03/06/2026 OC Today-Dispatch

Sign up now for our new, Monday-Friday newsletter. — Page 55

Atlantic General now

TidalHealth Atlantic

Patients of both medical care providers will find online portals merged into one as AGH gets a new name and two institutions take final step in joining forces. — PAGE 13

Ocean City asks county to base its annual grant to resort on percentage of property tax resort’s property owners pay Worcester. — PAGE 6

Oceans

Calling reveals lineup

Fall seems a long time from now but it’s not too soon to announce full lineup booked for OC’s annual beach music festival. — PAGE 12

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Audit of school system finds ‘questionable’ fiscal activity

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(March 6, 2026) Worcester County Public Schools’ first state audit in nine years uncovered “questionable” purchasing activity by a management employee that was referred to prosecutors, flagged lapses in employee background checks, and found potential overpayments to bus contractors totaling more than $1 million.

The 36-page report, released Feb. 26 by the state’s Office of Legislative Audits, also found that the district failed to adequately monitor its health insurance administrator, and noted that a vendor data breach exposed sensitive student and staff data, including medical information and Social Security numbers.

Auditors referred “questionable procurement activity involving a management employee” to the Office of the Maryland State Prosecutor. That agency investigates cases involving public corruption and official misconduct, as well as election law and campaign finance violations. The employee was not mentioned by name.

The audit also found that WCPS did not always perform required screenings when hiring for positions that involve direct contact with minors. A 2019 state law requires that applicants disclose in writing whether they were the subject of a child sexual abuse or sexual misconduct investigation by any employer that resulted in a finding.

When auditors randomly sampled 10 employees out of the 317 people hired since that law took effect, they found that WCPS had not performed the screening for six of those employees, some of whom had been on the job more than a year.

“Without a proper screening,” auditors reported, “WCPS lacks assurance regarding the conduct of the individuals it hired.”

In its audit response, WCPS wrote, “effective immediately, WCPS has taken corrective action to ensure full compliance with state law requirements.” The response stated, “WCPS has reinforced Human Resources hiring procedures to require completion and documentation of the mandated screening for all applicants being considered for positions involving direct contact with minors, including care, supervision, guidance, control, or routine interaction.”

The response continued, “No applicant may be fully cleared for assignment to a school or student program without verification that the required screening has been completed or is actively in progress in accordance with State guidance.

“To further strengthen compliance, WCPS will provide additional training and guidance to Human Resources staff to ensure consistent understanding of statutory requirements and documentation expectations.”

Auditors also reported on a Dec. 28,

2024, cybersecurity incident involving a breach of personal information belonging to current and former students and staff, which also affected other Maryland school districts. WCPS alerted students and educators about the security breach on Jan. 10, 2025.

Information about the cybersecurity breach was redacted from the public version of the audit. Auditors said they provided an unredacted version to government officials responsible for acting on their recommendations.

The audit also found that WCPS could not support how it calculated about $1.8 million in bus maintenance payments to its 69 bus contractors in fiscal year 2024. Bus maintenance reimbursements are set at $1.072 per mile, but WCPS did not compile or analyze cost data to determine appropriate reimbursement rates, auditors noted.

WCPS also reimbursed bus contractors for fuel taxes they didn’t actually have to pay, the audit found. Reimbursements included the cost of fuel tax, but bus contractors are exempt from those taxes and can claim refunds on them. Auditors estimated that mistake cost about $1 million over four years.

Auditors explicitly stated that this same bus payment problem was flagged in the previous audit, and WCPS didn’t correct it.

In the “agency response form,” WCPS said before July it would “work to obtain from Contractors actual maintenance costs as a basis for establishing contractor rates for per mile maintenance costs or otherwise develop supportable cost estimates as the basis for per mile maintenance costs.”

Further, the response stated, “WCPS will examine the procedure of excluding fuel excise taxes from Bus Contractor payments. Contractor rates are approved annually by our Board as part of the budget process. Any change including the exclusion of fuel taxes would be subject to Board approval.”

Auditors also found the school system wasn’t closely monitoring its health insurance Third Party Administrator (TPA) and wasn’t double-checking what it was being charged or verifying the contractor’s performance. WCPS healthcare spending totaled approximately $20.3 million for fiscal year 2024, the audit noted.

OF TECIT

The agency response stated, “WCPS concurs with the finding and recommendations. As referenced in background information, the TPA’s contractual relationship is with Worcester County Government. WCPS will work with our county government to strengthen oversight and ensure compliance.”

As far as the auditor’s disclosure of “questionable” purchases by a central office employee, this report provided no

See WCPS Page 4

NO

School system responds to findings

By Stewart Dobson Editor

(March 6, 2026) While acknowledging the seriousness of the findings revealed last week in the audit of school operations by the Maryland Office of Legislative Audits, the Worcester County Board of Education this week said that office’s conclusions came across harsher than warranted.

In two of the audit’s more serious observations, mitigating circumstances should have been considered, school officials believe. They contend that is the case with the audit’s finding that suggested background checks on new hires were either inadequate or nonexistent.

The findings failed to consider that a major component of these checks — contacting an individual’s former employers — could not be completed if former employers do not respond to the local system’s inquiries. Even so, most of these

situations, which school officials said involved insufficient documentation of background checks, have been remedied.

As for overpayment of school bus contractors, officials maintain the auditors’ finding that the school system overpaid them by $1.8 million is wrong.

The audit office contended that the school board compensated bus contractors for the fuel excise taxes they didn’t have to pay and that board didn’t do its cost analysis homework when it established the bus maintenance reimbursement rates.

The board countered, however, that the rates on which contractors’ compensation is based are negotiated with the Worcester County Bus Contractors Association and that contractors were paid according to those rates. Excise fuel taxes, paid or not paid, did not figure into the amount the school system was contractually obligated to pay.

Still, these explanations don’t negate the need to address the deficiencies and confusing information.

“Both school system leadership and the Board of Education take any findings identified by this audit process very seriously, and it is anticipated that the report and any corrective actions will be discussed at the next Board of Education meeting,” said a statement issued Wednesday by Carrie Sterrs, coordinator of public relations and special programs.

The board can take heart in knowing that the office issued seven findings in its case, when the average number of findings in audits of other public schools in the state is 10, according to a check of the office’s website. In addition, according to the school administration, many of the corrective actions indicated in the board’s response to the officer have already been implemented.

WCPS practices queried by state

Continued from Page 3

Auditors say they’ll release a separate report with those findings at a later date. They also noted that a referral to the state prosecutor’s office does not mean that a criminal act has occurred or that criminal charges will be filed.

While the audit did not mention her by name, a search-and-seizure team from the Office of the Maryland State Prosecutor was seen Dec. 13 at the West Ocean City home of Denise “Dee” Shorts, WCPS chief academic officer for grades Pre-K through 8. Shorts is currently on administrative leave, WCPS has confirmed.

On the same day as that residential raid, state law enforcement authorities executed a search-and-seizure warrant “on a specific office within the central office of WCPS,” according to school board attorney Heather Stansbury.

Typically, the state conducts audits of its 24 school districts every six years, but WCPS hasn’t been audited in nine years. That’s because, ahead of its most recent audit release in June 2017, WCPS in September 2016 asked for and was granted an exemption for the 2017 to 2022 audit window.

Under state law, an exemption requires that the county’s governing body, the school board, and its state legislators all make the request in writing. A school system can’t be exempt for two consecutive audits, the law also says.

Notably, in April 2025, Worcester County Commissioner Caryn Abbott publicly questioned why WCPS hadn’t been audited in years and asked her fellow commissioners to request one in writing, which they approved unanimously.

Ahead of the public audit release, WCPS formally responded Feb. 20 to the findings, promising to correct the deficiencies and implement corrective measures. The school system agreed with the findings and outlined plans to address weaknesses in hiring procedures, contractor payments, and health insurance oversight.

WCPS operates with an annual budget of roughly $171 million.

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OC seeks grant funding change from county

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(March 6, 2026) Ocean City officials are asking Worcester County government to link some of the city’s annual grant funding to a percentage of county property taxes paid by resort homeowners.

Resort officials say the “unrestricted” grant they get annually at budget time hasn’t kept pace with the taxes its property owners send to Snow Hill. Now, rather than requesting specific dollars amounts year by year, Ocean City wants the county to restore a formula from 2015 that ties grant funding to 3.7% of tax revenues.

Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan on Tuesday asked the county commissioners to make this into a funding formula for the foreseeable future. For next year, that translates into an

unrestricted grant of $3.67 million.

The pitch was part of the county’s annual day of municipal budget requests, where leaders from Ocean City, Berlin, Snow Hill and Pocomoke City, and directors from the Ocean Pines Association (OPA), all show up in person to say why they need money.

Meehan noted that, a decade ago, Ocean City taxpayers contributed $65.6 million toward county property tax revenue, while the city’s unrestricted county grant – money the town can spend at its discretion – totaled $2.4 million.

Today, resort homeowners are now paying almost $100 million in property taxes, Meehan said – meaning taxpayers have given the county 40% more money, but the county’s grant back to the resort increased by

just 16%.

“We think that’s fair and it’s equitable and it’s also consistent, as the amount of revenue coming to the county from Ocean City has increased so dramatically,” he told the commissioners.

Meehan also noted how, for the first time, city and county officials agreed to sit down and discuss a tax differential – the idea that Ocean City property owners should get a county property tax rebate for paying the county for services it doesn’t use because the city already provides them.

It’s a topic that Meehan and Ocean City for years have unsuccessfully lobbied the county to consider. The issue even went to court in 2018, when the city sued the county to force its hand. Maryland’s highest court in 2021 ultimately ruled in the county’s

favor, saying state law leaves the county free to provide annual municipal grants instead of a tax differential.

All in, the towns and OPA on Tuesday came asking for $21.5 million in fiscal year 2027 grants, roughly $3.5 million more than the $18 million they collectively received last year.

Ocean City is asking for $10.8 million in fiscal year 2027 grants, inclusive of a restricted grant. The request includes $1.3 million for West Ocean City ambulance service, $400,000 for tourism marketing, and $125,000 for downtown redevelopment.

Pocomoke City Mayor Todd Nock and Councilwoman Brooke Cottman stood to represent their town. They’re requesting $2.8 million, up from $2.4 million last year. That includes a request of $150,000 toward construction of a new community center, and $42,153 toward sidewalk repairs and pedestrian safety upgrades.

Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall’s request is also for $2.8 million, up from $2.4 million last year, and includes $250,000 toward design work for a Flower Street community center.

Snow Hill Mayor Janet Simpson and Town Manager Rick Pollitt came to ask for $2.6 million, up from $2.2 million last year. Their request includes $100,000 to fund a massive

Towns eye funds for big projects

Continued from Page 6

renovation of their Bank Street promenade and $110,000 for sidewalks to schools.

The Ocean Pines Association – a homeowners association of about 12,000 full-time and 8,000 parttime residents that’s treated for funding purposes as a municipality – is requesting $2.7 million, up from $2.1 million last year.

Represented by association President John Latham and Vice President Rick Farr, OPA is asking for $150,000 for road and bridge repairs and $100,000 toward a new fire station.

After a series of scheduled budget work sessions in April and May, the county’s fiscal year 2027 budget is set to be confirmed June 2.

Parking rules shift following outcry

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(March 6, 2026) After giving homeowners bad guidance about parking rules for short-term rentals and then revoking their rental permits, Worcester County officials voted to change the law so those homeowners can qualify again.

In a 6-1 vote, with Commissioner Jim Bunting dissenting, the Worcester County Commissioners voted to shift the effective date of a third parkingspace requirement for short-term rental licensees from Jan. 1, 2020, to April 17, 2026.

Some commissioners expressed contrition for the administrative mistake, one that reportedly led to many West Ocean City homeowners losing rental income.

“This is an absolutely despicable sit-

uation – the fact that this government told residents and property owners that they could do something, and to then go back three years later and revoke what they were told they could do, I have a very difficult time with,” said Commissioner Chip Bertino (District 5, Ocean Pines).

The approved zoning text amendment restores short-term rental eligibility to homeowners whose permits were revoked under a two-space interpretation of the rule between 2020 and 2025. The three-space requirement will remain in place for building permits filed in the future.

The issue stems from a 2019 county law requiring short-term rental properties to provide three off-street parking spaces. While that law took effect for building permits issued on or after Jan. 1, 2020, an exception was carved out for homeowners whose building permits were issued before the end of 2019, meaning they only needed to offer two parking spots. The policy also allowed for shared parking to count toward a third space.

But despite the three-space rule, the county’s Department of Development Review and Permitting from 2020 through mid-2025 issued short-term rental permits to properties that provided only two spaces.

Last summer, after questions were

raised within The Landings at Bayside community, county officials began enforcing the requirement as written, determining that shared parking did not satisfy the code. Instead, officials required an exclusive, dedicated offstreet parking space.

County officials have said those administrative decisions were made by a former rental license coordinator who is no longer employed by the county.

Many homeowners said they would never have bought in The Landings –spending as much as $750,000 on houses – if they hadn’t been allowed to use their properties for short-term rentals. Multiple emails between homeowners, builders, and county officials back that up, according to Commissioner Eric Fiori (District 3, West Ocean City.)

“We failed the public. We really did,” Fiori said Tuesday. “We’re talking about millions of dollars in real estate that were purchased based on information that came from our own county department.”

The strict interpretation of the parking rule in August 2025 resulted in 20 short-term licenses being revoked in The Landings, with additional properties affected in nearby Seaside Village.

The move upset many homeowners, including Christy Agnese, who filed pa-

Rental owners challenge county

perwork with the county asking for the law to be changed.

She said the parking law created inequity for homeowners, with two classes of rental properties: those with two parking spaces, and those with three. Some property owners even went to the expense of adding a third parking space so they could meet the code.

In a public hearing held Tuesday, Agnese told the commissioners that, after the ordeal, “I don’t have any more funds to keep this going.”

“The next person that’s going to be in my home is either going to be a paying short-term rental guest, or a real estate agent, because I’m going to have to sell,” she said. “My property rights are being taken away at this point in time. It’s such an unfortunate situation that we’re in today. It’s unjust and I’m looking to the commissioners to right this wrong – and make sure it doesn’t happen again.”

Most of the 16 other speakers urged the commissioners to proceed with the amendment and correct what they described as a costly government error.

Karen Nixon of The Landings said the county’s administrative error had “brought out the very worst in some people” and caused some residents to lose rental income while pitting neighbors against each other.

A handful of opponents warned that restoring short-term rental eligibility to people with two parking spaces instead of three would increase congestion and strain neighborhood infrastructure. They argued the county should not weaken an existing parking standard to resolve an administrative mistake.

Donald Marsh said he doesn’t feel sorry for the people burdened by the situation but hopes they can be made whole. “When my wife and I purchased our property 16 years ago, we knew there was a parking restriction,” he said. “My life quality will be reduced by the approval of this legislation.”

Commissioners noted the legislation corrects an administrative error but does not address any potential legal claims stemming from the earlier revocations. The amendment also does not override homeowners’ association rules, which may impose their own parking or rental restrictions independent of county law.

Affected homeowners would need to reapply for short-term rental licenses under the amended code, according to Planning Director Jennifer Keener.

In a related move, the commissioners on Tuesday also approved a new law that requires a minimum 7-foot height for provided off-street garage parking.

Musical lineup announced for this fall’s Oceans Calling

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(March 6, 2026) Dave Matthews Band, Twenty One Pilots, Gwen Stefani and Mumford & Sons will be among the headliners to grace the stages at this year’s Oceans Calling Festival, which will return to Ocean City Sept. 25-27.

On Tuesday, C3 Presents promoter Tim Sweetwood announced the lineup for the fourth annual music festival. This year, more than 40 national acts will perform across three stages.

“We have some brand new folks and we have a couple of repeats, some that are favorites to some people,” Sweetwood said in a radio announcement this week. “So hopefully it does not disappoint.”

In addition to Dave Matthews Band, Friday’s concert lineup will include Hootie & the Blowfish, Ludacris, O.A.R., Yellowcard, Shaggy, Liz Phair, Everlast, Gavin DeGraw, Better Than Ezra, Sons of Legion, KT Tunstall, Shwayze, King Stingray and Linka Moja.

On Saturday, the festivities continue with performances by Twenty One Pilots, Gwen Stefani, Goo Goo Dolls, Third Eye Blind, All Time Low, 311, Violent Femmes, Dashboard Confessional, Corinne Bailey Rae, Everclear, Dishwalla, Goldford and Cassandra Coleman.

The festival will conclude on Sunday with Mumford & Sons, Matchbox

Twenty, Caamp, My Morning Jacket, The Head and the Heart, Hanson, Jet, OK Go, Susanna Hoffs, Cory Wong, Fastball and Nat Myers, with a special set performed by O.A.R. and Friends.

“A couple of special guests are on there that might even relate to next year’s festival,” Sweetwood said. “So it will be a cool one.”

The entire lineup, and additional information, can be found at www.oceanscallingfestival.com. Ticket sales began Thursday.

In addition to the music, Oceans Calling celebrates the return of chef Robert Irvine and host Jason Biggs alongside culinary stars Antonia Lofaso and more. Festivalgoers will also have access to the Ocean City Boardwalk and businesses within the festival footprint, as well as Jolly Roger at the Pier amusement park.

Oceans Calling will be one of two music festivals held in Ocean City in 2026. Country Calling will return to a two-day format, with performances scheduled for Oct. 2-3.

“It’s in the works …,” Sweetwood said of the Country Calling lineup. “It’s not easy to pull a rabbit out of the hat.”

The second installment of Boardwalk Rock – also produced by C3 Presents –will not return this spring, as the cancellation of two headline acts had forced the promoter to scrap the 2026 event entirely.

AGH gets new name as part of TidalHealth partnership

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(March 6, 2026) In the latest step in the merger between TidalHealth and Atlantic General Hospital, the latter will now be known as TidalHealth Atlantic, and the organization is rolling out a new, more connected electronic medical record system called Epic MyChart.

The two health care systems finalized their agreement to merge under the TidalHealth umbrella in early May 2025. Now, 10 months later, that marriage has reached a new milestone: the unveiling of a new name for AGH.

The announcement came on Wednesday, when hospital officials revealed that AGH is now TidalHealth Atlantic. All Atlantic General Health System locations will adopt TidalHealth naming conventions during the relabeling process. For instance, Atlantic General Primary Care will become TidalHealth Primary Care.

Additionally, TidalHealth Home Scripts and AGHRx RediScripts are to be called TidalHealth Community Pharmacy, and Your Doc’s In is to be called TidalHealth Urgent Care. AtlanticGeneral.org will also now redirect website visitors to TidalHealth.org.

New signage installation at all AGH

locations will be finalized by the first week of April.

Officials maintain that medical and facility staff will remain consistent to sustain the system’s commitment to local, reliable care.

“Our community is what makes our hospital,” said Doug Cook, the TidalHealth Atlantic Board chairperson.

“The employees, the patients, all the people who work here that depend on this hospital…The name on the building has changed, but the people that make up the culture are still here. The doctors, the nurse practitioners, the PAs, the nurses, the medical staff, the facility management, the food and beverage people. They’re all still here, they’re all still the same.”

TidalHealth Atlantic President Don Owrey noted that the name change is the latest turning point in AGH history.

AGH opened its doors in Berlin as an independent entity in 1993. Owrey said that on that first day, the medical team treated 37 patients and delivered twins.

Since then, the organization has celebrated numerous achievements, including the creation of the Sorin Women's Diagnostic Center in 2005, the opening of the James G. Barrett Building, the establishment of the can-

See ATLANTIC Page 14

gets fresh name

cer center in 2018, and, in 2024, the launch of the Gudelsky Family Medical Center in Ocean Pines.

The rebranding certifies the former AGH as part of the TidalHealth system.

“It's more than just a visual change,” Owrey said. “It is a reflection of the promise that we are better together. It affirms our shared commitment to bring an even higher level of care to our community.

“Over the course of these past ten months, teams from TidalHealth and Atlantic General Hospital have been actively working together to align our businesses, clinical operations, and redesigning our work to improve the quality, access, and availability of services right here in our community.”

Additionally, in an effort to provide more efficient care, TidalHealth Atlantic and its associated offices have transitioned away from the web-based patient portal FollowMyHealth to the better-connected Epic MyChart.

Owrey said that the new platform was launched on Sunday, March 1. The portal allows medical staff to optimize

patient care. The electronic record enables teams to work across locations, communicate with each other, share expertise, and adopt a more coordinated and effective approach.

“If someone receives care here at TidalHealth Atlantic and then visits another TidalHealth facility, that medical information flows with them. And it’s easily accessible by everyone involved in their care,” Owrey said.

from all over the area to various doctors and PAs,” he said. “I can see your ENT note, I can see your biopsy results, I can see that your heart medicine was just changed a week ago, and now you’re having symptoms. It really gives us a lot more information with a lot more power that helps us serve the community better.”

