03/19/2026 Bayside Gazette

Mayor, council temporarily relocate

Berlin officials check out of Town Hall and into library during renovation project

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(March 19, 2026) Town of Berlin staff and officials are gearing up to move out of Town Hall as the longawaited structural renovation project begins. Meetings will be relocated to the library and police department

until the work has been completed.

Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall said last week that the next Town Council meeting, scheduled for March 23, and all subsequent meetings until further notice will be held at the Berlin Library, located at 13 Harrison Avenue. Boards and commissions will gather at the Berlin Police Department. The police building is situated at 129 Decatur Street.

The mayor said members and individuals looking to attend commis-

sion and board meetings should enter the police department around the side entrance.

Meeting locations and times are advertised on the Town of Berlin’s official website. Additionally, Tyndall said that those who plan to view the meetings live and in person should check the municipality’s social media channels a few days before to confirm the venue.

“The renovation of Town Hall is

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(March 19, 2026) Former member of the Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors and interim general manager Brett Hill was sentenced to 18 months in

Commission OK’s plans for 12-unit apartment building

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(March 19, 2026) Worcester County officials approved plans for a 12-unit apartment building in West Ocean City, one the developer hopes will soon provide new year-round rental opportunities for working families.

The county’s planning commission on March 5 gave its unanimous ap-

proval to the Park Place Villas project along Route 50 in West Ocean City. The building will be set to the rear of a deep lot that’s already home to developer Todd Ferrante’s Park Place Plaza retail complex.

Ferrante told the planning commission he’s pursuing the project because of a lack of year-round rental housing the area, and that this build-

See YEAR-ROUND Page 4

Year-round housing eyed for site

Continued from Page 3

ing will not include short-term rentals.

“I want to be clear – this is yearround housing,” he said. “This is not for students to come over just in the summertime. This is for people who live and reside, people that work in the Ocean City-Berlin area.”

Plans from architect Keith Iott call for a three-story building with twoand three-bedroom units sized between 900 and 1,200 square feet.

renters in the late summer or early fall.

Hugh Cropper, Ferrante’s attorney, called the project “completely consistent with the comprehensive plan” in regard to locating residential housing near employment centers.

“It will be a service to West Ocean City that people can afford,” he told the planning commission. “They can rent back there, and live and walk to work.”

In recent years, Worcester County did not permit workforce housing as part of a commercial project unless it was physically connected to the building – like second-floor apartments over a ground-level storefront, for example.

Ferrante, however, spent two years challenging that regulation – and won.

The code change affected about 60 properties countywide, most of them located along the West Ocean City commercial corridor.

The county commissioners had denied a similar version of the proposed amendment in March 2024. They ended up passing the amendment after Ferrante narrowed the scope to impact only multifamily-zoned parcels.

Last September, the county commissioners approved his proposed zoning amendment that allows detached multi-family dwellings as an accessory use to a commercial development. It means residential units can be built as detached accessory dwellings on the same commercially zoned lot.

Moving forward, Ferrante said he hopes to break ground on the apartment building in the next few months and will probably start soliciting for

Park Place Plaza opened in 2018. Not only was the complex the new home for Ferrante’s longtime flagship business, Park Place Jewelers, but also included other retail storefronts and a restaurant space. Current tenants include a bank branch, a Realtor’s office, a candy shop, and a Mexican cantina.

Ferrante also serves as an elected member of the Worcester County Board of Education, where he’s been board president since 2023.

Mayor, council move to library

Continued from Page 1

moving forward … everybody is packing up. It’s going to be go, go, go until it’s not,” said Town Administrator Mary Bohlen at last week’s Town Council meeting.

Customer service will also move out of Town Hall and relocate to the Welcome Center.

“They will be open to the public for people to come in and pay their bills,” Bohlen added. “I would advise that if you’re looking for anyone other than customer service, call or email. That will be the easiest way to reach out.”

The rearrangement comes as the municipality prepares to revamp its outdated Town Hall building.

In February, the Town Council awarded the project’s construction contract to Keller Brothers for a total of $3,156,693. This includes a base bid of $2.39 million, a contingency of

$260,000, an elevator at $204,999, and — contingent on the future presentation of an itemized list for action — $300,703 for furniture.

The endeavor was initially expected to cost around $2.5 million. However, unforeseen circumstances have driven the price higher, Tyndall said last month.

“When we originally came up with the amount we thought we would need for Town Hall renovations, that was us throwing something against the board,” he said at the February meeting. “And along the way … we did not anticipate a full HVAC replacement; we did not expect the well failures with the geothermal unit … This bid includes making sure we replace those things.”

The new meeting locations will be advertised on the town’s website and social media accounts.

We want to help you keep that

Hill gets 18 months in tax case

prison last week after a federal jury convicted him on 16 counts of failing to collect and pay employment taxes.

In addition to ordering his imprisonment, U.S. District Court Judge Stephanie A. Gallagher directed Hill to pay approximately $658,485 in restitution to the federal government and to serve three years of supervised probation after his release, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

Hill was indicted on federal charges in August 2022, and last April was found guilty by a federal jury of failing to collect and pay payroll taxes as the chief executive officer of two telecommunications companies.

According to the Department of Justice, Hill, of Parkton and Berlin, owned and operated two telecommunications companies where he was responsible for collecting and paying federal income, Social Security, and Medicare taxes from his employees’ wages, and filing tax returns.

Last spring, a jury found that from the second quarter of 2016 to the fourth quarter of 2018, Hill withheld taxes from his employees’ wages at one or both of his companies but did not file tax returns or pay those taxes over to the government.

The Justice Department said Hill caused the United States a tax loss of over $2 million. Hill’s sentence was lower than the possible maximum penalty of five years for each count of failing to collect and pay over taxes.

