier this month.
Landscape architect Travis Wierengo, representing property owner Robbie Rosenblit, presented a design intended to convert the space at 2 Bay Street into a multi-use outdoor gathering area incorporating permeable pavers, raised planters, artificial turf, and a water feature. The goal, he said, is to soften up the existing asphalt area while providing an attractive, year-round community amenity.
“This would be a continuation of
what we discussed earlier this fall. Opening it up into a public park so it could be used for multiple uses throughout the year,” Wierengo explained at the commission’s Nov. 5 meeting.
Design features will include permeable paver walkways to enhance stormwater management, raised planters that serve as stormwater catchments and safety barriers, artificial turf installed over some of the existing asphalt to maintain a green appearance and prevent mud, a new and improved arbor, a water feature, and landscape lighting. Wierengo maintained that the park could have seasonal programming potential.
“You guys have done a great job on programming throughout the year, so that this isn’t just a summertime park,” he said at a September com-
mission meeting, where the idea was initially presented.
“It really could be a gathering space multiple times a year, especially in the fall when you guys have holiday events, and in the springtime. We’re using this as a blank canvas to set the framework for a space that can be used for small gatherings, as well as for people just walking by who would like to take a phone call. And then you could use this framework to sort of stage it for different things, like the Fiddler’s Convention, Christmas, different events.”
Furthermore, planters would stand 18 to 24 inches high, helping shield children from traffic, Wierengo said.
“The idea is to go ahead and use those as stormwater runoffs catchments, raised beds, and then we could also use those, for lack of better terms, containment of kids so that they’re not running out into
the street,” the landscape architect said.
Commission members praised the park’s quality, material selection, and compatibility with Berlin’s historic character.
“I like the classic design of the arbor,” commission member Laura Stearns said. “I’m glad you went that way because I’m looking at what you’re going to see as you’re driving through town, and I think that classic arbor helps make it fit in with the town, the historic look … It's such a nice thing that you’re doing for the town.”
Commissioner Mary Moore emphasized the value of the water feature.
“It’s such a nice thing, the landscaping when you have not only the visuals, but also the audio. You’re hearing the water, and seeing it, it softens everything,” she said.
Wierengo added that the waterfall will also drown out any noise from possible congestion in Berlin.
“It mitigates if there’s any street traffic,” he said. “It’s kind of like the one reprieve that you have downtown next to what you have going on at the hotel.”
The water feature could run continually, or timers available could allow operators to turn it off and on at specific points. Any landscape lighting may also be dimmed, which could co-occur with the shutdown of the waterfall.
When the commission first reviewed the pocket park concept in September, Rosenblit announced that the intention of the creation was to dedicate it to his wife, which remained the plan as of the Nov. 5 meeting.
The commission unanimously approved the enhanced outdoor space.
“It's very well designed and it's fantastic that the public can enjoy that space,” said member John Holloway.
Inlet dredging work announced
(Nov. 21, 2025) With the arrival of the dredge Murden expected on Nov. 20, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Baltimore District plans to remove about 5,000 cubic yards of dredged spoils from the Ocean City Inlet.
Officials said the Murden will work in “Priority Area No. 1” – the entrance to the Sinepuxent Channel –from Nov. 20 through Nov. 25. The goal is to finish clearing the entrance to West Ocean City Harbor, a project that began earlier this year.
“We are proud to continue oversight of safe and reliable navigation in the Ocean City region with a new round of dredging operations within the inlet,” Col. Francis Pera, the Baltimore District commander, said in a statement.
“Ensuring local waterways remain accessible to our U.S. Coast Guard partners as well as commercial and recreational users is critical
both
Ocean Pines organizes holiday campaigns
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Nov. 20, 2025) Ocean Pines organizations are rallying the community through multiple Angel Tree initiatives to help local families in need this Christmas season.
The Ocean Pines Association this week announced the start of its “Angel Tree” program, located in the neighborhood’s community center lobby at White Horse Park. The tree is decorated with angel ornaments, each containing a list of requested items for a local family in need identified through the Berlin Crisis Center.
Ocean Pines residents are invited to select an ornament, purchase the listed item or items, and return it to the community center lobby, wrapped, by Monday, Dec. 15. Requested items, for instance, may in-
clude necessities such as hand and bath towels, and more fun presents, like crafts and games, for a single mother and her three teenagers, an OPA press release said.
Michelle Lane-Ross, the project’s coordinator, said that once details from the Berlin Crisis Center are given to the community, she attaches the information to the tree and collaborates with the Ocean Pines marketing and public relations team to get the word out. The adopted family on this year’s tree includes a mother and three teenage children. If anyone has any questions, Lane-Ross can be reached at mross@oceanpines.org.
In addition to the tree, OPA Senior Director of Administration Linda Martin works with the Berlin Crisis Center to provide meals to around 10 local families in need. One of these offerings will be
given to the community’s selected family.
Lane-Ross added that efforts like these are especially vital during the Christmas season when economic gaps can become particularly apparent.
“It is a joyous time of year with all the holiday traditions, but many people struggle, and we want to do our part to make this time easier for one local family,” she said. “We are so happy to have this opportunity for employees and the community to come together to help those less fortunate in the area.”
In addition to OPA, the Ocean Pines Aquatics Department has once again set up its annual Angel Tree. The aquatics team’s program was established in 2014. The effort is coordinated with Worcester County GOLD, a nonprofit that provides emergency financial assistance in this area. Worcester GOLD identified children and families facing
economic hardship this holiday season to be included on the tree.
The aquatic department’s tree is located in the Sports Core Pool lobby. Similar to the community center tree, participants may choose an angel ornament and shop for the corresponding gifts. The presents are to be returned to the Sports Core Pool by Dec. 8. The announcement notes that they may be wrapped or unwrapped, but the selected angel tag must be attached. For more information, call the Sports Core Pool at 410-641-5255.
The Angel Tree initiative began in the 1970s with the Salvation Army. Now, communities across the country participate in the project, spreading holiday cheer by buying gifts for kids who might not otherwise get to unwrap a Christmas present.
The Salvation Army’s website explains, “Angel Tree is a holiday assistance program in which an individual or group sponsors a child 'Angel' and purchases new toys, clothing, shoes, or gift cards for children. Every Christmas, there are children who do not receive gifts because their families cannot afford the expense. Especially this year, The Salvation Army is serving more working families who never expected to need help and now cannot keep up financially due to inflation and rising food costs.”
Other efforts to give back in Ocean Pines this season include a food drive and a Toys for Tots collection sponsored by the group, Ocean Pines Get Involved. Boxes for the food drive can be found at the community’s Administration Building at White Horse Park. Requested items include non-perishables, such as canned goods, which will be donated to Diakonia to benefit financially disadvantaged local families.
Ocean Pines Get Involved has also kick-started its Toys for Tots project. Donation bins are located at the Administration Building, the Yacht Club, and the Clubhouse. Toys must be new and can be dropped off at any of the boxes until about mid-December.
In addition to donation efforts, the Pine’eer Craft Club announced this week that it has extended its December hours at its Artisan Gift Shop, offering residents a chance to shop locally for handmade Christmas and Hanukkah gifts. The store will be open Fridays before Christmas from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Artisan Gift Shop, its website says, “is an extension of the Pine'eer Craft Club, a local group started in 1974.” The crafters fashion handmade items such as home decor, jewelry, and more to sell in the retail shop at White Horse Park.
Sale profits are donated to organizations in Ocean Pines, like the police and fire departments, the recreation and parks team, the annual summer concerts in the park, and the Worcester County Veterans Memorial, among others.
Hometown Christmas set
Ocean Pines Recreation and Parks invites community members to kick off the holiday season at the 15th annual Hometown Christmas on Saturday, Nov.29, at White Horse Park
Festivities begin with the traditional tree-ighting ceremony at 6:30 p.m., followed by Santa in the Park from 7-8 p.m. Tree sponsorships are available. Fees are $75 for returning sponsors and $100 for new sponsors. For information, contact Ocean Pines Recreation and Parks at 410-641-7052.
Hometown Christmas is free and open to the public. Complimentary hot choco-
late and cookies will be provided. For questions or additional details, contact Katie Goetzinger at 410-6417052 or kgoetzinger@oceanpines.org
Holiday shows planned
The Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra (MSO) will present three performance of its annual Holiday Joy concert in the region. Led by Grammy Award-winning Music Director Michael Repper, the orchestra will perform on Thursday, Dec.v4 at 7:30 p.m. at the Todd Performing Arts Center at Chesapeake College in Wye Mills, Saturday, Dec. 6 at 7:30 p.m. at Cape Hen-
lopen High School in Lewes, and Sunday, Dec. 7 at 3 p.m. at the Ocean City Performing Arts Center.
This year’s will feature returning guest soloists Kresley Figueroa, soprano, as well as Jonathan Patton, baritone, two rising operatic voices whose performances have captivated audiences nationwide. Together with the orchestra, they will perform a blend of holiday songs, classic carols, and celebrated opera arias.
Audiences will hear orchestral works including “Festive Fanfare,” Leroy Anderson’s “Christmas Festival” and “Sleigh Ride,” along with arrangements of “White Christmas,” “Let It Snow,” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.”
The program also features opera arias, duets, and “’Twas the Night Before Christmas,” narrated by the soloists.
Gov. Challenge returns
The Governors Challenge Collegiate tips off its inaugural tournament this Friday through Sunday, Nov. 21-23 at the Wicomico Civic Center.
The tournament features nine Division III men’s and women’s basketball teams competing over the three-day span.
“We’re excited about expanding the Governors Challenge brand into the collegiate space,” said Justin Polizzi, tourism manager for Wicomico County.
everyday living, & the sleeping areas are separate from the main living spaces. There is access to the screened porch from the Primary BR. Upstairs, you’ll find the 4th BR with park views & a large workshop area, ideal for hobbies or extra storage. The Roof and the Gas Heat have been replaced in the past 3 years.
The men’s teams participating include Salisbury University, No. 10 ranked Roanoke College, No. 13 ranked Wesleyan University, Notre Dame of Maryland University, and Gettysburg College. Two of these teams are currently ranked in the top 25 by D3hoops.com.
The women’s teams in attendance include Salisbury University, Lehman College, Kean University and Immaculata College.
A pop-up shop debuting official tournament apparel from the Governors Challenge and Starter collaboration will be on site. Preorders are open for the merchandise online at govchallengemerch.square.site/ and a limited number of items will be available for purchase in-person at the tournament.
Very limited space remains in the free youth basketball clinics happening Friday, Nov. 21. The Salisbury University men’s and women’s basketball coaches and players will provide instruction. To register visit www.governorschallenge.org/collegiate/commu nity/youth-clinic.
Course sign-ups online
Wor-Wic Community College is accepting registrations for credit classes in the spring term, which begins on Wednesday, Jan. 21. Early registration is encouraged for the best selection of classes.
Admission, financial aid, career exploration, enrollment coaching, academic advising and registration services are available Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Fridays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Student services are also available on select Saturdays.
Wor-Wic offers several different credit class formats, including on-campus and online, and seven- or 15-week sessions.
OCU applications sought
The Town of Ocean City is accepting applications for the 2026 semester of Ocean City University. The free course invites residents to learn more about the town’s municipal government and its services.
Classes are held on Wednesdays from 6-9 p.m., beginning Jan. 14, 2026. There is no charge for the 10-week course, which offers citizens a diverse background on Ocean City by covering topics on public works, public safety, tourism, finance and a variety of areas related to Ocean City’s municipal government.
“The goal of Ocean City University is to provide a better understanding of government’s role and relationship with citizens, as well as continue to build the relationship between government and residents to improve our community’s quality of life,” said City Manager Terry McGean. “We hope this course gives citizens a sense of ownership in government actions because we believe informed citizens can make a difference in the community.”
A minimum of 20 students must be enrolled in the course. To sign up, visit oceancitymd.gov or call the City Clerk’s Office at 410-289-8824 by Dec.19.
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 22: TBA
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 21: TBA
Saturday, November 22: On The Edge
CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE
302-988-5000 37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54, Selbyville, DE Friday, November 21: Hurricane Kevin
Wednesday, November 26: Dawn Williams
CRAWL STREET TAVERN
443-373-2756 Wicomico St., Downtown O.C. Friday, November 21: Josh Rose Saturday, November 22: Groovejoose
FAGER’S ISLAND
410-524-5500 60th St., In The Bay Friday, November 21: Big Machine & DJ Groove Saturday, November 22: The Boh Daddies & DJ RobCee
Wednesday, November 26: The
DJ ROBCEE Fager’s Island: Saturday, November 22
TURKEY BOWL W/ DJ BK Greene Turtle West: Wednesday, November 26
DJ BILLY T Harborside: Fridays
PHIL PERDUE Captain’s Table: Fridays & Saturdays
DJ BIGLER Harborside: Saturday, November 22
DJ WAX Pickles Pub: Tuesdays
DAWN WILLIAMS Crabcake Factory Bayside: Wednesday, November 26
CARLEY TWIGG Cantina Los Agaves: Tuesday, November 25
Seacrets: Friday, Nov. 21
LOST FIGURES
Who’s Where When
GREENE TURTLE WEST
410-213-1500
Route 611, West OC
Wednesday, November 26:
Turkey Bowl w/ DJ BK
HARBORSIDE
410-213-1846
South Harbor Rd., West End O.C.
Friday, November 21: DJ Billy T
Saturday, November 22: Lost Figures & DJ Bigler
Sunday, November 23: Opposite Directions
PICKLES PUB
410-289-4891
8th St. & Philadelphia Ave.
Friday, November 21:
Kaleo Wasman Of Pepper & Howi From Ballyhoo w/ Ashley Larue Band (Ticket Event)
Saturday, November 22:
LNJ Sessions
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 21: Naked Nation, Dueling Pianos, Tommi Boi & DJ E-State
Saturday, November 22: John McNutt Duo, DJ Davie, DJ Connair & Radio Stranger
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.
COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
OCES VETERANS
In honor of Veterans Day, Ocean City Elementary School second grade students from Melanie Coleman's class enjoyed a live zoom from Lieutenant Colonel Will Oles, the director of operations at MCAS Miramar. Oles is a relative of teacher Melanie Coleman. Oles taught students all about his duties as a marine, including flying Osprey for three deployments and now a part of the air traffic control at Miramar Marine Corps Base, in San Diego, Calif. Students really enjoyed asking him questions and having him engage in conversation with the class.
