5/23/25 OC Today-Dispatch

Council adopts FY26 budget with same property tax rate

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 23, 2025) City officials this week adopted a $181.8 million budget for the coming fiscal year.

On Monday, the Ocean City Council voted unanimously to adopt its spending plan for fiscal year 2026. The budget includes a general fund of $119.9 million and capital projects of $3.4 million.

For the coming year, officials have set the property tax rate at 44.26 cents per $100 of assessed value, or the same tax rate set in the current year.

That rate is above the constant yield rate, or the rate needed to produce the same revenue as the year prior. As a result, the city is expected to collect an additional $5,593,058, as property assessments have increased from last year.

In total, the city has budgeted $53.9 million in property tax revenues for fiscal year 2026, which will fund 45% of the general fund budget.

The bulk of general fund expenditures have been allocated to public safety, which includes the police and fire departments, beach patrol and emergency preparedness.

As adopted this week, the police department budget has increased $1.8 million, representing the city’s final offer to the police union before it was decided both parties would move forward with arbitration.

Of that number, $1 million would go to additional pay and $500,000 would go to the purchase of 10 take-home police vehicles.

Should a third-party arbitrator side with the police union, the budget will have to be amended to reflect additional pay and benefits for the department.

The balance of general fund expenditures are divided among general government ($5.8 million), public works and beach maintenance ($7.9 million), sanitation ($8.4 million), highways and streets ($7 million), tourism ($15.1 million) and recreation ($5.5 million).

Money will also be allocated to several other funds, including the airport, transportation and convention center, to name a few.

The remainder of the city’s spending plan includes the city’s enterprise funds, standalone accounts that are self-sustaining through fees paid by consumers. This includes water, wastewater, the convention center and more.

The budget also allocates $3.4 million in capital projects, including $1.8 million for street paving, $1.5 million for the capital maintenance fund and $100,000 for Boardwalk redecking. Pay-as-you-go projects, funded through the capital maintenance fund, include the 4th Street parking lot expansion, canal dredging, Northside Park improvements, and city hall renovations, among others.

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An estimated 55k attended this year’s inaugural festival

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 23, 2025) Despite transportation delays on Saturday, officials say this year’s first-ever Boardwalk Rock music festival was an overwhelming success.

An estimated 55,000 people converged on downtown Ocean City last Saturday and Sunday for the inaugural Boardwalk Rock, a sold-out music festival featuring nearly 30 national rock groups.

From the crowds to the weather, Ocean City Tourism and Business Development Director Tom Perlozzo said the weekend was nothing short of a “tremendous success for Ocean City.”

“Young and old enjoyed the entertainment and our iconic setting on the boardwalk,” he said this week. “The economics to the event are terrific and from a tourism perspective the viral nature of photos, band appearances, followers, ticket holders and guests, really can’t be measured as it’s a huge boost to our marketing efforts.”

In downtown Ocean City, Boardwalk business owners said crowds were similar to those seen at the two fall festivals – Oceans Calling and Country Calling. Restaurateurs said staffing issues also persisted for last weekend’s event, as high school students were still in school, college students were still taking finals and J-1 students had not yet arrived.

“This weekend was harder to staff,” said The Dough Roller’s Kevin Gibbs. “That was the first thing I noticed … It was like a punch in the face to start the season.”

However, businesses reported strong sales throughout the weekend. Bull on the Beach Manager Brad Wells said his restaurant started running out of food by 8 p.m.

CITY Page 10

City transportation hiccups reported Saturday

Sunday evening, and that “numbers were on par” with last fall’s Country Calling, which was also a two-day event.

“This spring festival, it puts money in the bank right off the bat … ,” he said. “And it’s good to start off in the black instead of in the red. That’s a good thing.”

Gibbs said the festival also brought people who were interested in returning to Ocean City. He said his family’s hotel, the Breakers, had guests who made bookings for return stays.

“Out of all the festivals, we’ve gotten more bookings at the Breakers Hotel to come back than the other two [festivals]…,” he said. “This demographic wants to come back.”

From a city perspective, City Man-

ager Terry McGean said overall operations went smoothly.

“The promoter’s crews and city staff worked together to host another terrific music festival,” he said.

However, the biggest challenge this weekend came within the city’s transportation department, as early crowds arriving for Saturday’s festivities created backups at both bus stops and entrance gates.

Transportation Manager Rob Shearman said issues continued Saturday night, when a car accident on 56th Street thwarted movement from the festival grounds to places farther north. As a result, festivalgoers were encouraged to walk to their destination rather than use bus transportation.

“In terms of our performance, we in transportation and the event promoter representatives both remarked on Saturday that a surprisingly large percentage of the crowd wanted to arrive the moment the gates were opened, and that caused some significant backups at bus stops for the first few hours,” he said. “For Saturday evening’s return, unfortunately a major traffic incident unrelated to the bus service impeded us from being able to return buses southbound in a timely manner.”

However, Shearman said bus transportation went smoothly in both directions throughout the day Sunday. And an hour after the last set concluded, the city’s transportation system was picking up the last of the festivalgoers. He said ridership reached an estimated 28,000 people each day of the festival.

“Our overall deployment was very similar to what we fielded for Country Calling, and ridership numbers are not yet fully tabulated but are also very close to what we experienced last October,” he said.

McGean said Boardwalk Rock brought “great crowds, well behaved and very few issues” over the weekend. Ocean City Police Department Deputy Communications Manager Ashley Miller agreed.

“We're especially pleased to report that there were no significant incidents during the event,” she said. “The crowds were respectful and came to enjoy great music in a safe, well-organized environment, which is very much in line with what we've seen during the fall festivals.”

Miller did acknowledge the singlevehicle collision Saturday night, in which a driver suffered a medical emergency before striking a utility pole. As a result, a portion of Coastal Highway was closed for several hours, causing disruptions for public transportation.

However, she praised the festival’s promoter, C3 Presents, for their commitment to safety throughout the weekend. Mayor Rick Meehan also recognized those efforts during a council meeting Monday.

“For 55,000 people, there were very few arrests, and they were for minor things,” he said. “Throughout town, it was a great weekend.”

Councilman John Gehrig agreed.

“Even when there are a lot of people, it’s not the quantity of people it's really the quality of people who come here, introduced to Ocean City, because they want to see these great bands,” he said. “We work with partners who work hard to bring these respectful guests to town. We're blown away with what we do here in Ocean City. Just like other people said, I'm just incredibly fortunate, lucky and blessed to live in this community and when people experience it they want to come back with their families. So that's really the goal and why we do what we do here as far as

and

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County OKs starting sheriff salary increase

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(May 23, 2025) Worcester County officials agreed to bump starting salaries for sheriff’s deputies to regionally competitive levels after the sheriff dropped his fiscal year 2026 spending request by more than $1 million.

Tuesday’s budget review for the sheriff’s office also escalated into a nearly 90-minute discussion, at times heated, with several commissioners launching into monologues about how they feel taxpayers dollars should be spent on raises and cost-ofliving adjustments.

After their circuitous dais debate, the County Commissioners ultimately voted 4-3 to approve the sheriff’s budget amendments as presented, with Commissioners Joe Mitrecic, Eric Fiori, and Diana Purnell dissenting.

Sheriff Matt Crisafulli told commissioners Tuesday that he hoped the changes were “something palatable that we can all work together on” to remain competitive among Delmarva-area law enforcement agencies.

“It’s a start, to help not only bring in attractive applicants, but to also –you’ve heard that, ‘institutional knowledge’ – keep valuable men and women from walking out the back door because of a few thousand. I think we’re moving in the right direction, and this helps, but the other

agencies are moving fast,” he said.

Starting July 1, a rookie deputy salary in Worcester County would rise from $55,037 to $62,632. The sheriff’s original request was for $64,632.

Overall reductions in the sheriff’s amended budget will see a $900,603 decrease in salaries and benefits, putting his total budget request at $19.3 million.

Departmental salaries would fall by $512,811 – including deleting $224,000 in budgeted overtime pay – and benefits by $163,792. Lieutenant-grade pay drops by about $3,000, and one part-time deputy position would be held open until next summer.

Additional payroll moves would be postponed until January, including raising pay grades for the ranks of

deputy through sergeant, as well as the hiring a new forensic technician.

Given that overtime pay would be stripped from this budget, Commissioner Chip Bertino (District 5, Ocean Pines) asked the sheriff what his plans were to keep overtime costs low.

Crisafulli said crime is unpredictable and overtime is inevitable given his staffing shortages.

“Our long-term goal would be to get those employees back when we can and hire additional employees to fill those spots,” he said.

Notably, several of the County Commissioners told Crisafulli they didn’t agree with his choice to decrease the budget, telling him they’d have been happy to approve the earlier request.

Commissioner Joe Mitrecic (District 7, Ocean City) said deputies’ salaries and overtime should not have been touched, stressing how deputies are “the first line of defense” for keeping 911 response times low in rural swaths of the county.

“I think that you’re cutting yourself short,” Mitrecic told him, adding, “we can’t have a revolving door in our sheriff’s department. It’s too important to the county. I support you guys 100 percent and I support the amount of money you’re asking for.”

Commissioner Purnell (District 2, Central) agreed, telling the sheriff she didn’t have a problem with his original uncut budget.

“Our law enforcement is coming up against counties that are paying more,” she said. “If we’re in a position to meet that budget you first put out there, then we need to do that. All your officers are very important to you because you protect us. I can’t vote for you to take a reduction in your budget. I want to make sure you got what you need.”

The sheriff replied that he didn’t want to cut $1 million, but it was presented in the spirit of collaboration.

Mitrecic then pitched that the sheriff’s original, untouched budget should be reinstated – minus about $100,000 in line-items for supplies and consulting service – which had support from several other commissioners.

The discussion drifted, however, when the topic of cost-of-living (COLA) increases came up.

Last week, the commissioners in a 4-3 vote, opted to cap all county staff COLAs at $2,000, even for teachers who had negotiated a $4,000 pay increase in their union contract.

On Tuesday, while talking about starting deputy salaries, the question arose of whether the sheriff had calculated a COLA into that amount –opening the door for some elected officials to express honestly their feelings about the COLA changes.

“My understanding was, that was already off the table,” noted Commis-

Budgeting hearing turns tense

sioner Bertino noted, “because we already made that decision.”

Commissioner Eric Fiori (District 3, Sinepuxent) said he was supportive of giving sworn deputies the $4,000 COLA – and, if that didn’t fly, that the commissioners should consider budgeting a new line item akin to hazard pay to bring their salaries up.

But giving $4,000 to deputies would mean reintroducing the COLA not only for all public safety employees, but “everybody in the system” asserted Commission President Ted Elder (District 4, Western).

“And there’s no way we can afford that,” Elder said, adding, “I can’t support giving them the money to cut the support staff while they’re giving it to everyone else. No way I’m going to support giving two different costs of living to the haves and the have-nots.”

Offering the full $4,000 COLA to all county employees, including Board of Education staff, would cost about $3.3 million, according to budget officer Kim Reynolds.

(The commissioners briefly considered another solution to paying deputies more but without the COLA: an across-the-board pay grade increase for all sheriff’s employees, of about 5%. If implemented, it would have bumped starting deputy pay to approximately $65,730. However, this line of discussion didn’t go anywhere.)

Commissioner Mitrecic then weighed in, stating his strong opposition to the board’s decision to cap cost-of-living increases for all county employees. He said the county’s expected $6.3 million surplus was enough to offer everyone the COLA.

“I don’t know why we keep saying we don’t have the money,” he said.

Commissioner Fiori said the pay disparity between Board of Education support staff and certified teachers was a negotiated agreement, one approved by both the school board and the unions. “Why we’re meddling in that, I don’t understand,” he said. Fiori continued to hold the floor.

“Why are we not investing in this county?” he said. “It’s absolutely ridiculous we’re even having this debate. We have an additional $3 million in surplus. I’m conservative as they come, but there’s a time and a place to invest in the people that protect us, that educate our children, that make this county go around.”

Elder replied that the county is obligated to thread the needle between unexpected expenses, including unfunded state mandates or natural disasters, and giving some money back to taxpayers.

“It’s always good to have a little bit of reserve,” he told Fiori. “You state that you’re conservative, but it sounds opposite. We need to conserve what we’re spending. If we got extra this year, you need to give everybody a break. The taxpayers, they deserve a break. We’re all up here scrambling for who gets the most money. We gotta remember, this isn’t our money, this is the taxpayers’ money.”

Commissioner Jim Bunting, visibly frustrated, brought the conversation back to earth.

“I’ve never seen anything go so far off the tracks,” he said of the exchange. “Get this over with, because it’s gone crazy. You’re looking at everybody getting $4,000? It’s enough, if we give everybody $2,000.”

Added Bunting: “We did not cut their budget. All we did was reduce what they asked for, which is plenty. And frankly, the Board of Education, if we had $50 million, they’d want $49 million of it.”

Ultimately, Bertino moved to adopt the sheriff’s budget as presented. He, Bunting, Elder, and Commissioner Caryn Abbott voted to approve. No votes came from Fiori, Mitrecic, and Purnell.

The commissioners will hold another budget hearing Wednesday at noon at the county’s government headquarters in Snow Hill. A final budget vote is scheduled for June 3.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Worcester County Sheriff Matt Crisafulli appeared before the Worcester County Board of Commissioners at their May 20 budget hearing, where his fiscal year 2026 budget was approved.

Commissioners unanimously vote to cut income tax rate

Officials also agree to start process of reducing county Homestead credit to 0%

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(May 23, 2025) Worcester County officials, as part of their fiscal year 2026 budgeting, have decided to both lower income taxes and set the homestead tax credit rate to zero.

Officials said they hoped the moves will offer some financial relief to residents and taxpayers, given the county’s estimated $7.85 million budget surplus going into fiscal year 2026, which starts July 1. The current surplus includes major decisions made in recent weeks, including slic-

ing the proposed cost-of-living-adjustments from $4,000 for county employees to $2,000.

The commissioners have stated a desire to help county property owners with their rising expenses.

“That would help retirees, and with the income tax reduction by a quarter percent, we would be helping working people,” County Commissioner Chip Bertino said at Tuesday’s budget meeting. “So, we’re getting both ends there.”

The County Commissioners voted unanimously at Tuesday’s budget hearing to drop the county’s income tax rate a quarter of a percent, from 2.25% to 2%.

Reducing the income tax does represents a potential revenue loss to the county of about $1.9 million for fiscal 2026, as well as another $5.5 million for the 2027 fiscal year, according to county administration.

Worcester is projecting a massive tax revenue windfall for 2026, the result of higher property tax assessments that yielded about $18 million in new revenue.

The county is also projecting about $6 million more from income tax revenue. Other revenue increases of about $1.4 million came from real estate and transfer taxes.

Not all that money is fair game for spending. County policy mandates setting aside 15% of revenue in reserves, as well as 22.2% of income tax revenue toward employee pensions. County leaders also voted to drop the Homestead Property Tax Credit from 3% down to 0%. Commissioner Joe Mitrecic (District 7, Ocean City) introduced the motion Tuesday.

A zeroed-out homestead tax credit means eligible homeowners would effectively freeze their property tax rate, according to County Administrator Weston Young.

“Whatever your tax rate is, you will lock that in until you sell,” he said. Other counties and municipalities set their own tax cap, which cannot exceed 10% – and because Ocean City’s cap is also set to zero, it means an Ocean City property owner gets double the cap protection and effectively could lock in property taxes in perpetuity.

Commissioners President Ted Elder (District 4, Western) said “everyone should benefit from that, including sheriff’s office, teachers, everyone. I totally agree with (Mitrecic) and I really like the way you made that proposal.”

Because county leaders have to formally request the change with the state’s Department of Assessments and Taxation, the change from 3% to 0% likely wouldn’t take effect until at least next summer, meaning it won’t have any impact on this year’s budget, Young added.

Elected group’s intent to provide relief for everyone

When it takes effect, it represents an estimated revenue hit of $890,000 for county revenues.

Young added that, because Maryland’s state income tax is going up for higher earners, wealthy Marylanders could move to Worcester County fulltime and take advantage of a lower tax rate.

Designed to protect homeowners from taxes that come from increased state property assessments, the Homestead Property Tax Credit program puts a ceiling on how high your property tax bill can go.

Homeowners can only qualify for the tax credit on their primary residence, and they must apply online with the state. Worcester County has approximately 12,000 property tax accounts enrolled in the program, according to deputy county administrator Candace Savage.

Elsewhere in Worcester County, Berlin’s cap is 5%, Snow Hill’s is 3% and Pocomoke City’s is 10%. On the Eastern Shore, Talbot County’s homestead tax rate is 0%, Wicomico and Dorchester counties are 5%, and Somerset County’s is 10%.

Other Maryland municipalities with 0% caps include College Park and Upper Marlboro in Prince George’s County, as well as the town of St. Michaels, Trappe, and Queen Anne in Talbot County.

OC’s ad agency spending tops $1.2 million

Social media buys, sports partnerships part of BVK’s tourism and marketing plan

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 23, 2025) How much does the city pay its marketing agency each year?

If all the fees included in BVK’s contract with the city are totaled, it comes out to roughly $1.22 million in contracted services – $540,000 in retainer fees, up to $600,000 for production and $81,200 for public relations services.

That number doesn’t include other incremental projects, such as campaigns, the city may pay the agency to handle throughout the year.

However, Tourism and Business Development Director Tom Perlozzo said discussions on how the city spends its advertising dollars tends to get muddled. Here’s the breakdown.

As outlined by the city’s ordinance, just over 40% of room tax revenues are dedicated to an advertising fund. The legislation also outlines approved expenditures within the advertising

fund, such as advertising, sponsorships, promotion of special events, and more.

So while the city has budgeted millions of dollars for advertising, Perlozzo said not all of that goes directly to BVK, or to buying advertisements.

“It’s spelled out in our ordinance what we can and can’t do,” he said.

“And that’s where the confusion comes in.”

Just this year, for example, $880,000 of those room tax dollars went to sponsorships, while $200,000 went to Zartico, the company hired to conduct pacing reports for the city. He said additional line items, including sales trips and training, are also charged to room tax.

same terms. The city also allocates money to a media budget, which is then used by BVK to purchase advertising space or time on its behalf.

“It is very important to note BVK does not take a percentage of our media budget,” Perlozzo said. “Instead, 100% of our paid media dollars go directly toward advertising placements.”

‘It is a perfect indicator of what Ocean City has done over the years. This isn’t a one-year thing. This has been built up over 25 years.’

Tom Perlozzo Tourism and Business Development Director

“The room tax ordinance is pretty specific as far as what it allows room tax to be used for,” he said.

Advertising dollars also cover BVK’s contract, which the Ocean City Council renewed last week with the

Simply put, Perlozzo said none of the $5 million to $5.8 million BVK has spent on media buys in each of the last three years has benefited the agency.

“So the $5.8 million is not going to BVK,” he explained. “They are passing it through for us. So if we buy ads on Google, Facebook, Meta, they pay for it and those bills are submitted to the tourism department.”

However, not all of the city’s media purchases are handled by BVK, according to Perlozzo, as the city’s internal marketing team will handle

smaller-scale ad buys for regional events such as Sunfest, Springfest, Winterfest and events at the Performing Arts Center.

“We also manage sports sponsorships directly with partners such as the Orioles, the University of Maryland, and Monumental Sports to name a few,” he said.

While noting his department scrutinizes every dollar it spends, Perlozzo said he is aware of the questions and concerns surrounding the city’s investment in BVK and in marketing the town as a tourism destination. Just last week, for example, Councilwoman Carol Proctor said room tax revenues have declined in recent years.

But Perlozzo maintains that Ocean City continues to see a return on investment. He said for every dollar spent on advertising, $260 is returned to the city.

“For destinations that have similar budgets, they are getting about $50 less,” he said.

“It is a perfect indicator of what Ocean City has done over the years. This isn’t a one-year thing. This has been built up over 25 years.”

OC Council working toward beach tent ban

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 23, 2025) City officials have agreed to move forward with a ban on beach tents and to include additional restrictions on open-air canopies.

During Monday’s regular meeting, the Ocean City Council voted 5-2, with Council President Matt James and Council Secretary Tony DeLuca opposed, to approve the first reading of an ordinance to ban tents on the beach.

The legislation was also amended to include additional regulations on beach canopies, which those opposed argued would be unenforceable.

“I certainly support no tents, and I thought when we brought this up we were really just talking about sides, fronts and backs,” DeLuca said. “I think our main problem on the beach is visibility. That's the issue, and that's really

the only issue we have. So I’m not going to be voting for this.”

Earlier this month, the mayor and Ocean City Council expressed interest in addressing the increased number of tents on the beach during peak times. Staff also found that the number of complaints had increased as well.

The topic was revisited last Tuesday, when staff presented the City Council with several examples of ordinances adopted by surrounding municipalities, including a Dewey Beach ordinance that outlaws tents but stops short of banning canopies.

With public safety and viewsheds in mind, the council agreed to develop similar regulations, which were introduced for first reading this week.

As proposed, the ordinance would ban beach tents, or any structure with one or more sides. Baby tents measuring

less than 36 inches would be excluded. The legislation would also prohibit unattended canopies before 10 a.m. and to require the anchoring for such canopies to be contained within the canopy’s footprint.

“This relates to prohibiting tents, except baby tents, on the beach, prohibiting unattended canopies from being erected prior to 10 a.m., when lifeguards report duty, and prohibiting canopy systems that do not stay within the footprint of the canopy,” attorney Maureen Howarth said.

However, during public comments, property owner David Slacter suggested the council incorporate a beach zone where tents would be allowed. He also recommended that those tents be required to keep one side open.

Slacter also said he had concerns about loopholes, as the ordinance re-

mained silent on canopy sizes, as well as the minimum distances between canopies.

“You can end up with a tent city, which nobody wants to see,” he said.

Councilman John Gehrig agreed. He said without a minimum distance, beachgoers could connect the canopies.

“We can clearly see what’s going to happen here,” he said. “So do we address it now or later?”

After a back-and-forth discussion, the council voted 5-2 to approve the ordinance, but with two amendments – to set a maximum canopy size of 10-by-10 feet and to require a minimum 3-foot separation around a canopy’s perimeter.

“The problems we hear about is setup and people can’t get by … it’s the group of however many who set up a big footprint …,” Gehrig said. “I think it’s considerate to set up a pathway, so you don't have to walk 50 yards around a tent setup.”

While not a voting member, Mayor Rick Meehan said he wanted to keep the ordinance as simple as possible.

“If we keep it simple, maybe more simple than complicated, we would have a better opportunity for success in educating the public …,” he said. “I’m just trying to be reasonable.”

Public comment for Commissioner meetings sought

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 23, 2025) An Ocean City resident is seeking the council’s help in bringing public comment concerns to state representatives.

At the conclusion of Monday’s regular meeting, Ocean City resident John Adkins appealed to the mayor and Ocean City Council to talk with state legislators regarding the public’s inability to provide comments during meetings of the Worcester County Commissioners.

While public comments are allowed in most municipal meetings throughout Worcester, he said the county government has made no effort to follow suit.

“I went to the county’s [budget] meeting. You get two minutes, and two minutes is not long enough,” he said. “And after it was over with, I talked to the president, and they still don’t allow anybody to talk at their open meetings.”

As it is currently written, Maryland’s Open Meetings Act mandates that meetings be held in public but does not require a specific section for public comments. However, public bodies do have the choice to allow a public comment period and set rules for how the comment period will be conducted.

In February 2024, a motion to add a public comment period at the end of commissioners meetings failed in a 3-4

Outdoor sleeping law targets OC’s homeless

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 23, 2025) Those who sleep or store personal property in public places throughout Ocean City will now face tougher penalties following the adoption of two ordinances this week.

On Monday, the Ocean City Council voted to approve ordinances that address sleeping and storing personal property.

As adopted, the law would prohibit sleeping in or obstructing public places and storing personal property in or on public places. A second ordinance also gives law enforcement the authority to issue charges and fines.

The ordinances considered Monday do not impact sleeping on the beach, which is handled separately in city code.

Last month, city staff – at the direction of the city council, introduced legis-

lation to regulate sleeping and storing personal property in public areas, including the Boardwalk, transit stations, and alleyways.

Working with the Ocean City Police Department, they produced an ordinance they said would protect residents and visitors while allowing public places to remain open.

“We’re trying to balance the council duty to protecting the health, safety and welfare while recognizing that we don’t want to go further than we need to with his ordinance,” City Solicitor Heather Stansbury said at the time.

According to the ordinance, anyone found in violation of sleeping in or obstructing public places, or storing personal property in public places, will be charged with a misdemeanor, punishable by a $500 fine and up to 90 days incarceration. However, violators will first

be issued warnings.

For personal property, for example, law enforcement will post a pre-removal notice, with the exception that the personal property poses a threat to the health, safety and welfare, or impedes access. In that instance, a discarded personal property notice would be issued. All personal

property would be stored for 30 days. During public comments this week, one part-time resident came before the council seeking some solution to the homeless issue. She said a small gathering of unhoused individuals have collected their belongings at the north end

See SLEEPING Page 22

Adkins: County policy a “crime”

Continued from Page 18

vote, with Commissioners Eric Fiori, Caryn Abbott, Jim Bunting and Chip Bertino opposed.

While commissioners who supported the motion said public comments would give the entire board a chance to hear constituents’ concerns, those in opposition argued the recommendation brought forward by staff was too vague and not Worcester-specific. They also noted that constituents did have a chance to share their comments through email and one-on-one meetings.

At Adkins’ request, the Ocean City Council last spring agreed to send a letter to the Worcester County Commissioners in support of incorporating public comments at county meetings. And on Monday, Adkins returned with a request to bring the issue to the state legislature.

“In Maryland law, as long as that meet-

ing is open to the public, they’re not breaking the law,” he said. “But if that law was amended, where they have to let the public speak after that meeting, that would change Worcester County. They’d have to. And you all have the opportunity.”

Adkins also shared his frustrations over not being allowed to publicly comment on county issues.

“It’s a crime not letting the people who vote for these people speak at a public meeting,” he said.

Mayor Rick Meehan said he would take Adkins’ request to the county’s representatives, including the senator and delegate.

“There may be a reason,” he replied. “There might be legislation that’s addressed that, there might have been legislation that passed. And I don’t know the history of the Maryland General Assembly, but I’ll find out for you.”

Two OC officers disciplined for sex scandal

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 23, 2025) A trial board has handed down the final punishment for two Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officers found guilty of workplace misconduct.

On Wednesday, officers Rick Gutowski and James Runkles – two of the five officers named in a misconduct investigation within the OCPD – elected to challenge recommended disciplinary measures to a three-member board chaired by an administrative law judge.

