Sign up now for our new, Monday-Friday newsletter. — Page 99
With removal of final two kiosks at the inlet parking lot, Ocean City goes all in on apps and smart phones to collect parking fees this spring and summer — PAGE 4
Regional Kennedy-Krieger center, Diakonia get major financial support. — PAGE 82
Facing daily fines, St. Paul’s-by-the-Sea relents and moves its homeless inside church.— PAGE 6
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(April 3, 2026) Ocean City restaurateur Peter Elias and his partners in a 17th Street renovation project are facing a $3.5 million court-ordered judgment after defaulting on a commercial loan.
The Bank of Ocean City is suing The Bistro and Lounge LLC as the borrower and Elias as its managing member. He is being sued both individually and under the LLC, which owns the Cowboy Coast restaurant property at 1706-1708 Philadelphia Ave.
Court documents show the bank in November 2024 approved a $4.5 million loan at 7.25% interest, with the property listed as collateral. A payment history included in the court filing indicated the loan had monthly interest-only payments of $23,000.
Filed Feb. 11, the lawsuit alleges as of Jan. 26 there was still $3.49 million owed on the note, including $3.4 million in unpaid principal and $98,138 in unpaid interest.
As a result, the bank served a default notice and called back the loan. On March 8, Worcester County Circuit Court Judge Brian Shockley issued a judgment in the bank’s favor for $3.49 million.
That notice was recorded as a confessed judgment, a legal term meaning the business admits to defaulting and may waive its right to a trial. For collections, the bank hired the
Baltimore law firm of Gebhardt & Smith LLP. In the lawsuit, the borrowers allegedly “continued to refuse” to make payments under the terms of the deal, wrote plaintiff’s attorney Richard DuBose III.
When reached by phone this week, Elias said, “We’re working through that process right now,” but declined to comment further. Bank of Ocean City President Reid Tingle also had no comment.
The bank’s lawsuit names four other individuals as defendants: Karamjeet Singh, Basel Ramadan, and his wife, Shereen Ramadan. Singh’s company Seven Star Hospitality of OC LLC is also named as a defendant.
Singh, Elias, and Basel Ramadan contracted to buy the property in a lease-to-own deal. Seven Star Hospitality would be the lessee and the liquor license holder, according to meeting records of the Worcester County Board of License Commissioners.
Elias and partners acquired the property – formerly the Paddock nightclub, a resort landmark dating to the 1950s – from Rosenblit Family LLC for $4.5 million, property records show. The site by 2014 had relaunched as Cowboy Coast, a country music-themed restaurant with live music and a mechanical bull.
Elias is the proprietor of several upscale area restaurants, including
See JUDGMENT Page 4
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(April 3, 2026) Ocean City officials will begin their review of next year’s $199 million budget next week.
The Ocean City Council will be meeting with department heads to review the proposed budget for fiscal year 2027. The draft spending plan for all funds totals $199,163,438, with the general fund making up $130,554,569.
Officials next Tuesday are also expected to announce the new property tax rate, which is currently set at 44.26 cents per $100 of assessed value.
This year’s constant yield tax rate, or the tax rate needed to produce the same revenue as the year before, is set at 40.02 cents.
The proposed general fund budget projects real property tax revenues at $58.5 million, representing an increase of $4.6 million, and other tax revenues at $36.6 million, representing an increase of more than $5 mil-
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lion. The city also estimates revenues from licenses and permits to increase by more than $273,000 and revenues from services charges to decrease by $120,000.
In the expense category, public safety will be the largest expenditure at $56.6 million, or $5.6 million more than the current budget. Expenses will also rise in all other categories, including economic developmenttourism, which has proposed expenditures of $16.2 million, and culture and recreation, with proposed expenditures of $10.6 million.
The proposed budget is just a starting point for the Ocean City Council, which will throughout the week to finalize the spending plan. Work sessions will begin April 7 with a budget introduction, and continue Wednesday and Thursday with reviews of departmental budgets. A budget wrap-up is scheduled for next Friday.
Fiscal year 2027 begins July 1 and runs through June 30, 2027.
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By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(April 3, 2026) A totally meterless parking system takes effect in Ocean City this week.
With kiosks now removed from the Ocean City Inlet parking lot, city officials say those who park in municipal lots will now be expected to use mobile applications, QR codes or phone numbers to pay for a space.
Parking enforcement begins today and will continue through Oct. 31.
“Last year was meter-free except the inlet lot,” City Manager Terry McGean said in an email this week.
“This year is completely meter free including the inlet lot.”
Ahead of the 2025 summer season, the Ocean City Council voted to eliminate parking kiosks throughout town with the exception of the inlet
lot, which would gradually phase out kiosk usage by 2026. And earlier this year, as part of a repaving project at the inlet, officials made good on their word by doing away with the last remaining kiosks in town.
To that end, meters have been replaced with two mobile applications – ParkMobile and Passport. On those applications, those parking in municipal spaces can enter their zone number and vehicle information, set the desired parking time, and pay. Those without an app can walk to posted signs, which will have a QR code or number to pay by phone.
Beginning today, April 3, through May 21, the Town of Ocean City will implement paid parking on weekends (Friday through Sunday). Daily paid parking begins May 22 and ends Sept. 30. From there, weekend paid
parking goes back into effect from Oct. 1 through Oct. 31.
It should be noted that rates and enforcement times vary by location. Parking rates and fines for parking violations also increase during special events.
Those events include Cruisin’ Ocean City (April 30-May 3), OC Air Show (June 13-14), Fourth of July Fireworks (July 4), White Marlin Open (Aug. 3-7), Bike Week/OC Rock and Ride (Sept. 9-13), Oceans Calling (Sept. 25-27), Country Calling (Oct. 2-3), and Endless Summer Cruisin’ (Oct. 8-11).
Additional information on Ocean City’s paid parking can be found on the town website.
Spain Wine Bar and Oyster & Scales in downtown Ocean City. In taking over Cowboy Coast, he had planned to reimagine the space as Bistro Coterie, a 750-seat, French-inspired fine dining establishment.
Plans for the bistro renovation had been shared with the liquor boards dating to December 2023.
Elias explained to the board, records show, that the 12,000-squarefoot space would feature indoor and outdoor areas, a wine room, a seafood station, and an aging room for steaks.
But municipal zoning hurdles and parking issues have slowed progress by months ahead of a planned summertime opening, and floor plans were amended to shrink the renovation footprint in the interim, liquor board meeting minutes show.
While the liquor board had approved the establishment’s Class B license for beer, wine, and liquor, the partnership for now has opted to withdraw its liquor license application. Elias’ attorney Hugh Cropper confirmed he’ll come back to re-apply at a later date.
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By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(April 3, 2026) In an effort to avoid hefty municipal fines, St. Paul’s by-the-Sea Episcopal Church in downtown Ocean City has begun moving occupants of an outdoor homeless encampment into its facilities.
On Tuesday night, the church opened the doors to an overnight, low-barrier shelter inside the church’s buildings.
The shelter opened just hours ahead of a city-imposed deadline to have the church remove an outdoor homeless encampment it erected on church grounds or face a fine of up to $5,000 per day.
“We have been told by officials that they want this city to look like Disney World,” Pastor Jill Williams
said. “We believe this world needs to look like the Gospel. So we made the decision to not wait until everything was in place. We stepped out in faith.”
Last fall, St. Paul’s began welcoming members of the homeless population onto church property, purchasing tents and setting up an encampment on church grounds, located directly across from City Hall at Baltimore Avenue and 3rd Street.
The church’s goal, according to Williams, was to provide some relief from the elements until the church had the necessary resources to establish an indoor shelter at its outreach center.
However, the Town of Ocean City is challenging the church’s homeless encampment, arguing the tents are a violation of the city’s zoning code. To
that end, the municipality gave the church until March 23 to remove the tents or face a fine of up to $5,000 per day.
That deadline was extended to April 1.
“We were faced with the decision of what to do with these people and how to have them outside on our property without the basic safety and dignity of a tent, since the city kept pressuring us with these fines,”
Pastor Jill Williams said. “At the end of the day we are the church, and the church learned a long time ago that we don't have to depend on the government for anything.”
Rather than wait for the church to find a permanent solution, the vestry of St. Paul’s opted instead to immediately open an overnight, low-barrier shelter. On March 31, the church
began moving the tents’ occupants inside.
“We could not ignore the needs of our people,” Williams said. “That is our first priority. Instead of placing them in the middle of us and the government, we are going to step out in faith and live what we preach.”
When reached for comment this week, City Manager Terry McGean said the city has had no direct communication from the church regarding its plans to open an indoor homeless shelter.
“If they do, in fact, move forward with those plans, they will need to proceed lawfully which may include obtaining any necessary permits or approvals to do so,” he said in an email Monday.
Williams said last week the church was “scrambling” to hire staff that would oversee nightly operations. She added that arrangements were also being made inside the facility without having to make any structural changes.
The pastor said those who are not eligible to stay at nearby shelters can find protection from the elements at St. Paul’s. Once occupants sign in, they will be provided food and a place to stay overnight.
“There’s no other requirement.
Continued from Page 6
You can come in any condition, and we will take care of you …,” she said. “Of course, there will be rules and safety procedures, but we are talking about radical hospitality.”
Jill Lake, the church’s director of outreach, said the shelter will address a gap in the community. “Even when resources are offered, many sit outside Ocean City or require identification, background checks, sobriety, or program participation that not everyone can meet,” she said in a news release.
“With restrictions on sleeping outdoors and regulations limiting where people can stay, some individuals have no legal place to go. We respond to that reality by offering a place of compassion, dignity, and care.”
Williams said this is just the first
step in establishing a more permanent shelter onsite. She said the church will continue seeking donations and community partners for those efforts.
However, Steve Urick, who owns a condo unit at the Polynesian, located next to the church, said he is not supportive of the church’s plans to create an indoor shelter. He pointed to a 2013 incident, in which a homeless individual set himself on fire and ran into St. Paul’s, killing himself and the church’s pastor and destroying the rectory.
“We don’t need a repeat of history,” he said.
Urick also shared his frustrations over seeing homeless individuals congregate on church property.
“I didn’t spend $500,000 on a condo to see homeless people next door,” he said.
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(April 3, 2026) Plans to renovate an aging building at Ocean City’s public works campus inch closer to the hammer-and-nail stage, with city staff expected to award the project to a local contractor.
the making, the project transformed the campus and its buildings, which had become too small and antiquated for the city’s operations.
However, one facility – the service center – had been left untouched. The bid award will mark one of the final steps in completing improvements to the campus.
“This building was built on or about 1984,” Adkins said. “It’s just a pre-engineered metal building.”
During a work session last week, the Ocean City Council accepted bids from six companies interested in completing the extensive renovation project, which calls for replacing the metal roof, overhead doors and two walls, and making some interior cosmetic improvements.
Improvements will move forward at the 65th Street service center, the only building not included in a multimillion-dollar campus improvement project completed in recent years, according to Public Works Director Hal Adkins. With six bids in hand, he said staff plan to award the contract to Apex, which submitted a proposal of $1.2 million.
Bids ranged from $1,285,650 to $1,886,879. Apex submitted the lowest bid by roughly $251,000.
“The responsive low bid from Apex will be what we plan to award to,” he said. “When I did the $29 million campus project back in 2021, this was the only building we did not touch.”
A project to renovate the city’s public works complex began in 2018 and wrapped up in early 2021. A decade in
“The estimated budget for this project is $1,465,800,” Procurement Manager Matt Perry told council members last week.
The six bids were sent back to staff for further review. Adkins said a recommendation to award the bid to Apex is forthcoming.
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(April 3, 2026) Ocean City’s public works department says a leak in a sewer main is likely to blame for a sinkhole that opened on Coastal Highway earlier this month.
This week, crews began work to address a leaking joint on a 42-inch sewer pipe located 14 feet below Coastal Highway at 49th Street.
The leak, according to Senior Project Manager Dean Dashiell, is believed to have caused a pair of northbound lanes to cave in on March 11.
“We didn’t know about the problem until the other week when the sinkhole developed,” he said.
On March 11, the Maryland Department of Transportation alerted motorists to emergency road work that closed all but the left lane of northbound Coastal Highway at 49th Street. There, crews with State High-
way Administration District 1 redirected traffic while a local contractor spent hours filling a sinkhole and repairing the roadway.
As of late last month, the agency had not been able to identify the cause of the sinkhole’s formation. However, further evaluation with a camera has since revealed a leaking joint in the sewer main.
“It’s a joint leak on a 42-inch pipe,” Dashiell said. “So it could take a lot of water and sand washing away before it ever shows up.”
Most lanes of northbound Coastal Highway, as well as all of 49th Street oceanside, were closed earlier this week as crews began addressing the needed repairs. The work will include dewatering the area, moving a gas main, and repairing the sewer main.
The sinkhole reported earlier this month is the second to form in the area in recent years, according to Ocean City Public Works Director Hal Adkins. A few years ago, about 50 feet northwest of the most recent sinkhole, another area opened up.
Crews at the time were not able to find the source of that void either.
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Beech Tree Place is a 9 lot subdivision situated in a highly sought-after area, offering easy access to local amenities and attractions. Enjoy the proximity to Assateague Island National Seashore and the beautiful Beaches of Ocean City. Lots offer Public Water and Sewer, High Speed Internet, Underground Utilities, County Maintained Road, NO HOA and NO city taxes. These Lots are ready to build on!!
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(April 3, 2026) A clearer picture is emerging of which bills from lower shore lawmakers have momentum as the 2026 General Assembly session enters the home stretch.
With 10 days left before the session’s midnight deadline on April 13, Sen. Mary Beth Carozza has successfully moved several bills that tackle specific regulatory and governance issues.
Carozza (R-38, Worcester) has sponsored 12 bills that, as of Wednesday, have crossed over into the House of Delegates and are under consider-
ation by House committees.
One of the most impactful bills for the Eastern Shore would repeal the requirement that farmers must have a permit in hand before building new livestock housing. Senate Bill 371 would allow farmers to build chicken houses while the state finalizes a broader permitting framework.
Carozza said a months-long regulatory bottleneck has led to tens of millions in stalled construction projects since last summer. The bill was scheduled to be heard Wednesday by the House Environment and Transportation Committee. As an emergency bill, it would take effect immediately if passed.
Another emergency bill from Carozza, Senate Bill 508, would overhaul the Somerset County school board. It would add student mem-
bers, shift vacancy appointments from the governor to the county commissioners, and require strict adherence to the state’s Open Meetings Act.
For Worcester County, Carozza’s Senate Bill 681 would increase membership on the county’s liquor board, or Board of License Commissioners, from three members to five. It also staggers terms for board members and increases their pay from $2,100 to $4,200.
A related Worcester County measure, Senate Bill 846, would authorize the liquor board to establish a temporary to-go permit for the towns of Pocomoke City, Snow Hill, and Berlin. If passed, attendees of special events hosted by the municipalities could freely walk around with alcoholic beverages in to-go cups within the event footprint.
Carozza is also the primary sponsor of another bill with statewide impact. Senate Bill 9 would establish Nov. 11 as a permanent tax-free day in Maryland for veterans for items under $2,000. If passed, it would take effect July 1.
Some of Carozza’s bills stalled in committee. One such high-profile measure, Senate Bill 50, would prohibit high school students assigned male at birth from playing on girls’ sports teams and require schools to designate teams as male, female or coed based on biological sex at birth. The bill, pitched as the “Fairness in Girls’ Sports Act,” is unlikely to pass this session.
Across the State House hallway in the House of Delegates chamber, Del. Wayne Hartman’s legislative portfolio has hit a wall.
Of the four bills Hartman (R-38C, Worcester) sponsored this session, only one made it out of committee and into the Senate. That measure, House Bill 914, is a companion to Carozza’s liquor board expansion bill and has a favorable outlook.
His other three bills have been sidelined in committee. Those stalled measures include a proposed sales tax exemption on sales of gold and silver coins and bullion (House Bill 500) and a plan to lower the state’s corporate income tax (House Bill 690).
Another Hartman bill that didn’t cross over, House Bill 988, would have repealed the mandate that owners of large buildings must track energy use and meet certain greenhouse gas emissions standards.
Hartman pitched a similar bill last year that would have exempted only public buildings like police and fire stations from the regulations, while this year’s bill called for a total repeal of the standards.
The lower shore’s third representative in Annapolis, Del. Kevin Anderson (R-38, Worcester) filed just one bill during the 90-day session, a companion to Sen. Carozza’s school board bill for Somerset County.
After being appointed last year by Gov. Wes Moore to fill the remaining 12 months of the late Del. Charles Otto’s term, Anderson did not file for reelection by the Feb. 24 deadline.
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(April 3, 2026) Members of a resort appeals board have denied a parking exception that would have allowed for the enclosure of an outdoor dining area at the District 24 complex on 24th Street.
During its March 26 meeting, the Ocean City Board of Zoning Appeals voted 4-0 to deny Embers LLC’s request for a 15space parking waiver at the District 24 complex, home to several establishments, including Blu Crabhouse & Raw Bar, Jay’s Cafe, Surf’s Up Arcade and the recently rebranded 1945 Steak & Seafood.
While the property owner sought the parking exception to enclose a portion of outdoor dining space at 1945 Steak & Seafood, board members argued a full provision of parking was necessary for the building’s use.
“I have a hard time with the character
of use of buildings, which as I understand are retail, food, entertainment and restaurant,” said board member John Moran. “That’s typical uses of properties in Ocean City, and I don’t see why retail, food, entertainment makes parking unnecessary, makes the full provisions of parking unnecessary.”
During his presentation last week, Ocean City Zoning Analyst Chase Phillips told board members the property owner, represented by attorney Hugh Cropper, was seeking to enclose an estimated 1,425 square feet of outdoor dining space at the dining space. While outdoor dining areas do not have a parking requirement, he said any indoor spaces required one parking space per 100 square feet of area.
“The code allows up to 100% of that gross floor area to be allocated towards outdoor dining space without the requirement for more parking,” he ex-
plained. “So the request that’s before you is to add what staff see as enclosed gross floor area and take that away from that 100% threshold.”
By enclosing the space, Phillips said the property owner would need to accommodate 15 more parking spaces onsite. However, he said the parking lot only had the required number of spaces needed to service the mixed-use complex within the enclosure.