TidalHealth President and CEO

“It leads to better communication, fewer delays, less duplication of services, and a more complete picture of the patient’s health. It's the gold standard in the health care industry.”

Cody Taylor, an emergency medicine physician, added that the system provides doctors with more information than was available with the previous platform.

“We have access to patient visits

Steve Leonard said that, as part of the merger, the hospital system intends to expand services, including robotics and orthopedics, enhance facilities, invest in technology, and create new opportunities for the health care teams.

“Most importantly, this partnership allows us to better support the health and well-being of Worcester and Sussex Counties for the long term with care provided here close to home,” he said.

Primary election shifts to OC hotel

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(March 6, 2026) This year’s primary election in Ocean City is getting bumped to an uptown hotel because of a packed June schedule at the resort’s convention center.

For state and national elections, the Princess Royale at 91st Street is scheduled to host both the June 23 primary and the Nov. 3 general election for voters in the Ocean City precinct, according to Jocelyn Abbott, director of the Worcester County Board of Elections.

She said those arrangements had been made before she became director this year. Abbott in January replaced longtime director Patti Jackson, who retired after 40 years in the position.

Municipal elections, however, won’t change. The Town of Ocean City will still use the 40th Street convention center as

polling site for both a special election on April 21 – to fill the seat of former councilman Tony DeLuca, who stepped down from his position last month after questions were raised about his residency –and for mayoral and council elections on Nov. 3, according to City Clerk Diana Chavis.

Early voting, which is not tied to voting precincts, has its own separate schedule. Abbott said early voting for the primary is scheduled for the Ocean Pines Community Center from June 11-18. Then, early voting for the general election is scheduled for Oct. 22-29 at Ocean City’s convention center.

While the Board of Elections manages the logistics for running state and national elections, the venue’s leadership says their hands are mostly tied by a packed calendar and honoring longstanding contracts.

Larry Noccolino, executive director of the Roland E. Powell Convention Center, said fitting in a primary election in the month of June wasn’t going to be possible in 2026.

The venue was booked in advance with annual events like the Maryland State Fireman’s Association convention, the summer conference of the Maryland Municipal League, and a convention of the Maryland Bar Association.

The issue came to light at the tail end of Tuesday’s meeting of the Worcester County Commissioners when Joe Mitrecic, who represents Ocean City in District 7, raised the scheduling conflict.

Mitrecic expressed some concern that resort voters would have to cast ballots at two different polling locations, result in confusion. He also called hosting an election at the hotel site “unacceptable.”

See HOTEL Page 18

OC Chamber will host job fair

(March 6, 2026) The Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce invites job seekers to jumpstart their careers at its upcoming Job Fair on Saturday, March 21, 2026, from noon to 2 p.m. at the Princess Royale Oceanfront Resort in the Palmetto Ballroom, located at 9110 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842.

This event is free for job seekers and offers a valuable opportunity to meet face-to-face with employers hiring for both seasonal and year-round positions. Local businesses across a wide range of industries will be on-site, including restaurants, hotels, amusement parks, construction/engineering firms, retail stores, banks, watersports operators, and more.

Attendees are encouraged to dress for

success and bring a pen, valid ID, and multiple copies of their resume to make the most of this opportunity.

Employers looking to hire are encouraged to reserve booth space now. Booths are $200 for Chamber members ($100 for each additional space) and $275 for non-members ($200 for each additional space). Businesses that join the Chamber within 30 days of the event will have $75 of their booth fee applied toward membership. Booth fees include one table and two chairs.

Employers interested in participating can contact Joanna Aydelotte at joanna@oceancity.org.

For more information about the Job Fair, visit www.oceancity.org, email joanna@oceancity.org, or call 443-6643052.

Hotel to serve as polling locale

Continued from Page 16

Instead, he wants to see the county’s primary election held at the Worcester County Senior Center (also known as the 50plus Center) which is located adjacent to the convention center, and then host the county’s Nov. 3 general election back at the convention center.

“There is parking down across from the senior center, and I think that a request to move it to the senior center

would allow us to have the general election back at the convention center where it needs to be,” he said, adding, “It would be far less confusing for the people of Ocean City moving forward to vote.”

Mitrecic’s motion to send that request in writing to the Board of Elections was approved unanimously.

A representative from the Princess Royale could not be reached for comment.

Berlin woman to serve prison time for theft

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(March 6, 2026) A Berlin woman who pleaded guilty last year to identity theft, wire fraud and tax evasion will spend four years in federal prison.

On Feb. 27, a U.S. District Court judge in Baltimore sentenced Tammy Barcu, 56, to four years of incarceration, followed by six months of home detention and three years of supervised release, for embezzling $1.79 million from her former employer, Ocean City-based Resort Homes, and concealing those payments from both the company and the Internal Revenue Service.

Although the case reached its conclusion this week, Barcus entered a guilty plea last September following a months-long criminal investigation.

“She expressed her remorse for what she did and that she was truly sorry for

putting the victims through this,” Steve Rakow, Barcus’s attorney, said in a statement Friday. “The judge stated that he imposed what he believed was a reasonable sentence that took into account the circumstances of the case, her admission and acceptance of responsibility, and the fact that she came to court with $100,000 in restitution to begin repaying the victims for their loss.”

In October 2024, Resort Homes filed a civil suit against Barcus, the company’s bookkeeper, and her husband, Ron Barcus, the company’s tile and marble subcontractor, alleging the couple defrauded the business out of more than $1.5 million over the course of several years.

The suit claimed that Tammy Barcus wrote unauthorized payments – totaling more than $200,000 per year – to

Ron Barcus and concealed the transactions as payments to other legitimate companies. Resort Homes alleged Ron Barcus had then endorsed the falsified checks and deposited them into the couple’s bank accounts.

After discovering the accounting discrepancies, the company notified Maryland State Police, which began an investigation. The lawsuit also reported Tammy Barcus had confessed to the fraudulent activity, which was recorded by a state trooper.

In February 2025, a Worcester County Circuit Court judge halted proceedings in the civil suit after learning that federal prosecutors were considering criminal charges. Ron Barcus was not the target of any criminal investigation, according to Rakow.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Barcus admitted to embezzling at

least $1.79 million and concealing her crimes.

In her guilty plea, Barcus admitted to wire fraud, aggravated identity theft and tax evasion, acknowledging that she worked for the home builder “as a trusted employee with substantial control over business records and financial accounts.”

As part of her daily job duties, Barcus had access to payment systems and accounting records that belonged to the home builder and “worked with a high degree of independence.”

The U.S. Attorney’s Office also reported Barcus had made false edits and entries to the company’s internal accounting records to cover up the fraudulent activity.

“From 2016 through 2024, Barcus used her position of trust to embezzle money by issuing more than 500 fraudulently authorized checks from the home builder’s business bank account,” a news release said. “Barcus forged the signature of one of the owners on the face of the business checks and then deposited the checks into bank accounts she controlled. She then used the money for her personal enrichment.”

Those expenditures, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, included credit card payments, mortgage payments and vehicle loan payments for a $90,707 Dodge Ram 4WD Mega Cab pickup truck, an $82,120 Chevrolet Suburban Z71, and a $106,206 Sea Chaser boat with outboard motor and trailer.

“The purchase of these two vehicles and the boat totaled approximately $279,000. Down payments totaled approximately $37,049, and ongoing monthly payments were $2,788,” a sentencing memorandum reads.

“These purchases were not one-time indulgences,” the memorandum continued. “These financial obligations coincided with and were sustained by the continuation of her fraudulent scheme. Simply put, her lifestyle depended on continued deception.”

Ultimately, the U.S. Attorney’s Office sought a sentence of 57 months of incarceration and three years of supervised release — including restitution of $562,883 to the IRS and restitution of more than $1.7 million to her former employer.

“Barcus’s embezzlement, identity theft, and tax offenses demonstrate that the nature and circumstances of her offenses were very egregious and warrant a lengthy period of incarceration,” the memorandum reads.

In court this week, a federal judge ordered Barcus to serve 48 months, followed by six months of home detention and three years of supervised release. She has also been ordered to make restitution to her victims.

Rakow said his client remains on pre-trial release until April 27, when she’ll self-surrender to the Federal Bureau of Prisons at a location to be determined.

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POLICE/COURTS

Drug possession charges

A service call early Monday morning for a fire alarm activation resulted in serious drug charges being filed.

On March 2, around 1:21 a.m., an Ocean City police officer arrived at a condominium building for a fire alarm and found two individuals, Candy Lankford, 41, of Ocean City, and David Eidman III, 32, of Ocean City, acting as if they were under the influence of drugs. The police officer said Lankford was seated in a vehicle thrashing around.

When she noticed police, Lankford exited the vehicle and ran to a stairwell before emerging and speaking with police. Officers immediately noticed Lankford was “contorting her body, grinding her teeth, could not stand still, … and was spontaneously making grunting and groaning noises,” according to the statement of probable cause.

Police searched the stairwell and found a purple container that had been discarded containing a glass smoking device and various drugs, including crack cocaine. Inside the “crack pipe” police found a burnt piece of Chore Boy, which is used as filter for inhalation.

Lankford initially told police the substances and paraphernalia found belonged to Eidman, although officers observed her as the individual who ran to the stairwell and emerged.

Police searched the vehicle and found a backpack where Lankford had been seated. A container was located contain-

ing multiple small rock-like substances believed to be crack cocaine. Two more glass smoking devices were located with burnt white residue inside. Also located were 10 blue pills believed to be amphetamine. Lankford’s license was found in the backpack, leading police to conclude the contents belonged to her.

Lankford is charged with two counts of possession of a controlled dangerous substance-not cannabis and four counts of CDS paraphernalia possession.

Eidman is charged with one count of possession of a controlled dangerous substance-not cannabis and two counts of CDS paraphernalia possession.

Drunk driving, weapons

A Virginia man has been charged with multiple weapons violations after an assault investigation.

On Feb. 24, around 2:16 a.m., Ocean City police responded to a bar for an assault that had occurred. Three victims were identified and told police they were threatened with a large “butcher’s knife” with a wooden handle by Charles Johnson Jr., 60, of Portsmouth, Va.

The victims told police about the suspect and the vehicle in which he fled the scene. Police used City Watch cameras to locate the vehicle and found the vehicle nearby on 5th Street. Johnson exhibited signs of intoxication as he exited the vehicle. He refused to submit to field sobriety tests.

Continued on Page 23

Annexation eyed for Snow Hill development

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(March 6, 2026) Summerfield is back, but not in the way Snow Hill might remember.

A new annexation proposal is reviving the Summerfield name in Snow Hill, attaching it to a smaller housing project led by Matt Odachowski. He is the

brother of Mark Odachowski, who spearheaded the earlier, much larger residential development project 20 years ago that never came to fruition.

Matt Odachowski on Jan. 21 filed a petition seeking to annex 166.7 acres, most of which he already owns, into Snow Hill’s municipal limits. The proposal outlines a planned community fea-

Continued from Page 22

A search of the vehicle found two concealed dangerous weapons – one fixed blade butcher-style knife with a wooden handle and one fixed blade machete with a black handle. Also located was an opened bottle of vodka on the floor. Johnson is charged with two concealed dangerous weapons charges, possession of an assisted opening knife and charges associated with driving while intoxicated. Johnson was also found to not have a valid driver’s license.

Teen caught drug dealing

A Maryland teen has been charged with drug dealing after police pulled him for traffic offenses.

On Feb. 28, around 11 p.m., Ocean City police initiated a traffic stop after an unsafe lane change and failing to stop behind the stop line in the area of 28th

Street. At one point, the Volkswagen, driven by Malachi Cropper, 19, of Beltsville, pulled directly in front of a police officer, forcing the cop to brake to avoid a collision.

When the officer approached the vehicle, the odor of “unburnt” cannabis was immediately detected. Cropper admitted to being a minor and unable to possess marijuana legally. He also admitted to his vehicle’s window tint being too dark.

A search of the vehicle found two large bags of cannabis in the center console along with a large amount of cash totaling $7,900, all in $100 bill increments wrapped together by a rubber band.

Located next to the cannabis and cash was a digital scale used to measure and prepare for distribution. Next to the scale was a box of clear sandwich bag used for packaging and distributing. More cannabis was found in the glove

turing a mix of about 300 single-family homes, duplexes, multi-family dwellings, alongside a small commercial component.

Annexation would allow the property to be developed under Snow Hill’s zoning and connected to town sewer and water services.

The new Summerfield would be built

box.

Behind the driver’s seat, police also located an open bottle of Lunazul tequila. Cropper is charged with possession of a controlled dangerous substance with intent to distribute, possession over the civil limit, possession of an open container and traffic offenses.

on the Pocomoke River-facing side of Market Street, described as a contiguous extension of Snow Hill’s downtown. According to the 57-page proposal, the development is expected to attract moderate-income residents employed in the immediate area, including personnel from NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility.

The plan – submitted to the town under the name Summerfield in Snow Hill, LLC – notes that most of the land is already designated a “Growth Area” in both county and municipal comprehensive plans, meaning planners have long identified it as suitable for future development.

The new proposal, however, is dramatically smaller than its namesake predecessor.

The original Summerfield covered nearly 1,000 acres and proposed 2,400

Summerfield housing planned

Continued from Page 23

homes when it was pitched in 2005. That version, which even included plans for a new municipal wastewater treatment plant, was ultimately doomed by the Great Recession.

While Snow Hill initially had annexed 966 acres to accommodate that growth, the town adopted a charter amendment in 2019 undoing the annexation and returning the land to Worcester County.

Hugh Cropper, attorney for Matt Odachowski, described the new Summerfield as a “completely different concept” from the brother’s previous attempt.

The new version notably lacks the master-designed “town center” as featured in the original, he said.

“The only thing about it is the same name, but it’s a completely different entity,” Cropper said. “It is a different entity and a different person. It’s not meant to cause confusion. It’s meant to keep it in the family.”

Snow Hill encompasses about 993 acres, or 1.55 square miles, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. That includes 46 acres just annexed earlier this year near the town’s elementary and middle schools. Adding 166.7 acres would boost its square footage to 1,160 acres, a 16.8% increase.

Snow Hill Town Manager Rick Pollitt said the developer approached town officials with the idea last year. The town met Feb. 20 with Worcester County

planners to discuss how the new residential property would be zoned to stay consistent with existing county zoning.

The developer is asking for 300 sewerage units, or EDUs, which the town said it’s willing to provide from its base of about 1,800 available EDUs. The annexation plan also says police and fire service would not be affected, and that nearby public schools could accommodate the growth.

Pollitt said Snow Hill won’t be expected to pay for anything, and that the developer will carry the full cost to build, including any new roads, electric connections, plumbing, attorney fees, and more. The developer’s plan says the addition of new property taxes would save the town from being burdened by new services.

So far, there’s no timeline on the project. Pollitt said it’s too soon to know how long it might take to complete, though he believes the homes would be built in phases.

Annexation would require a resolution by the mayor and Town Council, along with a negotiated annexation agreement spelling out zoning and development conditions.

“I’m always hopeful when there’s positive energy at work,” Pollitt said. “That the vision behind all this conforms with how most of the people in town feel about their community, and it’ll be something that enhances the image everyone has of Snow Hill now.”

Parade, festival returns to OC next Saturday

made a $50,000 donation to the Macky and Pam Stansell House at Coastal Hospice.

(March 6, 2026) Ocean City will be aglow in green as the St. Patrick’s Parade and Festival, sponsored by the Delmarva Irish American Club, returns Saturday, March 14, and is sure to be bigger and better than ever.

The event, which began in 1980, has grown to become the largest St. Patrick’s parade in Maryland and is the seasonal kick-off for many local businesses. Over the years, the DIAC — a 501(c)(3) social organization — has donated more than $650,000 from parade proceeds to scholarships for local high school students and to other charities and organizations.

The DIAC is especially proud to have

Pipe and drum bands will bring the sounds of Ireland to the streets of Ocean City, along with high school marching bands and festively decorated floats sponsored by local businesses, groups and organizations.

Leading the parade will be Greg Shockley, owner of Shenanigans Irish Pub, as this year’s grand marshal. He has been one of the DIAC’s biggest supporters from its beginnings, and Shenanigans has been a parade sponsor for many years.

The procession begins at noon on Coastal Highway at 57th Street and marches south to the 45th Street Shopping Center, where the viewing bleachers and judges’ stand will be located. Trophies will be awarded for

best marching band, best commercial float, best non-commercial float, best motorized unit, best adult marching unit, best youth marching unit, special committee award, judges’ choice award and best overall entry in the parade.

In addition to the celebration on the parade route, the 45th Street Shopping Center will be transformed into a spirited festival complete with live Irish music with Pat O’Brennan, Barry D. and Brian K., along with Irish dancers, Irish apparel, baskets of cheer, souvenirs and a variety of food and beer. Spectators can enjoy the free-admission festival beginning at 10 a.m. and running until 4 p.m.

To avoid traffic delays, spectators are urged to arrive before 10:30 a.m. and to view the parade from 57th Street south to 45th Street.

The DIAC was founded in 1980, and its first membership drive resulted in 75 members. Today, there are close to 300 members. The club is open to anyone who is Irish, of Irish descent or just likes things Irish.

There is no rain date for the parade or festival. For more information, visit www.delmarvairish.org or contact Buck Mann at 410-289-6156.

opened the doors of his famous Ocean City pub, Shenanigan’s, on Fourth Street in 1988. For nearly 40 years, Greg has helped thousands celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and Ocean City’s famous parade every March. Shockley is on the boards of the Boardwalk Development Association, the Ocean City Development Corporation, the Maryland Tourism Board and the TidalHealth system. Greg supports initiatives that invest in young people, the economy, and the future of the next generation of not only the Irish but the entire community.

Grand marshal Shockley is an Ocean City native and has roots in supporting Irish culture since he

Outside of work and community activities, Shockley is usually with his wife Susie, their sons Brody and Noah, and his Irish four-legged furry daughter, Mila.

Berlin set to offer ‘mini makers’ at market

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(March 6, 2026) Kids of all ages will be allowed to participate in the Berlin Farmers Market this spring and summer via the town’s new project, The Berlin Mini Makers Market.

Every second Sunday from May through October, during the Berlin Farmers Market, kids aged 6 to 18 can sell their own fresh products. The participants can set up booths as individuals, pairs, or small teams and offer shoppers homemade or handcrafted items such as art, crafts, and baked goods. The Worcester

County Health Department must approve food items as shelf-stable. Homegrown produce, flowers, plants, or herbs grown by the kids are also permitted.

Resale items, pre-packaged commercial products, or items made primarily by adults will not be allowed.

A Facebook post by the Town of Berlin Main Streets & Arts and Entertainment District said, “Adult help is fine for setup and safety, but the kids must create and sell the product.”

Those interested in participating should email berlinmainstreet@gmail. com with what the student will be grow-

ing, creating, or cultivating.

Berlin Economic and Community Development Director Ivy Wells said program leaders have had nearly 20 children sign up, and that they’re still reviewing applications.

She added that her team will determine the number of spots to be given to the “Mini Makers” based on available space in the market.

“The Mini Makers will bring a fresh layer of creativity to the market,” Wells said.

Wells noted the new market addition was inspired by her witnessing kids set-

ting up tables in front of their parents' booths. She added she was also getting inquiries from adults, asking whether their children could have stands of their own.

“That really sparked the idea,” she said. “I wanted to create something that teaches kids what it’s actually like to run a small business. Whether you’re a farmer growing products or a young entrepreneur creating something of your own, there’s much more involved than just making the item. There’s pricing, presentation, customer service, and responsibility. I wanted them to understand the business side of it.”