As a result of guilty pleas both officers tendered on multiple charges, the board handed down punishments that ranged from letters of reprimand to loss of pay and restrictions on promotions. In Runkles’ case, he will be demoted from lieutenant to sergeant.

“Lieutenant, you came very close to losing your job here,” Judge Victor Butanis told Runkles at the conclusion of Wednesday’s hearing. “It was razor thin.”

Last April, the Worcester County Police Accountability Board received a citizen complaint detailing relations of a sexual nature between one female officer and four co-workers. In his written statement, the complainant shared several instances in which his ex-girlfriend had conducted the alleged affairs with the four officers, both on and off duty.

Named in the public document were officers Megan McHugh, Corey Vincent, Daniel Jacobs, Gutowski and Runkles.

As a result, the OCPD last May suspended three of the officers and launched an internal investigation, the results of which were forwarded to the Worcester County Administrative Charging Committee, a five-member group tasked with reviewing the investigation and recommending any disciplinary action. And last fall, the committee handed down its ruling.

It should be noted that McHugh, Vincent and Jacobs have since left the department, either by resignation or retirement. The remaining two officers – Gutowski and Runkles – have appealed the charging committee’s recommended discipline to the trial board, the hearings for which were held this week.

During his presentation Wednesday, Gutowski’s attorney, Michael Davey, announced his client had reached an agreement as to the three charges against him – conduct unbecoming, engaging in an inappropriate relationship with a subordinate officer, and failure to report the relationship.

In a statement of facts, Gutowski acknowledged that he had violated department policies and had engaged in an “intimate, nonphysical” relationship with McHugh, which included the exchange of sexual messages, photos and

videos. He also acknowledged he had a supervisory role over McHugh for a portion of their relationship and had failed to report the relationship to the department.

As part of a guilty plea on all three violations, both the OCPD and Gutowski’s attorney submitted a joint recommendation for discipline, which the trial board ultimately accepted. In total, Gutowski received a letter of reprimand, 17 days’ loss of pay and 12 months’ ineligibility for promotion.

Davey also represented Runkles, who pleaded guilty on three of the same charges. In a statement of facts, he also admitted to having a non-physical relationship with McHugh from 2020 to 2023, during which time they exchanged

“inappropriate” text messages and photos. He also acknowledged the relationship occurred during his time as a supervisor in the patrol division, where McHugh was stationed.

“He has taken complete responsibility for those actions,” Davey told the board this week.

Officials also told board members on Wednesday that Runkles pleaded not guilty to a fourth charge of failing to report an officer’s misconduct to an immediate supervisor. That, in turn, kicked off a series of testimonies from both current and former OCPD officers.

For his part, Lt. Frank Soscia of the Office of Professional Standards argued that Runkles had failed to report

See COPS Page 24

Sleeping outdoors made illegal

Continued from Page 20

of the Boardwalk, which she said has created hazardous and unsanitary conditions.

For his part, Mayor Rick Meehan acknowledged the city was working with its county partners to help the homeless. He added the ordinance approved this week aimed to address some of the issues she shared.

“We have issues with their residency

in the town from the health department, as you have very much articulated with the fact that it’s a health issue, which of itself is a problem,” he said. “It’s one of the reasons, with belongings and other things, that we have an ordinance. It’s not just for those particular individuals. It’s for anybody.”

With no further discussion, the council voted 7-0 to adopt the two ordinances on second reading.

HONORING THOSE WHO SERVE WITH HONOR: Cherishing the memory of those who gave everything.

Cops shared ‘inappropriate’ texts, photos

McHugh’s misconduct in sending the inappropriate photos. He also said Runkles failed to report an allegation from the complainant that inappropriate conversations between McHugh and another named officer occurred on a work phone, although an internal investigation found no evidence for the claims.

Retired OCPD Capt. Art Grady added that Runkles never disclosed any relationship or misconduct to him during his time as Runkles’ immediate superior. He also noted that he was never formally interviewed by the Office of Professional Standards during the course of the internal investigation and that he initially did not support the investigation into Runkles.

“When the whole investigation came forth, it was really hard on the depart-

ment,” he said.

After a brief recess, the hearing reconvened, with Davey announcing his client had elected to change his plea to guilty on all four charges against him.

As part of a joint recommendation from both the OCPD and Runkles’ attorney, the trial board handed down its punishment for the first three charges, which included a demotion to sergeant, 12 days’ loss of pay, 12 months’ ineligibility for promotion, and a letter of reprimand.

However, the two parties disagreed with the punishment for the fourth charge, with OCPD’s attorney, Matthew Reinhart, seeking a second demotion to corporal and an additional 15 days’ loss of pay.

He noted the charging committee recommended demotions on three of the

four charges against Runkles and categorized the fourth offense as a “Category E” violation, which involves misuse of authority, unethical behavior or an “act that could result in an adverse impact on an officer or public safety or to the professionalism of the law enforcement agency.”

“This incident brought disrepute to the agency,” he said, adding the recommended punishment was supported by the department’s new police chief, Ray Austin.

Davey, however, said the punishment was unwarranted, pointing to Runkles’ numerous accolades within the department and his good rapport with colleagues. He said numerous individuals –including Grady, Capt. Dennis Eade and Capt. Michael Colbert – were willing to testify on Runkles’ behalf.

“A two-rank demotion for this case I don’t believe is anywhere near appropriate,” he said.

After convening in private to review the recommendations, a board majority concurred the fourth charge rose to a Category E violation. While acknowledging the mitigating factors in the case, the board recommended Runkles be ineligible for promotion for 36 months and that 15 days’ loss of pay be added to his punishment.

“We do believe the board needs to send a message that this behavior cannot be tolerated,” the judge said.

The charging committee’s full list of disciplinary recommendations were not made immediately available to this newspaper.

POLICE/COURTS

Memorial Day parade returns to Flower St. area

By Stewart Dobson Editor

(May 23, 2025) A tradition that dates to the 1940s in the Flower Street community will see that flag raised again on Monday when the Old-Fashioned Memorial Day Parade takes the first steps in what will be an afternoon of celebration and remembrance.

At one time, the Memorial Day parade and its associated activities was almost like a combination Mardi Gras/homecoming, resident Greg Purnell recalled. Former residents and family members who had moved on would return each year for the event, which then, as now, focused on showing respect for deceased veterans and celebrating the promise of the future, he said.

The parade has seen a significant resurgence in recent years and routinely draws thousands of spectators to witness it and to take part in the postparade activities.

With Col. John Foreman serving as this year’s grand marshal, the parade is expected to feature some 30 units, as it begins at Stephen Decatur Middle School and marches down Flower Street to Henry Park. Floats, bands and marching units will compete for a cash prize as they pass by the judges’ stand in front of Duncan-Showell Post 231 of the American Legion.

That is also where many of the festivities and ceremonies will take place following the parade. In addition to food and craft vendors, Purnell said the afternoon will include music and line dancing in the street. A separate dance competition for the younger set will take place at Henry Park.

In addition to the celebratory aspect of Memorial Day, veterans who have since passed on will be remembered by post members who visit area cemeteries and place flags on the graves of departed veterans. A special church service recognizing those who served the country will take place at New Bethel United Methodist Church on Germantown Road beginning at 10 a.m.

Parking for spectators is available on the grass lot across from Henry Park.

FILE PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Parade participants are pictured singing along the route last year in Berlin.

SCHOLARSHIP AWARDED

Contractors for a Cause recently announced a $4,000 scholarship has been awarded to Stephen Decatur senior Graham Geiser. The scholarship is intended to support his Mechanical Engineering major. Geiser’s outstanding track record of exceptional work, volunteerism, and athletic achievements has earned him this well-deserved recognition. He is headed to the University of Tennessee. Pictured with Geiser are Chris Wolfe of All State Construction and Dawn Gallick of Delmarva Printing.

Main Street accreditation for Berlin, again

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(May 23, 2025) Berlin has once again been designated as an accredited Main Street America program for 2025 due to the town’s commitment to strengthening community enhancement efforts, the municipality announced last week.

The Town of Berlin Main Street and Arts and Entertainment District recently announced the distinction via a Facebook post. By being designated as an accredited Main Street American program, Berlin has a proven track record of planning and implementing initiatives aligned with the Main Street Approach.

According to Main Street America’s website, the Main Street Approach prioritizes economic vitality, design, promotion, and organization to strengthen a commercial district and its economy.

The economic vitality piece of the method includes fostering financial tools to assist new and existing businesses. The design portion aims to enhance the physical aspects of a commercial district, promotion looks to showcase a downtown’s unique characteristics, and organization can be reached by creating partnerships and community engagement.

Main Street America’s partner-

ships with corporations and government entities that support local economies give Main Street leaders access to grants, educational services, and resource opportunities.

The accredited designation is the highest distinction offered by Main Street America, ahead of their affiliate status, where towns, while not required to have yet reached significant economic, physical, social, and organizational changes, are moving toward improvement in these areas. Berlin has again been given the accredited, or the top-tier, recognition.

This status means that the Town of Berlin has reached baseline requirements. These include “a board of directors formed by a representative base of the district stakeholders and community members, dedicated to leading the district’s Main Street program,...dedicated a budget for the district’s revitalization programming and the Main Street program’s operations, and demonstrated support from the municipality for the Main Street program, which can include leadership participation, funding, inkind donations, and philosophical support,” among other demands.

Main Street America’s website shows 1,171 programs achieved designations this year. The online page also includes impact statistics, which

reveal that in 2024, Main Street America groups across the United States reinvested $7.65 billion locally, saw a net gain in jobs of 33,835, saw a net gain in businesses of 6,324, and saw 10,126 buildings be rehabilitated.

Berlin has taken advantage of their involvement with Main Street America. Earlier this year, the town was selected as a semifinalist for the 2025 Great American Main Street Award, an honor reserved for municipalities demonstrating innovative community transformation, engagement, and the creation of arts and culture scenes.

While Berlin was not chosen as a winner, it was deemed a finalist because of its thriving spirit and support of underrepresented business owners.

“Berlin Main Street’s accomplishments include increasing business

opportunities for minority- and women-owned businesses, championing preservation and adaptive reuse projects, and nurturing a volunteer base and board of directors that reflects the community’s diversity — from age and heritage to perspectives and interests,” the Main Street America’s February press release announcing the semifinalists said.

Berlin qualified for the award by celebrating Black-owned businesses year-round, hosting a flag-raising event to observe LGBTQ+ Pride Month in June, and paving the path for youth engagement as volunteers and committee liaisons.

The Town of Berlin continues to strengthen its community spirit, which is evident by its continued involvement as an accredited program with Main Street America for 2025.

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Berlin parking lot planning continues with site review

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(May 23, 2025) To alleviate a lack of suitable parking, particularly during crowded town events, the concept plan for a lot on the corner of West and Washington streets in Berlin went before the municipality’s planning commission last week, where issues of overnight parking, traffic, lighting, bumpers, and the entrance and exit strategy were discussed.

The Town of Berlin has historically struggled to provide visitors and residents ample parking, especially during jam-packed events. In recent years, the town’s popularity has resulted in chronic parking issues due to the demand exceeded current supply.

Earlier this year, to address the challenge, the Berlin Mayor and Council entered into a 10-year deal with William Esham, Jr., to lease a vacant 2.13-acre lot on the west side of West Street. The space will supply around 110 spots. The property’s grass surface will remain during the lot’s first year.

On Wednesday, May 14, Councilmembers Steve Green and Jay Knerr, joined by Jimmy Charles, public works director, and David Gaskill, the town attorney, presented the outlined lot to the planning commission. The municipality’s mayor and council are the official

applicants of the proposal. No formal action was taken as the planning team was meant to simply review the concept. A type of border, like a fence or a rope, will be placed around the property, and no material is currently expected to be poured over the grass. As such, the parking lot initiative did not require a building permit, site plan approval or stormwater management. Suggestions and possible improvements will continue to be evaluated to the ensure the lot remains useful and practical.

“I work a lot of events, and my thinking is, if we’re parking 50, 60, 70 cars, that will help eliminate the parking issues that we have throughout town,” Charles said.

The property will include signage to indicate the areas in which parking is permitted. In the site plan presented last week, the entrance will be set off West Street, while people will be asked to exit onto Washington Street. Signs will direct drivers in these directions. The hope is that the lot will remedy a lack of parking in downtown Berlin.

“This is very much needed for town events,” Knerr said. “People are driving in circles trying to find parking, parking where they shouldn’t be parking. We’re really hoping this will alleviate a lot of that, especially for the farmers market

One-way entrance, exit proposed for new lot

and all kinds of events. It's very much needed.”

Green echoed Knerr’s sentiment, adding that the parking shortage creates a nuisance during more congested days. The proposed lot aims to attract more business to the town and ease the stress many feel as they try to find a space to leave their cars.

“We have all seen the motorists with the parking panic, driving around … sometimes blocking driveways unknowingly … This is something that will help us with events, help our businesses, and also help our residents who feel the strain of our parking shortage in town,” Green said. “We will now have a pin where we can say, ‘Here’s a pin, put that in your GPS.’ Direct them right there to an open lot.”

According to Knerr, the new lot will also help with challenges businesses face. In April, town residents brought forward an issue revealing that patrons of Tracks and Yaks, a railbike excursion company on Broad Street that lacks suitable parking, have taken to using spots designated for Berlin Beer Company.

“Every day, businesses like Berlin Beer Company and Tracks and Yacks can divert their customers to this parking lot on any given day, which will help that situation,” Knerr said.

Officials are also hopeful that the new lot will increase revenue for downtown

businesses, as additional parking will accommodate more visitors.

The town will likely implement ParkMobile, a pay-to-park app, for the new lot. Knerr said the town can utilize the system at no cost. Steps have yet to be taken to enact the application, but the councilman said, “It's only a matter of time.”

Members of the planning commission expressed concern that if the lot charged visitors to park, they may search for spots in neighborhoods, exacerbating congestion issues.

Knerr noted that when ParkMobile is rolled out, West Street and the rear side of Washington will likely be enforced as resident-only parking.

Furthermore, when the plan came before the Berlin Board of Zoning Appeals last month, Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall said that the amount and timing of the parking fee are unknown. However, users of the new lot will be charged eventually, as the town must pay the property owners for rent as well as making future improvements. The plan for this summer is for the lot to be grass.

“We are exploring the use of ParkMobile because we need to break even on the lease for the lot,” Tyndall said in April. “We have used American Rescue Plan Act funds to cover year one and year two, but it’s a 10-year lease, and we want a sustainable path forward. It’s possible there would only be a fee during

peak times.”

The planning commission struggled to accept a one-way entrance and exit, arguing drivers should be able to enter and exit at both openings. The applicants assured that the plan is flexible and open to suggestions.

Still, Town Administrator Mary Bohlen noted that creating a one-way entrance and exit would have the advantage of limiting the size of the access points.

“Having the entrance and exit be one way only also significantly reduces the footprint of the entrance instead of having to have it wide enough so that passing vehicles have enough room,” she said. “If you're going in one way and out the other, you don’t have to have quite as wide of a [space].”

The town may also put up a sign that says “right turn” only at the lot’s exit.

“As you exit, we were looking to have the exit to the right,” Charles said. “We would have two signs there, exit to the right … we’re just trying to get the majority of people to come out, make the right, head back around to Broad Street, and then they can disperse through that. We are trying to minimize traffic back into town by making suggestions.”

Charles added that LED lights will likely be placed on the poles facing the lot and will be app-activated. Staff could monitor the property and turn the illumination off as needed.

“We can have some signage out,” Charles added. “We’ll have no overnight parking, but if the police officer shows up, there's no one sleeping in the car, but if it's there, after two or three nights, then we have an issue, and we can address it. Or if we see it and it's a nuisance, we can address that.”

Stephen Decatur marching band hoping for Hawaii trip

Students, school need to raise $130K to participate in Pearl Harbor anniversary

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(May 22, 2025) A trip to Hawaii and a performance commemorating the end of World War II is on the horizon for the Stephen Decatur High School marching band, if they can raise the $130,000 required to go.

SDHS’s marching band was invited to participate in the Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade in Honolulu on Dec. 7, 2025. The event commemorates the anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 and celebrates the end of WWII, particularly this time around, as it marks 80 years since peace was established in 1945.

The Berlin-based performance group was the only high school band in Maryland to be invited to the ceremony this year. Jimmy McKenzie, Decatur’s marching band director, said that a band from each state with a battleship of the same name in Pearl Harbor at the time of the invasion is asked to perform. The honor is passed around from year to year.

“[Decatur’s] program has a long

history of success,” McKenzie noted of the school’s invitation.

The parade will be chock-full of acts as it proceeds down Kalakaua Avenue in Waikiki. McKenzie said the Seahawks’ musical choices would include pieces from their halftime show lineup entitled “American Voices.” The director added that their performance would also showcase "Aloha Oe,” a song composed by the last queen of Hawaii, and patriotic tunes like “America the Beautiful” and “We Shall Overcome.” The origins of “We Shall Overcome” hold a local interest, as the melody is thought to have been inspired by "I'll Overcome Some Day," a hymn by the Berlin-born Charles Albert Tindley.

If they attend the parade, the Decatur group will also perform at the docks of the U.S.S. Missouri with the other participating bands. The battleship was where the Japanese Instrument of Surrender was signed on Sept. 2, 1945, effectively ending the war. This year’s performance on the boat’s docks will celebrate that day and honor all those who fought and gave their lives in the bloody years leading to eventual peace.

McKenzie said that SDHS received their invitation in October and has

School band gets invited to play in anniversary event

spent most of this year fundraising. Currently, the band is sitting at around $30,000, but $100,000 is still required to take the kids to Hawaii.

“In order to fully fund the marching band to go and not to have any of the weight be put onto our students’ families, we would need to raise $100,000 more,” McKenzie said. “The total cost of the trip would be between $130,000 and $135,000.

This amount would cover costs like flights, hotels, bus transportation in Hawaii, and other necessities identified once the group arrives on the island. The money is due by Oct. 1, but the band director maintained they need to confirm their attendance as soon as possible to snag early deals and reservation spots.

The Seahawk musical team has organized fundraising initiatives this year to accumulate the necessary money. On June 2, for instance, community members are invited to a restaurant fundraiser at Chipotle, where part of the proceeds will go towards the school’s efforts to send the band to Hawaii.

Still, while fundraisers help acquire some money, the band director maintained that direct donations will push the funding to where it needs to be.

Those who want to contribute may write a check to the SDHS Band Boosters and send it to Stephen Decatur High School. Individuals may also contact McKenzie at jrmckenzie@worcesterk12.org.

The parade is on Sunday, Dec. 7. The band will leave on the Thursday prior and return to Berlin the following Tuesday. McKenzie said that one day of the trip would include the procession, another the U.S.S. Missouri performance, and a separate day for a tour of Honolulu, with stops at places like the Polynesian Cultural Center and the Dole Plantation.

McKenzie is hopeful that his band will get to participate in the Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade and recognizes what a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity it would be for the young musicians.

“A lot of our students have not really gotten the opportunity to perform off the shore before,” he said. “... To represent not just our school but also the state, at a very large event, is a great opportunity for the students to actually get that performance opportunity and take pride in something far greater than any of us combined.”

The marching band and color guard is looking at enrollment numbers of between 42 and 45 next year.

“As part of being enrolled in the marching band, we want to make sure that all of our students have an equitable chance to get out [to Hawaii],” Mckenzie said.

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Current principal tapped to replace Wallace in admin

Record currently leading Snow Hill Middle School

(May 23, 2025) The Worcester County Board of Education has named Dr. Matthew Record as the school system’s next Chief Safety and Academic (Secondary Education) Officer, effective July 1, 2025.

Following the announced appointment of Dr. Annette Wallace as the next Superintendent of Schools, the school system conducted a successful search for her replacement, leading to today’s appointment of Record to the executive level role.

Record is a dedicated and accomplished educational leader with over two decades of experience spanning early childhood through high school education. Currently serving as the principal of Snow Hill Middle School, he has successfully led transformative initiatives that have significantly enhanced student achievement, campus safety, and school climate.

Record has held multiple principalships within Worcester County Public Schools, including at Snow Hill Elementary and Pocomoke Middle Schools, where he implemented innovative strategies to support highpoverty populations and improve academic performance. His leadership has been recognized at the state level, including being honored as the Maryland Middle School Principal of the Year in 2020.

Holding a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, a Master’s in School Leadership and a Bachelor's in Elementary Education, Record pairs academic rigor with practical experience. Throughout his career, he has contributed to largescale grant projects, led accreditation evaluations, and championed the arts, earning the Maryland School Administrator Music Educator of the Year award in 2019.

"We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Record to our leadership team,” Superintendent of Schools Lou Taylor said. “His proven track record of elevating student achievement, fostering welcoming school environments, and leading with integrity makes him an exceptional addition. His passion for educational excellence and his ability to inspire both staff and students will undoubtedly make a lasting impact on our school system community."

Additional administrative announcements, including Record’s successor, are anticipated to occur next month.

Dr. Record

Blood donors sought

Blood Bank of Delmarva (BBD) is calling on all eligible blood donors to make an appointment before the summer months, which are a difficult time for the blood supply, as school breaks, summer travel, and busy schedules make blood donation less of a priority leading to seasonal shortages.

To thank donors, BBD will be giving away branded wet/dry bags to all who come to donate through May 28.

To meet expected hospital demand, BBD is calling on additional businesses, schools, religious groups, and community organizations to step up and host drives this summer. Blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice per month. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently lifted several blood donor eligibility restrictions. To view current eligibility guidelines or make an appointment, visit delmarvablood.org or call 1-888-8BLOOD-8.

Student achievements

The following represents a collection of media announcements from universities about local students:

• Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) congratulates the following students on being named to the

Spring 2025 President's List. The spring terms run from January to May. Local students include Connor Hudson of Berlin, Yvonne Jackson of Berlin and Adam Shanklin of Ocean Pines

• Belmont University recently released the Dean's List for the spring 2025 semester. Approximately 47% of the University's 6,912 undergraduate students qualified for the spring 2025 Dean's List, including Alexander Jett of Ocean City and Kiley Kaeufer of Berlin.

• Regan Anne Bunting of Snow Hill is earning a Bachelor of Science degree from Muhlenberg College. A member of the Class of 2025, and a graduate of Parkside High School, Bunting majored in Biochemistry at the college.

• Incoming students who have enrolled at McDaniel College as members of the Class of 2029 include several local students: Gavin Buchheit of Bishopville, a graduate of Stephen Decatur High School and plans to study Kinesiology; Evie Eggers of Berlin, a graduate of Stephen Decatur High School and plans to study Art; and Briar Parsons of Berlin, a graduate of Worcester Preparatory School who plans to study Environmental Studies.

• Jonathan Alverzo of Ocean City graduated with a Bachelor Of Science Continued on Page 42

in Electrical And Computer Engineering from The University of Texas at Austin this spring.

• Julianna Fohner, of Ocean City, was among the three Shenandoah University women's lacrosse studentathletes named second team All-Region by the Intercollegiate Women's Lacrosse Coaches Association on May 16.

• Hailey Bowden of Berlin was named to Susquehanna University's Dean's List for the spring 2025 semester.

Garden tour date set

The Lower Shore Land Trust is thrilled to announce the return of the Pollinator Garden Tour (PGT) on Saturday, June 7 in Berlin with a theme of “Small Spaces, Big Impact.” This annual event brings together gardeners,

artists, nature lovers, and families for a one-of-a-kind experience celebrating pollinator-friendly landscapes, plein air painting, and community spirit.

The tour features artists painting live (en plein air), and children’s nature activities. Pre-tour and Post-tour events will feature live music, wine and refreshments, and an art exhibit and sale.

The event kicks off June 6 at Sister’s Wine Bar & Gift Shop from 6–9 p.m. enjoy the special PGT-themed drink, live music from Berlin local fave Rob Bailey, a 50/50 raffle, and guest bartenders. No ticket required.

On Saturday, June 7, check in for the tour at the Welcome Center at 8 a.m. Begin your morning at the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum. Pick up your garden tour booklet with a tour map and garden details. Visit the gardens at your own pace. The self-guided tour features nine stunning gardens,

most within walking distance of the museum. Each site offers a unique view into pollinator-friendly landscaping.

On Friday, June 27, Wrap It Up at the Plein Air Exhibit & Sale will be held at Bishop’s Stock Fine Art, Craft & Wine Gallery from 5–7 p.m. to view and purchase the artwork created during the tour, mingle with the artists, and enjoy live music by Jazz and Classical guitarist, Quinn Parsley. No ticket required.

“This event is all about celebrating the beautiful gardens that come to life each year with native plants and how they attract not only pollinators but community too,” said Margot Resto, Executive Administrator and planner of the Pollinator Garden Tour at Lower Shore Land Trust.

“The theme this year is ‘Small Spaces, Big Impact,’ highlighting that whether you have a tiny container

space or a full-sized garden, you can make a significant impact on the health and survival of our essential pollinators. All of these gardens are really a part of a much larger patchwork of gardens.”

Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 at the door new this year $10 for children 12 years and under.

Elks scholarships

Winners were recently announced in the Most Valuable Student Scholarship competition sponsored by the Elks National Foundation and Ocean City Elks Lodge #2645.

Due to the continued generosity of lodge members and organizations, the lodge was able to award $25,000 to eight students from Stephen Decatur High School who represented the lodge in the local, district, state and national competition.

Students awarded were Keagan Shump, $6,000; Brooke Berquist, $5,000; Bryce Gill, $5,000; Evan Todd, $2,500; Payton Piercey, $2,500; Anika Karli, $2,000; Daisey Pugh, $1,000; and Marley Noonan, $1,000.

The Scholarship Committee wishes to thank all members and lodge organizations who faithfully contribute to our scholarship fund each year. Our main fundraiser is the Carroll Wagner Scholarship Golf Tournament

Worcester Prep, U.S. Navy graduate to speak at event

Ocean Pines will again host area’s largest Memorial Day ceremony Monday morning

(May 16, 2025) The largest Memorial Day ceremony in the region returns to the Worcester County Veterans Memorial in Ocean Pines, on Monday, May 26, starting at 11 a.m.

The event each year draws thousands of people to the memorial grounds and features music, demonstrations, and public speakers honoring U.S. Military men and women who gave their lives in service.

“Memorial Day honors all who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our county,” Veterans Memorial Foundation President Marie Gilmore said.

“This year’s ceremony, as those before it, will honor the brave men and women who served our country and lost their lives in doing so.”

Gilmore said the keynote speaker this year will be retired U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander Robert J. Rosales, a Naval Academy graduate who grew up in Seaford, Del. and attended then-Worcester Country School (now Worcester Prep).

The ceremony will also honor local Gold Star families. During World War I, families would fly flags or banners with a blue star for every immediate family member serving in combat. If one of them died, a gold star replaced the blue star.