“There's no surplus parking at this site currently that staff can use to cover the full enclosure of that restaurant space,” he explained.
To that end, Phillips noted the applicant was seeking a special parking exception for 15 spaces. Cropper, representing Embers LLC and proprietor Cole Taustin, said the waiver is part of his client’s plans to enclose a portion of the third-floor outdoor dining area with “rollup and roll-down” garage doors.
Cropper argued his client’s request was warranted, as the exception did not have any adverse impacts on neighboring properties. He added that the character and use of the mixed-use development did not necessitate the need for a full provision of parking.
“In this complex, I absolutely think it's a fact that patrons will visit one of the food establishments and then go to the arcade and then go to the retail,” he said. “This is exactly what the comprehensive
plan of Ocean City encourages, a destination development that encourages them to park their car, take their family and enjoy themselves.”
For his part, Taustin noted that even when the restaurant was at capacity, there were still empty spaces in the parking lot. However, board members last week voted to deny the request, arguing that it did not meet one of the qualifications for a special exception – that the building’s use makes the full provision of parking unnecessary.
“These are generic uses of the building …,” Moran said. “If we allow a special exception on the basis that there is food or entertainment in the building, every building in Ocean City would call on us to have a similar exception.”
When reached for comment this week, Taustin said he disagreed with the board’s decision, stating he did not believe the board’s interpretation of the code was accurate.
“It seemed like their deliberations only took into consideration part of the case we presented, not the whole thing,” he said.
Cropper added that he was disappointed with the outcome. However, he said his client is willing to work with the city.
“He’s had 228 parking spaces on his property that have never been full,” he argued.
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(April 3, 2026) An Ocean City man has been sentenced to 40 years in prison for a second-degree murder charge stemming from his involvement in a hit-and-run accident.
In December 2024, following an investigation into a hit-and-run incident that claimed the life of a 59year-old man, the Ocean City Police Department arrested James John Johnson, now 58, of Ocean City, on charges of first-degree murder, second-degree murder, first-degree assault, second-degree assault and possession of a controlled dangerous substance (cocaine).
In court last week, a Worcester County Circuit Court judge sentenced Johnson to four decades behind bars for the second-degree murder charge to which he pleaded guilty.
On Dec. 16, 2024, Ocean City police were called to a strip mall parking lot between 92nd and 94th streets for a reported hit-and-run involving a pedestrian. Despite lifesaving efforts, the victim, identified as James Callahan, succumbed to his injuries.
A police review of video surveillance of the area revealed that Callahan was walking east to west across Coastal Highway at 94th Street, when a dark-colored SUV turned south onto the roadway near where the victim was walking. The victim then walked west into a shopping center’s parking lot after gesturing at the vehicle.
The surveillance footage then showed the SUV turning into a parking lot at 94th Street, where it accelerated before swerving directly into the victim’s path, intentionally striking him, police reported. After striking the victim, the SUV then drove back onto Coastal Highway and traveled south, leaving the area before first responders arrived.
Police found the damaged vehicle, owned and operated by Johnson, at a residence near 77th Street, and executed a search and seizure warrant on his property.
A receipt from a nearby restaurant was found on Johnson’s kitchen counter dated Dec. 16 at 4:39 p.m. Police were able to determine Johnson was picking up his carryout dinner and returning to his residence when the fatal incident took place.
A search of Johnson also found a pair of dollar bills with cocaine residue in his right pants pocket.
Johnson was placed under arrest in the early morning hours of Dec. 17 and was held without bail. In a hearing held Nov. 25, he pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, for which he was sentenced to 40 years in prison.
The hit-and-run incident was the first Ocean City death investigation to lead to a first-degree murder charge in 22 years. The last reported case was in 2002, when Pennsylvania couple Benjamin and Erika Sifrit were charged with the murders of Virginia tourists Joshua Ford and Martha Crutchley.
(April 3, 2026) The successful apprehension of a suspect following a fight uptown last week had led to praise of an Ocean City Police Department K-9 and her handler.
Police said Police Officer First Class Devin Bartrom and K-9 Mackenzie were called to a fight in progress in the 83rd Street-area about 1:19 a.m. last Friday.
Upon arriving at the scene, police said officers saw signs that a fight had taken place both inside and outside a residence. They also determined that the suspect and victim were acquaintances who had been inside the residence together when an altercation occurred.
The suspect was asked to leave, but unlawfully reentered the unit, where an additional altercation took place before the suspect left the area on foot as officers responded, according to the OCPD.
PFC Bartrom and K-9 Mackenzie employed the scent from an item left behind by the suspect to begin a track. According to the statement of charges, police arrived to find blood on a deck leading to the door as well as on exterior of the door and win-
dows.
“Demonstrating exceptional skill and focus, K-9 Mackenzie followed the suspect’s path from the 8700 block of Coastal Highway, onto the beach, and south through multiple blocks and parking areas. The track ultimately led officers back toward the vicinity of the original incident,” a statement issued by the police said.
As officers converged on the area, the suspect was found in a parked vehicle nearby. The suspect, identified as Ernest Joseph Leatherbury III, 30, of Berlin, was taken into custody without further incident.
Leatherbury was charged with third-degree burglary, fourth-degree burglary, and second-degree assault. He was seen by a Maryland District Court Commissioner and as midweek was being held without bond at the Worcester County Jail.
According to a police press release, the incident highlights not only the effectiveness of coordinated patrol and K-9 operations but also marks a significant milestone for the Ocean City Police Department.
K-9 Mackenzie is the department’s newest K-9, the first bloodhound in the agency's history, and the first female K-9 to serve the department. She was donated by Public Safety Dogs Inc. to establish the Ocean City
Police Department’s bloodhound program.
Chief Raymond J. Austin praised the efforts of everyone involved, stating, “This incident is a great example of the strong teamwork between our patrol officers and K-9 unit. The coordination, communication, and professionalism displayed by all involved led to a swift and safe resolution. We are especially proud of PFC Bartrom and K-9 Mackenzie, whose tracking ability played a critical role in locating the suspect.”
The Town of Snow Hill and Downtown Snow Hill celebrated last weekend the success of the Project Restore Grant for Caprichos Books at 110 W. Green Street Unit B.
Caprichos Books moved to downtown Snow Hill thanks to the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Project Restore 2.0 grant. The Town of Snow Hill was awarded this Economic Development Grant for $178,111, to promote new businesses and restore a long vacant building into a safe, productive space.
“The town has been amazingly kind and warm to our business and family,” Caprichos Books owner Liz Decker said. “I'm looking forward to being another welcoming space to help the community grow connections with one another and a destination to bring visitors to see all the wonderful things the town has to offer.”
The town would like to thank Downtown Snow Hill, Inc., for their assistance and recognize the cooperation between multiple organizations, contractors, and business owners to achieve an amazing result for the community.
“We couldn’t be more excited to have Caprichos Books move in on Green Street,” Snow Hill Mayor Janet Simpson said. “Projects like this
show great cooperation between the Town, community partners and local businesses.”
Project Restore is presented by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, which activates vacant buildings, supports small businesses, creates jobs, improves commercial corridors, and increases local economic activity by providing financial support to placebased economic development organizations working to improve the vitality of Maryland’s commercial corridors.
More than $600,000 in scholarships are available for area students through the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore.
The Foundation, which awarded over 500 scholarships last year, has applications available on their website. Many of the scholarships have an April 1, 2026 deadline.
The Community Foundation offers a wide variety of scholarships, each with unique criteria. Some scholarships are based on the student’s prospective area of study, such as education, STEM, or trades like HVAC repair, welding, and culinary arts. Other Foundation scholarship criteria prioritize a student’s high school affiliation, GPA, athletic activities, organizational Continued on Page 30
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Elegant, custom-built waterfront home in one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Ocean City. This is an entertainment & water enthusiasts paradise. The open floor plan is wrapped in windows, offering panoramic views from kitchen, dining and living room areas that flow to the large main level waterfront deck. The living room gas fireplace will warm up your off-season festivities. 35-foot pier for boat & jet ski tie-ups and quick, easy access to the bay. Gourmet kitchen with all SS appliances & 6 burner Vulcan® gas stove. Primary Suite spa-like BA with jacuzzi tub. 2 bedrooms on the 1st floor with covered private balcony & 2 bedrooms on the main level provide plenty of room for family and friends. The 2-car garage & exterior storage are perfect for your water & beach toys. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to own waterfront elegance in Ocean City. Come home to coastal living at its finest. Qualified buyers only.
$1,650,000
David Park
410.459.8079
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memberships, or community service.
“We aim to provide scholarships that support students with varied experiences, strengths, and goals,” explains Cathy Diekmann, CFES director of scholarships and community engagement. “Paying for college is a huge undertaking for nearly every student. Regardless of your path or starting point, exploring scholarship opportunities is a worthwhile endeavor.”
New this year, CFES has begun integrating a common application for some scholarships, making it more convenient and efficient for students to apply for scholarships. The foundation will integrate more scholarships into the common application in the coming years.
For a full list of scholarships, criteria, and applications, visit CFES.org/scholarships.
The following releases were recently sent to this publication.
• Evie Eggers of Berlin won Foundation Award for "Staring" at the opening reception on March 26 of the Kathryn E. Wentz Juried Undergraduate Exhibition at McDaniel College, Westminster. Eggers is a freshman Art major. The annual Kathryn E. Wentz Juried Undergraduate Exhibition highlights the best artwork by undergraduate students at McDaniel College.
• The following people recently were elected to membership into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation's oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines.
Allison Blakeman of Ocean Pines at Louisiana State University
Emma Coyman of Berlin at Meredith College
Joseph Klein of Berlin at Salisbury University
Ramona Gray of Berlin at Salisbury University
• Taylor Takacs of Berlin was recently elected to membership into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation's oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society, at Salisbury University.
• University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) graduated more than 6,400 students worldwide in the fall 2025 term including Steven Pacobit of Ocean City, Master of Business Administration President's List and Katelyn Mcdeshen of Berlin (21811), Bachelor of Science in Social Science.
• Colin Bright of Ocean City was named to the Dean's List at Bates College for the Fall semester ending
(April 3, 2026) Students in the Worcester Technical High School Welding program have turned classroom skills into a real-world contribution for emergency services.
David Riddleberger, Tyler Brown, Alina Velasquez Navarrete and Ellamia Nivine, welding students at the school, recently designed and fabricated a fully functional burn box trainer made entirely of metal for use by the local fire school. The project, completed as part of their hands-on training, will help firefighters safely simulate live fire conditions during training exercises.
The burn box trainer is a specialized piece of equipment used to teach fire behavior, ventilation techniques, and suppression strategies in a controlled environment. Riddleberger
and his team took the project from concept to completion, applying advanced welding techniques, metal fabrication skills, and safety considerations throughout the build.
“This project reflects the kind of real-world experience our students gain,” said Rick Stephens, instructor in the welding program. “The welding team demonstrated not only technical ability, but also problem-solving and dedication to creating something that will serve the community.”
Constructed from durable steel, the burn box is designed to withstand repeated exposure to high temperatures while maintaining structural integrity. Riddleberger, Brown, Navarrete and Nivine worked closely with their instructor and Alex Bean from the Ocean City Fire Department to ensure the design met the needs of the fire school and safety standards.
Local fire officials expressed appreciation for the contribution, noting that training tools like the burn box are essential.
Riddleberger said the project was both challenging and rewarding.
“It’s great knowing something we built will be used to train firefighters and help keep people safe,” he said.
The project highlights the mission of Worcester Technical to combine academic learning with practical skills, preparing students for careers while making a positive impact in the community.
(April 3, 2026) The Art League of Ocean City invites the public to an engaging evening of conversation and insight as part of Voices of Influence: Women Who Lead. This round-table brings together accomplished women leaders to share their journeys, offer practical guidance for women entering leadership roles, and explore how they balance career, passion, and daily life. Panelists will include:
• Abby Custis, Artist, Entrepreneur
• Stephanie Fowler, Writer, Author, Storyteller
• Tamara Mills, Coordinator of Fine Arts for Worcester County Public Schools
• Erica Joseph, President of Community Foundation of Eastern Shore
• Jan Perdue, Business Woman, Philanthropist
• Amy Thompson, President/CEO of Ocean City Chamber of Commerce
• Many Ann Wengeman, Author, Leader in Government Setting
• Moderator: Dr. Mary Anne Cooper, Art League of Ocean City, Education Director
The program and table discussion are presented by the Women’s Art League Leadership Collaborative through a grant from The Woman’s Fund of the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore. The Leadership
Collaborative supports and advances women leaders across the Eastern Shore through mentorship, programming, and networking opportunities. This is a free event. To register use: https://canvas.artleagueofoceancity.org/classes/3039
Registration is encouraged, but not required details. Interviews with organizers and panelists can be arranged in advance.
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(April 3, 2026) The Town of Berlin informally committed this week to providing a tax credit to first responders who reside within the municipal limits. The move is an attempt to bolster fire company recruitment and retention efforts.
At a work session between the Berlin Fire Company and the mayor and Town Council on Monday night, municipal and emergency officials discussed the possibility of offering eligible volunteer and career fire staff an annual property tax credit, or refund, after they settle their property tax bills.
How it would work is the fire company would provide the town with a list of members staff who qualify for the perk. Fire company President David Fitzgerald said that, for example, this year, 18 of the 28 members who live in town are eligible for the refund.
To qualify, volunteer or career staff must live within the Berlin town limits and own their home, with their name appearing on the property deed.
Members would receive their property tax bill, pay the balance, and then apply for the credit from the town. The municipality would budget for the expense.
Officials said that they would like to see the credit at $1,000, at least to start.
“My thought is we start at $1,000 and then see how it goes,” Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall said. “And we can always work up. It's always easier to work up than it is down.”
Offering the tax credit could encourage fire company members to move into the Town of Berlin. With more members residing in the area of service, response times would likely be quicker.
“I moved out of town because of the cost. The taxes, water, sewer…this could bring people in town to live in town, young people, knowing they would get something off their taxes, because where does that help us? Response times,” Fitzgerald said.
Adding that he lives about four miles out of town, he said he can get to a scene quickly at night, daytime traffic makes that more difficult.
The refund may also give town citizens already considering membership into the volunteer company that final push.
The council’s discussion of the proposal included length-of-service requirements for eligibility. Town Council Vice President Dean Burrell said that requiring members to have served for three years will provide a hook and increase retention. Individuals would stay on, in the hopes of securing the tax refund when they reach that third year.
Tyndall, however, said that he
would like one year to be the marker of eligibility.
“What I’m looking for is a year of service,” he said. “If the goal is recruitment and retention and you say it takes three years…I don’t think it's going to happen.”
Furthermore, the perk would be given to those who met the qualifications in the prior year.
‘So,
“The thing is, we’re not front funding, we’re back funding a year,” the mayor added. “So, if you volunteered for a year, we’re going to recognize it and say thank you and hopefully you continue again for next year.”
thing 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.”
To illustrate the time commitment, from July through December, company personnel spent 1,286.19 hours answering emergency calls and 1,498.25 hours on non-emergency events. The nonemergency time included training, meetings, and fundraisers.
Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall
Tyndall also said that he would prefer to extend the credit to all first responders who meet the requirements, including those in law enforcement.
Fire company officials have acknowledged that the Berlin company, like many volunteer units across the country, are struggling to recruit new members.
“It's a struggle,” Fire Chief Andrew Grunden said at a mayor and Town Council meeting earlier this month. “It's a time-consuming thing. People don’t want to spend a lot of time doing some-
Worcester County is considering a similar tax incentive for fire company members. Those eligible would receive both perks from the county and the Town of Berlin.
Other towns have their own version of a property tax credit. In November, the Ocean City Town Council voted to proceed with a refund for active members of the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company who live in town.
The Ocean City tax credit, up to $2,500, would apply only to active volunteer firefighters.
No action was taken on Berlin’s tax credit at Monday night’s work session, but officials said they would support the move informally.
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(April 3, 2026) The Ocean Pines Board of Directors agreed this week to spend more than $300,000 to build an outdoor kitchen at the Yacht Club to improve patio service and food quality this summer.
In an email vote on March 18, the board agreed to hire My Hands Handyman to construct an outside kitchen at the community Yacht Club for $316,500. The email poll was announced at the governing body’s meeting on Saturday, March 28. According to Director Jeff Heavner, the vote was unanimous.
“After previous unanimous consent to vote by email, [Board President] John Latham made the motion to vote in favor by an email vote to approve $316,5000 for the contractor My Hands Handyman to build the tiki kitchen at the Ocean Pines Yacht Club,” Heavner said. “This vote needed to be unanimous, and it passed with a unanimous vote, and it is being announced for recording in the board meeting minutes.”
The director maintained that voting by email, rather than in a public forum as is typical, complies with the association’s bylaws and the Corpo-
rations and Associations Article of the Maryland Code, so long as all directors agree.
Officials say that the initiative will enhance the service at the community's eatery.
The tiki kitchen will be erected on the Yacht Club's outdoor premises. Its purpose is to serve the patrons at the establishment's pool and patio area.
Bob Ciprietti, owner of Touch of Italy, the restaurant group that oversees the site’s food and beverage operations, said last year that the summer presented challenges in getting orders to customers while keeping service quick and food fresh.
An influx of the warm weather crowd, he said, made it difficult for staff to juggle the inside patrons and the poolside guests. TOI hopes that the additional kitchen outside will supplement the indoor galley.
The endeavor has been moving through the approval processes since 2025.
In October, the board unanimously agreed to spend $40,800 for engineering designs from Vista Design.
A “request for proposal” (RFP) for the tiki kitchen was issued in February. OPA General Manager John Viola said this week that his team evaluated five RFPs and ultimately recommended the now-approved My Hands Handyman for $316,500. The general manager added that the structure is expected to be finished in time for summer.
“I think it's a very good initiative,” Viola said. “We have a kitchen that takes care of the Yacht Club, the inside. That’s a big effort when 200 people come all at the same time…We are very, very happy and excited about what’s going to happen over the next month.”
He added that the effort is a collaboration between OPA and TOI. The restaurant group will pay for the structure’s interior, like the kitchen equipment, while Ocean Pines is responsible for the construction of the building.