VISIONARIES IN SNOW HILL
"Visionaries" is an AfterSchool Art Club at Snow Hill Middle School for grades 4/5 sponsored by the nonprofit Art League of Ocean City. The group created art with the theme of "A Winter Palette." Instructor Heather Shockley said, "The 'ooooo' and 'wow' that came from the group when watching colors blend, seeing the effect of spraying isopropyl alcohol onto the wet watercolor for an icy sky, and that satisfying crisp edge when they peeled the masking off was a heartwarming moment."
SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC
ROTARY POUND AUCTION
The Ocean City-Berlin Rotary Club recently held a pound auction with all proceeds going to Rotary's Polio Plus (polio eradication program). Members bid on wrapped unidentified items that weighed about a pound. Pictured, from left, are members Margaret Mudron, Jim Loveless, Lou Ann Danner, Gina Shaffer and Cliff Berg with a variety of gifts. The club meets the first and third Wednesday of the month at the Ocean Pines Branch of the Worcester County Library.
ALOC DONATION FROM FOUNDATION
The Delmarva Leathernecks Foundation recently presented a $1,000 donation to the Art League of Ocean City to support the Art League’s mission in providing art supplies and classes to local students, seniors, veterans and individuals with disabilities. Pictured are Don Coffin, President of the Foundation, and Courtney Blackford, First Vice President and Chair of the Resource Development Committee of the Art League, and members of the foundation, Vic Freeman, Tom Wengert, Jim Wright and Chuck Schaub.
GARDEN CLUB NUTRITION
PROGRAM
being donated in her honor to Snow Hill Christian Nursery School. Pictured, from left, are Program Chair Pat Arata, Wool and Club President Susan Fletcher.
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SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Registered Dietician Kathy Wool recently spoke to the Worcester County Garden Club about nutrition and the benefits of growing vegetables and herbs. She encouraged members to start with a vegetable and then build the meal around it. In appreciation, the National Garden Club book “Network with Nature” is
SUBMITTED
The Ocean City Lioness Lions Club made a donation to the Atlantic General Hospital JAG for their recent fundraiser, Boot, Scoot and BBQ. Pictured above are Susan McHenry, Treasurer; Ashley Furbay, of JAG; and Donna Greenwood, president.
HONOR SOCIETY INDUCTEES
In a ceremony Nov. 12, the Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) Charles R. Jenkins Chapter of the National Honor Society (NHS) inducted 28 new members. Pictured, front from left, are Emma Nordstrom, Isha Garg, Keerat Pandher, Gabriella Damouni and Sydney Parker; second row, Alex Gjoni, Chase Burbage, Lyla Roberts, Kayley Adkins, Lara Owens, Meredith Walston, Cora McClanahan, Kyler Phillips and Matt Armstrong; third row, Darren Lockard, Jack Wells, Max Lev, Michael Hall, Ronen Poddar, Ansh Batra and Justin McGovern; and third row, Caleb Walston, Jackson Griffin, Gavin Mann, Danny Kirwan and Jacob Lev. Not pictured, Olivia Soares
by Steve Green
The Adventures of Fatherhood
(The following is a reprint from Oct. 29, 2021.)
It’s school picture time, which is not exactly a favorite for the 13year-old kid of the house.
Expecting the worst, I have no doubt we will be disappointed when these photos arrive in a few weeks of at least one of the boys. Considering Beckett doesn’t like to show his teeth when he smiles now (despite a year of Invisalign) and likes his hair down covering his green eyes, I am keeping my expectations low for next week’s picture day for Beckett.
Carson had his photo taken on Tuesday, and he seems to really like putting on a nice shirt for his picture each year. He even practiced his smile for me several times, asking in his non-verbal way if he was good with a thumb up or thumb down. Of course, he got a huge thumb up from me. Years from now, little will we remember he was wearing athletic shorts and no socks and holding two stuffed animals in his lap.
No matter how the pictures turn out with these two boys, the pictures will be keepsakes for years to come and get their places on the Lifetouch wall at home and around my office. The pictures from their early grades bring on the “awe” moments these days. I’m wondering what the middle school pictures of them will conjure in future years. Maybe some head shakes and bewilderment, but it’s all good. Snapshots in time are priceless.
here is a big difference between a closed door and a locked door.
We have no problems with our kids closing their bedroom doors, but we dislike a locked door so much we removed the dead bolts on their doors within a month of moving into our new house. There should be no option on that front in our opinion.
It’s interesting to read up on the closed-door dialogue as many parents frown on them entirely. There are a wide range of opinions on the subject. We are fine with Beckett, 13, closing his door at home. We do insist he keep his door open when friends are in his room.
Another topic with varying parenting approaches is knocking on a teen’s door before entering. We try to knock on Beckett’s door before we enter. It’s more like a knock/open than it is a knock and await permission. It’s like a couple seconds of courtesy before we are in the room. We do not knock and wait for permission to enter. At 13 years old, there is no need for him to have that degree of privacy. Some say that’s the wrong approach, while others agree.
This is the thing about parenting. We all get to raise our kids how we wish based on our own morals, knowledge of our kids and backgrounds. There are lots of different ways to parent and oftentimes it’s singular to the individual person being raised. We don’t parent Beckett and Carson the same way, but it’s largely due to the latter having special needs. Even in neuro typical families I am close with, they treat their similar-aged kids different based on their personalities, maturity, trustworthiness and attitudes.
I learned through this parenting journey a major pet peeve of mine is judgmental parents. Unfair judgements are made far too often. There should be a recognition most of us all have our struggles and we all are committed to doing the best we can for our children. It’s none of my business if a neighbor in one direction allows their teens to keep their doors closed and if the other in a different direction finds that practice appalling. We need more acceptance in my opinion. We need to come together and lift each other up, rather than criticize and judge when we don’t know the details of the different journeys being charted.
On the topic of closed doors, a blog on the site thesuccessfulparent.com discusses this topic at length. A highlight was this passage, some of which I agree with and some of which I don’t. It’s about awareness and it’s interesting:
“Privacy is a strong need for teens. They need room to try out the various aspects of their personalities, select traits that help build an identity, and test ways to participate in the culture. One of the ways teens can experiment with privacy in a fairly safe manner is within the space of their own rooms. We suggest that you allow your teen the experience of being alone with himself while being able to maintain boundaries against intrusion by others, including you. The general suggested rules are that teens are allowed to close their doors while alone, or with friends or siblings. … Secondly, it is important that anyone who wants to enter the teen's room knock first and wait to be invited in before entering. This is a very important one. Many parents knock, but they enter while in the process of knocking which is close to entering with no warning. None of us like that sort of intrusion and we generally react with anger. Give your teens the same courtesy you expect from them. As budding adults, teens need both emotional and physical privacy. …
Privacy is important, but it does imply responsibility. Teens don't tell their parents everything, nor should they. At the same time, a general sense of trust along with limits that protect teens from danger must be facilitated. Your best bet is to spend a lot of time getting to know your teens, discussing their ideas as well as problems, and establishing a strong bond that is based on caring and understanding …”
(The writer is the executive editor of OC Today-Dispatch. He and his wife, Pamela, are proud parents of two boys. This weekly column examines their transition into parenthood and all that goes along with it. E-mail any thoughts to editor@octodaydispatch.com.)
Solid wetsuit a must for braving season’s ‘chill’
By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer
(Nov.21, 2025) We received a fairly accurate preview of winter last week on Veteran’s Day and since then our beautiful fall season has taken on a colder shift.
It’s not to be unexpected though hopefully the milder dry weather will continue as long as possible.
What this means for the surfer is more wetsuit gear though most are probably already aware. The water has dropped into the 50’s. The air temperature will hopefully rise into the 50’s during the day but there’s also the factor of the wind chill. The northwest wind is a typical winter ingredient that will definitely make a difference. It’s known as wind chill with the word “chill” being an apt description. Length of day will also be an issue. To add to the cold this lack of daylight has to be contended with. After school or work presents a shorter period, obviously, and the return to standard time doesn’t help this change either. Even if one is robust enough to engage in a before work or school session the sun doesn’t rise as early as in warmer months. Depending on one’s schedule a mitigation component can come into play, such as what a college student or restaurant employee might experience. Aside from limited hours, the lucky surfer might have the benefit most folks will have is a few days off.
It’s a situation that some could possibly not be too happy with. For a lot of local people it’s a case of being too busy in the summer months and not busy enough in the off-season winter months. At any rate it’s a challenge for those that call this area their home. Fortunately, wetsuits work well. Stay tuned for hopefully more discussion on this subject in future column/articles.
Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City
CUM LAUDE HONOREES
Worcester Preparatory School recently inducted four new members into the prestigious William E. Esham, Jr. Chapter of the prestigious Cum Laude Society. Pictured are this year’s inductees Jude Damouni, Catherine Cullen, Anisha Batra and Ansh Batra. The Cum Laude Society is a national organization founded in 1906 that honors the world’s academic excellence in secondary schools. WPS is the only school on the Eastern Shore with an established Cum Laude Chapter where superior scholastic achievement is honored.
TidalHealth brings pediatric therapy practice to shore
(Nov. 21, 2025) On Nov. 17, TidalHealth celebrated with a ribbon cutting to officially open its newest location designed specifically for kids, TidalHealth Pediatric Development & Therapy, at 2326 Goddard Parkway in Salisbury.
The Salisbury location will serve children with a wide range of needs, including autism, ADHD, Down Syndrome and developmental delays. With innovative equipment, tailored environments, and purposeful play, the clinic helps children build essential skills for daily life, communication, and learning.
“Each of our recent clinic openings represents our renewed commitment to ‘neighborhood medicine’ – bringing healthcare directly into the communities that need it most,” said Steve Leonard, President & CEO of TidalHealth. “This clinic is the first of its kind in our region, and it gives children and families access to specialized therapies, advanced equipment, and an environment designed to help them reach their fullest potential. When we invest in our children, we invest in the very best of our future.”
The new clinic, which has been open and seeing children for the past
few weeks, expands access to compassionate, individualized care for kids across the region, joining TidalHealth’s established center in Millsboro, Delaware. Together, the two sites provide ABA, occupational, and speech therapy in state-of-the-art spaces designed to help children thrive.
“For our team, this isn’t just a new building – it’s a dream come true,” said Alexis Laws, Clinical Supervisor.
“One of the greatest joys of therapy is watching a child take a first step, say a first word, or accomplish something they never thought possible. Thanks to this clinic, we’ll be able to create even more of those life-changing moments right here in Salisbury.”
The new pediatric center reflects TidalHealth’s mission to provide high-quality, accessible care across the Delmarva Peninsula – today and for generations to come.
For more information about services provided at TidalHealth Pediatric Development & Therapy or to schedule an evaluation, visit tidalhealth.org/pdt. To schedule an appointment and evaluation, please call the Salisbury office at 443-978-6022 or the Millsboro location at 443-9786020.
CROSSWORD
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
TidalHealth cut the ribbon Nov. 17 to officially open the health system’s new Pediatric Development & Therapy Clinic in Salisbury. Pictured, from left, are Steve Tracy, Vice President of Corporate Ventures & President of Peninsula Health Ventures; Alexis Laws, Clinical Supervisor; Dr. Samantha Scott, Psychology Postdoctoral Program Director, Clinical Psychology Fellowship; and Cindy Lunsford, Executive Vice President & COO of TidalHealth.
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
Aries, you understand that when you’re working hard toward a goal, the process isn’t always straightforward. You may tolerate a fair amount of challenges along the path this week.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, it may seem like others around you do not get your sense of humor. While you’re confident at telling stories, it takes others a bit of time to appreciate your funny side.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Gemini, you may be tempted to look past a recent challenge. But reflecting on that adversity and your ability to overcome it will soon pay dividends.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Keeping an open mind is one of your strong suits, Cancer. Your willingness to see all sides has benefitted your in numerous ways, and that outlook will continue to bear fruit.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Dramatic occasions and grand gestures draw your attention this week, Leo. But don’t forget to focus on some of the little things that make up most of your days.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
Virgo, you notice everything that goes on around you, and you’re aware of your own moods, too. That self-awareness serves you well in your relationships.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Libra, even though you generally do not like dealing with uncertainty, this week you’re stuck operating without a lot of advanced information. Trust your instincts.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
Sometimes you are hesitant to share your opinions until you feel certain that they are correct, Scorpio. But this week you may miss out if you’re being too cautious.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
You’re impressed when others carry themselves with confidence, Sagittarius. Learn from their behavior and emulate what you see. You will like the results.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Real life requires compromise, Capricorn. Lately it’s been your way or the highway, and those around you are taking notice. Don’t risk alienating them for good.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
Aquarius, try not to linger on others’ innocent mistakes. People make little missteps all the time. Be gracious in letting those close to you get another shot at your good graces.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
Pisces, when you’ve already made up your mind about something, it can be hard to dissuade you. Do not overlook other people’s concerns. There is value in seeing things through others’ eyes.
Cranberry pecan cheese ball
By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer
(Nov.21, 2025) Every menu is graced with appetizers, but what exactly is an appetizer?
An appetizer is a small dish of food taken before a meal to stimulate one’s appetite. But it is also a great way to give you more time when preparing a meal.
One of the hardest steps to overcome when entertaining is the timing. Several dishes have to come together at the same time for successful occasion. If you are running behind, an appetizer tickles your guests’ taste buds while you are catching up.
Cheese balls are one of the most popular appetizers. However, this is one dish where homemade versions reign supreme over store-bought. Pre-made cheese balls are predictable and do not lead to memorable merriments.
Homemade cheese balls are easy to make and can be personalized to coincide with the theme of the event. Once you understand the basic principles, it will become second nature to you.
Most cheese balls have a foundation of cream cheese. The sticky consistency of the cream cheese acts as a “glue” and holds the ball or log together. Its neutral taste allows the “star ingredients” of the cheese ball to come to the forefront.