Walter Webster, a member of the Maryland East Chapter of Ex-POWs, will place a wreath in honor of all current and former prisoners of war.

The program will also include patriotic music performed by Randy Lee Ashcraft, The Delmarva Chorus, Patrick Lehnerd a local performer and Seaside Christian Academy chorus.

The program is scheduled to run for one hour.

Public parking will be available at Veterans Memorial Park on Route 589 and Cathell Road in Ocean Pines. Limited seating will be available during the Memorial Day ceremony and guests are encouraged to bring chairs

In case of inclement weather, the Memorial Day ceremony will move to the Ocean Pines Community Center and be announced on the www.oceanpines.org and www.wocovets.org websites and on social media.

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Large open floor plan unit with new carpet just a short walk to the beach! Kitchen granite countertops, SS appliances & lots of cabinet space. Indoor pool, elevator, large balcony & storage for bikes & beach gear. With the modern amenities, this condo has everything you need & more. Enjoy income from this year’s rentals already booked. Yearly income average $50,000$60,000! For rental income or to schedule a viewing, contact me today. Start living the beach life you've always dreamed of!

$525,000

HAPPINESS

Safety campaign launched in OC

MONDAY 9:30PM

(May 23, 2025) As the anticipation for the upcoming summer vacation season builds throughout the state, Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) leaders joined Ocean City officials last Friday to renew

public awareness on safety through the 2025 Walk Smart, Drive Smart, Bike Smart campaign.

The message is simple: A great vacation starts with safe choices on the road.

THURSDAY 9:30PM

WEDNESDAY 9:30PM Madame Dutchess Beats By Connair

Gathered at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center, Maryland transportation leaders including State Highway Administrator Will Pines and Motor Vehicle Administrator Chrissy Nizer, as well as Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan and Police Sergeant Nathan Kutz, reminded residents and visitors to stay alert and watch out for one another — on foot, behind the wheel or on two wheels.

“This campaign is about more than signs and slogans — it’s about protecting people,” said Administrator Nizer, who serves as Governor Wes Moore’s Highway Safety Representative. “We want families and friends to enjoy everything Ocean City has to offer, and that begins with a strong commitment to safety from all of us — whether we’re crossing the street, driving down Coastal Highway or biking to the boardwalk.”

The campaign complements MDOT’s Serious about Safety program – a sharpening of focus on safety through an enhanced, department-wide initiative to further drive MDOT’s safety goals and save lives.

This year’s campaign, led by the familiar Cheswick the Crab mascot, brings a renewed emphasis on community accountability and the importance of Maryland’s four Es of traffic safety: engineering, education, enforcement and emergency medical services. The goal of the campaign is to prevent crashes and save lives along MD 528 (Coastal Highway) and other high-traffic corridors throughout Ocean City.

“Ocean City is a place where lifelong memories are made and we want to make sure these nice memories continue,” said Pines, “But a single unsafe decision can change everything. We’re proud to continue

Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan and state transportation officials issued a series of safety reminders last week ahead of the summer season.

State officials review projects

partnering with the town to make smart infrastructure upgrades and promote safety for drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and everyone using the roadways.

Thanks to additional transportation resources provided in Governor Wes Moore’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget, the Department of Transportation is investing in projects and policy reforms that will improve the safety and reliability of the network, spur economic growth and ensure our transportation system is in a state of good repair.

The State Highway Administration has made substantial engineering safety improvements in Ocean City over the years to protect vulnerable users. In 2018, the department constructed 2.7 miles of median wave fencing on Coastal Highway between Convention Center Drive and 62nd Street to deter mid-block crossings and added enhanced LED street lighting in the center median to enhance illumination of the entire roadway.

Other improvements include updating and adding highly visible continental crosswalks along Coastal Highway between 17th and 67th streets, reconstructing sidewalk

See OC Page 48

OC smart campaigns underway

Continued from Page 47

ramps and medians at the Coastal Highway and 118th Street intersection, retracing all existing crosswalks and stop bars on Coastal Highway and improving pavement on Baltimore Avenue between North Division and 15th streets.

Most recently, the State Highway Administration hosted a public informational workshop in Ocean City in January to provide information and gather community input for additional pedestrian and bicyclist access and safety improvements along MD 528 from 15th Street to 67th Street as part of the state’s Pedestrian Safety Action Plan (PSAP) initiative. The program identifies areas of need and prioritizes corridors across Maryland for safety enhancements.

Based on feedback gathered at the workshop and through an online survey, the project is now in the design phase, and agency will present proposed improvements and preliminary designs for additional public feedback by the end of the year.

“Ocean City is proud to once again partner with the Maryland Department of Transportation on the Walk Smart, Drive Smart, Bike Smart safety campaign. Safety is our top priority—for our residents, visitors, and seasonal workers. We’re committed to promoting awareness and encour-

aging everyone to stay alert, follow the rules, and make smart choices whether walking, biking, or driving in our community,” said Ocean City Mayor Meehan.

Each summer, the weekend population in Ocean City swells from 6,900 residents to, on average, more than 300,000 people. Town officials want those visiting for a day, week, weekend or longer to have a memorable time – which starts with having a safe visit.

In fact, during any given summer weekend, Ocean City becomes the second most populated Maryland city.

“The Ocean City Police Department is proud to support the Walk Smart campaign and remain committed to ensuring our roads are safe, accessible, and family-friendly for everyone.

This summer, residents and visitors will see our officers actively engaging in strong enforcement and public education efforts.

Whether it’s reminding drivers to buckle up, cracking down on distracted or impaired driving, or distributing bike lights to promote visibility. Our goal is simple: to prevent tragedies and keep Ocean City a safe destination for all,” said Deputy Communications Manager Ashley Miller.

Acadia Landing LEWES, DE

Now Selling Single Family Homes fromtheUpper$400s rtty east MILLSBORO, DE Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Low $400s

from the Upper $400s

Bridgewater SELBYVILLE, DE

Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Mid $500s

Draper Farm MILFORD, DE

Coming Soon Single Family Homes and Villas

Milos Haven FRANKFORD, DE

Now Selling Villas from the Low $400s

Newdale acres ELLENDALE, DE

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

Pelican Point MILLSBORO, DE

Plantation Lakes ryyClub

Golf & Countr

MILLSBORO, , DE

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

Schooner Landing

SELBYVILLE, DE

MIL

Heritage creek LTTON, DE

Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Upper $400s

High Tide at lighthouse bay

OCEAN CITY, , MD

T Y

New Phase Toownhomes from the Mid $700s andT , and T O

Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Mid $300s

Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Upper $300s Maarylan

lakeside at trappe

TRAPPE, MD

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

Tides at River Marsh

CAMBRIDGE, MD

Now Selling Single Family Home Toownhomes from the Uppe

BETHANY BEACH BOOKS

Summer Author Signings

All Events at 6:30 pm unless otherwise noted Events marked with an * denote a ticketed/rsvp event

Tickets & more details can be found at

www.bethanybeachbooks.com

May 23 - Story Time with Ms. Lesley, 10am

May 24 - Mary Alice Monroe*, Where the Rivers Merge, 5pm

May 25 - Lucy Foley*, The Midnight Feast

May 28 - Brooke Lea Foster*, All the Summers in Between, 4pm

May 31 - Rosanne Hinch Storytime*, Look Who’s Going to School, 10am

June 7 - Brenda Foley, The Summer That Changed Everything, 11am

June 14 - Eliza Knight, Confessions of a Grammar Queen

June 15 - Kaira Rounda, Jill is Not Happy

June 18 - Kristin Harmel, The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau, 5pm

June 19 - Jennifer Crystal, One Tick Stopped the Clock

June 20 - Leah Kelly, Prices of Gold

June 21 - Patrice Gilbert, Rhyming Fun with Feelings, 11am

July 14 - Jane Rubin, Over There

July 16 - James Frey, Next to Heaven

July 18 - Walter Curran, Coming Ashore

July 19 - Lindsey Pope, Sully’s Strength

June 22 - Libby Klein, Vice and Virtue

June 23 - Gilbert Leidig, Jr Angels A Thirty Day Walk

June 24 - Gina Wilson, Silicone Valley East

June 25 - Thomas Guay, Chesapeake Bound

June 27 - Kate Myers, Salty

June 28 - Ashley Detweiler, This Kind of Love

June 29 - W.A. Simpson, The Hatter’s Daughter

June 30 - Molly Carson, By the Seaside

July 1 - Dr. Helen McKibben, Drop

July 2 - Kate Szegda, Pharmacy Girl

July 3 - Jack Bartley, Smoke on the Water

July 7 - Alicia Hilsher, Written in the Stars

July 8 - Catherine Miller, Under a Mermaid Moon

July 9 - Sarah Penner, The Amalfi Curse*

July 10 - Jacqueline Cassard, Two Blue Lines

July 11 - S.P. O’Farrell, The Simone LaFray Mysteries

July 12 - Colleen Marie, Kayleigh’s Knight

July 13 - Tony Sclama, Wrongful Acts

July 17 - Howard “Ed” Smyth, The March Storm of ‘62

July 21 - Sofie Wells & Ali Barclay, The Tales of Charlie Wags

July 22 - Irv Smith, Pensacola Days

July 23 - Melissa Roos, Tennessee Wishes

July 24 - Andrea Goos, The Summer You Were Mine

July 25 - Carol & Cori Burcham, Goodness Gracious Golly Gee, I Forgot My Christmas Tree

July 26 - Meg Edson, Zig Zag Zeph

July 27 - Jerry Lyons, Oh Baby!

July 29 - Lindsey Van Wagner, Spirit Vigilante

July 28 - Katherine Ruskey, If You Give a Crab a Seashell

July 30 - Stephanie Guzman, Olive the Clownfish Series

July 31 - Shelby Cooke, Screen Britain

August 1 - Stephanie Thompson, Woven

August 2 - Tasha Haight, Mermaid Tasha’s Mission

August 3 - Tom Doyle, Happy to be Me

August 4 - Jon McGoran, The Price of Everything

August 5 - Sara Goodman Confino, Behind Every Good Man

August 7 - Kate Myers, Salty

August 6 - Jack Ford, Beyond this Place of Wrath

August 8 - Sarah Pekkanen & Hannah McKinnon

August 9 - Debbie Jennings, Share the Cheese

August 10 - Robert Monsheimer, Lilly’s Story

August 11 - Rick Spees, Capitol Gains

August 13 - Alison Humphreys, 50 Hikes with Kids

August 15 - J.R. Miller, Towers on the Beach

August 16 - Jenni Howell, Boys with Sharp Teeth

August 18 - Suzy Shaw, Mothers of Boys Survival Guide

August 20 - Erika Robuck, The Last Assignment

August 23 - Tracey Smith, Jordyn’s A to Z Affirmation Book

2024 Town Of Berlin Annual Drinking Water Quality Report

IS MY WATER SAFE?

We are pleased to present this year's Annual Water Quality Report (Consumer Confidence Report) as required by the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). This report is designed to provide details about where your water comes from, what it contains, and how it compares to standards set by reg ulatory agencies. This report is a snapshot of last year's water quality. We are committed to providing you with information because informed cus tomers are our best allies.

DO I NEED TO TAKE SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS?

Some people may be more vulnerable to contaminants in drinking water than the general population. Immuno compromised persons such as persons with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, persons who have under gone organ transplants, people with HIV/AIDS or other immune system disorders, some elderly, and infants can be particularly at risk from infec tions. These people should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers. EPA/Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines on appropriate means to lessen the risk of infection by Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available from the Safe Water Drink ing Hotline (800 426 4791).

WHERE DOES MY WATER COME FROM?

The Town of Berlin pumps your drinking water from three separate wells in town, the source of this water is the Pocomoke aquifer, which is ground water drawn from about 125 feet below the earth's surface. An aquifer is somewhat like an underground sponge composed of rocks, sand and of course water. The area between the surface and the water helps to filter and purify the water before it actually reaches the aquifer and pumped into our system.

SOURCE WATER ASSESSMENT AND ITS AVAILABILITY

The Town of Berlin has completed its well head protection report and passed an ordinance establishing protection areas and criteria. A copy of the well head protection program and ordinance is available at town hall. Results of the assessment can be found on the MDE website: https://mde.maryland.gov/programs/Water/water_supply/Source_Water_A ssessment_Program/Pages/by_county.aspx

WHY ARE THERE CONTAMINANTS IN MY DRINKING WATER?

Drinking water, including bottled water, may reasonably be expected to contain at least small amounts of some contaminants. The presence of contaminants does not necessarily indicate that water poses a health risk. More information about contaminants and potential health effects can be obtained by calling the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800 426 4791).

The sources of drinking water (both tap water and bottled water) in clude rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels over the surface of the land or through the ground, it dissolves nat urally occurring minerals and, in some cases, radioactive material, and can pick up substances resulting from the presence of animals or from human activity: microbial contaminants, such as viruses and bacteria, that may come from sewage treatment plants, septic systems, agricultural livestock operations, and wildlife; inorganic contaminants, such as salts and metals, which can be naturally occurring or result from urban storm water runoff, industrial, or domestic wastewater discharges, oil and gas production, min ing, or farming; pesticides and herbicides, which may come from a variety of sources such as agriculture, urban stormwater runoff, and residential uses; organic Chemical Contaminants, including synthetic and volatile or ganic chemicals, which are by products of industrial processes and petro

PWSID # 0230001 - May, 2025

leum production, and can also come from gas stations, urban stormwater runoff, and septic systems; and radioactive contaminants, which can be nat urally occurring or be the result of oil and gas production and mining ac tivities. In order to ensure that tap water is safe to drink, EPA prescribes regulations that limit the amount of certain contaminants in water provided by public water systems. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations establish limits for contaminants in bottled water which must provide the same protection for public health.

HOW CAN I GET INVOLVED?

We want our valued customers to be informed about their water utility. If you want to learn more, please feel free to contact Jamie Latchum, Super intendent of Water at 410 641 3845 or email him at jlatchum@berlinmd.gov

SOURCE WATER PROTECTION TIPS

Protection of drinking water is everyone’s responsibility. You can help protect your community’s drinking water source in several ways: Eliminate excess use of lawn and garden fertilizers and pesticides –they contain hazardous chemicals that can reach your drinking water source.

Pick up after your pets.

If you have your own septic system, properly maintain your system to reduce leaching to water sources or consider connecting to a public water system.

Dispose of chemicals properly; take used motor oil to a recycling cen ter.

Volunteer in your community. Find a watershed or wellhead protec tion organization in your community and volunteer to help. If there are no active groups, consider starting one. Use EPA’s Adopt Your Watershed to locate groups in your community, or visit the Watershed Information Network’s How to Start a Watershed Team.

Organize a storm drain stenciling project with your local government or water supplier. Stencil a message next to the street drain reminding peo ple “Dump No Waste Drains to River” or “Protect Your Water.” Produce and distribute a flyer for households to remind residents that storm drains dump directly into your local water body.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR LEAD

An initial inventory of service line pipe materials located within our service area required to be submitted to the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) by October 16, 2024. We submitted the service line in ventory report by the deadline, and the “report is available upon request”. Berlin has completed the service line inventory required by U.S. EPA’s Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (initial inventory due October 16th, 2024) For more information on our service line inventory please call 410 641 3845.

Through completing a records review, it has been determined it has no Lead or Galvanized Replacement (GRR) service lines in its distribution sys tem. This includes all system owned and customer portions of all service lines regardless of actual or intended use.

Construction records, meter replacements, and distribution maps were used to help us determine the composition of our systems service lines.

Berlin has reviewed all applicable sources of information to complete the inventory and will continue to identify and track service line materials as they are encountered during normal operations. If, in the future, a Lead or Galvanized requiring replacement (GRR) service line is found within our system, we will prepare an updated inventory and submit to the Maryland Department of the Environment and in addition, the inventory will be made publicly available for water customers to view, and customer will be noti

fied of any change in the service line material, if applicable. For more information on our service line inventory please call 410 641 3845.

Lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead in drinking water is primarily from materials and components associated with service lines and home plumbing. Berlin is re sponsible for providing high quality drinking water and removing lead pipes, but cannot control the variety of materials used in plumbing compo nents in your home. You share the responsibility for protecting yourself and your family from the lead in your home plumbing. You can take responsi bility by identifying and removing lead materials within your home plumb ing and taking steps to reduce your family's risk. Before drinking tap water, flush your pipes for several minutes by running your tap, taking a shower, doing laundry or a load of dishes. You can also use a filter certified by an American National Standards Institute accredited certifier to reduce lead in drinking water. If you are concerned about lead in your water and wish to have your water tested, contact Berlin at 410 641 3845. Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize exposure is available at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.

The 5th Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR5) began testing for 29 PFAS compounds and lithium in 2023, and testing will run through 2025. The UCMR5 should test all community water systems with populations of at least 3300 people. Three randomly selected systems in Maryland with populations less than 3300 people will also be tested under the UCMR5. Detections greater than the minimum reporting levels for each constituent should be reported in the CCR.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR NITRATE

Nitrate in drinking water at levels above 10 ppm is a health risk for in fants of less than six months of age. High nitrate levels in drinking water can cause blue baby syndrome. Nitrate levels may rise quickly for short pe riods of time because of rainfall or agricultural activity. If you are caring for an infant, you should ask for advice from your health care provider.

The Maryland Rural Water Association’s State Circuit Rider assisted with the completion of this report.

WATER QUALITY DATA TABLE

In order to ensure that tap water is safe to drink, EPA prescribes regu lations which limits the amount of contaminants in water provided by pub lic water systems. The table below lists all of the drinking water contaminants that we detected during the calendar year of this report. Al though many more contaminants were tested, only those substances listed below were found in your water. All sources of drinking water contain some naturally occurring contaminants. At low levels, these substances are gen erally not harmful in our drinking water. Removing all contaminants would be extremely expensive, and in most cases, would not provide increased protection of public health. A few naturally occurring minerals may actually improve the taste of drinking water and have nutritional value at low levels. Unless otherwise noted, the data presented in this table is from testing done in the calendar year of the report. The EPA or the State requires us to mon itor for certain contaminants less than once per year because the concentra tions of these contaminants do not vary significantly from year to year, or the system is not considered vulnerable to this type of contamination. As such, some of our data, though representative, may be more than one year old. In this table you will find terms and abbreviations that might not be familiar to you. To help you better understand these terms, we have pro vided the definitions below the table.

TRUSTEE’S SALE

OF CONDOMINIUM UNIT

In accordance with the order in Case no. C-23-CV-25-000026 in the Circuit Court for Worcester County, the Trustee named below will sell at public auction to the highest bidder on Monday, June 9, 2025, at 4:00 p.m., at the front door of Oceanscape Condominium Unit No. 402, 16 64th Street, Ocean City, MD, all that property designated as Oceanscape Condominium Unit No. 402, together with an undivided percentage interest in the common elements, as established pursuant to a Condominium Master Deed and ByLaws, as amended, dated September 12, 2001, and recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland in Liber No. 3122, Folio 573, et seq., and pursuant also to the several plats described in the said Condominium Master Deed and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records in Plat Book No. 171, Folio 28, et. seq., as further described in a deed recorded at Book: 8417, Page 180, et seq., in “AS IS” condition, SUBJECT to all the liens, covenants, agreements, conditions, easements and restrictions as may appear among the land records of Worcester County, Maryland.

A deposit of $25,000.00 in cash or certified check will be required of the Purchaser at the auction. (A deposit will not be required if the successful bidder is the Plaintiff/secured party in this foreclosure action.) The balance in cash or cashier’s or certified check shall be paid within 20 days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, said balance to bear interest at the rate of ten percent (10%) per annum from the date of sale to the date of payment. Time is of the essence for the Purchaser. All real estate taxes, wastewater and water charges, and condominium assessments shall be adjusted as of the date of sale and assumed thereafter by the Purchaser. All settlement costs, including recordation and transfer taxes and recording fees, shall be paid by the Purchaser. Possession will be given upon payment in full of the purchase price. If Purchaser fails to pay the balance of the purchase price when due, the deposit shall be forfeited and the property resold at the risk and cost of the defaulting Purchaser.

For further information, you may contact Spencer Ayres Cropper, Trustee, 410-723-1400. OCD-5/22/3t _________________________________

COATES, COATES & COATES, P.A.

6200 Coastal Highway, Suite 300 Ocean City, Maryland 21842 410-723-6000

MORTGAGE

ASSIGNEE’S SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

1547 COLONA ROAD

POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851

Tax ID# 01-012800

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a Purchase Money Mortgage from Angela C. Revels, Trustee of the Ra’saan C. Revels Supplemental Needs Trust dated October 6, 2004 and Angela C. Revels, dated August 7, 2008 and recorded among the Land Records for Worcester County, Maryland in Liber No. SVH 5140, folio 047, et seq., with an original principal balance of $220,000.00, default having occurred under the terms thereof, W. Hank Fisher III, Esq., the undersigned Mortgage Assignee, will offer for sale at public auction to the highest bidder at the courthouse steps of the WORCESTER COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT, at the Courthouse Door, 1 W. Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863, on

JUNE 12, 2025 AT 10:00 A.M.

All that real property, together with any buildings or improvements thereon, located in Worcester County, Maryland, and more fully described in the aforesaid Purchase Money Mortgage.

The property will be sold in “AS IS” condition; subject to all covenants, conditions, liens, easements, rights of way, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, as well as governmental ordinances, rules and regulations and subject further to any matters which would be revealed by an accurate survey of the property. Neither the Mortgage Assignee nor his respective agents, successors or assigns make any representations or warranties, either expressed or implied with respect to the property, including without limitation, description, use, physical conditions or to the environmental conditions of the subject property. The purchaser at the foreclosure sale shall assume the risk of loss for the above referenced property after the date of sale. Neither the Mortgage Assignee nor the auctioneer shall accept any responsibility for any municipal, state, or federal environmental violations.

TERMS OF SALE: A deposit of TEN THOUSAND Dollars ($10,000.00) cashier’s or certified check or any other method acceptable to the Mortgage Assignee shall be required at the time of sale, with balance payable within THIRTY (30) days after final ratification of the sale, the deferred payment to bear interest at the rate of six percent (6%) per annum from the day of sale. In the event the secured party is the successful bidder, the $10,000.00 deposit shall not be required. Adjustment of current year real property

taxes and other public and/or private charges or assessments, including water/sewer charges, will be made as of the date of sale and thereafter assumed by the purchaser. All other public and/or private charges or assessments, including water/sewer charges, incurred after the sale, and all other costs incidental to settlement to paid by the purchaser. All title papers, recordation taxes, transfer taxes, and recording costs to be at the expense of the purchaser. Possession will be given upon full payment of the purchase price, or final ratification of sale by the Court, whichever shall last occur. Time is of the essence for the purchaser, and in the event the purchaser defaults in payment, then the property shall be resold at the risk and cost of the defaulting purchaser. If the sale is not ratified or the Mortgage Assignee is unable to convey good and marketable title, the purchaser’s sole remedy in law or equity shall be limited to the refund of the applicable deposit to the purchaser. Upon refund of the deposit, this sale shall be void and of no effect, and the purchaser shall have no further claim against the Mortgage Assignee. Case. No. C-23-CV-25-000034

W. HANK FISHER III, Mortgage Assignee OCD-5/22/3t _________________________________

ROBINS & ROBINS, P.A. 128 East Main Street Salisbury, Maryland 2l801

SECURED PARTY’S SALE OF MOBILE HOME

1996 Cedr Mobile Home Trailer

The Farmers Bank of Willards (“Secured Party”) will offer for sale at public auction a 1996 Cedr Mobile Home Trailer registered in the name of Brian Douglas Gifford located at Lot 18 Four Seasons Park, 12024 Ocean Gateway, Ocean City, MD 21842, together with 115 shares of stock in Four Seasons Park, Inc., with proprietary lease appurtenant to stock ownership. [Note: Park rules prohibit the lease of any lot to a person who does not own stock in the corporation.] The auction will be held at the aforesaid location of the mobile home on

TUESDAY, JUNE 3, 2025 AT THE HOUR OF 10:00 A.M.

TERMS OF SALE. The property will be sold to the highest bidder, who will be required to tender on account of the purchase price at the time and place of sale cash, certified funds, or check acceptable to the undersigned, in the amount of Ten Thousand Dollars ($10,000.00), with the balance of the purchase price to be paid on or before June 20, 2025. Buyer shall be entitled to possession upon payment of the purchase price in full, time being of the essence. Real Estate taxes for the current fiscal year re Lot 18 will be pro-rated to the date of closing.

Secured Party makes no representations or warranties, express or

implied, with respect to the mobile home. The successful bidder(s) will take the mobile home in its AS IS and WHERE IS, with all faults and defects, if any. Take notice, the mobile home is situated within the Four Seasons Park and is therefore subject to the park’s rules. The successful bidder(s) may or may not be approved as tenants of the mobile home park. If the mobile home is to be placed in a mobile home park, the park may have rules and lease provisions that affect you and the mobile home. You should contact the park office to obtain and carefully review a copy of the lease and rules for the park before you enter into a contract to purchase a mobile home. Due to land restrictions in some areas in the State, a mobile home may be placed only on property that is within a mobile home park.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, please contact Mary W. Dryden, AVP Special Assets for The Farmers Bank of Willards, at 410835-8906. For information regarding the lease and park rules, contact Charles Aldinger at 717-683-8807. Pete Richardson Auction Sales, Inc. 410-546-2425

OCD-5/15/3t

Webb, Wilber, Mathers, Illuminati & Lukas, LLP 115 Broad Street, Salisbury, MD 21801 (410) 742-3176

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE’S SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

154 Channel Buoy Road, Ocean City, MD 21842

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Purchase Money Mortgage from DE MD, LLC dated September 9, 2022 and recorded in Liber 8467, Folio 370 et. seq., among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Substitute Trustee will sell at public auction at Circuit Court for Worcester County, Courthouse Door, Snow Hill, MD, on Tuesday, June, 3 2025 at 11:00 a.m. o’clock

ALL that lot or parcel of land lying and being situate in the Town of Ocean City, in the Tenth Tax Election District, Lot No. 39 in Section KK on the Plat of Caine Keys II, together with any buildings or improvements thereon and more fully described as ITEM ONE in the aforesaid Purchase Money Mortgage Deed of Trust, carrying Tax ID No. 10-107466.

