Council opposes SHA’s idea of moving buses to make room for bike path next to sidewalk. — PAGE 3
Former City Councilman Peter Buas and retired Ocean City Police Lt. Jeff Heiser make it a race for abbreviated term on the City Council. Voters will go to the polls on April 21 special election. — PAGE 18
permits cannabis advertising if ads don’t promote its use.
State Highway Admin. plans to test “floating bus stop” project for summer season
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(March 27, 2026) Ocean City officials say they will send a letter opposing a pilot project to convert a portion of Ocean City’s bus lane into a dedicated bike path.
During a biannual update from the Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA), the City Council on Tuesday voted to send a letter of opposition regarding a plan to test the bus lane conversion on Philadelphia Avenue this summer
The council’s opposition to the project was unanimous, with members agreeing that it would pose safety risks to bicyclists and pedestrians as well as motorists and bus users.
ments along the corridor.
“It's one of those things where you look and see how it goes,” Crampton told the OC Today-Dispatch earlier this month. “That’s really going to drive what [the project] looks like.”
While the goal of the project is to protect “vulnerable” road users, including those on bikes and scooters, city leaders this week argued the planned pilot project would create a safety hazard, as it would move municipal buses into the right travel lane and force bus users to cross an active bike lane.
“You don’t expect to get off of a public bus and immediately step into a travel lane with motorized vehicles going 20, 30 mph,”
‘Please do not lose sight that it is a right turn lane for every other car to slow down or to accelerate and move into traffic.’
Public Works Director Hal Adkins
“I think it’s not a very well thought out idea,” Councilman Larry Yates told SHA District 1 Engineer Mark Crampton this week.
As proposed, buses would be moved into the slow lane of the highway to make room for a dedicated bike lane. Buses would then pick up riders from a “floating” bus stop located between the slow lane and the dedicated bike lane.
Beginning this summer, SHA will be testing the project along northbound Philadelphia Avenue between 17th and 26th streets. The plan calls for installing flex posts and temporary “floating” bus stops in the area as the agency studies proposed improve-
Council President Matt James said. “An electric scooter going 20 mph is going to kill a kid … Walking into a travel lane is a disaster waiting to happen.”
Councilman Jake Mitrecic said the project put bus riders in a vulnerable position.
“They're not wearing a seatbelt, they're not strapped in, a lot of them are standing,” he said. “So when we have a bus come to the stop, and the soccer mom with her SUV behind them doesn't, we're creating a lot of vulnerable users that way.”
Mitrecic ultimately argued the project was not a good fit for Ocean City, as the bus lane conversion would reduce travel lanes and add to street congestion. Councilwoman Carol Proctor agreed.
“I think it’s a safety issue,” she said. “You look at this town during the sum-
HLIVE ENTERTAINMENTH AARON HOWELL SUNDAY 3/29 • 2PM JACK BANNON WEDNESDAY 4/1 • 5PM
FRIDAY: BURLEY OAK BEER BATTERED ROCKFISH w/ Hand-Cut Fries $20 STEAMER BOWL Shrimp, Clams, Mussels, Crab Legs, Sausage & Corn $42 SUNDAY: TWO CHESAPEAKE BAY CRABCAKE DINNERS w/ Hand-Cut Fries, Slaw 5 oz. $35
MONDAY: PHILLY CHEESESTEAK w/ Hand-Cut Fries $12
TUESDAY: CRABCAKE COMBOS Smoked Brisket or Chicken w/ a 5 oz. Chesapeake Bay Crabcake and Two Sides $25
WEDNESDAY: CHEF’S CHOICE TWO CHESAPEAKE BAY CRABCAKE DINNERS w/ Hand-Cut Fries, Slaw 5 oz. $35
THURSDAY: FULL RACK OF RIBS w/ Hand-Cut Fries & Slaw $22 BUILD YOUR OWN BURGER w/Hand-Cut Fries $12
OC planning group gives proposal the greenlight, will now go before City Council
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(March 27, 2026) The operator of resort-based escape rooms will seek the City Council’s approval to open another facility at the corner of Coastal Highway and 138th Street.
On March 17, Maze Game LLC principals Asiya Abdrakhmanova and Ekaterina Golub came before the Ocean City Planning Commission to request conditional use approval to open another escape room at the Bayside Plaza Shopping Center.
In a unanimous vote, commission members agreed to forward a favorable recommendation to the mayor
and City Council, but expressed their desires to remove escape rooms as a conditional use in commercial districts.
“This is really cumbersome for a small business,” Commissioner Palmer Gillis said.
During a public hearing last Tuesday, Ocean City Zoning Analyst Chase Phillips presented the commission with the conditional use request. He noted that escape rooms –a form of indoor amusement – were authorized under conditional uses and would require the approval of the Ocean City Council.
‘In other words, the code does not recognize escape rooms specifically, but we know that it is a form of indoor amusement.’
“In other words, the code does not recognize escape rooms specifically, but we know that it is a form of indoor amusement,” he explained. “Therefore, the planning commission, and the mayor and City Council, have the ability to consider it in keeping with the other types of uses permitted in the LC-1 district.”
Phillips said
Ocean City Zoning Analyst Chase Phillips
Maze Games has submitted a proposed layout and business plan for the new location, to be located within one of the shopping center’s units. He said the change in business from a furniture store to an escape room would not increase the demand for
parking.
“The parking requirement for this use … states that this type of use would require one space per five persons of rated capacity …,” he told the commission. “This has less demand for parking.”
Phillips added that that staff supported the conditional use request, with some recommendations. Those include that the recommended games are appropriate for families, that there are no locking mechanisms on interior doors, that all waivers are in place, and that video monitors are installed and in use within the escape rooms during business hours.
Golub told the commission last week that the escape rooms being proposed include two themes – “Area 51” and “Final Hour.” Abdrakhmanova added that the new location would differ from the company’s operation on 80th Street, which she said was geared more toward families.
“It was a great success,” she said. “We don’t want to change those rooms. That’s why we’re looking for new ones.”
With that said, the commission last week voted unanimously to forward the conditional use request to the City Council with a favorable recommendation. Commission members also asked that staff consider eliminating escape rooms, and other amusements, as a conditional use in commercial zoning.
“I don’t see any sense in having this as a conditional use,” Gillis said. “I don’t see any sense in having miniature golf as a conditional use. I do see a sense of having a conditional use for converting commercial to residential.”
Planning and Community Development Director George Bendler said changes to allow escape rooms and other operations as permitted uses in LC-1 zones would be presented to the City Council for discussion and approval.
“It’s one of the things we definitely want to change,” he said.
Wow—this stunning 2BR/2.5BA waterfront condo with a
WATERFRONT 2 BR, 2.5 BA CONDO with BOAT SLIP
201 S HERON DR #8A HARBOUR CLUB • OCEAN CITY $499,000
MDWO2036148
Wednesday, April 1st, 2026 6:00 - 8:00pm
Waterman’s Seafood Company in West Ocean City, 2nd Floor
RSVP to neil@travelwithoasis.com admin@travelwithoasis.com or 410-213-9330
mer months, we have over 400,000 people here. It gets extremely congested, and you’re going to have a bus now stopping in the lane that has a green light. The car behind them is going to think they are going to go, and they're going to have to stop.”
With council members voicing objection, a motion to send an opposition letter to the state passed 5-0 vote, with Councilman John Gehrig absent.
“It is not only a bus discussion, bike discussion, scooter discussion,” Public Works Director Hal Adkins concluded. “Please do not lose sight that it is a right turn lane for every other car to slow down or to accelerate and move into traffic. I don’t know how they’re ever going to be able to do that if it’s all of a sudden flex-post-off, or permanently closed off as a bike lane.”
The council on Tuesday also agreed to express their opposition to an SHA project involving an unmarked crosswalk at 5th Street and Baltimore Avenue, the site of a pedestrian fatality that occurred last year. While the plan is to install a marked crossing on the north side of the intersection, city leaders are seeking SHA’s reconsideration.
“I feel for the situation, but adding a crosswalk isn’t going to bring the person back,” Council Secretary Will Savage said. “All they would have to do is walk south to the crosswalk [there] and cross like every other intersection. It seems to me like a feelgood measure. I just don’t think it’s necessary.”
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(March 27, 2026) A commercial landlord is continuing his legal fight to host a retail cannabis dispensary in Ocean City by appealing his case to Maryland’s second-highest court.
Mike Ramadan filed his appeal with the Appellate Court of Maryland on Feb. 18, and the court issued an order to proceed on March 19. That means the case won’t be diverted to mediation and won’t be dismissed for procedural errors.
“We believe that it’s the right thing to do,” he told OC Today-Dispatch. “We know that’s our right. The law is the law. We’re just following the law. We went through all the procedures, all the steps. We went to the court. Now we’re going to the appeals court because we believe strongly we have a
legitimate case.”
The case hinges on a 2024 state law that prohibits municipalities from enacting zoning ordinances that are more restrictive to dispensaries than to alcohol retailers.
Its outcome could have broader implications for cannabis regulation in Maryland because it tests the legal limits of a municipality’s authority to block cannabis businesses through zoning.
Ramadan had been in partnership with Shreif Shata, whom the state in March 2024 granted a conditional cannabis dispensary license for Worcester County. By that summer, Shata and Ramadan had inked a sixyear lease to open the “Green Marlin” dispensary in the Phillips Square shopping center at 21st Street, which Ramadan controls.
Their proposal was rejected by both the resort’s planning department and its Board of Zoning appeals. The town determined a cannabis dispensary in the resort would violate zoning law regarding proximity to residential areas and public parks.
The partners then appealed the BZA ruling in Worcester County Circuit Court – but Shata eventually dropped out of the case.
As a result, Judge Beau Oglesby on Jan. 16 dismissed the case, saying without Shata’s involvement, Ramadan was just a landlord and not an “aggrieved party” who was adversely affected by the BZA ruling.
However, Ramadan’s attorney Demetrios Kaouris disputes this, saying that Ramadan as the landlord was aggrieved because he had initiated the permit process with the city in the first place.
wants to hear.
“The problem is, if we let them win, the city, they just set a precedent,” Ramadan said. “I know we’re going to win, and in the future, at least I’ll have the option and the ability to put one in this shopping center - and that was my point.”
When reached for comment, Ocean City’s attorney, Bruce F. Bright, said, “The City agrees fully with the Circuit Court’s ruling and will vigorously defend Phillips Plaza’s appeal, which we believe is without valid basis.”
Separately, Ramadan is also pursuing legal action against his former business associate, Shata.
The appeal will be decided by the seven-member appellate court, which will review whether the lower court’s conclusion was correct. Because appeals at this level are complex, it could take months before anyone sets foot in a courtroom to argue the case.
Even if Ramadan wins, the Town of Ocean City as the respondent could then appeal to the state’s highest court, the Supreme Court of Maryland, a body that picks which cases it
Through his company, Phillips Plaza LLC, Ramadan filed a breach of contract suit against Shata’s company, Guru Ventures LLC, on March 19. seeking to recover roughly $350,000 in damages, including legal fees and site survey fees, engineering and architectural costs, and a personal loan made to Shata.
Because Shata still has an active conditional license, he can pursue a dispensary elsewhere in Worcester County, if he wishes. That conditional license wouldn’t expire until Guru Ventures becomes an operational licensee, according to the Maryland Cannabis Administration.
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(March 27, 2026) Property owners are pushing back on a company’s plans to build a cable landing station in West Ocean City, despite assurances from company leadership that the facility is not a data center.
Last October, the City Council entered into a 25-year lease agreement with Globalinx to land transatlantic fiber optic cables at the municipality’s airport along Stephen Decatur Highway.
Now, the company reports it has plans to construct a 24,000-square-foot cable landing station nearby.
“We want to be good stewards of the land, and we are there to offer something, not to take …,” said Greg Twitt, CEO of Globalinx. “We are not a data center.”
Last year, the Town of Ocean City received a proposal from Globalinx to bring a transatlantic cable system – used by Amazon – from the southwest coast of Ireland to a landing site at the municipal airport. In return, Ocean City would receive $800,000 over the course of the 25-year lease, plus another $200,000 per cable for any additional cables that are installed.
“It is simply a vault at the airport where the cable comes through,” Ocean City Public Works Director Hal Adkins said in an interview last week.
However, local leaders and residents are now learning of the company’s plans to install a facility nearby, one that would allow data to pass through to landbased networks. State property records show Globalinx has purchased two parcels on Stephen Decatur Highway – totaling roughly five acres – in an area immediately south of Snug Harbor Road and Bethany United Methodist Church.
“We have a lot of questions and have not been given a lot of answers at this point,” Worcester County Chief
Company Globalinx plans to construct a cable landing station on Route 611, with some residents and county officials concerned the facility is too similar to a data center. Those opposed have raised questions related to noise generation and the environment.
Administrative Officer Weston Young told the OC Today-Dispatch. “And we have to try to figure out if there’s a right to be concerned.”
Last week, neighboring property owners, including those in Snug Harbor, Assateague Pointe, Landings at Bayside and those representing the neighboring church, issued a letter to the Worcester County Commissioners detailing their opposition to the proposed landing station.
The coalition voiced its concerns over what members say is a data center, and the impacts it could have on energy use, the environment, quality of life and other issues.
“The Community Coalition of Impacted Property Owners formally submits this memorandum to express our strenuous opposition to the Globalinx data center project as currently proposed,” the letter reads.
“While presented as ‘economic development,’ the scale of this 24,000square-foot, 5-megawatt facility represents a high-intensity industrial utility that poses significant risks to the coastal environment and the financial well-being of Worcester County residents.”
Specifically, the coalition argued the facility would increase energy use, requiring “massive grid upgrades.” They also raised concerns over noise and light pollution, water consumption, and the lack of transparency.
“The County Commissioners have frequently advocated for ‘local control’ against state overreach,” the letter reads. “We expect that same control to be exercised now to protect constituents rather than facilitate developers. A five-minute window during a Planning Commission meeting is insufficient for a project of this scale, in order to address the community concerns and disseminate information.”
When reached for comment last week, Twitt reiterated that the facility in question is not a data center, but a connection point for subsea cables. Those fiber optic lines, he added, will be used by providers to improve internet connections.
“They come into that facility and take that subsea cable and distribute it throughout the community and other parts of the country,” he explained, adding that the cables would remain underground and would be brought from the airport to the new facility through horizontal directional drilling.
Twitt said the facility being proposed would feature cable equipment and cabinets inside and backup generators outside, which he said would only be used during power outages. He added that water usage would be minimal, and that the building would have no more than five employees onsite at any given time.
“If you drove past it, it would look like a normal building,” he said, “like a warehouse or office building.”
Twitt also acknowledged the community’s concerns over power usage. While noting that the initial power demand would be low, it would increase gradually
over time. He said the company will be working with Choptank to upgrade two substations in the Worcester County area.
However, once finished, Twitt said the cable landing station would be beneficial to the community, as it could attract more providers and ultimately improve pricing. With the proper approvals, he said the facility would be completed halfway through next year.
“It won’t be disruptive in terms of the build …,” he said. “It’s not a big build.”
Young said Globalinx has submitted plans to the county’s technical review committee, which he said had questions about water usage, sewer capacity and noise, to name a few. Bob Mitchell, the county’s director of environmental programs, added that staff have since held an online meeting with company representatives to get answers.
“We did note the public’s interest in this project and its impact on the surrounding community,” he said in an email this week. “They are considering conducting a public meeting to explain the project to the community at the Berlin Library or another public facility. We are sending correspondence back to the company to request additional clarifications on remaining questions.”
Commissioner Eric Fiori, who represents the district in which the facility will be located, echoed his constituents’ concerns. While he acknowledged the facility does not reach the scale of a typical data center, he argued it would still have negative impacts.
“To-ma-to, to-mah-to,” he said. “It’s still the same vegetable.”
Fiori not only shared concerns over utility usage and noise generation but questioned if such a facility was even allowed in the district per the county’s zoning code, which he said addressed cabling but not data centers.
“This is the wrong spot for this,” he said. “It’s on Route 611 in a mostly residential district.”
Fiori said the county awaits the company’s written responses to staff’s questions. In the meantime, nearby residents are seeking a pause in the permitting process until an environmental and rate impact study can be completed.
The coalition also asked that alternative sites be evaluated, and that a town hall meeting be scheduled with Globalinx and its partners.
“Development must be planned carefully to ensure that it will serve the community,” the coalition’s letter reads. “Currently the members of this coalition feel that there has been a lack of information and transparency regarding this development, that without further information, appears to only benefit Globalinx.”
For his part, Twitt said Globalinx is willing to meet with community members. He said the company has also created a webpage, where the public can view facts about the project and submit any questions and concerns they may have.
“It’s important that we have that relationship with the community,” he said.
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(March 27, 2026) Worcester County officials are asking Gov. Wes Moore to protect Maryland’s disability safety net after a Stockton woman shared how state-mandated pay cuts could force her brothers’ caregivers to quit.
Shana Farlow, 48, is able to hire a team of around-the-clock nurses who care for her disabled adult brothers, thanks to funding provided by the state’s Developmental Disabilities Administration, or DDA.
With the state facing a $1.5 billion dollar revenue shortfall, the governor’s budget would slash $150 million from the Developmental Disability Administration.
While a Senate budget committee this week voted to restore $23.1 million of that, it still means $126.9 million in cuts are on the table for the state agency that provides vital home-based care services to the disabled.
The cuts would include reducing state reimbursement rates that support caregiver wages from about $37 an hour to $23, a nearly 40% drop.
A nurse herself, Farlow worries that her brother’s caregivers – some of whom have been with her family for years – might seek other jobs if the budget cuts reduce their pay.
“It’s hard. Once we find people, we don’t have a big turnover rate,” she said. “I was fighting for Andrew and Nathan, but I was also fighting for their wonderful staff.”
Farlow’s brothers Andrew Holland, 43, and Nathan Holland, 34, who live next door to her, both have leukodystrophy. The rare genetic brain disorder leads to a gradual loss of mobility and cognitive function. Those diagnosed often require constant medical care.
After her mother died, instead of putting her brothers in a care facility or a group home, she picked another option provided by the state: “selfdirected” care, or the ability to hire her own medical staff directly.
Farlow herself tracks down potential RNs, and her request for services ultimately goes through a nonprofit that makes sure those nurses get paid. They also have a case manager who’s a liaison between her family and DDA.
Each brother gets a budget of $180,000 to pay for care – an amount “they don’t even come close to,” Shana said – and the money goes to pay the support broker and her nursing staff, or can be used to pay for coursework and certifications.
“It costs the state way less to keep them at home. The state only pays for the staff, that’s it,” she added.
That “self-direction” program is a big part of the governor’s budget math. According to the state Department of Health, the number of families who opted for self-direction surged over a four-year period, from 1,618 in 2021 to 3,632 in 2024.
As participation grew, each new enrollee added to ongoing service costs, and those obligations eventually outpaced available funding. The state claims this is one of the reasons that DDA has fallen into a $736 million multi-year funding gap.
For Worcester County officials, it was Commissioner Caryn Abbott who brought the budgetary issue to their attention, after she saw Farlow’s updates about her brothers posted to social media.
Abbott (District 1, Southern), a nurse by training, said she was moved by Farlow’s efforts to advocate for her brothers’ care despite feeling overwhelmed.
“As a nurse, I have cared for some of these patients,” she said, “and it’s just heartbreaking for me, when they’re not looking inside the agency at all. They’re just going to cut it from the beneficiaries, the patients.”