It is important to flavor the cream cheese. Otherwise, it will be one note and boring. Lemon juice, horseradish, orange zest, garlic powder, and hot sauce can elevate the cheese so that it is packed with flavor. It also helps cut some of the richness of the cheese and brightens the overall cheese mixture.
Once the cream cheese foundation is to your liking, a splash of half and half is suggested. This will help incorporate all
of the ingredients thoroughly when mixing with a hand-held blender and yield a smooth consistency. Your blender will also thank you.
Shredded sharp cheese, spicy pepper Jack, and mozzarella are favorite additional cheese selections. Remember, there are no set rules so personal preference can help guide you in your decision process.
Contrast in texture is imperative for a successful cheese ball. Scallions, dried fruit, toasted nuts, crispy bacon, sesame seeds, roasted peppers, and pomegranate seeds are popular choices.
It is important to incorporate some of the ingredients into the actual cheese ball and then roll it in the remainder of the ingredients for a contrast in texture.
Most cheese ball recipes yield enough for one very large cheese ball. But you might want to consider making two smaller ones.
The ratio of the crunchy exterior to the soft interior is crucial. Two smaller cheese balls have a greater circumference of the coveted exterior which makes it more pleasing to the palette.
Also, it does not take long for a cheese ball to lose its beauty. And having a second one as a back-up brings the cheese ball platter back to its original look.
Cheese balls can be frozen for future use. But it is best not to freeze them with the coating. As the cheese ball thaws, the coating will lose its crispness. Simply make a fresh coating when you plan to serve it.
Thanksgiving is here and it is time to finalize the menu. A cranberry pecan cheese ball is a festive and delicious way to occupy family and guests while you take care of those last-minute preparations. Enjoy!
Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Ingredients
12 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
1 shredded cup Pepper Jack cheese, divided
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheese, divided splash half-and-half
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder few splashes fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
1 1/3 cup dried cranberries, divided 1 1/3 cup toasted chopped pecans, divided
1/4 cup scallions, finely chopped, divided 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped, divided
kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, 1/2 cup Pepper Jack cheese, 1/2 cup sharp cheese, half-and-half, garlic powder, lemon juice, horseradish, and salt. Using a hand-held blender, combine ingredients until thoroughly mixed and smooth.
2. Add 1/3 cup cranberries, 1/3 cup pecans, 1 teaspoon scallions, 1 teaspoon parsley to the cream cheese mixture and using a large spoon mix the ingredients. Using your hands, mold the cream cheese mixture into 2 cheese balls.
3. Place remaining cranberries, pecans, scallions, parsley, and fresh ground black pepper on a small sheet pan. Mix well. Roll cheese ball in the mixture until the entire surface is covered. Repeat this process for the second cheese ball.
Secret Ingredient – Soul.
A recipe has no soul. You, as the cook, must bring soul to the recipe. - Thomas Keller
vanishing vanishing OCEAN CITY
WiTh Bunk Mann
Before Thrashers Fries existed, Jodie Thomas Thrasher, Sr (1903-1980) owned a baseball pitching machine on the Boardwalk. A Texas native, he had come to Ocean City because his doctor suggested the ocean breezes would be good for his health during the humid summer.
He opened his stand at the height of the Great Depression in 1930 and did so well that in the following years he also leased locations in Wildwood, N.J. and Rehoboth Beach, Del. The game was very popular and drew crowds every night.
For a nickel a batter was given nine swings with points scored for where balls landed on a canvas screen; a free game could be won for exceeding 19 or more points. Boardwalk concessions were seasonal in that era so after Labor Day Thrasher took his pitching machine to Miami, Fla. for the winter.
The original Thrasher’s French Fry stand opened on the Boardwalk in 1939 in the former space of Nathan’s Penny Wheel. It is now an Ocean City icon.
To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com.
Photo courtesy Jodie “Joe” Thrasher, Jr.
Things I Like...
By Steve Green
Kids that ask a lot of questions
The memories made at an old church
Pasta with seafood
The shade of a big tree on a hot day
Spots on a big screen
When a tank of gas lasts a couple weeks
Sliced avocado
Observing a tree’s growth over time
Yard solar lights that work for years
Getting in a warm car on a cold morning
Leaving the cell behind every now and again
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. 21
FANDOM FRIDAY: MANGA AND ANIME
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 9 a.m.5 p.m. Drop in any time for crafts, quizzes and discussions about the monthly topic. For ages 12-18 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
OC MAHJONG CLUB
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Join in for a fun morning of playing tile Mahjong. Feel free to bring your own tile set. All adults welcome. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
OYSTER FRITTER SANDWICHES
American Legion #123, 10111 Old Ocean City Blvd., Berlin, 2 p.m. Cost is $10 for
dine-in and carry-out.
BOOK OF THE MONTH: ‘BECOMING STORY’ BY GREG SARRIS
Oaked at The Globe/Tiki Tim’s, 12 Broad St., Berlin, 2 p.m. Pick up the book at the Berlin branch circulation desk and then meet at Oaked at the Globe for a discussion. 410-641-0650, 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 3: STEAM Lab. Best for elementary and middle school students, but all are welcome. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
Sat., Nov. 22
RISING TIDES FESTIVAL
Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 2-10 p.m. 70’s Soul Jam, Performing Arts Center from 2-4 p.m. Forever Young Tour, The Music Hall from 6-10 p.m. Roller skating, silent disco. Tickets: https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/35866/r ising-tides-festival.
THANKSGIVING FESTIVAL - OCEAN PINES FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET
White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines, 9 a.m.-noon. All the best fixings for your Thanksgiving table and home. Food, demos, contests, live music and more. Open to the public. 410-6417052, oceanpines.org.
MY TECH CLINIC
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Stop by and ask questions related to your devices ad technology services. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
ST. PAUL UM CHURCH HARVEST HOME
St. Paul United Methodist Church, 405 Flower St., Berlin, 5 p.m. Held in the Educational Building. Featuring auction, food, white elephant and more. All are welcome. Sarah Mitchell, 443-859-3125
Sun., Nov. 23
THANKSGIVING SERVICE
First Presbyterian Church of Ocean City, 1301 Philadelphia Ave., 6 p.m. Giving thanks to God through worship. All are welcome. Donations accepted of packaged food goods, paper products and funds for the offering. There will be desserts and fellowship after the service.
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 Jeho-
Continued on Page 50
CALENDAR
vah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 10 a.m. www.jw.org
Mon., Nov. 24
DEMOCRATIC WOMEN’S CLUB OF WORCESTER COUNTY MEETING
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 9:30 a.m. Guest speaker will be Matthew R. Peters, Executive Director of the Chesapeake Multicultural Resource Center. Visitors and prospective members welcome. https://dwcmd.org
STORY TIME: TURKEYS
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
MOVIE MATINEE
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Come watch a recent movie you may have missed in the theaters. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
MEDIA EXPO INFO NIGHT
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 5 p.m. Come learn about the WCPS Media Expo in January and how you can participate as a student. For ages 6-18 years. 410-2084014, 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. 25
THANKSGIVING FESTIVAL - OCEAN PINES FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET
White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines, 9 a.m.-noon. All the best fixings for your Thanksgiving table and home. Food, demos, contests, live music and more. Open to the public. 410-6417052, oceanpines.org
SENSORY STORY TIME Worcester County Library - Berlin
Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m.
Story time geared for ages 0-5 years featuring seasonal themes designed to support early literacy skills with stories, songs and fingerplays. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
BABY TIME
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Songs, rhymes and stories. Stay after to socialize with other families. For ages 0-2 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
STORY TIME: TURKEY TALES AND GAMES
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 10:30 a.m. Celebrate Thanksgiving with turkey stories, games and crafts. 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
FAIRY MINI GOLF
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30 p.m. Design, build and test your very own tiny tabletop golf hole. Then add it to the library’s fairy golf course and take a whirl. For families. 410-208-4014, 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. 410641-4882, www.htcanglican.org/activities.
Wed., Nov. 26
COFFEE & CRAFTS: CARD MAKING
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Join in every month for a new craft. Materials provided. Limit 30. 410-5241818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
WICKEDLY GOOD PARTY
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Create some crafts inspired by the movie “Wicked” and enjoy light refreshments. For families. 410-208-4014, 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
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
ONGOING EVENTS
3RD ANNUAL TRAIN DISPLAY
Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department, North Station, 249 Ocean Parkway, Nov.
23 to Jan. 5. Free entry; donations appreciated. Hours are Fridays, 6-9 p.m.; Saturdays 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6-9 p.m.; and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. www.OPVFD.com
P.E.P. CLUB CHRISTMAS WISH TREE
Choose a tag off of the P.E.P. Club Christmas tree, wrap the gift and return with tag attached by Dec. 15. Christmas Tree is located in the Ocean Pines Community Center lobby.
SEND LETTERS TO SANTA
Drop off letters to Santa at the red mailbox in the Ocean Pines Community Center, Nov. 25 to Dec. 20. Include child’s name and address so Santa can respond.
LETTERS TO SANTA
Drop off letters to Santa at the Berlin Welcome Center, 14 S. Main Street. Receive a letter back with a coupon for a free treat. BerlinMainStreet.com
BE
A SANTA TO A SENIOR PROGRAM
Select an item from Home Instead’s “Be A Santa To A Senior” Amazon wish list, purchase a gift card; or donate items such as warm clothing, blankets, crafts, puzzles and personal hygiene items. Drop off gifts to the Ocean Pines Community Center by Dec. 10. Gifts do not need to be wrapped. 410-641-7052, oceanpines.org
WINTERFEST OF LIGHTS
Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City. Open Wednesdays through Sundays, Nov. 20-Dec. 21 and open daily Dec. 22-31, 5:30-9:30 p.m. Cost is $6 for adults and free to those 11 years and younger. Enjoy a walk-through winter wonderland experience. Also featuring 50-foot Christmas tree, refreshments, bonfire, interactive games, photos with Santa Claus, family crafts and a gift shop. Tickets: www.ococean.com/winterfest/. On Dec. 1, 8, 9 and 15, enjoy a horsedrawn carriage ride through the lights. Enchanted Evenings tickets: https://www.etix.com/ticket/e/1054835 /enchanted-evenings-ocean-city-winterfest-of-lights.
Pets are welcome on Wednesday evenings. Mobility devices available for rent on site - $10 per two hours (scooters, powered wheelchairs) - standard wheelchairs also available. Scooters-4Rent.com 302-280-6203. Info: 410-289-2800.
Crossword answers from page 46
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
Taylor Marine Center (West Ocean City) 11850 Ocean Gateway, 21842 (410-213-1391)
Boat Yard Assistant Full Time Position, Paid Health Insurance, 401K, Five Day Work Week, 8:30-5:00. Duties: Boat movement, bottom painting, cleaning boats, yard maintenance etc. Punctuality, self motivation, orderliness, ability to pass drug screening, along with Valid Driver’s License. Compensation hourly dependent on experience. Apply in person, call or email aschlaich@ taylormarinecenter.com
RENTALS
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
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.
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.
51
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.
JAMES E. CLUBB, JR., ESQ.
108 N. 8th Street
Ocean City, Maryland 21842
TRUSTEE'S SALE
OF TIME-SHARE INTERVALS IN THE OCEAN TIME CONDOMINIUM OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND
By virtue of a Claim of Lien recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, and pursuant to the Order of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, Case No. C-23-CV-25-000193, the undersigned Trustee will offer for sale at public auction at the Ocean Time Condominium building located at 13 136th Street, Ocean City, MD 21842, the following described property located in the Town of Ocean City, in the Tenth Election District of Worcester County, Maryland, on
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9,
without forfeiting deposit, the Seller may exercise any of its legal or equitable rights against the defaulting purchaser.
For more information, call: James E. Clubb, Jr., Esq. Trustee 410-289-2323
OCD-11/20/3t
COHN, GOLDBERG & DEUTSCH, LLC
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.
chaser 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 remedy 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
400 2ND STREET
A/R/T/A 400 SECOND STREET POCOMOKE CITY, MARYLAND 21851
Each time interval being one week per year of the corresponding unit, each unit being part of the Ocean Time Condominium as established pursuant to a Condominium Declaration and By-Laws recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, and subsequent Time-Share Instruments as to each condominium unit, and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records.
The property will be sold in an as is condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranties or guarantees. A secured party may bid and shall be excused from deposit requirements. The Trustee reserves the right to reject any and all bids.
Terms of Sale: A deposit in the full amount of sale per time interval will be required at the time of sale, such deposit to be in cash or check. Cost of all recordation and transfer taxes, the 2026 maintenance fee, and all other incidental settlement costs shall be borne by the purchaser. The date of settlement shall be fifteen (15) days after final ratification by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, time being of the essence; otherwise, the deposit will be forfeited and the property will be resold at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser, or in any manner designated by the Trustee; or,
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, pur-
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, attor-
neys’ 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
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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
OCD-11/6/3t
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 requirements. 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
OCD-11/6/3t
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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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
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
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 OCD-11/6/3t
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 repre-
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
AUTH: Raymond J Austin Chief of Police
sentative 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
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, Maryland, that the sale of the prop-
erty 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
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 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 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
OCD-11/13/3t
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
NOTICE
of Public Hearing
Expansion of the West Ocean City Sanitary Service Area to add multiple properties West of the Intersection with Sunset Avenue
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, 274-
Par 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
THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OCD-11/13/2t
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 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
COHN, GOLDBERG & DEUTSCH, LLC ATTORNEYS AT LAW 1099 WINTERSON ROAD, SUITE 301 LINTHICUM HEIGHTS, MARYLAND 21090 410-296-2550 File #: 453911
Richard E. Solomon
Richard J. Rogers
Michael McKeefery
Christianna Kersey
Kyle Blackstone
Jason Murphy
Brandon Ewing 1099 Winterson Road, Suite 301 Linthicum Heights, MD 21090
Substitute Trustees Plaintiffs v.