Best Beats On The Beach

Who’s Where When

BUXY’S SALTY DOG & DRY DOCK 28

410-289-BUXY

28th Street & Coastal Highway

Monday, March 9: DJ Deogee Thursday, March 12: Full Circle

CAPTAIN’S TABLE

410-289-7192

15th & Boardwalk In The Courtyard Marriott Fridays & Saturdays: Phil Perdue

COINS PUB

410-289-3100

28th Street Plaza On Coastal Highway Friday, March 6: Colossal Fosssil Saturday, March 7: Lennon LaRicci & The Leftovers

FAGER’S ISLAND

410-524-5500

60th Street In The Bay Friday, March 6: Dixon Hall & DJ Groove

Saturday, March 7: No Go Romeo & DJ RobCee

Sunday, March 8: Trade Show After Party w/ Full Circle

Monday, March 9: Bryan Clark

GREENE TURTLE WEST

410-213-1500

Route 611, West OC

Wednesdays: Bingo w/ Blake

HARBORSIDE

410-213-1846

South Harbor Road, West End OC

Friday, March 6: DJ Billy T

Saturday, March 7: The Dunehounds & DJ Bigler

Buxy’s

FULL CIRCLE

Fager’s Island: Sunday, March 8

TREVOR YOUNG OF SOJA & ALGORHYTHM

Pickles Pub: Saturday, March 7

THE DUNEHOUNDS

Harborside: Saturday, March 7

CHERRY CRUSH BAND

Seacrets: Saturday, March 7

SONIC OCM

Purple Moose: Thursday, March 12

OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS

Harborside: Sunday, March 8

NO GO ROMEO

Fager’s Island: Saturday, March 7

Who’s Where When

Sunday, March 8:

Opposite Directions

Thursdays: Dust N Bones

PICKLES PUB

410-289-4891

8th Street & Philadelphia Avenue

Fridays: Beats By DeoGee

Saturday, March 7:

Trevor Young of SOJA, Feel Free & Cultivated (Ticket Event)

Mondays: Karaoke w/ Wood

Sunday, March 8:

Trade Show After Party w/ The DeVaney Brothers of Higher Education & DJ Rampage

Tuesdays: Beats By Wax

Thursdays: Beats By Connair

PURPLE MOOSE SALOON

410-289-6953

Between Caroline & Talbot Streets On The Boards

Thursday, March 12:

Sonic OCM & DJ Mary Jane

SEACRETS

410-524-4900

49th Street & Coastal Highway

Friday, March 6: Faith Noel, Karaoke Competition Finals, DJ E-State, DJ Davie & The Benderz

Saturday,March 7:

The Permilla Project, DJ Connair, DJ J-Spin & Cherry Crush Band

Thursday, March 12:

Carley Twigg & DJ J-Spin

Annual OC film festival runs through Sunday

(March 6, 2026) There is still time to get your passes for the 10th Annual Ocean City Film Festival, a production of the Art League of Ocean City, coming to resort theaters and venues this weekend. Major sponsors for the festival include the Town of Ocean City and the State of Maryland Film Office.

Over the four-day event, which began Thursday, the festival will screen more than 100 independent films, including both locally made and internationally produced works, ranging from short films to feature-length movies. The entire Film Festival program for 2026 is available to view at OCMDFilmFestival.com, where passes are available for purchase.

“The entire festival is a great opportunity for film lovers to watch neverbefore-seen films, including locally created movies, and mingle with the

filmmakers and film crews. We invite you to come inside our warm theaters and out of the chilly weather to enjoy the creativity of film and celebrate with your neighbors,” the Executive Director of the Art League said.

"When we launched the film festival 10 years ago, we just hoped people would show up and enjoy the movies as much as we do," said Film Festival Director William "BL" Strang-Moya."

"It has become this big celebration that filmmakers from all over the world attend, and where locals see themselves on screen," Strang-Moya continued.

The 10th year of the festival will showcase independent films in multiple genres at iconic Ocean City venues, including Flagship Cinemas in West Ocean City, Gold Coast Theaters in Ocean City, Morley Hall at Seacrets,

Cambria Hotel, and Dough Roller 41st St.. The Cambria Hotel, Spain Wine Bar, and Fager's Island will host conversations and after-parties. The closing awards celebration on Sunday, March 8th, at Seacrets honoring outstanding films and creators at our awards ceremony and wrap party including a free buffet and cash bar.

Short films are packaged into showcases so viewers can attend according to their preferences. The showcases include Animals Collectively; Coming to America; Distant Futures; Environmental Stewardship; For the Whole Famdamnily; Hard at Work; Jaws ’n Claws; Loss; Originals Only; Passion Projects; Perseverance; Remember When; Seaside Traditions; Maryland High School Showcase; The World We Know; Wonder and Whimsy; and Local Spotlight: Un-

scene Productions.

The Local Spotlight is extremely exciting. It features all things Ocean City with Unscene Productions films such as 50 Years of Fager’s, Before the Settlers, Museum of Ocean City, and The Making of the OC Rock and Ride.

In addition, the festival will screen 15 films of feature length.

Information about the festival, including a list of films, parties, and events is available at OCMdFilmFestival.com.

The films have not been rated, and some feature adult content. Viewer discretion is advised.

Worcester Prep earns Platinum Status once again

(March 6, 2026) Worcester Preparatory School announced that it has earned Platinum Status on the College Board Advanced Placement (AP) Honor Roll for the second consecutive year.

The AP Honor Roll recognizes schools across four levels of distinction — Bronze, Silver, Gold, and the highest level, Platinum, based on student access to and success in Advanced Placement coursework and exams.

For the 2024–2025 school year, nearly 16,000 schools nationwide were eligible for the AP Honor Roll. Approximately 5,700 schools earned recognition, and only 8% achieved Platinum Status.

Worcester Preparatory School is the only school in Worcester County, and one of just two schools on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, to earn Platinum distinction. Notably, Worcester Prep is the only school on the Eastern Shore to achieve this recognition two years in a row.

To qualify for Platinum Status, schools must meet the following criteria:

At least 80% of the graduating class must take at least one AP Exam during high school.

At least 50% of the graduating class must earn a score of 3 or higher on at least one AP Exam.

At least 15% of the graduating class must take five or more AP Exams, including at least one exam taken in 9th or 10th grade.

Head of School Dr. Betsy Hornung shared her pride in the accomplishment.

“I’m unbelievably proud of our students, faculty, staff, and supportive families for the combined effort, commitment, and dedication that contributed to this honor,” said Hornung. “This recognition reflects not only academic excellence, but also the culture of high expectations and meaningful support that defines Worcester Prep.”

New exhibits open First Friday in OC at center for arts

(March 6, 2026) First Friday celebrates six new art shows in the galleries of the Ocean City Center for the Arts, 502 94th St. bayside, home of the Art League of Ocean City. The opening reception is free and open to the public. Coins Pub and Papi’s Tacos are sponsoring complimentary reception hors d’oeuvres. Beverages are sponsored by PKS investments.

Thaler Gallery’s March exhibition pairs photographer John Carter and Robert Sullivan, highlighting how light, time, and place shape perception. The works invite exploration beyond the obvious, emphasizing that success lies in perception, while light transforms subjects into emotionally resonant stories.

The Sisson Galleria will feature a group art show titled “In Black & White,” showcasing works in all media in March. The theme honors classic cinema, celebrating the drama, contrast, and timeless artistry of monochrome compositions, as well as the 10th Annual Ocean City Film Festival.

The Shirley Hall Youth Art Show is featured in Studio E in March. Celebrate National Youth Art Month with an exhibition featuring original 2D artwork by local middle and high school students. This year’s show will be on display all month long, March 6-28, 2026.

The Schwab Spotlight Gallery in March features Lior Laskowski, a multidisciplinary artist, writer, and spiritual companion whose work blends personal exploration with a deep reverence for interconnectedness. Displaying an assortment of analog paper collages.

Etta Stewart, multidisciplinary artist joins the Artisan Showcase in March. Her work uses bits and pieces of fabric and beads to create art. Explore accessories like fabric bags and bracelets.

The Burbage Staircase Gallery features 10 years of Ocean City Film Festival posters, designed and illustrated by artist Ian Postley, available for purchase. Also on display are film posters from the 100 movies being screened at the 10th season of the Film Festival, providing a visual preview of the upcoming films. The festival returns to the resort March 5-8, 2026. Also, on display for the month of March will be the finished Community weaving project. This massive tapestry mounted to a circular frame, was created by over 1,000 diverse people under the direction of fiber artist Beth Deeley. The whimsical piece literally wove together the fabric of the community and is the subject of a documentary film that will be shown at the Ocean City Film Festival. Incorporating a seashore theme, the tapestry stands as a testament to the power of art to bring together community.

The Art League’s satellite galleries are open through March 29. Carol Bell exhibits her photographs in the lobby of the Princess Royale Hotel at 9110 Coastal Hwy. Kristin Mallery Hooks of “Hearts Happen” is the artist-in-residence at the Coffee Beanery at 94th Street.

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CHAMBER AWARDS CELEBRATION

OC’s therapy dog benefit attracts over 400

(March 6, 2026) The Ocean City Helping Heroes “Max & Rowan” Community Fundraiser proved to be an overwhelming success, surpassing all expectations and demonstrating once again how strongly this community supports its first responders.

Originally planned with a goal of selling 200 tickets, the event more than doubled that number — welcoming 424 attendees for an evening dedicated to supporting the Ocean City Fire Department Therapy Dog Program and first responder wellness initiatives.

The fundraiser benefits Ocean City

Helping Heroes, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides financial support to firefighters, paramedics, police officers, dispatchers, fire marshals, and their families during times of injury, illness, or hardship, while also funding the department’s Therapy Dog Program.

“Our goal was to sell 200 tickets, and to see that number grow to 424 is simply incredible,” said Ryan Whittington, who oversees the Ocean City Fire Department Therapy Dog Program. “It just goes to show that this community truly believes in this purpose. They understand that supporting first responder

wellness and mental health matters. Ocean City always shows up.”

A special highlight of the evening was a contribution from Worcester Preparatory School student Tobi Blaska, who drew a portrait of Max and Rowan. The artwork was featured in the silent auction and was purchased by Sid and Phyllis Bresler, further demonstrating the connection between local youth, the therapy dogs, and the families who support this mission.

The evening also featured live entertainment by Blake Haley and Zander Jett, an Ocean City native and current songwriter in Nashville.

Since the launch of the Therapy Dog Program, Max and Rowan have had contact with thousands of individuals throughout the community — including first responders, city employees, and students in local schools. The program has expanded beyond the firehouse, becoming a community-wide resource focused on stress reduction, crisis response, and emotional support.

Funds raised from the event will directly support veterinary care, training, equipment, and additional wellness initiatives designed to strengthen those who serve Ocean City every day.

Calendar

Fri., March 6

10TH ANNUAL OCEAN CITY FILM FESTIVAL

Showcasing new films at venues throughout the Ocean City area. Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/10th-annual-ocean-city-film-festival-tickets1816458709899?aff=oddtdtcreator. ocmdfilmfestival.com. Art League of Ocean City, 410-524-9433

PLAY TIME

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Join in for imaginative play and social interaction. For ages 0-5 years. 410-2084014, worcesterlibrary.org

OC MAHJONG CLUB

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

CURRENTLY READING BOOK CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Drop into this club to discuss what you are currently reading and share it with the group. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

MOVIE MATINEE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Come catch a movie you may have missed in the theaters. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

FISH FRY

Remson Church, 4249 Sheephouse Road, Pocomoke City, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Cost is $12 and includes flounder, Mac and cheese, green beans, corn bread and dessert. Carry out or eat in.

PIZZA AND PAINT NIGHT FOR TEENS

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 6 p.m. Join in for pizza and painting on canvas. For ages 12-18 years. Registration is necessary: 410-957-0878. worcesterlibrary.org

DEADLINE TO COMMIT FOR STUDENT ART SHOW

Art Collective at The Factory, 16 S. Main St., Suite D, Berlin, 6 p.m. Submit works for the 2nd Friday Gallery Art Show featuring Student Art. All ages welcome. Email: artcollectiveatthefactory@gmail.com by 6 p.m. on March 6 to commit. Reception held March 13, 5-8 p.m.

KIGHTS OF COLUMBUS BINGO

Fridays - Knights of Columbus, 9901 Coastal Highway, behind St. Luke’s Church. Doors open at 5 p.m., bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. Light snacks available before bingo and at intermission. 410524-7994

Sat., March 7

10TH ANNUAL OCEAN CITY FILM FESTIVAL

Showcasing new films at venues throughout the Ocean City area. Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/10th-annual-ocean-city-film-festival-tickets1816458709899?aff=oddtdtcreator. ocmdfilmfestival.com. Art League of Ocean City, 410-524-9433

DOLLY PARTON EXPERIENCE COCKTAIL PARTY

Ocean Pines Yacht Club, 1 Mumfords Landing Road, 4-7 p.m. Enjoy Dolly Parton inspired cocktails/mocktails, dazzling performances and interactive fun. Costumes encouraged. Tickets: https://www.cupofambition.live/media. 267-994-1056

KIWANIS PANCAKE DAY

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 8-11 a.m. Tickets cost $10 for adults; children 9 years and younger eat free. Tickets available at the door or from Kiwanis members. Proceeds benefit the children of Worcester County.

WALK WITH A DOC

Unity Square, 100 Circle Ave., Salisbury, 10-11 a.m. Join a practitioner for a health discussion and then enjoy a walk for the remainder of the hour. Held the first Saturday of each month. 410-9122890, bobbi.mcdonald@tidalhealth.org

SATURDAY WRITERS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10 a.m. Novice and established writers gather to share their writing projects. Structure includes critiques and appreciation, market leads and writing exercises. Drop-ins welcome. 410-641-0650

LEPRECHAUN TRAPS

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m. Build a trap that can catch a leprechaun. For ages 6-11 years. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

OCEAN PINES FARMERS & ARTISANS

MARKET

Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 9 a.m. to noon. 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., March 8

10TH ANNUAL OCEAN CITY FILM FESTIVAL Showcasing new films at venues throughout the Ocean City area. Tickets:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/10th-annual-ocean-city-film-festival-tickets1816458709899?aff=oddtdtcreator. ocmdfilmfestival.com. Art League of Ocean City, 410-524-9433

FRIED CHICKEN CARRYOUT

Bishopville Volunteer Fire Department, 10709 Bishopville Road, 1-4 p.m. 1/2 chicken (leg, thigh, breast, wing), ham, string beans, coleslaw slaw, potato salad, roll and dessert. Cost is $20. Baked goods available. Preorder: 443-8804944.

SEWING FOR A CAUSE

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

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

Mon., March 9

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, worcesterlibrary.org

STORY TIME: HIPPOS

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

WRITING FOR WELLNESS

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:30 p.m. Writing about stressful experiences like illness may boost health and psychological well-being. The group uses exercises to stimulate creative expression. 410208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP

Mac Inc Area Agency On Aging, 909 Progress Circle, Suite 100, Salisbury, 6-7 p.m. Held the second Monday of each month from January to May. 410-5437061

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

Mondays - Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 5-6:30 p.m. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a weekly support and educational group promoting weight loss and living a healthy lifestyle. Rose Campion, 410-641-0157

BRIDGE

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

DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS

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

OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS

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

Tues., March 10

ICD (IMPLANTABLE CARDIOVERTER DEVICE) SUPPORT GROUP

TidalHealth Adult Fitness, Salisbury, 800 S. Salisbury Blvd., Suite. D, 9-10 a.m. Held the second Tuesday of each month. 410-543-7026, susan.colliton@tidalhealth.org

STORY TIME

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

MUSIC AND MOVEMENT

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

OC KNITTING GROUP

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

BABY TIME

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Songs, rhymes and stories. Stay after to socialize with other families. For ages 0-2 years. 410-632-5622, worcesterlibrary.org

ADVANCE CARE PLANNING SESSION

To join the webinar, 1 p.m.: https://tidalhealth.webex.com/wbxmjs/ joinservice/sites/tidalhealth/meeting/d ownload/bd773f677932425da99b7704c 7afc239?MTID=ma62eb0ffd8f8cd1deb0 19210b37d26f3.

GETTING READY FOR SPRING!

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Learn how to grow a healthy lawn, care for shrubs and trees, annual and perennial flowers and vegetables. Presented by Master Gardener Ginny Rosenkranz. 410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org

BOOK CLUB @ TIDES AND VINE: ‘THE WAGER’ BY DAVID GRANN Tides & Vine, 106 W. Green St., Snow

Hill, 6 p.m. Join in for an evening of books and wine. Stop by the Snow Hill Library to pick up your book. Must be at least 21 years of age. 410-632-5622

GRIEF VIRTUAL SUPPORT GROUP

To join the meeting, 6:30-7:30 p.m.: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/Mf9LZPTXSNuuCmHOW3WTrA# /registration. Info: 410-629-6848, lora.pangratz@tidalhealth.org. 410-6296848

ATLANTIC COAST SPORTFISHING ASSOCIATION MEETING

American Legion Synepuxent Post 166, 2308 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 7 p.m. Dinner and drinks sold after 6:15 p.m. Captain Shannon Ehinger will talk about how to prepare your gear for the season. Dave Messick will be on hand to give tips on taking fishing photos. All welcome.

CROSS FARMS POP-UP FARMERS MARKET

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

BEACH HEROES-OC

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

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY

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

OC KNITTING CLUB

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

ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE

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

ZUMBA TONING TUESDAYS

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

WEIGHT MANAGEMENT AND WELLNESS GROUP

Tuesdays - Holy Trinity Cathedral,

11021 Worcester Highway, 2-2:45 p.m.

Use the weight loss program/app/plan of your choice. Free and open to everyone. 410-641-4882, www.htcanglican.org/activities.

Wed., March 11

AARP MEETING

Ocean City 50plus Center, 104 41st St., 10 a.m. Social and refreshments begin at 9:30 a.m. The guest speaker will discuss senior care options. Upcoming travel opportunities and more provided. New members welcome. Bob McCluskey, 410-250-0980.

VICTORIAN GAMES

Snow Hill 50plus Center, 4767 Snow Hill Road, 11 a.m. Victorian games. 410632-5622, 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, worcesterlibrary.org

PUZZLE SWAP

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

TWO BOYS TRADED: TRUE STORY OF NAMONTACK AND WILL SAVAGE OF JAMESTOWN

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 2 p.m. Learn the story of English and Native American boys who become interpreters, negotiators, spies and diplomats. Colonial craft included, make clay marbles. For ages 611 years. 410-957-0878

FAMILY UPCYCLE CRAFT NIGHT

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 4 p.m.

An eco-friendly craft night repurposing old T-shirts and more. Supplies provided, but feel free to bring your own items. For families. 410-524-1818

DIABETES SELF-MANAGEMENT CLASS

Held weekly on Wednesday via virtual meeting, 6-8 p.m. Provider referral, patient pre-assessment, and registration are required. Insurance may cover all or part of the cost. Register: 410-543-7061.

PAJAMA STORY TIME

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 6:30 p.m. Wear your pajamas and bring our favorite stuffie to snuggle while enjoying stories and songs to wind down to bedtime. For ages 0-5 years. 410-641-0650, worcesterlibrary.org

KIWANIS CLUB MEETING

Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m.

Doors open at 7:30 a.m. Last Wednesday of the month meetings are offsite and information can be found on the website and Facebook. www.kiwanisofopoc.org.

CASH BINGO

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

Thurs., March 12

MERRY MAKERS: BUTTON BRACELETS

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Use buttons and waxed twine to create beautiful, one-of-a-kind bracelets. Registration required: 410-208-4014. worcesterlibrary.org

WOMEN’;S RIGHTS AND THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Held via Zoom, this lecture, led by University of Maryland historian Richard Bell, explores the struggle to define white women’s place in politics, voting and public leadership. 410-641-0650

BINGO

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Play a lively game of Bingo and win fun prizes. 410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org

BEE KEEPING IN THE COLONIAL ERA

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 2 p.m. Learn how honey bees made the trip to the new world, how their honey and wax were harvested and how bees have learned how to adapt since their arrival in 1622. Registration required: 410-957-0878.

ALZHEIMER’S CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP

John H. “Jack” Burbage, Jr. Regional Cancer Care Center, 9707 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3-4 p.m. Hosted in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association. Held the second Thursday of each month. 410-641-2626, nicole.fry@tidalhealth.org

WOMEN SUPPORTING WOMEN’S 24TH ANNUAL PINK RIBBON BINGO

Willards Lions Community Center, Hearn Street, 4:30-9 p.m. Tickets $35. Bingo fundraiser for Women Supporting Women. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Games start at 6 p.m. Tickets: 410-548-7880, https://womensupportingwomen.harnessgiving.org/events/3504. Must be at least 18 years.

EARLY READERS BOOK CLUB - ‘FOX HAS A PROBLEM’

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4:30 p.m. Enjoy a shared reading experience as a group. Play games or do crafts that relate to the story that was read. Best for

ages 6-8 years. 410-641-0650

DRY PANTRY

Thursdays - St. Paul United Methodist Church, 405 Flower Street, Berlin, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. For those in need of resources such as paper products, laundry products, baby items, and personal care items. Limits apply. 410-641-0270

ONGOING EVENTS

MARIO SCAVENGER HUNT

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, March 9-27. Can you find Mario and his friends and solve the riddle? Prizes awarded from the treasure box. For families. 410-2084014

HISTORY-TO-GO

Snow Hill library, 307 N. Washington St., throughout March. Pick up a History-to-Go kit that is all about Colonial gardening. Includes info sheets, recommended activities, supplies and more. Can be picked up at the Snow Hill Branch. 410-632-3495

OC READS: ‘THE VIEW FROM LAKE COMO’ BY ADRIANA TRIGIANI

Ocean City library, 10003 Coastal Highway. Pick up a copy of this month’s read. Come in by March 30 to share your impressions and enter into a drawing to win free books. 410-524-1818

COMMUNITY JOURNAL: TELL HER STORY

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., March 2-31. Use the provided journal pages, story sheets and drawing pages to tell the story about a woman who inspires you. For families. 410-957-0878

HER WORDS, HER WORLD

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, March 2-17. Drop in and pick up a poster to fill out about a famous woman and return it to the library by March 17 to be put on display. Poster swill be voted on and the winner will receive a prize. For ages 6-11 years and 12-18 years. 410-208-4014

TEEN TIME: EGG DECORATING

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, March 2-31, 3:30 p.m. Drop in and design an egg. For ages 12-18 years. 410-208-4014

Crossword answers from page 60

rise

time building maintenance techs.