The Property will be sold in an “as is” condition and subject to conditions, restrictions, agreements, easements, covenants and rights of way of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranty of any kind. TERMS OF SALE. A bidder’s deposit of 10% of the sale price will be required at the time of sale in the form of cash, certified check, or other form as the Substitute Trustee de-

termines acceptable. No deposit shall be required of the noteholder where the noteholder bids in the property at auction. Balance of the purchase price to be paid within ten days of final ratification of sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, time being of the essence for the purchaser. In the event that settlement does not occur within the said ten days, the purchaser shall be in default. Upon such default the Trustee may file a Motion and Order to Resell the property at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser, and purchaser(s) hereby consent to entry of such resale order without further notice, in which case the deposit shall be forfeited and all expenses of this sale (including attorney’s fees and the full commission on the gross sale price of this sale) shall be charged against and paid out of the forfeited deposit. The Trustee may then readvertise and resell the property at the risk and cost of the defaulting purchaser; or, without reselling the property, the Trustees may avail themselves of any legal or equitable remedies against the defaulting purchaser. In the event of a resale, the defaulting purchaser shall not be entitled to receive the surplus, if any, even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulting purchaser. Interest to be paid on the purchase money less the stated deposit called for herein, at the rate pursuant to the Deed of Trust Note from the date of auction to the date funds are received in the office of the Substitute Trustee. There shall be no abatement of interest due from the purchaser in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement or if settlement is delayed for any reason, including but not limited to exceptions to sale, bankruptcy filings by interested parties, Court administration of the foreclosure or unknown title defects. All taxes, ground rent, water rent, condominium fees and/or homeowner association dues, all public charges/ assessments payable on an annual basis, including sanitary and/or metropolitan district charges, if applicable, are to be adjusted to the date of auction and thereafter are to be assumed by the purchaser. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes, agricultural transfer tax, if any and settlement expenses shall be borne by the purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. Purchaser assumes the risk of damage to the property from the date of auction forward. If the Substitute Trustee does not convey title for any reason, including but not limited to the Secured Party executing a forbearance agreement with the borrower(s) to execute their right to reinstate or payoff the subject loan, prior to sale, with or without the Substitute Trustee’s prior knowledge, or if the sale is not ratified for any reason including errors made by the Substitute Trustee, the foreclosure sale shall be null and void and of no effect, and the Purchaser’s sole remedy in law or in equity shall be the return of the deposit without interest. Further terms and particulars may be announced at time of

sale, and purchaser may be required to execute a Memorandum of Sale at the time of auction.

Erica Witz, Substitute Trustee

Willie Benton, Auctioneer Eastern Shore Auctions, Inc. 443-235-5717

OCD-5/15/3t

McCabe, Weisberg & Conway, LLC

312 Marshall Avenue, Suite 800 Laurel, MD 20707

www.mwc-law.com

SUBSTITUTE

TRUSTEES’ SALE OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY

5 EVERGREEN COURT BERLIN, MD 21811

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from Kelley E. Galyen a/k/a Kelley E. Gaylen, dated December 26, 2006 and recorded in Liber 4859, folio 684 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, default having occurred under the terms thereof and at the request of the parties secured thereby, the undersigned Substitute Trustees will offer for sale at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on MAY 27, 2025 AT 3:55 PM

ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND AND THE IMPROVEMENTS THEREON situated in Worcester County, Maryland and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The property is improved by a dwelling.

The property, will be sold in an "as is" condition and subject to conditions, restrictions, easements, encumbrances and agreements of record affecting the subject property, if any, and with no warranty of any kind.

Terms of Sale: A deposit in the form of cashier's or certified check, or in such other form as the Substitute Trustees may determine, at their sole discretion, for $8,000 at the time of sale. If the noteholder and/or servicer is the successful bidder, the deposit requirement is waived. Balance of the purchase price is to be paid within ten (10) days of the final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland. Interest is to be paid on the unpaid purchase price at the rate of 5% per annum from date of sale to the date the funds are received in the office of the Substitute Trustees, if the property is purchased by an entity other than the noteholder and/or servicer. If payment of the balance does not occur within ten (10) days of ratification, the deposit will be forfeited as liquidated damages. The purchaser agrees that the property may be resold pursuant to an order of court, waives personal service upon themselves and/or any principal or corporate designee of any documents filed regarding the failure to pay the purchase price within ten (10) days of ratification and expressly agrees to accept serv-

ice by first class mail of said documents at the address provided by the purchaser in the Memorandum of Sale. The purchaser will not be entitled to any surplus or profits arising from the resale even if they are the result of improvements made by the purchaser. There will be no abatement of interest due from the purchaser in the event settlement is delayed for any reason. Taxes, ground rent, water rent, and all other public charges and assessments payable on an annual basis, including sanitary and/or metropolitan district charges, and front foot benefit charges, if applicable, to be adjusted for the current year to the date of sale, and assumed thereafter by the purchaser. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale. The purchaser shall be responsible for the payment of the ground rent escrow, if required. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes (including agricultural transfer taxes, if applicable), and all settlement charges shall be borne by the purchaser. The sale is subject to a post sale audit of the loan, including but not limited to an analysis of whether the borrower entered into a loan modification agreement, filed bankruptcy, reinstated or paid off the loan prior to the sale. The Substitute Trustees will convey either insurable or marketable title. If the Substitute Trustees are unable to convey insurable or marketable title or, the post sale audit concludes that the sale should not have occurred, or the sale is not ratified by the court for any reason, the purchaser’s sole remedy in law or equity shall be limited to the refund of the deposit without interest even if the purchaser has made improvements to the property. Upon refund of the deposit, the sale shall be void and of no effect, and the purchaser shall have no further claim against the Substitute Trustees. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. The purchaser at the foreclosure sale shall assume the risk of loss for the property immediately after the sale. (Matter #2013-42873).

Laura H. G. O'Sullivan, et al., Substitute Trustees

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B. RANDALL COATES ESQ COATES, COATES, & COATES 204 WEST GREEN STREET P O BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of ALEXANDER ALONZO WATERS JR Estate No. 20641 Notice is given that BARRY WATERS whose address is 114 MORGAN RUN SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1262 was on MAY 01, 2025 appointed Personal

Representative of the estate of ALEXANDER ALONZO WATERS JR who died on MARCH 26, 2025 with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 1st day of NOVEMBER, 2025

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

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NOTICE

OF

APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of WILSON LEVERING SMITH III Estate No. 20639 Notice is given that SHERI LYNN SMITH WHETZEL whose address is 7502 FRIENDS LN, EMMITSBURG, MD 21727-9721 was on APRIL 30, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of WILSON LEVERING SMITH III who died on APRIL 14, 2025 with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 30TH day of OCTOBER, 2025.

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

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

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

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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY

ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE

SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

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NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 20638 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JOYCE R. SHAFFER

AKA: JOYCE RAY SHAFFER

Notice is given that William L. Frick, 9927 Stephen Decatur Hwy., Ste. 13, Ocean City, MD 21842-9351, was on April 29, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Joyce R. Shaffer who died on April 06, 2025, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 29th day of October, 2025.

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.

William L. Frick

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: May 08, 2025

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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of MACON CHANDLER CARRICK Estate No. 20109 Notice is given that CATE NELLANS whose address is 26 BROAD ST., BERLIN, MD 21811-1030 was on MAY 01, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MACON CHANDLER CARRICK who died on JANUARY 24, 2024 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 1st day of NOVEMBER, 2025. 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

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VICTORIA L. O’NEILL ESQ.

AYRES JENKINS GORDY & ALMAND P.A.

6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY SUITE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 16445 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MARY ANN ARMSTRONG

Notice is given that Lori B. Armstrong, 4821 Babylon Rd., Taneytown, MD 21787-1411 and Lisa Joan Armstrong, 2425 Pine St., Philadelphia, PA 19103-6416, were on May

05, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mary Ann Armstrong who died on February 05, 2016, 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 5th day of November, 2025.

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.

Lori B. Armstrong Lisa Joan Armstrong Personal Representatives True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: May 08, 2025

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CHRISTOPHER T WOODLEY ESQ

WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON 3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES ESTATE NO. 20655

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the court of SUSSEX COUNTY, DELAWARE appointed (1) KATARZYNA BORON HEMMING whose address is 37090 JOHNSON RD SELBYVILLE, DE 19975-3525 as the PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE of the Estate of ALBERT W WESTBROOK who died on AUGUST 01, 2024 domiciled in DELAWARE, USA

The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is (1) CHRISTOPHER T WOODLEY whose address is 3509 COASTAL HWY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3334. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: WORCESTER AND

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTIES.

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-5/8/3t

CHERYL A. JONES ESQ. CJ LAW 9515 DEERECO RD., STE. 405 TIMONIUM, MD 21093-2152

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20653 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF HOPE M. MAINOLFI

Notice is given that Nanette K. Serio, 9945 Hilltop Dr., Baltimore, MD 21234-1812, was on May 06, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Hope M. Mainolfi who died on March 05, 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 6th day of November, 2025.

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.

Nanette K. Serio 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: May 08, 2025

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MAUREEN F.L. HOWARTH AYRES, JENKINS, GORDY & ALMAND, P.A.

6200 Coastal Highway, Suite 200 Ocean City, Maryland 21842

NOTICE OF TAX SALE

OF PROPERTY IN THE TENTH ELECTION DISTRICT, SUBDISTRICTS 101-109, WORCESTER COUNTY, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND

Town of Ocean City, Maryland municipal taxes and assessments under levies of the tax years 2022/2023, 2023/2024 & 2024/2025 on the properties hereinafter described being due and in arrears and unpaid; and in order to compel the payment of the same, together with interest thereon, Attorney and Advertising Fees of $258, and the costs of attending the proceeding, as provided by law, by virtue of the power and authority vested in me as the City Manager and Collector of municipal taxes in the Tenth Election District, Worcester County, Ocean City, Maryland as provided by the Acts of the General Assembly of Maryland (Tax-Property Article Section 14-808 et seq. of the Annotated Code of Maryland), the undersigned City Manager and Collector of Taxes, will sell at public auction, at City Hall, 3rd Street and Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland, on

FRIDAY, JUNE 13, 2025 AT THE HOUR OF 10:00 A.M.

the below described properties: Item 3 10-258383 and 15457540150: Described as Trader’s Cove Condominium, Unit 3, Section B, 303 Seabay Lane, Assessed to Barrett Christian Grieb & Cassie Marie Chance, Assessed Value $393,100, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $2,124.72.

Item 4 10-297869 and 11244947066: Described as Hialeah Park Condominium, Unit 4, 502 142nd Street, Assessed to Krawczyk, LLC, Assessed Value $128,767, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $926.73.

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JAMES W. ALMAND ESQ

AYRES JENKINS GORDY & ALMAND, PA

6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 200

OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 20659

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF DONNA LOEWE RIPPLE

Notice is given that Joseph Roland Ripple, 4042 Jones Rd., Pocomoke City, MD 21851-2410, was on May 07, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Donna Loewe Ripple who died on February 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 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 7th day of November, 2025.

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

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

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

Joseph Roland Ripple 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: May 15, 2025 OCD-5/15/3t

Tax Certificate Consultants, Inc.

c/o James F. Truitt, Jr. 20 East Timonium Road, Suite 100 Timonium, Maryland 21093

Plaintiff v. The Testate and Intestate Successors of Helen C. Mills

U.S. Department of Agriculture

U.S. Department of Agriculture

U.S. Department of Agriculture 4108 MARKET ST. and Worcester County, Maryland (for Maryland Annotated Code 141836(b )( 1 )(v) purposes only) and

Any and all person having or claiming to have any interest in the fee simple in the properties and premises situate, lying and being in the County of Worcester described on the Tax Rolls Worcester County Collector of State and County Taxes for said County known as: 4108 Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, 2nd (Second) Election District, described as follows: all that lot of land and imps. PARCEL NUMBER: 02011425 PROPERTY

NOTICE TO MERCHANTS

Have you forgotten to renew your State of Maryland business license?

To avoid paying the mandatory penalty, please renew your license by May 30, 2025

The office will be closed on Monday, May 26, 2025, in observance of Memorial Day under State Law.

You can apply and renew business licenses online at Maryland Judiciary Business Licenses Online

https://jportal.mdcourts.gov/license/pbIndex.jsp

Susan R. Braniecki

Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, Maryland

DESCRIPTION: 100' X 286.05' X 85.84' X 258 SE SIDE R-394 S OF SNOW HILL IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY IN EQUITY

Case Number: C-23-CV-25-000123

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption In the following property 4108 Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863 in the County of Worcester, sold by the Collector of Taxes for the County of Worcester and the State of Maryland to the Plaintiff In this proceeding:

all that lot of land and imps. PARCEL NUMBER: 02011425 PROPERTY DESCRIPTION: 100' X 286.05' X 85.84' X 258 SE SIDE R-394 S OF SNOW HILL

The complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid.

It Is thereupon this 6th of May, 2025 by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Ordered, That notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this order in some newspaper having general circulation in Worcester County once a week for three (3) successive weeks, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 11th day of July, 2025, and redeem the property 4108 Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863 and answer the complaint or thereafter a final judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property, and vesting in the Plaintiff’s title, free and clear of all encumbrances.

Brian D. Shockley JUDGE

True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-5/15/3t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of JEFFREY C. CLAYPOOL AKA: JEFFERY C. CLAYPOOL Estate No. 20652 Notice is given that SAVANNAH MARIE CLAYPOOL whose address is 36411 DAVIS ST., WILLARDS, MD 21874-1106 was on MAY 05, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JEFFREY C. CLAYPOOL who died on MARCH 23, 2025 with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 5th day of NOVEMBER, 2025.

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

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B. RANDALL COATES ESQ

COATES, COATES, & COATES

204 WEST GREEN STREET P O BOX 293

SNOW HILL, MD 21863

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of THOMAS BRITTON GOFF

AKA: THOMAS BRITTON GOFF SR Estate No. 19835 Notice is given that TERESA GOFF whose address is 415 S CHURCH ST SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1208 was on MAY 07, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of THOMAS BRITTON GOFF who died on AUGUST 20, 2020 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 7th day of NOVEMBER, 2025

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-5/15/3t

RACHEL B. HARRIS ESQ. P.O. BOX 62

POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851-0062

SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

ESTATE NO. 20302

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF NICHOLAS JOHN CUSATO

Notice is given that John Cusato Sr., 35194 Wright Way, Millsboro, DE 19966-3866, was on May 13, 2025 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Nicholas John Cusato who died on August 02, 2024, with a will.

Further information can be ob-

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment 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.

John Cusato Sr. 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: May 22, 2025

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IN THE ORPHANS’ COURT FOR (OR) BEFORE THE REGISTER OF WILLS FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

IN THE ESTATE OF: DOROTHY MARIE SHOCKLEY ESTATE NO. 20537

NOTICE

OF JUDICIAL PROBATE

To all Persons Interested in the above estate:

You are hereby notified that a petition has been filed by Ernest C. Shockley, 28551 Crystal Lane, Milton, DE 19968-9681 for judicial probate of the will dated January 22, 2019 and 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 June 17, 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: May 22, 2025

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JOSEPH E. MOORE ESQ WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON 3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY

OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of PAULA H LYNCH Estate No. 20663 Notice is given that JENNIFER A LYNCH whose address is 100 ANN DR BERLIN, MD 218111008 was on MAY 14, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of PAULA H LYNCH who died on APRIL 25, 2025 with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 14th day of NOVEMBER, 2025

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

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TOWN OF BERLIN, MARYLAND NOTICE OF A PUBLIC HEARING ORDINANCE 2025-02 FISCAL YEAR 2026 BUDGET

AN ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF BERLIN, MARYLAND, A MARYLAND MUNICIPAL CORPORATION, APPROVING THE FISCAL YEAR 2026 BUDGET AS SUBMITTED.

The Ordinance will be introduced

for a First Reading on (*) Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at 6:00 PM. The Public Hearing on the Ordinance will be held on Monday, June 9th, 2025, at 6:00 PM. Both meetings will be held during Regular Meetings of the Mayor and Council at Berlin Town Hall, 10 William Street, 2nd Floor, Berlin, MD 21811.

(*) Rescheduled due to Memorial Day holiday.

The hearing is open to the public, and public testimony is encouraged. Persons with questions regarding this hearing may call 410-641-2770 for further information.

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GINA D. SHAFFER, ESQ. SHAFFER LAW OFFICE, LLC 11033 CATHELL RD. BERLIN, MD 21811-9328

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20668 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF LOUISE M. STRANG AKA: LOUISE MARIE STRANG

Notice is given that Joan M. Strang, 303 Piedmont Ct., Berlin, MD 21811-1691 was on May 16, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Louise M. Strang who died on March 29, 2025, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 16th day of November, 2025.

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.

Joan M. Strang 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: May 22, 2025

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NOTICE

OF PUBLIC HEARING CARES ACT ADDITIONAL FUNDING COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAMS

WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

The County Commissioners of Worcester County, Maryland will conduct a Public Hearing to obtain the views of citizens on activities to be submitted to the Maryland Community Development Block Grant Program for funds awarded through the federal CARES Act. The County was a recipient of previous funds and has the opportunity to apply for additional funds to be used for homeless and food programs and facilities. The hearing will be held on:

TUESDAY, June 3, 2025 AT 10:30 A.M. IN THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS’ MEETING ROOM ROOM 1101 – GOVERNMENT CENTER ONE WEST MARKET STREET SNOW HILL, MARYLAND 21863

Efforts will be made to accommodate the disabled and non-English speaking residents with 3 business days advance notice to Candace Savage, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer at 410-632-1194. WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

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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. 20669

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Surrogate’s court of Rockland County, New York appointed (1) Lisa Cavallo, 29 Rockford Dr., West Nyack, NY 10994-1126 as the Executor of the Estate of Barbara Damiani who died on December 22, 2022 domiciled in New York, USA.

The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is (1) Raymond D. Coates, 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 County.

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

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

(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written no-

tice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

(1) Lisa Cavallo

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: May 22, 2025

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SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20665 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF

JOSEPHINE M. ALEXANDER

AKA: JOSEPHINE MARIE ALEXANDER

Notice is given that Marla Harrington, 21215 Edgewood Ct., Sterling, VA 21065-7626, was on May 14, 2025 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Josephine M. Alexander who died on April 16, 2025, with a will.

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

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

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

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

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

Marla Harrington 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: May 22, 2025

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NOTICE TO CREDITORS

OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES ESTATE NO. 20664

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the court of PALM BEACH, FLORIDA appointed (1) MICHAEL SANDS whose address is 124 QUINCE MEADOW AVE., GAITHERSBURG, MD 20878-2386 as the PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE of the Estate of EDWARD SANDS who died on APRIL 22, 2024 domiciled in FLORIDA, USA

The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is N/A. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: WORCESTER

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

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

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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-5/22/3t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20649 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF THOMAS K. HOWARTH

Notice is given that Marsha R. Howarth, 605 S. Pacific Ave., Ocean City, MD 21842-5143, was on May 15, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Thomas K. Howarth who died on April 26, 2025, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 15th day of November, 2025.

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.

Marsha R. Howarth

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: May 22, 2025

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SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20667 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ROBERT A. DITTLER AKA: ROBERT ALAN DITTLER

Notice is given that Barbara Lally-Dittler, P.O. Box 4595, 4 104th Street, Unit 4, Ocean City, MD 21843-4595, was on May 15, 2025 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Robert A. Dittler who died on April 29, 2025, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment 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.

Barbara Lally-Dittler

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: May 22, 2025

MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL

NOTICE

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MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL

NOTICE

OF PROPOSED LEGISLATION ORDINANCE 2025-09

NOTICE is hereby given by the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill that Ordinance 2025-09 was introduced for first reading at a regular meeting on May 13th, 2025. A fair summary of the ordinance is as follows: An Ordinance of the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill (the "Town") Amending Chapter 193, Entitled Water and Sewers. the Mayor and Council to remove the capital improvement fee from Chapter 193 as it is in Chapter 131. The second reading will take place on June 10th, 2025 at the regular Town Hall meeting. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review at Town Hall, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863.

OCD-5/22/1t

MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL

NOTICE

OF PROPOSED LEGISLATION ORDINANCE 2025-08

NOTICE is hereby given by the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill that Ordinance 2025-08 was introduced for first reading at a regular meeting on May 13th, 2025. A fair summary of the ordinance is as follows: An Ordinance of the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill (the "Town") To Amend Chapter 131, Entitled Penalties, Fees, Fines and Other Charges, Section 131-4, Entitled Water Charges and Section 131-5, Entitled Wastewater Rates of the Code of the Town of Snow Hill, Maryland to increase the water and sewer rates as recommended by the Town’s Water and Sewer Rate Study. The second reading will take place on June 10th, 2025 at the regular Town Hall meeting. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review at Town Hall, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863.

OF PROPOSED LEGISLATION ORDINANCE 2025-05

NOTICE is hereby given by the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill that Ordinance 2025-05 was introduced for first reading at a regular meeting on May 13, 2025. A fair summary of the ordinance is as follows: An Ordinance of the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill (the "Town") Amending the Zoning District Map of the Town of Snow Hill to Fix an Incorrect Map Being Executed by Town Officials in 2021. The Mayor and Council of Snow Hill desire to correct this mistake in which Town officials signed an incorrect copy of the Zoning Map, and adopt the correct Official Zoning Map of the Town of Snow Hill. No zoning district of any property is being changed and this is solely correcting an error. The second reading will take place on June 10th, 2025 at the regular Town Hall meeting. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review at Town Hall, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863.

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SMALL ESTATE NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 16721

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF BETTY J. CZEBOTAR

Notice is given that Deborah J. Frost, 3912 Bayside Rd., Snow Hill, MD 21863, was on October 31, 2026 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Betty J. Czebotar who died on October 12, 2016, 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 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.

Deborah J. Frost

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: May 22, 2025

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ORDINANCE

2025-17

RE: Tents and Canopies of the Beach

Notice is hereby given by the Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, that Ordinance 2025-17 was introduced for first reading at their meeting of May 19, 2025. Second reading is scheduled June 2, 2025. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review in the Office of the City Clerk, City Hall 3rd Street and Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, or online at oceancitymd.gov in the May 19, 2025, agenda packet. This ordinance prohibits tents, except baby tents, on the beach; prohibits unattended canopies from being erected prior to 10:00 a.m. when lifeguards report for duty; prohibits canopy anchoring systems that do not stay within the footprint of the canopy; prohibits canopies larger than 10 feet by 10 feet; and prohibits placement of a canopy within three (3) feet of any side of another canopy.

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THE TOWN OF WILLARDS BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF ELECTIONS

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF THE TOWN OF WILLARDS RUNOFF ELECTION

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO THE ELECTORS OF THE TOWN OF WILLARDS, WICOMICO COUNTY, MARYLAND, THAT THE TOWN RUNOFF ELECTION FOR THE TOWN OF WILLARDS SHALL BE HELD ON TUESDAY, JUNE 10, 2025, FOR THE PURPOSE OF ELECTING ONE (1) TOWN COMMISSIONER FOR FOUR (4) YEAR TERMS. THE PLACE OF VOTING

SHALL BE THE TOWN OF WILLARDS TOWN HALL MEETING ROOM, LOCATED AT 7344 MAIN STREET, WILLARDS, MARYLAND. THE POLLS SHALL BE OPEN FOR PURPOSES OF VOTING FROM 7:00 A.M. UNTIL 7:00 P.M. ON ELECTION DAY.

RUNOFF ELECTION: The Town of Willards held a regular election for three (3) Town Commissioner positions on May 13, 2025. During the regular election there was a tie between two candidates for the third Town Commissioner position. As such, The Town of Willards will hold a runoff election.

REGISTRATION TO VOTE: All residents of The Town of Willards who are not registered voters of The Town of Willards and who qualify may register to vote with the Board of Elections for Wicomico County, 345 Snow Hill Road, Salisbury, Maryland, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.. Anyone not able to go into the office may obtain a registration form by calling (410) 548-4830.

UNCONTESTED ELECTION:

If, prior to the runoff election, there remains only one candidate, then no run-off election shall be held on June 10, 2025 as provided for in Section 207 of Article II of the Charter and assume the office of commissioner thereafter.

THE TOWN OF WILLARDS BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF ELECTIONS

Sandra Simpson, Chairman OCD-5/22/3t

TOWN OF OCEAN CITY

Beach Patrol returning to duty Saturday in Ocean City

By Kristin Joson Contributing Writer

(May 23, 2025) The Ocean City Beach Patrol will start guarding the 10 miles of beach this Saturday, May 24.

The Beach Patrol is on duty every day from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. You may have seen Beach Patrol activities around town before Memorial Day Weekend but that is our Surf Rescue Training Academy where we are preparing our rookie personnel to protect you and your family this season. We are eagerly anticipating the many visitors that will vacation in our resort town this summer. Sun worshipers, graduates, boogie boarders, surfers, beach enthusiasts and just about anyone that wants to get away for a relaxing and fun vacation will be arriving. Some have been planning all winter for their beach vacation and anticipate a picture-perfect week. The Beach Patrol has been preparing to begin our season, and our guards are ready to fulfill all three aspects of our mission: education, prevention, and intervention. This mission guides our organization. As a retired educator with Charles County Public Schools for over 32 years and 21 years as the Beach Patrol’s Public Education Coordinator, I know the importance of the first part of our mission. Education is not only one of the best gifts you can give someone, but it is also incredibly empowering. OC Today Dispatch has partnered with us for many seasons to help facilitate the educational part of our mission. Understanding the dangers that the ocean and beach environment presents allows a person to make decisions to keep themselves and their family safe while vacationing in Ocean City. Each week I will continue to share some of the most important things to remember to make your stay safe and enjoyable.

We provide education to the public though many outreach venues. Our Junior Beach Patrol program will return to a full roster of thirty campers for each session (due to the program’s popularity we added 2 additional sessions beginning in 2021). We will participate in the weekly Lifesaving Museum schedule, Sundaes in the Park, and have safety articles in multiple publications. We have also created educational beach and water safety placemats that you will see throughout Ocean City in many of the restaurants and hotels. However, our most impactful educational opportunities on the beach with our lifeguards performing their beach safety talks and the individual or small group “EDUs” that are performed daily when needed.

The second part of our mission is prevention. Preventive actions are the main tools for keeping the public safe and avoiding more serious situations. Our knowledge and expertise help us to inform the public that they are potentially getting into unsafe or dangerous situations before

we must intervene. To accomplish this, we must be willing to get off our stands and interact with the public. You can help your guard by following the local ordinances (rules) and laws, so they do not have to leave their stand as often, to ask you to stop a prohibited activity (that often the person already knows is not allowed such as smoking or drinking alcohol).

The final aspect of our mission, intervention, relies on the application of the lifeguard’s physical skills and training. Although executing the first two aspects of our mission reduces the likelihood that we will need to intervene, we know through experience that there will be instances on the beach when we will be re-

See LIFEGUARDS Page 64

This photo was taken last year at the annual patrol picture day, which has been held since the 1940s. Approximately 85% of last year’s lifeguards are returning this summer with an addition of 30 rookies in the first Surf Rescue Training Academy (SRA). One more SRA and a testing date for summer 2025 will be held on Saturday, May 31.