“This was Touch of Italy’s idea, which we’ve embraced,” Viola said “… I look at this as a hybrid. Ocean Pines, we’re responsible for the structure. It's our building, it will always be our building. They, TOI, are putting money into the interior, into the kitchen…I’ve been hearing a lot of different things. No, we did not give TOI $316,500. That’s our money invested, and it will be part of our assets.”
Improvements are also expected at the community’s Clubhouse Bar and Grille this year. Officials said in February that while these projects are upcoming, their progress has slowed due to recent priorities, such as the new
and the
effort.
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(April 3, 2026) While major improvements continue to be made at the Ocean Pines Golf Course, officials say February’s winter storm has caused planned bulkhead work to be postponed until after summer.
At the Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors meeting this week, OPA General Manager John Viola reported that the multi-phase irrigation overhaul remains in “green” status, with phase two expected to wrap up in early April.
The community has been working to replace the site’s 50-year-old failing system. Phase one included work on hole one, the fourth tee, hole nine, the practice range, and the pump station. The second stage began in December, and by the time it’s complete, holes 1 through 10 and 18, the main pumping station, and the practice green will have been updated.
“The golf course superintendent] has told me we’re on track. You can see the work being done,” Viola said. He added that crews are currently working on hole 10.
The next phase will address holes 11 through 17. Viola said that he will come before the board with more detailed plans at a later date.
The irrigation project has already completed its first phase for $934,000. Phase two was budgeted at $810,500. Viola said that progress has remained steady despite winter weather challenges.
Bulkhead work at the course is also progressing. Construction began last month at the pond on hole 18, a project approved at $141,375 with Fisher Marine Construction. Viola said the improvement will play a key role in supporting the new irrigation system by increasing water retention.
“That bulkhead is also aiding in the amount of water that we’ll be able to retain for this irrigation system, which will minimize, if not hopefully eliminate, but it will definitely minimize the amount of water we take out of the aquifer,” he said. “That is big for this association, big for the Eastern Shore. It won’t be this golf course that’s pulling on the aquifer.”
However, a second bulkhead project at hole 16 for $75,000 has been postponed until the fall to prioritize spring course readiness following delays caused by February’s snow and wind storm. Viola said while the original plan was to have both initiatives completed in succession while the vendor was onsite, the contractor is working with the association to adjust the timeline.
Golf course improvements continue to be a priority for the association. In February, OPA approved several capital investments for the golf course.
At its Feb. 28 meeting, the board signed off on three pieces of equipment from Burke Equipment Company: a $26,477 utility tractor, an $80,828 Holland loader, and a $24,343 range picker.
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(April 3, 2026) Current maintenance projects were discussed during this week’s Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors meeting, as staff detailed progress to date and upcoming improvements to be made in areas like bocce, aquatics, and racquet sports.
OPA’s Senior Director of Administration Linda Martin reported that annual maintenance on the bocce courts was completed March 11, a day ahead of its season opener on March 12. The work was performed by the original installation contractor as part of a routine upkeep program.
“We have an annual maintenance program, so the company that installed the bocce courts came out and did that on March 11,” Martin said.
Martin added that further upgrades to the bocce area are in motion. Shade tents and bleachers have been ordered, and a new leaderboard is currently being fabricated. Martin added a limited number of sponsorship opportunities for the courts are
still available.
Additionally, facility improvements are planned for the golf course and pools. Martin said restrooms at the golf course fairways are scheduled for painting and general repairs, while more extensive upgrades are planned for Swim and Racquet.
“Materials have been ordered to replace the partitions and flooring,” she said. “So, the Swim and Racquet bathrooms will be upgraded with new partitions and flooring once those materials arrive.”
At the racquet sports complex, staff are working to replace a light on court No. 8, though the project has faced minor delays due to logistical issues.
“We were trying to do it when we had the lift. Unfortunately, we didn’t want to damage the courts or the grounds around there,” Martin explained. “So, we’re trying to get equipment that will not damage that.”
Inside the clubhouse, additional maintenance is planned, including steam cleaning of carpeting throughout the building.
Also at this week’s meeting, Viola provided a financial update, emphasizing that while the association finished the month of February unfavorable to budget, the overall
outlook remains positive.
“If we look [at our scorecard], we are negative about $4,000, and I take that seriously, even though it’s a small number,” Viola said. “When I look at the detail and everything, revenues were under budget by about $30,000, but our expenses were under budget by $26,000. These are slow months to begin with. The golf course was closed, other things were closed. And we had the storm. But I take this seriously, my team takes it seriously.”
Viola added that despite the financial slide, the community’s staff are to thank for the quick and effective response to cleanup efforts from February’s unprecedented winter storm.
“Public works and everybody in this association — when I look all around, we could say we stood at the top for how we handled it as a team,” he said.
Viola maintained that the association remains in a favorable position financially, reporting approximately $400,000 in positive variance yearto-date.
“I’m about 10 months in. We’re favorable around $400,000. We’ve been estimated before between $400,000 and $450,000 on favorability,” he said. “Again, it’s not surplus. It’s favorability. A lot of that money is already earmarked for the next assessment and for capital [pro-
jects].”
Viola noted that both revenues and expenses have trended favorably overall. A major contributor to the improved financial picture is the turnaround in food and beverage operations, he added.
“If you look at food and beverage, the year before we were negative $100,000 after depreciation which obviously would be a cost in the assessment,” Viola said. “What I look at now in the budget we used for this year, we are favorable…we are estimated to be favorable $150,000 in the black. That’s a $250,000 swing. That’s $25 to $30 favorable on the assessment this year because of food and beverage. Hopefully we continue that.”
Viola maintained that much of that improvement is due to association’s contract with Touch of Italy and said the results reinforce ongoing investments in community infrastructure.
Meanwhile, the Yacht Club’s main bar has officially reopened following renovations completed in late February.
“The main bar reopened on Feb. 27, and Touch of Italy added drink counters to the corners of the bar area,” Viola said. “We also installed televisions for viewing enhancement. We never had TVs in the middle of the bar. I think it looks great.”
Leading up to the Easter holiday, Worcester Preparatory School's (WPS) pre-kindergarten class conducted two experiments using eggs as the key ingredient. Both experiments led to a day of fun as students learned about the force of gravity. In the "Inertia Egg Drop Experiment,” the Law of Inertia was tested. In this case, the egg remains at rest until the plate is moved, allowing gravity to take effect. This causes the egg to drop straight down into the cup, as there is no force to change its direction. Next, in the "Humpty Dumpty Egg Drop Challenge," students, with help from their parents, created parachutes from household supplies to protect a hard-boiled egg during a fall and landing. The students dropped their parachutes from the top of the playground equipment to find out if the egg stayed intact. Above left, pre-kindergarten teacher Kim Zaccagnini and classmates give a drum roll as student Neil Robison prepares to hit the pan during the Egg Inertia experiment. Above right, Landrey Patey is captured in action, hitting the pie pan as the Law of Inertia takes effect, causing the egg to fall into the cup of water.
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garage, dual laundry areas (up & downstairs), outdoor private shower area. Kitchen premium Monogram appliances & quartz countertops. High efficiency heat pump w/gas backup. Amenities: outdoor pool, fitness center, clubhouse & bocce ball courts. Minutes to
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floors, stunning chef's kitchen & luxuriously appointed BAs.
• Stunning ocean views from this 2 BR + den, 2 BA condo.
• Bright & spacious unit in desirable building.
• Indoor & outdoor pools, game room, fitness center & on-site shops.
• Close to the beach, movie theater, shopping & dining.
• OWNER FINANCING offered to Qualified Buyer 6% Interest 5-yr Balloon, 30-yr amort., 30% Down.
• Beach living at its best with perfect place to create lasting memories!
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• Stunning Ocean City Skyline views!
• In fantastic condition & close to the beach & Ocean City's famous Boardwalk.
• Amenities Include: Indoor Pool, Exercise Room & Locked Lobby with 2 Elevators.
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(April 3, 2026) Ocean 98.1 WOCM-FM with presenting sponsor Seacrets Distilling Company will hold its 18th Annual “Best Bloody Mary on the Shore” Contest on Sunday, April 19, 12-3pm in the Morley Hall at Seacrets in Ocean City.
Proceeds from this event will benefit the Ocean 98 “Cash for College” Fund. The $20 entry fee charged at the door will provide each attendee a judge’s ballot and allows for unlimited tastings of the Bloody Mary’s prepared for the event by some of our community’s best restaurants.
The categories that will be judged are “Best Overall”, “Best Presentation” and “Spiciest”.
Seacrets Distilling Company returns as the event’s presenting sponsor, and will provide Seacrets Distilling Company Vodka to each competing restaurant to be used exclusively for their competing entry (s).
This is a 21 year old and older event. The Ocean 98 “Cash for College” fund provides a $5,000 cash award each year for an outstanding high school senior in Worcester, Wicomico and Sussex County.
By Steve Green Executive Editor
(April 3, 2026) There are multiple opportunities throughout the weekend to celebrate Easter with the kids. Here’s a rundown of some of the larger planned events:
Ocean City
Since 2000, Ocean City locals and visitors have enjoyed family fun at our Easter Kids Fun Fair plus Art & Craft Show, and it’s still going strong!
And by popular demand, in 2011, we created our second Home Show — the Autumn Home & Condo Show. We have been busy creating, hosting and promoting events. It’s what we do… AND we can Do It For You TOO! Contact us for more information regarding Attendance or Exhibition. The kids fun fair includes games and contests, Beanny the Easter Bunny, jelly bean guesses, coloring See LOCAL Page 46
Continued from Page 45
tables, Easter egg hunts, juggling shows by Cascading Carlos, juggling lessons, musical chairs, hula hoops contests, limbo contests and face painting.
The entertainment schedule for Friday and Saturday is the same each day and includes:
Meet BEANNY the EASTER BUNNY: 10 a.m.
Easter Egg Hunt (Ages 6 and under): 10:30 a.m.
Easter Egg Hunt (Ages 6 and under): 10:45 a.m.
Easter Egg Hunt (Ages 7 and up): 11:15 a.m.
Musical Chairs/Hula Hoops: 11:30 a.m.
Easter Egg Hunt (Ages 6 and under): 12:15 p.m.
Easter Egg Hunt (Ages 7 and up): 12:45 p.m.
Limbo Contest/Hula Hoops: 1 p.m.
Easter Egg Hunt (Ages 6 and under): 1:45 p.m.
Friday: Cascading Carlos: 2 p.m.
Saturday: Musical Chairs/Hula Hoops: 2 p.m.
Easter Egg Hunt (Ages 7 and up): 2:45 p.m.
Limbo/Hula Hoops: 3 p.m.
Easter Egg Hunt (All Ages): 3:40 p.m.
Hula Hoop Contest, Limbo Contest: 4:15 p.m.
Extreme Events will be on site with pay-as-you-go tickets for a variety of kids activities including shark slide, castle obstacle course, bounce houses and slides.
The event is open Friday, April 3, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and Saturday, April 4, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is $6, adults; $4, seniors (60-plus); and $4, students (4-18). Free admission for military, police and fire with ID. Free admission for children 3 and under.
The historic town will be turned Saturday into the annual Spring Celebration from 10 am.-4 p.m. Sponsored by the Berlin Chamber of Commerce, the event kicks off with an Easter Bonnet Parade at 10 a.m. and a special visit from the Easter Bunny to start the parade. Prizes will be awarded after the parade in several categories. At 11 a.m., hundreds of kids will search out thousands of eggs during the annual Easter Egg Hunt on the lawn of the Taylor House Museum. Throughout the day following the Easter egg hunt, family fun activities, games and crafts will be held throughout town.
Ocean Pines
The Easter Egg Hunt & Pool Party is happening on Friday, April 3 from 5-8 p.m. Enjoy crafts, music, and games, with food available for purchase. The Egg Hunt will be divided into three groups and times: 5:30 p.m.: Floaters (those who cannot swim on their own and don’t go underwater)
6 p.m.: Underwater Swimmers (ages 5-8, in 3.5 to 4 feet of water) 6:30 p.m.: Underwater Swimmers (ages 9 & up, in 3.5 to 12 feet of water)
Admission is $8 for Swim Members, $10 for Residents, and $12 for Non-Residents. The admission fee is paid at the door.
On Saturday, April 4, families are invited to hop over to White Horse Park for the community’s annual Spring Celebration & Easter Egg Hunt. This free event, happening from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., will feature carnival games, food, a petting zoo, bounce houses, face painting, and a visit from the Easter Bunny. Egg Hunt times are divided by age group:
Ages 1-3: 11:30 a.m.
Ages 4-6: 12 p.m.
Ages 7-10: 12:30 p.m.
(April 3, 2026) The Art League of Ocean City invites the public to the First Friday art opening on April 3 from 5-7 p.m. at the Ocean City Center for the Arts on 94th St. bayside. The public is invited to attend this free event with refreshments sponsored by PKS Investments and complimentary hors d’oeuvres.
The Thaler Gallery hosts “For the Love of Pastels” featuring the work of the Maryland Pastel Society. Founded in 1977, the Maryland Pastel Society is a nonprofit devoted to the promotion and development of professional, original works of art in the medium of soft pastel and to the creative and technical development of its members. While the Society had its roots in the Baltimore area, its members (over 200 today) come from all over the Mid-Atlantic region. The show will feature 24 Pastel Society members in the Thaler Gallery.
The Corporate Partner Juried Group Show, an annual exhibition, will be on display in The Sisson Galleria. The Art League receives support from more than 50 local businesses that have signed up to be corporate partners. “Our corporate partnerships are critical to keeping the Ocean City Center for the Arts up and running, and this is one of the ways throughout the year to thank them for their support. There is a vital connection between our local business community
and the arts, and nowhere is that more visible than this show. This exhibition is a celebration of our deep gratitude for those who support us,” Jessica Bauer, Development Director, said. The cash awards judged by local artist, Katie Cassidy, are in honor of the corporate support the Art League receives all year from the business community.
The Schwab Spotlight Gallery hosts UMES associate professors Elvin Hernandez, Brad Hudson and Collin Byrd, and celebrates Manga and Anime styles of animation originating in Japan, characterized by stark, colorful graphics depicting fantastic or futuristic themes. The Youth Manga and Anime show will also open on First Friday and continue through April 6. The Art League developed this exhibit to promote creativity among students outside formal art programs and to increase community awareness of the Manga and Anime art form. Students in middle, high school, and higher education submitted entries judged by Byrd, Hernandez, and Hudson. Past President, John Sisson and James Dufendach of Ocean City Comic Con recognize the artistic potential of students within and outside formal art programs and have willingly sponsored the cash prizes for the student show. “We are proud to bring the bold world of Manga and Anime to the Schwab Spotlight Gallery,” said Rina Thaler, Executive Director of the Art League. “This exhibit acts as a bridge between generations; by showcasing these professional works alongside the impressive talent of local students, we are fostering a space where creativity knows no bounds.”
Studio E presents Pat Lang and Steven Sirota. Pat Lang, a Marylandborn, self-taught painter, has forged a personal language through experiment, persistence, and study of galleries and art publications. Her work has been widely exhibited and recognized for its tactile surface and lyrical color. Steven Sirota began making wire art in 1972; after pauses for military service and a business career, he revived the practice in 2025 as “Wire Works,” exploring tension and form in metal.
The Artisan Showcase, in the Felber Gift Shop, features artwork by Mallory Vara, an Ocean City, Maryland multimedia freelance artist whose work blends suburban and city influences, reflecting a mind where complexity meets simplicity and chaos meets calm.
The satellite galleries for the Art League of Ocean City, The Princess Royale at 9100 Coastal Hwy., hosts photographer Jim Halvorsen showcasing Ocean City Yacht Shots, and The Coffee Beanery at 94th St. will display the work of Carly Whittington, a plaster artist and photographer from Berlin, Maryland. The Arts Center shows will be on display through April 25; the satellite galleries, through June 28. More information is
at
(April 2, 2026) The Ocean Pines Farmers & Artisans Market will return to its in-season hours of 8 a.m.1 p.m. this Saturday, April 4. Also happening this Saturday is the annual Easter Market, which brings together local farmers, makers, and families for a morning of fresh goods and holiday cheer. The Market’s favorite spring tradition, the Marketplace Egg Trail, will also take place on Saturday. The 2026 Market season will feature a variety of themed markets and special events throughout the year, including:
April 4: Easter Market - Featuring Easter baked goods, early spring produce, and flowers.
May 9: Blooms & Bouquets - A Mother's Day-themed market with flowers, decor, and garden items
May 23: Memorial Day Weekend Market - Offering ingredients for holiday meals, including fresh produce, meats, and baked goods.
June 20: Artisans Celebration Market - A special celebration of local artists and crafters. Discover handmade treasures and support talented makers.
July 4: Fourth Weekend MarketA Star-Spangled celebration!
Aug. 1: National Farmers Market Week - A celebration of the market's merchants and community partners.
Aug. 29: Labor Day Weekend Market - All the items for an end-of-summer gathering.
Oct. 10: Scarecrow Shuffle - A lively celebration of the harvest season! A marketplace atmosphere filled with the sweet scent of apple cider and the sound of live music. Stock up on seasonal goodies and enjoy the festive fall vibes!
Oct. 31: Halloween Market - A marketplace with Halloween-inspired elements. Costumes are encouraged!
Nov. 14: Flannel & Harvest Market - Grab your best flannel outfit and the market basket and head out to the White Horse Park Marketplace for a morning of community fun!
Nov. 21, 24: Thanksgiving Festival - Two markets that will provide items for your Thanksgiving celebration, with a special pre-holiday market on Nov. 24 from 9 a.m. to noon.
Dec. 5: Candy Cane Hunt - Gather the family and get ready for a sweet adventure! Search for hundreds of candy canes around the marketplace for a fun holiday hunt!
Dec. 12: Mrs. Claus Market TourMeet the merchants of the market with a holiday tour by Mrs. Claus herself.
Dec. 19: Christmas Market - Holiday baked goods, fresh produce, and artisan foods to prepare the perfect holiday feast.
The Ocean Pines Farmers & Artisans Market is open every Saturday, yearround, at White Horse Park in Ocean Pines. For more information, visit www.oceanpines.org/web/pages/farmers-artisans-market.
•Beautifully maintained 2-story home course in sought-after community.
•1st level hardwood floors throughout.
•Great room has cathedral ceilings, sliding glass doors & windows to golf course views.
•Oversized convenient 1st-floor primary suite has expansive walk-in closet.