Great Benefit plan/paid time off!

Apply online at troon.com/careers - company location Sea Colony Assoc East

Email bethann.steele@seacolony.com or call 302-541-8831 for an interview

The Town of Ocean City is Hiring

Seasonal Bus Drivers for Summer 2026

Seasonal Rate: 21.37/hour

Limited space for applicants requiring CDL training is available! Apply at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/oceancitymd or City Hall, 301 Baltimore Ave., Ocean City, MD 21842

St. Peter’s Lutheran Church of Ocean City is looking for a part-time Sexton 20 hours per week at $18 per hour. Duties include weekly cleaning of church interior, setting up rooms for meetings, cleaning of property grounds to include maintaining landscaping. Candidates must have good communication skills, provide their own transportation and pass criminal background check. Interested candidates, mail resumé along with references to St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 10301 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, Maryland 21824, Attn. Council President PGN Crab House 29th Street & Coastal Hwy, Now Hiring for • Waitstaff

• Kitchen Help Apply within in person after 11:00 am.

In Need Of FULL/PT HOME CARE

OCEAN PINES

Assistance in ADL and light housekeeping. 410-208-6513, please call after 6 p.m.

RENTALS

YR APT FOR RENT WEST OC 3BR, 1BA, BEAUTIFUL! All new appl’s., incl. W/D. Pets considered. 410-390-1374

YR OCEAN PINES

Available Immediately! South Gate Cul de Sac

Recently renovated Unfurnished 4BR, 2BA

Screened in porch, Central HVAC No smoking/pets

$2,500 per mo. + util’s & sec. dep. 410-404-8851

YEARLY RENTAL 319 Robin Drive

YR OCEAN PINES

Available Immediately! 3BR, 2BA Central HVAC All Appliances Incl. No Pets.

$2,300 per month + $2,300 sec. dep. 410-404-8851

Seeking Year-Round Rentals! Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555.

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT:

Looking for space, comfort and great views? Spacious, climate-controlled office available, with use of conference room and reception area, in a modern, well-maintained building in prime Ocean City location. Call 410-524-3440 for appointment. FOR LEASE Commercial Space 816 sq. ft. Village of Fenwick, Fenwick Island, DE. Call Melissa, 410-641-1101 or Email Melissa@bergeycpa.com

Commercial Space for Lease ONLY 1 UNIT LEFT!

2-3 Units available, can be divided or joined. Approx. 1000 sq. ft. Busy major road in Town of Berlin. Call 443-880-8885 for more information.

Furniture Applications available at store - 1300 Coastal Hwy. 12 noon to 5 pm Fenwick Island, DE | 877-323-TEAK info@windsorteakfurniture.com HANDYMAN 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

Available Immediately 2BR, 1BA, Unfurnished. Dog friendly, ground floor. Ideal 2 mature adults w/strong work history. $2,000/mo. + electric. Call/text 703-819-7400

REAL ESTATE

MINUTES TO THE BEACH!

Built in 2024

This beautiful 2BR, 2BA Mobile Home is right next to the County Boat Ramp. $120,000. Financing avail. to qualified buyers. Lot Rent $700/mo. Pays for water/sewer/trash/taxes. Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555

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

SERVICES Need your car cleaned in Ocean City? Evans

DONATIONS

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

WANT TO BUY

WANT TO BUY

I BUY ALBUMS!

410-430-5349

FOR SALE MISC./OTHER

OFFICE FURNITURE FOR SALE

(2) L-shaped secretarial desks, (1) reg. desk, (1) receptionists desk, legal file cabinets, conference table w/6 leather chairs. Call for pricing 410-250-1111.

Only the troubles, When a whoopin’ comes my way, Does prayer come easy! Must I be

To

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Hofmeister, Robinson & DiPietro

11350 McCormick Road, Executive Plaza II, Suite 601 Hunt Valley, Maryland 21031

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES’ SALE OF VALUABLE FEE SIMPLE DWELLING

309 Purnell Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from CABM Contractors LLC, dated March 1, 2024, and recorded in Liber 8719, folio 112, among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, 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, 1 West Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863, Courthouse Door, on

Monday, March 23, 2026 AT 11:00AM

All that 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 believed to be improved by a substantially complete single family home. The property address is 309 Purnell Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863.

Said property is in fee simple and is sold in an “as is condition” and subject to all covenants, conditions, liens, restrictions, easements, rightsof-way as may affect same, if any, and with no warranty of any kind.

Terms of Sale: A deposit of $15,000.00 will be required of the purchaser, other than the Holder of the Note or its assigns, at the time of sale, such deposit to be in cash or certified check, or other form acceptable to the Substitute Trustees, in their sole discretion. Balance of the purchase price is to be paid in cash within ten (10) days of the final ratification of sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County. If payment of the balance does not take place within ten (10) days of ratification, the deposit may be forfeited or property may be resold at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser. The defaulting purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds or profits resulting from any resale of the property. Interest to be paid on unpaid purchase money at the rate pursuant to the deed of trust note from date of sale to date funds are received in the office of the Substitute Trustees in the event the property is purchased by someone rather than the note holder.

In the event settlement is delayed for any reason , including, but not limited to, exceptions to the sale, bankruptcy filings by interested parties, or court administration of the foreclosure, there shall be no abatement of interest. Taxes, ground rent, water, condominium fees and/or

homeowner association dues, all public charges, 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 date of sale and assumed thereafter by the purchaser. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes and settlement expenses shall be borne by the purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. Purchaser assumes the risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale forward. If the Substitute Trustees are unable to convey good and marketable title, the purchaser’s sole remedy in law or equity shall be limited to the refund of the deposit. Upon refund of the deposit, this sale shall be void and of no effect, and the purchaser shall have no further claims against the Substitute Trustees.

NOTE: The information contained herein was obtained from sources deemed to be reliable, but is offered for informational purposes only. Neither the auctioneer, the beneficiary of the Deed of Trust, the Substitute Trustees nor their agents or attorneys make any representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy of information.

PROSPECTIVE PURCHASERS ARE URGED TO PERFORM THEIR OWN DUE DILIGENCE WITH RESPECT TO THE PROPERTY PRIOR TO THE FORECLOSURE AUCTION. For additional information, please contact the Substitute Trustees.

Ralph J. DiPietro and Scott R. Robinson, Substitute Trustees Tidewater Auctions, LLC 410-825-2900 www.tidewaterauctions.com

OCD-3/5/3t

Hofmeister, Robinson & DiPietro 11350 McCormick Road, Executive Plaza II, Suite 601 Hunt Valley, Maryland 21031

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES’ SALE OF VALUABLE FEE SIMPLE DWELLING

14 Second Street, Pocomoke, MD 21851,

a.k.a. 14 2nd Street, Pocomoke City, MD 21851

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Purchase Money Deed of Trust from Arnold W. Jenkins, Sr., dated November 4, 2005, and recorded in Liber 4577, folio 521, among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, 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, 1 West Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863, Courthouse Door, on

Monday, March 16, 2026 AT 11:00 AM

All that lot of ground and the improvements thereon SITUATED IN Worcester County, Maryland and more fully described in the aforesaid Purchase Money Deed of Trust.

The property is believed to be improved by a detached three-story single-family residential dwelling currently in use as a multi-family residential dwelling, and believed to contain approximately 3,937 +/square feet of above grade living space, and a covered front porch. The property address is 14 Second Street, Pocomoke, MD 21851, a.k.a. 14 2nd Street, Pocomoke City, MD 21851.

Said property is in fee simple and is sold in an “as is condition” and subject to all covenants, conditions, liens, restrictions, easements, rightsof-way as may affect same, if any, and with no warranty of any kind.

Terms of Sale: A deposit of $20,000.00 will be required of the purchaser, other than the Holder of the Note or its assigns, at the time of sale, such deposit to be in cash or certified check, or other form acceptable to the Substitute Trustees, in their sole discretion. Balance of the purchase price is to be paid in cash within ten (10) days of the final ratification of sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County. If payment of the balance does not take place within ten (10) days of ratification, the deposit may be forfeited or property may be resold at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser. The defaulting purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds or profits resulting from any resale of the property. Interest to be paid on unpaid purchase money at the rate pursuant to the deed of trust note from date of sale to date funds are received in the office of the Substitute Trustees in the event the property is purchased by someone rather than the note holder.

In the event settlement is delayed for any reason , including, but not limited to, exceptions to the sale, bankruptcy filings by interested parties, or court administration of the foreclosure, there shall be no abatement of interest. Taxes, ground rent, water, condominium fees and/or homeowner association dues, all public charges, 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 date of sale and assumed thereafter by the purchaser. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes and settlement expenses shall be borne by the purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. Purchaser assumes the risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale forward. If the Substitute Trustees are unable to convey good and marketable title, the purchaser’s sole remedy in law or equity shall be limited to the refund of the deposit. Upon refund of the deposit, this sale shall be void and of no effect, and the purchaser shall have no further claims against the Substitute Trustees.

NOTE: The information contained herein was obtained from sources deemed to be reliable, but is

offered for informational purposes only. Neither the auctioneer, the beneficiary of the Deed of Trust, the Substitute Trustees nor their agents or attorneys make any representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy of information.

PROSPECTIVE PURCHASERS ARE URGED TO PERFORM THEIR OWN DUE DILIGENCE WITH RESPECT TO THE PROPERTY PRIOR TO THE FORECLOSURE AUCTION. For additional information, please contact the SubstituteTrustees.

Ralph J. DiPietro and Scott R. Robinson, Substitute Trustees Tidewater Auctions, LLC 410-825-2900

www.tidewaterauctions.com

OCD-2/26/3t

TRUSTEE’S SALE OF CONDOMINIUM UNIT

In accordance with the order in Case no. C-23-CV-25-000232 in the Circuit Court for Worcester County, the Trustee named below will sell at public auction to the highest bidder on Monday, March 9, 2026, at 3:30 p.m., at the front door of Hidden Harbour III Condominium Unit No. 337, Building K, 12301 Jamaica Avenue, Ocean City, MD, all that property designated as Hidden Harbour III Condominium Unit No. 337, together with an undivided percentage interest in the common elements, as established pursuant to a Condominium Master Deed and ByLaws, as amended, dated May 17, 1988, and recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland in Book No. 1436, Page 155, 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. 114, Folio 71, et. seq., as further described in a deed recorded at Book 8136, Page 247, 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-2/19/3t

McCabe, Weisberg & Conway, LLC

312 Marshall Avenue, Suite 800 Laurel, MD 20707 www.mwc-law.com

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES’ SALE OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY

209 MAPLE AVENUE BERLIN, MD 21811

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from Bruce T. Baldwin, Sr. and Helen R. Baldwin, dated June 19, 1997 and recorded in Liber 2402, folio 147 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

MARCH 17, 2026 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 $5,000 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 7.5% 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 service 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 #24-601051).

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

OCD-2/26/3t

McCabe, Weisberg & Conway, LLC

312 Marshall Avenue, Suite 800 Laurel, MD 20707 www.mwc-law.com

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES’

SALE

OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY

407 MAPLE STREET

POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from Ronald E. Cox, dated May 16, 2014 and recorded in Liber 6387, folio 180 among the Land Records of Worces-

ter 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 MARCH 10, 2026 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 $9,000 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 service 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 settle-

ment 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 #16-605854).

Laura H. G. O'Sullivan,

et al., Substitute Trustees

OCD-2/19/3t

Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland

PROPOSAL SOLICITATION

P03-26 – 94th Street Court Fencing Installation

The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the 94th Street Court Fencing Installation and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.

Proposal Documents for the 94th Street Court Fencing Installation may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Leonard at dleonard@oceancitymd.gov, or by calling (410) 723-6643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their Proposals. The Town is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any third-party service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents. A Pre-Proposal Meeting will be

held on TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 17TH, 2026 AT 10:00AM EST, AT THE LITTLE SALISBURY PARK, 94TH STREET, BAYSIDE, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842. The Last Day for Questions will be on MONDAY, MARCH 2ND, 2026, AT 4:00PM EST. Addendum will be posted by close of business on TUESDAY, MARCH 3RD, 2026.

Sealed Proposal Documents are due no later than THURSDAY, MARCH 12TH, 2026, BY 4:00PM EST. Proposal submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the PROCUREMENT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, ON FRIDAY, MARCH 13TH, 2026, AT 9:00AM EST. Proposals are to be submitted to the Procurement Office located at 214 65th Street, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (P03-26 – 94th Street Court Fencing Installation) must be noted on the outside of the package.

Late Proposal Documents will not be accepted.

Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation.

Matt Perry Procurement Manager Town of Ocean City, Maryland OCD-2/12/5t

MAYOR & COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL, MARYLAND, NOTICE OF APPROVED CHARTER AMENDMENT RESOLUTION 2025-08

Re: Annexation

Notice is hereby given by the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill that Charter Resolution 2025-08, was adopted on February 10, 2025 after holding a public hearing on January 20, 2025. A fair summary of the resolution is as follows: Charter Amendment Resolution 2025-08 ANNEXED CERTAIN LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN AND amended THE TOWN OF SNOW HILL CHARTER SECTION 3 ENTITLED “DESCRIPTION OF CORPORATE BOUNDARIES” BY ADDING SAID CERTAIN LANDS TO THE CORPORATE BOUNDARIES OF THE TOWN OF SNOW HILL, specifically the Town of Snow Hill’s water well located on Coulbourne Lane, Tax Map 63, Parcel 177; the Snow Hill Middle School and Cedar Chapel School (Tax Map 201, Parcel 1708); Snow Hill Elementary School (Tax Map 63, Parcel 144); 410 Coulbourne Lane (Tax Map 201, Parcel 1711, Part of Lot 1, approximately .027 acres) to correct specifically that the entirety of Lot 1 located at 410 Coulbourne Lane be located in the Town of Snow Hill municipal limits, and Coulbourne Lane between Market Street and the Town of Snow Hill municipal limits.

A complete text of the passed resolution 2025—08 is available for review at Town Hall, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, Maryland, 21863. OCD-2/19/4t

PUBLIC NOTICE

The Mayor and City Council, a public community transit service provider in Ocean City, Maryland, is offering the opportunity for a public hearing to provide citizens a forum to present views on the following proposals:

Elimination of Twelve (12) Underutilized Bus Stops

The goal of this proposal is to enhance the bus service by reducing unnecessary stops, improving both travel times and bus frequency (“headways”). However, if any individual person or entity feels they will be negatively impacted by the removal of any of the listed stops, please provide your feedback to Transportation Manager Robert Shearman, Jr. via the below listed means. All responses will be given due consideration.

Northbound (7): 4th, 76th, 98th, 121st, 124th, 128th, 137th

Southbound (5): 141st, 134th, 124th, 80th, 69th

A Public Hearing will be held upon request. Requests for a Public Hearing must be in writing and will be received until 4 p.m. Monday, March 23, 2026. Requests for a Public Hearing and/or other written comments should be sent to the following address and clearly marked:

Ocean City Transportation

Attn: Transportation Manager, Robert Shearman, Jr.

224 65th Street

Ocean City, Maryland 21842

Written comments can also be emailed to: Rob Shearman Jr. at rshearman@oceancitymd.gov

If requested, a Public Hearing will be held:

Monday, April 6, 2026

6:00 p.m.

City Hall Council Chambers

301 North Baltimore Avenue

Ocean City, Maryland 21842

If special assistance is required at the Public Hearing contact Ocean City Transportation, Administrative Coordinator, at 410-723-2174 prior to 4 p.m. Monday, March 23, 2026. OCD-2/19/5t

D NICOLE GREEN ESQ

D. NICOLE GREEN, PA

300 EAST MAIN STREET

SALISBURY, MD 21801

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of JERDEANE S WATERS

AKA: JERDEANE K SMITH WATERS Estate No. 21023 Notice is given that NKEMJIKA WATERS whose address is 6161 DUCKWEED CT SALISBURY, MD 218018456 was on FEBRUARY 12, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JERDEANE S WATERS who died on APRIL 11, 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 interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 12th day of AUGUST, 2026.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 12th day of AUGUST, 2026.

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

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

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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-2/19/3t

Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland

PROPOSAL

SOLICITATION

P04-26 – Ocean City Boardwalk Pedicab Franchise Services

The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Ocean City Boardwalk Pedicab Franchise Services and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents. Proposal Documents for the Ocean City Boardwalk Pedicab Franchise Services may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Leonard at dleonard@oceanci-

tymd.gov, or by calling (410) 7236643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their Proposals. The Town is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any third-party service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.

A Pre-Proposal Meeting is not applicable for this Request for Proposal. The Last Day for Questions will be on FRIDAY, MARCH 6TH, 2026, AT 4:00PM EST. Addendum will be posted by close of business on MONDAY, MARCH 9TH, 2026. Sealed Proposal Documents are due no later than MONDAY, MARCH 16TH, 2026, BY 4:00PM EST. Proposal submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the PROCUREMENT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, ON TUESDAY, MARCH 17TH, 2026, AT 1:00PM EST. Proposals are to be submitted to the Procurement Office located at 214 65th Street, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (P04-26 – Ocean City Boardwalk Pedicab Franchise Services) must be noted on the outside of the package. Late Proposal Documents will not be accepted.

Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation.

Matt Perry Procurement Manager

Town of Ocean City, Maryland OCD-2/19/4t

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20879 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF VICTOR HENRY BIRCH

Notice is given that Susan Cropper Birch, 12217 Sinepuxent Rd., Berlin, MD 21811-2612, was on February 09, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Victor Henry Birch who died on September 22, 2025, with a will. There was a prior small estate proceeding.

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

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 9th day of August, 2026.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 9th day of August, 2026.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to

the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

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

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

Susan Cropper Birch 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:

February 19, 2026

OCD-2/19/3t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of CAROL ANN HAFER Estate No. 20314 Notice is given that RICHARD EDWARD HAFER whose address is 9916 GOLF COURSE RD., TRLR. 1, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-9516 was on FEBRUARY 10, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of CAROL ANN HAFER who died on JULY 18, 2024 with a will.

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

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 10th day of AUGUST, 2026

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 10th day of AUGUST, 2026

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

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

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

unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-2/19/3t

SIDRAH IJAZ

429 W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863

Plaintiff, v.

CLARENCE W. HEATH

32353 Costen Road Westover, MD 21871

And

Defendant,

JESSE J. HEATH (Deceased)

32353 Costen Road Westover, MD 21871

Defendant

And THE TESTATE AND INTESTATE SUCCESSORS OF JESSE J. HEATH, DECASED, AND ALL PERSONS CLAIMING BY, THROUGH, OR UNDER THE DECEDENT

32353 Costen Road Westover, MD 21871

Defendant

And THE JUDGMENT GROUP

1003 Butterworth Court Stevensville, MD 21666 Defendant

And JOHN HERBECK

D/B/A EASTERN SHORE JUDGMENT RECOVERY 27381 Evans Drive Marion, MD 21838

Defendant

And POCOMOKE CITY, MARYLAND 101 Clarke Ave Pocomoke City, MD 21851

And

Defendant,

WORCESTER COUNTY

Attn: Ondrea Starzhevskiy 1 West Market Street, Room 1105 Snow Hill, MD 21863, Defendant,

And ALL PERSONS THAT HA VE OR CLAIM TO HAVE ANY INTEREST IN PROPERTY SITUATE IN WORCESTER CO, MD DESCRIBED AS: LOT 2 3102 SQ FT 504 YOUNG ST L V LAYMAN INC SUBD PL, Pocomoke Tax Account# 01-020587, Defendant.

IN THE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

Case No.: C-23-CV-26-000013

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property described below and located in Worcester County, sold by the Collector of Taxes for the County of Worcester and the State of Maryland to the Plaintiff in this proceeding: Account No. 01-020587, Property description LOT 2 3102 SQ FT 504 YOUNG ST L V LAYMAN INC SUBD PL, Pocomoke, Assessed to

Heath Clarence and Heath Jesse J, and owned by Clarence W. Heath and Jesse J. Heath. The Complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid.