Lifeguards begin new season

Continued from Page 63

quired to perform first aid and water rescues as routine parts of our daily duties. Ocean City is a great place for a vacation, and we are in competition for the continued loyalty of our visitors. We will continue to do our part as lifeguards and as ambassadors for the Town of Ocean City. To get current information about the Beach Patrol, safety tips, as well as daily stats and current beach conditions, you can visit our website www.oceancitymd.gov/ocbp or follow us on Instagram or our Facebook page. We will

never know how many lives have already been saved by the lifeguards’ attentiveness. But you can help and do your part by reading our safety advice each week and sharing the information with others. We also encourage you to check in with the lifeguard each time you visit to learn about current conditions. Each day they write a beach or ocean tip on the back of their stand. We can’t wait to be a part of your wonderful experiences in Ocean City and always remember to “Keep your feet in the sand until the lifeguards in the stand.”

PHOTO COURTESY TOM LURIE

Who’s Where When

BUXY’S SALTY DOG & DRY DOCK 28

410-289-BUXY

28th Street Coastal Hwy.

Friday, May 23: John Cardo

Saturday, May 24: DJ Wax

Sundays: Local Party w/ DJ Deogee

CAPTAIN’S TABLE

410-289-7192

15th & Boardwalk

In The Courtyard Marriott

Fridays & Saturdays: Phil Perdue

COCONUTS BEACH BAR

410-289-6846

Oceanfront At Castle

In The Sand Hotel

37th & 38th Streets

Friday, May 23: Heather Vidal & Lime Green Band

Saturday, May 24: Blissful Wizards & Zion Reggae Band

Sunday, May 25:

Mutt Sanders & Bleech

Monday, May 26: The Dunehounds & The Rogue Citizens

Tuesday, May 27: The Jamn Brothers, The Permilla Project & 4th Tipsy Turtle Tuesday!

Wednesday, May 28: Jack Bannon & On The Edge

Thursday, May 29: The Jamn Brothers & All The Vibes Duo

COINS PUB

410-289-3100

28th Street Plaza On Coastal Hwy.

Friday, May 23: First Class

Saturday, May 24:

Jim Long Party & The Rockoholics

Sunday, May 25: John Schwartz

Monday, May 26: Teenage Rust & The Fabulous Rustettes

CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE

302-988-5000

37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54, Selbyville, DE

Sunday, May 25: Cup Of Joe

Wednesday, May 28: Fil Rhythm

CRAWL STREET TAVERN

443-373-2756

Wicomico St., Downtown O.C.

Friday, May 23: LNJ Sessions

Saturday, May 24: Rogue Citizens

FAGER’S ISLAND

410-524-5500

60th St., In The Bay

Friday, May 23: Crushing Day, Radio Hero & DJ RobCee

Saturday, May 24: Crushing Day, Radio Hero & DJ Vybe

Sunday, May 25: Vertigo Red, In Too Deep & DJ Cruz

Monday, May 26: The Klassix, DJ Hector & Sugar Jack

Tuesday, May 27:

Bryan Clark & DJ Hector

Thursday, May 29: DJ Groove

FISH TAILS

410-289-0990

22nd St., & Bay

Friday, May 23: DJ Hook

Saturday, May 24: DJ C-Miller

Sunday, May 25: Full Circle Duo

Tuesday, May 27: Opposite Directions

Best Beats On The Beach

THE KLASSIX

Fager’s Island: Monday, May 26

THE CHUCKS

Purple Moose Saloon: Friday & Saturday, May 23 & 24

THE DUNEHOUNDS

Coconuts Beach Bar: Monday, May 26

HIGHER EDUCATION

Pickles Pub: Friday, May 23

FULL CIRCLE

Seacrets: Friday, May 23 & Wednesday, May 28

Fish Tales: Sunday, May 25 (Duo)

LOST FIGURES

Harborside: Saturday, May 24 Jolly Jellyfish Beach Club: Tuesday, May 27 CRUSHING DAY Fager’s Island: Friday & Saturday, May 23 & 24

ZION RESGGAE

Coconuts Beach Bar: Saturday, May 24

STRATUS FEAR

Pickles Pub: Sunday, May 25

OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS

Harborside: Sunday, May 25

Who’s Where When

Wednesdays: DJ Wax

Thursday, May 29: Joe Wood

GREENE TURTLE WEST

410-213-1500

Route 611, West OC

Saturday, May 24: John Cardo

HARBORSIDE

410-213-1846

South Harbor Rd., West End O.C.

Fridays: DJ Billy T

Saturday, May 24: Lost Figures & DJ Bigler

Sundays: Opposite Directions & Charlie Travers

Wednesday, May 28: DJ Billy T

Thursdays: Dust N Bones

JOLLY JELLYFISH BEACH CLUB

443-664-6147

98th Street Coastal Hwy., Plaza Condominium

Friday, May 23: Lennon LaRicci & The Leftovers

Saturday, May 24: Chris Diller

Sunday, May 25: Big Deck Energy Party

Featuring The Rockoholics

Monday, May 26: First Class

Tuesday, May 27: Lost Figures

Wednesday, May 28: Joe Mama & The Friends

Thursday, May 29: Beach Bandits

PICKLES PUB

410-289-4891

8th St. & Philadelphia Ave.

Friday, May 23: Higher Education

Saturday, May 24: Lies From Granny

Sunday, May 24: Stratus Fear

Mondays: Karaoke w/ Wood Tuesdays: Beats By Wax

Wednesdays: Beats By Madame Dutchess

Thursdays: Beats By Connair

PURPLE MOOSE SALOON

410-289-6953

Between Caroline & Talbot Sts. On The Boards

Friday & Saturday, May 23 & 24: The Chucks

Saturday, May 24 (2pm): Sean Loomis

Sunday, May 25: Steve Oboyle (2pm) & Calling All Heros (10pm)

SEACRETS

410-524-4900

49th St. & Coastal Hwy.

Friday, May 23: DJ Connair, Full Circle, DJ Flight,The Zoo, DJ Mary Jane, DJ C-Miller, DJ Bobby O & Stealing Savanah

Fish Tales: Tuesday, May 27 GROOVEJOOSE

Caribbean Pool Bar: Friday, May 23

Saturday, May 24: DJ Connair, DJ Mary Jane, Stealing Savanah, Jah Works, Coming Alive, DJ E-State, DJ Bobby O & Lost In Paris

Sunday, May 25: DJ Davie, DJ Connair, Ryan Frick & Friends, Jah Works, My Hero Zero, DJ E-State, DJ C-Miller, DJ Bobby O & Lost In Paris

Monday, May 26: DJ Wax, Blake Haley & The Way Outs

Tuesday, May 27: DJ C-Miller & John McNutt Duo

Wednesday, May 28: DJ E-State, Full Circle Duo & The Benderz

Thursday, May 29: Faith Noel & DJ Flight

by Steve Green

IThe Adventures of Fatherhood

t’s the season of graduation speeches.

I think I have heard about 100 of them in my life, either in person or watched online. One speech from 2022 that still stands out to me is one I did not witness, but heard about soon after it ended.

A 24-year-old woman from New Jersey with non-verbal Autism, Bonker was one of Rollins College’s five valedictorians, achieving a perfect 4.0 GPA. The four other valedictorians requested Bonker deliver the speech during the graduation ceremony. She spoke through a text to speech program. It was amazing.

Her story hits close to home for my family as our 15-year-old son Carson is non-verbal with autism. He works with speech therapists multiple times a week and utilizes a device to articulate speech, although it brings severe anxiety for him.

I shared this woman’s speech a couple years back and I thought I would again as her message was sincere about service and making a difference, let alone the unique and inspiring manner in which she delivered it.

Here are some excerpts from the moving speech from this beautiful soul. I encourage you to search the internet for the full video.

“… today we celebrate our shared achievements. I know something about shared achievements because I am affected by a form of autism that doesn’t allow me to speak. My neuromotor issues also prevent me from tying my shoes or buttoning a shirt without assistance. I have typed this speech with one finger with a communication partner holding a keyboard. I am one of the lucky few non-speaking autistics who have been taught to type. That one critical intervention unlocked my mind from its silent cage, enabling me to communicate and to be educated like my hero Helen Keller.

During my freshman year, I remem-

ber hearing a story about our favorite alumnus, Mister Rogers. When he died, a handwritten note was found in his wallet. It said, “Life is for service.”

You have probably seen it on the plaque by Strong Hall. Life is for service. So simple, yet so profound.

Classmates, you have shared your passion for service within our community. Our friends in the sororities and fraternities raise money for so many worthy causes. Our friends at Pinehurst weave blankets for the homeless. The examples are too numerous to list. Rollins has instilled in all of us that service to others gives meaning to our own lives and to those we serve.

Viktor Frankl wrote about the power of sharing in his book, Man’s Search for Meaning. While suffering in the Nazi concentration camp at Auschwitz, he noted how, despite the horror, there were prisoners who shared their last crust of bread. He writes, “Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms — to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.”

We all have been given so much, including the freedom to choose our own way. Personally, I have struggled my whole life with not being heard or accepted. A story on the front page of our local newspaper reported how the principal at my high school told a staff member, “The retard can’t be valedictorian.”

Yet today, here I stand. Each day, I choose to celebrate small victories, and today, I am celebrating a big victory with all of you.

The freedom to choose our own way is our fundamental human right, and it is a right worth defending, not just for us, but for every human being.

I want to publicly thank Rollins College for taking a chance on me. For caring about every student. For being a place where kindness lives.

Dear classmates, today we commence together. But from here, we will choose our own ways. For me, I have a dream. Yes, just like Martin Luther

King, Jr., I have a dream: communication for all. There are 31 million nonspeakers with autism in the world who are locked in a silent cage. My life will be dedicated to relieving them from suffering in silence and to giving them voices to choose their own way.

What is your dream? … Whatever our life choices, each and every one of us can live a life of service—to our families, to our communities, and to the world. And the world can’t wait to see our light shine.

So, my call to action today is simple. Tear off a small piece from your commencement program and write “Life is for service” on it. Yes. We gave you the pens to really do it. Let’s start a new tradition. Take a photo and post it on social media. Then put it in your wallet or some other safe place, just as Mr. Rogers did. And when we see each other at our reunions, we can talk about how our commencement notes reminded us to serve others.

We are all called to serve, as an everyday act of humility, as a habit of mind. To see the worth in every person we serve. To strive to follow the example of those who chose to share their last crust of bread. For to whom much is given, much is expected.

God gave you a voice. Use it. And no, the irony of a non-speaking autistic encouraging you to use your voice is not lost on me. Because if you can see the worth in me, then you can see the worth in everyone you meet.

My fellow classmates, I leave you today with a quote from Alan Turing, who broke the Nazi encryption code to help win World War II. “Sometimes, it is the people no one imagines anything of who do the things no one can imagine.”

Be those people. Be the light! Fiat lux. Thank you.”

(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.)

By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer

(May 16, 2025) Ready or not the “official” start of the season begins on Friday, May 23.

Surf Rescue Technicians (SRT) also known as lifeguards, will be on duty this Memorial Day weekend. According to the Ocean City newsletter and community calendar, Saturday, May 24, 2025, will be the “1st day for beach patrol in the stands.”

For the surfer this means that surfing will be restricted, not permitted, from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. until approximately Labor Day. There are some exceptions to this rule. Two beaches are open to surfing each day and are conducted on a rotating schedule. A surfing beach is also available at the south end of town between the Inlet and pier, Monday through Friday, but not on weekends.

Another caveat to the restrictions is that, at times, beaches can be “modified” and surfing will be allowed during the normally restricted hours. At the beginning of the “season” the ocean water is usually on the cold side of comfort for swimming unless wetsuit gear is worn. The water has actually warmed rather quickly as of late and is currently in the low 60’s. It’s always subject to change due to upwellings but could be a reason for modification.

Inclement weather can also be a reason. In any case, a decision would come from speaking with a SRT on duty, or by calling beach patrol headquarters at 410-289-7556.

More information, such as surf beaches for the day, is available by entering “ocmd surf beach” on your preferred search engine. Lots of data can be found in this manner. Surfing is really a year-round activity, but hopefully the warmer season will be a good one.

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

Mem. Day event set for Sunday

(May 23, 2025) The Town of Ocean City will honor the brave men and women who sacrificed their lives in service to our country during a Memorial Day Ceremony on Sunday, May 25 at 1 p.m. The ceremony will be held at the Firefighters Memorial at North Division Street and the Boardwalk.

This year’s ceremony will feature remarks from Mayor Rick Meehan and Major General Janeen Birckhead, Adjutant General of the Maryland National Guard. Their words will reflect on the meaning of Memorial Day and pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the United States.

A highlight of the program includes a three-aircraft flyover of A-10 aircraft by the Maryland Air National Guard, a powerful and symbolic gesture honoring those who served. The event will also feature a performance by the 229th Maryland Army National Guard

Band, with a 15-piece ensemble delivering patriotic music throughout the ceremony. The National Guard will also have a vehicle display on-site.

Adding to the experience, the traditional wreath-laying ceremony will include a moving tribute from uniformed representatives of each division of the U.S. military. Each service member will carry and place a flowered wreath in front of their respective military insignia, honoring those from their branch who gave their lives in defense of our nation.

“Memorial Day is a time for all of us to come together as a community and remember the brave men and women who have given their lives for our freedom,” said Mayor Rick Meehan. “We are proud to welcome Major General Birckhead, the Maryland Air National Guard, and the 229th Maryland Army National Guard Band as we honor these heroes.”

Museum installing new exhibit

(May 23, 2025) The Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum has installed a new exhibit, scheduled to open on June 2, called “Sun and Sand: 100 Years of Bathing Suits.”

The exhibit showcases 100 years of bathing suits, and offers an up-close look at both men and women’s swimwear

from the late 1800s through the 1990s. Visitors will have the chance to see how swimwear reinvents itself through the decades, reflecting costumes, status and social norms. This exhibit is included in paid admission to the museum.

The museum is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

vanishing vanishing OCEAN CITY

With Bunk Mann

Clifford P. Cropper (1890-1957) was one of Ocean City's leading citizens and owner of the C.P. Cropper Fish and Oyster Company. Prior to the creation of the Inlet, he ran a pound fishing business on the oceanside while tonging for oysters in the winter on the Sinepuxent Bay.

When the Hurricane of 1933 destroyed his fishing camp between S. 3rd and S. 4th Streets he moved to the new West Ocean City harbor and continued a successful commercial fishing operation. It is said that Cropper continued paying taxes on his land beneath the Inlet's water up to his death in case the Inlet ever closed up again.

C.P. Cropper served as mayor of Ocean City from 1940 to 1944. Too old to serve in the military in WWII, he became a "Minuteman" and drilled with other local middle-aged men while checking on blackout arrangements and other wartime security measures along the beach and Boardwalk.

Cropper lived on N. Division Street with his wife and eight daughters (no sons) until his death in 1957. His descendants continue to play a prominent role in Ocean City today.

To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com. Photo of CP Cropper family circa 1940 courtesy David Dypsky

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

The first chilly pool dip of the year

Stocked shelves at a grocery store

A short, funny speech

Facebook memories

A baseball catcher’s mentality

When my kids get haircuts

Silly acronyms

The hype ahead of the NFL Draft

Reading newspapers from other countries

Being home during a storm

A smiling kid walking out of school

Free summer art on Saturdays

(May 23, 2025) The Ocean City Center for the Arts on 94th St. bayside, home of the nonprofit Art League of Ocean City, is inviting children and their families to free art activities on summer Saturdays. Reservations are not required.

Beginning on Saturday, May 31 and running until Saturday, Aug. 30, from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m.., the Arts Center will host free children’s craft projects with unique themes every week.

Upcoming events include May 31, make creative faces; June 7, press plants into clay; June 14, make popsicle stick airplanes for the OC Air Show; June 21, make bottle chimes; and June 28, make egg carton dragonflies.

Activities for the remainder of the year will be posted weekly on the Art League’s Facebook page.

“This is make-and-take event,” Rina Thaler, executive director of the Art League, said. “It’s a fun opportunity for children to engage their creative sides and make something special they can take home and be proud of with a special memory of Ocean City. We supply the materials and some creative ideas, and let the children take it from there.”

The projects will be outside in the Arts Center’s courtyard overlooking the bay, weather permitting, and

will move indoors on rainy days. All ages are welcome, but an adult must accompany a child. Seating is available for a maximum of 24 children at a time, and children will be given priority seating at the tables, with additional seating for adults on outside benches and inside the Arts Center.

The Art League recommends children wear appropriate clothing that will not be ruined by paint and glue.

More information about the free weekend art projects is available by calling the Arts Center at 410-5249433 or at OCart.org/events.

Water Aerobics Aerobics

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Morristown, N.J. residents Matthew and Edward Jones are pictured last summer.

COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

FARM EDUCATION

Mrs. Huyett and Ms. Carter's PreK-4 class at Ocean City Elementary has been learning about farm animals as part of their Animal Theme. Thanks to Four L's Farm, they were able to borrow baby chicks to observe, enjoy and watch grow. The children learned about the life cycle of a chicken and how to properly care for an animal. Pictured: Mrs. Huyett and Ms. Carter's class and prek-4 student, Austin Aperance.

READING

MODULE COMPLETED

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Ms. Santoni's kindergarten class at Ocean City Elementary ended its third reading module, America, Then and Now by writing informative paragraphs about how America has changed over time. The students included a topic statement, two details, and a conclusion to share what they learned about how home, school, and communication have changed in America.

LEGISLATORS THANKED

At the April 24 luncheon meeting of the Republican Women of Worcester County, the members saluted "Welcome Home" to our state legislators with certificates of appreciation. The legislators spoke of the results of the 2025 Maryland General Assembly and the impacts that its actions will have on our state and county. Pictured, from left, are Delegate Wayne Hartman, RWWC President Jean Delcher, State Senator Mary Beth Carozza, State Delegate Charles Otto and RWWC First Vice President Carol Frazier.

NEW DAR MEMBER

The General Levin Winder Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) welcomed its newest member during a recent luncheon meeting. Regent Sharon Moak and Chaplain Jane Bunting administered the oath of membership to Melissa Reid. She is a descendant of Lieutenant David Ball who contributed to securing American independence during the Revolutionary War. The DAR is a women’s service organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history, and securing America’s future through better education. Pictured, from left, are Bunting, Reid and Moak.

CLUB PARTICIPANTS

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC

OC SURF CLUB SCHOLARSHIPS

The Ocean City Surf Club recently awarded $40,000 to high school seniors at the Scholarship Awards Convocation at the Stephen Decatur High School. Pictured, from left, are Tommy Vach, president,

arship; and Gavin Buchheit, recipient of Environmental $10,000 scholarship.

SUBMITTED

The Art League of Ocean City had children painting rocks on Saturday, May 18, during Bay Day at White Horse Park in Ocean Pines. The children painted more

PHOTOS COURTESY

OC Surf Club; Anne Cook, outreach coordinator, OC Surf Club; Brooke Berquist, recipient of David Fey Memorial $10,000 scholarship; Chole Kohut, recipient of David Fey Memorial $10,000 scholarship (standing in for Chole is OC Surf Club Environmental mascot “Gill”); Molly Hoffman, recipient of Leadership $10,000 schol-

Dining Guide

■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$

■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted

DOWNTOWN

South end to 28th Street

■ BUXY’S SALTY DOG SALOON

DRY DOCK 28

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

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

Dock also features a full menu with soups, salads, kick starters, pierogis and craft pizza.

■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

A local tradition for over 60 years featuring hand cut steaks, premium lobster and perfectly prepared regional seafood. Breakfast daily 7:30-11 a.m. Open daily for dinner: Sunday through Thursday, 4-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4-10 p.m. Happy Hour, seven days a week, 4-6 p.m.

■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

American style local restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 25:30 p.m. Sunday’s early bird specials, all day and all night. Happy Hour; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. with food and drink specials. Open Monday through Friday, 2 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 11:30 a.m. Dine-in, carry out.

■ CORAL REEF RESTAURANT & BAR

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ CRAWL STREET

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

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

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

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

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

■ FISH TALES

2107 Herring Way, Ocean City, 410-289-0990, ocfishtales.com

Bayfront marina dining offered here with a huge menu to satisfy guests of all ages. Enjoy a drink from a hanging chair or fish tacos at your table while the kids play in a playground build in the sand. Food and drink menus offer enough of a variety to meet all needs.

■ HARBOR WATCH

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

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

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

■ PICKLES PUB

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ PIT & PUB

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

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

■ THE WEDGE BAR

806 S. Atlantic Ave, Ocean City, www.thewedgeoc.com

$-$$ | Full bar

Panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, bay and Assateague Island. Enjoy small plates, sandwiches and grilled burgers. Open Thursday through Sunday, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

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, 410-5247171, thebonfirerestaurant.com

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

■ COCONUTS BEACH BAR & GRILL

3701 Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 410-289-6846, castleinthesand.com

A tropical open-air patio steps from the beach. A unique place for lunch or dinner with a menu featuring all the customary items and a few Ocean City-based surprises. Guests can also enjoy beach service for lunch and cocktails. Be sure to check out the daily entertainment schedule.

■ FAGERS ISLAND

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

$$ | Full bar

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

■ HOOKED

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

A Common Ground Hospitality concept, a passion driven restaurant group servicing the coastal community. The goal is honor creativity and innovation by design. With passion at the heart of everything, unique dining concepts are paired with honest hospitality and well-made food sourced with fresh local ingredients and seasonal harvests. Craft and full bar available. Open daily 11:30 a.m.

■ LONGBOARD CAFÉ

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

$$-$$$ | Full bar

Casual Dining … Refined. Open for lunch and dinner. A wide range of gourmet burgers, innovative tacos, salads and sandwiches to full dinner entrees featuring fresh local fish prepared in a

variety of styles, beef, shellfish and pasta. All our sauces, salsas, dressings, etc. are meticulously house made. We use fresh local sources wherever possible and premium ingredients such as our chuck, brisket and short rib custom blended burgers. Closed Tuesday. Call for reservations.

■ MARLIN MOON RESTAURANT

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

$$ | Full bar

Winner of the Maryland People's choice award, Marlin Moon continues to offer its famous, locally loved dishes and famous happy hour. Enjoy creatively crafted cocktails, fresh selections from the raw bar and luscious desserts. Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m., featuring drink specials. Breakfast, 7:30-11:30 a.m.; Lite Fare, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Dinner, 4-10 p.m.; and Bar open noon to 11 p.m.

■ SEACRETS

49th Street, Ocean City 410-524-4900, www.seacrets.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Open Sunday through Friday at 11 a.m., 10 a.m. on Saturdays, close at 2 a.m. Enjoy a tropical atmosphere and dine under the palms in our outdoor, kid friendly dining area or try a Seacrets Beachin' Cocktails in the Bay with live music every day open to close. The club is open every night in the summer. Try our famous jerk chicken with homemade honey mustard sauce, Pushcart Trio, a true Jamaican dish or a hearty wrap, sandwich or delicious burger. We have it all at Seacrets.

■ ALBERTINO'S BRICK OVEN & EATERY

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ CAROUSEL OCEANFRONT HOTEL & CONDOS

118th Street, Ocean City 800-641-0011, www.carouselhotel.com

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

■ THE CRAB BAG

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ CRABCAKE FACTORY USA

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

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

■ JOLLY JELLYFISH BEACH CLUB

9800 Coastal Highway, Ocean City 443-6646147, jollyjellyfishbeachclub.com

Oceanfront bar with casual island style outdoor dining with awesome ocean views focused on cool beach vibes. Open for lunch and dinner and suitable for the entire family. Diverse menu available for every type of diner and featuring a cocktail menu with six housemade kegged cocktails. Every Sunday all summer features a “big deck energy party.” Entertainment daily, 4-7 p.m. Located in the Plaza Condominium with plenty of free parking.

■ VISTA ROOFTOP RESTAURANT

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

$$-$$$ | Full bar

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

FENWICK ISLAND

■ CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE

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

Same award-winning crab cakes and bloody marys. Enjoy waterfront dining. Full-service family restaurant, carry-out & sports bar. Outside seating available. Open daily year-round. Menu selections include crab cakes, prime rib, Philly-style cheese steaks, various seafood, kids menu plus full breakfast menu.

■ DIRTY HARRY’S

100 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island, DE, 302539-3020, Beach-net.com/dirtyharrys

$ | Kids’ Menu | Full bar

Don’t let the name fool you, the food is home cooking at its finest. Owned and operated by Ginny Swann and family for 19 years. Popular for the breakfast but getting rave reviews for lunch and dinner, too.

■ NANTUCKETS

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

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

■ TWINING’S LOBSTER SHANTY

Rte. 54, Fenwick Island, Del., 302-436-2305, twiningshanty.com

Reservations | Kids’ Menu

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

WEST OCEAN CITY

■ BREAKFAST CAFE

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

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

■ CANTINA LOS AGAVES MEXICAN GRILL

12720 Ocean Gateway #7, West Ocean City 410-390-3914, cantinalosagaves.com

$$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar

Ocean City’s newest Mexican restaurant and bar. Offering delicious and generous portions of the tastiest traditional and not so traditional #MexicanEats you have ever tried. Open daily at 11 a.m. Serving food until 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Bar open til 11 p.m.

■ DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND

West Ocean City: Route 50 east; Boardwalk locations: 501 S. Philadelphia Ave., 49th Street, 123rd Street, Ocean City, dumsersdairyland.com

This classic ice cream shop is a tradition for many families. Voted O.C.’s “Best Ice Cream” for the past 20 years, Dumser’s is celebrating decades of serving the shore, and the ‘40s-style décor takes you back in time. With locations throughout Ocean City, treating your tastebuds to this signature homemade ice cream is easy. The 49th and 124th streets locations offer vast lunch and dinner menus (breakfast too at 124th) in addition to a wide variety of ice cream treats.

■ GREENE TURTLE WEST

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

■ HARBORSIDE BAR & GRILL

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Home of the original Orange Crush drink with an extensive menu offers a wide variety of appetizers, fresh seafood, steak & pasta entrees, as well as juicy burgers and sandwiches. Whether seeking a full dining experience or just a crush or two, the team will be sure to take excellent care of you and yours.

Monday-Wednesday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thursday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

■ OC DINER 12744 Ocean Gateway, Rt 50 east, West Ocean City, 410-390-5112

Best homemade breakfast and lunch. Local’s favorite breakfast served all day. Kids’ menu. Dinein and carry-out. Open 7 days a week, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

UPTOWN 91st to 146th streets

Fried deviled eggs, caviar a nice surprise for summer

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer

(May 23, 2025) Memorial Day weekend is here, and I will be cooking for the family. It is hard to believe that it will be 10 years since the passing of my father. Life goes on but we never forget. I always try to include a dish that my father relished but at the same time add a twist for originality.