•Upper-level BRs, bath & flexible loft ideal for guests, hobbies, or office.
•Remodeled kitchen 2022 SS LG appliances, wall oven, island gas cooktop, upgraded cabinets, quartz counters, breakfast bar seating, LVP flooring & built-in office nook.
•Large backyard with invisible pet perimeter fence.
•Oversized deck & custom stone patio overlook golf course.
•Heated garage & central vacuum system.
•Improvements: Gas furnace (approx. 4 years old) & Remy Halo air purification system, encapsulated crawl space, annual termite protection & exterior flood lighting.
•Walk to Yacht Club & Marina.
•Amenity-rich community.
•
& cathedral ceilings.
• Gourmet kitchen SS appliances, upgraded counters, farmhouse sink & breakfast bar.
• Great room new LVP flooring & sliders to screened porch overlooking wooded setting.
• Outdoor shed, extra-long driveway & newer roof.
• Furnishings negotiable, make for a turnkey coastal retreat or year-round residence.
• Kitchen SS appliances, newer stove, soft-close cabinetry, farmhouse sink & luxury plank tile flooring.
•Newer windows, efficient HVAC system, updated BA, washer/dryer, storm door & top-of-the-line Culligan Medalist Series water softener w/chlorination.
•Extended driveway great for boats, RVs & guest parking.
•Well-maintained & move-in ready.
•Presently occupied & must have appointment to show.
•Recent site plan on file.
•Starlink internet service. Septic pumped Oct. 2024
•Sold AS-IS. Minutes to Selbyville, Ocean Pines & beaches.
• Comfortable
• Formal living room & dining room with crown molding.
•Bright, open great room with cathedral ceilings, skylights & fireplace.
•Renovated kitchen beadboard cabinetry, Corian countertops & SS appliances.
•Freshly
•Upgraded kitchen center island, pull-out cabinets, pantry & breakfast room.
•Hardwood flooring kitchen, hallway, great room & 3rd BR or den.
•Elegant crown molding throughout home.
•Primary suite plush carpeting
•2nd BA updated with new handicap-accessible tub/shower combo.
•Laundry room with laundry tub & wheelchair ramp in 2car garage.
•Encapsulated crawl space & newer roof.
•Beautiful back yard landscaping & brick paver patio overlooks small pond.
ASTTAAL LUXURRY Y LIV UNIQUE 20PRIVAVAATTE ES WY #507 AN CITY h full, ation ! 0 13100 COASTTAAL BRAEMAR OCEAN 2 BR, 2
BA wit high-end renov underway $949,00
BUXY’S SALTY DOG & DRY DOCK 28
410-289-BUXY 28th Street Coastal Hwy. Saturday, April 4: TBA
CAPTAIN’S TABLE
410-289-7192
15th & Boardwalk In The Courtyard Marriott
Friday & Saturday, April 3 & 4: Phil Perdue
COINS PUB
410-289-3100
28th Street Plaza On Coastal Hwy. Friday, April 3: Cup Of Joe Saturday, April 4: Tear The Roof Off
CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE
302-988-5000
37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54, Selbyville, DE Friday, April 3: Jason Lee
Wednesday, April 8: Fil Rhythm
FAGER’S ISLAND
410-524-5500
60th St., In The Bay Friday, April 3: The Boh Daddies & DJ Groove
Saturday, April 4: Pistol Whipped & DJ Vybe
HARBORSIDE
410-213-1846
South Harbor Rd., West End O.C.
Fridays: DJ Billy T Saturday, April 4: Dunehounds & DJ Bigler
THE BOH DADDIES
Fager’s Island: Friday, April 3
MR. VCR
Pickles Pub: Saturday, April 4
THE COVER UP
Moose: Friday & Saturday, April 3 & 4
THE DUNEHOUNDS
Harborside: Saturday, April 4
THE PERMILLA PROJECT
Saturday, April 4
PISTOL WHIPPED
Fager’s Island: Saturday, April 4
Harborside: Sunday, April 5
Seacrets: Saturday, April 4
Sundays:
Opposite Directions Thursdays: Dust N Bones
PICKLES PUB
410-289-4891
8th St. & Philadelphia Ave.
Fridays: Beats By DeoGee
Saturday, April 4: MR. VCR
Monday, April 6:
Karaoke w/ Wood
Tuesdays: Beats By Wax Thursdays: Beats By Connair
410-289-6953
Between Caroline & Talbot Sts. On The Boards
Friday, April 3:
The Cover Up & DJ
Saturday, April 4: Charlie Travers (2pm) & The Cover Up (9:30pm)
SEACRETS
410-524-4900
49th St. & Coastal Hwy. Friday, April 3:
Blake Haley, DJ Davie, DJ E-State & Steal The Sky Saturday, April 4: DJ Connair, DJ E-State, The Premilla Project & Prism
Thursday, April 9: Faith Noel & DJ Davie
4 decades
■ 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 Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer
(April 3, 2026) Planning a holiday menu can be tricky because we want infuse heirloom recipes but at the same time it is important to incorporate new recipes more a more memorable experience.
If one has not finalized their Easter dinner, you might want to check out these delicious ideas. “Choices” allow personal preference to take on new heights which is always a good thing.
There is nothing better than warm bread topped with butter. However, the addition of a roasted head of garlic elevates the bread and butter to another level. The best part is the following recipe is as easy as it gets.
Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Using a sharp serrated knife, slice off the top of each head of garlic so the individual cloves are exposed. Carefully pour olive oil onto the cloves, allowing them to soak up the oil. Season head of garlic with dried thyme, Herbs de Province, salt, and pepper. Bake until garlic is soft, about 45 minutes. Top with a drizzle of olive oil and serve immediately.
Asparagus are considered the king of vegetables and a popular choice for your Easter feast. Steamed, grilled, or roasted equates fabulous results. Asparagus topped with a ParmigianoReggiano crust is decadent and sure to be a hit with family and guests.
Remove the tough ends of the asparagus. If the asparagus are thick, using a veggie peeler, remove the skin of the asparagus from the head to the base of the stalks. Steam the asparagus until they are al dente.
In a small bowl, combine 2/3 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, 3 tablespoons plain panko bread crumbs, 1 teaspoon Herbs de Province, and enough olive oil to hold the mixture together. Place the asparagus in a baking dish, top with Parmigiano-Reggiano mixture and place under the broiler under the crust turns a golden-brown color. Remove from oven, add a dusting of freshly ground black pepper and a splash of olive oil and serve immediately.
Ham is the most common protein for Easter. How one flavors a ham can be the difference between ordinary and superlative. An Easter ham with a cherry port glaze is sure to wow your guests.
Simply combine the packet of glaze that is included with the ham, 1 ½ cups ruby port, 1 ½ cups packed dark brown sugar, 1 cup cherry fruit spread, 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger, ¾ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon dried crushed rosemary and ¼ teaspoon black pepper with some of the ham drippings in a medium pot over medium-high heat until reduced by half. Pour the glaze over
the ham for the second half of the cooking time. The sweetness of the cherries and richness of the port adds a whole new dimension to your Easter ham. Lamb is another popular choice and mint jelly is typically paired with it. Mint jelly is one of those sides where you either love it or despise it. Offering a chutney alongside of the mint jelly upscales the presentation and highlights the flavor of the lamb. It also makes a lovely gift for your guests. A four-ounce canning jar filled with apple-fennel chutney and a rustic bow adds a homemade touch that speaks volumes. Following is the recipe for apple-fennel chutney.
Saute 1 chopped yellow onion, fennel bulb, 2 large cloves of garlic, 1/3 cup raisins, 4 granny smith apples in unsalted butter and canola oil for 7 min-
utes or until tender. Add 1 cup rice vinegar, ¾ cup sugar, 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest, ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, 2 tablespoons finely chopped crystalized ginger, and cook for another 30 minutes or until all of the liquid has evaporated. Toss in ½ cup finely chopped toasted walnuts for a contrast in texture. The chutney can be served hot, cold, or room temperature. Sometimes the most insignificant dish can be the most memorable.
What to serve for dessert at Easter is another consideration. Easter baskets filled with candy are everywhere. Mini carrot cupcakes continue the theme of Easter and are bite size which is perfect following a large meal. If time is of the essence, just purchase a carrot cake box mix. Mini cupcakes will be a hit with
children and adults alike.
Fresh fruit with homemade whipped cream is another possibility. Homemade whipped cream is decadent and takes this dish to another level.
In closing, the secret to entertaining is to be true to yourself. Trust your choices and most important – have fun. Stay safe and have a Blessed Easter. Enjoy!
Secret Ingredient – Individuality
Individuality is either the mark of genius or the reverse.
Mediocrity finds safety in standardization.
- Frederick E. Crane
Hundreds of local residents and visitors turned out on a beautiful day last Sunday for the Snow Hill Area Chamber of Commerce’s 15th Annual Oyster Roast. The event featured live music, camaraderie and oysters in just about every style available. Pictured are scenes from the event.
by Steve Green
n World Autism Awareness Day on April 2 in a previous year, my wife posted on Facebook, “Autism is a journey we never planned, but we sure do love our tour guide.” Her words hit the mark.
The basic concept of Autism Awareness Month is to increase understanding and acceptance through education.
Prior to becoming a parent to a special needs child, I knew little about Autism because I had no personal connection. What I know today is Autism is the challenge of my lifetime. There are days when Autism wins and it’s not even close. Nonetheless, I find comfort and peace in knowing the disability cannot choke the joy out of life.
My Carson, 16, through his disabilities, is the most inspirational person I know. I am blessed to be his father. Carson changed me forever. His older brother, Beckett, wrote his college application essay about his influence on him.
Each April during Autism Awareness Month I like to share Carson’s story. Soon after Carson, who we adopted, was born in 2009, we knew something was different.
When he was 3 years old, we learned through genetic testing he had a duplication of chromosome 7. It’s an abnormality with no cure that results in major developmental delays, anxiety disorders, social phobias, speech and language delays, ADHD, psychological impairments and cardiac and renal defects.
A few years later, after we realized his therapies and care would not be covered by insurance, we were advised to have him tested for Autism. We received the official diagnosis 30 minutes after walking into the doctor’s office through waiting room observations.
It’s easier to explain our child as autistic, rather than having a duplication of chromosome 7. It doesn’t matter to me. I could care less about labels. I just want what is best for him.
If having a diagnosis of Autism will allow him access to more services in life, then that’s fine.
What I do care about is the uncomfortable journey my family is charting. Our life is a roller coaster ride full of incredibly inspiring highs and horrifyingly disturbing lows. While the focus is on the positive, there’s no denying we have scars from the negatives.
I used to most worry about our older son, Beckett. His resentment toward his little brother was once palpable. Things have changed, as Beckett, 17, has matured. He now understands and accepts Carson. He realizes how much he has changed, thanks to having a brother like Carson. His heart is softer.
I have never doubted Beckett’s love for his brother. He will do anything for him, but he once vocalized how exhausting it is for him to always acquiesce to Carson in fear of a behavioral outburst. Instead of focusing on how he was once pushed down the steps by his brother during a tantrum, Beckett reflects on how far he has come.
Pam and I understand the resentment aspect. We know it’s difficult and want Beckett to communicate when he feels his needs are being overwhelmed by his brother. Beckett accepts his brother is different. He no longer decries the inconsistencies in our parenting of him compared to his brother. We expect more from Beckett. He complained about that for a long time as unfair. He was right, but he seems to understand the realities of the situation better now.
The key to a happy life with our special needs son is patience. It’s challenging each day, but an empathetic heart and a forgiving soul helps.
Because this month is about awareness through sharing, here’s a message I wanted to include here a Facebook post from years ago by a friend, Gina, who has a son with Autism in Carson’s grade. I have been able to coach Nate in our TOPSoccer program and have watched him grow up through elementary school. I loved
her message.
Today is World Autism Day. As many of you know we live with autism everyday in our house. One of the things I wish people would understand about raising a child with is autism is that it can be really, really hard. Some days Nate can go from very happy to full meltdown, with self harm or harm to those around him, in a matter of seconds. Due to his inability to functionally communicate often times we aren’t sure what triggers him. Some my hardest moments as a special needs mom are seeing my child physically hurting himself.
I also wish people understood that kids with autism are all so different, sometimes when I tell someone we have a child with autism I hear things like “oh but they are so smart”, or “what’s the one thing he’s good at?” “does he have a good memory?”
Often I want to respond by saying the one thing he’s good at is putting holes in the wall because he was startled by our dog barking, or he’s really good at breaking things just because he likes to hear them break. His memory is amazing, he can recite lines from cartoons OVER and OVER again for hours.
Nate requires so much work behind the scenes that people just don’t see, one the hardest, is advocating for him so that he is getting an appropriate education. The paperwork alone for this is overwhelming. The fight is ongoing and I won’t ever stop fighting for him.
One of the best things I’ve learned since Nate was diagnosed, there are amazing people in the world and many of them are autism moms who fight everyday for their children. So, on World Autism Day, just let them know you see them and are there for them in those times when autism just breaks us down.
(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
(April 3, 2026) It’s Easter, spring time; a time of renewal, rebirth, and resurrection. Things are looking up. The water has ticked warmer a few degrees and the air temperatures this past week have been considerably higher than normal for this time of the year. Trees are budding and blooming, and the cold winter is farther back in the rearview mirror. Longer days and more sunlight contribute to this uplifting change of season. Unfortunately, despite the optimism and good feelings, the water is still quite cold and downright winterish. But that’s okay. Adequate wetsuit gear can take care of that obstacle. If the surfer doesn’t already possess this adequate gear, it’s probably a good idea to bite the bullet and make a purchase. Either renting or borrowing, decent wetsuit gear should be a part of any surfer’s equipment collection. It’s as important as a good surfboard. If for nothing else warding off the cold is a matter of health, never mind comfort or even hypothermia. While some people can have a greater degree of toleration than others, cold water is no joke. Incapacitation in cold water could lead to greater problems. The prudent mariner would be a good analogy.
It’s best to avoid trouble before it gets real serious. One can perish in as little as half an hour in 55-degree water and the water is currently 10 degrees colder at best.
At any rate happy Easter and happy Spring. It’s a nice time of year. Grab a surfboard and wetsuit gear, respect the cold ocean, and go surfing.
- Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City
With Bunk MAnn
In the 1900s and up through the mid-1980s, most of Ocean City’s beaches were narrow and in some places nearly non-existent on high tide. There were areas (14th to 16th streets and the blocks between 21st and 25th streets) where breakers rolled almost to the Boardwalk and there was barely room to set up an umbrella.
Early attempts at beach preservation such as wooden jetties and stone groins had failed to halt erosion and every major storm was a threat to damage the Boardwalk and flood the town. The beach –Ocean City’s most important asset – was in trouble.
A massive attempt to save it began in 1986. Known as the Beach Replenishment and Hurricane Protection Project, sand was dredged from the ocean and pumped ashore. The beach was widened to 200 feet, a seawall constructed and the dunes rebuilt from 27th Street to the Delaware line. By October 1991, the project was successfully completed and the beach had been saved.
To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com. Photo showing beach erosion from 1973 courtesy of Ann Showell
By Steve Green
The phrase, ‘I don’t know what I don’t know’ March Madness every year
The quietness of a new keyboard
Comparing ‘then and now’ photos of kids
When a coach apologizes for a mistake
When blunt criticism is constructive
Closure to an ongoing awkward situation
The first shower after a hair cut
Citizen comments at public meetings
The peace of an office on a weekend
Teens who don’t curse to make a point
Christopher D. Hoen, CRPC, a financial advisor with Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC in Berlin, has earned the Ameriprise Client Experience Award for 2025.
Hoen was honored with this award because of his ability to consistently deliver personalized, goal-based advice and exceptional client service. Award recipients earned an overall client satisfaction rating equal to or greater than 4.9 out of 5.0 and maintained stellar business results. The award represents an elite group of Ameriprise advisors recognized as leaders for their commitment to making a difference in the lives of their clients.
As a financial advisor, Hoen provides financial advice that is anchored in a solid understanding of client needs and expectations and is delivered in one-onone relationships with his clients. For more information, please contact Christopher D. Hoen at 410-629-0947 or visit the Ameriprise office at 9928 Old Ocean City Blvd, Suite 5, Berlin, Md, 21811.
The Aspen Institute College Excellence Program has announced that Deborah Casey, Ph.D., president of WorWic Community College, is one of one of 23 community college presidents selected to participate in the third cohort of the Aspen Presidents Fellowship. The fellows will engage in a year-long professional development experience that will help them develop strategies to help more of their students graduate into good jobs, either directly after community college or following transfer and bachelor’s degree attainment.
“I’m honored to participate in the Aspen Presidents Fellowship,” Casey said. “Over the next year, I’ll work alongside 22 fellow presidents and leading experts to examine our institutions’ outcomes, identify opportunities for innovation and develop strategies that help more students earn a valued credential and advance in their careers, building economic resilience whether they pursue a job on the Eastern Shore or transfer to earn a bachelor’s degree. This fellowship is an incredible opportunity to strengthen the practices that drive post-completion success and upward mobility for Wor-Wic students and our communities.”
Through the program, fellows will work with highly accomplished community college presidents, Aspen leaders, and each other to analyze local labor markets, their colleges’ outcomes, national models of excellence, and lessons from highly successful presidents. The reform agendas they draft are then pressure-tested during multi-day residential sessions, multiple webinars, and feedback from peers and experts.
“We know from 15 years of intensive research how the best community colleges equip students with the skills and credentials that lead to good jobs and flourishing lives,” said Josh Wyner, executive director of the College Excellence Program. “These 23 presidents
have committed to strengthening their institutions so those outcomes become the norm for every student.”
Local businesses still have a chance to join the final session of D3’s three-part artificial intelligence workshop series, scheduled for April 15 at 3:30 p.m. The virtual session is designed to help participants learn, connect, and begin applying AI tools right away. This session is part of a Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamber of Commerce membership meeting and is open to the public, not just chamber members.
The final workshop will focus on what influences AI-generated search results, how to structure content so AI can understand and recommend it, and ways to improve online visibility. Participants will also learn how AI is changing everyday marketing tasks — from email marketing and social media to digital advertising. The session will bring everything together,
showing how AI engine optimization connects across an entire marketing strategy, and the D3 team will share practical tips and best practices to help businesses stand out in an increasingly AIdriven marketing landscape.