It is, thereupon this 27th of January, 2026, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, ORDERED that notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this order in some newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County, Maryland once a week for three (3) successive weeks, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 19th day of April, 2026, and redeem the property described above 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 title, free and clear of all encumbrances., and it is further Brian D. Shockley Judge, Circuit Court for Worcester County True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-2/26/3t

LEWIS MCDANIELS, LLC

41 N Market St. Frederick, Maryland 21701

Insight Real Estate, LLC, Plaintiff, vs.

Louis Costen; Ada L. Costen; The testate and intestate successors of Louis Costen, believed to be deceased, and all persons claiming by, through, or under the decedent; The testate and intestate successors of Ada L. Costen, believed to be deceased, and all persons claiming by, through, or under the decedent; Marie C. Smith, State Tax Sale Ombudsman; Worcester County, Maryland; any and all unknown owners of the property and premises situate in Worcester County, Maryland, described as APP 55'X165' 113 ROSS STREET SNOW HILL and being identified on the Tax Roll as Parcel ID: 02-017385, and which may be known as 113 Ross St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, the unknown owner's heirs, devisees, and personal representatives and their or any of their heirs, devisees, executors, administrators, grantees, assigns, or successors in right, title and interest; and, any and all persons that have or claim to have any interest in the property and premises situate in Worcester County, Maryland, described as APP 55'X165' 113 ROSS STREET SNOW HILL and being identified on the Tax Roll as Parcel ID: 02017385, and which may be known as 113 Ross St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, Defendants.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY,

MARYLAND

Case No. C-23-CV-26-000024 (TAX SALE)

ORDER OF

PUBLICATION

The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of

redemption in the following property situate in Worcester County, Maryland, sold by the Collector of Taxes for Worcester County, Maryland, and the State of Maryland: described as APP 55'X165' 113 ROSS STREET SNOW HILL and being identified on the Tax Roll as Parcel ID: 02-017385, and which may be known as 113 Ross St., Snow Hill, MD 21863.

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

It is thereupon this 11th of February, 2026, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, ORDERED, that notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this Order in some newspaper having general circulation in Worcester County, Maryland, once a week for three (3) successive weeks, the last insertion on or before the 19th day of April, 2026, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 19th day of April, 2026, and redeem the property and/or answer the Complaint or thereafter a final judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in and as to the property, and vesting in the plaintiff a title free and clear of all encumbrances.

Brian D. Shockley JUDGE, Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-2/26/3t

PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110, Zoning, of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be conducted by the Planning and Zoning Commission in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on:

TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2026

At 6:30 pm

Pursuant to the provisions of Article II, Section 5, Conditional Uses, a request has been filed under the provisions of Section 110-514(22), Uses permitted by Conditional Use in the LC-1, Local Commercial, Zoning District, to permit an interior tenant fit-out with an amusement use that the Mayor and City Council may approve in keeping with uses specifically permitted in the LC-1 district. The site of the request is described as Tax Map 118, Grid 23, Parcel 7625A and as Building 2 of the Bayside Plaza Condo Plat. It is further described as being on the southwest corner of Coastal Highway and 138th Street and is locally

known as a unit within the Bayside Plaza Shopping Center located as 13725 Coastal Highway, Unit 12B, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: MAZE GAME, LLC (PZ FILE #26-12100001)

No oral or written testimony will be accepted after the close of the public hearing.

Public hearings that are not completed at one meeting may be continued without additional advertised notice provided the Commission Chairperson announces that the hearing will be continued and gives persons in attendance an opportunity to sign up for written notice of the additional hearing dates.

For further information concerning this public hearing, please contact the Department of Planning and Community Development, Room 242, City Hall, 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842. Phone 410-289-8855.

PLANNING

AND ZONING COMMISSION

JOSEPH P. WILSON, CHAIRPERSON MAUREEN HOWARTH, ESQ. ATTORNEY OCD-2/19/3t

GARY S TOSADORI, ESQ LAW OFFICES OF PETER G. ANGELOS

100 N CHARLES ST., 22FL BALTIMORE, MD 21201

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19127

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF CAROL E POIST

Notice is given that Lisa Kay Poist Phillips, 11839 Mano War Ln., Berlin, MD21811-3361 was on February 12, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Carol Poist who died on JANUARY 18, 2022 without a will.

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

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 12th day of August, 2026.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 12th day of August, 2026.

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

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

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

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

Lisa Kay Poist Phillips 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: February 26, 2026

OCD-2/26/3t

HEATHER R. KONYAR, ESQ. COCKEY, BRENNAN & MALONEY, P.C.

313 LEMMON HILL LN SALISBURY, MD 21801-4238

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20882 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MARK RAY EPPERSON

Notice is given that Harold Dean Epperson, 1 Meadow St., Apt. 218, Berlin, MD 21811-1367 was on February 10, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mark Ray Epperson who died on June 19, 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 interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file 10th day of August, 2026.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 10th day of August, 2026.

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

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

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

Harold Dean Epperson 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: February 26, 2026

OCD-2/26/3t

Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland

PROPOSAL SOLICITATION

B11-26 – 65th Street Service Center Renovations

The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking BID’s from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the 65th Street Service Center Renovations and for said work to conform with the BID Documents.

BID Documents for the 65th Street Service Center Renovations may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Leonard at dleonard@oceancitymd.gov, or by calling (410) 723-6643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their BID’s. The Town is not responsible for the content of any BID Document received through any third-party service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed BID Documents.

A Pre-BID Meeting will be held on TUESDAY, MARCH 3RD, 2026 AT 10:00AM EST, AT THE PROCUREMENT CONFERENCE ROOM, 214 65TH STREET, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842 The Last Day for Questions will be on TUESDAY, MARCH 10TH, 2026 AT 4:00PM EST. Addendum will be posted by close of business on WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11TH, 2026

Sealed BID Documents are due no later than MONDAY, MARCH 30TH, 2026, BY 10:00AM EST. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION, ON TUESDAY, MARCH 31ST, 2026, AT 1:00PM EST. BID’s are to be submitted to the Mayor and City Council, Attention: City Clerk; Room 230, 301 North Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (65th Street Service Center Renovations) must be noted on the outside of the package. Late BID Documents will not be accepted.

Minority Vendors are encouraged

to compete for the Award of

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

Sealed bids for Coulbourne Lane Well Backup Power will be received by the Town of Snow Hill, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863, until 11:00 A.M., local time, on Friday, March 27, 2026, at which time they will be opened publicly and read aloud.

The proposed project generally consists of installation of a backup power supply at the Town of Snow Hill Coulbourne Lane well facility consisting of a diesel-driven generator and automatic transfer switch.

The Issuing Office for the Bidding Documents is GEORGE, MILES & BUHR, LLC, 206 West Main Street, Salisbury, Maryland, (410) 742-3115. Prospective Bidders may examine the Bidding Documents at the Issuing Office on Mondays through Fridays between the hours of 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and may obtain copies of the Bidding Documents from the Issuing Office as described below.

Bidding Documents may also be examined at the Town of Snow Hill, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863, on Mondays through Fridays between the hours of 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

Copies of the Contract Documents may be purchased at the office of George, Miles & Buhr, LLC, 206 West Main Street, Salisbury, Maryland 21801, upon payment of Forty Dollars ($40.00) for each flash drive, non-refundable. Hard copies may be purchased for One Hundred Dollars ($100.00). Please email sharrold@gmbnet.com for coordination of purchase. Checks shall be made payable to George, Miles & Buhr, LLC. Neither Owner nor Engineer will be responsible for full or partial sets of Bidding Documents, including Addenda if any, obtained from sources other than the Issuing Office.

A pre-bid conference will be held at the Snow Hill Town Hall Annex, 309 North Washington Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863 on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at 9:30 A.M. local time to allow Contractors an opportunity to obtain information on the project from the Consulting Engineer and the Owner. A site visit will immediately follow the pre-bid conference. Attendance at the pre-bid conference is encouraged but is not mandatory.

Each bid must be accompanied by a Bid Bond payable to the Owner for five percent (5%) of the total amount of the bid. No bidder may withdraw his bid within one hundred (100) days after the actual date of the opening thereof.

Any contract or contracts awarded under this Advertisement

for Bids will be funded through a Maryland Department of the Environment’s (MDE) Water Supply Grant. All requirements referenced in the insert dated January 2026 will apply to this project.

The Town of Snow Hill reserves the right to reject any and all bids, and/or waive informalities or irregularities, and/or to accept or reject any items of any bid, as it may deem best for its interest. The bids will be evaluated, and award will be made to the lowest responsive, responsible bidder.

Town of Snow Hill, Maryland

Rick Pollitt Town Manager OCD-2/26/2t

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS BOARD OF PORT WARDENS

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 106 ”Waterways,” Article II – “Shoreline Development” of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Port Wardens Ordinance of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland.

Thursday, March 12, 2:00 PM

PW 26-018 A request has been submitted to remove one existing piling; install one new boatlift with four associated pilings not to exceed 16’ channelward. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 2808 PLOVER DR UNIT C Parcel # 4800 -327E - in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT/OWNER: Robert Gerald Bathurst

PW 26-019 A request has been submitted to install support pilings in front of existing bulkhead; construct a 2’ x 30’ platform with a 4.5’ x 13’ angled end (total sq.ft = 77); a 17.5’ pier with a varied width of 4’ at bulkhead end and 6’ at water end. Install one boat lift with associated pilings and two 4’ x 12’ PWC floating lifts. All construction maximum channelward extension 17.5’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 301 S HERON GULL CT Parcel # 6071A104 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Ken Lefebvre

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc.

PW 26-020 A request has been submitted to construct a 6’ x 25’ shared pier and install one boatlift with associated pilings maximum channelward extension of 31’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 631 GULF STREAM DR Parcel # 8020A1470B- in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: August C. Takovich

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart &

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS TOWN OF OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND

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

Thursday, March 12, 2026 AT 6:00 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an application related to Section 110-94(3)(a) has been filed to request a special yard exception for a proposed enclosed sunroom to be 15 feet from the front property line, rather than 20 feet as required by Code. The Property is described as Lot 21, Block 7, Section K, of the Caine Woods Plat. It is further described as being located on the east side of Sea Captain Road and is locally known as 14000 Sea Captain Road, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: JEFFREY AND MICHELLE ROSENKILDE (BZA 2734, FILE 26-09400002)

Further information concerning the public hearings may be examined in the office of the Department of Planning and Community Development in City Hall.

Christopher Rudolf, Chairman Maureen Howarth, Attorney OCD-2/26/2t

NOTICE

OF PUBLIC HEARING

WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS AGENDA

THURSDAY MARCH 12, 2026

Pursuant to the provisions of the Worcester County Zoning Ordinance, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held in-person before the Board of Zoning Appeals for Worcester County, in the Board Room (Room 1102) on the first floor of the Worcester County Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland. Audio and video recording will take place during this public hearing.

The public is invited to view this meeting live online athttps://worcestercountymd.swagit.co m/live

6:30 p.m. Case No. 26-15, on the lands of Mildred and Jacob Gatrell, on the application of Suzanne Specht, requesting an after-the-fact variance to the side yard setback

from 8 feet to 6.5 feet (to encroach 1.5 feet) for an existing detached garage in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1206(b)(2) and ZS 1-305, located at 9 Burr Hill Drive, Tax Map 16, Parcel 39, Section 2, Lot 75, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:35 p.m. Case No. 26-14, on the lands of The Lions Den, Inc., on the application of Jack Mumford III, requesting a special exception to replace an existing fraternal lodge building with a new building in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(3), ZS 1-122(f), ZS 1-206(c)(8) and ZS 1-305, located at 9039 Worcester Highway, Tax Map 32, Parcel 7, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:40 p.m. Case No. 26-16, on the lands of KCK-F LLC, on the application of Hugh Cropper IV, requesting a special exception (transient use) to allow a special event in the A-2 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code ZS 1-105(c)(5), ZS 1-116(c)(3) and ZS 1-337, located at 10639 Griffin Road, Tax Map 20, Parcel 174,Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

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BID

SOLICITATION

Berlin Homeowner Convenience Center Improvements

Worcester County is seeking Bids from qualified Vendors for the Berlin Homeowner Convenience Center Bulkhead Improvement Project in conformity with the requirements contained in the Documents.

Bid Documents for the above referenced project may be obtained from the Worcester County Commissioner’s Office by either e-mailing the Procurement Officer at purchasing@worcestermd.gov, by calling 410-632-1194 during normal business hours, or via the County’s Bids page on the County’s website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their bids. Worcester County is not responsible for the content of any Bid Document received through any third party bid service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Bid Documents.

A pre-bid conference will be held on site at 9636 Mill Haven Road, Berlin, MD 21811, on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at 10 a.m.

The last date/time for questions will be Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at noon.

Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at 2 p.m. and will be opened and read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863.

Late Bid Documents cannot be accepted.

Envelopes shall be marked “Bid

Solicitation –Berlin HOCC” in the lower left-hand corner. Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for award of the solicitation.

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NOTICE

Cellco Partnership and its controlled affiliates doing business as Verizon Wireless (Verizon Wireless) proposes to build a 43-foot Pole Communications Tower. Anticipated lighting application is a medium intensity dual red/white strobes. The Site location is the parking lot at 12724 Airport Road Berlin, Worcester, Maryland 21811, COORDINATES 38 18 38.5236N, 75 7 4.6734W. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Antenna Structure Registration (ASR, Form 854) filing number is [A1376613].

ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS –Interested persons may review the application (www.fcc.gov/asr/applications) by entering the filing number. Environmental concerns may be raised by filing a Request for Environmental Review (www.fcc.gov/asr/environmentalrequest) and online filings are strongly encouraged. The mailing address to file a paper copy is: FCC Requests for Environmental Review, Attn: Ramon Williams, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554. HISTORIC PROPERTIES EFFECTS - Public comments regarding potential effects on historic properties may be submitted within 30 days from the date of this publication to: EBI Consulting (RE: EBI #260060991PR), 21 B Street, Burlington, MA 01803, (617) 715-1822, EBIPNReplies@ebiconsulting.com.

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SHOREAL ESTATE HOLDINGS, LLC Plaintiff vs. JOHN R. DAVIS, WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

AND

(All persons having or claiming to have an interest in the property situate and lying in Worcester County and known as:)

395 DUELING WAY

BERLIN, MARYLAND 21811

UNKNOWN OWNERS OF THE PROPERTY:

395 DUELING WAY

BERLIN, MARYLAND 21811

The unknown owner's heirs, devisees, and Personal Representatives and their or any of their heirs, devisees, executors, administrators, grantees, assigns, or successors in right, title and interest Defendants IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY CASE NO: C-23-CV-26-000054

ORDER OF

The object of this proceeding is to

secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property described below in the State of Maryland, sold by the Collector of Taxes for Worcester County and the State of Maryland to the Plaintiff in this proceeding:

List No. 10, Parcel No. 03-163423, Property Description: LOT 47 PH 1S 23092 SF DUELING WAY DECATUR FARMS PL, Assessed to JOHN R. DAVIS, also known as 395 DUELING WAY, BERLIN, Maryland 21811, on the Tax Roll of the Director of Finance.

The Complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid although more than nine (9) months and a day from the date of sale has expired.

It is thereupon this 25th of February, 2026, 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 a general circulation in Worcester County once a week for three (3) successive weeks on or before the 27th day of April, 2026, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 27th day of April, 2026 and redeem the property described above 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 a 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-3/5/3t

MARIANNA BATIE ESQ. BATIE LAW LLC

9748 STEPHEN DECATUR HWY., STE. 112 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-9358

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21038 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF FELIPE NUESCA ARZADON

Notice is given that Glen Karl Arzadon, 121 Maple Dr., Berlin, MD 21811-1117, was on February 26, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Felipe Nuesca Arzadon who died on August 19, 2024, with a will.

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

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 26th day of August, 2026.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 26th day of August, 2026.

Any person having a claim

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

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

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

Glen Karl Arzadon

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: March 06, 2026

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PROPOSAL SOLICITATION

FY 2026 Amended Worcester County Reinvestment and Repair Grant Program Application

Worcester County Local Management Board (LMB), is soliciting applications for the FY26 Amended Worcester County Reinvestment and Repair Grant Program. The Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund (CRRF), established by Maryland's Cannabis Reform Act of 2023, allocates 35% of adult-use cannabis tax revenue to local jurisdictions to support community initiatives benefiting low-income and disproportionately impacted communities. The Maryland Office of Social Equity guides state CRRF spending.

Proposal Documents for the above referenced project may be obtained from the Worcester County Commissioner’s Office by either e-mailing the Procurement Officer at purchasing@worcestermd.gov, by calling 410-632-1194 during normal business hours, or via the County’s Bids page on the County’s website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their bids. Worcester County is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any third party bid service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.

A pre-proposal meeting will be held via Google Meet on Friday, March 13, 2026, from 10:30 – 11:00 a.m.

Sealed Proposal Documents are due no later than Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. They will be

opened and only vendor names will be read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863. Late Proposal Documents cannot be accepted. Envelopes shall be marked “Proposal Solicitation – LMB - CRRF” in the lower left-hand corner. Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for the award of solicitation.

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TOWN OF BERLIN

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

RFP # 2026-03 Berlin Lead Service Line Replacement—Phase 1A

Due Date: April 1, 2026 Time: 11:00 am EST

The Town of Berlin is seeking Proposals for approximately 84 lead services to be replaced in its entirety along William Street. The existing services are required to be replaced as part of the “The Lead and Copper Rule” mandate the project is funded by the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund through the Maryland Department of the Environment, and is subject to the required DBE efforts, BABAA, and Davis-Bacon wage rates.

Qualified contractors are encouraged to visit the Town of Berlin website at berlinmd.gov/government/requestfor-proposals/ or contact Director of Water Resources Jamey Latchum at 410-641-3845/ jlatchum@berlinmd.gov for the official RFP. EEO.

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BATIE LAW LLC

MARIANNA BATIE ESQ. 9748 STEPHEN DECATUR HWY., STE. 112

OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-9358

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE

ESTATE NO. 21016

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Probate court of Oakland County, Michigan appointed Sima Birach Jr., 5138 Woodlands Ln., Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302-2869 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Sima Birach Sr. who died on October 14, 2025 domiciled in Michigan, USA.

The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is Marianna. Batie Esq., 9748 Stephen Decatur Hwy., Ste. 112, Ocean City, MD 12842-9358.

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

All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims

with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:

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

Sima Birach Jr. 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: March 5, 2026

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QUINN W. MCGINNES WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON, LLP 3509 COASTAL HWY. OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3334

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21041 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF CATHERINE M. MOORE

Notice is given that Margaret A. Moore, 76 Wood Duck Dr., Berlin, MD 21811-1751, was on February 27, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Catherine M. Moore who died on December 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 interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 27th day of August, 2026.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 27th day of August, 2026.

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

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

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

unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Margaret A. Moore

Personal Representative

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

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest

Date of publication: March 05, 2026

PUBLIC NOTICE

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

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

These three weeks of notification begins on DATE: 03/06/2026

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SHANNON GAHS ESQ.

5300 DORSEY HALL, STE. 204

ELLICOTT CITY, MD 21042-7818

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 21033

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF DONNA ZOE DOUGAN

Notice is given that Jessica Lynn Lloyd Hrubar, 1132 W. Pine St., Feasterville, Trevose, PA 190534534, was on February 27, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Donna Zoe Dougan who died on December 13, 2025, with a will.

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

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 27th day of August, 2026.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 27th day of August, 2026.

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

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

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

Jessica Lynn Lloyd Hrubar 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

AUTH: Raymond J Austin Chief of Police

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest

Date of publication: March 05, 2026

BID

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SOLICITATION

Blacktop Resurfacing - Public Works Administration Building Parking Lot - Worcester County, Maryland

Worcester County is currently accepting bids for resurfacing of the parking lot for the Public Works Administration Building located at 6113 Timmons Road, Snow Hill, Maryland in Worcester County to be completed before June 30, 2026 requiring Superpave 9.5mm Bituminous Concrete at 2” compacted depth for paving of roughly 2375 square yards for the Maintenance Division of Public Works in conformity with the requirements contained in the Bid Documents.

Bid Documents for the above referenced project may be obtained from the Worcester County Commissioner’s Office by either e-mailing the Procurement Officer at purchasing@worcestermd.gov, by calling 410-632-1194 during normal business hours, or via the County’s Bids page on the County’s website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their bids. Worcester County is not responsible for the content of any Bid Document received through any third party bid service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Bid Documents.

The last date/time for questions will be Tuesday, March 16, 2026, at noon.

Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than Monday, March 23, 2026, at 2 p.m. and will be opened and read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863.