“We appreciate that the Court’s sentence was substantially below the established sentencing guidelines,” said Gerald Ruter, Hill’s attorney, in an email statement to the Bayside Gazette last week. “… He will make every effort to make amends for his actions.”

Hill sat as a director on the Ocean Pines board from August 2016 to September 2017. During his tenure, the association leadership was in turmoil and the airing of bitter disputes among board members was common.

It was during this period that the board terminated the employment of general manager Bob Thompson and asked the newly elected board member Hill to take his place in an interim capacity.

Hill proceeded to institute major changes in operations that ultimately resulted in losses of $1.6 million over two years, according to a September 2022 article in Ocean City Today.

He resigned from the board and as general manager in September 2017.

“Hill did not pay ... his companies’ share either,” reads an April 15, 2025, press release from the Justice Department. “Instead of paying the taxes he withheld from his employees’ paychecks, Hill paid himself a salary and paid other expenses.”

SWING INTO SPRING

Berlin eyes room tax rate to pay for parking lot upgrades

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(March 19, 2026) The Town of Berlin appears likely to adopt an ordinance dedicating funds collected from an increase in the hotel room tax to making repairs to municipal and quasi-public parking lots.

At a Town Council meeting last week, Councilmember Jack Orris presented his proposal to create a new budget line item for the Town of Berlin’s parking lot maintenance.

Under Orris’ idea, the municipality will use funds secured through a countywide policy that increased the hotel room tax by 1%. The new fee took effect on Jan. 1 of this year and raised the rental tax rate on all short-term rentals (four months or less) in Worcester County from 5% to 6%.

According to Orris, the new rate for Berlin is projected to yield around $22,000 annually. While the town currently only has one hotel, if more lodging sites are created, that figure “will just grow much quicker,” the councilmember said.

The proposal comes after an update several weeks ago from the town’s parking committee, which reported that they have been unable to reach a consensus on how to pay for about $1

million in lot repairs and maintenance in the downtown business district.

At the Feb. 9 mayor and Town Council meeting where the update was presented, Councilman Steve Green, a member of the parking group, along with Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall and Councilman Jay Knerr, said that the municipality faces over $1 million in infrastructure needs for municipalityowned and town-used lots. Green emphasized that the required work is not just resurfacing but also underlying structural issues.

“We keep throwing ideas out … and we keep running into opposition,” Green said at last month’s meeting. “… We have all tried very hard. We are back to no solution at this point.”

Suggestions have included paid parking, paid parking only during events, increased business license fees in exchange for no paid parking, an arts and entertainment fee on all sales, and voluntary donation campaigns.

However, none of the ideas had received enough support from committee members or business merchants to proceed.

Now, however, the town may begin to move in some sort of direction.

Tyndall and members of the council were receptive to Orris’ hotel room tax recommendation.

“I think it's a great idea,” the mayor said. “We have no way to pay for parking, currently. We truly don’t need the additional money, but we do need it for parking. We just don’t need it blanketly in the general fund.”

Green also pointed to the lease agreement the town entered into with the Esham family for a parcel of property at the corner of West Street and Washington Street. The arrangement began in early 2025 to establish a municipal parking lot to grow the downtown business district and address parking shortages.

Per the lease, rent for years one, two and three is $30,000. The first two years, totaling $60,000, were paid for by funds from the American Rescue Plan Act, also known as the COVID-19 Stimulus Package.

Rent for years four and five will be $35,000 and rent for years six through 10 will increase 3% annually.

Given the ranging parking variables, Green noted that using funds from the hotel room tax increase for parking is “a great idea.”

“We have different situations there,” he added. “We have a lease agreement with the Eshams. I do feel some accountability to make sure that the lease isn’t paid for by our property taxes. So, I like that as a potential revenue …I support the concept … This is tourism paying for tourism, and I really like the concept.”

A draft ordinance is expected to be reviewed at an upcoming meeting of the mayor and Town Council.

Former Clubhouse manager convicted in Pines theft case

Employee found guilty after investigation reveals $13K in missing bank deposits

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(March 19, 2026) A former employee of the Ocean Pines Clubhouse Bar and Grille was convicted of felony theft earlier this month following a 2025 investigation that revealed more than $13,000 in bank deposits had gone missing over several weeks.

On March 6, former clubhouse manager Grayson Ashley Mitchell, 39, of Ocean Pines, was found guilty in Worcester County District Court in Snow Hill after being charged with felony theft of $1,500 - $25,000.

The charge was issued in mid-August of 2025, after establishment management reported multiple deposits had not been completed.

An investigation was initiated by the Ocean Pines Police Department in early July 2025 that discovered the missing funds dated back to May 10, 2025, and totaled $13,715.

Mitchell, who at the time was a manager at the Clubhouse Bar and Grille, was found responsible for the missing deposits and was unable to

provide an explanation to the authorities.

Mitchell was employed by Touch of Italy, the food-service management company overseeing the site’s operations. He was terminated when the allegations surfaced.

Touch of Italy owner Bob Ciprietti said that Mitchell began working for the restaurant group in the beginning of May 2025, when it took over as Ocean Pines’ food vendor. Prior to that, Mitchell was employed at the Clubhouse under the establishment’s former operator.

“We are very happy justice is being served,” Ciprietti told the Bayside Gazette this week. “Ocean Pines detectives and police did a great job assisting with the case and so did the prosecutor … As a company, we are happy and relieved that the message has been sent that we don’t condone this type of behavior … We were disappointed that it came to this, and we gave [Mitchell] every opportunity to come clean and they just couldn’t do it.”