The series helps business owners understand how AI is changing marketing, search visibility, and customer engagement. The first workshop, held in February, focused on the basics of AI for marketing and evolving search behavior. The second session in March explored the AI assistant and how businesses can use it to streamline tasks, engage customers, and better understand what questions people are asking online.
“AI is not just changing how people search — it’s changing what businesses need to do to be found,” said Jay Bosley, COO of D3Corp. “The AI assistant helps customers get answers faster and gives businesses insight into what people are asking so they can create better content
and improve their online presence.”
Even those who missed the first two workshops are encouraged to attend. D3 will provide a brief recap, answer questions, and offer guidance for businesses looking to apply AI strategies to their marketing. Business owners, marketers, and community members interested in how AI is shaping the future of digital marketing are welcome to attend. For full event information and to register, visit bethany-fenwick.org. For questions, contact the Chamber at 302-539-2100 or membership@thequietresorts.com.
TidalHealth Peninsula Regional has had its Blue Cross Blue Shield Blue Distinction Center + (BDC+) designation extended for spine surgery, recognizing its dedication to treating
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individuals living with back pain.
“TidalHealth is proud to have our Salisbury hospital recognized for meeting the rigorous selection criteria set by the BCBS Centers of Excellence program,” said TidalHealth President/CEO Steve Leonard, Ph.D. “We provide our patients with exceptional care, and it’s always gratifying to have this level of national designation to confirm that commitment to outstanding care and patient safety is on par with the best spine surgical programs in America.”
TidalHealth Peninsula Regional has implemented a systematic approach to improving quality of life, which makes the very best surgical options and outcomes available to patients at an affordable rate. The award evaluates how organizations use clinical outcomes and performance measures to identify opportunities to improve care, case volume, demographics and affordability.
TidalHealth’s commitment to quality spine surgery care includes appropriately trained team members, leaders and surgeons who participate regularly in meetings to review surgical outcomes. They seek continuous improvement to enhance the spine surgery program’s structure, processes and outcomes.
Blue Cross Blue Shield makes information about the quality and cost of healthcare services available to its members to assist them in making informed decisions about their healthcare needs.
In line with this goal, Blue Cross Blue Shield recognizes hospitals and facilities in its network that offer specialized clinical services for certain health conditions. Facilities are selected for consistently delivering outstanding evidence-based spine surgery care.
SVN | Miller Commercial Real Estate announced the promotion of Ryan Finnegan to associate director of property management and Catie Windsor to senior property manager – association management, strategic moves that strengthen the firm’s leadership structure. These promotions reflect SVN | Miller’s continued investment in operational excellence, specialized expertise, and scalable support for property owners, tenants, and associations throughout the Delmarva region.
Ryan Finnegan has been promoted to associate director of property management. In this role, Finnegan will help bridge the gap between day-to-day property management operations and executive leadership, providing an additional layer of oversight, guidance, and support for the team. He will work closely with the managing director to strengthen internal processes, enhance operational consistency, and support the continued growth of the property management division.
Finnegan has served as a property manager overseeing a diverse portfolio
of general commercial properties and is also a licensed advisor. His dual perspective across property management and brokerage, combined with his strong operational knowledge, positions him to elevate both team performance and client service at a higher level. Since joining SVN | Miller as an intern in 2021, Ryan has demonstrated a consistent, solutions-oriented approach, effectively coordinating with property owners, tenants, and internal teams to ensure properties are managed proactively and efficiently.
Catie Windsor has been promoted to senior property manager – association management, where she will take on a formal leadership role of SVN | Miller’s
association management division. In addition to managing her existing portfolio, Catie will play a key role in the continued growth and development of the firm’s association management services. Windsor specializes in association management and has built strong, trusted relationships with association boards and residents through her proactive communication and attention to detail. She holds her Accredited Residential Manager (ARM®) designation, demonstrating her expertise and commitment to the profession. In her expanded role, she will help establish best practices, mentor team members, and more.
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
Your confidence is at an all-time high, Aries. This is the week to pitch an idea or finally send that text you’ve been mulling over. The universe is backing your bold moves.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, this week you’re entering a cycle of “treat yourself.” You deserve it right now, so enjoy. Whether it’s a brunch out with friends or a mental health day, lean into the experience.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Expect a random invitation to create a new connection, Gemini. Your wit is extra sharp this week, so use it to charm the room. Your social calendar is likely to fill up.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Cancer, the things you have been visualizing are about to materialize. You might feel an urge to organize your space or redecorate. Jump on that opportunity this week.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, you have been feeling underappreciated lately, but that ends soon. Expect a moment when your unique talents become the star of the show. It’s a great week for travel.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
Virgo, a puzzle that you have been trying to solve finally clicks into place. You are moving among different social circles and it can be tricky to balance it all. Trust your intuition over logic.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Libra, harmony is an ideal to aspire to this week. If there has been any tension in your circle, you are able to help dissolve it quickly. This is prime time for a date night or friends’ dinner.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, people are drawn to you this week, and you have that certain something that is impossible to ignore. Use this influence wisely.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
This week you’re in the mood to see what happens and let fate take the lead. Letting go of control might put you in a very fun situation, Sagittarius. Agree to a spontaneous plan.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
This week you are ticking off your todo list with amazing efficiency, Capricorn. The real magic happens when you sign off of work and head home to great news.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
Aquarius, you are thinking light years ahead of everyone else right now. Share your ideas, however unusual they may be and see who is along for the ride.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
The universe is making you choose whether to enjoy financial riches or riches of the heart this week, Pisces. It can be a tough choice to make, so give it some time.
On Thursday, March 26, 29 students from Worcester Preparatory School were inducted into the Pablo Picasso Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica and Societe Honoraire de Francais Chapitre Bastille during the WPS Spanish and French Honor Society Induction Ceremonies. Pictured above are this year’s inductees of the WPS Pablo Picasso Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica. Front, from left, are Hayden Wagner, Yevgenia Fedarkevich. Isabella Forman, Ellery Given, Keerat Brar, Noa Bouzaglo, Kayley Adkins, Ruhi Chapla, Elena Gjoni and Carolina Labin. Second row, from left, are Chase Thompson, Beckett Green. Karrigan Russell-Wood, Jake Campbell, Samantha Kuon, Harper Hertrich, Nora Gorfinkel, Rani Yonker and Spanish teacher Kira Gauger. Back, from left, are Luke Mize, Mac Miller, Benjamin Rafinski, Dexter Feldman, Liam Crowley, Max Griffin and Head of Upper School Carol Evans. Not pictured were Max Carpenter and Chloe Holland. Pictured at right are this year’s inductees of the WPS Societe Honoraire de Francais Chapitre Bastille. Pictured, from left, are Head of Upper School Carol Evans, inductees Sarah Wagner, Tyler Netting and Katie Zavala-Oliveros and French teacher Elaine Burg. SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
About 160 women gathered at Worcester Technical High School for a luncheon and fashion show organized by P.E.O. Chapter AK of Ocean City. The international P.E.O., (Philosophical Educational Organization), raises funds for women to continue their education and train for a career. AK President Gail Philippi spoke about the worldwide, national, and local success of the P.E.O. The luncheon was prepared by Worcester County 2025 Teacher of the Year Chef Phillip Cropper and the Worcester Tech culinary students. The menu was varied, and the presentation of food was outstanding. Pictured, from left, are Barbara Ferger, Lynn Schneider, Lin Bowen, Ginny Bojanowski, Sandy Reifsnyder, Marian Bickerstaff, Carlyn Crout and Nancy Waters.
A No King rally was held at noon on Saturday, March 28 on the Ocean City Boardwalk. A substantial number of participants were in attendance. Sponsored by Indivisible Worcester Md and Democratic Women’s Club Worcester, Dr. Roxie Dennis, pictured in red with megaphone, led the rally with Patriotic and activist songs.
Firefighter/paramedic Travis Hearn has been named Ocean City Fire Department’s Paramedic of the Year. This designation awards a paramedic who demonstrates competency, control, problem solving, communication and more. In his nomination, Battalion Chief Eric Borneman (D-shift) said, “It is an honor to have him on our shift and to serve him as his battalion chief, allowing me the opportunity to know a service will be delivered and carried out with dedication, professionalism and quality in both disciplines of Fire and EMS.” Pictured, from left, are Nancy Howard of the Paramedics Foundation, Deputy Fire Chief Derrick Simpson and Hearn.
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SUBMITTED
The Ocean City Berlin Optimist Club honored the winners and participants of the “Annual Oratory Contest” for grades 6 through 8 sponsored by Ocean City Berlin Optimist. The winners were first place Estelle Damouni from Worcester County Prep, $300; second place Samuel Zollinger from Stephen Decatur Middle School, $200; and third place Hunter Mitchell from Stephen Decatur Middle School, $150. Estelle and Samuel will go on to compete at the District Level where the winner will receive a $2,500 scholarship to college.
Members of General Levin Winder Chapter, NSDAR attended the 121st State Conference of the Maryland State Society Daughters of the American Revolution that was recently held in Ellicott City. During the conference, chapter regents and state committee chairs reported on their accomplishments in 2025. The DAR is a women’s service organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history, and securing America’s future through better education. Pictured, from left, are Chapter Regent Sharon Moak, Special Delegate Christine Nanna-Lieb and Vice Regent Betty-Jane Cain.
More than 30 community members, family and residents enjoyed a homecooked spaghetti dinner and delicious baked goods at a community-wide spaghetti dinner last month at the Hartley Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. It was a fun and festive event which benefited the home’s activities center, which provides inspiring and stimulating activities for their seniors.
PREMIER HOME & ARTISAN EXPO
Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission cost is $6 for adults, $4 for seniors 60+ and for kids ages 4-18 years and free to those 3 years and younger. Admission includes the Easter Kids Fun Fair. Expo. http://oceanpromotions.info, 410-2138090
EASTER KIDS FUN FAIR
Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission cost is $6 for adults, $4 for seniors 60+ and for kids ages 4-18 years and free to those 3 years and younger. Admission includes the Premier Home & Artisan Expo. http://oceanpromotions.info, 410-213-8090
EASTER EGG HUNT & POOL PARTY
Ocean Pines Sports Core Pool, 11144 Cathell Road, 5-8 p.m. Featuring Easter egg hunts, crafts, music, games and food (for purchase). Cost is $8 for swim members; $10 for residents; $12 for non-residents. Pay at the door. 410-641-5255
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
FIRST FRIDAY OPENING RECEPTION: JUNE 2026
Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 5-7 p.m. Meet the artists, enjoy hors d’oeuvres, and see the new exhibits by a variety of local and regional artists. Free event. All are welcome. development@ artleagueofoceancity.org, 410-524-9433
GOOD FRIDAY SERVICE - THE 7 LAST WORDS
St. Paul United Methodist Church, 405 Flower St., Berlin, 7 p.m. All are welcome. 410-641-0270
PREMIER HOME & ARTISAN EXPO
Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission cost is $6 for adults, $4 for seniors 60+ and for kids ages 4-18 years and free to those 3 years and younger. Admission includes the Easter Kids Fun Fair. Expo. http://oceanpromotions.info, 410-2138090
EASTER KIDS FUN FAIR
Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission cost is $6 for adults, $4 for seniors 60+ and for kids ages 4-18 years and free to those 3 years and younger. Admission includes the Premier Home & Artisan Expo. http://oceanpromotions.info, 410-2138090
SPRING CELEBRATION
Historic Downtown Berlin, 124 N. Main St., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Bonnet parade begins at World Toys at 10 a.m. Easter egg hunt at Taylor Museum at 11 a.m. Ages 0-3, 46 and 7 years and older. Also games & vendors. https://berlinchamber.org/ event/spring-celebration/
SPRING CELEBRATION & EASTER EGG HUNTS
White Horse Park, Ocean Pines, 11 a.m.2 p.m. Carnival games, food, petting zoo, bounce house, face painting and a visit from the Easter Bunny. Free event. Egg hunts: Ages 1-3 years at 11:30 a.m.; 4-6 years, 12 p.m.; 7-10 years, 12:30 p.m. 410-641-7052
THE NEGRO LEAGUES: A CELEBRATION OF HISTORY
Germantown School Community Heritage Center, 10223 Trappe Road, Berlin, 10 a.m.-noon. Join Dr. Clara Small and special guests discussing the history of the Negro League with emphasis on the Regional League of Delmara. Reservations recommended: germantownschool@gmail.com, 410-641-0638.
EASTER BUNNY EGG HUNT
Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 11 a.m. Kids, ages 2-10 years, hunt for eggs & treats. Fee is $6 for OC residents and $8 for non-residents. Advance registration is encouraged: https://www.ococean.com/event/easter -bunny-egg-hunt/2619/. 410-250-0125
TOWN OF BERLIN COMMUNITY YARD SALE
Being at 7:30 a.m. Only addresses located within the Town of Berlin limits will be accepted. Rain date is Saturday, April 11. Sign up: https://berlinmd.gov/ berlin-community-yard-sale/.
SATURDAY WRITERS
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10 a.m. Novice and established writers gather to share their writing projects. Structure includes critiques and appreciation, market leads and writing exercises. Drop-ins welcome. 410-641-0650
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
EASTER SUNDAY SUNRISE AND WORSHIP SERVICES
Assateague State Park, 6915 Maryland 611, Berlin, 6 a.m. Sunrise Service followed by breakfast at Bethany United Methodist Church at 6:45 a.m. At 10 a.m., a traditional Easter Worship followed by an Easter Egg Hunt. info@bethanyberlin.org, 410-641-2186
EASTER SUNDAY SERVICE
Atlantic United Methodist Church, 105 Fourth St., Ocean City, 10 a.m. Rev. George R. Patterson and special music.
atlanticumc.org, 410-289-7430
STORY TIME: I LOVE THE LIBRARY! 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
GREAT BOOKS DISCUSSION
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2:30 p.m. The group meets once a month to discuss selections from the Great Books Foundation. The group is reading “Red Badge of Courage” by Stephen Crane. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org
T.O.P.S. OF BERLIN - GROUP #169
Mondays - Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 5-6:30 p.m. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a weekly support and educational group promoting weight loss and living a healthy lifestyle. Rose Campion, 410-641-0157
BRIDGE
Mondays - Ocean City 50plus Center, 104 41st Street, Ocean City, 12:30-3:30 p.m. Reserve a spot: Tish, 410-8043971. www.Worcoa.org/oceancity
DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6:00-8:00 p.m. All ladies who love to sing invited. Elissa, 410-641-8050; on social media; or delmarvachorus.org.
OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS
Mondays - Worcester County LibraryOcean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 7-8 p.m. No dues or fees. 410-459-9100
PLAY TIME
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 10:30 a.m. Join in
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Everyone is invited to our community’s Easter Sunrise Service on Sunday, April 5th at 6 a.m. on the Boardwalk at North Division Street.
(If there is rain, the service will relocate to Atlantic United Methodist Church on 4th Street.) onde Thisisalwaysaw ate our risen Lor celebr che hur Christian c
Ministers, musicians, on the Board Easter Sunrise Se one i ery Ev rfulserviceandwehope rd with scripture his se T es will participate. from man vision S alk North Di w d April 5 , on Sunday vice er vited to our communi s in youcanattend hing. and preac s ervice will f Ocean City’ treet. s 5th at 6 a.m. ty’ ain, the service will re y ys a w his is alw Atlantic United Methodist elocate to information call 410-289 ant to bring blanket. w hairs will ted number of c rful service and we hope t Chur 9-7430. ou can attend.
Ministers, musicians, and singers from many of Ocean City’s Christian churches will participate. This service will celebrate our risen Lord with singing, scripture and preaching. This is always a wonderful service and we hope you can attend.
Bleachers and a limited number of chairs will be provided. You may want to bring a blanket. For additional information call 410-289-7430.
for a variety of activities and toys. Play and socialize with other families. For ages 0-5 years. 410-957-0878, worcesterlibrary.org
BABY TIME
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Songs, rhymes and stories. Stay after to socialize with other families. For ages 0-2 years. 410-632-5622, worcesterlibrary.org
STORY TIME
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Story time featuring seasonal themes designed to support early literacy skills with stories, songs and fingerplays. For ages 0-5 years. 410-641-0650, worcesterlibrary.org
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
SECRETS OF THE EASTERN SHORE
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Delmarva storyteller, Jim Duffy from Secrets of the Eastern Shore and WBOC TV’s Delmarva Life, is going to tell truelife tales from Delmarva days gone by. 410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org
MOVIE MATINEE REGRETTING YOU
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m.
Come catch a movie you may have missed in the theaters. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org
BUILDING BRIDGES
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30 p.m. Test your engineering skills. For ages 611 years. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org
OCEAN CITY LIONESS LIONS CLUB MEETING
Ocean City Lions Club, 12534 Airport Road, Berlin, 6 p.m. This community service organization meets the first Tuesday of each month. Any lady desiring to help those in need is welcome. 410-251-5824
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 pro-
vided. Check the Facebook page “Beach Heroes-OC” for weekly meeting locations. All are welcome.
JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING
Tuesdays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 7 p.m. www.jw.org
TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY
Tuesdays - Worcester County Health Department, 9730 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3:30-4:30 p.m. TOPS is a weekly support and education group promoting weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. 410289-4725
OC KNITTING CLUB
Tuesdays - Worcester County LibraryOcean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m.
ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE
Tuesdays - Experienced dancers and others interested in watching or learning more are welcome, 7-9:30 p.m. No partner required. Info: TangobytheBeach.com.
ZUMBA TONING TUESDAYS
Tuesdays - Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 5:30 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com
WEIGHT MANAGEMENT AND WELLNESS GROUP
Tuesdays - Holy Trinity Cathedral, 11021 Worcester Highway, 2-2:45 p.m. Use the weight loss program/app/plan of your choice. Free and open to everyone. 410-641-4882, www.htcanglican.org/activities.