Dad and I adored caviar and every so often he would surprise me with a sampling of the finest fish eggs from all over the world.

My mother and sister could not fathom such a liking. Caviar is one of those foods that you either scarf it up or walk away in disgust. I am so thankful I developed a fancy for this delicacy.

That being said, deviled eggs are a tradition in our family. So, my next train of thought is how can I serve deviled eggs with a modern twist and at the same time honor my father.

Another sip of Pinot Noir leads me in the direction of fried deviled eggs with caviar.

Deviled eggs are an American classic and synonymous with warm weather celebrations. Before we continue, have you ever wondered how deviled eggs got their name?

Deviled eggs can be traced back to ancient Rome, where boiled eggs were seasoned with a spicy sauce.

The term “deviled” comes from an 18th century term that the Oxford English Dictionary used to describe a fried or highly seasoned dish.

Now that we have had our history lesson for the day, let us move onto specific tips for the perfect deviled egg. Believe it or not but fresh farm eggs are not good for boiling. The inner membrane of the egg sticks to the white, making it difficult to boil accurately. However, the adherence breaks down after a few days and then the recently hatched eggs are more suitable for cooking in hot water.

Choosing the right pot to cook your eggs is probably the most overlooked step in boiling eggs. Eggs should be placed in one layer, stacked eggs will result in uneven cooking. In addition, add enough water to cover the eggs by 1-inch.

Mustard is a key ingredient in deviled eggs: dry mustard, yellow mustard, and Dijon are the acceptable choices. Dijon has a light, sophisticated flavor that blends beautifully with the yolk filling and is highly recommended.

The rich egg yolk filling needs acid. Apple cider vinegar, white vinegar, and rice vinegar are possible choices. Rice vinegar has the necessary pungency

but does not over power the filling.

Piping the yolk filling is more pleasing to the eye than spooning the filling onto the whites. It is also a fun activity for the kids. Piping kits are inexpensive and a must in one’s kitchen.

The key to the frying process is to dust the egg whites in flour. This step acts as a glue for the egg wash.

In addition, once the egg whites are fried, place them on a cooling rack as opposed to a plate lined with paper towels. Soggy paper towels undermine the coveted crispy exterior.

The placement of the caviar is not written in stone. If you know some of your guests are not a fan of caviar, simply serve it on the side.

Fried deviled eggs are the new trend and a sure way to surprise your guests. The addition of caviar brings new meaning to the word “wow.” Enjoy!

Fried Deviled Eggs with Caviar

Ingredients

14 large eggs, divided 1/3 cup mayonnaise, plus 1 tablespoon

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

2 teaspoons cold water

2 cups all-purpose flour, divided 1 cup cornmeal

2 cups plain panko breadcrumbs canola oil for frying kosher salt to taste black caviar

1. Bring a pot of water to a gentle boil. Lower 12 eggs, when water returns to a gentle boil, set the timer for 13 minutes. Place pot in sink and run cold water on eggs for 2 minutes. Remove shells and slice lengthwise.

2. In a medium bowl, combine egg yolks, mayo, vinegar, Dijon, and salt. Blend until very smooth.

3. Dredging station: place ½ cup all-purpose flour on a plate. Mix remaining 2 eggs with water. Combine remaining flour, cornmeal, and panko in a pie plate.

Dip each half of cooked egg white, one at a time, in flour, then egg wash, and panko mixture.

4. In a large cast iron skillet, heat 2-inches of canola oil over mediumhigh heat.

Fry egg whites until golden brown. Place on cooling rack.

5. Pipe egg yolk filling and garnish with caviar according to personal preference.

Secret Ingredient – Choices

Life is a matter of choices, and every choice you make makes you.

- John C. Maxwell

(The writer is the author of “An Eastern Shore Special: Recipes from the Heart,” which is available online for purchase.)

Taustin Fellowship announced by Art League

(May 23, 2025) The Art League of Ocean City announces a new annual fellowship in honor of the late Cheryl Miller Taustin, a prominent figure in Ocean City and Berlin who passed suddenly in 2024.

The Cheryl M. Taustin Fellowship for Creative Leadership will recognize artists, educators, and mentors of any arts medium who demonstrate a synchronicity with Taustin’s commitment to causes of social justice, uplifting the unheard voice, and valuing community and thought-provoking artistry. Exemplified through daring leadership, innovative viewpoints, and generative progress, fellows will carry forward Taustin’s legacy of cultivating a more beautiful and more empathetic community through the arts.

“Cheryl knew that we are not the sum of our productivity or our job but the strength of our integrity, creativity, and our voice, and she graced so many with hers,” Rina Thaler, executive director of the Art League and personal friend of Taustin, said. “She advocated for the arts, the environment, equal rights, animal protection, and love for everyone. She made her opinions known and served as an inspiration and fierce advocate for causes that celebrate living. Cheryl advocated for graciously and peace-

fully living life and was an active player in life who made resounding entrances and profound exits.”

In her early life, Taustin toured as a cabaret singer, singing the standards, Broadway classics, and popular hits of the era at nightclubs and restaurants. It was on her stop at the Embers Restaurant in Ocean City where she met her husband, Jay Taustin, stayed and grew roots, and raised three children. She built community as a founding member of Temple Bat Yam, where she served as a cantorial soloist for more than 30 years.

“It is in the spirit of my mother’s leadership in the arts that we celebrate, uplift, and invigorate creatives making bold impact in the community,” said her son, Kyler Taustin DePasquale. “There is no better way to honor my mother than to enliven the world with more art.”

Daughter Khari Taustin added, “My mom demonstrated, to me as well as her students of all ages and all classrooms, that a combination of purpose and passion are key ingredients to a life fully lived. It is my hope that this sentiment is pivotal to her legacy and that this award and its recipients can play a part in continuing to share in that message.”

A committee of local artists and leaders including descendants of

Taustin’s will select the fellow who will receive a one-year appointment and a $1,500 stipend. The fellow will also create a piece of artwork to be presented to their successor. Any artist working in any medium will be considered eligible as long as that work directly impacts the Delmarva region and demonstrates a commitment to the values and priorities Taustin championed: art, arts education, leadership and community mindedness, environmental consciousness, and social justice. Applicants may apply at OCart.org with a rolling deadline.

CROSSWORD

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Cheryl Miller Taustin

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Telling the truth has always come naturally to you, Aries. But tact isn’t always your specialty and sometimes your candor is now well-received. Keep that in mind this week.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

It is time to make peace with someone even if it is the last thing you want to do this week, Taurus. There is no better option thank to talk it out, so schedule that chat as soon as possible.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Sometimes there is nothing you like more than being silly with other kindred spirits who get you, Gemini. But you’re in a different mood this week and it might feel unfamiliar to you.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

It is fair to say this week that you desire some time alone and maybe need it as well, Cancer. Take some time for yourself and let others know you’re going off the grid.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, although your first inclination might be to get into a war of words with someone with whom you disagree, this week you might want to try a different approach. Remain open to others’ views.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

You might be tired of recent drama in your life, Virgo. But if you dig deeper, you might find that you have contributed to the noise. Make some meaningful changes this week.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Your negotiation skills are wellknown, Libra, and you’re usually the first person anyone thinks of when they need a third party to help them smooth over a situation. Enjoy the attention.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, even if someone is pushing your buttons this week, you won’t let that get in the way of doing something for this person because they are dear to you.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

You are no stranger to good luck, Sagittarius. This week that luck will be shared with people who cross your path. They will appreciate the fortune.

CAPRICORN – DEC 22/JAN 20

Expect to experience a strong feeling of wanderlust this week, Capricorn. You may find it challenging to pass up a trip or a new experience of any kind.

AQUARIUS – JAN 21/FEB 18

Aquarius, right now the old adage that if you ignore it, it will go away might not hold true. Failing to face something right now may not be the best approach.

PISCES – FEB 19/MAR 20

You are ready to share secrets with a soulmate, Pisces. The challenge lies in trying to find the time when you are alone to have this important conversation.

STUDENTS EXCEL

Stephen Decatur High School students recently excelled in the spring session of the Maryland Stock Market Game. Junior Sophia Ferrante, pictured with her parents Jill and Todd and teacher Kurt Marx, was named the state winner of the prestigious SIFMA Foundation InvestWrite Essay Competition. The InvestWrite competition challenges students to discuss the investment process and reflect upon their participation in the Stock Market Game. Additionally a state title was won by the team of Finn Reed, Kaden Ortt, and Caden Spicer-Geise. The team defeated 1,925 teams to take the top spot in profit gains, turning a virtual $100,000 into $171,655 and beating the number two team by $25,000. Along the journey to their impressive win, the students had to research, analyze, and apply investment trends, assess risks, and collaborate for decision making. Reed and Ortt are pictured.

Commemorative wall unveiled

(May 23, 2025) United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore (UWLES) recently celebrated the unveiling of its new 1944 Legacy Circle commemorative wall during a special event held recently at the organization's office in Salisbury.

Members of the 1944 Legacy Circle and community supporters enjoyed an evening of cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and appreciation. The new installation was a vision led by longtime UWLES volunteer, former board member, and Legacy Circle member Cathie Thomas. The design was by Olivia Momme and Plak That produced the display.

“This wall is not just a tribute to those who have included United Way in their planned giving. It’s a testament to the community our Legacy Circle members have invested in,” said Pam Gregory, President/CEO of UWLES. “Their support ensures that future generations will continue to benefit from strong, vibrant programs and resources for years to come.”

The Legacy Wall honors the generosity and enduring commitment of donors who have shared they have included United Way in their planned giving or have already supported through their estate.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

1944 Legacy Circle members in attendance were, standing from left, Steve Fulkrod, Maggie Fulkrod, Pam Gregory, Jake Bernstein, Jim List, Mark Rudnick, Marilyn Neat, Wendy Seiler, Marty Neat, Dana Seiler and Cathie Thomas; and, seated, Judy Bernstein, Sonya Whited and Mary Mengason.

Fri., May 23

OC MAHJONG CLUB

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

ARTSY HOMESCHOOLERS

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 11 a.m. Every 4th Friday, join in for an art project that includes everything from painting, writing, crafting and more. Best for ages 6-11 years but all are welcome. 410632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

MILLION POUND MILESTONE: ONE BIG STEP FORWARD!

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 12:45-2 p.m. Go Green OC Campaign is celebrating one millionth pound of food waste composted. Come learn about the group’s mission and pick some compost. https://www.gogreenwithoc.org, 443235-1890

SURVIVAL SPANISH: PRESENT TENSE PART 1

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Learn how to say some basic phrases in Spanish. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

KIGHTS OF COLUMBUS BINGO

Fridays - Knights of Columbus, 9901 Coastal Highway, behind St. Luke’s Church. Doors open at 5 p.m., bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. Light snacks available before bingo and at intermission. 410-524-7994

Sat., May 24

OCEAN PINES’ GOT TALENT! AUDITIONS

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Come prepared with your music selection (if needed). Auditionees will be given three minutes to perform their talent. Open to the public. 410-641-7052

HUGE INDOOR YARD SALE

New Hope United Methodist Church, 7348 New Hope Road, Willards, 7 a.m.3 p.m. One day only.

ANNUAL ARTISANS FAIR

Lord Baltimore Elementary School, 120 Atlantic Ave., Ocean View, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Exhibits both indoors and outdoors, showing a variety of fine arts. A Farmers Market will offer produce and specialty foods from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Raffles, bake sale and food trucks. 302-732-6336

KICKSTART KINDERGARTEN Worcester County Library - Pocomoke

Branch, 401 Fifth St., 10:30 a.m. Sixsession series built to help preschoolers get ready for Kindergarten. Families receive a light snack and tips for continuing kindergarten preparedness at home. For ages 3-5 years. 410-957-0878

LIBRARY LEGO LEAGUE

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 1 p.m. Explore your imagination with LEGO bricks provided by the library. Creations will be displayed in the Berlin Library. For ages 6-11 years. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

VETERAN’S CELEBRATION PERFORMANCE AT AMERICAN LEGION IN OCEAN CITY

American Legion Synepuxent Post 166, 2308 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 2-5 p.m. The Community Players of Salisbury will present World War II: Heroes of the Eastern Shore. Featuring dramatic readings, narration, slides, and a World War II band. oceancityhappyme@aol.com

OCEAN PINES FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods. Also featuring family-friendly activities, music and unique shopping experiences. Open to the public, year round. 410-641-7052, https://www.oceanpines.org/web/pages /farmers-artisans-market

Sun., May 25

MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY

Ocean City Boardwalk Arch, 1 N. Division St., 1-2:15 p.m. Choir performance, flyover, U.S. Army Military 15-piece band, National Guard vehicle static display and keynote address from Maj. Gen. Janeen L. Birckhead. Wreaths remain on display through Monday.

HEROES DAY AT COASTAL WILDS

Coastal Wilds, 34215 Peppers Corner Road, Frankford, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Explore “Heroic Vehicles” and tour Coastal Wilds. Cost is $25. Free to military, veterans and first responders. Tickets: https://book.singenuity.com/469/activity/details/2289/rates. 302-829-1549

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

Continued from Page 79

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

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

Mon., May 26

MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY

Veterans Memorial Park, Race Track Road, Ocean Pines, 11 a.m.-noon. Featuring patriotic music, demonstrations and public speakers honoring U.S. Military men and women who gave their lives in service. Limited seating available. www.wocovets.org

OLD FASHIONED MEMORIAL DAY PARADE

Willam Edward Henry Park, 125 Flower St., Berlin, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Parade will stage at Stephen Decatur Middle School and run from Flower to Bay streets. Food vendors, music, craft vendors, activities for children and dance performances at Henry Park. 443-497-3242

CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

John H. “Jack” Burbage, Jr. Regional Cancer Care Center, 9707 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3-4 p.m. For those newly diagnosed, in treatment or in remission. Face challenges, celebrate victories and build strength from the group’s shared journeys. Friends and family welcome. 410-641-2626

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

Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 56:30 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. Mary, 410-629-9383 or Carol, 302-242-7062.

OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS

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

Tues., May 27

SENSORY STORY TIME

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and finger plays. For ages 0-5 years. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

PLAY TIME

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 10:30 a.m. Come

out and play with a variety of toys and socialize with other families. For ages 05 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. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

HOMESCHOOL HISTORY

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 12 p.m. Learn facts about different historical time periods through reading, writing and games. For ages 6-11 years. 410524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BEACH HEROES-OC

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

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY

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

OC KNITTING CLUB

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

ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE

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

ZUMBA TONING TUESDAYS

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

WEIGHT MANAGEMENT AND WELLNESS GROUP

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

Wed., May 28

BABY TIME

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

BARIATRIC SUPPORT GROUP

Meets the third and fourth Wednesday of each month. For surgical patients. Atlantic General Bariatric Center, 410-641-9568

COFFEE & CRAFTS: CD SUNCATCHERS

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Join in each month for a new crafts. All materials provided. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

CHAIR YOGA

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Certified yoga instructor, Nicole Long, teaches this class that stretches and strengthens in a gentle manner. 410641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP

Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3-4 p.m. The goal of the group is to provide participants with hope for the future. Gail Mansell, 410-641-9725, gmansell@atlanticgeneral.org

KICKSTART KINDERGARTEN

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4:30 p.m. Sixsession series built to help preschoolers get ready for Kindergarten. Families receive a light snack and tips for continuing kindergarten preparedness at home. For ages 3-5 years. 410-641-0650

PAINT & SIP

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 6-8 p.m. Cost is $27 and includes wine and crackers. Must be at least 18 years of age to participate. Register: 410-641-7052.

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.

Thurs., May 29

OCEAN CITY JEEP WEEK

Ocean City Inlet Beach, 6:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Jeep parade daily, Jeep obstacle course on the beach, beach parking and automotive vendors at the Inlet Parking Lot. Free admission for spectators. Event schedule: https://ocmdjeepweek.com. 443-614-0141

STORY TIME

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. It’s a special story with Sherman the Shorebird. There will be songs, dancing and crafts. For ages 2-5 years. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

PLAY TIME

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

www.worcesterlibrary.org

FIRESIDE CHAT

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 3 p.m. Book discussion featuring books you have read and want to share. Come find your next great read. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

3RD ANNUAL BATTLE FOR THE BUCKLE TOURNAMENT

Sunset Marina, 12933 Sunset Ave., Ocean City, 4-8 p.m. Ocean City’s first and only exclusive Saltwater Cowboy fishing tournament. Weigh-ins held from 4-8 p.m. Benefiting Believe in Tomorrow Children’s Foundation. https://battleforthebuckle.com

OCTOPUS’ GARDEN PAINT NIGHT

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5 p.m. Enjoy Beatles trivia and music while painting a glowing “Octopus Garden.” Adult and teens only. Registration required: 410-632-3495. www.worcesterlibrary.org

ONGOING EVENTS

MAY INSPIRATION CHALLENGE

Snow Hill library, 307 N. Washington St., during May. Art, photography or poetry challenge for all ages. Pieces will be displayed in the library for viewing. The theme for May is “Music.” Due by May 28. 410-632-3495

BEATLES MAYNIA

Snow Hill library, 307 N. Washington St., during May. Trivia, crafts and display celebrating The Beatles all month long. 410-632-3495

COLOR YOUR WORLD SCAVENGER HUNT

Ocean Pines library, 11107 Cathell Road, during May. Gather all of the escaped crayons during this scavenger hunt and learn about the summer reading program. For families. 410-208-4014

LOUIS PARSONS III MEMORIAL PHOTO

CONTEST OPEN FOR SUBMISSIONS

OC Life-Saving Station Museum, 813 S. Atlantic Ave., April 1-Sept. 1. Entry fee is $5 per entry. Category winners will be announced on Nov. 1.

https://www.gogophotocontest.com/oce ancitymuseumsociety, 410-289-4991, emma@ocmuseum.org

Crossword answers from page 76

MARKETPLACE

THE SPINNAKER

Now Hiring FT, DAYTIME HOUSEKEEPER

Apply in person 1800 Baltimore Ave., OC 10AM-3PM

FT, YR

For condo located on 47th St., Bayside, OC, MD. Must work weekends during summer months, off Tues. & Wed. Duties include painting, power washing, light clean up, light maintenance. Pay $18-$22/hr. Benefits include 100% paid health & life insurance. Call 443-523-5739

NOW HIRING! PT HYGIENE Mon.-Thurs., 9am-3pm for busy dental office in Ocean City, MD. Please call 410-213-1032.

SPEEDWORLD

Small Engine Mechanic. Year-round.

Wage starts at $15/hr & up based on experience. Benefits available. 443-754-1047

POOL ATTENDANTS SECURITY Seasonal Positions Apply in person or call Pyramid Condo 9500 Coastal Hwy., OC 410-524-4479

Looking for FULL TIME SERVICE TECH

Must have a valid Driver's License. Wages based on experience. 410-726-1717

Ocean Aviation Flight Academy seeks

Admissions Counselor / Student Advisor

Location: Ocean City, MD (primary) & Georgetown, DE (as needed)

Email Resumes To: mike@flyoceanaviation.com No Phone Calls Please. We will contact qualified applicants.

We are looking for a dedicated and enthusiastic Admissions Counselor/Student Advisor to join our team. This role is essential in supporting the recruitment, enrollment, and continued engagement of our students. You will serve as a primary point of contact from initial inquiry through graduation, providing personalized support and guidance throughout their journey.

Key Responsibilities:

• Recruit and enroll prospective students into our educational programs.

• Guide students through the admissions process and provide ongoing support post-enrollment.

• Build and maintain relationships with students via phone, email, virtual meetings, and in-person interactions.

• Maintain accurate records of student interactions using CRM software.

• Represent the institution at recruitment events, campus tours, and outreach initiatives.

• Work closely with the marketing team to support digital recruitment and engagement campaigns.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in education, admissions, or student advising.

• Exceptional customer service and interpersonal communication skills.

• Highly organized with a professional and approachable demeanor.

• Experience using CRM systems and familiarity with digital marketing tools.

• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team.

• Willingness and ability to travel between campuses in Ocean City, MD and Georgetown, DE as needed.

This is a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on students’ academic journeys while being part of a supportive and missiondriven team. If you are passionate about student success and thrive in a dynamic environment, we encourage you to apply.

CLEANERS WANTED Vacation rental cleaners needed for OC and The Pines. Exp. preferred, but not required. OC PURIFIERS. Call or text 443-397-1189 or email Karen@ocpurifiers.com

ADMIN ASSISTANT needed for WOC company with excellent organization, written, verbal, and marketing experience a plus. Full or part-time position considered. Send resume to: assistant@ harborhomesmd.com

RICK’S MARKET

Wages based on experience and position. Stocker, Cashier, Meat Cutter, Receiving Manager, Deli Crew, Deli Manager. Please call: 410-629-1570.

AMERICAN LEGION 2 Line Cooks, experience required. Part-time. Apply at Post, 2308 Philadelphia Avenue or call for information at 410-289-3166

RENTALS

W. Ocean City Room furnished, private bath. Shared kitchen/laundry. No smokers. No pets. $800/mo. $500 sec. 270-750-6571

Seeking YR & Seasonal Rentals!

Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555.

House for Rent

Year-Round Rental

3BR, 2BA House for Rent in downtown Berlin, MD. House is newly renovated with all new appliances, bathroom fixtures, HVAC, full-sized W/D and quartz countertops. Rent is $2800/month plus utilities. Contact Jessica @ 410-641-3333 for more information.

YEAR-ROUND RENTAL 3BR, 2BA 1,418 sq. ft. parking included. Central HVAC. $2,150/mo. + utils. 438 Ocean Parkway, OP 410-456-0272

SUMMER BAYSIDE CONDO near Jolly Rogers. 2BR, 2BA, W/D, A/C, Wi-Fi, fully furnished. Sleeps 4-6. 2 units available. May-Sept. Call Mike at 410-603-6120. www.mbjcproperties.com

AVAILABLE

SUMMER RENTAL

4 months, Starting 5/22 Large Condo South Ocean City Interested, please call 410-294-1028 Thanks!

WATERFRONT BAYSIDE Newly remodeled 2BR, 2BA Condo in North OC. Full kitchen, LR, DR, W/D, balcony for sunsets. Perfect for crabbing, fishing, kayaking. 10 min. walk to beach. Weekly summer rentals & long term seasonal Nov.-May. Contact Julie, 443-223-4623

Join the Macky’s crew! Macky’s Bayside Bar & Grill is hiring SUMMER SECURITY Apply online now at mackys.com.

FOR SALE BY OWNER

Sunset Island TH Move-in ready. Many upgrades. Original owner. $961,000 Karen 240-780-6554 Bart 703-915-1530

COMMERCIAL

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

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

Commercial Space for Lease. 2-3 Units available, can be divided or joined. Approx. 800-1000 sq. ft. ea. Busy major road in Town of Berlin. Call 443-880-8885

SERVICES

LARRY’S HANDYMAN SERVICE

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

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

Sat., 5/24, 8am Front entrance

Assateague Point, Rt. 611 Clothing, Decor, etc…

Ocean City Mini Storage. The contents of mini storage units will be sold online at Lockerfox.com.

Serving the Newspapers of Maryland, Delaware and the District of Columbia since 1908.

MARYLAND STATEWIDE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING NETWORK

FOR SALE

Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-855-993-0969 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

HELP WANTED ATTENTION! HELP WANTED NOW HIRING. Full & Part Time. All Shifts. We have well over 100 New Job Listing Websites. There's something for EVERYONE. Shorturl.at/Yl0TS

MISC. FOR SALE

Get Boost Infinite! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 855-977-5719

Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HDDVR Upgrade, 80,000 On-Demand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-855407-6870

REAL ESTATE

We Buy Houses for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-866-541-7929

SERVICES

DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-855-337-5228

www.dental50plus.com/ MDDC #6258

VEHICLES WANTED

DONATE YOUR CAR/TRUCK/ RV - Lutheran Mission Society of MD Compassion Place ministries help local families with food, clothing, counseling. Tax deductible. MVA licensed #W1044. 410-228-8437 www.CompassionPlace.org

Units to be auctioned; B28B57-O92-O151-O164-S20S173-S213-S311-S755. Units are being sold due to non-payment of rent. Common items in units are, household items, furniture, tools, fishing equipment, paintings, antique and vintage items.

Date: Friday, May 30th, 2025 Time: 10:00 am This will be an online auction. Please go to Lockerfox.com and register. Feel free to call 410-2132029 for any questions regarding the online auction.

Worcester toughens homeless law

ism and trespassing. He called the law “a last resort” to target unhoused individuals who repeatedly create problems for the public.

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(May 23, 2025) Sleeping on public property is now a criminal offense in Worcester County after officials this week amended an existing ordinance to combat chronic homelessness.

Passed unanimously Tuesday by the County Commissioners, the bill makes it a misdemeanor to inhabit, camp on, or sleep on any roadside of any county road, right-of-way, park, landing or boat ramp, or any other county-owned property. Violations are punishable by up to 30 days in jail, a fine up to $1,000, or both.

The bill updates a 1987 county law that previously set penalties as a civil infraction. It also now extends to college or university campuses, bus stops, or other transportation facilities. The bill also clarifies the process for removing personal property stored or abandoned on county property, according to county attorney Roscoe Leslie.

Commissioner Eric Fiori said he’s been dealing with a deluge of complaints about this from constituents in West Ocean City, including vandal-

“I don't think anyone wants to go out from the sheriff's department and just arrest people that are homeless –that's not the idea,” said Fiori (District 3, Sinepuxent). “This is the lastditch effort. If they refuse to be a productive part of society and continue to cause problems due to substance abuse or mental health issues, that this is a way to help.”

Officials said the law was inspired

‘I

think anyone wants to go out from the sheriff's department and just arrest people that are homeless – that's not the idea.’

Commissioner Eric Fiori

by a 2024 Supreme Court ruling, City of Grants Pass v. Johnson, that ruled that a municipality imposing criminal penalties for acts like sleeping in public is not unconstitutional.

It’s been the result of months of collaboration between elected officials, police agencies, and social services representatives, many of whom say the law is a different kind of re-

source to be used in the name of public safety.

“Our residents and our visitors deserve the enjoyment of our public areas and our recreational spaces,” said Worcester County Sheriff Matt Crisafulli, speaking at the bill hearing Tuesday in Snow Hill.

“We already have prevention efforts and resources in place with our homeless population,” he added. “When those types of issues fail, and we have people that are just not taking the resources and people are having blatant disregard, then this just gives us a tool.”