Geraldine M. Bell, Personal Representative for the Estate of Eugene S. Purnell 10531 Harrison Road Berlin, MD 21811
Defendant IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND
Case No. C-23-CV-25-000260
NOTICE
Notice is hereby given this 14th day of November, 2025, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings, made and reported, will be ratified and confirmed, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 15th day of December, 2025, provided a copy of this notice be published in a newspaper of general circulation in Worcester County, once in each of three successive weeks before the 8th day of December, 2025. The Report of Sale states the amount of the foreclosure sale price to be $127,024.89. The property sold herein is known as 10531 Harrison Road, Berlin, MD 21811. Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, Maryland True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD
OCD-11/20/3t
IN THE ORPHANS’ COURT FOR (OR) BEFORE THE REGISTER OF WILLS FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND IN THE ESTATE OF:
BRIAN LYNN KERRIGAN ESTATE NO. 20565
NOTICE
OF JUDICIAL PROBATE
To all Persons Interested in the above estate:
You are hereby notified that a petition has been filed by Jeanne Pelayo, 18 Robin Hood Trail, Berlin, MD 21811 for judicial probate for the appointment of a personal representative. A hearing will be held at One W. Market Street, Court Room 4, Court House, Snow Hill, MD 21863 on December 16, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. This hearing may be transferred or postponed to a subsequent time. Further information may be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills. Terri Westcott Register of Wills One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074
Phone: (410) 632-1529
Newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Publication Date: November 20, 2025
OCD-11/20/2t
CHRISTOPHER S ROBINS ESQ ROBINS & ROBINS, P.A. 128 EAST MAIN STREET SALISBURY, MD 21801
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of CHARLES L WAITE III Estate No. 20912 Notice is given that DANIEL M WESTERLUND whose address is 6217 TIMMONS RD SNOW HILL, MD 21863-2429 was on NOVEMBER 13, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of CHARLES L WAITE III who
died on NOVEMBER 11, 2025 with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 13th 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 13th 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.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET
ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE
SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074
OCD-11/20/3t
SUMMARY NOTICE OF BOND SALE
$46,345,000
MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF OCEAN CITY
GENERAL OBLIGATION MUNICIPAL PURPOSE BONDS OF 2025
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Mayor and City Council of Ocean City (the “City”) will receive electronic bids via PARITY® for the $46,345,000* General Obligation Municipal Purpose Bonds of 2025 (the “Bonds”) until 11:00 a.m., local Ocean City, Maryland time on:
Thursday, December 4, 2025
or on such other date as may be selected by the Mayor. The Bonds will be dated as of the date of delivery and will mature on January 15 in the years 2027 through 2046, inclusive, as more fully described in the Notice of Sale.
No bid for less than all of the
Bonds will be considered. The Bonds will be awarded based on the lowest interest cost to the City, determined in accordance with the true interest cost (TIC) method. All bids must be accompanied by a good faith deposit in the amount of $926,900, payable by wire transfer to the City, as provided in the Notice of Sale.
Copies of the Preliminary Official Statement and the Notice of Sale relating to the Bonds may be obtained from the Finance Director of the City, City Hall, 301 N. Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, or from First Tryon Advisors, LLC, 1 Park Place, Suite 485, Annapolis, Maryland 21401 (410-267-8811).
OCD-11/20/2t
Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland
PROPOSAL
SOLICITATION
P02-26 – Eagles Landing Golf Course Improvements II
The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Eagles Landing Golf Course Improvements II and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.
BID Documents for the Eagles Landing Golf Course Improvements II may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Leonard at dleonard@oceancitymd.gov, or by calling (410) 723-6643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their BID’s. The Town is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any thirdparty service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.
A Pre-Proposal Meeting will be held on WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10TH, 2025 AT 8:00AM, IN THE EAGLES LANDING GOLF COURSE CLUBHOUSE PARKING LOT, 12367 EAGLES NEST ROAD, BERLIN, MARYLAND 21811. The last day for questions will be on THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18TH, 2025, AT 3:00PM. Addendum will be posted by close of business on FRIDAY, OCTOBER 19TH, 2025. Sealed BID Documents are due no later than TUESDAY, JANUARY 6TH, 2026, BY 3:00 PM. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the PROCUREMENT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, ON FRIDAY, JANUARY 9TH, 2026, AT 10:00AM. BID’s are to
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
be submitted to the Procurement Office located at 214 65th Street, Ocean City, MD 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (Eagles Landing Golf Course Improvements II) must be noted on the outside of the package.
Late BID Documents will not be accepted.
Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation.
Matt Perry Procurement Manager Town of Ocean City, Maryland OCD-11/20/8t
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of MICHAEL CHARLES WOOL Estate No. 20608 Notice is given that KATHY WOOL whose
address is 5105 CREEK RD., SNOW HILL, MD 21863-3667 was on NOVEMBER 12, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MICHAEL CHARLES WOOL who died on OCTOBER 23, 2024 with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 12th day of May, 2026
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 12th day of 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.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-11/20/3t
SMALL ESTATE
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Estate No. 20908 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ROBERT G. BURGIO
Notice is given that Wendy Campbell, 32 Saint Marks Church Rd., Perryville, MD 21903-2564, was on November 10, 2025 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Robert G. Burgio who died on September 17, 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.
Wendy Campbell 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 20, 2025 OCD-11/20/1t
SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20881 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF FRANCIS E.M. EARLY
AKA: FRANCIS ELDER MOALE EARLY JR., FRANCIS EARLY JR.
Notice is given that Jerry D. Browning, 2208 Sunningdale Rd., Kingsport, TN 37660-2941, was on November 07, 2025 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Francis E.M. Early who died on July 18, 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.
Jerry D. Browning 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 20, 2025 OCD-11/20/1t
JOHN P CUSTIS ESQ
JOHN P CUSTIS, LLC ATTORNEY AT LAW 1408 S SALISBURY BLVD SALISBURY, MD 21801-7127
NOTICE
TO
CREDITORS
OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES ESTATE NO. 20904
NOTICE IS GIVEN that the CIRCUIT court of ACCOMACK, VIRGINIA appointed (1) ERICA C WEBB whose address is PO BOX 284 PARKSLEY, VA 23421-0284, (2) CLIFFORD DONOVAN WEBB whose address is PO BOX 192 PARKSLEY, VA 23421-0192 as the EXECUTOR of the Estate of ELSIE FULLER WEBB who died on OCTOBER 02, 2023 domiciled in VIRGINIA, USA
The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service
of process is (1) JOHN P CUSTIS whose address is 1408 S SALISBURY BLVD SALISBURY, MD 21801-7127, (2) JOHN P CUSTIS whose address is 1408 S SALISBURY BLVD SALISBURY, MD 21801-7127. 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-11/20/3t
JOHN P CUSTIS ESQ
JOHN P CUSTIS, LLC ATTORNEY AT LAW
1408 S SALISBURY BLVD SALISBURY, MD 21801-7127
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of DORTY LEE WEBB Estate No. 20903 Notice is given that ERICA C WEBB whose address is PO BOX 284 24311 COOKE STREET PARKSLEY, VA 234210284 was on NOVEMBER 17, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of DORTY LEE WEBB who died on APRIL 27, 2023 with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 17th 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 17th 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 no-
tice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-11/20/3t
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20910 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ROBERT DAVID HUME
Notice is given that Keith Hume, 2917 Barrets Pointe Rd., Williamsburg, VA 23185-7557, was on November 13, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Robert David Hume who died on October 28, 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 of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 13th 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 13th 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.
Keith Hume
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 20, 2025
COLOR RUN BENEFIT HELD
The inaugural “Color Run for the Arts” took place on Saturday, Nov. 15, at Veteran’s Memorial Park in Ocean Pines. The event included a 5K race, a children’s run, a two-mile walk, artisans, and food trucks. The event was a fundraiser for the nonprofit Art League of Ocean City. Top, Mackenzie Gordon tosses color on the runners. Bottom left, Courtney Blackford finishes the first leg of the 5K race. Bottom right, mother and daughter Jaidee and Jessica Vit received flowers after their completion.
SUBMITTED PHOTOS/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Council awards bids for golf course, bathroom upgrades
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Nov. 21, 2025) Ocean City government agreed Monday night to take steps to remedy tidal flooding at Eagle’s Landing Golf Course that at times renders some holes unplayable.
The council voted to award a bid to McDonald & Sons, Inc. to complete a revised tidal flooding remediation project at the city-owned course. The revision was required after the three companies bidding on the job came in well over the $2.3 million budget.
Planning Succession Business
In June, the council agreed to solicit bids for remediation work at the course, where tidal flooding had affected play at several holes, Recreation and Parks Director Kate Gaddis told officials.
Three months later, however, the city accepted three bids, all of which came in over budget. The lowest of three bids, submitted by McDonald & Sons, came in at $3.25 million.
Back on this week’s agenda, the council voted to award the project to McDonald & Sons, which had worked with city staff to negotiate a revised scope of work. As part of that negotiation, the company submitted a lower cost estimate of $1.49 million.
Nov. 20 - Nov. 27
The project would be funded partially through bond sale proceeds for $1.75 million. The remaining allocation would be utilized to address mitigation planting and bridges at the golf course.
“Total project expenses currently forecast at an estimated not-to-exceed amount of $2,000,000.00,” a memo to the council reads. “Expenses exceeding approved bond allocation to be paid for through prior year funding reserves in the Eagle's Landing Golf Course fund balance.”
On Monday, the council also voted to award a bid to Infinity Construction and Development to complete renovation work at both the Worcester Street and Caroline Street comfort stations. With a bid of $470,469 for the Worcester Street project and a bid of $304,030 for the Caroline Street project, the company submitted the lowest pricing out of the six vendors that submitted proposals.
“We felt they were the most responsive and responsible bidder, and they were the low apparent bid for both product efforts,” Procurement Manager Matt Perry told city officials this week. “So we are recommending that the mayor and City Council move forward with formally awarding
Saturrdday 10:30am-12:30pm 6305 Atlantic A
Saturrdday 11am-1pm
Saturrdday 11am-1pm
Saturrdday 11am-1pm Str
Hileman/Hileman 8 89th Strreeet Unit 402, Ocean City 2BR/2BA
Saturrdday 11am-1pm 301 Atlantic A
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Old Bridge Rd, W Weest OC 2BR/2BA
Saturrdday Noon-3pm 11204 City Saturrdday Noon-3pm 36304
Meehan/Katy Durham/Cold
Project on tap for Eagle’s Landing
them.”
However, the total cost of $774,499 will exceed the city’s budgeted amount of roughly $720,000, Public Works Director Hal Adkins said. To that end, the city will require supplemental funding of $157,292.
“We plan to recognize $40,813 from interest from a previous bond issuance, we closed out the police substation down at Somerset Street with about $21,000 left in that account, and we intend to transfer $95,000 out of the capital reserve
fund to assemble the necessary money,” he said. “I remind you though that a large portion of what I’m assembling is a 10% contingency on top of what’s being awarded. That’s roughly $77,000.”
Adkins said the plan is to return most of that money back to the city when the projects are completed. With no further questions, the council voted to award the bid, with expenditure approval up to $774,499.
Officials noted that the two comfort stations would be closed until
next April, as construction crews will be on site to demolish the interiors and renovate both facilities. Adkins added that the second floor of the Worcester Street comfort station –the former substation for the Ocean City Police Department – would be converted into a command center for major special events at the inlet.
“It’s a big project, and I think it’s well overdue,” Mayor Rick Meehan said. “And I think it will make a significant difference to the facilities on the Boardwalk.”
PHOTO/OC
An example of the flooding issues prevalent at Eagle’s Landing Golf Course is pictured.
New primary care doctor
TidalHealth has welcomed Eugide Othepa, MD, to Atlantic General Primary Care in Berlin.
Othepa earned his medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine in West Indies, Dominica. He completed his family medicine residency at Memorial Hospital Gulfport in Mississippi, where he was chief resident.
He is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians and the Missis-
sippi Academy of Family Physicians and brings extensive clinical experience, including research and publications. He was also on faculty at Ross University School of Medicine as a clinical teaching fellow. He is fluent in English and French. Outside of medicine, Dr. Othepa enjoys spending time with his family, cooking, exercising, exploring new music and reading.
Holiday sales forecast
The Maryland Retailers Alliance (MRA) has released its annual holiday sales outlook following the National Retail Federation’s (NRF) nationwide forecast. The NRF anticipates U.S. holiday retail sales will grow between 3.7% and 4.2% this season, surpassing the $1 trillion mark for the first time.
This national projection, coupled with Maryland-specific economic indicators, suggests a holiday season marked by
steady but cautious consumer spending across the state’s retail sector. For Maryland retailers from apparel and electronics to home goods, specialty retail, grocery, and small businesses, this signals a potential opportunity for modest growth.
Retailers across the state are preparing for a season where shoppers remain engaged but more price-sensitive, with spending decisions influenced by inflation, household budgeting, and shifts in discretionary purchasing.
NAR tips for privacy, safety in home selling
By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer
(Nov. 21, 2025) The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) issues a Consumer Guide Series, and one of its most recent topics was on Home Selling Tips for Privacy and Safety. Safety around photos and video of your home: Everyone who enters your home during the sales process likely has a camera. Your agent, professional photographer, buyers themselves, home inspectors and appraisers,
just to name a few, will be capturing images and video of your home. With your permission, the listing images will be shared on the MLS, which provides it to brokerage websites and portals where buyers search. In all these scenarios, photos, video or scans may be taken.
Real estate professionals and lenders should have safeguards in place to ensure the security of sensitive data, but there are important steps you can take to make sure you don’t inadvertently share personal information with bad actors in the event of a breach:
1. Stow personal items and photos. Put away anything that reveals personal details,
including family photos, visible calendars, mail, computer logins, wi-fi passwords and documents with sensitive information. Even diplomas, awards or books can give away more than you realize.
2. Secure your valuables. Lock up jewelry, important and sensitive documents, firearms and prescription medications. A small lockbox or safe is a worthwhile investment to provide peace of mind with visitors coming and going.
3. Discourage unapproved photography. Although an agent generally accompanies buyers when they’re in the home, it’s possible for buyers to wander and take photos or videos. You can ask your
agent to include a “No Personal Photography” note in the MLS.
Bonus tip: use an electronic lockbox. Electronic lockboxes limit access to real estate professionals who are licensees. Your agent can also use the lockbox to grant one-time or one-day access to service providers who are involved in the sale. Electronic lockboxes record exactly who enters your home and when. This is safer than a combination lock, in which the combination could be shared without your knowledge.
— Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record for Keller Williams Realty Delmarva in Ocean City, Maryland.
Eugide Othepa
Worcester schools continue to outperform expectations
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Nov. 21, 2025) Worcester County Public Schools have again proven their academic prowess, according to a presentation delivered Tuesday to the Worcester County Board of Education.
Tom Hamill, coordinator of research and student information, and Jennifer McDowell, accountability coordinator, gave the board of education and the school community a more in-depth look at the system’s star ratings under Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).
The Maryland State Department of Education uses ESSA to evaluate each school’s overall performance based on specific criteria. According to WCPS, these include, for elementary and middle schools, academic achievement, academic progress, progress in achieving English language proficiency, and measures of school quality and student success.
For high schools, the system includes academic achievement, graduation rate, progress in English language proficiency, readiness for postsecondary success, and measures of school quality and student success.
For that analysis, each facility receives a star rating from one to five, with five indicating strong student success. MSDE revealed this year’s statewide ESSA data
in a press release on Nov. 4. According to those results, in Worcester County, every eligible school earned a four or a five, the only school system in the state of Maryland to do so.
On Tuesday of this week, Hamill and McDowell provided the local community with a more detailed look at the data, further showing that WCPS continues to outperform counties across the state and even what would typically be expected for schools with similar poverty rates.
This week’s presentation began with McDowell reminding board members that ESSA ratings are based on the percentage of possible points a school earns. Schools must have at least 45 possible points to receive a star rating, and ratings reflect performance from the prior school year. A score of 75% or higher earns five stars, while a score of 60–70% earns four.
All of WCPS’s elementary schools received four stars, except Snow Hill Elementary School, which does not qualify for the rating. Furthermore, each of the system’s middle schools, Stephen Decatur Middle School, Snow Hill Middle School, and Pocomoke Middle School, was given four stars. Stephen Decatur High School also received four stars, while Pocomoke High School and Snow Hill High School reached five-star status. Hamill noted that last year, SHHS
OCES attendance data linked to vacations
earned four stars but was only about a half-point away from five. This time around, the institution hit that highachievement threshold.
Hamill also touched on a pattern at Ocean City Elementary School. Last year, the facility was considered a five-star institution, while this year it fell to four stars. According to the coordinator of research, this can likely be traced back to the number of vacations taken by OCES students.
“One thing that Ocean City Elementary's principal mentioned to me is that there were a lot of vacations,” Hamill said. “I didn’t think vacations had much to do with it at all. So, I went ahead and I took a look at OCES’s attendance data from last year. They had 77 students who were chronically absent. Of those, 22 had taken a vacation. If 17 of those hadn’t taken that vacation .. OCES would be a five-star school.”
Later in the meeting, Jon Andes, board member and former Worcester County school superintendent, said that OCES families take more vacation time than any other elementary school in Worcester, but that there is a reasonable explanation for the phenomenon.
“[OCES attendance] has been an issue for a long time,” he said. “When I was superintendent, that was a significant challenge for us. Many of the business owners in Ocean City, the only time they can take a vacation is sometime in the winter… that’s the only time they can realistically take a vacation. And I understand that. Family time is critically important.”
Superintendent Annette Wallace said that when calendar options are brought forward for discussion, some “creative solutions” will be presented to allow families to take vacations during school breaks.
Despite excessive vacation days, OCES ranked as the number one public elementary school in the state of Maryland by U.S. News & World Report.
“That’s a tremendous accomplishment,” Andes said.
In the same vein as attendance, Hamill said that when looking at the high school’s star ratings, these facilities displayed some growth in the chronic absenteeism measurement. PHS and SHHS picked up two additional points, and SDHS earned three and a half additional points.
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“There has been a lot of work on our end to get attendance better, to help really convey the importance of attending, and I think those efforts have paid dividends at the high school level in particular,” Hamill said.
According to the data, WCPS is outperforming its own expectations, officials said.
Hamill presented statewide scatterplots showing schools’ ESSA performance relative to their poverty levels. All but four Worcester schools scored beyond one standard deviation above what would be expected; the remaining four were on the expected line.
“At the high school level, the difference becomes stark,” Hamill said. PHS earned the 12th-highest percentage of ESSA points among Maryland high schools. “You have to go down to school number 162 before you find a school with a poverty rate as high as PHS.”
He later added, “I calculated the odds that these results would have happened by chance, given the poverty levels, for PHS… roughly 1 in 5,273. It’s pretty clear this is not by chance happening. When you go down the line, all of our schools are overperforming. PHS stands out. There's just something going on there; it's special. Really, in all of our schools.”
Hamill said that these results are “highly improbable,” and sought to find out why WCPS continues to outperform. He said that the first thing people will assume is the money in the northern end of the county.
“I suspect the first thing people will reach for is that we have a lot of money,” he said. “Ocean City is very wealthy, so all of that money filters through.”
However, Hamill maintained that he doesn’t believe this is the whole story. When it comes to staffing, WCPS has a
student-first hiring mentality. WCPS has the lowest ratio in the state of “students to student-facing adults.” This means the system is focused on employing those who work directly with children in an instructional capacity, such as paraprofessionals, teachers, school counselors, and social workers. Wallace added that it comes down to how the system opts to spend the money it has.
“There are other districts investing more than we are in students. But I think we are a shining example of, we’re taking the dollars that we’re given, and we’re reaping rewards that not only no one else is doing, but also are beyond any possible expectation,” she said. “I think it’s another example of us really taking our dollars and our board creating budgets that are focused on students, and then we’re getting results out of those students.”
Commission says yes to mural after tabling
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Nov. 21, 2025) The month-long debate over how well a somewhat fanciful mural fits into the historic downtown image the town works to maintain ended earlier this month when the Berlin Historic District Commission issued its approval.
At its meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 5, the commission voted 4-1 to allow local artist Evan Fitzgerald to depict a marsh scene on the side of the Poole Building at 10 South Main Street. The image includes a girl playing music surrounded by (mostly) native animals on the side of the Poole Building at 10 South Main Street. The sole dissenting vote was board member Mary Moore.
Fitzgerald said that the mural will likely be completed around late April, when warmer weather returns to ensure the paint dries properly.
The commission’s vote comes a month after the body initially heard the proposal from by Ivy Wells, the town’s economic and community development director, on behalf of the municipality’s Arts and Entertainment Advisory Board.
At that Oct. 1 meeting, Wells said mural, which will feature an Eastern Shore marsh scene populated by a crab, a blue heron, a young woman in a headdress playing the guitar, and a fox/deer-
like creature with antlers, strengthens the town's commitment to artistry and local talent.
Much of the historic district commission, however, had trouble connecting with the piece, and argued that the heron was too big and overpowered the space, and that the fox/deer was too “weird.”
“What catches my eye is the blue heron, where everything is so real and alive, it’s almost like somebody just put it there,” Moore said last month. “Everything else is flowing…To me, with my art eye, with my background, what I see first is the blue heron. And he looks like something you buy at a garden center.”
Fitzgerald, who was watching the initial meeting from home, showed up in person to defend his artwork. Fitzgerald said he was depicting animals acting in a human-esque manner. He added that the large heron was a result of playing with scale to elicit an emotional response from the painting's viewers.
The conversation became strained, and the commission opted to delay the vote until the Nov. 5 session. Wells told commission members she understands they are trying to prioritize Berlin’s historic appeal.
“I care deeply about Berlin’s historic district and I have great respect for everything that you do,” she said. “We wouldn't be where we are today if we
didn’t have a historic district and a historic district commission. I have the utmost respect for everything that you do and I appreciate the job that you do; it isn’t easy so thank you for doing this for our town.”
The commission members expressed their positions to Wells, Fitzgerald, building owner Mike Poole, along with a packed audience.
Norman Bunting, the commission chair, asked Fitzgerald if he had modified his design since the original request as he suggested he might be willing to do.
Fitzgerald replied that his design remained the same.
“I took the time and I started removing things, and honestly, I was just a little confused as to how much of what I put into it I would need to take out to make it not harmful to the town,” Fitzgerald said. “I wasn’t sure how much needed to be removed, so I needed clarification on what about the marsh scene and music being played, and local animals are offensive.”
Commission member Carol Rose jumped in, saying that she has never had
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
A mock up of Evan Fitzgerald’s design is pictured. The artist will paint the mural around April.
City to purchase 12 vehicles for police use
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Nov. 21, 2025) The Ocean City Council this week agreed to purchase 12 additional vehicles to satisfy the terms of a three-year contract with the police union.
On Monday, council members approved the purchase of 11 Ford Explorer Interceptors and one pickup truck using $975,000 in unassigned fund balance. The vehicles, staff report, will be added to a fleet of cruisers used by members of the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Lodge 10.
“As part of the most recent police contract, we are going to be providing takehome vehicles to each of the members of the FOP, and we have worked diligently
to come up with a list of the number of vehicles that we need to purchase and arrived at 36,” Budget Director Jennie Knapp told the council this week. “So we have 12 in the FY26 budget, and tonight – because of the timing of locating the vehicles, upfitting the vehicles and purchasing equipment that goes into the vehicles, like computers and radios – we would like to go ahead and purchase another 12 in FY26 and then put the final 12 in FY27.”
Over the summer, the Town of Ocean City finalized a new collective bargaining agreement with the police union, ending a months-long dispute over what was reported to be pay and benefits. The agreement, ratified in July, includes salary increases and a phased-in, take-home
vehicle program, in which each sworn officer will be provided a police cruiser for professional and limited personal use.
Officials report that 36 cruisers will need to be purchased to provide all current FOP members with a take-home vehicle, and 12 have already been funded in the current year’s budget. However, Knapp told city leaders this week the time was now to purchase the next dozen.
“It was going to be budgeted in the future,” she explained. “But we feel it is prudent to do it now instead of in the future, so that they are actually upfitted and ready to go under the terms of the contract.”
Knapp said the purchase would include 11 Ford Explorer Interceptors and
one pickup truck, which will replace a vehicle that was totaled in an accident last week. She added that the unassigned fund balance – an account for money that is not dedicated for a specific use –would be used to purchase the vehicles.
With no further questions, the City Council on Monday voted 6-0, with Councilman Jake Mitrecic absent, to approve the purchase of 12 police vehicles using $975,000 in unassigned fund balance.
The $975,000 not only includes the purchase price of the vehicles, but also the cost of upfitting those vehicles. An estimated $303,864 would be used to install lights and sirens, while another $110,400 would be used to purchase radios, laptops and other equipment.
Historic Comm. approves new Berlin mural
Continued from Page 68
a problem with the design, and that she was willing to approve the request at last month’s meeting.
“I personally didn’t think that you should be asked in any way, shape, fashion, or form to change your work,” Rose said.
Commission members John Holloway, Lisa Doyle, and Laura Stearns agreed, arguing that the building is not historic, art is subjective, and that the new mural would cover up the structure’s exterior, which is unappealing due to its cinder block appearance.
Moore voted against the proposal, saying that she would have preferred to see a painting that would offer some historical significance, aligning with the Town of Berlin’s old-school charm and architecture. Moore added that, although the building itself may not be historic, it is still situated in the historic district.
“I would have liked to have seen something in the mural that gave me a sense of history, whatever the artist felt, how he wanted to create something like that,” she said. “There are other ways to incorporate something that says, this is Berlin, Maryland, this is a historic town…My whole issue with it is that, as interesting as it is, it in no way gives me any historical significance, so for that reason, I feel negatively about thinking that this would be perfect on that wall… We are trying to keep the standards of Berlin pristine.”
Additionally, the commission members addressed what they claimed was hateful rhetoric directed toward the group on social media following the body’s concerns of the mural in October.
Stearns defended the committee’s role, arguing that the team needs to ask questions and review each request carefully to ensure the town’s historic aesthetic remains intact.
“I would just like to take a minute to explain why we’re here, mostly because of the negativity on social media towards
this commission, which was very disheartening,” she said. “We’re supposed to keep Berlin charming. When I look at the photos of the Atlantic Hotel and walk out front, the town looks the same as it did in the 1890s. And that’s what's making this town so successful…The more we add, the more we’re taking away from what we already have. That’s the way I feel, and that’s the way I’m here.”
Rose added that each request must be carefully examined to determine if an addition aligns with Berlin’s mission of preserving its Victorian beauty. She continued, arguing that she remembers in the 1960s and 1970s when Berlin was run down and the storefronts were empty.
“I cannot allow that to happen again,” she said.
Poole said that, as the owner of the building, he is in favor of the mural and believes it will add to Berlin’s value.
“This town means a lot to me,” he said. “We wouldn’t do something that’s against what the town wants. [Fitzgerald’s] painting is beautiful, and it's different. There are going to be so many people who are going to want to stand in front of that and take a picture.”
Developer to convert office building into condominiums
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Nov. 21, 2025) A plan to redevelop an office building that looked like a big beach house into condominium units received approval from a resort commission this week.
On Tuesday, the Ocean City Planning Commission voted to accept the site plan for a condominium development at 8606 Coastal Highway. De-
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.
veloper Jonathan Selway said an existing office building on the property (once home to the accounting firm Faw Casson & Co.) would be converted into three residential units, each with four bedrooms.
“As you all know, this building has been here a long time,” he told the commission this week. “I’ve personally always admired the building. So our main goal with this project was to reuse the building for something different than office space. From a development standpoint, offices don’t really work right now. We also feel like this is a highly residential neighborhood. It’s zoned residential, it makes sense as residential.”
Zoning Administrator Sabrina Hecht told commission members the developer was seeking approval to convert the existing commercial space into residential. She noted the application laid out plans for three units, each with three stories, four bedrooms and three parking spaces.
However, Hecht pointed out that the developer was seeking a waiver of an eight-foot sidewalk requirement, as it would disrupt landscaping currently placed in the setback abutting Coastal Highway. Officials noted the request was supported by the fact that removing plants would impact stormwater management criteria.
“Per engineering, if this was at a cross street that had a crosswalk they would want wider sidewalks to encourage pedestrian circulation,” Planning and Community Development Director George Bendler added. “But this is not located at a lighted intersection with a crosswalk. So we would be okay with this not having a wider sidewalk.”
Officials also noted that the developer would not consolidate existing lot lines, as he had plans to develop a second phase of condominium units on an adjacent lot in the near future. As part of that second phase, Selway said he would be moving a lot line between the two projects.