Home healthcare RNs and CNAs are hard enough to come by on the
rural Lower Shore, Abbott added, and asking them to work for $23 an hour would be a tough sell. “For $20 an hour, as an RN, you would have to do this out of the kindness of your heart,” she said.
The commissioners voted unanimously last week to write Gov. Moore, urging him to restore essential DDA funding “for Worcester County’s most vulnerable residents.”
“Maryland has long been recognized for its commitment to protecting and supporting residents with disabilities,” Commission President Ted Elder said in a March 13 letter. “Restoring DDA funding will ensure the continuation of the very services that Marylanders with developmental disabilities need to live with dignity, security, and opportunity. Your support will make this possible.”
For now, Shana Farlow worries that her brothers’ future, and that of their nurses, is being “held hostage” until the state’s April 6 budget deadline.
“It’s just taken its toll on me so bad. I’m a fighter, but I don’t know how to continue to fight this,” she said. “You have to rely on the government, and it sucks. They give it to you, but they can take it away just as fast. I wish we didn’t have to rely on them, but we do.”
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(March 27, 2026) A “No Kings” protest will return to Ocean City this weekend, months after last year’s event attracted an estimated 2,000 people to the Boardwalk.
The spring rally – sponsored by the Democratic Women’s Club of Worcester County, Indivisible Worcester Maryland and the Democratic Club of Worcester County – will be one of more than 3,000 No Kings demonstrations taking place nationwide on March 28.
Organizers say the event will feature a march – which will go from the inlet tram station to the Firefighters Memorial and back – and a speech from Pocomoke Mayor Todd Nock. Worcester County Democratic Club President Charles Tarr will be the
master of ceremonies, and Worcester County Democratic Central Committee Chair Dr. Roxie Dennis will lead the crowd in songs and chants.
The No Kings demonstration will be the second event of its kind held on the Boardwalk. The October rally attracted attendees coming from across the peninsula, as well as the western shore, according to organizers.
“Indications are that this protest may be larger,” a news release from the local sponsors reads. “Demonstrators are expected to obey all laws, cooperate with the police, and remain non-violent at all times, as they have done at all previous events supported by these three organizations.”
Ocean City Police Department Deputy Communications Manager Ashley Miller said the agency will be fully staffed heading into the weekend
event. However, she noted that prior events have not caused issues for the Town of Ocean City.
“With it being a spring weekend, we will have a full complement of officers on duty throughout the town,” she said in an email this week. “At this time, there is no indication that the No Kings Rally would be large enough to disrupt traffic. There have been several demonstrations over the last year, and the turnouts have been relatively small and peaceful on the Boardwalk.”
Organized by the national coalition group Indivisible, the No Kings rallies protest President Donald Trump’s policies and the perceived authoritarian actions of his administration. The first nationwide rally was held on Trump’s birthday last June, with a second rally held on Oct. 18.
This year, the Ocean City event will
be held Saturday, beginning at noon. "Let our community show up in solidarity and mutual love for our country," Linda Linzey, a member of Indivisible Worcester and the Democratic Women’s Club, said in a news release. "We the people are responsible for the strength and survival of democracy. Join us on March 28 and let’s help make No Kings 3 the largest single-day U. S. protest ever.”
A member of both Indivisible Worcester and the Democratic Women’s Club, Tish Michel added, “Why are we protesting? So many reasons! Because we are in yet another war without Congressional approval, the cost of living is increasing while Republicans hand massive giveaways to billionaires and corrupt politicians, environmental protection and healthcare are gutted when families need them most. They threaten to overturn elections, while they deport law-abiding immigrants and murder U. S. citizens who object.”
While No Kings rallies will be held in Ocean City and in nearby communities, it appears a counter-protest, called the “Pro-ICE Walk,” will also be held in Salisbury at the same time.
“We’re showing up for border security, immigration enforcement, and protecting our country,” a Facebook post reads. “Show up. Be seen. Be heard. Make it loud. Make it clear.”
Lakeside clubhouse with shaded verandas and game room
Resort-style pool with lazy river, splash pad, and bath house
Tennis and pickleball courts
Fitness center with yoga room
Fishing pier
Walking trails
Dog park
The OC Lions’ Leo Club recently set up a lemonade stand at the District 22B meeting to support Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. Pictured are Caniya Smith, Vice President Niki Chen, Secretary Scarlett Gonzalez-Cano, President Ivy Chen, and Leo Club’s Lemonade Fundraising Co-Chairs Macey Humphress and Julia Park.
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(March 27, 2026) Two candidates will go head-to-head in Ocean City next month in a special election to fill a vacant seat on the City Council.
With the filing deadline passed, the City Council on Tuesday voted to approve Peter Buas and Jeff Heiser as council candidates in the April 21 special election. The top vote-getter will fill a vacancy left by former councilman Tony DeLuca’s resignation.
“There is one council seat available, and we had two candidates register early on – Peter Buas and Jeff Heiser,” City Clerk Diana Chavis told the council this week. “The deadline was close of business yesterday. There were no new candidates that filed. The candidates that did file provided all necessary documentation, paid to do so, and they are confirmed as Ocean City registered voters.”
In February, days after his residency was publicly challenged in a special meeting, DeLuca stepped down from the dais, setting in motion a 90-day window to fill the vacancy through a special election. In the weeks that followed, both Buas, a local attorney and former councilman, and Heiser, a retired Ocean City Police Department officer, declared their intentions to run for the open seat.
Buas’s foray into municipal politics began in 2020, when he secured the most votes in the November election to gain a seat on the council. In 2024, he faced off against incumbent Rick Meehan in the first contested mayoral election in six years and came up 192 votes short.
Buas will be challenged by Heiser, who spent two-and-a-half decades working his way up through the ranks of the Ocean City Police Department before retiring as lieutenant in July 2024. Husband of Worcester County State’s Attorney Kris Heiser, he currently teaches part-time at the Eastern Shore Criminal Justice Academy.
With a filing deadline of March 23, the City Council this week voted 5-0, with Councilman John Gehrig absent, to approve the two council candidates. This year’s special election will be held Tuesday, April 21 in the Dockside Exhibit Hall of the Ocean City convention center, with polls opening at 7 a.m. and closing at 8 p.m.
The winner will serve the two years remaining on DeLuca’s four-year term.
In addition to the special election, the biennial municipal election will be held Nov. 3. This year, the mayor’s seat and three council seats currently held by Matt James, Carol Proctor and Will Savage will be up for grabs. So far, Ocean City residents Billy Apostolou and Wayne Johnson have filed to run for the council positions.
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(March 27, 2026) Ocean City leaders gave their blessing this week to proposed changes related to outdoor displays along the Boardwalk.
With a favorable recommendation from the Ocean City Planning Commission, the City Council on Tuesday voted to advance several amendments involving outdoor displays to a first reading.
In addition to changing the annual permitting process, the proposed ordinance would amend some display standards for retailers, restaurants, hotels and amusements fronting the Boardwalk.
“We really tried to capture what we’ve been missing in the code,” Ocean City Planning and Community Development Director George
Bendler said.
During this week’s work session, Bendler told council members that the planning commission had attempted to rewrite its outdoor display code last spring, but that the mayor and City Council ultimately directed staff to enforce the rules that are already in place and to return to the planning commission for a public hearing at the conclusion of the summer season.
Bendler said that throughout the summer the city recorded 103 violations and 43 citations. He said staff also followed up with letters to Boardwalk merchants, sharing the city’s intent to hold a public hearing on proposed changes, and meetings with Ocean City Development Corporation’s (OCDC) Boardwalk Committee.
“So it took a lot of stakeholder information to develop this ordinance in front of you,” he said, “and we really tried to touch on the right things to do to make this a success today.”
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 display permit, he said the code would also remove the OCDC Boardwalk Committee from the review process.
“It feels redundant at this point and slows the process down,” OCDC Executive Director Zach Bankert told council members this week.
Bendler said officials also recommended 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 when not in operation.
“It can’t just stay out there,” 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.
Bendler also noted that a menu board or menu box would now be permitted at such establishments. With the input of OCDC, the planning commissioner earlier this month agreed to allow those boards to be a maximum of nine square feet.
“One thing we did add, and we thought was a nice need for the restaurants, we didn’t have anything that talked about menu boards or menu boxes,” he said. “This will permit a nine-square-foot menu board … to be displayed for the business.”
Bendler 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.
After further discussion, the council voted 5-0, with Councilman John Gehrig absent, to move the proposed changes to a first reading. However, council members asked staff to improve the definition of feather flags.
$5.50
$10.99
$10.99 1/2-Lb. Steamed Shrimp
$12.99 Steamed Mussels
$22.99 2 Dozen Steamed Clams (Mussel Style Add $2)
SUNDAY~ALL DAY:
40% Off Entrees
MONDAY~4 P.M.: 40% Off Entrees
TUESDAY~ALL DAY:
$3 Off Margaritas, 1/2-Off Tacos, Quesadillas, Nachos & More
WEDNESDAY~4 P.M.: ITALIAN NIGHT Lasagna & Build Your Own Pasta
THURSDAY~3 P.M.:
$23.99 AYCE Ribs & Steamed Shrimp
FRIDAY~ALL DAY: Oyster Frenzy
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(March 27, 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 that was initiated by the Ocean Pines Police Department in early July 2025 revealed that 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 operating company.
“We are very happy justice is being served,” Ciprietti said last 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.
A disorderly conduct call led to drug possession charges last weekend.
On March 22, at approximately 1:23 a.m., Ocean City police received a disorderly conduct call from a bar trying to remove an individual from the property’s patio area. As the man, Levi Hayman, 60, of Salisbury, was leaving the scene, he stumbled into a parked vehicle.
A search of Hayman on the scene found a small plastic bag containing cocaine and an orange pill with a “Tesla” logo printed on it. The pill was determined to be MDMA, most commonly referred to as ecstasy.
Hayman is charged with two counts of possession of a controlled dangerous substance-not cannabis and intoxicated endangerment.
Following an investigation, a local man has been charged with assault and sex abuse offenses.
On March 23, the Worcester County Child Advocacy Center alerted the Ocean City Police Department to a child sexual assault case. The 4-year-old girl’s mother had reported the assault by her daughter’s biological father.
The young girl had complained to
her mother about pain in and around her rectal area.
Injuries were confirmed by the mother and were a result of the girl’s father inappropriately touching her.
The police investigation found the girl’s father had taken the juvenile to his place of employment on March 19 around 3:30 p.m.
The woman picked up her daughter about 9:30 p.m. and complained of pain in her private parts caused by the father.
After a Sexual Assault Forensic Exam (SAFE) at the Worcester County Child Advocacy Center, medical personnel located injuries consistent with a sexual assault. The juvenile told personnel what had transpired and said her father hurts her a lot.
Police located Rigoberto MartinezOnofre, 44, of Ocean City, driving on March 23 around 4 p.m. and discovered his driving privileges had been revoked for five years. MartinezOnofre denied doing anything illegal with his daughter and was performing routine “hygienic care-taking duties,” according to the statement of probably cause.
After reviewing all the evidence, Martinez-Onofre was charged with second-degree assault, four sexual abuse of a juvenile offenses, and traffic offenses.
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(March 27, 2026) While calls for service were up, data from the Ocean City Police Department revealed that the number of traffic citations, traffic warnings and DUI arrests decreased throughout the St. Patrick’s Day weekend.
A review of police statistics from Friday, March 13 through Monday, March 16 shows 621 service calls were recorded within the police department, representing an 11% increase from the year prior.
Officer-initiated calls had increased from the two years prior –468 calls in 2026 when compared to 405 calls in 2024 and 408 calls in 2025 – while citizen-initiated calls for service landed somewhere in between at 153, or more than 148 calls recorded in 2025 but less than the 170 calls recorded in 2024.
Available Demoflush numbers –which uses wastewater flow to determine population – were slightly lower when compared to prior St. Patrick’s Day weekends. Anecdotally, however, OCPD Deputy Communications Manager Ashley Miller reported larger-than-average crowds during Saturday’s festivities.
“The Ocean City Police Depart-
See TRAFFIC Page 24
Continued from Page 23
ment had a full complement of police personnel and our Police Auxiliary Officer (volunteers) on hand during the parade and for the remainder of the day,” she said in a statement.
“The St. Patrick’s Day Parade is like the unofficial kick-off for the Town of Ocean City. The town comes back to life as we start welcoming visitors, and everyone gets out and about.
“Walking along the parade route, it was evident that this was one of the largest parades to date. Many community members and visitors lined the streets to celebrate.”
While service calls increased, police data show the number of traffic stops decreased from 165 in 2024 and 152 last year to 97 this year.
There was also a notable decline in traffic enforcement, with the number of traffic citations decreasing from 90 the year prior to 70 this year and the number of traffic warnings decreasing from 214 to 146. Crash data showed two accidents throughout the weekend.
The police department also recorded 19 total arrests throughout the weekend. While no weapons arrests were made, the agency did have one drug arrest and four DUI arrests, down from six the previous two years.
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(March 27, 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 March 9, 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 hotel rooms and 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 municipality-owned 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 a year. 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.”
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(March 27, 2026) The Berlin Town Council on Monday approved reallocating $450,000 in fiscal year 2026 street capital funding to address deteriorating conditions on Henry’s Mill Drive, now considered the “worst roadway” in the Town of Berlin.
Jimmy Charles, the municipality’s public works director, told the council Monday night that sections of the road became impassable after cold weather caused the pavement to buckle.
“Back in February, a portion of two sections of the road on Henry’s Mill Drive after the thaw buckled up, deteriorated, and created an impassable,” Charles said.
Now, the town will turn its sights on a comprehensive repair effort, primarily consisting of milling and resurfacing the roadway. While no major underground utility work is anticipated, public works teams will evaluate and address issues with existing storm drain piping in problem areas.
“There are potholes in areas that need to be addressed where the storm piping is crossing, so it’s just to fix some of the storm piping, not doing any new storm work,” Charles maintained.
A staff report adds that “multiple
sections of Henry’s Mill Drive exhibit advanced roadway failure,” including extensive potholing, elevated and misaligned manhole covers, raised water meter covers, and “alligator” cracking, indicating failure of the roadbed.
The report notes that “based on observed conditions, a grind-and-repave project is required. In addition, localized removal and replacement of unsuitable subgrade material may be necessary in identified soft spots to stabilize the roadway and prevent recurring failure.”
Funding for the project will be used with dollars transferred from street capital previously designated for work on Branch Street, Schoolfield Street, Flower Street, and Washington Street.
According to the staff report, each of these locations requires underground utility work before any roadway improvements can occur. As these utility projects are likely not to be completed until the late 20262027 budget timeframe, any roadway construction initiatives are infeasible in the near term.
Charles confirmed the town intends to add these streets back into the next budget cycle after the reallocation.
The project will be put out for bid through a request for proposals (RFP), with officials estimating it
could take three to six months before construction begins.
Residents who attended the meeting voiced concerns about access and timing.
Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall confirmed that throughout the process, “messaging is definitely part of the plan.”
Linda Palmer, a Henry’s Mill Drive citizen, urged officials to provide advance notice so residents can plan for parking and access disruptions.
“We have a lot of people who park cars on the roads,” she said. “We need advanced warning about what to do about that.”
Others asked the town to consider academic schedules, as lots of parents in the area drive their children to school and will need to get in and out of the roadway.
It was also suggested that the construction be coordinated in a way where one side is worked on at a time, creating a path for vehicles to get around.
Nicholas Bradley, with the engineering consulting firm Davis, Bowen & Friedel, maintained that in-andout points would be a priority, as “access is the primary concern.”
The council unanimously approved the funding reallocation, with Councilmember Shaneka Nichols absent.
(March 27, 2026) The Worcester County Arts Council has announced the award winners of its juried exhibition, Roots and Reflections, presented as part of the organization’s 50th Anniversary celebration.
Winners were recognized during the Opening Reception held March 13.
The Roots and Reflections exhibition brings together local and regional artists exploring the meaning of “home.” Through landscapes, cultural traditions, family heritage, and moments of everyday life, the artwork reflects the deep connections between
people, place, and community across Worcester County and Maryland’s Eastern Shore.
“This exhibition invites artists to explore the connections between place, memory, identity, and community— the things that ground us and shape how we see the world around us,” said Anna Mullis, executive director of the Worcester County Arts Council. “The pieces in this show reflect many interpretations of those ideas, from landscapes and local scenes to personal stories and reflections on heritage and belonging.”
The exhibition was juried by local artist Evan Fitzgerald, whose work is deeply rooted in the Eastern Shore and known for its exploration of identity and symbolism.
Award winners are:
First Place: Mary Shelsby, Ye Olde Crab Shanty (Watercolor)
Second Place: Elaine Bean, Spirits: TV Dish and Tractors (Photography)
Third Place: Becky Simonds, Roots and Reflections (Acrylic)
Honorable Mentions: Jiyeong Yun, Virtue Unstained (Korean Painting)
Nancy Reynolds, Fossil Dreaming (Glass Mosaic)
Dan Mathis, Fun City (Watercolor)
Presented in celebration of the Arts Council’s 50th Anniversary, Roots and Reflections honors five decades of Arts, Community, and Connections while showcasing the vibrant creativity that continues to shape the region today.
The exhibition is on view at the Worcester County Arts Council Gallery through April 30. Visitors are invited to experience this compelling collection and celebrate the diverse artistic voices of the Eastern Shore.
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(March 27, 2026) Town of Berlin staff and officials are gearing up to move out of Town Hall as the long-awaited structural renovation project begins. Meetings have been relocated to the library and police department until the work has been completed.
Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall said this month that all Town Council 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 commission and board meetings should enter the police department around the side entrance.
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.
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 moving forward … everybody is packing up. It’s going to be go, go, go until it’s not,” said Town Administrator Mary Bohlen at the March 9 Town Council meeting.
“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.”
(March 27, 2026) If you’re searching for a new career, internship, or even seasonal or part-time work, don’t miss the Worcester County Job & Resource Fair on April 1 from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Snow Hill Volunteer Fire Company.
This free event connects job seekers with local employers who are hiring across a variety of industries. Whether you’re entering the workforce, exploring a job change, or looking for your next career pathway, there will be opportunities for applicants of all education and experience levels.
More than just a place to drop off a resume, the fair offers a chance to network, make a strong impression, and learn what employers are looking for. Come dressed to impress and bring a resume. In addition to meeting employers, participants can connect with community partners offering career resources and support services. Receive a professional headshot, and take home a swag bag with helpful information on upcoming events, resources, and opportunities. Registration is not required but is recommended. To register, visit https://tinyurl.com/April1Registrati on. Worcester County Tourism and Economic Development (WCTED) is hosting this event in partnership with the Worcester County Department of Social Services, Town of Snow Hill, and Maryland Department of Labor.
(March 27, 2026) The 14th Annual St. Joseph’s Day Festival hosted by the Ocean City Sons and Daughters of Italy Lodge is in the books with about 1,500 patrons attending.
The festival is the lodge’s biggest fundraiser for its Mary Castorina Charitable Giving and Memorial Scholarship Programs.
For six hours, guests enjoyed homestyle cooking prepared by lodge members, while being entertained with Italian and popular American music. They purchased tickets for chances on more than 70 gift baskets and baskets of cheer and a 50/50 raffle. They bid on dozens of silent auction packages, many offering fabulous golf packages from the region’s more than a dozen golf courses.