BABY TIME
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Songs, stories and giggles. For ages 0-2 years. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org
AARP MEETING
Ocean City 50plus Center, 104 41st St., 10 a.m. Social and refreshments begin at 9:30 a.m. The guest speaker will be from TidalHealth Hospital. Upcoming travel opportunities and more provided. New members welcome. Bob McCluskey, 410-250-0980
BOOK CLUB @ 50PLUS CENTER: ‘A RIFT IN THE EARTH’ BY JAMES RESTON, JR. Snow Hill 50plus Center, 4767 Snow Hill Road, 11 a.m. Stop by Snow Hill Library or the 50plus Center to pick up your book, then meet for a great discussion. 410-632-5622, worcesterlibrary.org
HOMESCHOOL HISTORY
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 12 p.m. Join us to learn facts about different historical time periods through reading, writing, and games. For ages 6-11 years.
410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org
SKILLS TO SUCCEED AT WORK
Maryland’s Coast - Worcester County Tourism & Economic Development, 107 W. Green St., Snow Hill, 12 p.m. A class about the soft skills that get you hired, work well with others, and grow. Register: https://worcesterlibrary.libcal.com/eve nt/16533562. 410-632-5622
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
MARYLAND 250 TRIVIA
Maryland’s Coast - Worcester County Tourism & Economic Development, 107 W. Green St., Snow Hill, 2 p.m. Compete to see who knows the most about the state of Maryland. 410-632-5622
PAJAMA STORY TIME
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 6:30 p.m. Wear pajamas and bring your favorite stuffie to snuggle while you enjoy stories and songs to wind down to bedtime. For ages 0-5 years. 410-641-0650, worcesterlibrary.org
KIWANIS CLUB MEETING
Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. Last Wednesday of the month meetings are offsite and information can be found on the website and Facebook. www.kiwanisofopoc.org.
CASH BINGO
Wednesdays - Ocean City Elks Lodge 2645, 13708 Sinepuxent Ave. Door open at 5 p.m., bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. Food available before bingo and at intermission. Open to the public. 443-605-5028
PARENT RESOURCE NIGHT
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 5:30-8 p.m. Hosted by Special Education Citizens Advisory Council. Vendors supporting students with disabilities. Public welcome. Snacks provided. Pam Green, 410-430-3923
CHAIR YOGA
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 10 a.m. Join Tidal Health Community Health Educator Bobbi McDonald for a morning of stretching and relaxation. Registration required: 410-957-0878. worcesterlibrary.org
STORY TIME: ‘THERE WAS AN OLD LADY’
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Crafts, songs and stories. For ages 2-5
years. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org
STORY TIME: ‘WHERE IS THE GREEN SHEEP?’
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and rhymes. For ages 2-5 years. 410-632-5622, worcesterlibrary.org
BINGO
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Play a lively game of Bingo and win fun prizes. 410-524-1818
MERRY MAKERS: PRESSED FLOWER LANTERNS
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Transform plain glass yogurt jars into lovely artful lanterns with pressed flowers. Registration required: 410-2084014. worcesterlibrary.org
EARLY READERS BOOK CLUB - ‘DRAGON’S FAT CAT: AN ACRON BOOK’ Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4:30 p.m. Enjoy a shared reading experience as a group. Afterwards children will play games or do crafts that relate to the story. Best for ages 6-8 years. 410-6410650, worcesterlibrary.org
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
TEEN TIME: PAINTING POTS
Ocean Pines library, 11107 Cathell Road, April 6-30, 3:30 p.m. Decorate your own flower pot for a plant. All materials provided. While supplies last. 410-2084014
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
Crossword answers from page 64
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.
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 410-289-3101
The Plaza Condominium is seeking a detail-oriented Security and Property Preservation Officer to conduct vigilant patrols of our parking decks, pool areas, and building perimeter to ensure guest safety and site integrity. You will be responsible for adhering to facility standards, monitoring equipment like the handicap lift, and maintaining a pristine, hazard-free environment through proactive inspections.
Application in person 9800 Coastal Hwy, OCMD Send resume to: Jlentz.plazaoc@gmail.com
For more information: Josh Lentz, 410-723-3300.
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
HIGH POINT NORTH CONDOMINIUMS 11400 Coastal Highway, OCMD NOW HIRING FT/YR CUSTODIAN/ MAINTENANCE ASSISTANT
Hours 8am-4pm, must work summer weekends, off Tuesday/Wednesday. Call Tom 410-524-1761 or fax resume to 410-524-0030
PGN Crab House 29th Street & Coastal Hwy, Now Hiring for • Waitstaff
• Kitchen Help Apply within in person after 11:00 am.
MOTEL
Now Hiring
• NIGHT AUDITOR
• DEEP CLEANER/ HOUSEKEEPER
Apply in person 32nd St., Baltimore Ave.
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.
$120,000 BUYS YOU A BEAUTIFUL 2024 MOBILE HOME! Minutes to the beach and next door to county boat ramp. $700/mo. Lot Rent pays for water/sewer/ trash/taxes. Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555
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
OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT
Looking for space, comfort and great views?
FT, YR For condo located on 47th St., Bayside, OC, MD. Must work weekends during summer months, off Tues. & Wed. Duties include painting, power washing, light clean up, light maintenance. Pay $18-$22/hr. Benefits include 100% paid health & life insurance. Call 443-523-5739
Available Immediately 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
Yearly & Seasonal Rentals
We Welcome Pets 7700 Coastal Hwy 410-524-7700 www.holidayoc.com ———————————
Mention this ad for $10 OFF Application Fee!
Classifieds 410-723-6397
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.
OCEAN PINES COMMERCIAL OPPORTUNITY
Very rare, unique Property For Lease or Sale 2,800 sq ft - Plus garage Looking at Southgate Pond. Signage available on Ocean Parkway. $3,500 per month Call Brittany 443-880-2486
Classified Deadline is Monday @ 5pm
Do you have an old bicycle not being used? It could mean a world of difference to a hard-working international student. We are looking to get as many bikes as possible. Your donation will be tax-deductible. Contact Gary at 443-975-3065.
WANT TO BUY I BUY ALBUMS! 410-430-5349
YARD SALE
COMMUNITY YARD SALEBerlin, Decatur Farm. Off Route 113, across from Stephen Decatur Park Saturday, April 4th, 7:30am to Noon.
BOAT FOR SALE
2007 TRIUMPH 215CC
150 YAMAHA Chart Plotter, GPS, Sonar, Fish Finder, Marine Radio, Trailer has 4 new tires. Fresh bottom paint, new batteries. $20,000 HK Marine 443-235-8370
How well You know me, Yet, You reach for my broken, To lead me from here.
Serving the Newspapers of
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
Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-855-993-0969 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.
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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
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 8th Street
Ocean City, Maryland 21842
12605 Assawoman Drive, #101 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-26-000036, the undersigned Trustee will offer for sale at public auction in front of the condominium building located at 12605 Assawoman Drive, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, on
MONDAY, APRIL 20, 2026 AT 10:00 AM
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. 101 in the Starfish V Building, STARFISH III, IV & V CONDOMINIUM, together with an undivided percentage interest in the common elements thereof, as established pursuant to a Condominium Declaration and ByLaws recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland in Liber No. 470, folio 383, et seq., and subject to the Condominium Plats recorded therewith in Plat Book No. 48, folio 40, 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, and will be sold subject to a Deed of Trust recorded among the aforesaid Land Records in Liber No. 7897, folio 97, said Deed of Trust having had an original principal balance of $260,000.00 on January 4, 2021. 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 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
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JAMES E. CLUBB, JR., ESQ. 108 N. 8th Street Ocean City, Maryland 21842
THIRTEEN (13)
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
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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 _________________________________
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
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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
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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
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& COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL, MARYLAND
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 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
MICHAEL B MATHERS ESQ WEBB, WILBUR, MATHERS ILLUMINATI & LUKAS, LLP PO BOX 910 DOUSE & MATHERS, LLP SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910
OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
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
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 1-
305, 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.
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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, assigns, 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 descrip-
tion 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
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MICHAEL B MATHERS ESQ
WEBB, WILBUR, MATHERS ILLUMINATI & LUKAS, LLP
DOUSE & MATHERS, LLP PO BOX 910
SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910
OF
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 cred-
itor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 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
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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 FRIDAY, 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
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WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON CHRISTOPHER T. WOODLEY ESQ. 3509 COASTAL HWY. OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3334
NOTICE
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
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JAMES W. ALMAND ESQ
AYRES JENKINS GORDY & ALMAND, PA
6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
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 REPRESENTATIVE 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
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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
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NOTICE
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 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 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
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TOWN OF OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND
Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110 of the Code of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Zoning Ordinance for Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted by the Board of Zoning Appeals for Ocean City, Maryland in the Council Chambers of City Hall located on Baltimore Avenue and Third Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on:
Thursday, 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
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OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE
Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Class: "B" BEERWINE License: 7 Day, By: Clint Dempsey, 11431 Manklin Creek Road - 2F, Berlin, MD 21811.
For: North OC Bettys, Inc.
For the premises known as and located at:
T/A: Surfin Bettys 12701 Coastal Highway Ocean City, Maryland 21842
There will be a public hearing on the application at the Worcester County Government Center, Room 1102, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: April 15, 2026 @ 1:05 P.M.
The Board welcomes written or oral comments at said public hearing from any interested party. Information regarding this hearing can be found at www.co.worcester.md.us
OCD-4/2/2t
Ralph J. DiPietro, Esquire
Hofmeister Robinson & DiPietro
Executive Plaza II, Suite 601 11350 McCormick Road Hunt Valley, MD 21031 410-832-8822, ext. 5
RALPH J. DIPIETRO, ET AL.
Substitute Trustees Plaintiffs v. CABM CONTRACTOR LLC
AKA CABM CONTRACTORS, LLC
Defendant IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY Case No. C-23-CV-25-000363
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given this 24th 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 309 Purnell Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863 will be ratified and confirmed, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 27th 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 20th day of April, 2026, next.
The report states the amount of sale to be $80,000.00 and sold to GSJ Consulting, Inc.
Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court for Worcester County True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-4/2/3t
B. RANDALL COATES, ESQ. COATES, COATES, & COATES 204 WEST GREEN STREET P.O. BOX 293
SNOW HILL, MD 21863
SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Estate No. 21005 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF RICHARD VICTOR DINGES
Notice is given that Karen D. Parker, 6445 Bowden Rd., Newark, MD 21841-2129, was on March 25, 2026 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Richard Victor Dinges who died on January 14, 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.
Karen D. Parker 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: April 02, 2026
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VICTORIA L. O’NEILL ESQ. AYRES, JENKINS, GORDY & ALMAND, P.A. 6200 COASTAL HWY., SUITE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
SMALL ESTATE
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21030 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF NANCY E. MOLLOY
Notice is given that John S. Molloy, 11518 Quillin Way, Berlin, MD 21811-2567 was on March 25, 2026 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Nancy E. Molloy who died on October 25, 2025, without a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.
All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.
John S. Molloy
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: April 02, 2026
Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland
P04-26 – Ocean City Boardwalk Pedicab Franchise Services
The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Ocean City Boardwalk Pedicab Franchise Services and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents. Proposal Documents for the Ocean City Boardwalk Pedicab Franchise Services may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Leonard at dleonard@oceancitymd.gov, or by calling (410) 7236643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s
(https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their Proposals. The Town is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any third-party service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.
A Pre-Proposal Meeting will be held on MONDAY, APRIL 6TH, 2026 AT 10:00AM EST at the Procurement Conference Room, 214 65th Street, Ocean City, Maryland 21842 for this Request for Proposal. 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 FRIDAY, APRIL 10TH, 2026, AT 4:00PM EST, for any questions concerning the Proposal Documents. Addendum will be posted by close of business on MONDAY, APRIL 13TH, 2026
Sealed Proposal Documents are due no later than MONDAY, APRIL 20TH, 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 CON-
FERENCE ROOM, ON TUESDAY, APRIL 21ST, 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 (P04-26 – Ocean City Boardwalk Pedicab Franchise Services) must be noted on the outside of the package.
Late Proposal Documents will not be accepted.
Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation.
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THE GELLER LAW GROUP, PLLC
JANELL F. WHEELER 4000 LEGATO RD, STE. 1100 PMB 6084 FAIRFAX, VA 22033-2893
TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 21075
NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Circuit court of Arlington County, Virginia appointed (1) Matthew Patrick Harrington, 14160 Roller Coaster Rd., Colorado Springs, CO 809212029; and (2) Paul Herbert Harrington III, 1901 N. Cameron St., Arlington, VA 22207-2018 as the Co-
Executor of the Estate of Paul H. Harrington Jr., AKA: Paul Herbert Harrington Jr. who died on July 21, 2025 domiciled in Virginia, USA.
The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is (1) Debbie Kivitz, 7910 Woodmont Ave., Ste. 1350, Bethesda, MD 20814-7069; and (2) Debbie Kivitz, Hamelburg Law, 7910 Woodmont Ave., Ste. 1350, Bethesda, MD 20814-7069.
At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: Worcester County.
All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.
(1) Matthew Patrick Harrington (2) Paul Herbert Harrington III 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: April 02, 2026
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B. RANDALL COATES ESQ COATES, COATES, & COATES 204 WEST GREEN STREET P O BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863 SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of DORIS M HANCOCK Estate No. 21077 Notice is given that DAVID W. HANCOCK III whose address is 5431 RABBIT KNAW RD STOCKTON, MD 21864-2153 was on MARCH 26, 2026 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of DORIS M HANCOCK who died on JANUARY 08, 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 claims 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-4/2/1t
GINA D. SHAFFER, ESQ. SHAFFER LAW OFFICE 11033 CATHELL RD. BERLIN, MD 21811-9328
SMALL ESTATE
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21076 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MARY ANN DAVIS
Notice is given that David T. Speier, 331 Walnut Hill Dr., Berlin, MD 21811-1189, was on March 26, 2026 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Mary Ann Davis who died on January 03, 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.
David T. Speier
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: April 02, 2026
OCD-4/2/1t
Chlorine Contact and Ground Storage Tank Inspections
Worcester County is seeking Bids from qualified Vendors for Chlorine Contact and Ground Storage Tank Inspections 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 bid page on the County’s website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their bids. Worcester County is not responsible for the content of any Bid Document received through any third party bid service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Bid Documents.
A pre-bid conference will be held on Monday, April 13, 2026, at 2 p.m. at the Ocean Pines WWTP Ops Building at 1000 Shore Lane, Berlin, MD 21811
The last date/time to submit questions for clarification will Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at noon.
Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than Wednesday, May 13, 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 “BidCCT and GST Inspections” in the lower left-hand corner.
Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for award of this project.
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George Island Landing –Replacement of Boat Ramp, Bulkhead, and Revetment Improvements
Worcester County is seeking Bids from licensed marine contractors for George Island Landing – Replacement of Boat Ramp, Bulkhead, and Revetment Improvements in conformity with the requirements contained in the Bid Documents. Bid Documents for the above ref-
erenced 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 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 meeting will be on Monday, April 6, 2026, at 1 p.m. at the George Island Landing Boat Ramp (eastern end of George Island Landing Road in Stockton, Maryland 21864).
The last date/time for questions will be Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at noon.
Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than Tuesday, April 28, 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 –George Island Landing” in the lower left-hand corner.
Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for award of this solicitation.
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DONNA P. BROWN
THE BROWN LAW FIRM, LLC 5000 THAYER CTR., STE. C OAKLAND, MD 21550-1139
OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21072 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF OLIVER W. CORBIN
Notice is given that Rhoda E. Corbin, 123 Bookdale Ave., New Rochelle, NY 10801-2818, was on March 30, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Oliver W. Corbin who died on February 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 30th 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 30th 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.
Rhoda E. Corbin
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: April 02, 2026
OCD-4/2/3t
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21069 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF THERESA J. ALBRIGHT AKA: THERESA JOAN ALBRIGHT
Notice is given that Tammy Donnelly, PO Box 7105, Arlington, VA 22207-0105, was on March 20, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Theresa J. Albright who died on February 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 20th 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 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.
Tammy Donnelly 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: April 02, 2026
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NOMIKI B. WEITZEL ESQ. LAW OFFICE OF NOMIKI BOULOUBASSIS WEITZEL & ASSOC.
7652 BELAIR RD.
BALTIMORE, MD 21236-4088
TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21079 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JASON W. HAHN
AKA: JASON WARREN HAHN
Notice is given that Kelly A. Kunze, 101 Theodora Ct., Forest Hill, MD 21050-3250, was on March 30, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Jason W. Hahn who died on February 05, 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 30th day of September, 2026.
All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the dece-
dent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 30th 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.
Kelly A. Kunze
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: April 02, 2026
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SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of HAL V. BRASWELL Estate No. 21074 Notice is given that DINA L. BRASWELL KEANE whose address is 10708 GARRETT LN., BERLIN, MD 21811-3153 was on MARCH 24, 2026 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of HAL V. BRASWELL who died on DECEMBER 17, 2025 without a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.
All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the 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-4/2/1t
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improvement, and capital equipping of a school program.
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(April 3, 2026) The Maryland Senate has authorized funding for a new special education school on the lower Eastern Shore, a move that would give local families more options closer to home.
The Senate’s proposed 2027 capital budget includes $2.5 million for a Kennedy Krieger Eastern Shore behavioral health facility in Wicomico County. The budget next moves to the House of Delegates for approval.
A consortium of schools and educators has spent the last three years advocating for such a facility on the Shore, according to Sen. Mary Beth Carozza, the lead sponsor of the funding request.
Carozza (R-38, Worcester) testified before a Senate committee on Feb. 18, alongside Wicomico County school superintendent Micah Stauffer. Her funding request was added as a legislative amendment to the proposed capital budget last month.
said in a March 25 statement.
“It will benefit both the students with the greatest mental health needs who cannot be served in the public schools,” she added, and “will allow teachers and school personnel to focus on the students in their classrooms.”
Excluding the Kennedy Krieger project, this budget grants $10 million in earmarks to the Lower Shore counties. That includes $880,000 for Worcester County.
tensive Care Unit. This grant is contingent on the hospital providing matching funds.
For a recycling center expansion in Worcester County, the Senate has pledged a $50,000 grant.
Elsewhere on the shore, the Senate’s grant funding would provide $3.1 million for Wicomico County projects.
The funding, as outlined in Senate Bill 283, would provide a grant to Kennedy Krieger Institute Inc. for the acquisition, planning, design, construction, expansion, repair, renovation, reconstruction, site
Of the state’s 70 nonpublic special education schools and facilities, only one is located on the Eastern Shore, The Benedictine School, in the Caroline County town of Ridgely.