“It’s somewhat speculative at this point, so we can’t really do phase two until we get to a certain point with phase one,” he said of his plans. “But we are planning it currently.”
In a 6-0 vote, with Commissioner Tony Butta absent, the planning commission approved Selway’s site plan, with the condition that lot lines would be consolidated prior to a certificate of occupancy being issued. Two members, Chair Joe Wilson and Commissioner Palmer Gillis, praised Selway’s efforts to redevelop and reimagine a longstanding building.
“I think it’s a great repurposing,” Gillis said.
“Overall, we’re trying to keep the details of the existing building, or recreate them,” Selway explained.
A rendering of the office building renovation into condominium units was shown to the planning commission this week.
Holiday activities on tap for Ocean Pines community
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Nov. 21, 2025) The Ocean Pines Recreation and Parks Department is rolling out a full lineup of holiday activities this season, offering residents opportunities to get into the festive spirit.
One of the efforts is the P.E.P. Club Christmas Wish Tree now on display in the Ocean Pines Community Center lobby. The P.E.P. Club is a social group for adults with developmental disabilities. They meet monthly at the center. Community members are invited to choose a tag from the tree, purchase and wrap the gift listed, and return it with the tag by Dec. 15.
Ocean Pines Association homeowners will also have the chance to help brighten the neighborhood through the annual Ocean Pines outdoor decorating program, called Light Up the Pines. Participation is free, and the first 25 homes to register will receive “goodies” from Choptank Electric Cooperative, according to the recreation department. Furthermore, homes that are registered by Dec. 12 will be entered into a drawing to win one of three $50 bill credits from Choptank. Those interested should email their name, address, and phone number to info@oceanpines.org or call 410-641-7717, ext. 3014. Participants should also submit a photo of their decorative light display for a special community holiday video.
The holiday festivities don't end there. The community will gather for the 15th Annual Hometown Christmas Tree Lighting on Saturday, Nov. 29, at White Horse Park. The festival will include tree displays sponsored and decorated by local social clubs, businesses, and families.
Santa will also make an appearance at the event. Those interested in sponsoring a tree can call 410-641-7052 or email Katie Goetzinger, event supervisor, at kgoetzinger@oceanpines.org.
OPA citizens will also have the opportunity to do some holiday shopping in the community at the annual Vendor Fair on Saturday, Dec. 6, from 8 a.m. to noon at the Ocean Pines Community Center gym. Admission is free. Shoppers can browse a variety of gift items, including custom art, tumblers, and candles. Additionally, to create some Christmas magic for Ocean Pines' youngest residents, children are invited to send letters to Santa by placing written notes in the red mailbox at the community center between Nov. 25 and Dec. 20. The notes should include the child’s name and address to receive a reply.
Rounding out the season is a bus trip to Washington, D.C., to see the Washington Capitals take on the Detroit Red Wings on Saturday, Dec. 20. Tickets are $120 per person, which includes transportation and game admission. The bus departs the Community Center at 8 a.m. for the 12:30 p.m. game. Seats may be reserved by calling Ocean Pines Recreation and Parks at 410-641-7052.
Opinions
Police depts. go after each other
Worcester County Sheriff Matt Crisafulli came up short Tuesday after his surprising mid-year pitch for a pay raise for deputies. His justifications for this increase notwithstanding, government departments and agencies don’t get a second crack at an adopted budget because their leadership feels they need more in the middle of a budget year.
Besides, his request for more money avoids the real issue: every law enforcement agency in the region is having less recruiting success than it would like and is engaged in a bidding war for what local talent is available.
Last year, the Ocean Pines Police Department raised its starting pay for trained officers to “the highest on the Eastern Shore.” And that was true until this year, when Ocean City’s department surpassed that number with its new contract. Now, Crisafulli wants to one-up that amount because he has people moving to the Ocean City department.
The question everyone ought to be asking is whether “more” will ever be “enough” when there is a national decline in qualified applicants and local outfits are intent on cannibalizing each other?
Research by multiple police-related institutions suggests that pay and the type of work police now do are the reasons for that. Further, the International Association of Police Chiefs has found that most agencies are operating at 91% of their authorized staffing levels.
Even if this was all pay-related, and it isn’t, it remains that all enterprises, both government and private, reach a point where bringing in more money to cover increasing costs is hard to do.
And that’s when police officers, deputies, elected officials and taxpayers will have to decide not necessarily what they can afford, but what they want to afford. That’s a conversation that can and should take place any time of year, and with local departments beating on each other, it looks like the sooner that happens, the better.
PUBLIC EYE
Ninth Circle of Duh
When I heard someone the other day say American beef prices were exceptionally high because Mexican rustlers were stealing our cattle and taking them back over the border, it occurred to me that we have finally entered the Ninth Circle of Duh, which is the worst level of dumbness so far identified by people who track that sort of thing.
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By Stewart Dobson
Essentially, the first Circle of Duh is like when I said, “Really?” before realizing that someone I’m close to was just kidding when she told me that “Cheezio” was Spanish for cheese.
The Ninth Circle of Duh, on the other hand, is reserved for people who buy that cattle rustling explanation as well as the people who were:
Shocked, SHOCKED, I tell you, when it turned out that legalized sports betting actually did cause some athletes to — Gasp! — cheat. They were STUNNED when a pair of Cleveland Guardian baseball players were accused of letting gamblers know beforehand what kind of pitch the pitcher was going to throw.
“What?” they asked. “You’re telling us they did this for money? Wow. I never thought something like that would ever happen.”
I know I was (not) caught off guard when some NBA people were accused of committing hanky-panky. I mean, what’s going to fall next in the sporting world? Are we destined to be plagued by corrupt curling, rigged rhythmic gymnastics, felonious fencing? Where will it end?
One place world class stupidity is not going
to cease and desist would be at the Mexican/American border, where an American traveling from Mexico attempted to hide a pair of protected Mexican parakeets in his underpants.
Sure, you’re asking where the real Duh moment is, aside from this being your routine case of a guy stuffing birds down his pants.
The Duh moment occurred when the guy, set upon by a couple of border agents, tried to explain that what what looked like a topographical problem down below the equator was a natural occurrence.
Incidentally, the parakeets had been sedated before going nighty-nighty in his tighty-whities, so the smuggler didn’t have to worry about the perils of perching.
And finally, the dumbest thing I’ve heard in a long, long time is that researchers have concluded that smoking or consuming cannabis could result in a reduced consumption of alcohol.
Well, DUH. This is hardly a news bulletin to anyone in the bar business, where it’s long been known that people getting high cuts into their desire to drink.
The following conversation explains why: Non-weed user: “Hey, want to go out and get drunk?”
Weed user: “.... ... .... zzzs... what?”
Non-weed user: “I said, want to go out and get drunk?”
Weed user: .... ... .... zzzs... what?
Non-weed user: “I said ... Just forget it. I’ll go out by myself.”
Weed user: “ What? Ha. Hahaha. Hahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha. What?”
This, incidentally, is a whole different level of duh, because it’s temporary and self-imposed.
Between the Lines
By Steve Green
Ocean City Council President Matt James has a point when he criticized officially tying the room tax increase directly to wastewater problems facing Worcester County. While it was suspected early on there may be some sort of quid pro quo requested by the county in exchange for the required unanimous vote, it was odd to see it formally included in the resolution.
“The two shouldn't be tied together, in my opinion …,” said James, who voted against the wastewater measure on the city’s agenda. “I’ll be very blunt. It feels like the county is holding us hostage … If we want the room tax increase, it feels like you're holding this out there, like, ‘hey, give us your sewer, and we’ll vote for the room tax,’ and I don't think that's fair.” It’s an understandable point, but the county jumped on some leverage. After all, the room tax increase means $5 million in new revenue for Ocean City (and about $360,000 for the county), but the county has an emergency on its own hands in West Ocean City. It’s fair to state Worcester County will be paying $780,386 for the additional flow from the city to the county, but it’s also important to make clear Ocean City is bailing out the county because infrastructure work at the failing plants would be astronomical. The deal shows how much the room tax revenue means to the resort.
In the county resolution passed this week, it makes it clear – the commissioners will vote unanimously for the room tax hike so long as Ocean City provides the sewer flow. The resolution’s wording was unique and was not done for previous room tax adjustments. Commissioner Joe Mitrecic was with James on the issue, saying, “I thought the resolution was changed on the say-so of a couple commissioners – it wasn’t voted on by us. To tie the town of Ocean City’s sewer ‘gift,’ I’ll call it, to this resolution was wrong. We should trust in Ocean City to do the right thing – they offered it. I think it made us look bad, to be honest with you.”
This situation is all about the outcome. How the details, discussions and agreements were made to get to this point may be questionable, but the end result is a positive. It was nice to see Commissioners Chip Bertino and Jim Bunting move past their previous hesitation with a room tax increase on Tuesday. If the deal hashed out privately had to be included in the resolution, then so be it. The stink eyes given to the resolution wording, however, are also understandable. It needed to be done to get the required unanimous vote. If the measure could have passed without a full consensus, the resolution would have never happened. Bunting said after the vote, “I'm not always right and maybe I took too hard of a stance. I still didn't like it, but at the same time, it was going to benefit the people, residents of Worcester County, or even your municipalities with their sewer plants and such.” Bertino said, “You should never be in a hurry to make a mistake. I took the time to do the due diligence that was necessary for me to vote yes. I'm very pleased with the outcome and I hope that everybody else is. Regardless of what some naysayers and radio personalities and the media thought, there was a lot going on behind the scenes that they were not privy to – nor should they be privy to. But I'm glad of the outcome today.”
***
It was a rough Tuesday morning for Worcester County Sheriff Matt Crisafulli, but recent history was not on his side. Mid-budget year requests are often frowned upon by elected officials, and the two requests Crisafulli pitched ultimately did not move forward.
As Crisafulli was to present his first proposal to increase pay, Commissioner Caryn Abbott motioned to delay the ask until the next meeting for more information to be gathered. Crisafulli said he was prepared to answer any questions, but the motion to table passed unanimously. From the information included in the public packet, the sheriff’s office wants to immediately increase a deputy’s starting salary from $63,132 to $66,210 to improve hiring and retention. The current budget included pay grade increases for current deputies and a $7,000 jump in starting officer pay.
It was clear, however, the internal affairs investigator position ($167,000 in total compensation) was denied in a 3-4 vote because of the mid-budget timing. Crisafulli presented his reasoning, explaining like sized departments have at least one specialist and there have been 60-plus incidents in recent years where an IA investigator was needed. Though he had his own concerns with the position, Commissioner Joe Mitrecic motioned to support the mid-year allocation with support from Caryn Abbott and Eric Fiori and opposition by Chip Bertino, Jim Bunting, Ted Elder and Diana Purnell.
Purnell seemed to hit the points shared by her colleagues when she said, “This is not a little bit of money we’re talking about. This is a lot. We need to know what every department is going to need. But this, you want us to add this in now? I start questioning asking to bring things like this to us now, before we start the budget process. I’m not comfortable with this.”
Riddle Farm treatment plant back online seven years later
(Nov. 21, 2025) Following a successful renovation and repair project, the Riddle Farm Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) is once again fully operational. The rehabilitation project, which got underway with M2 in June 2024, came in within budget and on time.
“A big thanks goes out to our phenomenal team who did a knockout job getting the work done,” Public Works Director Dallas Baker said. “Also, none of this would have been possible without the support of the Worcester County Commissioners.”
Project partners include Public Works Water and Wastewater, George, Miles and Buhr (GMB), Veolia, and M2 Construction.
Clogging issues associated with filter membrane cassettes installed in 2017
resulted in a significant reduction in the WWTP’s ability to treat wastewater. Repeated attempts to alter the treatment process and reduce membrane clogging over the years were unsuccessful.
From 2018 to November 2025, crews were required to pump and haul effluent from the Riddle Farm WWTP to the Ocean Pines WWTP and West Ocean City sewer system to be treated. That temporary, yet costly, treatment method stopped 10 days ago. All effluent generated within the Riddle Farm Sanitary Service Area is once again being treated onsite at the Riddle Farm WWTP.
“We sincerely appreciate the public’s support while we worked to get the Riddle Farm WWTP up and running again,” Baker said.
OC scores high credit rating before December bond sale
(Nov. 21, 2025) The Town of Ocean City’s plan to issue $46 million in general obligation bonds to finance capital projects has resulted in a review of local government’s financial circumstances by major credit rating services Standard & Poor’s and Fitch.
The good news for Ocean City is that both firms found that the Town of Ocean City had “very high credit quality.”
Standard & Poor’s last week reaffirmed its AA+ rating for Ocean City government because of Ocean City's
“strong, albeit seasonal, local economy and consistently strong budgetary performance, leading to strong fund balance.”
Fitch, meanwhile, rated Ocean City “AA,” because of its “financial resilience driven by high levels of revenue and expenditure control and Fitch's expectations that the town will maintain unrestricted reserves above 7.5% of spending.”
The bonds will be offered for sale on Dec. 4.
Judgment at Nuremberg, the trials of WWII
By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer
This week, 80 years ago, the trial of the 20th Century began (no, it wasn’t O.J. Simpson!) The trial of the 20th Century occurred in Nuremberg, Germany, when the victorious United Nations brought the leaders of the German military, government and economy to account for their role in starting a war so devastating that even today, 80 years later, the world feels its effects.
Justice Robert H. Jackson, chief American prosecutor (portrayed by Alec Baldwin in the 2000 TNT TV movie “Nuremberg,” and by Michael Shannon in the new movie “Nuremberg”) opened the trial, on Nov. 20, 1945 by delivering the prosecution’s opening statement. It is considered one of history’s greatest speeches. The justice began by saying, that, “The wrongs which we seek to condemn and punish have been so calculated, so malignant, and so devastating, that civilization cannot tolerate their being ignored, because it cannot survive their being repeated. That four great nations, flushed with victory and stung with injury, stay the hand of vengeance and voluntarily submit their captive enemies to the judgment of the law, is one of the most significant tributes that Power has ever paid to Reason.”
The Allies then began presenting their damning evidence against the defendants. When films of the concentration camp victims were shown, Hans Fritzche, chief of the Home Press Division and head of the Radio Division of the Propaganda Ministry, crumpled in his seat. Fritz Sauckel, Reich governor and Gauleiter of Thuringia and general plenepotentiary for [slave] Labor Deployment, shuddered, and Walther Funk, Reichsminister for Economic Affairs, president of the Reichsbank and member of the Central Planning Board, wept.
By the end of the trial, SS Obergeruppenführer Hans Frank, governor-general of that part of Poland which was not incorporated into the German Reich, said that, “A thousand years will pass and still this guilt of Germany will not have been erased.”
On the other hand, there was Luftwaffe Chief Reichsmarshal Hermann Göring (portrayed by Brian Cox in the TNT movie “Nuremberg,” for which he won an Emmy and a Gemini, and by Russel Crowe in the new movie “Nuremberg”), who was the highestranking military, and political, leader remaining from the Third Reich. He was a bit more optimistic saying, “In 50 or 60 years, there will be statues of
EXPERIENCE YOU CAN TRUST
Hermann Göring all over Germany!”
The prisoners were kept isolated. After Robert Ley, head of the German Labor Front, (played by Tom Keune in the new movie “Nuremberg”) hung himself with a towel, their personal effects were confiscated at night. Until the trial, they were forbidden to talk to one another. To avoid the Reichsmarshal from dominating the rest of the defendants, he was forced to eat alone. The prisoners were restricted to a daily caloric intake of 1,800.
When the Reichsmarshal surrendered himself to the Allies, he was a bloated, drug addicted, pompous, disgusting piece of humanity. But, by the time of the trial, he had lost 60 pounds and kicked his addiction.
On Sept.1, 1946, the court adjourned, having received more than 3,000 tons of evidence. The court reconvened on Sept. 30, and began delivering its verdicts. It concluded that portion of the trial the next day.
Ambassador von Papen, Halmar Schacht and Direktor Fritzsche were acquitted.
The following were sentenced to die by hanging: Reichsmarshal Göring; Foreign Minister Joachim von Ribbentrop; Julius Streicher, founder and publisher of anti-Semitic Der Stürmer
newspaper; Gauleiter Sauckel; Governor-General Frank; General Alfred Jodl, Chief of Operations Division of the OKW; Field Marshal Wilhelm Keitel, Chief Oberkonnando der Wehrmacht; Wilhelm Frick, Reichsminister of the Interior, 1930-1943 and Reichprotektor of Bohemia and Moravia, 1943-45. Obergeruppenführer und General der Polizei und Waffen-SS, Dr. Ernst Kaltenbrunner, Chief of the Reich Main Security Office; Alfred Rosenberg, Head of the Foreign Policy office of the Nazi Party (the Party’s chief racial theorist) and Reichsminister for the occupied Eastern territories; Arthur Seyß-Inquart, Reichskommissar of the Netherlands and Reichsminister Without Portfolio, and whom Hitler had named as Foreign Minister in his will.
Martin Bormann, chief of the party chancellory and party secretary, in absentia. Großadmiral Erich Ræder, head of Kriegsmarine until 1943 (played by Mesterházy Gyula in the new movie “Nuremberg”), and Deputy Führer Rudolph Hess (played by Andreas Pietschmann in the new movie “Nuremberg”), were sentenced to life in prison.
Albert Speer, Reichsminister of Armaments and War Production, and Baldur von Schirach, Gauleiter of Vienna, were each sentenced to serve 20 years in
WORLD WAR II
prison. Baron Konstantin von Neurath, Reichsprotektor of Bohemia and Moravia 1939 -1943, was sentenced to serve 15 years. Großadmiral Adm. Karl Dönitz, chief of the Kriegsmarine from 1943, and Hitler’s successor, (played by Peter Jordan in the new movie “Nuremberg”) was sentenced to serve 10 years.
The execution date was set for Oct. 16, 1946. Master Sargent John C. Woods, an experienced hangman, was brought in for the job. The requests for a firing squad by Reichsmarshal Göring, Field Marshal Keitel and Gen. Jodl, which they considered more dignified and their right as soldiers, were refused.
In the early morning of Oct. 16, 1946, the condemned were removed from their cells, one by one, and led to the gymnasium in the Nuremberg Prison, where three gallows had been erected. Although there were reports that many of the executions were botched, the post execution photographs of the condemned belie this.
The first to the gallows, at 1:11 a.m. was Foreign Minister von Ribbentrop, who said, “God protect Germany. God have mercy on my soul. My final wish is that Germany should recover her unity and that, for the sake of peace, there should be understanding between East and West. I wish peace to the world.”
Field Marshal Keitel followed the foreign minister two minutes later. His last words were, “I call on God Almighty to have mercy on the German people. More than 2,000,000 German soldiers went to
their death for the Fatherland before me.
I follow now my sons - all for Germany.”
Governor-General Frank, who had recently converted to Catholicism, entered the death chamber with a smile saying, “I am thankful for the kind treatment during my captivity and I ask God to accept me with mercy.”
Obergruppenführer Dr. Kaltenbrunner’s last words were,“I have loved my German people and my Fatherland with a warm heart. I’ve done my duty by the laws of my people and I am sorry this time my people were led by men who were not soldiers and that crimes were committed of which I have no knowledge. I fought honorably. Germany, good luck.”
Reichsminister Rosenberg was the fifth man hanged and the only one to make no statement. He was followed by 69-year-old Reichsminister Frick. He stumbled as he climbed the steps to the gallows. He said, “Long live eternal Germany.”
As Herr Streicher approached the gallows, he yelled, “Heil Hitler!” After he ascended the gallows he said, “The Bolsheviks will hang you all one day!” After the hood was placed over his head, he said, “Adele, my dear wife!”
Gauleiter Sauckel went to his death protesting his innocense.
General Jodl’s last words were, “I greet you, my eternal Germany.”
The last man to be hanged, at 2:45 a.m., Reichskommissar Seyss-Inquart,
had said at the time of his sentencing, “Death by hanging . . . well, in view of the whole situation, I never expected anything different! It’s all right.” At the time of his execution, he said, “I hope that this execution is the last act of the tragedy of the second world war and that the lesson taken from this world war will be that peace and understanding should exist between people. I believe in Germany.” One hour and 34 minutes elapsed from start to finish.
Two avoided the court’s death sentence. Martin Bormann had been tried, convicted and sentenced in absentia, the victors unaware that he had been killed attempting to escape from Berlin.
The other was the Reichmarshal. About two-and-a-half hours before his appointment with the hangman, he bit down on a cyanide capsule. The picture taken of him lying in his bunk, dead, was taken by a young soldier from Salisbury — the late Hon. Alfred T. Truitt Jr. Next week: Searching For Herr Gustav Mr. Wimbrow writes from Ocean City, Maryland, where he practices law representing those persons accused of criminal and traffic offenses, and those persons who have suffered a personal injury through no fault of their own. He can be contacted at wimbrowlaw@gmail.com
The Ocean City Christian Ministers Association Invites Everyone To Our
Community’s Thanksgiving Service
Sunday, November 23rd, 6:00pm
First Presbyterian Church, 1301 Philadelphia Avenue Service will include…praise, worship songs, hymns, Thanksgiving testimonies and a brief message.
Please bring packaged food goods, paper products, and funds for the offering, which will be used to help the needy in our community. There will be desserts & fellowship after the service. This is a great opportunity to give thanks to God. We hope you can attend.
For information call 410-289-9340
JOSHUA SCOTT MICHNICK
Berlin
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Joshua Scott Michnick, who was born on Feb. 25, 1998, and sadly left us on Nov. 5, 2025, in Owings Mills, Maryland, at the age of 27.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Joshua’s name to the Worcester County Humane Society, honoring his lifelong affection for animals and commitment to their well-being.
Joshua’s warm heart and gentle spirit will forever be remembered.
summer 2026 with a proper celebration of life to follow on the beach.
In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged to: the Kentucky Health Justice Network or https://www.kentuckyhealthjusticenetwork.org/donate.html.
CHARLES L. WAITE III
Joshua was a vibrant spirit who touched the lives of everyone he met with his kindness and compassion. A graduate of Stephen Decatur High School in 2016, he further pursued his passion for psychology, earning a bachelor’s degree from Towson University.
He was currently working towards a master’s degree in psychology at McDaniel College. Prior to his educational journey, Joshua made a name for himself as the manager of Eagle Fork Vineyards in Hayesville, North Carolina, where he demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication.
Joshua had a deep love for his two beloved puppies, Fuchsia and Violet, who brought him immense joy. He was known for his willingness to help others, and his generous spirit will be greatly missed by friends, family, and the community.
He is survived by his devoted father, Dr. Lawrence Steven Michnick; his loving mother, Deanne Kendra Michnick; his cherished sister, Sarena Joanne Michnick; and his paternal grandmother, Judith Deborah Michnick. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Dr. Bruce T. Michnick; maternal grandfather, Jerry Lynn Smith; and his maternal grandmother, Joanne P. Smith.
A graveside service was held on Nov. 11, 2025, at Woodlawn Memorial Park in Easton, MD, where family and friends gathered to honor Joshua’s life and legacy.
SHARON RICHARDSON BYERS
Lexington, Kentucky
Snow Hill
Charles (Bunky) Waite, III, 63, passed away suddenly in Norwalk, Connecticut on Nov. 4, 2025.
tendee at St. Peter’s By-The-Sea Episcopal Church in Cape Neddick, Maine. Charles seasonally split his time between Maine and Maryland and once again, in 2017, was elected to the Ogunquit, Maine Board of Selectmen, serving as chairman until his own health concerns led him to resign in 2019. Additionally, Charles was an active member of the St. Aspinquid Masonic Lodge #198, York, Maine.
Sharon Richardson Byers, 79, of Lexington, Kentucky, widow of Joseph A. Byers passed away at her home on Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025. She was born to the late Isaac Stanton Richardson and Flossie Lee Spry Richardson on Oct. 30, 1946 in Salisbury, Maryland. She was a Roman Catholic and a member of St. Peter Claver Church.
Sharon loved travel and adventure as evidenced by her career as a travel agent. She and Joe owned and ran Magellan Travel in Lexington and she worked as a corporate travel agent in Florida as well.
Sharon was an active and adored member of many church and community groups, spreading her time between book clubs, bridge groups, and Bible studies. And visiting family near and far.
Sharon is survived by her two children, Amy Byers Figgs and Jace (Laura) Byers; grandchildren, Zuri Earl, Jonas Faulkner Byers and Leo J. Figgs; sister Susan R. (Jack) Eschenburg; beloved cousin Anne Palumbo; numerous nieces, nephews, and a cherished sisterhood of friends; and sidekick, Isaac, her white Labrador. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Sandy McCabe, and her stepsister, Pam Gsvind.
Services will be at St. Peter Claver Church in Lexington, Kentucky on Nov. 22. Visitation will be at 10 a.m. Services at 11 a.m. with lunch and fellowship to follow.
She will be interred in Salisbury in
He was the son of Charles L. Waite Jr and Carol Wooters Waite and the lovingly loyal grandson of Charles L. Waite Sr. and Naomi Townsend Waite.
Born in Salisbury, Maryland in 1962 and raised on the family farm in Snow Hill, Charles was a graduate of Snow Hill High School, Class of 1980 and received a bachelor of science degree in Speech and Mass Communication from Towson University, Class of 1985.
Moving to Ogunquit, Maine later in 1985, Charles began an exciting career that encompassed music, real estate, health care and ultimately becoming a leader in local politics.
Having mastered piano at an early age, Charles released two recordings of his keyboard selections and played in fine dining venues throughout New England and the US Virgin Islands developing a loyal following.
In 1989, Charles joined alcoholics anonymous and maintained sobriety the rest of his life. In 1996, Charles received his nursing degree and became a clinical specialist traveling New England and the Southeast, training surgeons on the proper methods of implanting biomedical devices for the benefit of epilepsy patients. Charles was also an advocate for patients in the ALS community assisting with treatment plans for these special individuals.
Sadly, in 2001, Charles was forced to exit the medical field after developing his own neuromuscular condition. However, always the high achiever, in 2003 Charles ran for and was elected to the Ogunquit, Maine Board of Selectmen serving as chairman for two of his three years on the Board.
In 2007, Charles returned to Snow Hill to care for his grandmother Naomi on the family farm until her death in 2009.
In 2010, Charles became a member and was confirmed in the Episcopal Church at All Hallows in Snow Hill, after previously being a member of Bates Memorial Methodist Church in Snow Hill during his youth. in 2011, Charles was appointed to the Diocesan Council of the Episcopal Diocese of Easton advising clergy on matters relating to policy changes the diocese was facing at the time and with which Charles had expertise.
Moreover, during the summer months, Charles was a regular at-
Charles spent his final years on the farm in Snow Hill always planning his next great achievement while continuing the agricultural legacy of the family farm begun by his grandparents in 1940 — with new plans for the property on the horizon.
Bunky was an incredibly talented, creative and successful self-study who never stopped learning. He took special pride in his terraced perennial and annual flower garden at home in Ogunquit.
His death is a tremendous loss for all who knew him.
Bunky is survived by his longtime companion and spouse, Daniel M. Westerlund of Snow Hill; sister Bonnie Waite Willey and husband, Charlie, of Snow Hill and niece Chelsea Elizabeth Willey.
Bunky will be sorely missed by many, having countless friends and colleagues nationwide.
A burial and celebration of life will be planned for a later date. Contributions in Charles’ memory may be made to St. Aspinquid Lodge A.F.& A.M. #198, PO Box 408, York, Maine 03909.
Arrangements and gratitude: Lawrence Funeral Home, Darien, Connecticut and City of Norwalk First Responders.
JOSEPHINE LEYDEN VARNER Ocean Pines
The family of Josephine Leyden Varner of Ocean Pines, Maryland, is deeply saddened to announce her passing on Nov. 9, 2025, at the remarkable age of 98 years young — and we do mean young.