Ocean City’s Touch of Italy restaurant donated 150 pounds of sausage for the ravioli platters and sausage and peppers subs, an increase from 130 pounds in 2025. Lodge members mixed, formed, and baked 2,103 meatballs, surpassing last year’s number of 1,785. Volunteers prepared 18 more pounds of ravioli and to satisfy cravings for a sweet dessert they stuffed 720 cannoli, up from 640.
Also available were 32 dozen St. Joseph’s cakes, a sweet cream-filled zeppole that is traditionally served in Italy to mark the celebration, up two dozen from
last year. Other desserts included Italian cakes and an assortment of Italian cookies baked at home by Lodge members from family recipes. The popular fried dough was served fresh throughout the day. Wine and beer, soft drinks and water were offered at beverage stations.
The ever-popular Pick Six Wheel attracted patrons interested in a game of chance. If acquiring Italian merchandise was on their minds, they were treated to a retail display of shirts, hats, aprons, and jars and packages of prepared Italian foods and an assortment of pastas as soon as they walked in the door.
This all-volunteer festival takes six months to plan and stage. Now that it is over, Lodge members will turn to deciding how to donate the money that was earned.
By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer
(March 27, 2026) There is no denying that food prices are higher than ever. This may be one reason why “nose-totail” cooking is so popular and worth exploring. If one is not familiar with this term, a quick review follows. Nose-to-tail cooking is a culinary term that focuses on using every part of the animal. Its purpose is to reduce waste and explore different textures and flavors through cooking methods like braising, stewing, roasting, and frying.
That being said, I worked at Food Lion for several years, and helped train the exchange students that would come to work during the summer months. There was no doubt that beef tongue was considered a delicacy.
I must confess, at the time I had no idea what beef tongue tasted like, how to cook it, or even pair it with other ingredients. This organ remained a mystery in my repertoire of foodery skills.
Just recently, I was at the supermarket, and guess what I saw in the meat section? Yes, right before me was a large beef tongue. I decided to purchase it and become familiar with it. A wellseasoned cook must explore all options. Allow me to share my research and results of cooking with beef tongue.
First and foremost, what does beef tongue taste like? I was pleasantly surprised. It is very similar in taste and texture to pot roast. And because of this, I realize why beef tongue is so popular.
Beef tongue has a partial rough surface, so proper cleaning is mandatory. Scrub the tongue thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris.
The next train of thought is the
cooking process. If you have a pressure cooker, now is the time to use it. Slow cooking is essential to break down the tough muscle. I cooked it for two hours in the pressure cooker and the meat was fork-tender. A slow cooker will take about eight to ten hours to achieve
the desired consistency.
Seasoning is another consideration. You want the meat to absorb the flavored broth. I added beef broth, chicken broth, salt, garlic powder, peppercorns, carrots, celery, and cornstarch to the boiling water. Then simply cover and reduce the heat.
Once the beef tongue is fully cooked and very tender, you must remove the skin immediately. If you allow the meat to cool, the peeling process becomes more difficult.
How to cut the meat depends on its usage. You can slice it for sandwiches, chop it for tacos, or sear it for a crispy texture. Smoking is another option. Brine the tongue for several days, then smoke it at 250 to 275 degrees for at least four hours until probe tender.
Also, beef tongue is delicious with a sauce and served over mashed potatoes. Add Madeira wine, sherry
vinegar, and a bouquet garni to the veggie and seasonings mentioned above for a delicious, hearty dish.
While we are on the subject of sauces, a wild mushroom sauce over beef tongue is quite tasty and a creative spin on the traditional beef recipes.
If you are a fan of rice bowls, tender beef tongue is a perfect contrast to the coarse rice and veggies.
For those whose cooking skills are more advanced, consider beef tongue is aspic for a jellied beef tongue course.
If an upscale menu tickles your fancy, wagyu-tongue grilled skewers with a garlicky, smoked crème fraiche combines the goodness and crunchiness of charcoal and the cooling, smoothness of a decadent sauce.
In other words, beef tongue can be
incorporated into a variety of dishes. Let your heritage, level of skill, and creativity be your guide. The delightful possibilities are endless. Tacos are a great way to introduce yourself to the cuisine of beef tongue. Use your favorite toppings and have fun with it. There is no set recipe and let your personal preference and level of cooking be your guide.
In closing, I adore the best caviars from all over the world and at the same time can’t wait to sit down and pig out on pig’s feet. And I am telling you, you are going to scarf up beef tongue tacos. Enjoy!
Secret Ingredient – Waste
Use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without.
New England Proverb
BUXY’S SALTY DOG & DRY DOCK 28
410-289-BUXY
28th Street Coastal Hwy. Saturday, March 28: TBA
CAPTAIN’S TABLE
410-289-7192
15th & Boardwalk In The Courtyard Marriott
Friday & Saturday, March 27 & 28: Phil Perdue
COINS PUB
410-289-3100
28th Street Plaza On Coastal Hwy. Friday, March 27: Identity Crisis
Saturday, March 28: First Class
FAGER’S ISLAND
410-524-5500
60th St., In The Bay Friday, March 27: The Chucks & DJ RobCee
Saturday, March 28: Big Machine & DJ Stinson
GREENE TURTLE WEST
410-213-1500 Route 611, West OC Saturday, March 28: Rogue Citizens Every Wednesday: Bingo w/ Blake
HARBORSIDE
410-213-1846
South Harbor Rd., West End O.C.
Fridays: DJ Billy T
Saturday, March 28: Cecilia’s Fall & DJ Bigler Sundays: Pickin’ Party
BIG MACHINE
Fager’s Island: Saturday, March 28
ROADS AND SHINE OF TROPIDELIC
Pickles Pub: Saturday, March 28 (Ticket Event)
Seacrets: Friday, March 27
Thursdays: Dust N Bones
PICKLES PUB
410-289-4891
8th St. & Philadelphia Ave.
Fridays: Beats By DeoGee
Saturday, March 28: Roads And Shine of Tropidelic, Milton J, Michael Sky, Rockstead & The Quasi Kings
Monday, March 30: Karaoke w/ Wood
Thursdays: Beats By Connair
MOOSE SALOON
410-289-6953
TUNNELS END
Moose: Friday & Saturday, March 27 & 28
THE CHUCKS
Fager’s Island: Friday, March 27
Sunday, March 29
FIRST CLASS
Coins Pub: Saturday, March 28
Between Caroline & Talbot Sts. On The Boards
Friday, March 27: Tunnels End & DJ Saturday, March 28: Johnny Cardo (2pm) & Tunnels End (9:30pm)
SEACRETS
410-524-4900
49th St. & Coastal Hwy. Friday, March 27: DJ E-State, Carley Twigg, DJ Davie & The Wayouts Saturday, March 28: Dustin Showers, DJ Connair, DJ E-State & Sky City Social Thursday, April 2: Carley Twigg & DJ J-Spin
Open 7 days a week • Monday - Thursday from 3 to 10 Friday, Saturday, and Sunday 12 noon to 1 Thursdays Buck a Shuck Oysters at 5 • Acoustic Music every Friday 5-8 pm Saturdays 1/2 price burgers all day Happy Hour all day Sundays Happy Hour all day
WED. APRIL 1
APRIL FOOLS
(March 27, 2026) Ocean City Police Chief Ray Austin announced that Lt. Charles J. Kelley has graduated as a member of the 297th session of the FBI National Academy.
The graduation took place at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Va., on March 18. Internationally known for its academic excellence, the FBI National Academy offers 10 weeks of advanced training in communication, leadership, and physical fitness, the OCPD said in a news release. Participants are selected based on proven records of professionalism within their agencies. On average, attendees bring more than 20 years of law enforcement experience and often return to serve in executive-level leadership roles.
A total of 253 law enforcement officers graduated from the program, OCPD reports. The 297th session included participants from 48 states, the District of Columbia, and 24 countries, representing international law enforcement agencies, military organizations, and federal civilian institutions.
Instruction is provided by FBI Academy instructors, special agents, and highly credentialed staff, many of whom are recognized experts in their respective fields. Since 1972, participants have also had the opportunity to earn undergraduate and graduate academic credit through the University of Virginia, which accredits all National Academy courses.
“Lieutenant Kelley’s graduation from the FBI National Academy is a significant professional achievement and a reflection of his dedication to leadership and service,” Austin said in a statement. “Training of this magnitude not only strengthens individual skill sets but also plays a critical role in developing future leaders within our organization. Investing in opportunities like the National Academy ensures we are building strong succession, enhancing our command staff, and continuing to provide the highest level of service to our community.”
Kelley also reflected on his experience, saying “It was a privilege to represent my department at the FBI National Academy, Session 297. This evolution was more than just training; it was a call to action.
“I return to Ocean City with a renewed commitment to selfless service and the unrelenting pursuit of professional excellence. My mission now is to lead from the front, upholding our sacred oath to this Nation and its people while forging the next generation of resilient leaders. This achievement belongs to my family and the team here at the OCPD; their sacrifice and support made this mission possible. Semper Fi.”
Local photographer Jim Halvorsen of OCYachtShots.com reported in this week with a collection of photos signifying the time of year. Spring began last Friday officially, but the signs of the “getting ready” season have been evident for weeks. Some warm days of late have allowed hired contractors and local business employees to start crossing off their “to-do” lists. With Easter falling next weekend and typically bring with it a “spring break” feel to the area, preparations were kicking into high gear last weekend and throughout this week. Pictured are scenes confirming the prep work.
Worcester Youth and Family Counseling Services Clinical Director Caryn Horn and Worcester Navigation Director Christine Felix recently spoke to the Ocean City Lions about their programs serving Worcester County. Pictured, from left, receiving a $1,000 donation are Horn, Emily, Felix and Lion Bill Christmas.
You u are e invited d to o join n us s at t Buckingham m Presbyterian n Church
April 5th
20 S. Main St. - Berlin, MD Two services to choose from
9am Contemporary with live music by Steve Frene of Stevenson’s Crossroads Crossroads & 11am Traditional with beautiful hymns by Greg Fraser by
10:15 am Between Services
Submit calendar items to: editor@octodaydispatch.com. Submission deadline is 5 p.m. Monday, the week of publication. Local submissions have priority. Area event listings are subject to space availability.
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
GODDARD SPACE CENTER VIRTUAL FIELD TRIP
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Take a virtual field trip at the Ocean Pines branch and learn something new about the Goddard Space Center. 410-2084014, worcesterlibrary.org
KIGHTS OF COLUMBUS BINGO
Fridays - Knights of Columbus, 9901 Coastal Highway, behind St. Luke’s Church. Doors open at 5 p.m., bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. Light snacks available before bingo and at intermission. 410524-7994
AUCE BREAKFAST BUFFET
Whaleysville United Methodist, 11716 Sheppards Crossing Road, 7-10 a.m. Buffet includes pancakes, bacon, sausage, scrapple, scrambled eggs, chipped beef, hash brown potatoes, toast, fruit and assorted beverages. Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children.
GLAMOUR GIRL DAY
Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Cost is $25 for residents and $30 for non-residents. For girls ages 4-12 years. Pre-registration required: 410-641-7052, www.oceanpines.org. Services by The Saloon Professional Academy students.
SERVICE SQUAD
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 11 a.m. Earn service learning hours for helping with crafts, program prep and other activities at the library. Open to students of Worcester County Schools, ages 12-18 years. Call for information 410-6410650.
NO KINGS 3 OC BOARDWALK RALLY Tram Station, 801 S. Boardwalk, Ocean City, 12-1:30 p.m. Meet at the Tram Station and march the boardwalk to the Fireman’s Memorial and back. Sponsored by Indivisible, a non-partisan
grass roots group. https://www.mobilize.us/nokings/event/905979/
OCEAN CITY/BERLIN ROTARY BINGO FUNDRAISER
Elks Lodge #2645, Ocean City, MD, 13708 Sinepuxent Ave., 1-4 p.m. Cost is $30. Cash prize minimum $100 per game. Food available for purchase. Tickets: www.ocberlinrotary.com, ocberlinrotary@gmail.com, gina@shafferlawmd.com or stop in Shaffer Law in Berlin. 410-995-8455
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 29
MARYLAND SIERRA CLUB FUNDRAISER
Panchos & Lefty’s, 12911 Ocean Gateway, Ocean City, 12-4 p.m. 10% of proceeds will be donated to the Lower Eastern Shore Group. The LES Group volunteers work to make Maryland’s air, water, soil and food cleaner and healthier for all.
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 30
BUS TRIP TO SMITHSONIAN AMERICAN ART MUSEUM
Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., Ocean City, 8 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Join us for a special day trip to the Smithsonian American Art Museum to experience Grandma Moses: A Good Day’s Work. 410-524-9433
STORY TIME: PIE
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
BATTLE OF THE MACS
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4 p.m. Take plain Mac & cheese, mix some delish add-ins, and let the blind taste test decide who will be the Big Cheese. For ages 12-18 years. Registration required: 410641-0650.
SPRING LANDSCAPES IN TEXTURE AND FIBER
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 6 p.m. A creative exploration of spring landscapes using canvas, texture paste and a variety of fibers. Learn how to build depth and movement while crafting a serene scene. Registration required 410-957-0878.
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
STORY TIME: SPRING SHOWERS AND FLOWERS
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 10:30 a.m. Crafts, songs and stories. 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, worcesterlibrary.org
SENSORY STORY TIME
BABY TIME
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Story time geared for ages 0-5 years featuring seasonal themes designed to support early literacy skills with stories, songs and fingerplays. For ages 0-5 years. 410-641-0650, worcesterlibrary.org
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
BUNNY BURROWS
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30 p.m. Learn about the Earth’s surface while creating a delicious treat. For ages 6-11 years. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org
STITCH & BITCH
Art Collective at The Factory, 16 S. Main St., Suite D, Berlin, 5-7 p.m. Held every other Tuesday. Bring what you are stitching and join in for good talks and good times. Show up anytime after 5 p.m. https://art-collective.square.site
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
Continued on Page 44
Crossword answers from page 66
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.
OPENING DAY AND FREE CONCERT
Calvin B. Taylor House, 208 N. Main St., Berlin, 11 a.m. Featuring Ampersand 250 & Music of the New Nation. Reserve your seat and receive a free VIP gift. Send your name and number in your party to info@taylorhousemuseum.org. www.taylorhousemuseum.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
MUSIC OF THE NEW NATION
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Easton-based traditional music group, Ampersand, will present a concert of
Revolutionary War-era music. Songs about the stirrings of revolution, colonists, soldiers, slaves and protests. 410-208-4014
PAINT & SIP
Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 6-8 p.m. Cost is $27 and includes wine and crackers. Register 410-641-7052.
KIWANIS CLUB MEETING
Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. Last Wednesday of the month meetings are offsite and information can be found on the website and Facebook. www.kiwanisofopoc.org.
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
SCHOOL’S OUT: SPRING CRAFTS DAY
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. A variety of spring crafts offered. For ages 6-18 years. 410-957-0878, worcesterlibrary.org
STORY TIME: EASTER
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
PLAY TIME
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. A variety of activities and toys. Play and socialize with other families. For ages 2-5 years. 410-632-5622, worcesterlibrary.org
POCOMOKE BRANCH BOOK CLUB: ‘THE CELLIST OF SARAJEVO’ BY STEVEN GALLOWAY
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 2 p.m. A lively discussion each month. Stop by the Pocomoke Branch to pick up a copy in
advance. 410-957-0878, worcesterlibrary.org
OC CHESS CLUB
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Enjoy a relaxing game of chess monthly at the library. 410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org
ROCK CASTLE HOME: MOVIE & DISCUSSION
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Handbuilt cabins, grist mills and whiskey stills characterized Rock Castle Gorge, a mountain community displaced by the Blue Ridge Parkway in the 1930s. Award-winning film & discussion. 410-208-4014
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
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
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
TEEN TIME: EGG DECORATING
BOOKMARK DESIGN CONTEST
Pick up an entry form and template at any Worcester County library branch. This year’s theme is “Unearth a Story.” Submit your design by April 30 for a chance to be featured. Winners announced May 13. For families. 443-2355597
HISTORY HUNTERS BEANSTACK CHALLENGE
Throughout April, pick up a field guide and your paper mascot from any Worcester County library branch, visit historic sites, read books and snap pictures of your adventures along the way. Return your field guide when you’re finished or log your activities online on beanstack to enter the drawing for a prize. For families. 443-235-5597
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., throughout April. Celebrate the author’s birthday with a make and take craft kit. Stop by anytime to pick up supplies for your own fairy tale diorama kit. Learn more about Andersen at the Storywalk through a picture book biography at John Walter Smith Park. For families. 410-632-5622
Snow Hill library, 307 N. Washington St., throughout April. Pick up a Historyto-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
‘HEARTWOOD’ BY AMITY GAIGE
Ocean City library, 10003 Coastal Highway, April 1-30. Pick up a copy of this month’s read. Come in by April 29 to share your impressions and enter into a drawing to win free books. 410-524-1818
TAKE HOME POETRY KIT
Ocean City library, 10003 Coastal Highway, April 1-30. Take home poetry kit full of fun prompts, ideas, and challenges. Available for both the 6-11 years and 12-18 years age ranges. 410-5241818
MARYLAND FIREFIGHTER 50/50 FUNDRAISER
FRIDAY, APRIL 3rd 2026 AT NOON
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
FREE TAX PREP
AARP is offering free tax preparations to the public. AARP Foundation Tax Aides will be available at the following libraries: Mondays in Ocean Pines; Wednesdays, Berlin; Fridays, Pocomoke City; and Saturdays, Ocean City. By appointment only: 443-584-5661, aarpfoundation.org/taxaide.
Drawings are held every Thursday at 8 p.m. Ticket sales open Thursdays at 8:05 p.m. and close the following Thursday at 7:59 p.m. One winner takes home 50% of the total jackpot and the remainder supports the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department. Tickets: https://md.5050raffle.org/give/ mdfire/50-50-raffles/md5050/ charities/ocean-pines/checkout
2025 KIWANIS LOTTERY TICKETS ON SALE On sale every Saturday morning at the Ocean Pines Farmers Market from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. One $20 ticket is good for all 365 drawings in 2025. Benefits the youth of the community.
The annual Farmers Bank of Willards Meeting of Stockholders will be held on April 30, 2026 at 10:00am at the Willards Lions Club Hall on Hearn Street in Willards, Md.
PART TIME BOOKKEEPER for Local Business. Knowledge of QuickBooks is helpful, for standard double entry cash basis bookkeeping, with weekly and monthly bank reconciliation. Very flexible hours. Call Dennis Gural 410-627-8545 or e-mail to dennisgural@ interstateoilsus.com.
PGN Crab House
29th Street & Coastal Hwy, Now Hiring for • Waitstaff • Kitchen Help Apply within in person after 11:00 am.
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
MARINE MECHANIC
needed for year round marine business in West Ocean City. Yamaha training school available in the off season. Call 410-213-2296.
CUSTOMER SERVICE
POSITION available at year round marine business in West Ocean City. Call 410-213-1383.
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
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
or call 302-541-8831 for an interview Extended Spring & Summer Stays Avail. Utililites Included CONTACT US AT burgundyinn@gmail.com 410-289-8581
YEARLY RENTAL
Available Immediately 2 UNITS - Robin Dr. (1 furn., 1 unfurn.) 2BR, 1BA. Dog friendly only. Ideal for 2 mature adults. $2,000/mo. + electric. Call/text 703-819-7400
Seasonal WEEKLY RENTAL only. Single family home, Berlin, 4Br, 3Ba. $725/night. Call 484-319-7188 for details.