A $700,000 grant for Diakonia, the West Ocean City homeless outreach nonprofit, would help pay for its supportive living campus project. Grant money also would help to fund an expanded Veterans Service Center.
“The need for this behavioral health facility is real and urgent, and I am very grateful that Senate leadership included this Shore priority in this year’s capital budget,” Carozza
For Berlin’s TidalHealth Atlantic (formerly Atlantic General Hospital) the Senate has earmarked $130,000 toward new patient rooms and a nursing station for the hospital’s In-
That includes a $1.7 million fund match for TidalHealth Peninsula Regional hospital in Salisbury, $1.1 million for renovations to Blackwell Hall at Salisbury University, and $75,000 for a park in Fruitland.
Somerset County would see more than $6 million in proposed Senate grants. The majority of those funds –$4.6 million – are earmarked for three separate projects at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore in Princess Anne.
Lawmakers have an April 6 deadline to finalize the fiscal 2027 budget. Grant funding would put a Kennedy Krieger facility in Wicomico; House must OK
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plan application filed with the city, the existing bank building would be demolished to make room for a 658square-foot drive-thru coffee shop.
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(April 3, 2026) Ocean City officials are reviewing a company’s plans for a 7 Brew Coffee location at the Montego Bay Shopping Center.
While the project is still in the technical review phase, Ocean City Planning and Community Development Director George Bendler confirmed this week that his office has received a site plan application from 7 Brew Coffee to establish a location at the existing Farmers Bank of Willards building along Coastal Highway near 128th Street.
Company CEO Robert Zimmer said the plan is to replace the building with a 7-Brew establishment, which could open next year.
“Right now, we have to go through some state highway stuff,” he said. “But we are looking to, hopefully – if we get the approvals – start in the fall and be open March 1 of next year.”
With a new location in Cambridge, and another soon to open in Salisbury, 7 Brew is now setting its sights on the resort. According to its site
Zimmer said the company is also working with the Maryland State Highway Administration, whose officials met with city leaders last week to review upcoming roadway projects. In his presentation to the Ocean City Council last Tuesday, District Engineer Mark Crampton confirmed the agency’s involvement in the project.
“We haven’t finished the reviews on that yet,” he told the council.
Specifically, staff have asked that the company and the property owner coordinate with State Highway to evaluate the closure of an access point along Coastal Highway, according to city documents. They also noted State Highway’s request for a traffic impact analysis, which would evaluate the potential for queued vehicles to extend off the site and onto the highway.
Bendler said this week that no approvals have been granted, and that the application is still being reviewed.
“We have received a submission but we have not scheduled a Planning Commission meeting for that submission,” he said.
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By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer
(April 3, 2026) There are some significant changes in condominium underwriting guidelines recently announced by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
The changes affect both project review standards and insurance requirements for condominium projects and individual units.
The new changes mean smaller condo projects may
benefit from streamlined reviews and improved access to financing, while larger projects will face higher reserve and documentation expectations. The changes bring greater insurance flexibility which may reduce premium pressure on master association policies, but it may also shift costs to unit owners.
Pam Rocco, Sales Manager with Movement Mortgage in Ocean City said, “There are several important changes coming for condominiums between now and January 2027 that are worth paying close attention to.
One of the biggest positives is that roofs can now be insured at Actual Cash Value, which is a major win and could help associations better manage insurance costs. On the other
hand, reserve requirements will be increasing from 10% to 15% starting in January 2027, so it will be important for associations to begin preparing now to meet those higher thresholds. Overall, these updates create both opportunities and new planning considerations for condo communities.”
Project and Financial Review Changes
• Expanded Waiver of Project Review: New and established condo projects with 10 or fewer units may now qualify for a waiver of project review. Projects with 5–10 units must not be part of a master association or larger development.
budget for projects reviewed under the Full Review process as of January 2027.
• Stricter Reserve Study Use: If a reserve study is used instead of standard benchmarks, lenders must now rely on the highest recommended reserve amount in the study.
Key insurance updates in response to rising premiums and availability challenges include:
• Roofs No Longer Required to Be Insured at Replacement Cost: Roofs must still be insured, but policies may now permit certain roof losses, typically wind or hail, to be settled on an actual cash value (ACV) basis.
• Elimination of the Limited Review process: Projects previously eligible for Limited Review must now undergo a Full Review, unless they qualify for a waiver.
• Higher Reserve Requirements: Required reserves for capital expenditures and deferred maintenance increase from 10% to 15% of the annual
• Higher Allowable Deductibles: Master property insurance policies may now include per-unit deductibles of up to $50,000, provided unit owners carry supplemental coverage sufficient to cover the deductible amount.
Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record for Keller Williams Realty Delmarva in Ocean City, Maryland.
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(April 3, 2026) A solar farm on the outskirts of Berlin that drew opposition from the Worcester County Commissioners is advancing anyway under state authority that overrides local zoning.
Arizona-based developer TurningPoint Solar is scheduled to meet next Wednesday with the county’s Technical Review Committee for a major site plan review. If approved, the proposal would next be heard by the county’s planning commission for a favorable or unfavorable vote, followed by a public hearing.
Worcester County’s zoning does not allow utility-scale solar farms like this one within residential areas. But Maryland’s high court in 2019 ruled that the state’s Public Service Commission has final say over placement of solar farms and may preempt local zoning. The best a county or municipality can do is write a strongly worded letter in opposition.
That’s what happened a year and a half ago. Before TurningPoint had even filed the project paperwork with the state, the developer came before the commissioners for a courtesy consultation. The commissioners were skeptical of the plan and unanimously voted to oppose the proposal.
Commissioner Eric Fiori (District 3, West Ocean City) expressed serious concern about building a renewable energy project in a spot already designated for future residential development.
“It’s really kind of affecting the way we’ve planned the growth of Berlin and growth of Worcester County. I think there’s a lot of better sites than this particular one,” he said at the Oct. 1, 2024, meeting.
A month after that meeting, TurningPoint filed an application with the Public Service Commission. Following two public comment hearings last year, the commission on Jan. 13 gave its approval for the project to move forward, a regulatory order known as a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity.
That state certification typically hinges on local site plan review to address technical details like screening, stormwater, and road access, which is why the project is headed to the county’s Technical Review Committee.
The 5-megawatt project would be constructed on a triangular parcel of agricultural land off Old Ocean City Boulevard. Its 13,780 solar panels would take up 35.5 acres of the 137acre site. It would be enclosed by a 7foot security fence and buffered by 35
feet of landscaping.
Power generated by the facility would be delivered through Delmarva Power’s electric distribution grid to Maryland subscribers, rather than sold directly to a single utility buyer.
TurningPoint spokeswoman Christy Scott said the proposed project would serve more than 800 residential subscribers, with a minimum of 40% of the capacity of the project set aside for low-income customers.
She also said the company scouted the site for a solar farm based on its proximity to a nearby substation, the landowner’s interest, and interconnection viability with the utility, among other factors.
TurningPoint says the project would generate $3.5 million in tax revenue from its land lease and employ about 50 people during construction. The company has been developing solar projects in Maryland since 2016.
By 2030, renewable energy sources must account for 50% of the electricity sold by suppliers in Maryland, including a 14.5% requirement for solar power, according to state law. That mandate was set by the 2019 Clean Energy Jobs Act, which expanded the state’s original 2004 renewable energy law.
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The spacious kitchen with center island opens to a breakfast oom. The family r area and family r rooom houses a double-sided, see-through fireplace and more built-in shelves. On the other side of the fireplace is a sunroom and a recently added and chthatof wonderful screened-in por fffers great space to enjoy the scenic setting.
The 1st floor primary bdrm offffers brand new carpet, tray ceilings and crown molding, a large primary
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(April 3, 2026) More than a month after February's blizzard left Ocean Pines blanketed by fallen trees and branches, officials say the continuing cleanup efforts are stalling because of residents adding everyday yard waste to the piles of storm debris.
At the Ocean Pines Association’s Board of Directors meeting this week, OPA General Manager John Viola said the cleanup began the week of March 2, following the heavy snowfall and wind of the Feb. 22 winter storm.
Residents were told to assemble any broken limbs in a pile at the top of their property for OPA Public Works crews to collect. Viola noted that he authorized overtime and the hiring of outside vendors to assist with debris collection, and that the
work continues. Officials expect all neighborhoods to be free of the storm waste by April 10.
Officials said, however, that the effort has been slowed by some Ocean Pines citizens using the courtesy service to dispose of discarded trees and branches unrelated to winter weather.
“We’ve been picking it up; we’re a little behind, but here’s what’s happening: We do it, people put more brush out there,” Viola said. “The brush that we’re seeing, the trees that we’re seeing cut down, everybody is using it as an opportunity to clean out their yards, not just from the storm. That’s just taking us more time to do it.”
The general manager added that OPA Board President John Latham has asked the staff to be sure the cleanup is completed by the start of
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“I believe we’ll have everything reasonably done so that I can utilize that team for the opening of Ocean Pines,” Viola said. “We have brought in outside contractors. We continue to bring them out. I authorized it because I do want to get it done…And we will.”
According to Linda Martin, OPA’s senior director of administration, Republic Services, the company that handles garbage collection in Ocean Pines, will also pick up debris if residents tie their waste into bundles of a maximum length of four feet, or place the limbs in paper bags.
“So if you do not want to wait you can do that,” Martin said.
Community officials reiterated that homeowners must keep any yard debris intended for storm-related pickup limited to the branches that fell during the blizzard.
“What I’m finding is that a neighborhood will get done, and then two days later, someone decides, ‘Hey, I could trim down my tree,’” Director Elaine Brady said. “They’re only going to do it once in your neighborhood. If they’ve already been through, it's not going to do you any good to throw your stuff back on the curb. It's going to sit until you hire somebody to come and get it for you.”
Phillips Plaza Shopping Center decision expected
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(April 3, 2026) Recently rezoned properties will be included in an updated zoning map that will soon come before the Ocean City Council for approval.
At its March 24 meeting, the City Council voted to proceed with a resolution updating the city’s zoning district map. The amended map, according to city staff, will include two recently rezoned properties – the former Calvin B. Taylor Bank at 91st Street and the Phillips Plaza Shopping Center at 21st Street.
“We have two items that will be updated on our zoning map …,” Planning and Community Development Director George Bendler told council members last week. “One was formally adopted and one is a unique situation.”
Bendler said the first change involved the Phillips Plaza Shopping Center, which came before the City Council last year with a request to re-
See FORMER Page 89
zone the easterly half of the property from R-3 residential to LC-1 commercial. The second, he said, involved a zoning reversion at the old Taylor Bank uptown.
“This property has been a bank for many, many years and was zoned LC1,” he explained. “But uniquely, through an ordinance on February 6, 1984, this was given a conditional rezoning and it
had expressed conditions that if it ever converted from a bank to anything else it would revert back to R-1.”
Bendler said the property was demolished back in September and that a certificate of occupancy was recently issued for a single-family home on the site. He added that there were plans for additional single-family homes.
“So now that we have officially torn down the bank … we want to
clean up the zoning map and officially recognize that as R-1.”
It should be noted that the landlord of Phillips Plaza is challenging the city in court over his plans to host a cannabis dispensary at the property. Council President Matt James asked if staff still thought the rezoning “was the right move.”
“It was a lengthy process,” was all Bendler provided.
With no further discussion, a motion to advance the updated zoning map to a resolution passed in a 5-0 vote, with Councilman John Gehrig absent. As part of that motion, the City Council last week also accepted the planning department’s annual report, which highlighted the site plan approvals, conditional uses, zoning code amendments, and zoning appeals that occurred in 2025, to name a few.
Pocomoke City landmark set to reopen for Mem. Day
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(April 3, 2026) A last-ditch fundraising surge saved the Delmarva Discovery Museum in Pocomoke City from closing its doors, but the nonprofit still faces an uncertain future beyond 2026 without sustained public support.
After giving 72 hours’ notice, leaders of the Pocomoke City landmark reported a flood of donations and an attendance bump that pulled it back from the brink. The museum will now reopen by Memorial Day weekend, according to a statement released Thursday.
“This museum is reopening because our community refused to let it disappear,” according to a March 26
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 & 11am Traditional with beautiful hymns by Greg Fraser
10:15 am
statement.
Still, the news is hardly a victory lap. While the museum says it’s on target to reach its $100,000 “survivability goal,” it still needs another $100,000 to stabilize operations and avoid another budget shortfall.
The museum’s board of directors shocked the community with a March 17 declaration that its financial woes were insurmountable, driven by months of poor attendance, rising costs, and declining revenue. Its final day was set for March 20.
The community responded immediately. Social media lit up with support and more than 300 people visited in person over 48 hours. Online donors contributed nearly $30,000 through a GoFundMe campaign.
Other anonymous supporters promised another $60,000 in matching pledges – but those donors expect a reset, not a rescue. Their gifts are contingent on internal changes to museum governance, operations, and long-term business model.
Continued revenue from other sources, like membership, admissions, retail sales, and grants, also will contribute to eventual financial stability, the museum added.
Executive Director Christy Gordon told OC Today-Dispatch last week that one of the museum’s biggest hurdles has been just paying the bills.
With an annual budget of $350,000 and $25,000 in monthly costs, she said it’s been challenging to stay on top of rising costs for animal husbandry, building operations, wages, and utilities.
“We have a 16,000-square-foot building. Electric is expensive. Fish food for the otters was $100 – now it’s $140 and it’s half the size. Everything has gotten so much more expensive. We do our best with the money that we have to tell everybody that we’re here,” Gordon said.
They’ve also taken an unexpected financial hit at the museum gift shop.
“One of our biggest revenues is the field trips, where the kids used to shop. The kids aren’t shopping now,” Gordon added. “We have really felt that.”
Moving forward, museum leadership plans to “aggressively examine and improve” its operations, fundraising, grant writing, and community involvement.
Plans now include sending out a community survey asking for ideas about new events and exhibits. A “Friends of the Museum” advisory council will be established. Solicitations are going out for new board members and volunteers.
“We know what we need to do, we know what we want to do,” Gordon said, “but we can’t do it without funds.”
An additional planned outage is expected in fall to complete maintenance on the remaining two transformers.
(April 3, 2026) The Town of Berlin Electric Department has announced two scheduled town-wide power outages in May to allow for maintenance on substation transformers on Schoolfield Street.
The first outage will take place on Saturday, May 9, from 1 to 6 a.m., during which one transformer will be removed for preventative maintenance, testing, and painting. A second outage is scheduled for Saturday, May 16, from 1 to 7 a.m., when the transformer will be reinstalled and a second unit removed for similar maintenance work.
Electric Utility Director Tim Lawrence emphasized the importance of the project, stating, “These outages are necessary to conduct preventative maintenance, which will help prevent future long-term power outages.”
Maintenance projects of this nature are typically scheduled during the spring and fall months when electricity demand is lower due to milder temperatures and reduced reliance on heating and cooling systems.
Outages are also planned overnight and on weekends to minimize disruption for residents and businesses.
All scheduled work is weather-dependent, as much of it must be performed outdoors. If the dates are rescheduled, updates will be issued as soon as possible.
For updates or additional information, residents are encouraged to monitor official Town of Berlin communications. For questions, please contact Berlin Electric Utility Director Tim Lawrence at 410-629-1713 or tlawrence@berlinmd.gov.
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(April 3, 2026) After months on the market and a sometimes-contentious sales process, Snow Hill officials have finalized the sale of their downtown firehouse for $300,000.
The three-member Town Council voted unanimously Tuesday night to approve a second reading of the ordinance facilitating the sale.
Deborah Wayland, of Eastern Shore Fine Events, made the offer on the 75year-old Green Street property. She plans to convert the space into an events venue and will take on the cost of bringing the building up to code.
Wayland reportedly plans to use the space for small events and storage, and is also open to leasing space back to the town for events and storage purposes, according to realtor Clint Bickford, who addressed the issue at a previous town meeting.
The council initially approved the sale Feb. 11 in a 2-1 vote. Councilman Eddie Lee abstained from that vote, saying he couldn’t support what he felt was a below-market price.
Officials had previously tabled the decision after some disagreement over how to proceed.
At a Jan. 13 meeting, Councilwoman Margaret Ann Fletcher said she wanted
the town to increase the list price to $375,000.
Realtor Bryan Coates, who handled the listing, told her that the offer in hand was strong and finding another buyer would be “very difficult.”
Councilman Aaron Lumpkins called the offer “the best value for the town.”
“I feel like a vote to sell it is a vote to save it. We don’t have the resources to bring it up to code. This person is willing to come in and do it to get their occupancy permit,” he said Jan. 13.
Snow Hill listed the former firehouse in June 2025 for $325,000 after determining it would be too expensive to bring it ip to code.
The two-story complex, which the council deemed surplus in 2023, served for decades as home to Snow Hill’s volunteer fire company, which relocated outside of downtown in 2002.
Town Manager Rick Pollitt has stated community support for the sale has been “overwhelming” and created a buzz for the downtown’s future growth.
Also Tuesday, the council approved the sale of surplus property at 301 Willow Street, which property records show has been municipally owned since 2002.
The buyer, Preston Reed, proposed to renovate and convert the 96-year-old residential property into three two-bedroom rental units
Now that the Town of Ocean City has done away with all dumb paid parking in favor of smartphone app-based paid parking, we can look forward to complaints from a growing number of Luddites who have to deal with the fine because they don’t have one of the later model phones.
For those who don’t know, a Luddite is someone who is opposed to modern technology, automation, or modernization. In this instance, that would be favoring the somewhat old flip phone instead of the latest smart device — that also serves as a phone at times.
As the New York Times reported recently, there’s a movement of sorts among young people away from their screened devices, having recognized their negative effects on their mental state. This includes, apparently, being constantly bothered by messages and pop-ups that are simply wastes of time.
It just figures that when paid parking reaches its smartphone technological peak, smartphone users begin to question their total dependence on them for everyday living.
It’s also inevitable that there will be soft spots in this parking plan, since some people won’t want to add another app to their already overloaded phones.
According to Time Magazine, the average person has more than 80 apps installed on their smartphone, even though they only use about 9 of them daily. And some people only use their phones for — gasp —making phone calls.
That’s just the way things are these days, when technological advances fall out of fashion more quickly than they used to or are upstaged by something newer on the market.