Now that a guilty verdict has been reached, Mitchell is awaiting a sentencing hearing scheduled for May 15 at Worcester County District Court in Snow Hill.

Speed humps planned for Gum Point Road

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(March 19, 2026) In response to resident complaints about speeders, Worcester County will institute a speed hump pilot program on Gum Point Road in Berlin.

Gum Point Road was selected for the pilot program after residents told county officials about drivers exceeding the 30mph speed limit. Many inquired about a traffic-calming solution, according to Worcester County Commissioner Joe Mitrecic, who fielded those complaints.

One Gum Point Road resident already came before the commissioners in person to express her concerns that growth in the neighborhood was leading to traffic problems. She said traffic on the road had “quadrupled” in the last five years, and “nothing is being done.”

“I think we need speed bumps put in on Gum Point Road,” Laura Parker told

the commissioners Oct. 7. “It is worth your life. I like to walk and take my dog for a walk. There are turns on Gum Point Road that I’ve almost been killed on.

“If it takes somebody dying, I guess I’ll be the one,” she added.

Results of a five-month speed study, which the commissioners approved Jan. 6, showed hundreds of Gum Point Road drivers were found to be traveling 10-15 mph over the limit along the 1.5-mile road that flanks Turville Creek north of Ocean Downs.

It also showed approximately 8.5 in 10 drivers in either direction were clocked going about 35 mph, with an average vehicle count of about 524 per day. The data from May and September 2025 came from two existing electronic speed tracking signs on the road.

Compounding the safety issue is that Gum Point Road is narrow, with no

shoulders or sidewalks, and provides just enough room for two cars in either direction. A bridge over Turville Creek also has no shoulder.

Many private driveways also back directly onto the Gum Point and some sight lines are compromised as the roadway curves slightly.

In literal traffic mitigation terms, speed bumps and speed humps are not the same.

Bumps are meant to slow vehicles to a near-stop, around 5 mph. They’re usually abrupt and narrow enough to damage a vehicle’s suspension if struck at higher speeds. That’s why they can pose a danger to emergency response vehicles and can damage snowplows.

Speed humps, on the other hand, are wider and flatter. Designed to slow vehicles to 10-20 mph, they tend not to interfere with emergency vehicles.

They also require signage on both

sides and thermoplastic reflective markings for night visibility and are typically used on roads where the speed limit is 25 mph, according to Worcester County Public Works Director Dallas Baker

Prior to installation, a public advertising period would give the community 30 days to provide comments to the commissioners on proposed speed hump locations. Each speed hump costs approximately $2,500 to install, Baker said in a Feb. 23 internal county memo. Later, a follow-up speed study would be conducted to determine the effectiveness of the speed humps and presented to the commissioners, with recommendations to either continue or abandon the program, he added.

Commissioner Ted Elder (District 4, Central) has said he hopes the county would look into speed humps for other speeding hotspots, like St. Martins Neck Road.

Town fire company has a volunteer problem

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(March 19, 2026) The Berlin Fire Company gave town officials its semiannual update last week, revealing that filling the ranks with volunteers remains a struggle for the department.

Berlin Fire Company President David Fitzgerald and Fire Chief Andrew Grunden attended the Berlin Town Council’s meeting on March 9. The department representatives presented an update on the company's ongoing activities, covering the period from July 1 to Dec. 31, 2025.

According to Grunden, the company’s fire-rescue team responded to 74 in-town calls for service and 126 out-oftown calls for service. Over the past six months, the fire team observed an increase of 58 total calls for service.

“This is the way the cookie crumbles,” Grunden said. “We never know when it's going to be busy or slow.”

During the July to December period, fire-rescue responded to 23 simultaneous calls for service. Simultaneous calls are two or more fire rescue calls occurring at the same time.

“Berlin is famous for having one, two, sometimes three [calls at once],” Grunden noted. “What that means is we get a call, we’re already on a call for service, and another call comes in.”

The fire-rescue response time was four minutes and three seconds, which the fire chief said is within the normal range for Worcester County.

The fire department officials also highlighted their struggle to recruit volunteers.

The Berlin Fire Company provides volunteer emergency fire and EMS services to the Town of Berlin and surrounding areas.

Grunden said that the company has found it hard to recruit individuals to lend their time to community protection. The issue, he said, is that fewer and fewer

people want to give back for free.

“It's a struggle,” he said. “It's a timeconsuming thing. People don’t want to spend a lot of time doing something for free…The amount of time training, all that, continues to be problematic … People have to want to take the time to help our community … a lot of people don’t want to spend a lot of free time for someone they don’t know.”

From July through December, the company’s volunteer manpower totaled 1,286.19 hours for emergency calls and 1,498.25 hours for non-emergency events. The non-emergency time included training, meetings, and fundraisers.

“You see the non-emergency stuff, that outnumbers the emergency calls. All the required training, required CPR … driving, classroom sessions … as the chief was mentioning, it's not only emergency calls, it's all the other things that keep the company running,” Fitzgerald added.

Charity team relaunching this May

(March 19, 2026) In 2017 three local women – Janelle Mulholland, Anna Newton and Susanna Eisenman –brought a new group to our area that supported local charities. After raising over $42,000, the group disbanded during COVID.

We will launch our first meeting to bring this amazing group back to benefit our local charities. Please join us on Wednesday, May 6, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. The meeting will be held at Counterclox/The Vault 104 in downtown Berlin. Appetizers and beverages will be available for sale.

The president noted that the Berlin Fire Company currently has about 50 active volunteers.

The company’s fire-rescue team has also found fundraising challenging. While Worcester County and the Town of Berlin provide financial assistance each year, the department launches projects to garner additional money. However, the team’s most recent annual drive earned less than $2,000, compared with the previous year.