Late Bid Documents cannot be accepted.

Envelopes shall be marked “Bid Solicitation - Blacktop ResurfacingPublic Works Admin” in the lower left-hand corner.

Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for award of this solicitation.

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BID

SOLICITATION

Blacktop ResurfacingRecreation Center Parking LotWorcester County, Maryland

Worcester County is currently accepting bids for resurfacing the parking lot for the Recreation Center located at 6030 Public Landing Road, Snow Hill, Maryland in Worcester County to be completed before June 30, 2026, requiring Superpave 9.5mm Bituminous Concrete at 2” compacted depth for paving of roughly 6,950 square yards for the Maintenance Division of Public Works in conformity with the requirements contained in the Bid Documents.

Bid Documents for the above referenced project may be obtained from the Worcester County Commissioner’s Office by either e-mailing the Procurement Officer at purchasing@worcestermd.gov, by calling 410-632-1194 during normal business hours, or via the County’s Bids page on the County’s website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to

submitting their bids. Worcester County is not responsible for the content of any Bid Document received through any third party bid service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Bid Documents.

The last date/time for questions will be Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at noon.

Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at 2 p.m. and will be opened and read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863.

Late Bid Documents will not be accepted.

Envelopes shall be marked “Bid Solicitation - Blacktop ResurfacingRecreation Ctr” in the lower lefthand corner.

Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for award of this solicitation.

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NOTICE

Crown Castle is proposing to install new wireless telecommunications antennas at approx. 29ft on an existing 36-ft Light Pole near the following site: 7 45th Street, Ocean City, Worcester County, Maryland 21842 (38 22 15.44N / 75 4 8.5W). The facility is not expected to be FAA lighted. Crown Castle invites comments from any interested party on the impact of the proposed action on any districts, sites, buildings, structures or objects significant in American history, archaeology, engineering or culture that are listed or determined eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places and/or specific reason the proposed action may have a significant impact on the quality of the human

environment. Specific information regarding the project is available by contacting EBI Consulting, Project #260061005PR, 21 B Street, Burlington, MA 01803, or at (617) 715-1822.

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IN THE ORPHANS’ COURT FOR (OR) BEFORE THE REGISTER OF WILLS FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND IN THE ESTATE OF: ROBERT K. HARTMAN AKA: ROBERT KENNETH HARTMAN SR. ESTATE NO. 21042

NOTICE

OF JUDICIAL PROBATE

To all Persons Interested in the above estate:

You are hereby notified that a petition has been filed by Thomas J. Kokolis, Esq., 12154 Darnestown Road, #243, Gaithersburg, MD 20878 for judicial probate for the appointment of a personal representative. A hearing will be held at One W. Market Street, Court Room 4, Court House, Snow Hill, MD 21863 on April 07, 2026 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: March 05, 2026

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ROBERT G. LOWE III

11536 QUILLIN WAY BERLIN, MD 21811-2567

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21036 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JOANNE M. BREEDLOVE AKA: JOANNE MILLER BREEDLOVE

Notice is given that Daniel Harlan Breedlove, 8779 Unionville Rd., Easton, MD 21601-7319, was on February 26, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Joanne M. Breedlove who died on February 02, 2026, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 26th day of August, 2026. All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 26th day of August, 2026.

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

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

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

Daniel Harlan Breedlove 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:

March 05, 2026

OCD-3/5/3t

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 21031 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF PARSHOTAM L. SETHI

Notice is given that Ramesh Sethi, 20 Rockside Rd., Berlin, MD 21811-1858, was on February 19, 2026 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Parshotam L. Sethi who died on January 26, 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 interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.

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

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

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

itor 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.

Ramesh Sethi 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: March 05, 2026

OCD-3/5/1t

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

IN THE ESTATE OF: MARY E. SAILORS ESTATE NO. 20952

NOTICE OF JUDICIAL

PROBATE

To all Persons Interested in the above estate:

You are hereby notified that a petition has been filed by Michelle Simon, Esq., 401 N. Washington Street, #445, Rockville, MD 20850 for judicial probate of the will 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 March 24, 2026 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: March 5, 2026

OCD-3/5/2t

TOWN OF OCEAN CITY ORDINANCE

2026-01

RE: Comprehensive Plan Update

Notice is hereby given by the Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, that Ordinance 2026-01 was tabled on first reading at the February 2 Regular Session and further discussed at the February 24 Work Session with additional changes incorporated into the final Plan. Ordinance 2026-01 was introduced for first reading again on March 2, 2026.

Second reading is scheduled March 16, 2026. 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 March 2, 2026, agenda packet. This ordinance adopts the 2025 Comprehensive Plan. Visit the Planning and Community Development webpage at oceancitymd.gov to view the entire plan, including a tracked-changes version.

OCD-3/5/1t

TOWN OF OCEAN CITY ORDINANCE

2026-07

RE: Property Conveyance: Portion of an Alley

Notice is hereby given by the Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, that Ordinance 2026-07 was introduced for first reading at their meeting of March 2, 2026. Second reading is scheduled March 16, 2026. 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 March 2, 2026, agenda packet. This ordinance authorizes the abandonment, closure and conveyance of a portion of an alley that is 16’ wide by 50’ in length (800 square feet) between 26th and 27th Streets oceanside, specifically separating Lots 3 and 10 in Block 79N.

OCD-3/5/1t

TOWN OF OCEAN CITY ORDINANCE

2026-08

RE: Yard Setbacks in LC-1 and SC-1 Districts

Notice is hereby given by the Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, that Ordinance 2026-08 was introduced for first reading at their meeting of March 2, 2026. Second reading is scheduled March 16, 2026. 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 March 2, 2026, agenda packet. This ordinance amends Chapter 110, Zoning, with regard to yard setback regulations in LC-1, Local Commercial, and SC-1, Shopping Center, Districts to include residential and subdivided two-family dwellings and townhouses.

OCD-3/5/1t

SMALL

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 21022

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF GARTH JAMES MCGAUGHEY

Notice is given that Maureen McGaughey, 11 Bimini Ln., Ocean Pines, MD 21811-1800, was on February 20, 2026 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Garth James McGaughey who died on January 17, 2026, with a will.

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

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

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal 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.

Maureen McGaughey 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: March 05, 2026

OCD-3/5/1t

Introduction to buyer agreements

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer

(March 6, 2026) One of the more recent National Association of REALTORS Consumer Guides focuses on buyer agreements. NAR explains that if you’re a homebuyer working with an agent who is a REALTOR®, it means you are working with a professional ethically obligated to work in your best interest. A written buyer agreement is an agreement between you and your real estate professional outlining the services they will provide you, and what they will be paid.

Written buyer agreements became a nationwide requirement for many real

estate professionals as a part of the National Association of REALTORS proposed settlement of litigation related to broker commissions. The requirement went into effect on August 17, 2024. In Maryland, written buyer agreements are not new. Some states, like Maryland, have required them for years, while many other states had not. Regardless, they are now a nationwide requirement.

NAR further explained that buyers can negotiate any aspect of the agreement with their real estate professional, such as the services received, the length of the agreement, and the compensation. Compensation between you and your real estate professional is negotiable and not set by law. In the written agreement, the compensation must be clearly defined (e.g., $0, X flat fee, X percent, X

hourly rate)—and not open-ended or a range.

In Maryland, the buyer agreement is entitled “Exclusive Buyer/Tenant Residential Brokerage Agreement”. You will be asked to enter into this written buyer agreement before “touring” a home with them, either in-person or virtually. In addition, buyer agreements in Maryland require a specific termination clause.

While you are responsible for paying your real estate professional as outlined in the buyer broker agreement, you can still request, negotiate for, and receive compensation for your real estate professional from the seller or the seller’s listing brokerage.

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

April 3rd 10am-4pm

April 4th 10am-4pm

Worcester selects 2026 Teacher of the Year

(March 6, 2026) Worcester County Public Schools (WCPS) announced the 2026 Worcester County Teacher of the Year: Kiersten Conway of Snow Hill High School (SHHS).

During the 39th annual Teacher of the Year celebration, Worcester County Board of Education President

Todd Ferrante made the announcement following a program honoring all 14 school-level teachers of the year and their commitment to providing a high-quality education to the young people of Worcester County.

“I am incredibly proud of Kiersten and of all the outstanding educators we

To visit 206 Braemar, please enter through the Sun Deck North Tower. (The lobby is closed at this time of year) *Public welcome, if you can’t join me Noon to 2PM, call me directly & arrange your own personal viewing time.

8300 Coastal Highway Ocean City, MD 21842 Each CENTURY 21 Office is Independently Owned and Operated. This is not intended to solicit if you are currently listed with another REALTOR® Terry Looney, Broker Office: 410.723.4500 ext. 721 Direct: 410.726.7689 terry@terrylooney.com

Saturrdday 11am-1pm 401 S City

Saturrdday 11am-1pm Saturrdday 11am-1pm

Harbour Island, Ocean City2BR/2.5BA

Strreeet #210, Ocean City 2BR/2BA

have recognized this evening,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Wallace. “Ms. Conway represents the very best of Worcester County Public Schools. Her commitment to building meaningful relationships with students, delivering rigorous and accessible instruction, and contributing to school and district initiatives speaks to her dedication not only to her classroom, but to our entire community. She will be an exceptional representative for our school system as she advances to the state-level program.”

Committee.

A proud Worcester County graduate and mother of three, Kiersten Conway holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Salisbury University and a Master of Arts degree from The University of Phoenix. Now in her tenth year in education, including nine years with Worcester County Public Schools, she is currently in her third year teaching English 10 at Snow Hill High School. Conway believes that fostering meaningful relationships with students and delivering accessible, rigorous instruction empowers them to become critical thinkers and engaged citizens. She is an active member of her School Improvement Team and the District Literacy

“At the heart of this unit—and my teaching as a whole—is the belief that education should extend beyond the classroom. I believe my role as a teacher is to positively influence the next generation by helping students think critically, reflect deeply, and connect learning to the world around them. When students leave my classroom thinking more thoughtfully about their role in society, I know that teaching and learning have truly transcended the classroom.”

Conway was one of four finalists announced during the program.

The other outstanding finalists were Taylor Case of Showell Elementary School, Colleen Hood of Snow Hill Elementary School, and Megan Seyler of Stephen Decatur High School. Conway was selected by a panel of judges representing experts in the field of education, community leaders, and the current reigning 2025 Worcester County Teacher of the Year.

All candidates were judged based on a rigorous set of criteria in alignment with both the state- and national-level Teacher of the Year programs, which include instructional abilities, collaboration, building connections with our community, leadership and innovation both in and out of the classroom, and the ability to articulate their education beliefs and advocate for how to better this field.

New project slated for Route 589

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(March 6, 2026) A developer is planning a mixed-use commercial center for an empty parcel on Racetrack Road that would bring new retail, office, and restaurant space to the Route 589 corridor.

Worcester County’s Technical Review Committee had a major site plan review at its Feb. 11 meeting for what’s being called the 589 Group Project. Plans call for four retail buildings.

The grassy 11.05-acre parcel is located to the north of Abi’s Diner, and south of the new TidalHealth Gudelsky Family Medical Center. The property owner is 589 Group, LLC, which state business records show is based in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware.

Preliminary site plans by Vista Design show two 7,000square-foot buildings and one 4,625-square-foot building designated for retail, office, or restaurant. Another 4,000square-foot building could be used for a fast-food eatery in addition to office space.

To the rear of the property are three buildings for selfstorage or contractor shops, each 40,000 square feet in size. Another 600-square-foot building nearby would serve as a standalone office. The project will require site plan review by the State Highway Administration.

Internal memos from the county’s office of environmental programs show that there are currently no EDUs – or Equivalent Dwelling Units, the amount of water and sewer capacity assigned to a property – and all EDUs will need to be purchased before the agency signs off on permits.

Worcester County’s Department of Public Works also will have to review and approve any connections to public water and sewer collection for the Ocean Pines Sanitary Service Area.

This project represents the third major commercial development to date in the half-mile stretch of Racetrack Road.

The adjacent Gudelsky medical center opened in 2024, after first having been planned as a much larger building to rival Atlantic General Hospital in size.

Another project in the works is a 23-acre housing development known as Racetrack Village. It’ll have 136 townhouse-style buildings with units upstairs and down.

Each 900- to 1,200-square-foot unit would be designated for individual sale, and that the smaller home sizes – units would range in size from 900 to 1,200 square feet – might reflect a lower price point in the housing market, making them more affordable.

ESTATE MARKETPLACE

Town moves forward with zoning adjustment

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(March 6, 2026) A City Council majority this week agreed to move forward with a zoning amendment that will increase setbacks for residential developments located in certain commercial districts.

In a 5-1 vote, with Councilman John Gehrig opposed, the Ocean City Council on Monday approved the first reading of an ordinance to amend the city’s zoning code. With support from the city’s planning commission, the amendment would apply residential setback re-

quirements to residential developments built in the LC-1 local commercial and SC-1 shopping center zoning districts.

“I just don’t think it’s consistent. If we have a problem with the setbacks, there are numerous commercial properties that have the same thing, with porches and stairs that go right up to the sidewalk …,” Gehrig said.

Last month, the Ocean City Planning Commission voted 6-1 to forward the zoning code changes to the Ocean City Council with a favorable recommendation. The group proposed to apply front, side- and rear-yard setbacks found in

residential zoning districts to residential dwellings, subdivided two-family dwellings and townhouses built in certain commercial districts.

Before the City Council last week, staff noted the proposed change would set residential developments built in commercial zones farther away from major roadways and provide more space for utilities, stormwater management and landscaping. However, Gehrig shared his objections to the proposed zoning amendment, arguing that it did nothing to address commercial properties built close to Coastal Highway.

In a letter to the editor this week, local architect Rick Schoellkopf said the change may impact development and reduce property values.

“Public comments by the mayor, City Council members, and town officials suggest that requiring residential projects to adhere to ‘residential setbacks’ justifies this change,” he wrote. “However, the Town’s zoning structure already differentiates between residential districts.

“What’s the difference?” he said last week. “We’re trying to encourage commercials, I get it. But changing the code in order to do it, it just seems like a backdoor way to do it.”

The council proceeded with a first reading, which was passed this week.

“Single-family homes in R-1 require a 20-foot front setback, but the multifamily zoning districts that permit townhouses and condominiums have significantly smaller front yard requirements. Applying a 20-foot standard to multi-family residential projects in LC1 is inconsistent with the existing framework and risks misrepresenting how residential zoning standards actually function.”

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, eggrolls and homemade crab dip. Dry Dock also features a full menu with soups, salads, kick starters, pierogis and craft pizza.

■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ PICKLES PUB

706 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 410289-4891, picklesoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Easy to find with plenty of free parking, serving lunch, dinner and entire diverse menu until 1 a.m. Also nightly entertainment yearround 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. Family-friendly atmospheres at both locations. Weekend entertainment.

MIDTOWN

29th to 90th streets

■ 32 PALM

32nd Street in The Hilton, Ocean City 410289-2525, 32palm.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ THE BONFIRE

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

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

■ FAGERS ISLAND

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

$$ | Full bar

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

■ HOOKED

8003 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410723-4665, hookedoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ LONGBOARD CAFÉ

6701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 443664-5693, longboardcafe.com

$$-$$$ | Full bar

Casual Dining … Refined. Open for lunch and dinner. A wide range of gourmet burgers, innovative tacos, salads and 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.

UPTOWN 91st to 146th streets

■ ALBERTINO'S BRICK OVEN & EATERY

13117 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410250-2000, albertinosoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Featuring the best brick oven pizza, always handmade with fresh ingredients, ItalianAmerican 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, 410250-3337, thecrabbag.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ CRABCAKE FACTORY USA

120th Street, oceanside, Ocean City, 410250-4900, crabcakefactoryusa.com

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

■ 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

■ DIRTY HARRY’S

100 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-539-3020, Beach-net.com/dirtyharrys

$ | Kids’ Menu | Full bar

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

■ NANTUCKETS

Route 1, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-5392607, nantucketsrestaurant.com

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

■ TWINING’S LOBSTER SHANTY

Closed - Reopens March 11 Rte. 54, Fenwick Island, Del., 302-4362305, twiningshanty.com

Reservations | Kids’ Menu

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

WEST OCEAN CITY

■ ASSATEAGUE BAR AND GRILL

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

$$ | Full bar

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

■ BREAKFAST CAFE

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

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

■ CANTINA LOS AGAVES MEXICAN GRILL

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

$$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar

Ocean City’s newest Mexican restaurant and bar. Offering delicious and generous portions of the tastiest traditional and not so traditional #MexicanEats you have ever tried. Open everyday, 12 noon to 9 p.m., kitchen and bar.

■ DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND

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

This classic ice cream shop is a tradition for many families. Voted O.C.’s “Best Ice Cream” for the past 20 years, Dumser’s is celebrating decades of serving the shore, and the ‘40s-style décor takes you back in time. With locations throughout Ocean City, treating your tastebuds to this signature homemade ice cream is easy. The 123rd Street location offers lunch and dinner menus in addition to a wide variety of ice cream treats.

■ GREENE TURTLE WEST

Route 611, West Ocean City, 410-2131500

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

■ HARBORSIDE BAR & GRILL

12841 Harbor Rd., West Ocean City, 410213-1846, weocharborside.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

City eyes code changes for outdoor displays

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(March 6, 2026) With support from the Ocean City Planning Commission, the City Council will review changes to the city’s standards and permitting process for outdoor displays along the Boardwalk.

Following a public hearing Tuesday, during which Boardwalk merchants presented their questions and suggestions, the Ocean City Planning Commission agreed to forward a favorable recommendation on several amendments related to outdoor displays.

In addition to changing the annual permitting process, resort planners this week also agreed to amend some display standards for retailers, restaurants, hotels and amusements fronting the Boardwalk.

“It seems to me like these are good for the businesses,” Commissioner Palmer Gillis said. “It levels the playing field and puts a set of rules in place.”

At the start of Tuesday’s public hearing, Ocean City Planning and Community Development Director George Bendler reminded the public that the planning commission had attempted to rewrite the outdoor display code last spring, but that the mayor and City Council directed staff to enforce rules that were already in place.

Now, with the 2026 season approaching, he said officials were revisiting the code. He said the proposed changes were the result of staff recommendations and comments from the Ocean City Development Corporation (OCDC) Boardwalk Committee.

“[The Mayor and Council] did say to bring this matter back to the planning commission for discussion and a public hearing, which we are doing today,” he said. “We took that enforcement that we did this summer, and we took these changes that are recommended by staff, and that’s what’s going to be presented to you in this public hearing.”

Bendler noted the code amendment included changes to permitting. In addition to outlining the application process, and the conditions for accepting or denying an outdoor dis-

play permit, he said the code would also remove the OCDC Boardwalk Committee from the review process. He said that change was requested by OCDC.

“This is an improvement to our process that we’ve been dealing with …,” he said. “This is to streamline the process.”

Bendler said officials are also proposing updates to outdoor display standards related to sign sizes, limitations and exemptions.

When it comes to Boardwalk retailers, Bendler said staff added code language that prohibits signs from encroaching on neighboring businesses and being attached to utility poles, benches, trees and the like. The amendment also bans feather flags and requires merchants to bring in all activity-related displays.

“It needs to be brought in at night when the business is not open,” he said.

For restaurants, hotels and amusements, Bendler said the amendments would require operators to bring in any A-frame signs at night and would prohibit the use of feather flags. But as a tradeoff, the code will now allow banners to be displayed on private fences and railings.

“We had a lot of concern from the restaurant owners,” he said, “and we wanted to find some solution to allow banners on fences.”

Bendler also noted that a menu board or menu box would now be permitted at such establishments. With the input of OCDC, commissioners this week agreed to allow those boards to be a maximum of nine square feet.

Interested in getting more information more

Commissioners this week also reviewed proposed changes to the city’s sign ordinance, which included new definitions and size restrictions for fence signs, ground signs and roof signs. The amendments also address the display times for temporary signs, which would be reduced from six months to 30 days, and A-frame signage, which would now be prohibited during special events.

With input from Boardwalk merchants, and responses from city staff, the planning commission voted 5-0 to forward a favorable recommendation to the Ocean City Council. Bendler said the public would be given additional opportunities to speak on the ordinance at future meetings of the City Council.

“You will have an opportunity to speak on it there,” he said.

vanishing vanishing OCEAN CITY

WitH Bunk MAnn

The Nor’easter of March 6 and 7, 1962 remains the worst natural disaster in Ocean City’s history. Raging through three high tide cycles it covered the town with flood waters for several days as the ocean and bay converged upon the barrier island.

The Boardwalk was destroyed and many people were trapped in their homes. Houses in the areas above the then-city limits of 41st Street were washed off their foundations while a small inlet was temporarily created near 71st Street. Property damage was in the millions and two local men died in the storm.