Nevertheless, it’s been a mighty big shift away from the old coin-operated meters these past couple of years. and this meterless approach is a much more efficient way to collect what’s owed.
Still, this will be old hat too before you know it, and the Luddites who object to the current plan now will look back on it fondly when the next round of changes are instituted.
For a person who doesn’t like to be told what to do, I’m really struggling to adjust to a world in which everything seems to be connected just so it can boss me around.
“Alert: Hello. This is your medical center reminding you that you have a reminder coming up in six days to remind you that you have an appointment next month and will be reminded of it two more times.”
one convenient location,” your “car care convenience calendar” and all the assorted loyalty discount programs that know more about you than your closest family members.
“Alert: This is your RoFo loyalty account suggesting that you need to go to a dermatologist to have that spot checked out.”
“What?” I respond. “How do you know that? You job is to get me 10 cents off a gallon of gas and a better deal on fried chicken!”
NEWS
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By Stewart Dobson
“Alert: You placed an order for a three-piece chicken meal, with two sides and a large drink. It’s ready for you so come pick it up now.”
“Alert: This is your medical center again. We just accessed your chicken order. You’re not going to eat that, are you? You know a 40oz. Coke contains about 380 calories, right? And that chicken? That’s 840 right there, and the sides — did you really order two sides of mac and cheese? I mean, really? Well, that’s another 560 calories! If that’s what you want to do, fine. I think your cardiologist is going to find this verrrrrry interesting.”
“Alert: This is your cardiologist’s office. I have one word for you: cholesterol.”
“Alert: Hey! Your chicken’s getting cold!”
I’m not kidding. This whole “sign up for your convenience” business is getting out of hand, as is “order online for your convenience,” as well as “all your medical records in
“Alert: I cross-referenced your chicken order with your MyChart to check your cholesterol numbers and just happened to see some other stuff. Like, put on a little weight have we? Heh, heh?”
“That’s none of your business!”
“Alert: Well, it is now. See, we’ve decided...”
“We?”
“Yeah, Rofo, MyChart, CVS, Food Lion, WaWa, Hyundai Rewards, Amazon Prime, Xfinity, Peacock, Adobe, LG, and a few other close associates have decided to pool our information and put it in one location. For your convenience, of course.”
“Of course.”
Interestingly, I’ve always been paranoid about my personal information out there hobnobbing around the internet for anyone to see, but now it occurs to me that it’s too late to do anything about it.
There’s only one thing left to do and I’m going to marshal all my connections and loyalty contacts and have them petition the government for me to ask for a slight change in my information folder: I want a Social Insecurity number.
By Steve Green
It’s the end of an era on the north end of the Boardwalk, as the Flagship Hotel and its two commercial entities, Jonah and the Whale and the Riptide Pool Bar, will not reopen this summer. Demolition is planned in the near future, and the restaurant and pool bar are officially shuttered as prep work is underway.
The news side of this is the Flagship, built in 1964 on 26th Street oceanblock, will be demolished and replaced with an eight-story Springhill Suites by Marriott, featuring 135 rooms, a 3,800-square-foot restaurant and pool facilities. Back in June of 2025, the property owner, Harrison Group Hotels, sought a site plan extension for the hotel redevelopment through Dec. 15 of this year. As a result, it’s expected significant work will be taking place this summer and fall. It will most likely be at least 18 months before the hotel is opened.
The sentimental side of this is the Ruppert family posted on its two Facebook pages – Riptide Pool Bar and Jonah and the Whale – messages about the entities closing. The Riptide announcement was made last fall when the locally popular pool bar said it had learned the season closing party would actually be its end. This week, the Rupperts shared a post on Facebook confirming what many figured -- Jonah would also not be returning.
The post, including a family photo, read in part, “It is with great sadness that we share we will not be reopening this season. The Flagship Hotel, along with Jonah and the Whale, will be taken down and reimagined into something new. … For our family, Jonah was truly that—a family business in every sense of the word. We grew up here. We worked side by side through the busiest, most challenging moments, and also the most fun. Through it all, we came together, supported one another, and are incredibly grateful for the time we shared ...”
Together, the two closure posts resulted in more than 500 comments, ranging from regret to well wishes. It’s out with the old in with the new, but with it comes a ton of sentimentality. Hopefully, we will see the Rupperts again on the local hospitality scene.
***
Downtown Snow Hill will be the winner eventually with the Snow Hill council’s decision this week to sell the abandoned firehouse. While the $300,000 the town will receive is important (original listing was $325,000), the sale is more about economic development for the Green Street area. The buyer intends to make a major investment, transforming the space into an event venue and mixed-use project. It will fill a void, as seen during last weekend’s popular oyster roast.
Though the transaction appeared in jeopardy a couple months back, logic prevailed and the town will unload the surplus property near its asking price. In the end, Councilman Aaron Lumpkins had it right when he said back in January the deal was “the best value for the town,” adding, “I feel like a vote to sell it is a vote to save it. We don’t have the resources to bring it up to code. This person is willing to come in and do it to get their occupancy permit.”
***
Though the two often exchange disapproving comments of each other, one thing Maryland Gov. Wes Moroe and President Trump have in common is their current declining job approval ratings.
According to the latest UMBC poll of Marylanders, many state residents surveyed are unhappy. Moore, who is seeking re-election to a second term this fall, saw his approval rating drop to 48%, while 42% said they disapprove and 9% responded they didn’t know. More specifically, reasons for a disapproval vote include fiscal mismanagement, the state’s budget deficit, cost-of-living increases from rising fees and utility spikes that seem to have no end in sight.
***
While government staff have been working on budget prep for months, local elected officials will begin soon diving into their work on balancing spending with revenues.
For Worcester County, a hot issue is expected to be the rising water and sewer fees for some county residents. Residents are continuing to fume over the consequences from the county’s acknowledged mishandling of these utility accounts. The county has admitted not enough was done to address the shortfall between revenues and expenses in recent years. The result was exorbitant increases being passed on last year to consumers, and it was reported last week more fee hikes are coming for many. It’s early in the budget process, but early indications are the enterprise fund budget seeks a 7% increase, which would bring in about $1.3 million in revenue. Expenses are expected to spike by 3%, or $617,000. These suggested increases are going to be a major issue for the county to work through in the budget process.
Editor,
Saturday we were more than Democrats, Republicans or Independent voters; we were one united party peacefully and joyfully protesting against Trumps policies and for democracy.
The event centered on civic engagement, democratic values, and the power of everyday people. We celebrated our love for this country, freedom of speech and our right and privilege to vote.
We were part of a worldwide day of non-violent protests in over 3,300 locations in 33 countries with over 8 million participants. This is the largest single day protest ever in modern times in America. Some of the things we protested against were: the policies leading to our rising cost of living, the war in Iran, and what we have witnessed in Minnesota and elsewhere from ICE. Some of the things we protested for were: balance of power among our branches of government, compliance with our constitution, appropriate health care for all, care for our veterans, and quality education in safe schools.
It was cold and windy on the boardwalk so many of us stayed warm by dancing to the playlist Chris Seymour provided before and after the rally. Tim Tarr set the tone of the rally with his opening speech to an energetic, creative and determined crowd. Dr. Roxie Dennis, a central figure in the gathering, led us in song and chants as we walked from the tram station to the Fireman’s Memo-
rial creating a sense of unity that drew in even passersby.
Roxie then talked to us sending a clear and urgent message about the importance of voting. She spoke with warmth and conviction emphasizing that real change depends on participation – not just at rallies, but at the ballot box. Her words resonated with many in attendance, particularly first-time activists and younger folks who were finding their political voice. In a moment that captured the spirit of the rally, Roxie began reading many of the creative signs people had brought. Each sign reflected a different perspective – some humorous, some deeply personal, others sharply critical – but together they painted a vivid picture of concern and hope.
She then invited anyone who wished to speak. Several folks stepped forward to share their thoughts, frustrations and aspirations. The openness of the moment turned the rally into a conversation rather than a oneway address which allowed people to feel both seen and heard.
The O C “No Kings” rally wasn’t defined by a single speech or moment, but by the sense of connection that ran from start to finish. The event underscored that democracy is something people build together, step by step and voice by voice. Thanks to Susan Buyer and Toby Perkins who head up Indivisible Worcester Maryland and the rest of the O C rally planning committee.
Tish Michel Ocean City
On Wednesday, March 25, Rhonda H. Davis, APRN, CNP, spoke to the Kiwanis Club. An adult/gerontology nurse practitioner at the Pearl Clinic with over 30 years of clinical experience, Rhonda holds degrees in nutrition/dietetics from Bowling Green State University and nursing from Johns Hopkins University. Her career includes ICU, emergency room, and medical-surgical nursing, plus nutritional consulting through her company, Twilight Nutritional Consultants LLC. She specializes in diabetes and weight management, uniquely combining her expertise as both a registered nurse and registered dietitian to provide comprehensive primary care. Pictured, left, is Kiwanis President Sarah Walker with Davis.
WILLIAM T. GALLAGHER, JR.
Ocean City
William “Billy” Thomas Gallagher, Jr., age 60, of Ocean City, passed away Wednesday, March 25, 2026. Born on October 8, 1965, he was the son of the late William T. Gallagher, Sr, and Barbara (Stevens) Gallagher, to whom he was the picture of a perfect son. Born and raised in Baltimore City, in the Mayfield neighborhood with his two sisters, Elizabeth (Todd) and Bridget (Rose).
Billy attended high school at Calvert Hall College. After high school, he followed his passion for life and music with the Grateful Dead. Those who knew Billy have heard countless stories of his amazing times on tour, seeing music and his dear friends he traveled with. In 1990 his life changed when he met “the sunshine of his life", his daughter Amanda.
He eventually relocated to the Eastern Shore, specifically West Ocean City, where he worked in the restaurant business. Whether he was behind the bar, or in the kitchen, Billy was loved by everyone. He was known for his sense of humor and storytelling. He enjoyed his life in West Ocean City with his long-time
partner, Alicia Baker, and his loyal companion, Ty.
Billy’s world got even brighter in 2015, when he welcomed his first grandchild. Pop-pop, as he was called, would soon welcome two more grandchildren. Liam, Xander and Wyatt became the light of his life. He was looking forward to welcoming his first granddaughter in September.
Billy loved his family and enjoyed his title of Uncle Billy and adored his nieces and nephews, Billy, Sarah, Ian, Bridget, Molly, Carter and Ava.
Billy was truly one of a kind. A man of passion with a big heart. Whether it was sports, music, animals or friends he cared deeply and loved even more. He was a family man, the best son, brother, father and Pop-pop.
As Garcia would sing, “May the four winds blow you safely home.” NFA.
A viewing will be held on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at The Burbage Funeral Home from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. and from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. A mass will be held the following day, on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at Holy Savior Catholic Church, in Ocean City, at 11 a.m. Letters of condolence may be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral HomeBerlin.
largest GOP Women’s Club in Maryland
For more than 40 years, The Republican Women of Worcester County has united Republican Women to be effective and active in the Republican Party, through continuous public outreach, volunteerism and education. Club committees provide service to the community, veterans and active military with standing committees focused on Campaigns, Legislation, Programs and Caring for America.
The RWWC:
Supports Republican candidates
Assists in the political education of members
Registers voters and volunteering during elections
Collects care packages for military while on tour of duty
Supports the Worcester County Veterans Memorial, Flags Across America, Grace Center for Maternal and Women’s Health, The Cricket Center, Della’s Closet, Salisbury Children’s Choir, Stephan Decatur High School Band, Worcester County Technical School, Samaritans Purse, Believe in Tomorrow and College Republican and Republican Candidates
Donates an annual cash award to Salisbury College Republicans association and an annual monetary donation to county libraries to purchase MELP books
Full membership ($40 annually) is open to all registered Republican women. Associate membership ($20 annually) is open to Republican women who are active, full members of a chartered National Federation of Republican Women club and to registered Republican men.
Send a check made payable to RWWC to: RWWC-Dues, P.O. Box 1292, Berlin, MD 21811 Email
Sharen Greene Hastings, age 80, died Friday, March 20, 2026, at home in Ocean City, MD with her husband, Mike, by her side. Born in Ashland, Kentucky, she was the daughter of the late Edward R. Greene, Jr. and Marjorie (Swim) Greene.
She is survived by her husband, Albert Michael Hastings; nieces, Gretchen Hancock and her husband Chad, Stacie Brown and husband Chris, and Stephanie Valdivia and husband Jeff; four greatnieces, Emma, Sarah, Josephine and Elizabeth; one great great-niece, Lyra; brothers-in-law, Jack Hastings (Jane) and Ralph Hastings (Penny).
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Richard Michael Andrew Hastings; brother and sister-in-law, Edward R. Greene, III and Renee L. Greene.
Sharen was a graduate of Wicomico High School, class of 1963. After graduation she attended the University of Marland’s Nursing School and completed her education at Salisbury University, (then SalisContinued on Page 99
bury State College) to become a teacher for Worcester County Public Schools, primarily Ocean City Elementary School. During her career she earned a master’s degree in school counseling. Sharen was an extremely dedicated teacher and counselor. She always kept the best interests of her students, her priority. She will always be remembered by colleagues, friends and family as one who would always make them laugh! Sharen always had a smile on her face and enjoyed gathering with family and friends.
No services are planned at this time.
In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to Coastal Hospice, P.O. Box 1733, Salisbury, MD 21802.
Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com.
ROBERT WILLIAM SHAYER, JR.
Berlin
Robert William “Bob” Shayer, Jr., of Berlin, Maryland passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 22, 2026 surrounded by his family. Born on January 30, 1943 in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, he was the son of the late Robert Shayer Sr. and Leona (Roy) Shayer.
Robert is survived by his loving
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wife of 56 years, Kathleen (Merbler) Shayer, his sons Kevin (Pamela) of Florida and Brian of Sweden; his five beloved grandchildren — Ryan, Brendan, Oliver, Colin, Jenny, his step sister, Emily Clark of Delaware and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his sister Nancy (Shayer) Ensenat.
Throughout his life Robert was known for his passion for gardening, card playing, and cooking.
A proud graduate of Villanova University, Robert’s devotion to the Wildcats was legendary among family and friends. Whether it was basketball season or football Saturdays he never missed a game. His Villanova gear was worn with pride and his enthusiasm for the Wildcats became a cherished family tradition. Robert served in the United States Army for two years in Germany.
Robert spent his career in the insurance industry. In retirement he dedicated his time to family, friends, travel, gardening and the simple joy of being near the ocean.
A funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday April 9 at 1 p.m. at St. John Neumann Church, 11211 Beauchamp Rd., Berlin, Md. 21811.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Robert will be deeply missed by his family and friends.
Decatur girls team shows balance during early part of Bayside Conference slate
By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer
(April 3, 2026) Stephen Decatur’s girls’ tennis team is unbeaten so far this year.
Last year the team lost the Bayside Championship by one point to Queen Anne’s County high school.
On Monday afternoon, the Seahawks scored their third shut out of the year 7-0 against Wicomico high
school. In singles play, seed one Mina Nordstrom toppled Blaire Polidore 81. In seed two, Carly Culver won 8-0 over Riley Hendra. Seed three victory went to Zoe Rill over Maddison Passwater 8-0. Sam Smith took down Shama Joseph in seed 4 play 8-0.
In the double matches Stephen Decatur walked away with all three in 80 form. Playing were one seed Nordstrom and Culver beating Polidore and Riley Hendra. Two seed Lilly Nathan and Sarella Cohen took down Uhama Aleiys and Shaneed Shahzadi. The three seed game went to Harper Schramm and Josie Caimi over Nailea
Agistav and Angelle Dixon. Sophomore Rill won her singles match 8-0. She said she had only been playing for a month. She maybe following in her brother’s footsteps as an eventual seed one player.
She said, “he’s really good”. She commented about the girls on her team, “They’re all amazing.”
The Seahawks are 4-0 overall and 3-0 in conference matches with wins over James M. Bennett 6-1 and 7-0 victories over North Caroline and Parkside before Monday’s romp.
The Seahawks remained hot on Wednesday with a win over …
Seahawks secure wins over Wicomico, Bennett, North Caroline, lose to Bennett
By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer
(April 3, 2026) On March 30, Stephen Decatur’s varsity boys’ tennis team won 7-0 against Wicomico high school for their third straight win of the season.
Trey Rill and Bo Gehrig gave them three of those points, both winning
their single matches and combining their talents to win the first round of doubles, 8-3.
In seed 3 singles match, Zane Devito defeated Logan Uim 8-0. Nidigh Gupta was victorious in seed 4 singles over Gabe Austin 8-1.
In seed 2 doubles match, Drew Palmer and Wyatt Scrimeour toppled Logan Uim and Gabe Austin, 8-1. In the third seed, Vincent Zheng and Danial Kott toppled Zarin Williams and Jose Gil Remirez.
“The season’s going pretty well,
we’ve done pretty well so far,” said Coach David Giusti. “Happy with everybody’s performance, looking forward to the rest of the season. We have a couple things to build on, but I think we’re in a good spot.”
On March 25, the Seahawks defeated Parkside, 4-3. The Seahawks had another shut out on March 23 over North Caroline, 7-0. Decatur’s only loss so far came on March 20 to James M. Bennett, 6-1. The Seahawks are now 3-1 overall and 2-1 in conference matches.
Worcester Prep improved to 3-1 on the young season this week with a 14-9 win over James M. Bennett and a 14-3 victory against Caravel. Against Bennett on Monday, the Mallards were tied with the Clippers, 9-9, entering the fourth quarter. Worcester Prep was powered by junior midfielder Danny Kirwan, left, who tallied six goals and an assist, and junior attackman Kerrigan Russell-Wood, right, who had three goals and three assists. Prep lost its season opener to Parkside, 13-11, but has rebounded with three straight victories.
Bryn and Kate Wanner represented Ocean Pines Swim Team at Eastern Zone Sectionals. Kate became the first OPST swimmer to medal at this national level meet, earning seventh place in both the 100 & 200 Breast. Bryn was invited by USA Swimming to attend the Eastern/Southern Zone Camp this summer where only the fastest 30 girls (based on age 12/13 times) from the Eastern Zone (Maine to Virginia) are invited to attend. They are pictured with Head Coach Scott McIntire, far left. Left, team members are pictured competing at the Maryland LSC 8 & Under Championship meet.
SUBMITTED PHOTOS/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH