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.
2 BEDROOM, 1.5 BATH in Berlin. Very clean, furnished or unfurnished. $1800 a month. No pets. No smoking. Call 301-748-1977.
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
Yearly & Seasonal Rentals We Welcome Pets 7700 Coastal Hwy 410-524-7700 www.holidayoc.com
Mention this ad for $10 OFF Application Fee!
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.
OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT
Looking for space, comfort and great views? Spacious, climatecontrolled office available, with use of conference room and reception area, in a modern, wellmaintained building in prime Ocean City location. Call 410-524-3440 for appointment.
Responsible Female, 48 years old BABYSITTING PETSITTING HOUSESITTING Call Kate 443-859-2467. 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.
I
ALBUMS!
COMMUNITY YARD SALEBerlin, Decatur Farm. Off Route 113, across from Stephen Decatur Park Saturday, April 4th, 7:30am to Noon.
How well You know me, Yet, You reach for my broken, To lead me from here.
DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-855-337-5228 www.dental50plus.com/ MDDC #6258
Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-855-993-0969 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.
MISC. FOR SALE Get Boost Infinite! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 855-977-5719 MISC. FOR SALE Get DISH
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
JAMES
E. CLUBB, JR., ESQ.
108 N. 8th Street
Ocean City, Maryland 21842
THIRTEEN (13) WEEKS
By virtue of a Claim of Lien recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, and pursuant to the Order of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, Case No. C-23-CV-26-000062, the undersigned Trustee will offer for sale at public auction at the Quarters Condominium building located at 12108 Coastal Highway, the following described property located in the Town of Ocean City, in the Tenth Election District of Worcester County, Maryland, on
TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2026 AT 11:00 A.M.
Series of Weeks B, in Unit No. 404, in the Quarters Condominium, being an annually recurring series of thirteen (13) weeks, together with an undivided percentage interest in the common elements thereof, as established by a Condominium Declaration and By-Laws recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, in Liber No. 1285, folio 190; and pursuant to the plats recorded therewith in Plat Book No. 110, folio 27; and as more fully described in the Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions - Timeshare Ownership recorded in Liber No. 1285, folio 220.
The property will be sold in an AS IS condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranties or guarantees. The property is free and clear of mortgages. The Trustee reserves the right to reject any and all bids.
Terms of Sale: A deposit in the amount of Fifteen Thousand Dollars ($15,000.00) will be required at the time of sale, such deposit to be in a cashier=s or bank check, with the balance to be paid in wired funds at time of settlement. The date of settlement shall be ten (10) days after final ratification by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, time being of the essence; otherwise, the deposit will be forfeited and the property will be resold at the risk and expense of the defaulting Purchaser, or in any manner designated by the Trustee. The Trustee reserves the right to waive the deposit requirements as to the Purchaser representing the interest of the party secured by the Lien. Monthly maintenance fees will be the sole responsibility of the Purchaser beginning from the date of sale. All costs of conveyancing, including transfer and recordation taxes, shall be paid by the Purchaser. In the event the undersigned is unable to convey marketable title, the sale will be null and void and the Purchaser=s sole remedy will be the return of the deposit
without interest.
For more information, call:
James E. Clubb, Jr., Esq. Trustee
410-289-2323
OCD-3/19/3t
JAMES E. CLUBB, JR., ESQ.
108 8th Street
Ocean City, Maryland 21842
12 42nd STREET, #305 OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND
By virtue of a Statement of Lien recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, and pursuant to an Order of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland in Case No. C-23-CV-25-000368, the undersigned Trustee will offer for sale at public auction in front of the condominium building located at 12 42nd Street, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, on FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2026
AT 9:00AM
ALL that property lying and being situate in the Town of Ocean City, in the Tenth Election District of Worcester County, Maryland, more particularly designated and distinguished as Unit No. 305 in the Mystic Point Condominium, together with an undivided percentage interest in the common elements thereof, as established pursuant to a Condominium Declaration and By-Laws recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland in Uber No. 394, folio 86, with Condominium Plats recorded therewith in Plat Book No. 32, folio 62, et seq.
The property will be sold in an AS IS condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, with no warranties or guarantees. The Trustee reserves the right to reject any and all bids.
Terms of Sale: A deposit in the amount of Thirty Thousand Dollars ($30,000.00) will be required at the time of sale, such deposit to be in a cashier's or bank check, with the balance to be paid in wired funds at the time of settlement. The date of settlement shall be fifteen (15) days after final ratification by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, time being of the essence; otherwise, the deposit will be forfeited and the property will be resold at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser, or in any manner designated by the Trustee; or, without forfeiting deposit, the Seller may exercise any of its legal or equitable rights against the defaulting purchaser. The undersigned reserves the right to waive the deposit requirements as to the purchaser representing the interest of the party secured by the Statement of Lien. Real property taxes, wastewater charges, and condominium dues will be adjusted to the date of sale and thereafter assumed by the purchaser. All costs of conveyancing, including transfer and recordation taxes, shall be paid by the purchaser. The purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining possession of the property. Purchaser
agrees to pay to the Seller an Attorney's fee of $350.00 for review of any motion which may be filed with the Court to substitute a purchaser herein. In the event the undersigned is unable to convey marketable title, the sale will be null and void and the purchaser's sole remedy will be the return of the deposit without interest.
For more information, call: James E. Clubb, Jr. Trustee 410-289-2323 OCD-3/12/3t
COHN, GOLDBERG & DEUTSCH, LLC 1099 WINTERSON ROAD, SUITE 301 LINTHICUM HEIGHTS, MARYLAND 21090 www.cgd-law.com/sales
303 SCHOONER LANE, UNIT 102 BERLIN, MD 21811
By authority contained in a Deed of Trust dated October 6, 2020 and recorded in Liber 7802, Folio 486, among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, with an original principal balance of $145,000.00, and an interest rate of 3.500%, default having occurred thereunder, the Substitute Trustees will sell at public auction at the Courthouse door for the Circuit Court for Worcester County, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863, on
March 30, 2026 AT 11:00 AM
ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE property more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The property being sold is a condominium unit and all common elements appurtenant thereto.
Terms of Sale: The property will be sold “as is” subject to any conditions, restrictions, easements and agreements of record affecting same with no warranty of any kind. A deposit of $13,000.00 by certified funds only (no cash accepted) required at time of auction. Balance of the purchase price to be paid within 10 days of ratification of sale by the Court, with interest at the note rate from date of sale to settlement. If settlement is delayed for ANY reason, there shall be no abatement of interest or taxes. All private utility, water and sewer facilities charges, front foot benefit payments, ground rent, or condo/HOA assessments, not otherwise divested by ratification of the sale are payable by purchaser without adjustment. Real estate taxes and all other public charges, or assessments, to be adjusted as of date of sale. Transfer and recordation taxes, and all other costs incident to settlement, shall be borne by purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property.
TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE. If purchaser fails to go to settlement within ten days of ratification, or
otherwise fails to comply with the terms of sale, the Trustee may declare the entire deposit forfeited and resell the property at the risk and expense of defaulting purchaser, who agrees to pay reasonable attorneys' fees and costs if a motion to resell the property has been filed, purchaser waives personal service of any paper filed in connection with such motion, and agrees to accept service of any such paper by regular mail to the address provided at time of sale. If the Trustee cannot convey insurable title, or the loan servicer determines that the sale should not have occurred, the sale shall be null and void, and purchaser's sole remedy shall be the return of deposit without interest.
Potential Bidders: For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 2802832.
Richard E. Solomon, et al., Sub. Trustees
Tidewater Auctions, LLC (410) 825-2900 www.tidewaterauctions.com www.Auction.com
CGD File #: 464429
OCD-3/12/3t
Aldridge Pite LLP 6001 Executive Blvd., Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20852 301-961-6555
OF REAL PROPERTY AND ANY IMPROVEMENTS THEREON
11500 COASTAL HIGHWAY, UNIT #607 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust dated May 12, 2006, recorded in Liber 4711, Folio 227 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, with an original principal balance of $344,250.00, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Sub. Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on
MARCH 31, 2026 AT 4:00 PM
ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND, together with any buildings or improvements thereon located in Worcester County, MD and described as Unit No. 607, in Sea Watch Condominium and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust.
The property, and any improvements thereon, will be sold in an "as is" condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranty of any kind.
Terms of Sale: A deposit of $34,000 in the form of certified check, cashier's check or money order will be required of the purchaser at time and place of sale. Balance of the purchase price, together with interest on the unpaid purchase money at the current rate contained
in the Deed of Trust Note, or any modifications thereto, from the date of sale to the date funds are received by the Sub. Trustees, payable in cash within ten days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court. There will be no abatement of interest due to the purchaser in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE FOR THE PURCHASER. Adjustment of all real property taxes, including agricultural taxes, if applicable, and any and all public and/or private charges or assessments, to the extent such amounts survive foreclosure sale, including water/sewer, ground rent and front foot benefit charges, to be adjusted to date of sale and thereafter assumed by purchaser. Purchaser is responsible for any recapture of homestead tax credit. All transfer taxes and recordation taxes shall be paid by Purchaser. The purchaser shall be responsible for the payment of the ground rent escrow, if required. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale. Purchaser is responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property, and assumes risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale. The sale is subject to post-sale audit of the status of the loan with the loan servicer including, but not limited to, determination of whether the borrower entered into any repayment agreement, reinstated or paid off the loan prior to the sale. In any such event, this sale shall be null and void, and the Purchaser's sole remedy, in law or equity, shall be the return of the deposit without interest. If purchaser fails to settle within ten days of ratification, subject to order of court, purchaser agrees that property will be resold and entire deposit retained by Sub. Trustees as liquidated damages for all losses occasioned by the purchaser's default and purchaser shall have no further liability. The purchaser waives personal service of any papers filed in connection with its failure to settle within ten days of ratification and expressly agrees to accept service by first class mail at the address provided by the Purchaser as identified on the Memorandum of Sale. The defaulted purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds resulting from said resale even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulted purchaser. Sub. Trustees will convey either marketable or insurable title. If they cannot deliver one or the other, or if ratification of the sale is denied by the Circuit Court for any reason, the Purchaser's sole remedy, at law or equity, is return of the deposit without interest. (Matter No. 378098-1)
Andrew J. Brenner, et al, Substitute Trustees
OCD-3/12/3t
JOHN F. ROBBERT ESQ
CHESAPEAKE LEGAL COUNSEL LLC
2661 RIVA RD STE 410A
ANNAPOLIS, MD 21401-7335
NOTICE TO CREDITORS TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of ANNA K MARINER Estate No. 21043 Notice is given that MORGAN J MARINER whose address is 12 14TH ST POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851-1343 was on MARCH 05, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ANNA K MARINER who died on JANUARY 01, 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 5th day of SEPTEMBER, 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 5th day of SEPTEMBER, 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-3/12/3t
OF PASSAGE OF BILL 25-07
WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Take Notice that Bill 25-07 (Zoning – Off-street parking clear height) was passed by Commissioners Abbott, Bertino, Bunting, Elder, Fiori, Mitrecic, and Purnell on March 3, 2026.
A fair summary of the bill is as follows:
Add a new subsection § ZS 1320(b)(2) of the Zoning and Subdivision Control Article to establish a minimum clear height for required off-street parking provided in an enclosed or covered structure in two-
family, multi-family, and townhouse dwelling units.
This bill becomes effective 45 days from the date of passage.
This is only a fair summary of the bill. A full copy of the bill is posted on the Legislative Bulletin Board in the main hall of the Worcester County Government Center outside Room 1103., is available for public inspection in Room 1103 of the Worcester County Government Center and is available on the County Website at www.co.worcester.md.us.
THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OCD-3/12/3t
OF PASSAGE OF BILL 26-01
WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Take Notice that Bill 26-01 (Zoning – Short-term rentals) was passed by Commissioners Abbott, Bertino, Elder, Fiori, Mitrecic, and Purnell on March 3, 2026.
A fair summary of the bill is as follows:
Repeal and replace subsection § ZS 1-351(b)(5) of the Zoning and Subdivision Control Article to modify the effective date at which a third parking space shall be provided for a short-term rental property to April 17, 2026.
This bill becomes effective 45 days from the date of passage.
This is only a fair summary of the bill. A full copy of the bill is posted on the Legislative Bulletin Board in the main hall of the Worcester County Government Center outside Room 1103., is available for public inspection in Room 1103 of the Worcester County Government Center and is available on the County Website at www.co.worcester.md.us.
THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OCD-3/12/3t
OF PASSAGE OF BILL 26-02
WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Take Notice that Bill 26-02 was passed by Commissioners Abbott, Bertino, Bunting, Elder, Fiori, Mitrecic, and Purnell on March 3, 2026. A fair summary of the bill is as follows: Bill 26-02 is titled AN ACT TO EMPOWER AND AUTHORIZE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND TO BORROW ON ITS FULL FAITH AND CREDIT NOT MORE THAN SIX HUNDRED EIGHTEEN THOUSAND DOLLARS ($618,000) IN ORDER TO FINANCE AND REFINANCE IMPROVEMENTS TO LEWIS ROAD SEWER EXTENSION PROJECT(S).
This bill becomes effective 45 days from the date of passage. This is only a fair summary of the bill. A full copy of the bill is posted on the Legislative Bulletin Board in the main hall of the Worcester County Government Center outside Room 1103., is available for public inspection in Room 1103 of the Worcester County Government Center and is
available on the County Website at www.co.worcester.md.us.
THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OCD-3/12/3t
Mayor & City Council
Ocean City, Maryland
P05-26 – Ocean City Life-Saving Museum Board and Paint Replacement
The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Ocean City Life-Saving Museum Board and Paint Replacement and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.
Proposal Documents for the Ocean City Life-Saving Museum Board and Paint Replacement 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 MONDAY, MARCH 16TH, 2026 AT 10:00AM EST, AT THE OCEAN CITY LIFE-SAVING MUSEUM, 813 SOUTH ATLANTIC AVENUE, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842. The Last Day for Questions will be on TUESDAY, MARCH 24TH, 2026, AT 4:00PM EST. Addendum will be posted by close of business on WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25TH, 2026
Sealed Proposal Documents are due no later than THURSDAY, APRIL 2ND, 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, APRIL 3RD, 2026, AT 10:00AM 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 (P05-26 – Ocean City Life-Saving Museum Board and Paint Replacement) 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
Matt Perry Procurement Manager
Town of Ocean City, Maryland
OCD-3/12/4t
Mayor & City Council
Ocean City, Maryland
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 the Solicitation.
OCD-2/26/5t
MARIANNA BATIE ESQ
LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE
1321 MOUNT HERMON RD STE B
SALISBURY, MD 21804-5303
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of JOHN CLIFFORD PAGE II Estate No. 21046 Notice is given that JOHN CLIFFORD PAGE III whose address is 200 MAVERICK ST APT 3 BOSTON, MA 02128-3750 was on MARCH 06, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOHN CLIFFORD PAGE II who died on FEBRUARY 04, 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 6th day of SEPTEMBER, 2026. All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 6th day of SEPTEMBER, 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-3/12/3t
MARIANNA BATIE ESQ. BATIE LAW LLC 9748 STEPHEN DECATUR HWY., STE. 112 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-9358
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21047 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF DONALD SECOR DOEG
Notice is given that Lori Doeg Houtz, 7711 Timbercross Ln., Glen Burnie, MD 21060-8378, was on March 06, 2026 appointed Personal
Representative of the estate of Donald Secor Doeg who died on November 30, 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 6th day of September, 2026.
All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 6th day of September, 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.
Lori Doeg Houtz
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 12, 2026
OCD-3/12/3t
J. HARRISON PHILLIPS III ESQ. 8705 E. BISCAYNE DRIVE OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21048 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MARGARET ANN DENNIS
AKA: F/K/A MARGARET ANN WELLS
Notice is given that J. Harrison Phillips III Esq., 8705 E. Biscayne Dr., Ocean City, MD 21842-5109, was on March 09, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Margaret Ann Dennis who died on February 16, 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 rep-
resentative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 9th day of September, 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 September, 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.
J. Harrison Phillips III, Esq. 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 12, 2026
OCD-3/12/3t
ARLETTE K BRIGHT ESQ THE LAW OFFICES OF ARLETTE K. BRIGHT, PC 1002 EASTERN SHORE DRIVE, #B SALISBURY, MD 21804
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of JACQUELINE MARIE FREEMAN Estate No. 21050 Notice is given that MITCHELL FREEMAN whose address is 4715 W 4100 S WEST HAVEN, UT 844018823 was on MARCH 09, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JACQUELINE MARIE FREEMAN who died on DECEMBER 08, 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 9th day of SEPTEMBER, 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 SEPTEMBER, 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-3/12/3t
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Estate No. 21044 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF DOROTHY L. KISER
AKA: DOROTHY LOVELL KISER
Notice is given that Allison Kiser, 6342 Knoll Hill Dr., Berlin, MD 21811-2525; and Heather Kiser, 10546 Harrison Rd., Berlin, MD 21811-2869, were on March 03, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Dorothy L. Kiser who died on January 15, 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 3rd day of September, 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 3rd day of September, 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.
Allison Kiser
Heather Kiser
Personal Representatives
True Test Copy
Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street
Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074
Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest
Date of publication: March 12, 2026
OCD-3/12/3t
JANELLE M. RYAN-COLBERT, ESQ.
3060 MITCHELLVILLE RD., STE. 218 BOWIE, MD 20716-3975
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19939 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF RALPH WILLIAM SHOCKLEY
Notice is given that Deborah Shockley, 11886 Man O’War Ln., Berlin, MD 21811-3362, was on March 10, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ralph William Shockley who died on October 05, 2023, with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 10th day of September, 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 September, 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.
Deborah Shockley 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 12, 2026
OCD-3/12/3t
HIDDEN HARBOUR III CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION
c/o Ayres, Jenkins, Gordy & Almand, P.A. 6200 Coastal Highway, Suite 200 Ocean City, Maryland 21842
Plaintiff vs. Michelle D. Breau 154 English Run Circle Sparks, Maryland 21152
Defendant IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MARYLAND FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND CIVIL CASE NO. C-23-CV-25-000232
ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, this March 11, 2026, that the foreclosure auction sale of Hidden Harbour III Condominium, Unit 337K, 12301 Jamaica Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland, made and reported by Spencer Ayres Cropper, Trustee, be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the April 13, 2026, provided a copy of this Order is published in a newspaper of general circulation in Worcester County, Maryland, once in three successive weeks, before the April 6, 2026.
The Report states that the total proceeds from the sale of the property to be $217,000.00.
Susan R. Braniecki CLERK, CIRCUIT COURT True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-3/19/3t
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21058 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF DAVID TIMOTHY MADEN
Notice is given that Alisha Maden, 6 Somerset Ave., Pocomoke City, MD 21851-1339, was on March 11, 2026 appointed personal representative of the small estate of David Timothy Maden who died on February 09, 2026, 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 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.
Alisha Maden 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 19, 2026
OCD-3/19/1t
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Estate No. 21056 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JAMES WILLIAM PRATT SR.
Notice is given that Renae Elizabeth Pratt, 116 Pinehurst Rd., Berlin, MD 21811-1620, was on March 11, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James William Pratt Sr. who died on February 27, 2026, 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 11th day of September, 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 11th day of September, 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.