Born in Akron, Ohio, on Aug. 28, 1927, to Frank and Catherine Duran, Josephine grew up with a quick wit, a sharp mind, and a determination that would serve her well throughout her long and lively life. After graduating from Garfield High School, she entered nursing school and proudly became a registered nurse. Josephine began her career at Akron City Hospital, where fate intervened in the form of a charming young ambulance owner, James P. Leyden, who had recently returned from World War II. The two hit it off immediately — and, after just six months, those “crazy kids” tied the knot.
Together, they raised four children while moving from Akron to Toledo, and later to Fairfax, Virginia.
Joshua Michnick
Sharon Byers
Charles Waite
Josephine Varner
Josephine paused her nursing career to raise the family but returned to the profession she loved once her children were all in school.
After James’ passing, Josephine later found love again with Richard Varner, and together they enjoyed many happy years — full of travel, laughter, and the occasional spirited debate over who was the better cook.
Josephine’s energy and zest for life were legendary. She was an ace at contract bridge, a Scrabble shark, and took immense pride in her uncanny ability to outscore, outthink, and occasionally outbluff just about everyone she played with.
Her children learned early on that “letting Mom win” was never an option — because she didn’t need the help. Whether it was cards, crossword puzzles, or any game that rewarded cleverness and vocabulary, Josephine was in it to win it — and usually did. She is predeceased by her parents, her brother Frank, her first husband James, her youngest daughter Tracy, and her second husband Richard Varner.
Josephine is survived by her loving children Noreen Leyden, Beth Ridgeway (Dale), and Jay Leyden (Sara); her adored grandchildren Nicholas Ridgeway (Sarah), Katie Leyden, Jack Leyden, and Connor Leyden, Barry Ridgeway (Natalie), great grandchildren Lucy and Isabelle Ridgeway, her extended Varner family (children and
grandchildren), as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, and her three faithful granddogs.
A memorial service and celebration of Josephine’s long, full, and joy-filled life will be announced at a later date. The family invites everyone who knew her to share stories, laughter, and perhaps a friendly game of bridge or Scrabble in her honor — but be warned: she’ll be watching from above to make sure you play fair.
HAROLD C. EARLS
Pittsville
Harold C. Earls, 81, of Pittsville, passed away peacefully at his home on Oct. 15, 2025.
Born in Corbin, Kentucky, Harold was the son of Lee Albert Earls and Benna Lela (Stanfifered) Earls. From humble beginnings, he built an extraordinary life anchored in service, adventure, and deep devotion to his family.
Harold proudly served 21 years in the United States Navy as a submariner. An expert in torpedoes and submarine launches, he took great pride in his work and the inspection detail he performed.
His Navy career took him around the world, and it was on the beaches of Waikiki, Hawaii, that he met the love of his life, Leilani. Together, they
raised their children while traveling the globe and embracing the unique lifestyle of a military family.
After retiring from the Navy, Harold continued his dedication to hard work and precision with General Electric before fully retiring. He later relocated his family to the beaches of Ocean City, Maryland, where he served as the general manager of Bradley on the Bay and the Golden Sands Motel. His steady leadership and warm presence left a lasting impact on colleagues, friends, and the community.
Harold is proceeded in death by his wife, Leilani Earls. He is survived by his children Michael and his spouse, a Stephanie Earls, and Kathleen and her spouse, Robert Morris.
He’s also survived by six cherished grandchildren, Robin and Clayton Earls as well as Nathan, Zachary, Elizabeth, and Abigail Morris. His family was his greatest pride, and his legacy
lives on through them.
Cremation followed his passing. A graveside service at Arlington National Cemetery will be held at a later date. Letters of condolence may be sent to the family at www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home, Berlin, MD.
RUAN G. HARBOUR
Ocean City
Ruan G. Harbour, 71, of Ocean City, passed away on Nov. 9, 2025 at the Stansell House.
Born in Suffolk, Virginia, to George and Merlen Lassiter on Oct. 31, 1954, she was an only child.
She moved to Ocean City, Md. in 1978 and worked in the hotel industry. She is a past president of the HMRA.
After her work in the hotel, she went into furniture sales and retired in
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Harold C. Earls
Continued from Page 77
2019. She married James W. Harbour on Oct. 6, 1990. She enjoyed traveling to the Caribbean with her husband. She was active with her husband with the Elks and enjoyed traveling to the Grand Lodge conventions in different states.
There will be a celebration of life after the first of the year.
GERALD J. SIBISKI SR. Berlin
Gerald J. Sibiski, Sr., of Berlin, Maryland, passed away peacefully in Phillipsburg, New Jersey, on Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025.
Born on April 14, 1939, in Baltimore, Maryland, Gerald was the son of the late Alexander Sibiski and Madeline Welsch. He was a proud graduate of Mount St. Joseph High School and Loyola University.
Gerald worked for many years at
AT&T as an electrical engineer, retiring in 1990. Following his retirement, he continued working at SherwinWilliams.
A man of strong faith and deep integrity, Gerald was also a proud U.S. Army veteran who served during the Vietnam War. He was an avid fan of both the Baltimore Orioles and the Baltimore Ravens.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Warren Hills Memorial Home. To send an online condolence, please visit www.warrenhillsmemorialhome.com
Gerald is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Connie; his devoted children, Gerald “Skip” Sibiski, Jr. and Sheri Jost (Charlie); his sister, Evonne Goetzel; and three cherished grandchildren, Kirby and Beckham Sibiski, and Skyley Jost.
In addition to his parents, Gerald was predeceased by his brother, Donald Sibiski.
HARRIET ANN ROACH
Harriet Ann Roach, 81, departed this life and entered her eternal home on Sept. 19, 2025, surrounded by those she loved the most. She was born on Dec. 7 1943, in Chester, Pennsylvania to Harriet Clara and Charles Merrill Richardson.
Mom Mom lived her life on her terms. She was an only child who loved others like she was part of the biggest family. She was a phenomenal mother who raised her four boys on her own. She worked tirelessly, 2 or 3 jobs at a time to take
care of her family until Pop Pop Allen Roach came into her life.
Anyone who knew Mom Mom and called her friend became part of her family. She continued to work, and the thought of retirement never entered her mind because her grandchildren were her world. Harriet worked many jobs in her lifetime but was blessed enough to work for Paul and Mary Buchness for over 40 years, with ending her career at the Del Tech cafeteria. She loved her best friends John and Annie Bamforth.
She had a special place in her heart for all her kids, grandkids, great grandkids, nieces, nephews, and her “adopted” work family.
She loved to travel with her family. She frequented Hawaii, Las Vegas, Pennsylvania, Florida, near or far, she was always ready to go! Great Wolf Lodge, Dutch Wonderland, Six Flags, Disney World, and the Grand Canyon were just some of the places she loved to take her grandkids.
She always had a wise word or a wise crack for you, even if you didn’t ask for it, she let you have it. Mom Mom was a straight shooter and a hard worker who had a tender heart and loving soul.
There were so many loved ones waiting for her in Heaven. Her sons Michael and Robert Chester, Pop Pop Allen Roach, Tony and Pappy C. Her nephews Kevin Chester and Wayne Bradley and so many others.
Mom Mom will be dearly missed by the ones she left behind: her sons and their wives, Christopher and Nadia, and Phillip and Christina Chester; her grandchildren Cory Armbrecht, Michael Sky Chester, Caitie Barnwell, Robbie Robertson and Claudia, Nathan, Joshua, and Cloe Chester, Shiloh and Emily Chester, and Skyler Chester; her great-grandchildren Oliver, Julian and Michael Sky Jr. Chester and Jackson Bond. Her nieces and nephews Tracey and Mick Chester and his family, and Zack, Mason, and Alex Roach.
$1,845.
There are so many loved ones who miss her presence, too many to mention. Mom Mom’s legacy is our destiny. We cannot tell our story without telling hers. She has helped shape the destiny of many generations to come.
Please join us in celebrating her life and her birthday on Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, from 10 a.m.-1pm at Del Tech in the cafeteria dining area located at 21179 College Dr., Georgetown, Delaware. Brunch will be provided by The Lighthouse Cove.
OBITUARY
NOTICES
Obituary Notices cost $50 per week for Print and Online Publications. E-mail: editor@octodaydispatch.com Mail: 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 Fax: 410-723-6511
Harriet A. Roach
Gerald Sibiski Sr
Sports & Recreation
Decatur falls in playoffs to Guilford, 28-14
By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer
(Nov. 21, 2025) In front of a packed house at The Guilford Park stadium, two titans faced off last Friday in the 3A South Region second round football game. The Guilford Panthers ended Stephen Decatur’s season, 28-14.
In the first quarter after four minutes of play, Panther Tyler Lee made a rushing touchdown from the oneyard line and Edduan Perez added the extra point for the early advantage.
A determined Stephen Decatur team entered the field and took possession of the ball on downs at the 19-yard line. Vernon DeShields III made a rushing touchdown, and Blake Wallace made it throw the uprights tying the score for a nail-biting quarter. With the clock at seven minutes in the second quarter, Johnny Hobgood threw a 25-yard pass to wideout Brody Lynch for a touchdown. Wallace made the last point of the game for Stephen Decatur making the score 14-7 in favor of the Seahawks. The Panthers struck back with less than a minute on the clock with a touchdown, a pass form Ayar Reed-Wright. With the score tied at 14-14 at the half, the Panthers started the third quarter with emotion, as Reed-Wright threw a 7yard pass and scored two minutes into the quarter, moving the score to 21-14.
In the fourth quarter, the Panthers struck again and received the point after for a final score of 28-14 ending the Seahawks season. Decatur won back-to-back state championships in 2023 and 2024. Conference honors
All Bayside First Team: Brandon Hamm, offensive line; Brett Schulz, defensive line; and Jhysier Purnell, defensive utility player.
All Bayside Second Team Defense: Joe Johnson, defensive line; Brookes Waters, linebacker; Jyysier Purnell, linebacker; Brian Chester, defensive back; Seamus Orth, defensive line; and Turon Davis, defensive back.
All Bayside Second Team Offense: Kyle Mumford, running back; Brett Schulz, tight end; Johnny Hobgood, quarterback; Brian Chester, wide receiver; Blake Wallace, kicker.
All Bayside Honorable Mention Offense: Matthew Stanley, offensive line; Jaxon Archer, wide receiver; Seth Hollinger, offensive line; Brody Lynch, wide receiver; Bo Gehrig,
wide receiver; Jack Bradley, offensive line; and Declan Horan, offensive line.
All Bayside Honorable Mention Defense: Robert Bowen, defensive line; Gio Smith, linebacker; Brennan Wim, defensive back; Cole Muir, defensive line; and Vernon Deshields, safety.
All Bayside Honorable Mention Special Teams: Declan Horan, long snapper, and Johnny Hobgood, punter.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
Among the players named to the All-Bayside teams announced last week were quarterback Johnny Hobgood (second team offense), Kyle Mumford (second team offense) and Brett Schulz (first team for defensive line and second team for tight end). The three are pictured in a game last month.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Worcester Prep last month presented its middle school boys and girls fall sports awards. Above left, seated from left, are Vivi Grinestaff, coach’s award girls soccer; Haley Hanna, most improved, girls soccer; and Teaghan Weinstein, MVP, girls soccer; and standing, from left, Eli Parker, coach’s award, boys soccer; Taj Sands, MVP, boys soccer; and Dylan McClure, most improved, boys soccer. Above right, seated from left, are Janvi Pander, coach’s award, golf; Claire Cooper, most improved, volleyball; and Lillian Ha, coach’s award, volleyball; standing, from left, Peter Van Dalen, MVP, golf, and Jamil Salem, most improved, golf. Not pictured was Paige Rohloff, MVP, volleyball.
Mallards drop scrimmage to Nandua, eye solid season
By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer
(Nov. 21, 2025) Worcester Prep lost a tight scrimmage to Nandua on Tuesday night, 38- 37.
The varsity basketball team is a mature, experienced team made up of six seniors, three juniors and two sophomores.
In the first quarter, the Mallards scored 10 to the Warriors of Nandua’s seven. In the second quarter, the Warriors showed an upper hand, 158. At the half, the score was 22-18 with the Warriors in the lead.
The Warriors won the third quarter, 8-7. The fourth quarter went to the Mal-
lards, 12-8, for a final score of 38-37.
Four seniors scored 27 of the game’s points -- high scorer Ben Anthony scored eight, Ansh Batra scored seven, Paxton Mault scored six and Jeremy Forman scored six.
After the scrimmage, Head Coach Eddie Rohe said, “I think we’re great. I think we’re going to be really good. I expect to be where we were last year. We learned a lot tonight, we have a lot of good leaders on the team. We got an older team this year, hopefully we can work on some things and come out Thursday night with our first real game and take care of business. I fully expect to.”
PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
Senior Ansh Batra looks to finish in the paint off a loose ball he gathered.
Senior center Ben Anthony cleans up a missed shot with a put back, scoring two of his eight points on the game.
Senior guard Paxton Mault sprinted past a Nandua defender to finish the fast break.
PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
Deeper Prep team looking to build off scrimmage win
By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer
(Nov. 21, 2025) Worcester Prep’s girls’ varsity basketball team showed growth and experience in their first scrimmage of the season on Tuesday.
The Mallards faced off against Nandua High School for a scrimmage and took all four game quarters; with 9-4 in the first, 9-0 in the second, 6-5 in the third and 11-0 in the fourth.
The final score was 35-9.
Game high scorer was sophomore Carolina Labin making four out of six foul shots in the first quarter and baskets in the third and fourth quarters.
Head Coach Kelly Roberts has high hopes for this season as a result of some new players in addition to some holdovers who learned a lot last year.
“We had some transfers come in from Baltimore, two sisters and three
new freshmen,” she said. “We already have three out due to injuries and an illness. Our strength this year is we have enough players for subs so we can get fresh legs in. I think everybody’s got talent and background in playing basketball a little bit more. I feel like they have a lot more experience.”
For Thursday’s game against Holly Grove, Roberts said her focus would
be on, “Rebounding, definitely reaching in and forcing it. It gets a little chaotic sometimes with rushing the ball. I think they did really good. I mixed them all up tonight to try to play differently instead of, the starters playing with the starters. Second string they all have something to give out there. It shows today, they play like a team and they’re excited but I know the nerves were starting.”
PHOTO COURTESY OF SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
Prep guard Carolina Labin drives to the hoop for one of her baskets against Nandua on Tuesday.
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