Martial law was declared for the only time in the town’s history and the National Guard was sent and housed in the Ocean City Elementary School on 3rd Street (today’s City Hall). The Maryland State Police set up barricades at the Route 50 Bridge and locals had to show proof of residency to enter town.

Sixty-four years have passed and it’s still considered the worst storm to ever strike Ocean City.

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

by Aubrey Bodine, courtesy of Hale Harrison

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

A standing ovation for a high school musical

The USA ice hockey teams

Lowering a monthly bill

Looking forward to the Orioles

Little kids playing lacrosse with big helmets

Learning something from a movie

No news from a dentist appointment

Constructive feedback

Meeting new people

Deep talks with my high school senior about what’s happening in his life

Mexican leftovers for lunch

OC officials vote to abandon alleyway for redevelopment

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(March 6, 2026) Ocean City leaders this week agreed to abandon a portion of the alleyway between 26th and 27th streets so the owners of a hotel on the property can redevelop it.

Following a public hearing Monday, the Ocean City Council voted 60 to close and abandon a 16-foot-wide by 50-foot-long section

of alley separating surrounding lots. Officials say the move will allow the Harrison family to redevelop the neighboring Flagship Oceanfront Hotel.

“It is our contention that there is simply no public purpose for that alley,” Joe Moore, the Harrison family’s attorney, said, “because it dead ends into the north side of our hotel, which has been there for 66 years.”

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by Steve Green

LThe Adventures of Fatherhood

ast weekend was the “last” musical for our high school senior.

This year’s production was Newsies, and as I sat in the audience watching our son Beckett take the stage, I found myself doing what I have been doing a lot lately — trying to freeze time. The students, led so well by the talented and patient leaders of Worcester Prep’s drama program, Paulette DeRosa-Matrona and Christopher Buzby, delivered another outstanding performance. The singing, the choreography, the energy — it was Broadway-level in my admittedly biased opinion.

In the program, next to Beckett’s picture, was a short write-up. It said his two years participating in the school’s musicals were the highlight of his high school career.

At first, I was startled.

Really? The highlight? But as the show unfolded — and more importantly, as I watched him afterward — I understood.

While I was involved in the school play every year during my time at the same school, I was never more than a stage filler. I loved it, but I didn’t carry significant roles. Beckett, who regrets not joining theater his freshman and sophomore years, jumped in as an upperclassman and made the most of it. He wasn’t the lead in Footloose last year or in Newsies this year, but he was a significant contributor — fully invested, fully committed, fully alive in the experience.

Theater is a special world.

Beckett reflected afterward on the bonding with castmates and the sincere appreciation he developed for the adult leaders guiding them. There is something about shared vulnerability — about singing loudly, dancing in front of peers, missing cues in rehearsal, adlibbing at times of a lost line, laughing through mistakes — that accelerates and deepens connection.

Performance nights are merely the culmination of months of work. What the audience sees over two hours represents countless after-school rehearsals, weekends sacrificed, and lines practiced in bedrooms and car rides. Memorizing the script might actually be the easiest part. Add in choreography, blocking, lighting cues, scene changes and the quiet but critical work of the crew, and you realize how com-

plex these productions truly are.

I had to miss the after-performance gathering, but Pam was there. A friend sent parents videos of some seniors sharing reflections. Several talked about how the musicals made them feel important and relevant — seen in ways they hadn’t always felt elsewhere.

That struck me.

Theater kids are often labeled “different.” Maybe they are. But what I saw over the years was a group of young people brave enough to put themselves out there. Brave enough to care. Brave enough to risk embarrassment in pursuit of excellence.

And the talent? Remarkable.

The voices that carried the solos were powerful and polished. The acting chops were impressive. Timing, emotion, physical comedy — it was all there. I found myself repeatedly thinking, “How are these high school students?”

Yet beyond the talent was something deeper.

Theater is different from sports. I say that as someone who loves athletics and has spent years on sidelines and fields. Sports are wonderful, but they are also zero-sum. Someone wins. Someone loses. Seasons most often end in disappointment.

In theater, everyone wins.

On that final night, every single individual — from the leads to the supporting cast, from the tech crew behind the curtain to the ensemble of newsies filling the stage — stood shoulder to shoulder during curtain call. There was no scoreboard. No opponent. Just pride.

As the final scenes played out and the last notes rang through the auditorium, I turned to Pam and said quietly, “I can’t believe this is it.”

She nodded. We both rose to our feet, applauding through a blur of emotions — pride, gratitude, nostalgia. The good kind of emotional. The kind that hurts a little because you know it’s meaningful.

When the seniors took their bows, several were openly crying. If they were not under the bright lights, they soon were when the finality sunk in.

Seeing teenage boys cry is different. When emotions come unexpectedly and unfiltered, especially from young men conditioned to hide them, you understand the

depth of what they’re feeling. These weren’t tears of sadness alone. They were tears of gratitude. Of belonging. Of something that mattered coming to an end.

The bonds formed over these months are real. Shared work has a way of welding people together. They will scatter to colleges and careers, and some will be back on the stage next year, but they will always have these nights — the inside jokes from rehearsals, the backstage chaos, the moment the lights hit and the music swelled.

Senior year is becoming a steady drumbeat of “lasts.” Each one lands with weight.

And yet, alongside the nostalgia, something else is building — excitement. For every “last,” there is a coming “first.”

First college class. First dorm room.

I can feel it in my son. Underneath the emotion of closing chapters is anticipation. An ocean of opportunity lies ahead, wide and unknown.

As a father, I am learning that mixed emotions are not only normal — they are inevitable.

You can grieve the ending while celebrating what’s coming next. You can miss the boy who once needed (demanded) rides everywhere while being proud of the young man who now drives himself there. You can clap with tears in your eyes and still smile broadly.

I suspect from now until graduation in May, that will be the rhythm.

Pride and nostalgia.

Sadness and joy.

Endings and beginnings.

Last weekend’s curtain call was not just the end of a musical. It was a reminder that some of the most meaningful chapters of childhood don’t come with trophies or headlines. Sometimes they come with stage lights, shared harmonies, and a group of kids brave enough to tell a story together. Sometimes, they surprise you.

And sometimes, if you’re lucky, you get to sit in the audience and watch your son find his place in it.

(The writer is the executive editor of OC Today-Dispatch. He and his wife, Pamela, are proud parents of two boys. This weekly column examines their transition into parenthood and all that goes along with it. E-mail any thoughts to editor@octodaydispatch.com.)

Spring nears, but the ocean and bays are still cold

By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer

(March 6, 2026) Okay, so here we are. It’s the first week of March. March 1 was the first day of Meteorological Spring. Daylight saving’s time starts on March 8.

All of this points to the end of winter, the beginning of spring and hope springing eternal. It seems as if most people have had enough of winter, including surfers. Ah, but not so fast. March is still winter, regardless of temperatures starting to rise in the air and water.

Sure, flowers might be starting to bloom and trees might be starting to bud in Berlin and Salisbury.

And yes the thermometer might be reaching the 60s in these locales, but at the beach it’s a whole different story. The coastal areas might as well be considered separate from the rest of the Eastern Shore. It has its own micro-climate.

The fact is, that as of this writing, the Atlantic Ocean, Delaware Bay, and the Chesapeake Bay are still well into the 30s, which is cold indeed. This influences and has direct effect on the adjacent land mass. Unfortunately, it becomes a disadvantage at this time of year.

For the surfer, at least the ones that have kept active all winter, it probably doesn’t matter all that much. I think they revel in the notion that the beach is completely open and “belongs” almost exclusively to them. At any rate don’t put your winter gear and clothing away just yet.

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

Harrisons plan to rework hotel

As part of a plan to demolish and redevelop the Flagship property –historically known as the Diplomat Motor Hotel – the Harrison family came before the City Council in January with a request to close an estimated 800 square feet of alleyway between 26th and 27th streets.

In exchange, the hoteliers agreed to improve the remaining portion of the alley to the city’s standards – an effort that would include milling, repaving and more.

During Monday’s public hearing, Moore said the alleyway in question served no public need. He said that if abandoned, the corridor would be incorporated into the hotel’s redevelopment plans.

“We have plans for a 135-suite Springhill Suites by Marriott hotel, including a restaurant on the Boardwalk in approximately the same location that the Riptide Bar and Grill is currently,” G. Hale Harrison added.

For his part, Harrison said the redevelopment would improve the area and increase the city’s assessable tax base. He also noted that, once built, the hotel’s new driveway will reconnect 26th Street and 27th Street.

“Logically there’s no public purpose,” he said of the current alleyway. “It is a dead end.”

Public Works Director Hal Adkins was also called to testify at Monday’s

public hearing, during which he contended there was no public purpose for the alleyway. He noted that the corridor was surrounded on three sides by Harrison properties, and that there were no public utilities in the area.

“From my standpoint as a public works director, that 16-by-50 has no public need,” he said.

However, nearby resident Patricia Williams questioned how the closure would affect trash pickup and access to her private property. She noted that she had not been notified of the proposed abandonment.

“I think it will be an improvement,” she said, “but I’d like to know how it’s going to be an improvement.”

Mayor Rick Meehan said the planning commission’s review of the Flagship site plan had been publicized, and that questions could’ve been answered at that meeting. However, Adkins reassured Williams that residents and public works crews would still be able to access surrounding properties.

“I will still be able to traverse this area,” he said.

Following Monday’s public hearing, the City Council voted unanimously to abandon, close and convey the 800-square-foot portion of the alleyway between 26th and 27th streets.

OC Council approves sign rebuild

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(March 6, 2026) City officials this week agreed to allow The Harrison Hall to rebuild its hotel sign along Baltimore Avenue after it was blown down during a wind storm last month.

On Monday, Harrison Hotel, Inc. asked the Ocean City Council to approve the replacement of its pylon sign, located within the public right-of-way along Baltimore Avenue.

While the city code states that any nonconforming sign damaged by more than 50% of its value must be removed or brought into compliance, city officials voted unanimously to allow the reconstruction of the sign near its original location within the right-of-way.

“The Harrison Group desires to put the sign back into the exact location,” Planning and Community Development Director George Bendler told council members this week. “Their concern is that relocating the sign into their property would require them to either impact their parking or their existing pool there.”

Over a February weekend, the existing Harrison Hall hotel sign – constructed in the 1980s – was destroyed during a wind storm. Shortly after, city staff determined that the sign was located within the public right-of-way and was larger and taller than what is permitted.

According to city code, the nonconforming sign must be removed or brought into compliance. However, it could be reconstructed in its original location if approved by the mayor and City Council and supported by the Ocean City Development Corporation (OCDC).

“At the staff level and administrative level, staff cannot approve this because it is a nonconforming sign in the rightof-way,” Bendler explained. “And because we are in the upper downtown overlay district, we need OCDC to also vet this for approval and come to the Mayor and Council for approval.”

In a letter to council members, OCDC Executive Director Zach Bankert provided the organization’s approval, so long as certain conditions were met. Among them, that the Harrison Group acknowledges that the sign must be removed at the owner’s expense should the city ever elect to improve or utilize the unimproved right-of-way along Baltimore Avenue.

“The Baltimore Ave. Project is a long-term priority for the OCDC and we must insist that this condition is met,” the letter reads.

During Monday’s meeting, the City Council agreed to grant the request in a 6-0 vote, so long as the owners agreed to remove the sign if the right-of-way is improved. G. Hale Harrison of the Harrison Group noted that the sign may

have to shift a few feet because of the existing foundation.

Following the vote, Council President Matt James asked that the approval process be reviewed at a future work session. Staff agreed to come forward with a code amendment that would eliminate the need for council action.

“So we don’t have to do this every time moving forward, if there’s not a plan on the books to improve the unimproved right-of-way, I think we should look to change how this is approved in the future,” James said.

CROSSWORD

ARIES – MAR 21/APR 20

Aries, your natural charisma is at an all-time high right now. A bold idea you’ve been sitting on finally gets the green light. Put your plan into action this week.

TAURUS – APR 21/MAY 21

Comfort and luxury find you this week, Taurus. Expect a heartwarming moment in your personal or professional life that restores your sense of peace and well-being,

GEMINI – MAY 22/JUN 21

Your social circle may expand this week in the best way possible, Gemini. A new connection brings a refreshing perspective to a creative project. Now you’ll work out the details.

CANCER – JUN 22/JUL 22

Recognition is coming your way, Cancer. Your hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed. A small win will feel like a major victory, helping to inspire you to keep going.

LEO – JUL 23/AUG 23

Leo, adventure is calling you this week. Whether you take a trip or get involved in a new book, your mind is expanding and your imagination is soaring.

VIRGO – AUG 24/SEPT 22

A solution to an unsolved puzzle finally clicks into place, Virgo. You will feel a deep sense of relief and clarity. Don’t take on too much more right now, and ride this high that you are feeling.

LIBRA – SEPT 23/OCT 23

A conversation with a loved one could bring you two closer together than ever before, Libra. In fact, harmony will be a major player in all of your relationships right now.

SCORPIO – OCT 24/NOV 22

You are a magnet for productivity this week, Scorpio. You will breeze through your list of things to do with plenty of time left over for self-care.

SAGITTARIUS – NOV 23/DEC 21

Sagittarius, creativity is your superpower this week. Do not be afraid to express yourself through art, music, writing, or other creative pursuits.

CAPRICORN – DEC 22/JAN 20

Your foundation this week feels rock solid, Capricorn. A family matter is resolved with grace, leaving you feeling supported and loved. You will share good fortune with others.

AQUARIUS – JAN 21/FEB 18

This is the perfect week to share your vision with the world, Aquarius. Your communication skills are sharp. People will come around to your way of thinking.

PISCES – FEB 19/MAR 20

Abundance is flowing toward you, Pisces. Keep your eyes open for a surprise gift or a sudden increase in the tools you need to get things done.

Retired officer plans council run

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(March 6, 2026) Former Ocean City Police Department officer Jeff Heiser has filed to run in this spring’s special election.

Last week, Heiser joined the race to fill a vacancy created by former councilman Tony DeLuca’s resignation. He is the second to declare his candidacy for the two-year term.

“At this point in my life, I have some down time, and I kind of do miss serving the community and being involved …,” Heiser said in an interview Monday. “Being a police officer for so long, it’s in my DNA to want to help.”

Originally from Howard County, Heisier became a full-time resident of Ocean City in 1999. For 25 years, he worked his way up through the ranks of the department before retiring as a lieutenant in July 2024. He’s also teaching part-time at the Eastern Shore Criminal Justice Academy.

Heiser said he entertained the idea of running for a seat on the council two years ago, but ultimately decided

against it. When DeLuca stepped down from the council this winter, he said people started reaching out.

“When DeLuca withdrew, my phone started blowing up,” he recalled, “and a bunch of business owners and citizens said, ‘You should do it.’”

He said his time on the force had shown him issues he hopes to address if elected to the City Council.

“I want to be able to do something about it, but I can’t anymore because I’m retired,” he said.

As a councilman, Heisier said he would support full funding for police and first responders. He said that support extends to Ocean City workers.

“Without them doing their job, it makes our job harder,” he said.

Heiser added that he also wanted to get out into the community. When residents bring problems to him – whether that be a homeless issue or a snow removal issue – he said he wants to be the one to go out and see what is happening.

“If you can go and see it, you can make a more informed decision,” he said.

Heiser said he also sees the impact special events have on the community. While he understands that special events support Ocean City’s economy, he said he would push for events that are “respectful and responsible.”

“It should be livable for locals …” he said. “You can’t make it where it’s dangerous and public safety is a concern.”

Ultimately, Heiser said he wants to be a councilman that solves peoples’ problems, just as he did in his law enforcement career.

“Because I’ve lived here a long time, I know the city, I understand the city …,” he said. “Sometimes people feel like they don’t have a voice. I want to give them a voice.”

Heiser is married to Worcester County State’s Attorney Kris Heiser.

So far, both he and former councilman Peter Buas have filed to run in this year’s special election, scheduled for April 21.

In the general election, set for Nov. 3, candidates Billy Apostolou and Wayne Johnson have each filed to run for one of three seats up for grabs.

Hotel tax may fund sports complex

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(March 6, 2026) Changes to Ocean City’s room tax policy will allow advertising funds to also be used for a future sports complex.

On Monday, the Ocean City Council voted to pass the second reading of an ordinance that changes how the money the city receives from hotel rental tax can be spent. As adopted, the legislation allows advertising funds generated from room tax revenues to also be used for a sports facility.

From the outset, city officials have

made it clear that any sports complex the city constructs in the coming years would be funded in partnership with the Maryland Stadium Authority. The city’s portion of that cost would come from room tax revenues generated by hotel and vacation rental stays.

Last year, the city successfully petitioned the Worcester County Commissioners to increase the room tax rate from 5% to 6%. The proposed ordinance brought before the City Council for adoption Monday maintains the previously adopted fund dedication for advertising – 44% of the first 5% of room tax

collected, and 40% of the 1% increase –but would make the sports complex project an allowable expenditure.

According to a staff memo, the 1% increase in room tax is expected to generate an additional $5 million annually, for a total of $30 million over the coming years. An average of 43.3% (or $13 million) would be dedicated to both advertising and the sports complex, while the remaining 56.7% (or $17 million) would go to the general fund.

A location for the sports complex has not been announced, but city officials are continuing a search.

Opinions

School problems no crisis situation

The news coming out of Worcester County Public Schools hasn’t been good. An examination of its operations by the Office of Legislative Audits found financial and personnel mismanagement, along with circumstances serious enough to warrant an investigation by the state prosecutor’s office.

Little is known about the latter except that it could entail procurement issues. In addition, since that investigation is still active, school officials won’t have the information to share until investigators are ready to make it available.

On the other two problems, however, the auditor’s findings involving bus contractor payments and employee background checks seem less troubling this week than they did last week, when they were first revealed.

The findings that the school board way overpaid school bus contractors, for instance, may be a matter of style over substance. The school system’s formula for bus contractor compensation covers the contractors’ fuel taxes. This is even though contractors are exempt from those taxes and can file for refunds.

School officials, however, say the board and contractors negotiated a deal to pay the contractors ‘X’ amount and that the fuel tax issue doesn’t really figure into it.

As for the employee background check, one of the faults found was not that these checks had not been done but that not all files had sufficient records of those efforts. In addition, just because the state requires the school to check with an individual’s former employer doesn’t mean that the former employer will cooperate.

To be sure, the findings of the auditors must be remedied as swiftly as possible. As the same time, however, these difficulties hardly signify big trouble ahead, just as county government’s inadequate wastewater fees that became known last year did not lead to a collapse of the system.

Things happen in government just like they do in non-governmental business, and when they do, the public expects corrections to be made and then to move on.

Switching from Eastern Standard Time to Daylight Saving Time, as we will early this Sunday, is part of an evil hoax perpetrated on us by various media who want us to believe we will lose an hour of sleep in the morning.

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By Stewart Dobson

That won’t happen, because if I lost another hour of sleep in addition to what I’m already losing these days, I’d be waking up before I went to bed.

Besides, the gain or loss of sleep because of adjustments to our clocks and watches hinges on two assumptions, both of which are suspect.

One, of course, is that a cog in the global axis actually misses and then adds a beat each year to give us a 23-hour day in the spring and a 25-hour day in the fall. According to most scientific authorities, this does not occur.

Secondly, there’s the implication that we do not occupy the top rung on the ladder of all creation, as even the lowest of barnyard animals, for instance, knows when the sun rises and sets. We humans, on the other hand, need a clock to alert us to this phenomenon.

It all comes down to the conclusion that we go to bed and rise according to the clock since we apparently do not have the innate ability to awaken or fall asleep on our own. We are, therefore, at significant risk should a power outage arise.

In other words, if such an extended blackout did take place, we might not wake up or go to sleep for weeks, thus jeopardizing not just our jobs, but our very existence as well.

On the other hand, this could be what led to the extinction of the Neanderthals, who vanished some 30,000 years ago. Although scientists continue to ponder their mysterious disappearance — personally, I suspect they were rounded up and deported — the evidence suggests that Neanderthals could not tell time and so overslept until they died or didn’t sleep at all and burned their fuses on both ends.

Modern humans, on the other hand, fashioned crude instruments to track the solar cycles and therefore knew what time to get up in the morning.

It is therefore conceivable that someday scientists will discover and decipher an ancient cave wall pictograph that says, “Note to self –must do hunting and gathering – set rock to fall on head at 8:30 sharp instead of 7:30 for the next six months. Otherwise we’ll be starved for sleep and go extinct.”

Besides, it is not as if gaining or losing an hour of sleep is a phenomenon over which we have no control. Obviously, the people who argue that this is the case don’t own a recliner.

For those who don’t realize it, we actually have more than just two time categories: Standard Time, Daylight Saving Time and Recliner Time, with the latter having a certain property on weekends that allows for the suspension of time altogether.

I can’t speak to anyone else’s recliner experience, but I do know that mine provides me with many hours of extra sleep no matter what the clock says.

I’m sure that some law of physics applies to Recliner Time and I’ll have to research that ... assuming there are enough hours in the day to get around to it.

Between the Lines

By Steve Green

It seems like booking bands for music festivals has become challenging. It’s most likely all the competition on the music festival circuit as well as the talent making business decisions based on cost, travel and logistics.

On the local front, Boardwalk Rock, which was expected to return for its second year in May after a banner premier event, was scratched after a couple headline acts backed out. Additionally, Country Calling has moved to its previous two-day schedule after trying out three days in 2025. Now comes Oceans Calling, which seems to have experienced some booking trouble of its own. For me, the lineup is solid. However, after attending all three days during each of the previous editions, I had already decided I was going to cut back a bit. This year’s lineup did not make me change my mind, and I will most likely pick one day.

On Ocean 98.1 on Tuesday, C3 Presents promoter Tim Sweetwood seemed to alude to the challenges of lining up talent, saying, “We have some brand new folks and we have a couple of repeats, some that are favorites to some people. So hopefully it does not disappoint.” It was an interesting phrase that shared some insights.

The fact is web searches prove there are numerous large-scale music festivals held throughout the year across the country. Oceans Calling’s weekend is also the same as the popular four-day Bourbon & Beyond in Louisville, Kentucky and features some of the same acts. Some of the same bands playing at that event as in Oceans Calling are Mumford & Sons, Dave Matthews Band, Hootie & the Blowfish, Jet and Better Than Ezra. Other festivals held the same weekend as Oceans Calling are the Virginia Beach Neptune Festival and Big Fam Festival in Michigan. Neither festival has announced its lineups yet. That’s another sign of booking challenges.

Looking ahead to Country Calling’s lineup announcement, Sweetwood again seemed to acknowledge things are challenging, saying, “It’s in the works. It’s not easy to pull a rabbit out of the hat.” On that front, I predict (and hope) Jelly Roll will be back for the Oct. 2-3 event as a headliner. In 2024, he vowed to return, and I think we will see him back.

It’s introduced every year but it’s not necessary. Every winter in Annapolis efforts are launched to allow beer and wine sales in grocery stores. There is a bill currently on the Senate side as well as the House of Delegates and a lobbying website – ConsumerFreedomMD.com – is available supporting the changes.

While Maryland is one of only four states – Delaware, Alaska and Rhode Island are the others -- that does not allow beer and wine to be bought in grocery stores, there are major small business concerns with this legislation. Locally, there are numerous locally-owned beer and wine stores that will see a major loss of sales if customers can buy at a grocery store. Convenience will win out over supporting the local merchants most of the time. It’s not a good bill for our local economy.

The good news is the legislation, at least on the Senate side, is not expected to move forward. Senate President Bill Ferguson, a Baltimore City Democrat, said this will not be the session legislators will be “taking on this issue in a significant way.” He added the future could be different, saying, “I do think probably in the next term, we’re going to have to figure out some sort of compromise here.”

***

It will be interesting to see if Worcester moves forward with speed humps on Gum Point Road as a pilot program.

Though there was no discussion on the matter at this week’s commissioners meeting, the program was approved as part of the consent agenda, signaling the county will move ahead with the initiative. A speed study on Gum Point Road from May to September of 2025 showed 85% of motorists travel above 35 mph on the road with a posted speed limit of 30 mph. The county is suggesting lowering the speed limit to 25 mph and using speed humps on the road to keep speeds down.

A memo in the county packet makes it clear speed humps are wider and flatter than typically known speed bumps. Therefore, they are not a concern for emergency response vehicles or plows. The plan appears to be for the county to hold a 30-day advertising period allowing the impacted community to comment for or against the speed humps at proposed locations on the road. More information will be provided to the commissioners after the 30-day evaluation including cost estimates. Speed humps are estimated to cost about $2,500 apiece.

Residents along Gum Point have long been concerned about speeding.

Analysis needed for state electricity generation

Editor,

Did you know that, currently, the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) is not required to conduct an analysis of the full costs and benefits of the various sources of electricity generation in the state? The PSC is the independent administrative agency that regulates the public utilities in Maryland.

As such, shouldn’t one of its main responsibilities be to recommend policy changes to support the development of energy sources based on the lowest cost and greatest benefit to the ratepayers?

It would seem that the PSC would not be able to make these recommendations without conducting the aforesaid cost and benefit analyses. I just learned that Maryland is currently importing more than 40% of its electricity, which certainly contributes to rising electricity costs impacting Maryland families and businesses. Another contributing factor is that since 2018 over 6,000 MW of electricity generation in Maryland has been retired while only 1,600 MW in new electricity generation has been added.

There is a bill before the Maryland Legislature (Senate Bill 270 and House Bill 674) that will require the PSC to conduct a full cost and benefit analysis of electricity generation.

If you agree with this bill, you can show support for its passage by contacting the members of the Senate Education, Energy and Environment Committee and asking them for a favorable report. You can also contact the members of the House Environment and Transportation Committee

and ask them for a favorable report. Please take action to protect your pocketbook.

Carol Frazier Ocean Pines

OC setback changes have development impacts

Editor,

I am a local architect with many years of experience working with the Town of Ocean City’s zoning code.

I write in opposition to the recently proposed zoning amendment that would impose a 20-foot setback requirement on residential development in the LC-1 local commercial district.

Public comments by the mayor, city council members, and town officials suggest that requiring residential projects to adhere to “residential setbacks” justifies this change. However, the Town’s zoning structure already differentiates between residential districts. Single-family homes in R-1 require a 20-foot front setback, but the multi-family zoning districts that permit townhouses and condominiums have significantly smaller front yard requirements. Applying a 20-foot standard to multifamily residential projects in LC-1 is inconsistent with the existing framework and risks misrepresenting how residential zoning standards actually function.

The real consequence of this amendment would be the removal of developable land, reducing property value without meaningful public benefit. Even modest increases in setbacks along long stretches of frontage can eliminate thousands of square feet of buildable area, translating diContinued on Page 66

STRs, nonconformity prove sticking points in comp plan

Council OKs first reading of municipal land use plan, updated every 10 years

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(March 6, 2026) A 10-year update of Ocean City’s comprehensive plan inched closer to formal acceptance on Monday, as the City Council passed the first reading of an ordinance to adopt the 2025 planning document.

Introduced in January, the plan has since undergone some changes, most of which address land uses that do not conform to zoning regulations.

“This is the 10-year review and update of the existing 2017 plan as introduced at the January 13 work session and amended further at the February 24 work session,” City Solicitor Heather Stansbury said. “This is before you on first reading because it was tabled a few weeks ago.”

On Feb. 2, after months of review by the city’s planning commission, the council held a public hearing on its comprehensive plan update. However, comments collected from that hearing requested some changes to sections of the document.

Some objected to the plan’s choice of words, as in referencing the “ad-

verse’ impacts of short-term rentals, while others objected to the plan’s proposal to reduce or eliminate the practice of allowing nonconformity, referring to properties and buildings that were legally established under previous zoning regulations but no longer comply with current ordinances.

With those comments in mind, city staff last week presented the council with several proposed edits, eliminating or softening the language associated with the two topics. For example, staff noted that language related to short-term rentals remained in the document, but that additional terminology was included.

“It says they are managing adverse impacts, not saying short-term rentals are adverse impacts,” Council President Matt James said last week.

Council members last week also agreed to keep some language referring to nonconformity, specifically the city’s desire to encourage the reduction of nonconformity when a property is redeveloped.

“It’s not saying you have to do it,” Mayor Rick Meehan added.

Following last week’s discussion, the council agreed to move the ordinance forward to a first reading, which passed in a 6-0 vote Monday.

Pictured, from left, are Grace Center for Maternal & Women’s Health

Director Joann Manole and OC Lady Knights Auxiliary members Ceil Fox, Bernadette Sohn, Barbara Straight, Donna Kiniry, Diane Sparzak and Kimberly Bean.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/

OC Lady Knights raise $7K for Grace Center nonprofit

(March 6, 2026) The Ocean City Lady Knights Auxiliary recently hosted its annual Baby Shower Bingo Luncheon, bringing together community members for an afternoon of fellowship, fun, and charitable giving — all in support of mothers and families in need.

Held at Columbus Hall in Ocean City, the event welcomed guests for lunch and 18 exciting games of bingo, along with raffles and door prizes. Proceeds from the fundraiser directly benefited the Grace Center for Maternal & Women’s Health, a local organization dedicated to supporting women and

families through pregnancy, motherhood, and beyond.

Thanks to the generosity of attendees, sponsors, and donors, the Ocean City Lady Knights Auxiliary proudly presented a donation of $7,500 to the Grace Center during a recent check presentation ceremony.

“Our Baby Bingo Luncheon is one of our most meaningful events of the year,” said Kimberly Bean, event chairwoman of the Ocean City Lady Knights Auxiliary. “It is a beautiful example of how our community comes together to have fun while making a real difference in the lives of mothers and children.”

OBITUARIES

JOE WATERS, JR.

Berlin

Warner Steynen “Joe” Waters, Jr., of Fredericksburg, Va. and Berlin, Md., passed away peacefully on February 26, 2026. A beloved husband, father, and grandfather, he lived courageously with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.

Born to B. Irene and Warner Steynen Waters, Sr., Joe grew up in Linthicum Heights, Md., as the oldest of four children. After graduating from Andover High School, he matriculated at Western Maryland College (now McDaniel) and relished his time on the gridiron as a four-year member of the Green Terror football team. Joe, known in childhood and college as Joedy, made many lifelong

friends at WMC, where he served as president of his fraternity, played lacrosse, participated in the Army ROTC program, and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Economics in 1971.

Following graduation, he was commissioned as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Army and served his country in the Vietnam War. Upon returning home to Maryland, Joe embarked on a 40-year career in banking and earned his M.B.A. from the University of Baltimore. He held leadership roles in commercial lending at First National and Maryland National banks, served as President and CEO of Mellon Bank Delaware, and retired as a senior vice president at BB&T in Ocean City, Md.

Many of Joe’s happiest moments were spent sailing the Chesapeake Bay. His family has many wonderful—and some mishap-filled—memo-

ries of long weekends and summer trips exploring the rivers and creeks of Maryland and Virginia. In the late 1990s, he earned his U.S. Coast Guard Master’s License and started Oxford Sailing Charters on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. He was featured in The Wall Street Journal and Coastal Living for realizing his dream of trading wingtips for dock shoes. Athletics were another passion of Joe’s, both as a participant and spectator. After returning from Vietnam, he played on the semi-professional Carroll County Chargers football team. He was also an avid runner and golfer who took pride in staying fit throughout his life. A lifelong Orioles fan, Joe delighted in watching his O’s play in Memorial Stadium and at Camden Yards. Fall Saturdays were for college football, and Sundays were for cheering on the Ravens. Joe was known for his sarcastic sense of humor and direct communication style. He was a lifelong learner

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Continued from Page 63

rectly into significant losses in market value. Developers respond by offering less for the land, meaning the financial impact falls squarely on current property owners.

If the goal is to influence the character of buildings along major roadways, there are more targeted, design-based approaches that can address aesthetics without arbitrarily reducing property rights. The properties affected are not within the historic district or the downtown OCDC area, where aesthetic oversight is already built into the code.

Zoning changes should be clear, consistent, and grounded in the code as written. This proposal, as discussed publicly, does not meet that standard.

Rick Schoellkopf 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.

OBITUARIES

and reader, spontaneous adventurer, curious conversationalist, and world traveler to destinations including France, Denmark, Greece, Russia, and his favorite Caribbean Island, Bequia. At home, he could be found on the beach, on the porch, or tending to his vegetable garden, a hobby he inherited from his father and passed on to his son.

A quiet supporter of many causes, Joe was a Big Brother in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, served on the board of Atlantic General Hospital, and volunteered for the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. He attended St. John Neumann Catholic Church in Berlin in his later years, and he was a past member of Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church in Severna Park, Md., and Concord Presbyterian Church in Wilmington, Del.

Left to cherish Joe’s memory are his wife of 25 years, Ruth Waters, son Thomas Conor Waters, daughter Elizabeth Waters Hunsinger (Brent), grandson Jackson Waters Hunley, stepdaughter Jessica Rhynalds, and former wife and friend Lois Siler. He is survived by a sister, Nancy McClintock, a brother, William Waters, and several brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews. His parents and a sister, Patricia Norris, preceded him in death.

His family is grateful to the staff of Spring Arbor Cottage of Fredericksburg for their loving care in his final years.

Interment and a celebration of Joe’s life will be held in the spring. Memorial contributions may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, the Alzheimer’s Association, or your favorite charity.

SALVATORE VINCENT CITRANO Selbyville, Del.

Salvatore “Sam” Vincent Citrano, 75, of Selbyville, Delaware died on February 18, 2026.

Born on March 14, 1950 he grew up in Perry Hall Maryland and graduated from The John Carroll High School in 1968. He worked in Demolition for Potts & Callahan in Baltimore and LVI in Denver. He coached lacrosse for many years in Harford County Maryland from rec league through high school and college lacrosse at The Colorado School of Mines. He enjoyed spending the last decade of his life in the lower Delaware and Ocean City area. He was an avid outdoorsman and especially loved dancing and listening to live music.

Sam is survived by his children, Joe Citrano of Berlin, Maryland, Melissa (Citrano) Maloney of Kailua, Hawaii, Son-in-law Brendan Maloney, grandchildren Laina Citrano,

Maggie Maloney and Seamus Maloney, Sister Peggie (Citrano) Ball, Brother-in-law Bob Ball and Brotherin-law Charles Hopkin. He was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Josephine Citrano and his sister Pat (Citrano) Hopkin.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation at t2t.org.

KATHLEEN ANNE HARRINGTON-LARUE

Laurel, Del.

Kathleen Anne Harrington-LaRue was born on June 21, 1952, in DC, and passed away on January 17, 2026, at her home in Laurel, DE surrounded by family. She was a wife, mother, sister, aunt and friend. Her love of birds, helping with scouting, her love of the Civil War and Military Supporter is what she will be remembered most for.

She is preceded in death by her parents James and Anne Harrington, a sister and brother and many pets and birds that she has loved. She is survived by her husband James LaRue, Laurel, DE, her children Mary (Mark) Lewis of Laurel, Robert Harrington of Laurel, Lloyd Harrington of Harrington, Jimmy (Brandie) LaRue of Gambills, MD

and Michael (Jen) LaRue of Odessa, FL. Her grandchildren who called her NANA, Andrew (Grace) McKee, Abigail (Brian) McKee, Dylan Harrington, Savannah Harrington, Ryan DeZarn, Avery LaRue, Morgan LaRue, Madison English, Macyn Lewis, Josephine LaRue, Sophia LaRue and 2 grand dogs Dana and Finn, her beloved Dog Cricket, Nixie and her many birds. She is survived also by her five sisters and five brothers and many nieces and nephews.

Kathy worked for WSSC (designer), Worcester County (inspector) and the Town of Ocean City (inspector and plan reviewer) where she retired in 2023.

A visitation will be held from 2-4 p.m. on March 21, 2026 at Centenary United Methodist Church (Fellowship Hall), 200 West Market Street, Laurel, Delaware 19956. A Celebration of Life service will begin at 4pm. The family requests that you wear bright colors to the memorial service to honor her, and would love to receive cards that share stories and memories you have by knowing Kathy.

In lieu of flowers the family asks for anyone to donate to your local bird sanctuaries, Tunnels to Towers, St. Jude, or your local Boy Scout packs/troops in her honor. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.hsdfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are in the care of the Hannigan, Short, Disharoon Funeral Home in Laurel, Del.

BETTY ROSE KURKA

Ocean City

Betty Rose Kurka was taken by the angels into the arms of Jesus on February 24, 2026, at 4:15 a.m.

She lived a long, wonderful life of 101 years. She was born on February 17, 1925, to White and Eva Tull in Pocomoke City and graduated from Pocomoke High School. She married Carlton “Rip” Kurka, whom she met at the USO in Chincoteague, Va. where he was stationed in the Navy.

She worked at the 5 and 10 cent store in Pocomoke, Moore’s Business Forms in Snow Hill, and is best known for selling tickets for 31 years to ride the boardwalk train in Ocean City. She was a life-long member of the Ocean City Fire Department Women’s Auxiliary, and Atlantic United Methodist Church. She is survived by her three children, Patty Harman, Glenn (Sandy) Kurka and Brad Kurka. She had five grandchildren, eight great grandchildren and four great great grandchildren.

Decatur wins Bayside, advances in playoffs

By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer

(March 6, 2026) Stephen Decatur’s girls varsity basketball team’s season continued this week after winning the Bayside Conference last week.

The Seahawks hosted Northern in the 3A East Region II semifinals on Tuesday, March 3. This 50-27 win moved them to the 3A East Region II

Final on March 5 against South River. The game took place too late to be included in this edition.

The lady Seahawks came out strong hitting the boards with three baskets by Paityn Tyre, two baskets by Maliyah Manuel, one each from Maia Holland, Lila Gunther and Makinley Conway with foul shots from Gunther and Makenzee Purnell. The Seahawks were up 18-11 after one

Seahawks lose in regional semis to South River, 83-47

By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer

(March 6, 2026) Stephen Decatur’s boys basketball team saw its season come to an end in the 3A East Region II semifinals on Monday as South River rolled the Seahawks, 8347.

Prior to this week’s loss, Decatur advanced in the playoffs on Feb. 27 with a close win over Arundel, 52-49. Jonathan Purnell accounted for half of Decatur’s points alone with 26. He had two three-pointers, six from in the box and seven of ten foul shots during the 3A East Region II quarterfinals game against Anne Arundel. Nicky Soares came out firing with two three-pointers in the first quar-

ter, while Purnell added two baskets and Kayden Sharkey added a field goal. Decatur led 14-13 after one quarter.

At the half, Decatur held the edge, 19-17, and Decatur was able to stretch the lead during the third quarter to 35-30.

Though Arundel outscored Decatur in the fourth quarter, the Seahawks were able to hold for the 52-49 win.

The game was the first back for Head Couch BJ Johnson, who said, “I’m just excited to be back, I mean it’s playoffs. Kids came out and played really hard. It’s a great win. Great one tonight the whole team they played together as a team.”

quarter.

In a tight, second quarter both defenses worked hard keeping the score down to Seahawks seven and Northern’s five.

At the half, Decatur led 25-16 over the Patriots.

In the third quarter, Northern was able to cut the lead to seven, but in the fourth quarter the Seahawks took flight, scoring 17 points -- four points

each from Maleah Blake and Manuel and two points from Gunther. Holland scored her second three pointer of the game in the fourth.

Game high scorers were Manuel and Tyre, both contributing 11 points. The win marked the seventh consecutive for Decatur, which held a 15-1 conference record and 20-2 overall heading into the region final Thursday night.

SD’s relay team wins state title

(March 6, 2026) Decatur became state champions in the 200 medley relay at the MPSSAA 3A/2A/1A State Swimming Championship held at the University of Maryland last month.

Surging past the competition to secure that title and a team record were freshman Karis Bagley, sophomore Kate Wanner, junior Kendall Bagley and sophomore Macie Groves. The team also took fourth place and broke a team record in the 400 free relay.

The Decatur team, helmed by Rebecca Farr in her inaugural season, secured its highest combined finish in recent years making 13 trips to the podium with the girls finishing in 4th out of 23 teams (with only 49 points separating 2nd through 4th place) and the men placing 10th out of 37 teams (a remarkable jump from last year’s 20th-place finish.)

Leading the way for the girls, Wanner earned runner-up finishes and a duo of team records in the 100 breastroke and 200 IM.

Other podium finishes for the girls included Karis Bagley, third place in 100 back and fourth in 100 fly (team record); Kendall Bagley, seventh place in both the 200 and 500 free; Finley Helfrich, sixth place in the 500 free and eighth in the 200 IM; and Alice Brailko, Zoe David, Evelyn Eade and Helfrich, eighth place in the 200 free relay. Individually Groves secured a team record in the 100 free and Liv Mongelli and Lily Sperry also made strong contributions to the team.

As for the Decatur boys, junior Vincent Schicchi was the only podium finisher, taking seventh place in both the 200 free and 100 back but, the strength of the boys team is growing with Ewan Betz, Jake Demarest, Parker Gill, Jake Harner, Ilya Karcheuski, Luke Riser, Ben Stallings and Taj Dorn all helping to earn points for the team.

With only one member of this year’s state team graduating and more freshman on the way, the Decatur swim team is poised for a continued climb.