Renae Elizabeth Pratt 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 19, 2026
OCD-3/19/3t
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Estate No. 21055 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF RICHARD A. CARROLL
Notice is given that Brandon Carroll, 16 Beaconhill Rd., Berlin, MD 21811-1613, was on March 12, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Richard A. Carroll who died on February 23, 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 12th day of September, 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 September, 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.
Brandon Carroll 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 19, 2026
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 13162 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ANNIE L. OLIVER
Notice is given that Sandra Kay Branch, 3517 Payne Rd., Pocomoke City, MD 21851-2937, was on March 12, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Annie L. Oliver who died on May 02, 2008, 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 12th day of September, 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 September, 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.
Sandra Kay Branch 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 19, 2026
To all persons interested in the estate of LAURA L DORMAN Estate No. 21061 Notice is given that JANICE LEA YORK whose address is 14343 WESTWIND DR ONANCOCK, VA 23417-3428, DAWN ELLEN SPICER whose address is 5204 DUCK CROSSING LN SALISBURY, MD 21801-2602 were on MARCH 16, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of LAURA L DORMAN who died on JANUARY 30, 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 16th day of SEPTEMBER, 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 16th day of SEPTEMBER, 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-3/19/3t
OF PUBLIC HEARING MAYOR & COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL, MARYLAND
to consider the proposed Fiscal Year 2027 General Operating and Water & Sewer Budgets.
The public is cordially invited to attend and offer comments and opinions on the draft budget. For further information concerning this public hearing or for a copy of the draft please contact the Town Manager’s Office, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, Maryland, 21863, #410-632-2080. OCD-3/26/2t
Central Landfill Cell 1 Pump Station Upgrades
Worcester County is seeking bids from qualified Vendors for Central Landfill Cell 1 Pump Station Upgrades 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 bid board web page. 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 the Central Site Landfill (7091 Central Site Lane, Newark, MD 21841) on April 9, 2026, at 10 a.m.
The last date/time for questions will be April 21, 2026, at noon.
Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than April 30, 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 – Central Landfill Cell 1 Pump Station” in the lower lefthand corner.
Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for award of this solicitation.
OCD-3/26/1t
OCD-3/19/3t
MICHAEL B MATHERS ESQ
WEBB, WILBUR, MATHERS ILLUMINATI & LUKAS, LLP PO BOX 910 DOUSE & MATHERS, LLP SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910 NOTICE
Tuesday, April 28th, 2026 at 5:00 PM
Pursuant to the provisions of the Charter of the Town of Snow Hill Section 45 notice is hereby given that a PUBLIC HEARING is scheduled on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. at the Special Meeting of the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill at Worcester County Government Center, Boardroom, Room 1102, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863. The purpose of the hearing is
OF PUBLIC HEARING WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS AGENDA
THURSDAY APRIL 9, 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. 26-19, on the lands of OCO SPE LLC and State Street Station SPE LLC, on the application of Joel Irving, requesting a special exception to structurally alter a legally existing non-conforming pylon sign by adding electronic signage in the C-2 General Commercial District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3), ZS 1122(d)(1), ZS 1-210(b)(2), ZS 1-305 and ZS 1-324, located at 12741 Ocean Gateway, Tax Map 27, Parcel 642, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.
6:35 p.m. Case No. 26-18, on the lands of All Seasons RV & Boat Storage LLC, on the application of Hugh Cropper IV, requesting an after-thefact variance to the side yard setback from 30 feet to 21.7 feet (to encroach 8.3 feet) for an existing storage building in the A-2 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-202(c)(12) and ZS 1305, located at 13222 Handy Lane, Tax Map 9, Parcel 301, Tax District 5, Worcester County, Maryland.
6:40 p.m. Case No. 25-45, on the lands of Jennifer and Dean DiMattia, requesting a variance to reduce the Chesapeake Bay Critical Area Buffer from 100 feet to 50 feet (to encroach 50 feet) for a proposed garage in the A-1 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(m), ZS 1-201(b)(5), ZS 1-201(d)(2) and ZS 1-305 and Natural Resources Code §§ NR 3104(d)(4) and NR 3-111, located at 500 Shore Line Lane, Tax Map 98, Parcel 2, Tax District 1, Worcester County, Maryland.
OCD-3/26/2t
The Tax Lien Season 2025 LP c/o Eskin Law, LLC 1700 Reisterstown Road, Suite 212 Pikesville, MD 21208
Plaintiff v. MILLARD EDWARD JONES Worcester County Treasurer's Office of Worcester County State of Maryland Office of the Attorney General DELORIS B. JONES ANDRESE SMITH
The Testate and Intestate Successors of Millard Edward Jones, Believed to Be Deceased, and All Persons Claiming by, Through, or Under the Individual Believed to Be Deceased
All unknown owners of the property (8336 CIRCLE RD BERLIN 21811 being known as District - 03 Account Identifier - 002985 with a legal description of 1.136 ACS S SIDE CIRCLE RD SE OF WHALEYVILLE on the Tax Roll of the Director of Finance), the unknown owner's heirs, devisees, and personal representatives and their or any of their heirs, devisees, executors, administrators, grantees, as-
signs, or successors in right, title and interest and any and all persons having or claiming to have any interest in the property.
Defendants IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY Case No. C-23-CV-26-000076
The object of this proceeding is to secure foreclosure of all rights of redemption from tax sale on the property known as 8336 CIRCLE RD BERLIN 21811 being known as District - 03 Account Identifier - 002985 with a legal description of 1. 1.136 ACS S SIDE CIRCLE RD SE OF WHALEYVILLE on the Tax Roll of the Director of Finance sold by the Finance Officer of WORCESTER COUNTY, State of Maryland to The Tax Lien Season 2025 LP, the Plaintiff.
A description of the property in substantially the same form as the description appearing on the Certificate of Tax Sale is as follows: 8336 CIRCLE RD BERLIN 21811 being known as District - 03 Account Identifier - 002985 with a legal description of 1.136 ACS S SIDE CIRCLE RD SE OF WHALEYVILLE on the Tax Roll of the Director of Finance.
The Complaint states among other things that the amount necessary for redemption has not been paid.
It is thereupon this 18th of March, 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 once a week for three consecutive weeks, warning all persons interested in the property to appear before this Court by the 18th day of May, 2026 and redeem the property and answer the Complaint or thereafter a final judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property, and vesting title to the property in Plaintiff, free of all liens and encumbrances.
Beau H. Oglesby Judge, Circuit Court for WORCESTER COUNTY
True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD
OCD-3/26/3t
MICHAEL B MATHERS ESQ
WEBB, WILBUR, MATHERS
ILLUMINATI & LUKAS, LLP
DOUSE & MATHERS, LLP PO BOX 910
SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of DAVID ANDREW STANTON Estate No. 21064 Notice is given that JAMES ANDREW STANTON whose address is 5458 COVERDALE WAY MEDINA, OH 44256-5531 was on MARCH 19, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of DAVID ANDREW STANTON who died on JANUARY
28, 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 19th day of SEPTEMBER, 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 19th day of SEPTEMBER, 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-3/26/3t
WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON
CHRISTOPHER T. WOODLEY ESQ. 3509 COASTAL HWY. OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3334
TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 21066
NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Orphans court of York County, Pennsylvania appointed (1) Kimberly K. Eisenhart, 805 Greenbriar. Rd., York, PA 17404-1339; (2) Scott W. Fidler, 12090 Rockville Rd., Glen Rock, PA 17327-8123 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Wayne H. Fidler who died on August 28, 2025 domiciled in Pennsylvania, United States.
The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is (1) Christopher T. Woodley, 3509 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, MD 21842-3334; (2) Christopher T. Woodley, 3509 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, MD 21842-3334.
At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: Worcester.
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.
(1) Kimberly K. Eisenhart (2) Scott W. Fidler Foreign Personal Representatives 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 26, 2026
OCD-3/26/3t
Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland
P06-26 – Non-Cash Bus Fare Payment System
The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Non-Cash Bus Fare Payment System and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.
Proposal Documents for the NonCash Bus Fare Payment System 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, APRIL 14TH, 2026 AT 11:00AM EST, AT THE PROCUREMENT CONFERENCE ROOM, 214 65TH STREET, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842. Pre-Proposal Meeting attendance is mandatory for Vendors intending to submit Proposals for consideration. The Town of Ocean City will additionally provide a virtual attendance option, via Zoom, upon formal request in writing to the Procurement Manager, for Vendors
unable to attend the Pre-Proposal Meeting in person. The Last Day for Questions will be on THURSDAY, APRIL 30TH, 2026, AT 4:00PM EST. Addendum will be posted by close of business on FRIDAY, MAY 1ST, 2026
Sealed Proposal Documents are due no later than THURSDAY, MAY 14TH, 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, MAY 15TH, 2026, AT 10:00AM 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 (P06-26 – Non-Cash Bus Fare Payment System) 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-3/26/7t
Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland
B12-26 – 5th Street Post Office Demolition
The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking BID’s from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the 5th Street Post Office Demolition and for said work to conform with the BID Documents. BID Documents for the 5th Street Post Office Demolition may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either emailing 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 WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1ST, 2026 AT 10:00AM EST, AT THE 5TH STREET POST OFFICE, 408 PHILADELPHIA AVENUE, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842
The Last Day for Questions will be on THURSDAY, APRIL 9TH, 2026 AT 4:00PM EST. Addendum will be posted by close of business on FRI-
DAY, APRIL 10TH, 2026
Sealed BID Documents are due no later than THURSDAY, APRIL 16TH, 2026, BY 4:00PM EST. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the PROCUREMENT CONFERENCE ROOM, ON FRIDAY, APRIL 17TH, 2026, AT 10:00AM EST. BID’s are to be submitted to the Town of Ocean City Procurement Department, Attention: Procurment Manager; 214 65th Street, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (5th Street Post Office Demolition) must be noted on the outside of the package.
Late BID Documents will not be accepted.
Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation.
Matt Perry Procurement Manager
Town of Ocean City, Maryland
OCD-3/26/3t
RALPH J. DIPIETRO, ET AL
Substitute Trustees
Plaintiffs
v.
ARNOLD W. JENKINS, SR.
Defendant IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY
Case No.: C-23-CV-26-000008
NOTICE is hereby given this 20th day of March, 2026 by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings and described as 14 2nd Street, Pocomoke City, MD 21851 will be ratified and confirmed, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 20th day of April, 2026, next, provided a copy of this NOTICE be published at least once a week in each of three successive weeks in some newspaper of general circulation published in said County before the 13th day of April, 2026, next.
The report states the amount of sale to be $100,000.00 to David Simard and Realty Tech, LLC.
Susan Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court for Worcester County True Copy
Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-3/26/3t
JAMES W. ALMAND ESQ
AYRES JENKINS GORDY & ALMAND, PA
6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES
ESTATE NO. 21070
NOTICE IS GIVEN that the REGISTER OF WILLS court of YORK COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA appointed GINGER BRUHA whose address is 325 HIRSCHMANN RD BIGLERVILLE, PA 17307-9136 as the PERSONAL REPRESENTA-
TIVE of the Estate of ROGER DAVID OVERFIELD who died on NOVEMBER 07, 2025 domiciled in PENNSYLVANIA, USA
The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is JAMES W ALMAND whose address is 6200 COASTAL HWY STE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-6697. 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 delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-3/26/3t _________________________________
WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON LLP
REGAN J. R. SMITH ESQ. 3509 COASTAL HWY. OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3334
OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 21071
NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Regist of Will & Clerk court of Dauphin County, Pennsylvania appointed Thomas M. Weidman, 1801 Atlantic Ave., Unit 609, Ocean City, MD 21842-3687 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Linda A. Weidman who died on January 13, 2023 domiciled in Pennsylvania, United States.
At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: Worcester.
All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.
Thomas M. Weidman 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 26, 2026
OCD-3/26/3t
SMALL ESTATE
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of CHRYSTYNE HOYER CURRY Estate No. 21062 Notice is given that RENEE LACHAT whose address is 11406 OSLO DR., TRUCKEE, CA 96161-6347 was on MARCH 17, 2026 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of CHRYSTYNE HOYER CURRY who died on FEBRUARY 22, 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.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074
OCD-3/26/1t
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of JAMES O. SHILOW Estate No. 21068 Notice is given that MARY SHILOW GRAY whose address is 13802 LAUREL ROCK CT., CLIFTON, VA 20124-2505 was on MARCH 20, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JAMES O. SHILOW who died on MARCH 06, 2026 with a will.
Further information can be ob-
tained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All 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 20th day of SEPTEMBER, 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 20th day of SEPTEMBER, 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-3/26/3t
MARIANNA BATIE ESQ. LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MOUNT HERMON RD., STE. B SALISBURY, MD 21804-5303
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of CHRISTINE MARIE KAUFMAN Estate No. 21065 Notice is given that GEORGE KAUFMAN whose address is 11 FOSSE GRANGE, BERLIN, MD 218112001 was on MARCH 19, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of CHRISTINE MARIE KAUFMAN who died on DECEMBER 21, 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 19th day of SEPTEMBER, 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 19th day of SEPTEMBER, 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-3/26/3t
Respite Care Services (Children and Adolescents)
The Worcester County Local Behavioral Health Authority (WCLBHA), requests proposals from qualified providers for Respite Care Services (Children and Adolescents) in conformity with the requirements contained in the Proposal Documents. WCLBHA seeks one (1) respite provider to deliver in-home and out-of-home respite care services for the purpose of supporting family caregivers of children and adolescents under the age of 18 years old. The Respite Care Program is to support the referral, access, and utilization of in home and out of home respite services for vendor(s)/respite provider(s) identified to serve children, adolescents, and families in three rural counties on the lower eastern shore: Somerset County, Wicomico County, and Worcester County.
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 online bid board. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their Proposals. Worcester County is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any third-party proposal service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.
A Pre-Proposal conference will be held via Google Meet on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at 10 a.m.
The last date/time for questions will be Monday, April 6, 2026, at noon.
Sealed Proposal Documents are due no later than Monday, April
21, 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 Proposal Documents cannot be accepted.
Envelopes shall be marked “Proposal Solicitation – Respite Care Services” in the lower left-hand corner.
Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for award of this solicitation.
OCD-3/26/1t
General Contractor seeking Certified MBE/WBE quotes for the following project:
BERLIN LEAD SERVICE LINE REPLACEMENT PHASE 1A
Bid Date: April 1, 2026
Bid Time: 11:00 a.m.
Work consists of replacement of approx. 84 existing water services along William Street from watermain to the proposed isolation valve within the footprint of the existing structure.
Plans and Specifications are available for review:
Teal Construction, Inc. 612 Mary Street Dover, DE 19904
Phone: (302) 678-9500
Fax: (302) 678-9715
An Equal Opportunity Employer OCD-3/26/1t
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, April 9, 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(2)(b) has been filed to request a special parking exception to the design standards to allow tandem parking of 132 parking spaces for 66 multi-family condominium units, which said parking spaces will be
conveyed together with the individual units as reserved parking, along with 49 unassigned spaces. Further a request to reduce the minimum dimensions of tandem parking spaces to be 9’ X 36’ instead of 9’ X 40’ (42’) as required by Code Section 110935(a)(1) and 110-935(i)(1). The Property is described as Lots 1 through 8, and Lots 12 through 16, Block 45 of the revised Fenwick, MD plat, Town of Ocean City, Maryland. The Property is located north of 145th Street, west of Coastal Highway MD528, and is locally known as 14501 Coastal Highway, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
APPLICANT: REGAN SMITH ESQ. FOR OC 107 146TH STREET, LLC and OC BOAT HOLDING CO. INC. (BZA 2737, #26-09400005)
AT 6:15 PM
Pursuant to the provisions of Sections 110-93(2) and 110-93(3), Powers of the Code, an application related to Section 110-95(1)(a) has been filed to (1) an after-the-fact special parking exception to reduce the depth of two (2) required parking spaces to 19.14 feet rather than 20 feet as required by Code; (2) an afterthe-fact variance of 0.68 feet from the 5-foot side yard setback for an existing covered porch to be 4.32 feet from a side lot line; (3) an after-thefact variance of 0.62 feet from the 5foot side yard setback for an existing dwelling to be 4.38 feet from a side lot line; and (4) an after-the-fact variance of 0.39 feet from the 5-foot side yard setback for an existing dwelling to be 4.61 feet from the side lot line. The Property is described as Lot 1135, Section 3, of the Montego Bay Mobile Home Park Plat. It is further described as being located on the southwest side of Beachcomber Lane and is locally known as 179 Beachcomber Lane in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
APPLICANT: SEAN AND PATRICIA CHENWORTH (BZA 2738, #26-09500001)
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-3/26/2t
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(March 27, 2026) The Berlin Fire Company provided town officials with its semiannual report this month, 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-of-town 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 time-consuming 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 to-
taled 1,286.19 hours for emergency calls and 1,498.25 hours for nonemergency 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.
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.
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(March 27, 2026) Changes to a miniature golf course on 28th Street will proceed following approval from resort planners.
On March 17, the Ocean City Planning Commission voted to approve the site plan for a remodeled of the Old Pro Golf mini golf course at 28th Street and Philadelphia Avenue.
Applicant Jeff Schoellkopf said his family’s business is seeking to relocate its parking to the back of the course and to move 11 of the 27 holes to the front of the property, closest to Philadelphia Avenue.
“We are freshening up the place,” he told the commission.
During his presentation last week, Ocean City Planning and Community Development Director George Bendler told commission members that the course was one of the city’s legacy mini golf locations. Built in 1975 as a permitted use, the golf course was reclassified as a conditional use when the district was rezoned to LC-1 in the mid-1980s.
“The project proposal does not expand or increase the nonconformity of the existing use,” he explained. “That’s why we didn’t run this through a conditional use [process], like our traditional miniature golf courses.”
As part of the family’s efforts to improve the course, Bendler said a castle on the property had been removed. Now, the
Eleven of 27 holes at Old Pro’s
operator is seeking site plan approval to move 11 of the holes to the portion of the property fronting Philadelphia Avenue.
“They want to move the golf course holes to the front to attract more activity and show off their attractions and draw people in,” he said. “The benefit to the town also is that by doing so they removed a tight curb cut here on 28th Street.”
Bendler said that the parking spaces currently situated along Philadelphia Avenue would be relocated to the back of the property, with access farther down 28th Street. He said other course elements, including the ticketing booths
and tent, will remain as is.
“They are just adding to the property,” he said.
For his part, Schoellkopf noted that he is seeking to improve the course, located on property his family leased. He said the amusement would continue to have 27 holes with the required parking but would feature updates and stormwater improvements.
“We are taking a lot that’s paved into something that’s half pervious,” he added.
Schoellkopf said the plan is to remodel the golf course after the summer. After further discussion, the commission
voted unanimously to approve site plan, with the condition that the operator label an alley running behind the property as a public alley.
“That alley will be beholden to a public right-of-way, so it can’t be blocked as a fire lane,” Bendler said.
The planning commission last week also approved a site plan submitted by Fager’s Island Ltd. Representing the company as the project architect, Schoellkopf said the owner has plans to enclose an outdoor seating area, which would require 13 additional deed-dedicated parking spaces.
“In our current parking code, we do a
very nice job of requiring restaurants to have their outdoor space not count towards parking,” Bendler added. “The applicant before you tonight wants to enclose this area, and they have a suitable amount of parking on an offsite location that is within 600 feet – to enclose the area and make that a more suitable place for yearround enjoyment of their establishments.”
Schoellkopf agreed.
“In the summer, the plan is to leave this wide open,” he added. “But under the code … if the porch is more than 50% enclosed under the zoning code, you need to provide parking.”
16x12 Bedroom and 11x8 Bath. The 3rd level has a loft area, 2 bedrooms and a full bath.
County proposes fee hikes for 10 enterprise accounts in FY27, controller reports
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(March 27, 2026) Worcester County’s water and sewer accounts are still operating collectively in the red, despite proposed fee increases for the next fiscal year and a $1.1 million subsidy from the county.
Base fees would increase by 5% for 10 of the county’s 11 sanitary sewer enterprise funds, according to a fiscal year 2027 budget proposal from Enterprise Fund Controller Quinn Dittrich. Rates for the West Ocean City district would not change.
“Last year was a big hit to a lot of people,” Dittrich told OC Today-Dispatch. “So, this year, while it is still an unsustainable increase, most of these areas are still operating in a deficit. It’s a steppingstone into the right direction of getting these funds to be where they need to be.”
Enterprise funds generate their own revenue from user rates and operate independently of the county’s general fund. This year’s enterprise budget, however, proposes $1,116,908 in subsidies from the county’s general fund for select districts that requested support, accord-
ing to Dittrich. Those include The Landings, Riddle Farm, and River Run.
Other budgeted subsidies are tied to capital requests, like large purchase orders for chemicals. Whether those subsidies would be treated as a loan is up to the commissioners, Dittrich also said.
The average percentage increase for The Landings district is driven primarily by a 57.5% increase in the Lewis Road water fee, from $60 per quarter to $94.50.
Dittrich said the county is planning next to bid out a rate study, where a third-party adviser not only would evaluate their rate needs but offer suggestions on building capital reserves.
Overall, the FY27 enterprise fund budget calls for a 7% increase, or $1.3 million in projected revenue. Expenses are budgeted to increase by 3%, or $617,000.
“You’re outweighing your expenses, but you’re still operating at deficits. So, the expenses are still there. We kept it as lean as possible while being efficient as possible,” Dittrich said.
The proposed water-sewer budget arrives in the shadow of a multimillion-dollar financial crisis that forced the county to fundamentally restructure its enterprise fund oversight and billing.
Two years ago, the county commissioners learned of a systemic financial crisis in its water-sewer enterprise funds, where seven of 11 sewerage accounts were operating in a deep deficit, one that had ballooned for years.
The bad news came to light after a new budget officer was appointed and learned of the negligence: a former enterprise fund controller had been covering losses by taking cashflow from profitable areas to cover failing ones. Dittrich was hired as a replacement enterprise fund controller.
One major expense that added millions to the deficit involved the cost of trucking sludge from the outof-commission Riddle Farm plant, where the filtration system had failed, to the Ocean Pines facility. That expense was never reflected in user rates.
To address the immediate shortfall, the county opted to stabilize the enterprise account by transferring $9.1 million from the general fund,
most of which was structured as a loan to be repaid by ratepayers over ten years.
An unpopular pitch for a universal rate hike was scrapped in favor of making each district self-sustaining, but that led to dramatic rate hikes where many customers saw quarterly bills double or even triple last year. Instead, each service area saw a rate hike commensurate with its individual needs and usage.
Standards for household usage, known as equivalent dwelling units, or EDUs, also were lowered to 250 gallons per day for residential and commercial customers. That eliminated fixture-based billing for residents and removed discounted rate tiers for commercial customers.
Dittrich said, moving forward, another complaint to be addressed was giving customers adequate notice of changes being made. He said upcoming April bills for the county’s roughly 18,000 customers will include an insert with public meeting dates and a website address with more information.
By Lauren Bunting
Contributing Writer
(March 27, 2026) One of the more recent National Association of REALTORS Consumer Guides focuses on deepfake real estate scams. NAR explains cyber-enabled fraud— use of the internet or other technology to steal money, data or identity—accounted for $13.7 billion in 2024, according to data released by the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).
NAR’s Consumer Guide said among cybercrimes, the use of deepfake technology is a growing concern. Deepfake scams increased 40% year-over-year, according to the 2026 Identity Fraud Report by security firm Entrust. Entrust defines deepfakes as “realistic, AI-generated fake videos, images or audio recordings that mimic a real person’s likeness.”
Scammers might use deepfake-generated audio or video to impersonate buyers, sellers, real estate agents, real estate lawyers, title agents or other professionals. By pretending to be real
(March 27, 2026) March 29 in Ocean City will have a special meaning for servicemen and women who served during the era of the war in Vietnam, 1955-1975, including the women who served as nurses.
That’s when Chapter 1091 of the Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) and the Associates of Vietnam Veterans of America (AVVA) will observe “Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day”, at American Legion Post 166, from 1-3 p.m.
Organized as a grassroots effort by a Vietnam veteran in 1973, Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day was proclaimed a special day in 2017 by President Donald Trump. He made it an official day of observance when he signed the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act of 2017, declaring it a day of national gratitude to honor all who served, including those who were wounded, missing, or killed in that war.
As they have done in past years, VVA 1091 and AVVA 1091 will host a casual gathering at Post 166, from 1-3 p.m. Attendees will be served light refreshments and share conversations and memorabilia with servicemen and women who were on active duty, anywhere, between November 1, 1955 and May 15, 1975.
If you are planning to attend, please RSVP to V.V.A. Chapter 1091 President Bob Gilmore at opbobgil@aol.com.
people involved in a real estate transaction, criminals can change the wiring or money transfer instructions to divert down payments or closing funds to their own bank accounts. They can also manipulate property photos or virtual tours to hide defects, exaggerate home features or even fabricate nonexistent properties to sell to unsuspecting buyers.
To protect yourself, NAR offers the following tips:
Work with trusted professionals, like a real estate agent who’s a REALTOR®, a member of NAR
Use a secure messaging system or encrypted emails (rather than a free email account) when communicating about a real estate transaction.
Try to avoid entering into a transac-
tion on a property you haven’t seen in person or with a buyer or seller who communicates only electronically.
Independently verify property documents and ownership through title companies and trusted parties.
Ask for multifactor authentication before transferring funds or signing important documents. Many companies are now using a third-party verification tool.
Invest in fraud-detection tools that can detect deepfakes by analyzing facial movements in videos, voice anomalies and inconsistencies in digital images.
Consider investing in an owner’s title policy to safeguard against record fraud. The insurance protects you against forged deeds, fraudulent liens and fake owners.
To verify instructions for wiring funds, always talk to the party who’s receiving the funds by phone on a known number, or meet in person. Any urgent change in instructions—whether delivered through an email, audio message or a video call—is a red flag.
If you suspect a deepfake scam, NAR suggests you contact everyone involved in your transaction (real estate agent, lawyer, title company) to alert them to the suspected fraud so that they can exercise extra caution. You can also contact your local and state law enforcement and report the incident to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).
Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record for Keller Williams Realty Delmarva in Ocean City, Maryland.
■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$
■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted
South end to 28th Street
■ BUXY’S SALTY DOG SALOON
DRY DOCK 28
28th Street, Ocean City, 410-289-0973, buxys.com, drydockoc.com
Destiny has a new home in Ocean City. From the ‘burgh to the beach, Buxy’s is your home away from Pittsburgh. Come see what all the locals already know and have known – Buxy’s is the place to come to meet friends, relax and be social with no attitudes. House specialties include “The” Cheesesteak Sub, Primanti-styled sandwiches, pierogis, egg-rolls and homemade crab dip. Dry Dock also features a full menu with soups, salads, kick starters, pierogis and craft pizza.
■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE
15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, in The Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City 410-2897192, captainstableoc.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
A local tradition for over 60 years featuring hand cut steaks, premium lobster and perfectly prepared regional seafood. Breakfast daily 7:30-11 a.m. Open daily for dinner: Sunday through Thursday, 4-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4-10 p.m. Happy Hour, seven days a week, 4-6 p.m.
■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT
28th Street Plaza and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100, www.coinspuboc.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
American style local restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. Sunday’s early bird specials, all day and all night. Happy Hour; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. with food and drink specials. Open Monday through Friday, 2 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 11:30 a.m. Dinein, carry out.
■ CORAL REEF RESTAURANT & BAR
17th Street in the Holiday Inn & Suites, Ocean City 410-289-2612, coralreefrestaurant.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Enjoy traditional Eastern Shore cuisine and local favorites that are sure to please your entire party! Choose from a selection of house specialty entrees such as sharables, handhelds and seafood. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Featuring specialty rums. Open daily, 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
■ DISTRICT 24: BLUE CRABHOUSE& RAW BAR, JAY’S CAFÉ, CRAFT BEER & 1945 STEAK & SEAFOOD HOUSE
2305 Philadelphia Ave, Ocean City 410289-3322, district24oc.com
$$-$$$ | Reservations | Kids’ Menu | Full bar
Nestled on 24th Street Bayside in Ocean City, Maryland, District 24 stands as one destination brimming with endless possibilities. On the first floor, Blu Crabhouse & Raw Bar invites you to indulge in all-you-can-eat blue crabs, easy-peel shrimp, golden fried chicken, and so much more, while Jay’s Café serves breakfast sandwiches all day alongside La Colombe coffee, fresh pastries, and delicious lunch creations. Just steps away, CRAFT Bar delivers smash burgers, crispy wings, craft pizzas, an impressive selection of craft beer, handcrafted cocktails, and more. Rising above it all on the third floor, the stunning new 1945 Steak & Seafood offers breathtaking rooftop views, in-house hand-cut chops, exceptional seafood favorites, vibrant Mediterranean cuisine, and thoughtful bourbon and wine pairings. Let’s face it—there’s simply more at District 24.
■ HARBOR WATCH
806 S. Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City 410289-5121, www.harborwatchrestaurant.com
$$-$$$ | Reservations | Kids’ Menu | Full bar
Celebrating our 42nd year with fresh seafood, an award-winning raw bar, mouthwatering steaks and the best view of the Ocean City Inlet and Assateague Island. Open all March, Thursday through Sunday. Sunday
Brunch, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (excluding Easter), $29 for adults, $16 for children 6-12 years. Happy Hour: Thursday and Sunday, all night long featuring $4 all beer, $8 crushes, $10 select apps, $6 glass of select wine. Call for banquet and large-party details.
■ PICKLES PUB
706 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 410289-4891, picklesoc.com
$$ | 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.
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
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Open Sunday through Friday at 11 a.m., 10 a.m. on Saturdays, close at 2 a.m. Enjoy a tropical atmosphere and dine under the palms in our outdoor, kid friendly dining area or try a Seacrets Beachin' Cocktails in the Bay with live music every day open to close. The club is open every night in the summer. Try our famous jerk chicken with homemade honey mustard sauce, Pushcart Trio, a true Jamaican dish or a hearty wrap, sandwich or delicious burger. We have it all at Seacrets.
302-539-3020, Beach-net.com/dirtyharrys
$ | Kids’ Menu | Full bar
Don’t let the name fool you, the food is home cooking at its finest. Owned and operated by Ginny Swann and family for 19 years. Popular for the breakfast but getting rave reviews for lunch and dinner, too.
■ NANTUCKETS
Route 1, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-5392607, nantucketsrestaurant.com
Serving the beach great food and spirits for over 30 years. David and Janet Twining will wow you with the finest foods and drinks in the area. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by what one of the coast’s finest dining establishments has in store for guests. Everything here is a house specialty.
■ TWINING’S LOBSTER SHANTY Closed - Reopens March 11 Rte. 54, Fenwick Island, Del., 302-4362305, twiningshanty.com
Reservations | Kids’ Menu “A funky little place at the edge of town.” Classic New England fare, lobsters, steaks and burgers. Bird watching and magical sunsets await. Open for lunch and dinner. Reservations are suggested.
■ ASSATEAGUE BAR AND GRILL 9636 Stephen Decatur Highway, West Ocean City 443-664-8158, abarngrill.com
$$ | Full bar
■ 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.
■ DIRTY HARRY’S
100 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island, DE,
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
$$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar
Ocean City’s newest Mexican restaurant and bar. Offering delicious and generous portions of the tastiest traditional and not so traditional #MexicanEats you have ever tried. Open everyday, 12 noon to 9 p.m., kitchen and bar.
■ DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND
West Ocean City: Route 50 east; Boardwalk locations: 501 S. Philadelphia Ave., 49th Street, 123rd Street, Ocean City, dumsersdairyland.com
This classic ice cream shop is a tradition for many families. Voted O.C.’s “Best Ice Cream” for the past 20 years, Dumser’s is celebrating decades of serving the shore, and the ‘40s-style décor takes you back in time. With locations throughout Ocean City, treating your tastebuds to this signature homemade ice cream is easy. The 123rd Street location offers lunch and dinner menus in addition to a wide variety of ice cream treats.
■ GREENE TURTLE WEST
Route 611, West Ocean City, 410-213-1500
Proudly serving West Ocean City since January 1999, The Greene Turtle features a beautiful 80-seat dining room, large bar area with 54 TVs with stereo sound and game room with pool tables. With an exciting menu, The Greene Turtle is sure to please with delicious sizzling steaks, jumbo lump crab cakes, raw bar, homemade salads and more. Live entertainment, Keno, Turtle apparel, kids menu, carry-out.
■ HARBORSIDE BAR & GRILL
12841 Harbor Rd., West Ocean City, 410213-1846, weocharborside.com
$$ | 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.
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(March 27, 2026) Ocean City officials this week agreed to allow cannabis advertising for certain events, provided that the promoter follows state law and local guidelines.
During Tuesday’s work session, the City Council voted 5-0, with Councilman John Gehrig absent, to allow cannabis advertising and sponsorships for over-21 special events.
However, event organizers will be expected to follow state law when it comes to restrictions and city practice when it comes to promoting consumption.
“I think that’s probably the most reasonable approach at this time,” Council President Matt James said, “is to treat it like alcohol and make sure that the state guidelines are followed.”
During his presentation this week, City Manager Terry McGean said it has been a long-standing city policy to prohibit any advertising pertaining to cannabis or cannabis products.
However, he said the city has since been approached by OC Rock and Ride promoters Matt and Tyler Odachowski – whose family owns and operates the Positive Energy dispensary in West Ocean City – with a request to allow the business as an event sponsor.
“We have also had, over the recent years, as cannabis has been made legal – first for medicinal use and then for recreational use – we have had similar requests for others,” he added, “whether it be for cannabis or for other CBD products.”
Interested in getting more information more quickly than our weekly OC Today-Dispatch delivers? Our five-daysa-week digital newsletter might be just what you need.
We have developed an in-your-morning-email product (with updates for breaking news) and invite you to give it a try.
If you sign up now, you’ll get a free three-month trial subscription, to what will become available by paid subscription only for a nominal charge. How nominal? $1 a month or $10 a year to cover our production costs. Sign up and get three months free by emailing subscriptions@octodaydispatch. com or visit the OC Today-Dispatch online.
While the city does not allow cannabis-related advertising, McGean told council members this week that it does allow alcohol advertising. However, those ads cannot promote the consumption of alcohol.
“I know that's a little bit of a fine line …,” he said. “You can show the Budweiser logo but you can’t promote chugging Budweiser out of a beer bong, to take it to an extreme.”
McGean also highlighted state law regulating cannabis advertising. One restriction, he said, prohibited ads from being in fully public spaces.
“It cannot be shown in areas that are readily available to people under 21,” he explained. “So you can promote these products, but it has to be at an over-21 event.”
With that said, the council voted to allow cannabis advertising and sponsorships for over-21 events, in accordance with state law. The same city guidelines for alcohol would apply to cannabis ads.
“So if you want to do this with cannabis, we would suggest following the same or similar guidelines and then also you have the additional restrictions that the state applies,” McGean said.
by Steve Green
full circle week for sure.
In March of 1993, I traveled with my fellow high school seniors to the United Kingdom, with stops in London, Coventry and Brighton. It was one of those trips that, at the time, felt like a big adventure but, looking back, was a marker in time, a snapshot of youth just before life truly begins to unfold. Hardcopy photos in one of those handheld albums serve as today’s evidence.
Last week, 33 years later, I had the chance to take a similar trip — this time not as a student, but as a father, alongside my 17-year-old senior, Beckett, and his classmates.
This will be a trip I will never forget, and I can only hope he feels the same. We saw a lot, did a lot, and maybe most importantly, we were together — truly together — for an extended period of time – on bus, train, subway, plane and by foot.
When I really think about it, I can’t recall a week when I was with my son this much. Even when we vacation now, we do different things as he seeks his independence.
Sure, we live under the same roof and cross paths daily, but modern life has a way of making even the closest relationships feel scheduled. He goes to school. I work. We catch each other in the mornings, maybe exchange a few words in the evenings, often while one of us is heading somewhere else. During the summer, it can be even less. Work ramps up for both of us, schedules fill, and the days seem to slip by with quick check-ins rather than real time together.
But this trip slowed everything down. Maybe it’s because I’m entering what I jokingly call my “soft and fuzzy” era as the parent of a high school senior, but I found myself appreciating the shared experiences in a deeper way. I’ve always believed life is about experiences and the memories we make, but this week reinforced that belief in a way that felt personal and immediate. It wasn’t really about the material
things. It wasn’t about the meals, the shows, the museums or the castles — although all of those were impressive and worthwhile.
It was about the hike up Arthur’s Seat in Scotland, where the wind and view reminded you to pause long enough to take it all in. It was about experiencing Hamilton together, watching his reactions, sharing glances during certain moments, and knowing we were both taking something a little different — but equally meaningful — from it.
Those are the moments that stick.
I’m not going to remember the rubber duck blowing a bagpipe that we both sought as a souvenir for my Jeeploving wife, even though it made me laugh at the time and felt like a perfect, quirky souvenir. But I will always cherish the Abbey Road Studios crosswalk photos, not because they’re particularly special on their own, but because of what they represent — a memory shared with my fellow chaperones and my son and a lesson on The Beatles.
I will not have lasting memories of the early-morning wake-up calls, the rushing to make buses, or the occasional travel fatigue that comes with packed itineraries. Those moments tend to fade, as they should.
But I will always remember a situation that unfolded in the theater during Hamilton. A student had a fear of heights and was struggling with our peaked seats in the back row. What followed was a series of conversations, problem-solving, and ultimately a decision to move. Somehow, I found myself in the ninth row with that student — and Beckett right next to me. We laughed how things turned out.
It wasn’t just about the better seats. It was about being there together in that moment, about helping someone through something difficult, and about sharing an experience that became more meaningful because of it.
The endless rides on the “Tube” won’t stand out in my memory years from now. They were necessary, routine, part of getting from one place to another. But what will stay with me are
the conversations in between stops, the quiet observations, the occasional laughter, and the simple act of being side by side without distraction.
And then there was the steep, 200step staircases we traversed together. It wasn’t on the itinerary as a “highlight,” but it became one anyway. Watching students — and a few determined chaperones — take on that climb, encouraging each other, catching their breath, and celebrating at the top, was a reminder of the energy and spirit that defines this age.
There’s another part of this stage of parenting that hits differently.
You begin to see your child not just as your kid, but as a young adult navigating the world. You watch how they interact, how they handle situations, how they carry themselves. There’s a quiet pride in seeing them do well, mixed with a subtle awareness these shared moments are becoming less frequent.
That’s probably what made this trip feel so significant.
A reminder to slow down when possible. A reminder to value time together when it presents itself. A reminder that while the big events are exciting, it’s often the in-between moments that become the most meaningful.
And maybe most of all, it was a reminder of how quickly it all moves. In 1993, I was the kid on the trip, taking it all in without fully understanding how much it would mean later. In 2026, I was the father, watching my son experience something similar, while quietly recognizing just how special it was.
That’s what makes it a full circle moment.
And if I’m lucky, years from now, Beckett will look back on this trip the same way I look back on mine — not just as a great experience, but as a moment in time that stayed with him, and us, long after the trip itself ended.
(The writer is the executive editor of OC Today-Dispatch. He and his wife, Pamela, are proud parents of two boys. This weekly column examines their transition into parenthood and all that goes along with it. E-mail any thoughts to editor@octodaydispatch.com.)
By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer
(March 27, 2026) Beach replenishment is a topic that pervades our ocean community. It might not be at the forefront of government officials’, visitors’ and residents’ minds but it’s a good bet that it comes up in the back of peoples’ minds of those who care.
There’s an extensive article in the January 23, 2026, edition of this newspaper. The main gist of the story is the cost of the next round of replenishment. Pending any emergency work, the schedule is for beach replenishment to occur every four years. The last replenishment was done in 2021. 2025’s work wasn’t done due to the lack of fund appropriations. The next target date for replenishment is the fall of this year if President Trump will sign off on a bill that has already been approved by the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate. Trump has been known for unpredictability, so we’ll see what happens. For the taxpayer the cost of the possible upcoming replenishment will be roughly double what it was in 2021. It’s probable that any future replenishment projects will come with a cost increase. For the surfer, beach replenishment produces a general, if not specific, lack of quality waves. It’s dangerous when a heaving, breaking wave dissipates right on the shoreline. Overall, the benefit is worth the cost. Nobody wants to see this town wash away. In my view, wisdom would dictate a method to keep the replenished sand in place and not have to bear the repeated cost of future replenishment. Maybe a few long groins placed strategically along the shoreline and out to sea could be a solution. Hopefully a more permanent answer can be implemented.
Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City
ing before taking in a child, allowing placements to happen faster. Other minor policy changes – bunk beds, once prohibited, are now allowed –are also expediting approvals.
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(March 27, 2026) Maryland social services officials say the number of Worcester County foster children placed with relatives and trusted adults has surged in recent months, a change they attribute to new financial support for caregivers and a broader definition of who qualifies as “family.”
“We’ve seen that children thrive when they can be with family and in their community,” said Becky Rice, director of out-of-home care for the state’s Department of Human Services.
Before Maryland expanded its “kinship care” policy in October 2024, just four of the county’s 26 children in out-of-home care, about 15%, were placed with relatives. By January, that figure had climbed to 20 of 31 children, or roughly 65%, according to state data.
Officials say the increase is the result of several changes working at once, including expanded eligibility for kinship caregivers, streamlined licensing rules, and new software that helps caseworkers identify family connections more quickly.
Kinship caregivers now don’t have to complete full foster-parent train-
Worcester County’s increase mirrors a broader statewide trend: 11 counties in Maryland have doubled their kinship placement rates over the past year, and Worcester saw one of the largest increases.
“We need more children placed with kin because we recognize that, compared to other states, our number of children placed with kin wasn’t where it could be,” Rice said.
In the child welfare system, “kinship care” means placing children with relatives or other adults they already know, rather than with licensed foster families who are strangers.
Maryland’s 2024 kinship care law expanded who can qualify as a “kin.” It now allows social workers to place children not only with blood relatives, but also with trusted adults like neighbors, teachers, or family friends.
Officials say children placed with kin experience fewer disruptions. In one case cited by state officials, a child was placed with a teacher who volunteered to open her home – a placement that would not have been allowed under previous rules.
“Even when you have the best social worker and the best support system, it is still incredibly traumatic,
even for our younger kids,” Rice said. “This is not a knock on foster families at all, but it’s much less traumatic when you come into foster care and you can be placed with somebody you know, that connection to your family and your culture and your community.”
Kinship caregivers are now eligible for a $900 “monthly care stipend” per child. Social services officials said this change removes a major financial hurdle for eligible foster families.
At the same time, a new software tool called Binti helps caseworkers pinpoint potential kin in minutes by scouring databases for family connections, a process that used to take weeks of manual outreach.
While children typically enter foster care as a result of investigations into abuse or neglect, officials em-
phasized that they want to keep children and parents together whenever possible, and that removal from a home is a last resort.
Still, not every child has a suitable relative available, and traditional foster families remain an essential part of the system.
In Worcester County, the changes are noticeable for the four social workers and one resource home worker, according to social worker Zoey Diskin.
She noted that the job, while fulfilling, can be unpredictable and involves early mornings, late nights, and sometimes travel across the state.
“It really depends on the needs of the children, and that’s what we go by,” Diskin said. “We just do the best we can to support the kids.”
Consultant praises resort’s low debt, high bond rating, and robust savings account
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(March 27, 2026) A review of credit ratings, financial performance, and debt service shows Ocean City government continues to maintain a strong financial footing.
On Tuesday, Pam Kelly, director for First Tryon Advisors, the city’s financial advisor, presented the City Council with a report on the local government’s financial health. She noted that the municipality continues to demonstrate strong financial management, with large reserves and a low debt percentage.
“I think overall the town is in a very good financial position and certainly well-positioned to fund future capital improvement projects that are planned,” she said.
During her presentation, Kelly pointed out that the city has bond ratings of Aa1, AA+ and AA, the secondhighest ratings among the top credit rating agencies. When asked if it was possible for a resort to get a triple-A
rating, she said it was not likely, given the city’s small population, environmental risks and heavy reliance on tourism.
“I think when you’re heavily dependent on tourism, obviously you are subject to the economic downtowns and what have you,” she explained.
Kelly also reviewed the city’s finances. Since fiscal year 2021, the city’s general fund revenues have increased by 22%, while general fund expenditures have increased by 37%. Overall, the city’s total general fund balances has increased by roughly $8 million, or 24%.
“Generally, things are trending upward and looking positive for the town,” she said.
Kelly also reviewed the budget to actual numbers. She said that expenditures have been under budget, while revenues have increased.
“That’s obviously trickled down to a change in the fund balance, which is positive,” she said.
In terms of assessed values, Kelly said real property values have increased by $1.5 billion since 2021. As a result, she said the city’s tax base has increased by approximately
2.15%.
“So it’s certainly heading in the right direction there and continues to grow with all the building that seems to be going on,” she said.
Kelly also reviewed the city’s unassigned fund balance. While the city’s policy sets a minimum fund balance at 17% of expenditures, it currently has a balance at around 28%.
“That equates to about $18.3 million at 17%, and there you are at $29.8 [million],” she said. “So certainly a good cushion there for future projects, or however the council de-
cides to use those funds.”
In an overview of the city’s debt, Kelly said city government has $155 million in outstanding bond debt, in addition to other leases and intergovernmental loans. She said the city’s debt represents 0.4% of assessed value and 6.5% of expenditures, or well within the parameters set by officials.
“I think all in all, these ratios indicate that the town is well-positioned to withstand any economic downturns and any unexpected events that may occur,” she concluded.
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
A project you have been working on some time finally reaches a successful conclusion, Aries. Enjoy the benefits that comes from it and take a wellearned bow.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, sensory delights might fill your week. Good food, music and company are your rewards. Enjoy everything and savor each moment.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
A long-awaited response brings a smile to your face, Gemini. It is just the news you were hoping for, and maybe even better than you expected. Now you can move forward with confidence.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Cancer, when you meet a new group of people in the days to come, you might feel a profound sense of belonging. Your heart will be full and you’ll be encouraged to socialize more.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, the spotlight may find you this week. Enjoy the praise that is bestowed on you. You have earned it through your consistent effort. Someone with influence may come into your circle.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
Clarity about your life’s direction brings a sense of calm, Virgo. While you once were floundering, now you know exactly where you are going and the steps necessary to get there.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Libra, your social life may be buzzing right now. It will prove to be a week of laughter, reunions and shared memories if this social energy manifests fully.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
A personal mystery that has been bugging you may be solved this week, Scorpio. The truth might bring you freedom and a sense of empowerment. It also will free up your mind.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
You don’t have to travel too far from home to satisfy your wanderlust, Sagittarius. A weekend getaway or midweek escape might be all that’s needed to bring refreshment.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
This week you likely will meet a professional or personal milestone that you’ve been working toward for some time, Capricorn. Celebrate the steady climb you have made.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
Authenticity is the key to driving more people into your social circle, Aquarius. It also will attract new opportunities. Don’t be afraid to be “you.”
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
Pisces, this week you will settle a debt of some kind, freeing you up for new opportunities. It will leave you feeling lighter and ready for any new chapters ahead.
Last month, Mrs. Jankowski and Mrs. Purnell's 4th grade classes had the opportunity to meet with Mayor Zack Tyndall of the Town of Berlin, Maryland, to discuss the annual Maryland Municipal League’s “If I Were Mayor, I Would…” essay contest. At Worcester Preparatory School (WPS), participating in this essay contest has evolved into a cherished tradition. This year's theme, “90 Years Strong: Where Tradition Meets Innovation,” encourages students to identify a tradition they value in their community and imagine how, as mayor, they would carry that tradition 90 years into the future.
The Eastern Shore Literacy Association recently held its 2026 Young Author's Contest at Stephen Decatur High School. Evelyn Justice, a secondgrade student at Ocean City Elementary School, received a first-place trophy for her short story "Toy-Making Day." During the awards ceremony, Justice also learned that she is a state finalist and her story has placed in the top two in her respective category.
The Ocean City-Berlin Rotary Club recently installed its newest member, Melissa Lentz. Pictured, from left, are Gina Shaffer, Melissa's sponsor and Melissa Lentz. The club meets the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month at the Ocean Pines Library.
With Bunk Mann
Softball was a popular sport in Ocean City in the 1970s and early ‘80s and many local establishments sponsored teams. Both men’s and women’s teams played for trophies, fun, and bragging rights. The games drew large crowds and the skill level of the players was incredibly high.
Games were played on the old city ballfields between 3rd and 4th Streets. Some of the team sponsors read like a page from an Ocean City history book – Mario’s, the Jackspot, Phillips Crab House, and the Paddock. An Irish House team from the late 1970s is pictured.
To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com. Photo image courtesy Bob Jones
By Steve Green
Meeting new people
Easter week services
Southern exposure views
A reasonable disagreement
Upsets in the women’s tourney
60 Minutes when it’s objective
When my tournament bracket does not need to be tossed after the first weekend
Reducing a monthly bill
Days without a lot of emails
A church service with a lot of kids
Boardwalk biking mornings
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(March 26, 2026) As the Town of Berlin prepares to vacate Town Hall for upcoming renovations, officials this week approved plans to label a wide range of items as surplus property and offer them to the public through a sale aligned with the town-wide yard sale scheduled for April 4.
At Monday's Town Council meeting, Town Administrator Mary Bohlen said staff are still identifying items to be included. Furniture to be added to the sale consists of file cabinets, tables, chairs, and other miscellaneous goods.
“Usually, we like to have a detailed list, but unfortunately, every day we’re coming across things and going, ‘Oh, we forgot about interior doors,’ or whatever,” Bohlen said. “The best we can do at this point is say we are cataloging things as we go, and the intent is to hold a yard sale, or along with the town yard sale.”
The town plans to open Town Hall to the public for a walk-through pre-
view on Thursday, April 2, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., allowing potential buyers to view available items ahead of the community yard sale scheduled for that weekend.
A social media post announcing the event states that those interested in touring the Town Hall should call 410-641-4314 or email mbohlen@berlinmd.gov to schedule a time to view the surplus property.
However, the April 4 sale will operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Viewing the articles on Thursday does not guarantee purchase on Saturday.
but we also don’t want to have to take it to the landfill at the end of the day, which is what we have to do,” Tyndall said. “Make an offer, as long as it's reasonable. If it's $1 and we think we can get $10, we’ll try to get $10. But we also know that public works will have to take everything we can’t sell to the landfill. And then we’re going to have to pay to get rid of it.”
Councilmember Dean Burrell expressed his concern about underselling usable items.
‘We spend money with the utmost diligence, as if it were coming from our own pockets.’
Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall said the effort is designed both to clear out the building and to capitalize on increased foot traffic during the event.
Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall
“We are trying to maximize the fact that community yard salers will be out,” Tyndall said.
The mayor added that costs will be flexible, but that the municipality will still aim to get the best price. However, he maintained that whatever cannot be repurposed by the town and is not sold by the end of the day will be thrown away.
“We are trying to get the best price,
April 6 to allow contractors to begin work.
Furthermore, resident Carol Rose asked that the municipality, where possible, maintain items to keep costs low when furnishing the renovated Town Hall.
“Please be careful with our money,” she said. “…people cannot afford to have their taxes go up anymore.”
“I don’t want things walking out that have some value for just a few dollars,” he said.
“...The value is what someone is willing to pay.”
Officials emphasized that not everything will be sold or thrown out. Items in good condition or with future use will be retained and either reused in the renovated Town Hall or repurposed for other departments.
“If a door can be reused, we are saving it; it will not be labeled as surplus…the chairs for the council meeting, they’re being retained. We are trying to reuse where we can,” Tyndall said.
The town staff and all interior furniture must vacate the building by
Tyndall said that the town is working closely with its architect to evaluate what can be reused and is taking a careful approach to spending.
“We spend money with the utmost diligence, as if it were coming from our own pockets,” he said. “Because ultimately it is, from our own taxes.”
The council unanimously approved the surplus declaration and sale plan, with Councilmember Shaneka Nichols absent.
The effort comes as Berlin moves forward with a major Town Hall renovation project. In February, the council awarded a $3.15 million construction contract to contractor Keller Brothers for the initiative.
The project includes buildingsystem upgrades and the addition of an elevator. Staff is required to temporarily vacate the building while construction is underway.
If there’s one thing that Ocean City produces plenty of it’s irony, and that’s certainly true this week as the mayor and City Council found themselves wrestling with past perceptions versus current circumstances.
In one situation, the council agreed to allow cannabis advertising at certain events. This was hardly a bold move since cannabis is legal, concern for the underage population notwithstanding.
Still, it does seem strange that the council had to discuss the appropriateness of accepting dispensary advertising at all, considering that a sizeable portion of the resort economy is based on the consumption of a different mind-altering substance — alcohol. It’s hard to see a difference between the two, really, other than in the area of social acceptance.
Meanwhile, the city is engaged in litigation in the Appellate Court of Maryland, where a property owner is challenging the city’s rejection of his request to open a cannabis dispensary on Philadelphia Avenue.
The plaintiff alleges that the zoning restriction cited in the denial of his request is ridiculously broad and certainly much more restrictive than limits placed on the locations where liquor, beer and wine may be purchased.
Considering just how many alcohol license holders there are in this town, it’s difficult to see how the city’s legal team can argue that the negative effect of one cannabis dispensary would be greater than all the drinking establishments combined.
Like it or not, there aren’t degrees of legal in Ocean City. The law doesn’t say cannabis is somewhat legal while bourbon straight up is fully legal. And try as it might to argue this is about zoning and not specifically about the old perception of cannabis being the outlaw weed, it won’t work.
The aging population of Ocean City might not like it, but the times have been changing and it’s one of those things people will just have to accept.
At last, the moment I’ve been waiting for has arrived. It’s the beginning of Peep season, which means it’s time for immature adults like me who want to recapture that young and carefree feeling to pop a marshmallow Peep into the microwave.
NEWS
EDITOR STEWART DOBSON; EXECUTIVE EDITOR STEVE GREEN
ASSOCIATE EDITOR BETHANY HOOPER
STAFF WRITERS TARA FISCHER, BRIAN SHANE
Contact News Room: editor@octodaydispatch.com SALES
ACCOUNT MANAGERS MARY COOPER, TERRI FRENCH, RENEE KELLY
CLASSIFIEDS/LEGALS PAMELA GREEN
Contact Sales: sales@octodaydispatch.com PRODUCTION
ART DIRECTOR COLE GIBSON; SENIOR PAGE DESIGNER SUSAN PARKS
SENIOR AD DESIGNER KELLY BROWN ADMINISTRATION
PUBLISHER/CONTROLLER CHRISTINE BROWN
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT GINI TUFTS
Web: octodaydispatch.com ~ Facebook: www.facebook.com/octodaydispatch
OC Today-Dispatch is published Fridays by FLAG Publications, Inc. 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 410-723-6397 All content copyright 2026
By Stewart Dobson
Oh yeah, there’s nothing quite like puffing up a Peep to restore that devil-may-care attitude you enjoyed when you were 12.
It’s seems so wrong, yet is so harmless (well, almost) to puff up a Peep privately on full power in your kitchen.
But here’s a startling piece of news: a consumer research company’s poll of (hard-working) Americans has found that trouble may lie ahead for the American Peep industry.
The disturbing fact is that Americans are divided over the value of Peeps and their contributions to society’s well-being.
According to Curion Insights, only about 50 percent of Americans believe that Peeps are doing a good job for the American people. The others, apparently, see them as lazy marshmallow so-and-sos who are soft on everything, I guess.
While it is true that a 50% approval rating is considered pretty respectable in most areas, it is hardly cause for celebration in Peep circles, or Peepdom.
Once believed to be universally loved and
admired (especially by dentists), Peeps have inexplicably fallen out of favor, and it may be due to appearances.
The baby chick Peeps have undergone a major transformation in recent years. These days, they look like they were hatched by French Impressionist artists as opposed to the older, more traditional version that met the main requirement of all Easter animal candy — having a head you could bite off.
Form follows function, I say, and today’s Peeps are so streamlined that they’re like members of Congress: you can’t tell where their heads end and their rear-ends begin.
In other words, if modern Peeps wore trousers, they would be hiked up to what we used to call “the creep level,” which is otherwise described as a height that makes the wearer look like a torso-challenged dweeb (synonyms: nerd, dork, geek or crayoneater).
Back in the day, the candy chickens had little Peep waists, but now their midsections are gone and they’re all head and ... you know.
Nevertheless, their reimagined shape notwithstanding, Peeps are still about 75% sugar, which means they absolutely will ignite into big gooey mess if you aren’t paying attention and let them go too long in the microwave.
That’s pretty cool in its own right, but just to be safe, veteran Peep puffers recommend that adults who wish to indulge in this oncea-year experiment should only do so when accompanied by a responsible juvenile.
By Steve Green
The Maryland Municipal League and the Maryland Association of Counties have both called House Bill 1142 a top-priority legislative matter this year. The legislation seeks to create a “task force to modernize county and municipal revenue structures,” in an attempt to diversify how governments receive funding. In general, more than 50% of government budgets at the county and municipal levels are funded through property tax revenue. Therefore, when governments run low on revenue to balance budgets, the tax rate is the first option typically. Diversifying revenues would mean a lot on the local level.
If the legislation passes the House and Senate, by December, the task force will be charged with evaluating, “the revenue structure … and make recommendations regarding the authority of county and municipal governments to increase sources of revenue.” On Monday, the House passed the task force legislation, 106-27. The Senate Budget and Taxation Committee is the bill’s next stop.
For unknown reasons, suspicions are the legislation will be difficult to pass because similar bills have failed in the past and the state does not want to lose revenue. Instead, the state seems intent on shifting its current funding burdens to the local jurisdictions. With such a reliance on property taxes, governments are placing undue burden on their homeowners.