The presentation also included an update from the fire company’s EMS team. From July 1 to Dec. 31, the EMS side responded to 680 in-town calls and 487 out-of-town calls. The group observed an increase of 111 calls in the last six months. Additionally, there were 233 simultaneous calls.

Pines continues to collect leftover storm wreckage

The meetings last for an hour. During that time, three local nonprofits that are selected by the members each has five minutes to tell the group what they do to benefit the Worcester County citizens. All groups presenting must be a certified 501 (c)3 nonprofit and provide services to Worcester County residents.

Each member will vote for their favorite charity of the three presenting. After the votes are tallied, the winner will receive a $100 check from each person in attendance.

Meetings will be scheduled in February, May and October. For this year it will be May 6, 2026, and October 7,

The concept is simple. Each member commits to writing a check for $100 three times during the year. All checks are made out directly to the nonprofit chosen. All donations are tax deductible.

2026. Our goal is to have 100-plus women join our efforts. There is no selling, no collecting, no raffles, just local women getting together to share an hour and give back to the community.

Charities can be nominated over and over again but can only win once per year. If you are passionate about giving back to your community, want to make new friends and see your $100 turn into a significant donation, join us.

For more information, email Debbie Smullen at 100WomenWorcesterCounty@gmail.com or visit www.Facebook.com/100WomenWhoCareInWorce sterCounty. There is a membership link on our Facebook page that will allow you to nominate your top three local non-profits.

(March 19, 2026) Ocean Pines Public Works is continuing cleanup efforts following the February blizzard that heavily impacted the area.

Crews began work along Ocean Parkway and will move to side streets once cleanup on the Parkway is complete. Crews will only pass through each area once, so residents are encouraged to place any storm debris out for collection before crews arrive. Debris should be placed at the curb, not in ditches.

The Public Works Yard is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m., through April 1. The yard will only be open on Wednesdays for the month of April. For questions, contact Public Works at 410-641-7425.

Berlin Arby’s bans students from dining in, mother says

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(March 19, 2026) A policy at an Arby’s restaurant across the street from Stephen Decatur High School permits students to order food but does not allow them to eat inside the establishment, one mom says.

According to Shannon Jones, the parent of a senior at Decatur, her daughter was asked to leave the Arby’s after identifying herself as a student at the nearby high school.

Jones noted that the incident occurred on March 11, a little after school was dismissed. The mother said she told her daughter – whose car was having issues and therefore needed a ride home – to head over to Arby’s and grab food until she could be picked up.

The Arby’s is situated along Ocean Gateway, directly across from Stephen Decatur.

After ordering her meal and sitting down, an employee approached the student and asked her if she attended SDHS, to which she replied that she did. Jones’ daughter was then asked to leave because of a policy prohibiting Decatur students from eating their food inside the restaurant.

“She went inside, ordered a meal from Arby’s,” Jones said of her child’s experience. “As she proceeded to sit down to eat, she said a female employee approached her and asked her if she was a student at Stephen Decatur High School. She replied honestly and said yes. She thought that the employee was having small talk.

“The employee then proceeded to tell her that she had to ask her to leave, that her manager had instructed them to tell Decatur students that they needed to leave, that they could not sit down and eat the food that they had purchased at that establishment.”

Jones maintained that her daughter was alone when the incident took place.

“My daughter was there by herself. She had a backpack on, she was with no group of people, she wasn’t rowdy, she wasn’t loud,” the mother added. “There was no indication that she would have been a problem sitting and eating her food at that location.”

When the child’s parents arrived, a conversation with a manager revealed that no students from SDHS are allowed to dine in at the fast food location, per a policy to limit disruption, an issue prevalent when large groups of kids congregate at the spot.

“They made it very specific to Stephen Decatur High School,” Jones said.

She maintained that the crux of her issue is that the Arby’s location lacks any signage indicating the policy. Jones added that she’s sensitive to the fact that ownership and management are responsible for safeguarding their workers and structures, but that this type of information must be displayed or communicated.

“I get it, every establishment needs to protect its employees,” she said. “They need to set some rules and boundaries. I am all for that. But it needs to be public and

stated for everyone. And I don’t think discriminating against students is necessary.”

When asked about the incident by this publication, the Berlin Arby’s declined to comment.

However, Jordan Black, the location’s general manager, left a comment on Jones’ Facebook post regarding the situation.

“Yes, you are correct, none of the employees should ever approach anyone saying get out,” he wrote. “I will definitely take care of that matter. I saw the complaint you had submitted to Arby’s [corporate] … I do apologize to anyone who upset your daughter. You and your family are always welcome to sit, relax, and enjoy your food.”

Royal Farms, located next to Arby’s, has a similar method to keep student rowdiness and disruption to a minimum. A sign posted on the window mandates that backpacks be left outside and that no more than two unaccompanied children may enter.

“Royal Farms had no problem posting signs about no book bags inside. They did what they needed to do,” Jones said.

As of this week, Arby’s has no signage indicating its no-student policy.

“I would presume a lot of students wouldn’t purchase food there if they were told [the policy] before they spent their hard-earned money there,” Jones said.

Opinion

Fire companies face recruiting problems

Local fire companies have had trouble filling their volunteer rosters for years as the number of people willing and able to serve as volunteer firefighters and EMTs seems to be constantly dwindling.

There are multiple reasons for that. One, as Berlin Fire Chief Andrew Grunden told the mayor and Town Council last week, “A lot of people don’t want to spend a lot of free time for someone they don’t know.”

That’s understandable considering that, according to Gruden and fire company President David Fitzgerald, so much of that time is spent training. According to the website, marylandvolunteer.org, new recruits with no training or experience may have 300 to 4oo hours of training ahead of them in their first year if they want to be a firefighter or EMT.