Last year, between 19 and 31 people were identified in a semi-annual survey as living in Worcester County without shelter, according to the county’s department of social services.

The biggest challenge in trying to help the homeless population is figuring out where to put them, county health department officials have said, noting that this segment of the homeless population often cycles through pubic spaces, police custody, hospitalization, and jail time.

Not everyone who spoke Tuesday offered unwavering support. Eddie Lee, a Snow Hill town councilman, said he doesn’t agree with the bill’s misdemeanor penalties.

REAL ESTATE MARKETPLACE

Watermen reject negotiated relief package

Developer of offshore wind farm reaches agreement with Maryland DNR, DNREC

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(May 23, 2025) Watermen in Worcester County say they don’t want a penny out of a proposed $20 million relief package from an offshore wind farm developer.

“The (Department of Natural Resources) asked us for input, and we’re not negotiating our livelihood. That’s our life. We’re not going to make an agreement to put ourselves out of business,” said Jeanene Gwin, vice president of the Waterman’s Association of Worcester County.

Watermen are rejecting the agreement inked last week between offshore wind developer US Wind and environmental officials in Maryland and Delaware, one that aims to compensate the fishing community for negative effects of a proposed wind

farm to be located about 11 miles off Ocean City’s shoreline.

The memorandum of understanding (MOU) between US Wind, Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources, as well as Delaware’s Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, was finalized March 13. Maryland officials said it took a year to piece together the agreement.

According to the agreement, which is a public document, US Wind promises to create a $20 million relief fund for fishermen whose businesses would be harmed not only by the 114turbine wind farm, but also the accompanying operations and maintenance facility to be built in the West Ocean City commercial fishing harbor.

Millions would be set aside incrementally for each years-long phase of the project – construction, operations, and eventual decommissioning. The dollar amount goes “above and beyond what is required by” federal agencies, US Wind said in a May

14 statement.

“This proposal – one of the biggest investments in commercial fishing in the region – demonstrates our commitment to the fishing industry and the local community in which we’ll operate,” said US Wind CEO Jeffrey Grybowski.

Future fund functions

The $20 million includes $13.5 million in “direct support” to commercial and charter fishermen, including funds for fishermen to keep offloading and icing their catch in West Ocean City, according to US Wind’s statement. It also includes money earmarked for marketing local seafood and enough cash for 30 years of harbor maintenance like dredging and dock stabilization.

For commercial and head boat captains operating in fishing grounds where the turbines are located, the fund would also provide $1.1 million for upgrades to navigational equipment and safety training.

Another $5.4 million will be avail-

able for claims against revenue losses, though fishermen would have to prove they fish in the federally leased wind farm region, and that their business sustained lost revenue as a result of the turbines being there, according to terms of the agreement.

However, Gwin says the baseline for what constitutes a loss hasn’t even been arrived at yet because an independent administrator overseeing wind farm projects from Maine to North Carolina hasn’t been appointed.

“That oversight committee is the one that’s supposed to come up with the criteria (for relief),” she said Monday. “They’re supposed to meet, come back to us, ask us our opinion. This is supposed to be a three-year process. There hasn’t been a criteria established for relief. It’s just another bait and switch.”

Fish house futures

Adding to the ongoing drama surrounding the project, US Wind in their statement also provided new in-

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Ocean City shares opposition

formation:

After securing an option to purchase two fish houses on prime locations in the West Ocean City commercial harbor for its future operation and maintenance facility, the company now says it’ll only buy one parcel.

“By only developing one site instead of two and investing in grants for fishing service providers, the agreement will benefit and enhance commercial fishing services at the West Ocean City Harbor,” the statement said.

US Wind failed to specify, however, which facility – either Martin Fish Company or Southern Connection Seafood; both owners reportedly have multimillion-dollar options to sell from the company – would be spared. The company did not return a request for clarification at press time.

An operations facility would be US Wind’s homebase for turbine monitoring, maintenance planning and logistics, crew support, warehousing, and parking, as well as providing berthing areas for crew transfer vessels.

Such a facility would not house large component of wind turbines like blades or towers and would not berth deep-draft vessels in the West Ocean City harbor, the company’s statement also said.

If US Wind were to keep both fa-

cilities, then it would have to provide a total of $28.3 million for fishermen instead of $13.5 million, according to the MOU.

Ocean City opposition

The Town of Ocean City, meanwhile, is still engaged in a lawsuit against the U.S. Interior Department to block the wind farm from being developed.

Mayor Rick Meehan in a statement Monday said the MOU is US Wind’s attempt to “buy their way around due process” on the backs of ratepayers.

“Typical of US Wind’s approach to Ocean City’s concerns, instead of making meaningful changes to their project to protect our local fisherman, US Wind simply throws money at a problem and hopes it will go away,” Meehan said.

Meehan also accused the federal government of fast-tracking the project without addressing its negative and long-lasting effects.

The mayor made no mention of legislators from Maryland who also have backed the project, including Gov. Wes Moore.

“All of this to build a project that will be neither reliable, sustainable or economically feasible,” he said. “If, God forbid, this project is built, the next generation of Marylanders will be looking at a wind farm burial ground off of our coast. We cannot let this happen.”

Short-term rental ban petition drive yields referendum

Signature threshold met, special election set for July

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(May 23, 2025) Ocean City will hold a special election after it was announced this week a petition had acquired enough signatures to bring new short-term rental regulations to a referendum.

On May 9, the Ocean City Board of Supervisors of Elections conducted its verification process for the 1,327 names that had been collected on a petition to bring new short-term rental restrictions to a referendum.

And on Monday, Board Chair Mary Adeline Bradford announced the petition had garnered 1,090 valid signatures, which meets the requirements to bring the legislation before voters. The Ocean City Council this week agreed to hold a special election July 22 at the convention center.

“There were 2,476 voters in the November 2024 election, so 990 qualified signatures are required to have a successful petition for referendum,” Bradford said. “The petition contained 1,090 valid signatures. Therefore, the petition has met the required number of signatures.”

In March, the City Council voted 4-3 to set a five-night minimum stay for short-term rentals located in the R-1 residential and MH mobile home districts for the 2025 and 2026 rental seasons, and a 31-night minimum stay beginning in 2027. As the city code defines short-term rentals as 30 days or less, the ordinance approved would ban vacation rentals in those districts in two years.

From the outset, those in support of the proposed ban argued that

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Terri Miller, a Realtor who helped organize the petition effort, addressed the Ocean City Council Monday night.

Challenge cites property rights

short-term rentals were a business, and as such, are not allowed in singlefamily neighborhoods.

However, the petition group OCMD Property Rights, led by local real estate agent Terry Miller, said the ordinance violates property rights and does little to solve existing problems with short-term rentals.

To that end, on March 10, the city solicitor accepted the group’s petition, kicking off a 40-day countdown to collect enough signatures to bring the ordinance to a referendum. According to the city charter, the petition must contain the signatures of no less than 40% of the number of voters at the most recent general election.

With signatures now validated, the Ocean City Council on Monday voted unanimously to accept the petition results and to hold a special election, set for July 22. Officials said absentee ballots will be available and that the ballot question would be drafted and advertised in the coming weeks.

“Regarding the election, the council has the option of calling a special election or waiting until the next regularly scheduled election,” City Manager Terry McGean said. “That would not be until November of 2026.

During public comments, Miller recognized her group for the work they had done in gathering enough signatures to bring the short-term

rental regulations to referendum. She said the process was challenging and the topic was contentious.

“It’s really amazing that our group was able to pull this together, but it shows, I think, that most of the residents don’t agree with this …,” she said. “Should something happened to make the town better for everybody? Yes, but this is not it.”

Miller also asked that the council reconsider the date for its special election.

“The time frame is, of course, not the best,” she said, “to have this happen during the summer when everybody in town is working and there’s a lot of traffic.”

For his part, Mayor Rick Meehan also recognized the petitioners for their efforts. He also acknowledged the contention the topic has created amongst community members in recent weeks.

“The petitioners, congratulations, you worked hard and you were able to get the needed number of signatures to now take it to the next step in the democratic process, which is what you wanted all along, was to follow the democratic process, and that’s to take it to referendum so that now everybody has a chance to weigh in,” he said. “And I also hope that throughout the process, as it continues, everybody treats everybody else respectfully.”

Maryland lawmakers pass new legislation for Realtors

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer

(May 23, 2025) In 2025, the 447th Maryland General Assembly session convened on Jan. 8 and adjourned on April 7. Maryland REALTORS® issues a recap of all of the pertinent legislation affecting the real estate industry. Below is the summary of the real estate brokerage, licensing and contract related legislation that passed, as well as those that did not pass.

R® HB 124/SB 160 Assignment of Contracts of Sale – Disclosure and

Rescission PASSED – Effective October 1, 2025

A “wholesaler” must provide a disclosure to both the property seller and prospective buyer if a contract will be assigned. If the disclosure is not provided, the contract to purchase may be terminated without penalty prior to settlement.

R® HB 972/SB 680 Real Estate Commission - Continuing Education Requirements PASSED – Effective October 1, 2025

Continuing Education requirements for licensees are adjusted as follows: Fair Housing hours are increased from 1.5 to 2.0; separate BRAD and BRADSD classes are combined; commercial practitioners are required to complete 2.0 hours of ADA compliance; broker supervision is reduced to 1.5 hours; and, the CE course approval process is standardized across all classes.

HB 482 Occupational LicensingCriminal History Predetermination Review Process PASSED – Effective July 1, 2025

Individuals may request an upfront review of their criminal history to determine whether they would be disqualified from obtaining an occupational license or certificate.

HB 895/SB 279 Employment and Insurance Equality for Service Members Act PASSED – Effective October 1, 2025

This bill extends state licensing and fee provisions currently offered to active-duty military and veterans to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and Public Health Service.

HB 606/SB 441 New Home SalesEntry of Final Sale Price in Multiple Listing Service DID NOT PASS

A developer, builder, broker, or real estate agent would be required to enter the final sale price of a new home into a multiple listing service.

SB 815 Occupational Licensing and Certification - Criminal History Disclosure DID NOT PASS

REALTORS® successfully amended this bill to remove real estate from the category of licenses where criminal history review would be limited and licenses could not be denied from issuance.

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

A rendering of the new Buckingham Elementary School is pictured. The plan presented this week calls for buses entering on Main Street and vehicles accessing the school from West Street.

New Buckingham school design OK to move forward

Board of Education reviews site plan for $71 million elementary school project

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(May 23, 2025) The Buckingham Elementary School replacement project continues to move forward, as this week, the Worcester County Board of Education approved the schematic design for the new facility. Upon the board's unanimous yes vote, the plans will be presented to the County Commissioners next month.

Brad Hastings and Allison Shockley of Becker Morgan Group, the Salisbury-based engineering and architectural firm, presented the design plans to the Board of Education on Tuesday, May 20. The governing body unanimously approved the blueprints.

The next step in moving the BES project forward is a design presentation to the Worcester County Commissioners on June 17. The hope is that following the commissioner’s review of the outline, the schematic design will be forwarded to the state for their evaluation of the documents. If all remains on track, the new facility is expected to break ground in May 2027 and be completed just in time for fall 2029.

The design presentation included site and floor plans, the building massing and a budget review.

Hastings noted that the new building is expected to have a vehicular entrance off West Street and a bus

Safety prioritized for new BES

Continued from Page 91

entrance from Main Street, keeping the two types of traffic away from one another, a requirement in school creation. He added that the new BES’s parking is planned for where the current building now sits.

Coming off West Street, the property has open green space that will be used as playing fields. Both sides of that entryway will maintain pedestrian paths, and a playground area is planned for the facility with easy access from the school.

The design presentation also included floor plans. According to Shockley, the improved Buckingham will be a two-story school. The first floor is estimated at 69,387 square feet, and the second floor will likely be 21,364 square feet, for a total of 90,751 square feet between the two stories.

PreK3, preK4, kindergarten, and first grade are planned for the first floor, while second, third, and fourth grades will be located on the second floor.

Shockley said the administrative and health suites will be placed adjacent to the main entrance to guarantee good visibility of all those coming into the facility. Kindergarten will be located close to the preK3 and preK4 classes, which will sit near the main entrance, and a courtyard. Addition-

ally, the plan includes areas for special education offices, a guidance suite, and an ELL (English Language Learner) suite.

The second floor will include individual teacher resource rooms, shared spaces, and second, third, and fourth-grade classrooms.

The property will include a Judy Center for Early Childhood Learning, STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) spaces, a media center, a gym, music classrooms, and a community health clinic.

Shockley added that the primary and bus entrances have secure vestibules to ensure the safety of students, faculty, and staff during school hours.

“The main entry leads to the reception area, so you would have that secure checkpoint before entering the school,” Shockley said.

Furthermore, the main entryway will include a covering under which students, school personnel, and visitors will enter.

The Becker Morgan representatives added that during the schematic design phase, the team considered the school in the context of Berlin’s historic charm. Hastings said they are weighing the use of brick and natural wood elements, but these will be studied further. To guarantee durable school construc-

State still must approve plans

tion, the engineers will prioritize long-term materials requiring minimal maintenance.

All project advocates aim to avoid constant upkeep of a brand-new structure by using supplies and building elements that have a long lifespan.

“As I said in the feasibility discussion, please make sure that all the materials are maintenance-free to the extent possible so we don't have to replace them in five years,” Board of Education member Jon Andes said. “We need to be able to replace them in 50 years because that's probably the length of time Buckingham will be in place until someone in the future has a feasibility study done again to replace Buckingham Elementary School.”

The Becker Morgan team outlined the estimated cost of the project.

Construction of the new 90,837square-foot facility will cost around $52 million. Demolition of the current school will cost $550,000, and site development will cost around $8 million, with a $3$ construction contingency, for a total of around $62 million.

The budget also factors in additional project costs, such as relocating the portable classrooms, equipment, furniture, technology, playground costs, and fees for archi-

tectural engineering services and construction management. Thus, the total cost of creating a new BES comes to a little over $71 million.

That price tag is aligned with a memorandum of understanding between the local government, the board of education, and the state. Per the agreement, Maryland will provide around $25 million to replace BES, while approximately $46 million will come from Worcester County funding.

After the Board of education unanimously approved the schematic design, the next step in the replacement project is to present the same outline to the Worcester County Commissioners in June and, hopefully, after that, send it to the state for review.

In addition to passing the BES plans, the board green-lit the contracting of Becker Morgan Group to handle the Berlin Intermediate School feasibility study.

The old BIS will also be renovated or rebuilt in conjunction with the BES project. The feasibility study will determine whether improvements can be made to the current Berlin facility or if an entirely new structure will need to be constructed. Per the board’s approval, Becker Morgan will handle the preliminary evaluation.

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Opinions

Memorial Day: first, a show of respect

There’s Memorial Day and then there is Memorial Day.

One marks the unofficial beginning of summer, mostly because the Uniform Holiday Act of 1968 led to the creation of the federally declared three-day holiday weekend in 1971.

The other Memorial Day, which since 1868 had been celebrated on May 30 before the act shifted it to the last Monday in May, is when we’re supposed to commemorate the sacrifice of members of the military who gave everything in service to their country.

Notable in the sentence above is the passage, “when we’re supposed to ...” because although it does introduce the reason for the observance, it also implies that this solemn purpose is often forgotten amidst all the pre-summer celebrations.

That’s a shame, because this willingness of millions of men and women to serve in the armed forces, and put it all on the line if need be, is what allows us to enjoy the holiday however we choose.

This commitment by so many men and women to defend our way of life is the ultimate deterrent against those who would wish us harm, as its unspoken message is that some of us will go and not return, but none of us will go quietly no matter what.

That is the essence of the real Memorial Day, which will be celebrated Monday with remembrances, honors and respect in Berlin with its Old-Fashioned Memorial Day Parade, in Ocean Pines at the Worcester County Veterans Memorial, and in Ocean City at the American Legion Synepuxent Post 166.

These salutes to the casualties of war and conflict have little to do with Memorial Day, the season opener, beside occupying the same square on the calendar. That is, of course, unless we give it a few minutes of respectful appreciation as we fire up the grills, ice down the drinks and cheer the arrival of summer.

PUBLIC EYE

AI in medicine? Scary

Artificial intelligence, as opposed to certified organic intelligence, has made its way into medical school, and that scares the youknow-what out of me.

NEWS

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By Stewart Dobson

Why? Because artificial intelligence is only as good as the information it receives.

It is conceivable, for instance, that someone goofing around in a medical journal might write, “Eyeballs may be removed for periodic cleaning,” and then forgets to add, “Just kidding.”

Because the author did not say, “Just kidding. Do not remove your eyes for any reason,” AI concludes, “What the heck, removable eyeballs sound good to me.”

I’m serious. Just because AI is being billed as the greatest thing to come along since the legalization of marijuana gave us a legitimate reason to look confused in the middle of the day, that doesn’t mean it’s infallible.

That’s because there are things we know, things we have yet to know and things we think we know but don’t. Consider the “facts” civilization used to think it knew:

4th Century BC

Researcher question: “Describe the human anatomy.”

AI: “Oh, the foot bone connected to the heel bone, heel bone connected to the ankle bone, ankle bone connected to the ...”

Researcher question: “Describe the earth.”

AI: “It’s a big flat thing. In fact, recreational sailor Diomedes the Directionless

sailed right over the edge of it after telling his family members ‘He’d be right back.’”

12th Century AD

Researcher question: “What’s the latest in dental hygiene here in Europe?”

AI: “Sticks. A good stick is best and maybe a shorter one for travel.”

19th Century AD

Researcher question: “Is smoking good for you?”

AI: “Can’t hurt.”

20th Century AD

Researcher question: “Is drinking coffee good for you?”

AI: “Yes, it is.”

AI: “No, it isn’t.”

AI: “Yes, it is.”

AI: “No, it isn’t.”

21st Century AD:

AI: “Yes it is ... mostly.”

That’s my problem with AI. Things we thought were facts turn out not to be, so there’s a chance, however remote it might be, that we’ll wind up on the operating table with a surgeon who got outdated or erroneous AI information.

Surgeon question: “What are we dealing with today?”

AI: “Parts is parts.”

Again, I may be old-fashioned, but for my money, I say being taught medicine by AI is like going to art school and getting a degree in Paint by Numbers.

AI: “The first rule of surgery is to stay within the lines.”

Between the Lines

By Steve Green

It’s going to be fascinating to see how turnout will be for the summer referendum in Ocean City. With the July 22 date hitting at the resort’s peak season, the easy assumption is it will be poor. However, the hope here is it’s better than anticipated because the outcome will directly impact homeowners.

In the November 2024 election, there were 2,476 voters. It was a hotly contest mayoral election with long-term incumbent Rick Meehan challenged by a then-sitting council member, Peter Buas. The mayor showdown certainly drove up turnout, as the 2022 election saw 2,086 voters when Meehan was unopposed, but three ballot questions were posed. In 2020, 1,528 voters came out and in 2018, 2,566 votes were recorded.

It's going to be a different summer with an election looming in July. Political signs will most likely dot the landscape along Coastal Highway in June and July. Individual candidates for the fall election typically hold off on erecting signs until after Labor Day, particularly with the municipal election now held in November rather than October.

Agree or disagree with the position, congratulations to the petition group in Ocean City for exercising their rights to challenge the city’s short-term rental ordinance on a ballot vote. It was an impressive, grassroots effort, and the residents will ultimately have the final say. I just hope they remember to add voting to their to-do list on July 22. There should be enough signs and marketing to keep it fresh on everyone’s minds.

For months it was looking like the new Boardwalk Rock event was not going to enjoy the same success as the other festivals put on by C3 Presents, Oceans Calling and Country Calling. In the end, the two-day festival was essentially a carbon copy of the Country Calling weekend. Like Boardwalk Rock, Country Calling was a two-day festival last October. Country Calling will be a three-day festival when it returns Oct. 3-5. With the massive success in its first year, buoyed by perfect weather, it’s possible Boardwalk Rock will return next spring as a three-day event as well.

Two conclusions to offer after last weekend. One, it’s clear these festivals bring a major economic impact to the entire area, not just the festival footprint. Business reports were overwhelmingly positive last weekend from all over the area, and major traffic backups were seen at the Chesapeake Bay Bridge on Monday afternoon as a result of festival-goers heading west. The festivals are a massive draw and do introduce Ocean City to many visitors. Folks in the hospitality industry report the crowds here for the festival represent an excellent clientele who are here to have fun and spend money while taking in all Ocean City has to offer. Finally, a look at the police log of events shows little to no problems with the crowds. The most high-profile situation of the weekend involved a man on a motorized scooter speeding on Baltimore Avenue in a lane restricted for buses. The man ran directly into a turning vehicle and flipped over on to the road. The viral video shows the man getting up after the serious tumble but the vehicle was damaged.

***

It's humorous to me Maryland leaders are blaming the president, who has been in office since late January, for the state’s recent credit downgrade. In a joint statement, Maryland’s leadership – governor, lieutenant governor, treasurer, comptroller, house speaker and senate president –said, “To put it bluntly, this is a Trump downgrade.” The statement goes on to say, “Over the last two years, Maryland has seen strong economic momentum … Yet, this was not enough to overcome a downgrade caused by the recent actions of the Trump Administration.”

A fan of Trump’s or not, it’s irresponsible to suggest the last four months led to this downgrade. The fact is when the state’s leadership changed in 2022 there was a budget surplus. The last few months in Annapolis were spent reconciling a large deficit incurred under the current governor, resulting in local governments now having to take on a massive new burden of expenses previously managed by the state.

***

Ocean City moved forward with its ban on tents and restrictions on canopies this week. A significant change was made by officials Monday during first reading. The ordinance will ban tents and all structures with sides and prohibit unattended canopies before 10 a.m. This week, the council in a 5-2 vote, made some additions, setting the maximum canopy size at 10 feet by 10 feet and mandated a three-foot separation to ensure suitable passage and prevent quasi-villages being set up along the beach. These are solid changes, as it seems to me there have been shifts in recent years that alter the experience for the majority. Before the ordinance is approved on second reading, the city should, however, provide answers to ongoing enforcement questions, namely who will do it.

New city ordinance fails to address homelessness

Editor,

A recent (May 2) article in the paper indicated that the Town of Ocean City is considering making it unlawful to store your personal belongings in a public area.

Although it is visually unappealing to see someone’s belonging stored on a side street or on the boardwalk, making it unlawful doesn’t address the root problem: Homelessness.

As a community it should be our responsibility to help our most vulnerable members. If we cannot house the homeless, the least we should do is to help them keep their few belongings safe.

Is there any reason we cannot make a small storage facility available for their use? Let us help those who need help, not make their lives even more difficult.

Tom Herbst Ocean City

Round of applause for event handling Editor,

Working the Worcester municipal lot with Sam and his crew for the Boardwalk Rock concert Saturday, I was able to witness the Ocean City’s transportation managers at their best when faced with countless obstacles.

Tens of thousands of concert goers

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waiting to be transported up town or out of town were temporarily stranded while Coastal Highway was at a standstill due to terrible accidents. The buses just weren’t coming back. Irritability, complaints, admonishments ensued as we tried to explain the situation.

Thank the town for employing Mary, the ADA bus operator, for her patience with the disabled visitors, delivering them two at a time to the West O.C. Park and Ride. Mary was unable to go north however. Then, as the busses started to trickle back in, enter Eric Hall, a transportation manager. Fast walker and thinker, Eric took charge through the chaos and, through leadership and communication, was able to get the handicapped to their destinations, all while controlling the flow of transportation for the masses.

George, another transportation manager, was keeping the flow from his spot at the transit station while another guy (white goatee) managed the lines at Somerset Street. Cool, calm, compassionate, organized, and outnumbered 5,000 to one, these four kept it together.

On Sunday, I was able to see the entire operation on the beach. It was clear that the event was well managed and strategically controlled. Accolades to the planners and the city for pulling off such a grand affair.

Peter Litchfield Ocean City

We invite you to share it, but all letters are subject to verification, so please include your name and phone number. All letters are subject to editing for space and to protect the author and this newspaper from legal action. Email letters to editor@octodaydispatch.com. For questions, call 410-723-6397.

Schools update policies to mirror new bills

Board of Education adopts change requiring WCPS to provide telehealth space

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(May 23, 2025) The Worcester County Board of Education approved a series of policy revisions, including the addition of required emergency rescue medications, providing spaces for telehealth appointments and firmly defining eligibility for enrollment in Worcester County Public Schools.

According to WCPS Coordinator of School Health Services Lauren Williams, legislation passed last year now requires schools to provide access to bronchodilators in an asthmatic emergency.

The regulation addressing the school system’s first aid standards was updated to include the new medication measure.

The guideline adds new requirements for seizure, asthma, and other medical situations. Per the policy, principals will ensure that school nurses facilitate emergency medication and first aid training for all staff at the start of each school year.

This training will include “the assessment and the administration of the auto-injectable epinephrine pen, the assessment and administration of bronchodilators, and the assessment and first aid for seizures,” the policy reads.

The policy stipulates that emergency medications be available at school, as well as on field trips and off-site activities.

“The emergency rescue medication and state policy are updated to ensure all WCPS are equipped and prepared to respond promptly and effectively to medical emergencies in alignment with Maryland laws and best practices for student health and safety,” Williams said.

The board of education unanimously approved the policy revision.

The board also adopted a new health-related standard this week. The policy will require WCPS to provide secondary students with access to a private, internet accessible space during the school day to attend telehealth appointments. If the student is under 18, a parent must accompany their child during these consultations.

The new guideline adds that families are responsible for scheduling and attending appointments, providing their own internet-capable device, and reserving the space through the school’s outlined procedures.

The school system’s only role is to

ensure that students and their parents can access a private area with internet, seating, electric, and a flat surface to conduct their appointments. A principal or designee will also help families reserve the designated space.

In addition to health-related policy modifications, the board greenlit language alterations to the system’s policy that defines WCPS enrollment eligibility. According to Nicole Selby, the school system’s student, family, and community connections coordinator, the previous standard indicated that children could attend WCPS if their primary physical residence were in Worcester County.

The updated policy outlines specifically what a bona fide residence is in the county.

Per the revision, a bona fide residence in Worcester County is “the place in which an individual has a settled connection for legal purposes and where a person has a true, fixed,

Legion Post to host World War II presentation Sat.

(May 23, 2025) The Community Players of Salisbury will present World War II: Heroes of the Eastern Shore on May 24 at 2 p.m. at the American Legion Post 166 located at 2308 Philadelphia Avenue in Ocean City.

The live production uses dramatic readings, narration, slides, and music to honor the local men and women who served at home and overseas during World War II.

Board approves policy changes

Continued from Page 96

Bogdan recognizes over 50 men and women who served, including medics, airmen, those who fought at Iwo Jima and Normandy, and those who stayed home and were air wardens or served in the local militia. A band, known as the WW2's, will be playing live music, including songs from Glenn Miller.

Admission is free. Donations are accepted. Seating is limited, so reservations are encouraged. Call 443-235-3272 to reserve a seat for this show that honors our local heroes and is sponsored by Beach to Bay Heritage Area.

"They sacrificed and answered their country's call, and these heroes must not be forgotten," said Matt Bogdan, director of the show. "Some fought the war on their homeland while others were sent to places thousands of miles away and, in most cases, thrust into the horror and trauma of war."

permanent home without any present intention of leaving,” the new policy reads. “It is a child's physical place of residence, maintained in good faith, and does not include a temporary residence or superficial residence established for the convenience or the purpose of free school attendance or specific school district attendance.”

Selby adds that the burden for providing residency information is the responsibility of families.

“We are unique in that we border two counties and two states, so it's very difficult for my office of six to do complete residency investigations with 7,000 kids,” the coordinator said. “This is our first step in really defining what our resident policy is. There will be additions to this policy along with procedures. It also allows

my office to do investigations and have the families provide sufficient residency documentation.”

The policy also notes that “students who are under current suspension or expulsion by another school district by COMAR (Code of Maryland Regulations) may not be enrolled until the terms and conditions of the suspension or expulsion are satisfied.”

Jon Andes, Worcester County Board of Education member, asked Selby if the “may” in the stipulation prohibiting enrollment for those suspended or expelled could be changed to “shall” to eliminate any potential leeway.

The board of education passed the policy revision with the requirement that staff determine at a future date whether the language should be adjusted from “may” to “shall. "

Photo by Stephen Pryce Lea

Photo

Photo by Stephen Pryce Lea

Photo by Stephen Pryce Lea

Robert Ritter von Greim, the last field marshal

By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer

This week, 80 years ago, Germany’s last field marshal, and the chief of its Luftwaffe, Robert Ritter von Greim, committed suicide while in American custody in Salzburg, Austria.

The field marshal was not born into German nobility. Rather, he was the son of a police captain, born in Bayreuth, Bavaria. Today, Bayreuth has a population of 72,000.

He joined the Bavarian Army on July 14, 1911, and two years later was commissioned as a second lieutenant in a field artillery regiment. When the Great War began, his regiment was a part of Sixth Army, commanded by Crown Prinz Rupprecht of Bavaria.

In November 1914, he earned the Iron Cross 2nd Class. He began his flying career in 1915 as an artillery observer. In April 1917, he transferred to the 34th Fighter Squadron, earning the Iron Cross 1st Class on May

Mention This Ad, Get 25% OFF ANYTHING

25, 1917, becoming commander of the squadron on June 19, and an ace on Aug. 16, 1917. His total for the war was 28 victories, qualifying him for the Pour le Mérite, or the “Blue Max.”

After the cessation of hostilities, Greim returned to Bavaria. He was discharged from the army on March 31, 1920, with the rank of captain. He also rekindled his relationship with Rudolf Hess, whom he had met during the war. Hess would become deputy führer in the Nazi government — until, in 1940, he commandeered an airplane and flew to Great Britain, ostensibly to, without der Führer’s permission, make peace!

Greim married, on Sept. 2, 1920, Alice Wilhelmine Adelheid Braun, widow of Hanns Braun, who had served with Greim until he was killed on Oct. 9, 1918. Braun had been an Olympic medalist in the 1908 Summer Olympics.

Greim was awarded the Bavarian Military Order of Max Joseph on Nov. 23, 1920. On receiving this

award, he was allowed to add “von” to his name as well as the title of knight, or “Ritter,” so his name became Robert Ritter von Greim.

He was running the air postal station in Munich when, in 1920, he began flying a German army propaganda instructor, Adolph Hitler, to Berlin. It wasn’t long before he had fallen under Hitler’s spell and become an ardent Nazi, and participated in the failed 1923 Beer Hall Putsch, in Munich.

He and three other German pilots were recruited by the Chinese Nationalist Government to help build an air force. Traveling by ship, they arrived in Hong Kong on September 13, 1924. His wife and young son joined him around New Year’s, 1926.

The von Greims returned to Munich by way of the Trans-Siberian Railway in April 1927. Future Luftwaffe chief, Hermann Göring, asked von Greim to help rebuild the German air force in 1933, and was given command of the first fighter pilot school, becoming commander of the elite Richthofen Fighter Wing on May 1, 1934. It had been named for Baron Manfred von Richthofen - the “Red Baron.”

Continued on Page 99

Robert Ritter von Greim

WORLD WAR II

Continued from Page 98

He was promoted to major general on Feb. 1, 1938, and given command of the Luftwaffe research department. He was promoted to lieutenant general on Jan. 1, 1940, and to General of Aviators on July 19, commanding the V Air Corps during the Battle of Britain.

During the Battle of Kursk, von Greim was commander of the Luftflotte 6, beginning the battle with 750 aircraft. Within a year, only 50 were left.

His son, Hubert, was a fighter pilot with the Richthofen squadron and was captured in North Africa after his Messerschmitt Bf 109G was hit by anti-aircraft artillery and made a forced landing on Dec. 30, 1942, in Tunisia.

In 1939, Göring was designated as der Führer’s successor. This was formalized on June 29, 1941 in case of incapacity, disappearance or abduction. In April 1945, with the Red Army surrounding Berlin, Göring left Hitler and the doomed city for his estate in Obersalzberg.

On April 22, Hitler announced that he intended to stay in Berlin and was going to commit suicide. He also stated that Göring was in a better position to negotiate a peace settlement.

Since der Führer, by virtue of being trapped in Berlin, was incapacitated, Göring, the next day, sent Hitler a telegram asking if, pursuant to the

1941 decree, he was in charge, adding that if he did not receive a response by 10 p.m., he would assume that der Führer had lost his freedom of action, and that he was now in charge.

Unfortunately, the telegram did not arrive at the Führer’s bunker until after midnight. By that time, Göring had begun communicating with others as Hitler’s successor. At first Hitler was nonplused by this development. But then Hitler’s personal secretary, Martin Bormann, and propaganda minister, Dr. Joseph Goebbels, began working on him, and soon he was furious at Göring for attempting a coup d’etat!

On April 26, Hitler summoned Gen. von Greim to Berlin. The next day von Greim and Hanna Reitsch made a hair-raising flight into the doomed city, resulting in von Greim receiving a severe wound to his foot.

After their arrival, Hitler came into the room where a physician was dressing the general’s wound. There, he launched into a diatribe against Göring, ending by stripping Göring of all of his titles, issuing a warrant for his arrest, promoting von Greim to field marshal, and naming him as Göring’s successor as commander of the Luftwaffe.

On April 29, Hitler ordered Reitsch, a renowned test pilot, to fly the new Luftwaffe chief, and newest and last, field marshal, to Plön, a town of less than 10,000, in the north of Ger-

many, near Denmark, with the purpose of arresting Heinrich Himmler for treason.

Himmler had been attempting to negotiate with the Allies, and Hitler, incorrectly, thought he was in Plön. Germany’s newest field marshal and Reitsch made their way to Austria, where, on May 8, 1945, they were captured by the Americans. At the time of his capture the newest field marshal said, "I am the head of the Luftwaffe, but I have no Luftwaffe!"

Before they left Hitler, he gave them each a vial of poison. Later, Reitsch would say, “It was the blackest day when we could not die at our Führer's side." On May 24, the field marshal, fearing that the Americans were going to send him to the Soviet Union to face Stalin’s justice, bit down on the vial of potassium cyanide. Germany’s last field marshal was 52.

Hanna Reitsch died on August 24, 1979, at the age of 67. She had continued flying, and won many competitions all over the world.

Next week: Kamakazes 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.

OBITUARIES

ELIZABETH NICOLE KETTERMAN

Berlin

Elizabeth Nicole Ketterman “Lizzie”, 30, tragically passed away on May 4th, 2025, while vacationing in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. She was a bright light to all who knew her, leaving a lasting impact on her community.

24 Hour Awake Staff

All

Lizzie grew up in Willards, Maryland where she began her love of athletics playing soccer and softball in rec leagues and in high school. She was a lifetime member of the American Legion Post 123 in Berlin. She was an avid Philadelphia Eagles fan, golf lover, nature enthusiast, and an adventurous dog mom with a hippie soul. She was a true force to be reckoned with and an unrelenting advocate for being who you are and doing what you want.

Lizzie graduated from Parkside High School in 2012. She continued her education at Wor-Wic Community College, then completed her bachelor’s degree at Salisbury University in Exercise Science with a minor in Biology and Athletic Coaching. During that time, she joined the Women’s Rugby team and excelled at it, only weighing 100 pounds. She Continued on Page 100

E. Ketterman

was passionate about health and wellness and dreamed of a career in professional athletic training. Lizzie worked many places throughout the years but found a home at Rise Up Coffee. She started as a barista but worked her way up to the store manager of the East College shop where she brought love, laughter, and happiness to all she encountered.

She is survived by her beloved dog, Leia, her parents Michael Ketterman (Dawn Adkins), Laura Patey (Randy Perdue), her sister Paige Ketterman, brother-in-law Adam, as well as her maternal grandfather, Herman Patey, her paternal grandparents, Sandy and Lyn Davis, Jerry and Cindy Ketterman, and best friend Ann Williams. Lizzie was greeted by many angels, her grandmother Janice Patey and great-grandparents, Bob and Rosie Ketterman, Joyce and Bill Scott, as well as her uncle Matt Patey, and childhood pet turtle, Terp.

There is so much left to be said about her but in the end, what she did was make our world better.

A celebration of life will be held on May 25th, 2025, at 2pm at the Willards Lions Club at 36393 Hearn Street Willards, Maryland 21874. In lieu of flowers, we request donations be made to The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), P.O. Box 90249, Austin, TX 78709 in

Lizzie’s memory.

We will live for you every day, Lizzie. #LloveForLizzie

Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin. Condolences may be shared with the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

MICHAEL JAMES VANCE

Berlin

Michael James Vance, age 78, of Berlin, passed away peacefully with his family at his side on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin.

He was born in Baltimore and was the son of the late Lawrence William Vance and Agnes (Coyne) Vance.

Michael’s life was an inspiration to his family and friends who came to know him throughout his many endeavors. He overcame numerous difficulties in his childhood to establish two longstanding, successful businesses in the Baltimore area as the owner of Heritage Homes Real Estate and Heritage Kitchens. Before that, he worked at Norris Ford and Prudential Insurance. After retiring to the Eastern Shore, Michael and his beloved wife of 54 years, Renata, fulfilled a

dream by buying a crop farm in Berlin, where “Grandy and Maw” lived happily with their chickens, dogs, and cats and regularly hosted fun-filled family Sunday gatherings and Thanksgivings.

Known for giving wise advice and offering help in any situation, Grandy was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His family was always the first priority throughout his life. The love of God was evident in Michael’s words and actions, and he consistently demonstrated courage and quiet strength during his yearslong battle with many serious health problems, including two open heart surgeries. Through it all, he and his loving wife Renata were inseparable. Even in the midst of overwhelming health odds, Michael never stopped smiling and reassuring his family and friends with his famous jokes and quirky sense of humor.

Michael had a strong faith in Jesus and was a member of St. John Neumann Roman Catholic Church in Berlin.

Michael is survived by his wife, Renata Louise (Durra) Vance; four daughters, Lisa Michelle Wilson and husband Richard of Berlin, MD, Theresa Louise Helfrich and husband Adam of Croswell, MI, Emily Bridget Taylor and husband Aaron of Frederick, MD, and Renata Anne Lovitt of Pittsville, MD; a brother, Lawrence

William Vance, Jr., of Glen Rock, PA; and nine grandchildren, Sean and Jack Wilson, Concetta and Emma Helfrich, Jonah and Alana Taylor, Mia and Renata Lynn Lovitt, and Olivia Vance Messinger.

In addition to his parents, Michael was preceded in death by his twin brothers, Anthony and Timothy Vance.

Michael was proud of his Irish heritage and planned his own funeral to include a tribute to his ancestry. A viewing will be held on Thursday, May 22, 2025, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Bishop-Hastings Funeral Home, 19 South Main St., Selbyville, DE.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, May 23, 2025, at St. John Neumann Roman Catholic Church, 11211 Beauchamp Rd., Berlin, Md. Burial will be in the Garden of the Pines Cemetery in Berlin.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that gifts in Michael’s memory may be directed to support the research of Dr. Mary Armanios at the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center. Please make checks payable to Johns Hopkins University. Gifts may be mailed with a memo indicating “this gift is in memory of Michael James Vance” to the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center, 750 E. Pratt Street, Suite 1700, Baltimore, Md. 21202 or https://secure.jhu.edu/form/Kimmel.

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com.

JANET

O. CASSIDY

Ocean Pines

Janet O. Cassidy, age 92, of Ocean Pines, died Saturday, May 10, 2025 at Guiding Hands Assisted Living in Berlin. She was born in Plainfield, N.J. and was the daughter of the late Cedric Ostrom and Anna Elizabeth (Chickering) Ostrom.

She was a retired print operator for Bell Labs. Janet was a member of Taylorville Christian Church where she sang in the choir and a former member of Dunellen United Methodist Church in NJ where she served as a superintendent and Sunday school teacher for many years. She was involved with the Fish Organization delivering meals, member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and Red Hat Society. She also served in U.S. Air Force during the Korean War.

Janet is survived by four children, Paul Beckman and wife Susan of Colorado Springs, CO, Elaine Welsch and husband James of Broomfield, CO, Cynthia Simmons and husband David of North Bergen, NJ and Jennifer Stover and husband Bob of Berlin, MD, seven stepchildren, Edward Cassidy and spouse Felix of VA,

Janet O. Cassidy

Michael J. Vance

OBITUARIES

Richard Cassidy and wife Rochelle of FL, Pam Cassidy of PA, Cindy Jane Cassidy of PA, Becky Wolfe of VA, Patti Swank and husband Bob of NJ and Michael Cassidy and wife Lisa of NJ; twenty-eight grandchildren and many great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jennings B. Cassidy; two sons, Christopher Beckmann and Mark Beckmann; and two sisters, Virginia Wicks and Elizabeth Faulks.

A Graveside Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 24, 2025 at Taylorville Church Cemetery, 11252 Adkins Road, Berlin, Md.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to Taylorville Christian Church, P.O. Box 456, Berlin, MD 21811.

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com

VIRGINIA MOSLEY Ocean Pines

It is with a profound sense of sadness that we say so long to Virginia Mosley (Monaco) who passed away on Monday, May 12 after a long struggle with dementia. Not goodbye, but so long.

Virginia was born to Joseph and Dorothy Monaco on Feb. 27, 1945 in Washington, DC. Virginia was predeceased in death by her parents and her four sisters, Barbara Wargo, Dorothy Zagby, Thelma Scott and Joanne Garrison. She is survived by her loving husband, Carl Mosley of Ocean Pines, and her children, Katherine Walter, and Donald Walter. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Heather Willhide, Maxwell Gardner, Amanda (Christian) Cole, Brittany (Tyler) Briggs and Melanie Walter and 3 great-grandchildren, Ava, Nora and Sam.

Graduating from Northwestern High School in Hyattsville, Md. Virginia attended the University of Maryland before entering Government Service. Viginia served in the US Savings Bond Department before becoming a legal secretary in both private and government service, retiring from the Justice Department while working in the prosecutor’s office at the US District Court in Greenbelt.

Carl and Virginia moved to Ocean Pines in 2000 from Howard County knowing that they wanted to live in the land of pleasant living. Traveling throughout the United States and Europe gave them time to explore new vistas and cultures. An avid needlework craftsperson Virginia used her other talents to become a proud baker and hostess to the many family and friends gathering at holidays in her home.

A celebration of life will be held at The Church of Holy Spirit located at 10001 Coastal Highway on Saturday,

May 31 with gathering at 10:30 a.m. and service at 11 a.m. Reception to follow. The Rt. Rev, Santosh Marray, the Eleventh Bishop of the Diocese of Easton will officiate.

In remembrance, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Church of the Holy Spirit in her name.

A special thank you goes out to all the staff at the Woodlands of Ocean Pines and Coastal Hospice who provided such wonderful care to Virginia and the family during this difficult time.

WILLIAM LEWIS MCCULLEY, JR.

Ocean Pines

William Lewis McCulley, Jr.

“Bill”, age 81, of Wilmington, DE passed away surrounded by his family on May 17th, 2025. Born in Wilmington, DE, he was the son of Jean (Johnston) and William Lewis McCulley, Sr. and proudly raised by his Aunt Reba and Uncle John Emering. Bill graduated from P.S. duPont High School and went on to serve his country in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. Following his honorable discharge, he went on to work as an insurance agent for Nation-

wide in the Delmarva area for over 35 years.

Bill and his family enjoyed countless summer vacations at Rehoboth Beach where they made fond memories. After his children were grown, he spent 20 years living in Ocean Pines, Maryland where he enjoyed golf during his retirement. Bill was actively involved in the Salesianum community while his sons were in school and enjoyed the Salesian community. He maintained close friendships with his Salesianum and P.S. duPont High School lunch friends up until his passing. He was also actively involved in the 70’s as the Hickory Hills Civic Association HOA President.

In addition to his parents, Jean and William McCulley, and his aunt and uncle, Reba and John Emering, Bill was predeceased by his son, William Lewis McCulley, III, his daughter-in-law, Cindy McCulley, and his grandchildren, William Ryan and Megan Kenna McCulley. Bill is

survived by his wife of 60 years, Priscilla “Lynn” McCulley; his son and daughter-in-law, Scott Lindsey and Ann McCulley; his daughter, Rebecca McCulley-Carbaugh; his grandchildren, Devin Scott McCulley (Alexandra), Spencer Cruise Carbaugh, Alyssa Mae McCulley and Braden William McCulley; his sister, Eileen Marie Mazzatenta; and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family.

A visitation will be held at the Mealey Funeral Home, 2509 Limestone Road Wilmington, DE 19808 on Tuesday June 3, 2025 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. with funeral services beginning at 11:30 A.M. Burial will follow at 1 P.M. at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to William "Biff" McCulley '83 Memorial Scholarship at Salesianum High School, 1801 N. Broom Street Wilmington, Del. 19802. Online condolences may be made to www.mealeyfuneralhomes.com.

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

.

W. McCulley, Jr.

Virginia Mosley

Beach Lacrosse teams win championships

(May 23, 2025) Beach Lacrosse’s spring season concluded last weekend with the two senior teams winning championships.

As part of the Eastern Shore Youth Lacrosse Association (ESYLA), Beach Lacrosse players competed over an eight-week season against teams across the region, from Kent County to Middletown, Del.

This year, Beach Lacrosse had an impressive showing in the league's competitive divisions (12U and 14U), with three teams earning a spot in the ESYLA Championship tournament, held Saturday, May 17, at the DE Turf. Among those were an undefeated 12U Girls team, an undefeated 14U Boys team, and a strong 14U Girls team, all showcasing the club's strength and depth.

After an undefeated regular season, the 12U Girls entered the tournament as the No. 1 seed. They defeated the Delaware Diamonds 10-5 in the opening round but narrowly fell to Atlantic Lacrosse in the final game, 8-6, finishing as league finalists.

The 14U Boys team advanced to the Championship after a strong 13-3 win over MOT Lacrosse of Middletown, Del. in the semifinals. In the final, they faced Kent Lacrosse and dominated the game with a 12-5 victory to secure the 14U Boys Championship title. The team went undefeated on the season.

The 14U Girls team, entering the tournament as the No. 3 seed with a 41-1 record, faced a challenging threegame schedule. They opened with a win over First State Lacrosse and followed up with a hard-fought win against Kent, with scores of 11-7. In the final game, they faced a tough Atlantic Lacrosse team but came out on top with an impressive 9-3 victory, earning the 14U Girls Championship title.

"I am so incredibly proud of all of our athletes," said Jessica Waters, Beach Lacrosse's president. "These kids and coaches have been putting in the work for the last 10 weeks, and ending it with two championship wins for our 14U Boys and Girls is a perfect way to cap off their time with Beach Lacrosse. We are extremely proud of them, their hard work, and their determination.

“We're also incredibly grateful for our volunteer coaches and the families who make this program so special. As our eighth graders prepare for their next chapter in high school, we hope they take what they have learned at Beach Lacrosse with them, which is to ‘love each other and love the game.’ Of course, the championship win for our eighth grade boys and girls is certainly the cherry on top."

14-and-under boys Beach Lacrosse team is pictured after winning its division championship

(ESYLA). The team was coached by Jerry Andrews, Paulie Smith, Tucker Parr, Mike Hennigan, Phil Mason, Collin

Bahlman. The players included Jaxon Andrews, Louie McFadden, Jack Gates, Brax Giardina, AJ Antol, Lorenzo Gagliardi,

Cruz Smith, William Boutin, Cole Gribble, Fisher Zimmerman, Fletcher Chmar, Maxx Harner, John Parker, Maddox Ferro,

Remy Leverage-Frye, Ryan Somoskey, Ted Timmons, Makai Siedor, Ashton Evans and Jackson Snarsky.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Beach Lacrosse won the ESYLA championship last weekend in the 14-and-under girls division. The team was coached by David Wells, Mike DiPietro, Jessica Waters and Jenny Carven. Players included Riley Mikulski, Bridget Krasner, Brooklyn Brady, Lily Kirby, Hannah Coly, Daijah White, Ella Sullivan, Laila Jones, Kate Reed, Maia DiPietro, Ellie Wells, Jillian Strawley, Brynlee Waters, Clementine Kohut, Rachel Williams, Mykayla Mysco, Mackenzie Maddy, Seaira Carven, Jeorgia Calloway, Carly Watts, Gracyn Robertson, Emmie Seipp and Claire Sullivan.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

The

in the Eastern Shore Youth Lacrosse Association

Fohner, Luke Bahlman and Dave

Ryder Bahlman, Callen Bell,

Brett Conway Jr., Rylan O’Malley,

LADY SEAHAWKS TO PLAY FOR STATE TITLE

For the first time in program history, Stephen Decatur High School’s varsity softball team will play for a Class 2 Maryland state championship. The Lady Seahawks will play Huntingtown on Friday at the University of Maryland. Decatur advanced to the state title game with a 4-3 extra inning win over Damascus on Tuesday, thanks to some late-game heroics. Two squeeze play bunts played pivotal in the game – one by Madison McGinnis scoring Ava Snelsire in the fifth to tie the game and the winner by Julianna Woodall to score Emily Blume in the eighth inning. Along with the strategic baserunning and gutsy bunt calls, Head Coach Scott Kurtz said Blume’s homer in the seventh inning marked a turning point in the game. Blume went deep to send the game into extra innings. Kurtz told WMDT after the game, “This team just has a fight in them. It’s a different season, a different team this year. When Emily Blume hit the home run, you could just sense the energy shift in the game. The girls knew they were right back in it. … We know what we do, we move our runners, we get creative.” The team is pictured after the game with coaches.

Decatur battles back, falls short of state championship

By Steve Green Executive Editor

(May 23, 2025) “We will be back next year.”

The words of Hoffy Hoffman, head coach of the Stephen Decatur boys lacrosse team after losing the MPSSA 2A state title Tuesday night at Stevenson University.

The title game was Decatur’s third game of the year against Kent Island, which has been Decatur’s nemesis for years on the lacrosse field. On March 28, Decatur lost to Kent Island, 14-13, for its only loss of the season. The Seahawks avenged the loss with a 13-11 win in the Bayside Championship game May 5.

In Tuesday’s championship, Kent rolled early out to 7-2 halftime lead. Decatur stormed back in the third quarter, cutting the lead to 7-6 heading into the fourth quarter. With six minutes left, the score was knotted at 12-12 but Kent Island’s Connor Gardner scored with just

over three minutes left to secure the win.

After the game, Kent Island coach Robert Wolley said he expected Decatur’s comeback. Wolley told Delmarva Sports Network, “They are a hard fought team. They play the game really well. They are tenacious all over the field. We didn’t expect for a second they would roll over and give up. The fact we were able to hold on, weather the storm, fight to finish … a true testament to our team tonight.”

A disappointed Hoffman told DSN he was proud of his team’s fight.

“Ultimately what it came down to was settling a lot of nerves,” Hoffman said. “There’s a lot of pressure on the guys. This was our first-eer state championship in lacrosse. We won region, we won Baysides and we all felt this was the storybook ending we should have had.

“We fell short unfortunately tonight but you know … our guys don’t quit, they don’t quiet. We will be back next year.”

PHOTO COURTESY J.P. CATHELL PHOTOGRAPHY

Junior goalie Declan Horan looks to pass up the field in the second half of Tuesday’s Class 2A championship game.

PHOTO COURTESY J.P. CATHELL PHOTOGRAPHY

Midfielder Jacob Nelson scored a critical goal to tie the game at 12-12 with six minutes left, but it was not enough as Kent answered three minutes later to take the lead for good.

PHOTO COURTESY J.P. CATHELL PHOTOGRAPHY

Kent Island sophomore attackman Connor Gardner, pictured defended by junior defensive man Gunner Ketner, scored the game-winning goal with three minutes left.

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SPRING SPORTS AWARDS WINNERS

On Wednesday, May

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Worcester Prep Upper School spring sports program culminated with the annual awards ceremony. During the ceremony, student-athletes received awards for excellence, including the prestigious Eastern Shore Independent Athletic Conference (ESIAC) Championships. Top left, the girls and boys varsity lacrosse award winners are pictured. Top left, front from left, are Coach’s Award Emma Zajdel and MVP Danielle Carr. Most Improved Player Lyla Roberts is not pictured. Standing, from left, are boys team Most Improved Player Lucas Nicastro, MVP Ryan Mann and Coach’s Award Owen West. Top right, spring tennis winners included, seated from left, Coach’s Award Abby Ament, MVP Savannah Palmisano and Most Improved Player Jamie Nguyen; standing, from left, boys team Coach’s Award Edward Marytiken, MVP Aleksey Klimins and Most Improved Player Caleb Walston. Above left, members of the girls lacrosse and girls tennis ESIAC teams included, front from left, girls’ lacrosse awardees Anisha Batra, Harper Hertrich and Emma Zajdel. Standing, from left, girls tennis awardees Savannah Palmisano, Sydney Todorov, Abby Ament and Angeline Todorov. Sydney Tingle is not pictured. Above, Prep varsit y boys basketball coach Eddie Rohe was awarded the ESIAC Coach of the Year in winter sports at the ceremony. Pictured, from left, are WPS Athletics Director Mike Grosso, players Ansh Batra, Paxton Mault, WPS JV Boys Basketball Coach James Mitchell, player James Haley, Rohe, and players Danny Kirwan and Owen West.