There are a very few revenue options for governments and one that should be considered is a share of the state’s sales tax being sent back to the counties and municipalities. Maryland is one of only six states in the country that keeps all the sales tax revenue, which accounts for about 11% of the state’s annual budget. With the state in recent years applying the sales tax to more and more services, it seems reasonable for some of the local shares of the sales tax collection to be sent back to the local levels. It’s how the income tax collections are currently handled.
***
The pilot program set for this summer on Coastal Highway where a stretch of the bus lane is used only for bikes could be a disaster. It does seem to be a clear situation where the negatives far outweigh the positives.
Confusion from motorists, bus riders and bikers is inevitable from 17th to 26th streets. Buses will be moved from the designated lane over to the slow lane, picking up and dropping off riders from temporary bus stops floated in between the lanes. The bus riders will then walk from the floating stop across the bike lanes to the sidewalks while being mindful of bikes, scooters and electric bikes. Additionally, vehicles looking to turn off Coastal Highway on to a side street will need to keep an eye out for bikers making the turn. My guess is vehicles will simply use the new bike lane leading up to their turn, negating the project’s intent. It’s a vulnerable situation with a number of public safety concerns.
The City Council was right to express its concerns this week and to fire off a letter seeking reconsideration to the State Highway Administration. In an interview earlier this month, SHA District 1 Engineer Mark Crampton commented on the project, saying, “It’s one of those things where you look and see how it goes. That’s really doing to drive what [the project] looks like.”
The risks far outweigh the rewards, and I am not sure a nine-block stretch of the highway is going to clearly give the city and the state an accurate depiction of the situation. If the test moves forward, police will need to have a presence in the area to document hazardous instances.
The Appellate Court of Maryland is being asked to decide whether Ocean City’s zoning restrictions, which essentially make cannabis dispensaries illegal in the resort, violate state law. Since 2024, Maryland law states municipalities cannot treat cannabis dispensaries different than alcohol. Ocean City is doing just that with setting impossible zoning restrictions to meet, but the legal question will be whether there’s enough gray area in the town’s zoning ordinance.
It’s clear Ocean City does not want a cannabis dispensary in the municipality. It’s an antiquated view in today’s times and is contradictory. Ocean City is going to allow cannabis ads and sponsorships for special events but frowns on a dispensary actually being located within town limits. It’s silly, and it’s clear Ocean City is treating cannabis different than alcohol, contrary to state law. Beer and wine operations can open anywhere, while the liquor business is governed by the Board of License Commissioners.
It’s going to be fascinating to see how the court sees the matter. Both sides are confident they will prevail, of course.
Editor,
The costs of developments never include the costs for the education that new housing requires. Worcester County reports over $21,000/per student per year. Now multiply this by the average of 2.5 children per family and 12 years of education. Not many people pay that much in income and real estate taxes, and that is for just one regular students. That leaves a big deficit. Special education costs even more.
Education is a necessary cost that is the biggest expense that currently citizens in the county must shoulder. There should be a surcharge for developments that should fund this extra need for classrooms and staff instead of current citizens.
The old formula was for every $1 development costs us $1.30. The bigger the town or county population the bigger the additional services costs us proportionally.
Get ready to foot the bills with higher taxes. Just look at more developed areas and compare.
Hans van den Bosch Snow Hill
Although I am not a resident, I have owned property in Ocean City for 30 years. During that period, I have seen an explosion in the Worcester County budget largely financed through the property taxes on non-resident property owners such as myself.
The proposed budget for the coming year calls for about a 7% increase
over last year's budget. And the budget of the School Board proposes an increase of nearly 11% in spite of some serious questions raised by the recent audit. At present, Worcester County spends more money per enrolled pupil than any country in the state.
But with all this money, they claim there is a problem in meeting the $60,000 state minimum for teacher salaries. It simply does not make sense that a county that is spending more for education than anyone in the state is short on teacher salaries. The source of this budgeting fiasco can be traced back to the county's abuse of the Homestead Exemption in property taxes.
Statewide, property tax increases in owner occupied properties are limited to 10% in any calendar year. Worcester County’s current limit is set at 3%. That basically means that when local politicians decide to spend money from increased property tax revenue, the impact on local voters will be minimal with the main burden falling upon properties that are not owner occupied.
Taxation without representation is a common phrase used by residents of the District of Columbia but it applies equally well to non-resident property owners in Worcester County.
Jim Thomas Ocean City
Mail your letter to editor@octodaydispatch.com
All letters are subject to editing for clarity and potentially libelous material
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(March 26, 2026) The Berlin Town Council this week approved a contract with Bennett Construction for $121,436 to demolish a multipurpose building at 130 Flower Street. The job is a key step in preparing the site for the town’s planned community center.
At its Monday, March 23, meeting, town officials said the project will be funded through a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) awarded to address blight on the property.
The municipality received six bids
for the demolition. Councilmember Jay Knerr asked whether the demolition would include removing underground elements at the site.
Nicholas Bradley from the engineering firm Davis, Bowen & Friedel confirmed that the scope of work includes full removal of the building’s foundation as well as an existing fuel tank.
The demolition is supported by roughly $300,000 in Community Development Block Grant funding.
With some grant money remaining, Mayor Zack Tyndall raised the
possibility of expanding the project to include the nearby SHOREUP! Inc. trailers.
“I don’t want to leave money on the table,” he said.
Town Administrator Mary Bohlen said that because the trailers were not included in the original bid documents approved under the grant, adding them to the project may not be straightforward. However, she agreed to investigate whether the structures could be included in the demolition initiative.
Sara Gorfinkel, Tyndall’s executive assistant, said only a few people are still working out of the trailers and that relocation efforts for occupants have largely been completed. That could simplify any future demolition plans, she said.
“Before we can go after the money, we’ll have to bring it back publicly anyway,” Bohlen said. “Let us explore it first.”
The council ultimately approved the demolition contract, with Councilmember Shaneka Nichols absent.
The project stems from a grant
award announced in June 2025, when the Town of Berlin received $297,449 to demolish the former multipurpose building at the Flower Street site. The property is slated to become a community center.
Town officials said the funding was specifically designated for the removal of “spot blight.” The building qualified due to its deteriorated condition, including the presence of asbestos and lead paint, as well as significant structural damage.
The structure, long abandoned and located near Henry Park, had become a safety concern and a visual blight in an area frequented by families.
Its removal will bring the town closer to its plans to build a community center, a collaborative effort involving the Town of Berlin, the Berlin Community Improvement Association, SHOREUP! Inc., and the Worcester County Commissioners. The proposed facility is expected to provide community meeting space, recreational opportunities, and public services.
Restaurant manager said to have instructed student to depart after buying food
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(March 27, 2026) A policy at an Arby’s restaurant across 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 prohibit-
ing 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.”
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 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.’
Shannon Jones
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.”
“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 last week, Arby’s had 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.
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(March 27, 2026) Buoyed by an outpouring of community support and a fundraising boost, the Delmarva Discovery Museum won’t be closing after all – but the Pocomoke City nonprofit still needs a steady stream of visitors to survive.
“We’re not quitting. The doors are shut temporarily, yes. But we’re not closed and we haven’t given up,” executive director Christy Gordon told OC Today-Dispatch.
Gordon said she and the museum’s 12-member board met for four hours on Monday morning to discuss in-house changes, new strategies, and updates to their business plan.
“We’re not blaming the community. We fully take responsibility. We realize we have improvements to make,” she said.
After months of declining gate and gift shop revenue, rising costs, and unsuccessful attempts to increase attendance, the board of directors announced last week that March 20 would be the museum’s last day.
The public response was swift and overwhelmingly positive. Online, museum fans posted messages of encouragement on social media, while hundreds of people visited in person March 19-20.
Still, despite the momentum, “it’s been the worst week of my life, career-wise,” Gordon said. “I’ve been crying for days. I’m heartbroken. My staff works so hard. We want so badly to keep this going.”
To stabilize day-to-day operations, the museum launched a $100,000 fundraiser through the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore. That money will help pay bills, address repairs, and cover the cost of animal care – a seven-day-aweek effort for the staff of six.
The museum board’s decision to close its doors was ultimately driven by financial reality, not a sudden crisis.
Officials had been sounding alarm bells since January, warning that revenue was falling short of the $25,000 required to cover monthly costs like aquarium maintenance, feeding animals, building upkeep, insurance, and wages.
Grant money became harder to come by, too, Gordon added, as the pool of funding available to nonprofits has been steadily shrinking. “We’ve applied for grants, but so have hundreds of other people,” she said.
‘I am encouraged that there is both serious public and private sector interest in moving forward with a revitalized Delmarva Discovery Museum.’
Sen. Mary Beth Carozza
Gordon said the effort is not a long-term solution but will “get us back on our feet.”
Since opening in 2009 in a renovated riverfront car dealership, the museum has been a family-friendly destination, rainy-day tourist draw, and field trip favorite for downtown Pocomoke. Attendance is about 15,000 annually.
The museum even launched a GoFundMe campaign specifically to raise money for beloved river otters Mac and Tuck, who are both the museum’s most popular draw and its largest ongoing expense.
“We’ve been everywhere letting everyone know we’ve been in trouble and we needed help – and we did not get any. We didn’t just shut the doors. We’ve been trying to avoid this for months, but the financials
make the decision in many ways. The money just hasn’t been there,” Gordon said.
Over the years, state and local government funding has been a steady revenue source.
Since 2010, Worcester County has given $573,500 to the museum, with annual donations averaging about $33,000 a year, according to county spokeswoman Kim Moses. It’s unclear what the Worcester County Commissioners may give during this budget cycle, which closes in June.
Sen. Mary Beth Carozza has sponsored two bond initiatives totaling $201,000 since 2015. She’s now working with community partners on a comprehensive plan to raise new funds and cement the museum’s place as a regional destination.
“I am encouraged that there is both serious public and private sector interest in moving forward with a revitalized Delmarva Discovery Museum,” Carozza said in a statement. Gordon said what matters most is getting people to walk in the door.
“We need everybody who has been supporting to be visiting, to attend our events. That’s all part of the sustainability that the museum is looking for. We can’t do that without the public helping us,” she said.
JAMES L. SHREEVE, JR.
Berlin
James Lockerman Shreeve Jr., known to all as Jim, passed away on March 16, 2026, in Berlin, Maryland, just three days after celebrating his 84th birthday. Born on March 13, 1942, in Baltimore, Maryland, Jim lived a full and vibrant life defined by his love of sports, his sharp wit, and his gift for bringing people together.
Jim proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, a chapter of his life that reflected his sense of duty and discipline. He went on to attend the University of Virginia, where he distinguished himself as an All American goalie on the lacrosse team. That athletic excellence was not merely a personal achievement but the foundation for a lifelong passion. Jim carried his love of the game, and of sports in general, with him throughout his years on the Eastern Shore, where he devoted countless hours to coaching youth lacrosse and soccer. He also served as an official for both sports, earning the respect and admiration of players, families, and fellow coaches alike.
Jim married the love of his life, Judith Ann Shreeve, née Whitmore, and together they built a family and a home filled with laughter and warmth. He was a man who thrived in the company of others, always organizing a gathering, always ready with a plan. Whether it was a card game, a round of Chickenfoot, a spirited game of bingo, or a session of pinochle, Jim was the one rallying friends and family to the table. A small wager was never out of the question, adding just enough friendly competition to keep things interesting. His witty sense of humor made every occasion more memorable, and his talent for bringing people together ensured that no one was ever left out.
Beyond the games and the laughter, Jim found deep contentment in life’s simpler pleasures. He loved reading and sitting on the beach, savoring the quiet beauty of the shore he called home. He cherished going out for lunch or dinner with family and friends, turning ordinary meals into occasions worth remembering. His generous spirit extended to those
OBITUARY NOTICES
Obituary Notices cost $50 per week for Print and Online Publications. E-mail: editor@octodaydispatch.com Mail: 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 Fax: 410-723-6511
who could not speak for themselves; Jim was passionate about spending time with his dogs and was a dedicated supporter of animal rescue organizations, giving faithfully to causes that reflected his compassionate heart.
Jim is survived by his daughter, Stacey Bachar, and his son, Dana Shreeve (and his favorite daughter in law Kimberly Shreeve), both of whom carry forward the warmth, humor, and love of life that their father embodied so naturally. He is also survived by his brother Thomas Shreeve (Patti), his sister Barbara Shreeve, and his brother-in-law Charlie Whitmore (Betty).
In keeping with the faith that quietly guided his life, may Jim find peace and rest in God’s eternal care.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin. The visitation will take place from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. with the service to follow. Family and friends are welcome to gather in celebration of a life well lived. Jim will be greatly missed by many who loved him dearly.
GEORGE FRANK SMITH III Selbyville
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of George Frank Smith III (Frankie), age 79, of Selbyville, Del., who departed this life on March 19, 2026. He was born on October 9,
1946, in Salisbury, Maryland, to the late George F. Smith Jr and Alice Lee (Jones) Smith.
Frank dedicated 37 years to public service as a USDA Poultry Inspector, a role he performed with pride and great diligence. In addition, he was self-employed for many years operating Frank’s Small Engine Service, a business he truly loved.
A lifelong car enthusiast, Frank especially enjoyed driving his 1981 yellow El Camino.
Frank was a man of Faith and Fellowship. He was a devoted member of Selbyville Salem Church.
Frank was deeply committed to his community. He served as a former town councilman for 34 years. He was a life member of the Selbyville Volunteer Fire Company and served as a Chief Engineer. He was a proud member of the Delaware Lodge #37 A.F. & A.M. embracing the values of Brotherhood and Service. He was a member of the Dagsboro American Legion Post 24, and the Selbyville Elks Lodge.
Additionally, he proudly served in the U.S. Coast Guard.
Frank found great joy in God’s creation, especially through fishing and hunting with his beloved sons, Nathan and Brian, which were mo-
ments he truly treasured. His warm sense of humor and funloving spirit will be fondly remembered by many, including his friends at Tidal Health Cardiac Rehabilitation where he faithfully participated for 23 years.
Frank is survived by his beloved wife, Renee Smith, and his two devoted sons, Nathan A. Smith (Lori) of Selbyville and Brian A. Smith (Robin) of Gumboro; step-daughter, Janee Juliano (Neil); step-granddaughter, Gina Juliano; step-grandson T.J. Parkinson; nephew, Sean Williams; great niece and nephew, Mackenzie Williams and Parker Williams. His warmth, kindness, and unwavering support will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege to know him.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by an infant son, Baby Boy Smith; brother, Philip A. Smith; sister, Lana Rae Williams.
A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, March 27, 2026 at the Bishop-Hastings Funeral Home, 19 S. Main St., Selbyville. A visitation will be held one hour before the service. Burial will be in the Redmen’s Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory made be made to Selbyville Vol. Fire Co., P.O. Box 88, Selbyville, Del. 19975.
Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com.
$1,845.
By Bruce C. Walls
Contributing Writer
(March 27, 2026) Stephen Decatur’s boys varsity baseball team is picking up from where they left off last year. The team ended last season 19-3 overall and 8-0 during conference play.
On March 20, Decatur played Wicomico High School and won 15-2 with credit going to pitcher Kyle Springer, who shut down the Indians.
On March 23, Decatur played a hard-fought game against Queen Annes. They had won 8-4 against Queen Anne’s last season. This year’s game started off with 0-0 into the second inning. In the third inning Queen Anne’s scored to take a 1-0 lead. Between innings the team was able to get some offense going, eventually walking with a 4-2 win over Queen Anne’s.
On March 24, Decatur had a tight
By Bruce C. Walls
Contributing Writer
(March 27, 2026) Stephen Decatur’s varsity girls softball team has kicked off its season with an eye on running for a state title.
Last year, the Seahawks were 20-4 overall and 9-0 in conference play. Decatur advanced in the players, losing the 2A State Championship game to Huntington High School by a score of 3-2.
Decatur has started this season with 2-1 overall record including 2-0 in conference play. There are 17 players to started off the season.
The first game was against Wicomico High School with a shut out of 21-0. Stephen Decatur scored nine runs in the first inning to set the tone. Pitcher Lily Rados ruled the mound with nine strikeouts. In the second inning, six more runs were put on the
victory over Bayside rival James M. Bennett with a walk-off homer in the last inning.
Last season Decatur handled James M. Bennett, 10-2, but the squads are typically battling for conference bragging rights each spring.
On Tuesday, in the seventh inning, Bennett was ahead, 7-5, until Sea-
hawk Landon Daniel came to bat with two on and walked off the win with a dinger. A stunning 3-run homer gave the Seahawks a thrilling 8-7 win. Decatur is now 3-0 overall and 20 in the conference as of Wednesday. On Saturday, Decatur plays a home game against Northern high school at noon.
score board by the Seahawks, who played strong in both offense and defense.
On March 23, Seahawks played Queen Anne’s. The girls were ahead in the third inning, 1-0. The wind changed and Queen Anne’s took the lead to win by one run, 4-3.
On March 24, the Seahawks dominated over James M Bennett with another shut out for their second conference win with a score of 19-0. The next home game is April 16 against North Caroline High School.
(March 27, 2026) The following represents recent honors and recognitions presented to Stephen Decatur High School student-athletes.
• Girls basketball: Bayside South Conference honors recently included Corey Holland receiving coach of the year and Maliyah Manuel earning defensive player of the year. Additionally, first team conference honors went to Maleah Blake, while Paityn Tyre and Maia Holland earned second team placements. Lila Gunther was named to the third team.
• Boys basketball: Guard Jonanthan Purnell was named to the Bayside South’s first team. Senior Kayden Sharkey earned honorable mention.
• Field hockey: The National Field Hockey Coaches Association has named its National Academic Teams for the 2025 season, and Stephen Decatur High School was well represented with 15 juniors and seniors, including four Scholars of Distinction.
National Academic Squad: Jillian Burton, Tilly Callahan, Bailey Griffin, Kamryn Hitchens, Nicole Mays, Morgan Michalski, Elizabeth Palmer, Reagan Reed, Marley Rill, Emily Skipper, & Reese Whitaker.
Scholars of Distinction: Halle Marshal, Kate Miller-Vail, Megan Sandt, & Avari Shoff.
In addition to the National Academic Teams, senior Bailey Griffin was selected to the prestigious National Senior Impact Team honoring not only academic achievements, but also leadership, service, and impact beyond the field. Griffin was one of only 15 players across the state and one of only 209 players across the country.
BACO B
SCRAMBLED
BRIOCHE FRENC
OAST CH T EGGS
N AND CHEDD
T PO ASBREAKF AFFLEWA
SAUSAGBACON/ PANCAKE
GELINKS ES TATOES ES TATAARFRIT
, GELSBA , ENGL MUFFINS B
, B LISH MUFFINS OR BREADS F
SAUSAG SISCUITS/ S rs rze
DANIS , SEIGNET TOAST VY GE GRA GE
CREAM OF C
GE CH A COTT FRESH FRU TER BIS LOBS
AESAR SA C
ILED EG DEV
C CHICKEN/SHRIM
OY
TERS ON THE H S
UKE S CSLAW/ sn NIS AILCKTA
ALF SHELL ALAD
CRAB MIN OC SHRIMP C
SMOKED AHITUN
ANIMENT ACOMP TS
CHICKEN AND W
SALMON OS T SH COCONU