This training is mandated by the state. There is no such thing as an interested party simply showing up at a fire company, swearing to uphold its standards and then hopping in the truck the next time the alarm sounds.

Joining a company and doing the job requires a serious commitment on the part of the individual and, as Gruden and Fitzgerald noted, fewer people are willing to do that.

But there are also fewer young people here ... period. That’s also a factor in this decline in participation: the population is getting older. Young people aren’t staying close to home like they once did. They aren’t going away to school and returning either, because the cost of housing continues to outpace growth in local wages.

According to the Census Bureau, about 30% of the county’s residents are 65 years of age and up. That’s an increase of 6% since 2010 and is why town governments and the county need to work harder on this problem. And we don’t mean throwing in little financial sweeteners here and there. That isn’t going to do it.

The recruiting difficulties being experienced by all local companies is a worsening problem that’s going to need a major solution and, chances are, that means it’s going to involve major spending.

EDITOR ............................................ Stewart Dobson

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Please send all letters and other editorial submissions to editor@octodaydispatch.com by 5 p.m. Monday.

Mobile gaming bill stalls in Assembly

Ocean Downs Casino among local entities opposing legislation

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(March 19, 2026) Proposed state legislation that would let Maryland’s licensed casinos expand their operations into gambling apps for smartphones appears to be stalling ahead of an important deadline for the 2026 legislative session.

Two bills to enact internet gaming, or “iGaming,” had been pending this session of the General Assembly in Annapolis. The first (SB 761) would authorize an Election Day referendum. A companion bill (SB 885) outlining the nuts-and-bolts procedures for iGaming would only take effect if voters approved the referendum. Both were sponsored by Sen. Ron Watson.

However, Watson (D-23, Prince George’s) on March 13 withdrew the referendum bill. His second procedural bill is still alive. Watson did not respond to a request for comment for this report, and he hasn’t publicly explained why he pulled the bill.

Companion bills on the House side were heard March 5 by the Ways and Means Committee. Lower Shore Del. Wayne Hartman (R-38C, Worcester), who sits on Ways and Means, said he anticipates that iGaming legislation will not pass this session.

Because it’s an election year, Hartman said “nothing

that’s controversial” is likely to pass and noted how the governor’s proposed budget doesn’t include tax increases to generate new revenue.

“I feel pretty confident there’s not an appetite for it this year,” he said of iGaming.

“My concern is, really, next year, after the election, when our deficit continues to grow, what are we going to see to quench the thirst of the majority party here to spend money?”

As legislators continue to find solutions to the state’s $1.5 billion budget shortfall, iGaming could generate $1.3 billion in revenue within six years of implementation, according to a state legislative analysis.

If passed, the enabling legislation would grant Maryland’s six licensed casinos – including Ocean Downs in Berlin – the right to obtain a “mobile gaming license” to create digital versions of games typically found in a physical casino like poker, blackjack, roulette, and baccarat.

It also says casinos could lease their license to established platforms like DraftKings or FanDuel that already run wildly popular gambling apps.

However, Ocean Downs has come out in opposition to the bills. Bobbi Jones, general manager of Ocean Downs, last week said that iGaming would threaten the casino’s 350 jobs and may fuel new gambling addictions.

“We know that if this law

passes, it’s not just going to affect us, but it’s going to affect our community, by taxes, tourism – which we rely on heavily on the Eastern Shore,” she told a Senate committee March 11 in Annapolis.

The Worcester County Commissioners also oppose the iGaming proposal, saying that Ocean Downs is a major tourist draw that can’t afford to lose brick-andmortar gaming customers to screens.

Another upcoming deadline may sideline the iGaming proposal anyway.

Over the course of the Maryland General Assembly’s 90-day session, the milepost known as “Crossover Day” is critical. If a bill doesn’t make it out of committee by then, it falls into legislative purgatory. This year, Crossover Day comes this Monday, March 23.

While any bill isn’t technically dead until the session’s final day (or “Sine Die” in Latin) on April 13, in reality, missing Crossover Day is typically a fatal blow for any bill.

State legislators are considering several bills relating to gambling this session, including an expansion of slot machines onto historical racetrack properties and offtrack betting parlors.

Other bills would beef up enforcement power by state officials to go after illegal offshore gambling sites and would increase funds earmarked for the state’s Problem Gambling Fund.

Easter Market will celebrate spring on Sat., April 4

(March 19, 2026) The Ocean Pines Farmers & Artisans Market will celebrate spring with its annual Easter Market on Saturday, April 4, from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. at White Horse Park.

This event brings together local farmers, makers, and families for a morning of fresh goods and holiday cheer. Shoppers can expect seasonal produce, baked goods, and specialty foods from area growers and producers.

Additionally, shoppers will find handcrafted gifts and artisan wares perfect for Easter baskets.

Flowers, plants, and garden starters, along with pastel décor and a festive, community atmosphere round out the annual Easter Market.

“People love the Easter Market because they fill their market basket with everything for the holiday,” said David Bean, market manager. “You’ll run into neighbors, find something fresh for the table, and maybe pick up a handmade gift for a grandkid, all before lunch.”

The Market’s favorite spring tradition, the Marketplace Egg Trail, also returns.

"It’s the third year we’re tucking colorful eggs into the pathways, alleys, and walkways of White Horse Park Marketplace, and everyone’s invited: young shoppers hunting for their first prize eggs, and the youngat-heart who remember the thrill of a hidden find."

Janice Curtis, market events and happenings coordinator.

Starting at the marketplace entrances, wander past shops, boutiques and galleries, keep your eyes open - eggs turn up where fresh herbs meet handmade wares, where a welltraveled walkway bends, where a ribbon flutter catches the breeze. Just the market doing what it does best, with a springtime scavenger hunt threaded through it.

Bring the market basket, bring your curiosity, and take your time.

The trail is free, the eggs are plentiful, and the reward is a Saturday morning spent weaving through the White Horse Park Marketplace with neighbors and friends.

Friday fire destroys Frontier Town maintenance building

(March 19, 2026) The Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office continues to investigate the cause of a fire that destroyed a maintenance building at Frontier Town.

On March 13, just before 7 p.m., fire and rescue units with the Berlin Fire Company responded to the campground resort for reports of a building fire on the property. Upon arrival, firefighters were met with heavy fire conditions at a maintenance building.

According to the fire company, the blaze completed destroyed one maintenance building and caused damage to several nearby structures. Firefighters were able to contain the fire and prevent further extension to additional facilities.

The Berlin Fire Company was assisted at the scene by personnel from the Ocean City, Ocean Pines, Newark, Showell, Willards, Bishopville and Selbyville fire departments. Officials say no injuries were reported.

“We want our community to know that everyone here is safe and accounted for following an incident at one of our maintenance buildings,” a social media post from Sun Outdoors Frontier Town reads. “Our team, animals, and neighbors are what matter most and we're grateful everyone is okay.”

The company also recognized the first responders who responded to the scene.

“Words cannot fully express how grateful we are,” a second social media post reads. “When our team needed help, our first responders arrived without hesitation, and our community wrapped their arms around us immediately. That is the heart of what makes this place so special.”

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Shelly Wilson/Salt Life C 8 Long Point Court, Ocean Pines4BR/3BA

Bennington/BHHS 1 66th Street #101, Ocean City 2BR/2BA

Reither/Coldwell B 1964 W War Dancer Ln #107, Berlin4BR/4BA

Rob & Anne-Marie Bouse ReMax 562 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines 4BR/2.5BA

T Taaylor Fowlkes/ BHHS Pe 6740 Chatham Lane Millsborroo, DE 3BR/3BA

Landon/Coldwell B venue, Millsbor Annie Lank A roo, DE 3BR/2BA

Landon/Coldwell B 29 Pinehurst Rd, Ocean Pines4BR/2BA

Calendar

Thurs., March 19

EASTERN SHORE SEWISTS

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

LITTLE EXPLORERS: TURTLES

Delmarva Discovery Museum, 2 Market St., Pocomoke City, 10 a.m.-noon. Cost is $10 for children and $5 for adults. Sign up: https://www.delmarvadiscoverycenter.org/delmarvadiscoveryacademy/littleexplorers. 410-957-9933, amanda@delmarvadiscoverycenter.org

PLAY TIME

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

STORY TIME: SPRINGTIME

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

OPENING DAY BASEBALL TALK

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Sportscaster Rick Manick hosts a preview of the 2026 MLB season, sharing his predictions and opinions of the state of baseball. Enjoy some peanuts and Cracker Jack. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

LET’S MAKE … POTTED PAPER CLOVERS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Grab all the luck. All materials provided. Registration required: 410-641-0650, worcesterlibrary.org.

LEGO MASTERS CHALLENGE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30 p.m. Join in for a Lego challenge event. All materials provided. For ages 6-11 years. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

OPEN MIC NIGHT

Art Collective at The Factory, 16 S. Main St., Suite D, Berlin, 6-9 p.m. Join in every third Thursday at Open Mic Night. Calling all poets, comics, and musicians. https://art-collective.square.site

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

Fri., March 20

FANDOM FRIDAY: MYTHOLOGY

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 9 a.m.5 p.m. Drop in any time for crafts, quizzes and discussions about the monthly topic. For ages 12-18 years. 410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org

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

ARTFUL CONNECTIONS: 60 ART CLUB

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., Ocean City, 11 a.m.-12:01 p.m. Join us for our 60+ Art Club. Seeking your input to help form the Art League of Ocean City’s first 60+ art club, “Artful Connections.” Light refreshments served. artleagueofoceancity.org, 410-524-9433

MOVIE MATINEE: 3D EDITION

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Catch a 3D movie you may have missed in the theaters. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

BOOK OF THE MONTH: ‘FIRST LADIES’ BY MARIE BENEDICT AND VICTORIA CHRISTOPHER MURRAY

Oaked at The Globe/Tiki Tim’s, 12 Broad St., Berlin, 2 p.m. Pick up a copy of the book at the Berlin library and then join in at Oaked at the Globe for a lively conversation. 410-641-0650, worcesterlibrary.org

KIDS IN THE KITCHEN!

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 3:30 p.m. Celebrate the start of spring by practicing your kitchen skills to make a colorful, tasty treat. For ages 6-11 years. Registration required: 410-641-0650. worcesterlibrary.org

TRUE CRIME DETECTIVES: COLONIAL CASES

Worcester County Tourism & Economic Development, 107 W. Green St., Snow Hill, 5 p.m. Solve these real colonial cases. Top detectives will receive a prize. Light refreshments provided. Registration required: 410-632-5622. worcesterlibrary.org

Please send calendar items to editor@octodaydispatch.com by 5 p.m. Monday. All community-related activities will be published at no charge.

OPEN MIC WITH SISTA BIG

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 6 p.m. Join in for an inspiring evening of poetry and music and comedy. Performer sign up is firstcome, first-served. Light refreshments. 410-957-0878, worcesterlibrary.org

KNIGHTS 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 21

14TH ANNUAL ST. JOSEPH’S DAY FESTIVAL

St. Andrew’s Hall, 144th Street & Sinepuxent Avenue, Ocean City, 11 a.m.6 p.m. Featuring home-cooked Italian food, music, games, basket raffles, 50-50 drawing, silent auction and Italian specialty items for sale. Admission is free. http://sonsofitalyoceancity.com

BREAKFAST WITH THE EASTER BUNNY

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 8-11 a.m. Menu includes pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage, assorted patties, fruit, orange juice, milk and coffee. Cost is $10 for adults, $6 for ages 4-10 years and free to those 3 years and younger. 410-6417052

WALK WITH A DOC

S. Gate Pond, 11144 Cathell Road, Ocean Pines, 9 a.m. Join a practitioner for a health discussion and then enjoy a walk for the remainder of the hour. Held the third Saturday of each month. 410-6419238, kaylee.hanway@tidalhealth.org

TODDLER EGG HUNT

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Grab your baskets and get ready to hunt down those eggs. For ages 0-5 years. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

IRISH FOLKTALES AND CRAFTS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m.

Learn about Irish folktales and the history behind them, then create a Celtic themed craft while celebrating IrishAmerican Heritage Month. For ages 6-11 years. 410-641-0650, worcesterlibrary.org

EGG HUNT

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11:30 a.m.

Grab your baskets and get ready to hunt down those eggs. For ages 6-11 years. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

FRIED FLOUNDER DINNER Bowen Fellowship Church, 8426

Newark Road, Newark, 4:30 p.m. Fried flounder dinner with green beans, Mac & cheese, cornbread, dessert and beverage. Cost is $10. Carryouts available. Open from 4:30 p.m. until sold out.

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. 410-6417052, https://www.oceanpines.org/web/pages /farmers-artisans-market

Sun., March 22

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT PANCAKE BREAKFAST

The Dough Roller, 606 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 8:30 a.m.-noon. Menu includes pancakes, sausage, coffee, tea, and soda. Cost is $10 for adults and free to kids 8 years and younger. Receive a 30-minute free play card for Marty’s Playland with first 120 adult meals. Proceeds to benefit Ocean City Development Corporation Public Art Program. https://www.ocdc.org, 703-731-6515

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 23

DEMOCRATIC WOMEN’S CLUB MEETING Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 9:30 a.m. Speaker will be Joan Maloof, Professor Emeritus at SU and founder of the OldGrowth Forest Network. Learn what you can do to save old-growth forests. Visitors welcome. https://dwcmd.org

$5 BAG SALE

Atlantic United Methodist Church Thrift Shop, 105 Fourth St., Ocean City, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Debit/credit cards accepted with minimum purchase of $10. Store will be closed March 25 and 26. Reopening on March 27 with everything spring and summer.

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

Calendar

STORY TIME: WELCOME SPRING!

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

GETTING READY FOR SPRING!

Worcester County Tourism & Economic Development, 107 W. Green St., Snow Hill, 2 p.m. Learn how to grow a healthy lawn, care for shrubs and trees, annual and perennial flowers and vegetables on a scale that suits your needs. Presented by Ginny Rosenkranz. 443-783-6164

CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

TidalHealth John H. “Jack” Burbage, Jr. Cancer Center, 9707 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3-4 p.m. Held the fourth Monday of each month. 410-641-2626, nicole.fry@tidalhealth.org

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

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

BRIDGE

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

DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS

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

OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS

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

Tues., March 24

$5 BAG SALE

Atlantic United Methodist Church Thrift Shop, 105 Fourth St., Ocean City, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Debit/credit cards accepted with minimum purchase of $10. Store will be closed March 25 and 26. Reopening on March 27 with everything spring and summer.

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

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, worcesterlibrary.org

CLAY-N-PLAY

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 10:30 a.m. Mold, sculpt, squeeze and stamp with play dough. For ages 0-5 years. 410-9570878, worcesterlibrary.org

STORY TIME

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

EVERYDAY COURAGE: WOMEN ON THE HOME FRONT IN WWII

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. In the 1940s, ordinary women did extraordinary work building ships and airplanes, many of them at the Martin Aircraft Factory in Middle River, Md. 410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org

TEEN DIAMOND PAINTING

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30 p.m. Come craft diamond painting magnets or mini pieces of art to keep or gift. All supplies provided. For ages 12-18 years. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

BRING YOUR OWN PROJECT

Art Collective at The Factory, 16 S. Main St., Suite D, Berlin, 5-7 p.m. Held every other Tuesday. Bring whatever you are working on and come hang out at The Factory. Show up anytime after 5 p.m. https://art-collective.square.site

PAGE ONE, VIRTUAL WRITING GROUP

Learn tips and tricks of writing fiction, nonfiction and poetry while offering critiques and receiving feedback from other writers, 5 p.m. Registration required: 410-632-5622. worcesterlibrary.org

FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP

TidalHealth Crisis Center, 200 E. Vine St., Salisbury, 6:30-8 p.m. Hosted by NAMI Maryland Lower Shore. Held the fourth Tuesday of each month. 443-6146739, namimdls@gmail.com

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. 410-289-4725

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 25

COFFEE & CRAFTS: PAPER WEAVING

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Join in each month for a new craft. Materials provided. Limit 30. 410-5241818, worcesterlibrary.org

COMMUNITY NUTRITION CLASS

TidalHealth Edward Q. Wilgus Community Clinic, 805 E. Church St., Salisbury, 1-2 p.m. Speaker: Bobbi McDonald, MS, Community Health Educator; Topic: “Discover the Power of Nutrition”.

MARYLAND DAY TRIVIA

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Test your knowledge of our state and its history with this trivia contest. Prizes provided by the Friends of the Ocean Pines Library. 410-208-4014, 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

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP

TidalHealth Atlantic, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3-4:30 p.m. Held the fourth Wednesday of each

month. 410-629-6848, lora.pangratz@tidalhealth.org

SERVICE SQUAD

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 3:30 p.m. Jump in to help out with crafts and program prep, or other activities that help the library. Open to students of Worcester County Schools. For ages 12-18 years. Call for information: 410-641-0650.

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

KIWANIS CLUB MEETING

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

CASH BINGO

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

ONGOING EVENTS

TRIP TO SIGHT & SOUND

Trip to Sight & Sound in Lancaster, PA to see “Joshua,” on June 27, at 3 p.m. Cost is $200. Pay by May 15. Cash app: $calvarychurch8607. Sponsored by Calvary United Methodist Church. Contact Rosie Dennis, 443-614-7518.

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

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

20 Bayside Gazette March 19, 2026

Join the Sea Colony East Maintenance Team!

Now hiring high rise condominium/full 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

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

Applicants

ADMIN. ASST. / BOOKKEEPER

Needed for WOC company with excellent organization, written, verbal, and computer skills. Real estate, property management, social media, ad marketing exp. a plus. Part time/flexible hours.

Send resume to: kclark@monogrambuilders.com or Fax to 410-213-1712.

ASSISTANT MANAGER

Artsy Boho - Lifestyle Retail Store on the Boardwalk.

*Full-time, Seasonal, requires flexible schedule. *Retail experience highly preferred.

*Wage based on experience. Email resume at artsyboho1@gmail.com

Contact Nancy to schedule an interview today. 410-213-2658 What have you done for your future today? The Town of Ocean City is Hiring

Tree Service Seeking GROUND LABORERS

Full time, year round. Valid driver’s license required. Pay negotiable based on experience. 443-365-9717

PGN Crab House

29th Street & Coastal Hwy, Now Hiring for • Waitstaff

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

The Tides Inn NOW HIRING NIGHT AUDITOR

This position may be full or part time, seasonal, requires flexible schedule. Experience is preferred but we will train the right person. Apply in person 10am-3pm

3001 N. Baltimore Ave. 2nd Floor Office

JOLLY ROGER

Small Engine Mechanic & Ride Maintenance. (Must have mechanical knowledge) Technical Support & Installation (Entry level with knowledge of network systems)

SEASONAL HELP: Cashiers, Waterpark Attendants, Lifeguards, Ride Operators

Wage based on experience. Benefits available. 410-289-4902

ASSISTANT MANAGER

Full-Time, Year-Round

Must be available for day, night or weekend shifts. If interested apply in person. Open daily, 11:00 a.m. American Legion Post #166, 2308 Philadelphia Avenue For information call 410-289-3166

Hiring Operations

Agent Services Leader KW Delmarva office in OC @ 62nd St. Mon.-Fri., yearround, competitive salary plus paid vacation and health coverage. Submit resume to laurenbunting@kw.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

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

WEST OC

2BR, 1.5BA Townhome. Great location, pool, laundry. Close to it all! $2200/month. Text 443-497-6115.

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

Extended Spring & Summer Stays Avail. Utililites Included CONTACT US AT burgundyinn@gmail.com 410-289-8581

Looking for Roommate to share home, Berlin/ surrounding area. Rent + 1/2 Utilities. Call 443-210-0208

REAL ESTATE

FOR SALE OR RENT

Salt Life West OC 2BR, 1BA Model Mobile Home. Fully furnished. New pool & community BBQ area. Close to beaches, restaurants, nightlife and fishing. Will co-op w/realtor. Call 410-807-2515 for more info.

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

COMMERCIAL

YEARLY RENTAL

319 Robin Drive

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

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 Retail/Office Space 760 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. 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

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

I BUY ALBUMS! 410-430-5349

Classifieds 410-723-6397

CEMETERY PLOT FOR SALE

SUNSET MEMORIAL PARK Plot # 171-C REDUCED! $500 ($1,000 Value!) Rt. 50, Berlin, MD Call 410-641-1734

How well You know me, Yet, You reach for my broken, To lead me from here.

COLON CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

Copy Central of Ocean Pines is honoring Gina Maria Barnes

memory this month raising awareness for colon cancer screenings, collec ng change and raising funds to donate to the comfort fund.

WE ARE ASKING FOR YOUR HELP IN OUR FUNDRAISING EFFORTS

Serving the

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CLASSIFIED AD NETWORK

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MISC. FOR SALE

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REAL ESTATE

We Buy Houses for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-866-541-7929

Advertise in MDDC 410-723-6397

Owners of Copy Central, Linda and Michael Dearing lost their daughter Gina to colon cancer in 2014. Gina Barnes was just 37 years old when she was diagnosed with colon cancer. A wife and mother of three children she was too busy to make me for herself even when she no ced there was a problem. There is the misconcep on that colon cancer is thought of as an older person’s disease. It can a ack anyone under 50 years of age. Gina fought her ba le with courage and poise while serving as a role model for others figh ng their own ba le. Gina’s Comfort Fund was created in her honor to provide comfort and resources to individuals figh ng the ba le. Every day individuals fight cancer. Many of whom have families, jobs and life responsibili es regardless of how the disease and treatments are making them feel physically and emo onally. The fund helps to alleviate some of the stress and financial barriers to those brave individuals ba ling Colon Cancer. Stop in to Copy Central Monday Friday 9 to 5 if you would like to contribute. You will be entered into a drawing for a 16 x 20 full color giclee print donated by a local ar st with a $5 dona on.

Copy Central Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm

410-208-0641

11065 Cathell Road Ocean Pines, MD 21811

PLEASE GET YOUR SCREENINGS