07/10/2026 OC Today-Dispatch

Crowds of kids swarmed all over, but no serious crime reported as law enforcement went high profile. — INSIDE

Victor to face Democrat Vicky Wallace in Nov. 3 general election. — PAGE 6 Schanno over

by 31

County aims for one-year moratorium on data centers, cable landings — PAGE 18

Boardwalk business report changing Fourth of July feel

Business owners cite rowdy crowds, but say this year’s holiday was better than last

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 10, 2026) The crowd is different.

That’s the message many Boardwalk merchants and restaurateurs shared this week following a busy Fourth of July weekend in Ocean City.

“The city’s got to find a way to turn this back into a family event,” Shenanigan’s owner Greg Shockley told the OC Today-Dispatch this week. “While the concerts are wonderful, one of our signature events has always been the Fourth of July, families, red, white and blue. At this point, I don’t know if we’ve lost that, but we need to get it back.”

Business owners along the boards say this year’s Independence Day celebration was an improvement over last year, when disruptive gatherings, illegal activities and a Boardwalk stampede marred the city’s festivities and overwhelmed law enforcement and first responders. Through the city’s preparations, they noted a more visible police presence this year.

“From that perspective it was definitely better,” Park Place Jewelers owner Todd Ferrante said this week. “We just hope it will improve. From the previous year, we’ve lost families that typically came to the Boardwalk, because of that reason. We hope to have a non-eventful – other than the fireworks – July 4 moving forward.”

Dan King, owner of King’s Cotton Candy Stand, said most of the problems this year occurred at the conclusion of the fireworks. Walking to his car in West Ocean City Saturday night, he said he saw several people walking into town.

“They were all young people,” he said. “It was almost like you could see something was going on after the fireworks. It was like these people didn’t come for the fireworks, but what was after the fireworks.”

Both King and Shockley also shared stories of businesses closing right after the downtown fireworks display. For his part, King said his stand did not experience the lateevening rush it typically did at the end of the yearly fireworks show.

“This year, it was like the party was over …,” he said. “All the young people wanted to hang out and turn it into whatever it is. I think it was organized. I really believe the crowds, instead of it being a big mix of people, it was predominantly young people. It was almost like something didn’t feel right.”

The Dough Roller restaurant

owner Kevin Gibbs likened the crowds to “Senior Week,” when groups of high school graduates come to Ocean City in the early summer. He said he witnessed most of the activity walking home on the Boardwalk following the fireworks.

“It was young people, TikToking, few stupid fireworks here and there, they had people jump scared …,” he said. “I thought police handled it incredibly well.”

While noting the crowds in town, Gibbs said sales at his South Division Street business were down about 20%. He attributed the slump to downtown road closures implemented by the Ocean City Police Department in the hours preceding the fireworks.

“I think it’s insane the city can close a public street and cost my business and employees money,” he said, “and put us at a competitive disadvantage than the rest of the Boardwalk. You could have ridden any ride you wanted at Trimpers and never waited! On Fourth of July!”

For his part, Shockley said sales at Shenanigan’s were steady, but that both the crowds and the heat had some effect on business. He opined there were more young people on the Boardwalk this year than last, when a social media-driven takeover event brought hundreds to the resort.

“Talking to others on the Boardwalk – and we have rental properties and tenants, like the T-shirt shop –a lot of those guys closed,” he said. “They were overwhelmed with people coming in and shoplifting. They had more problems than we did.”

Hotelier Spiro Buas said Fourth of July business was strong, with each of his properties either meeting or exceeding last year’s numbers. The weather, he said, drove a lot of people to Ocean City for the holiday weekend.

However, he said downtown hotels did experience some problems –not with hotel guests, but with those hanging out in the streets or in the alleys, starting arguments and fighting.

“Hotel [guests] were great. And as you moved uptown, the issues went away,” he said. “Got a lot of comments about the fireworks this year, one of the best people have ever experienced.”

Michael James, who manages eight resort hotels under the James Hospitality brand, said gatherings near two of his uptown properties –Coastal Palms and Cayman Suites –had caused some noise disturbances for guests. However, he said the holiday weekend was a success from a business standpoint.

“Across the board, it was probably the strongest Fourth of July I’ve seen,” he said.

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Bertino in Ocean Pines primary race

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(July 10, 2026) Joe Schanno has defeated three-term incumbent Chip Bertino by 31 votes in the Republican primary in the Worcester County Commissioners’ Ocean Pines district.

The final tally for District 5 was 472 votes for Schanno and 441 for Bertino, according to a final canvass completed Monday by the Worcester County Board of Elections.

“I know you all had faith in me all along and I thank you. It was a challenge, for sure, but I am grateful to my family, my team and everyone in District 5 who voted for me. Up next, the general election in November where I will again be asking for your support and your vote,” Schanno wrote on his official campaign Facebook page.

Bertino did not return multiple requests for comment this week.

Schanno will go on to face Democratic challenger Vicky Wallace for the Ocean Pines district seat in the Nov. 3 general election. Wallace was unopposed in her primary bid.

Online results from the Maryland State Board of Elections showed Schanno with a lead in three of four categories of balloting in the July 23 Republican primary: in early voting, on primary election day, and among provisional votes. Bertino led in mail-in votes.

Schanno now hopes to join three other first-time commissioners who have secured a seat on the commissioners after having won their primary races: Roxie Dennis in District 2, Steve Green in District 4, and Lou Taylor in District 6. None have opposition in the November general election.

See SCHANNO Page 10

Council addresses gatherings, praises staff

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 10, 2026) While acknowledging more work is needed in addressing large gatherings throughout town, Ocean City officials say their departments and personnel were well prepared heading into the holiday weekend.

At the conclusion of Monday’s City Council meeting, City Manager Terry McGean and members of the council recognized city departments and allied agencies for keeping the resort safe and operational over the Fourth of July.

Despite concerns of a social media “takeover” event, and incidences of large gatherings both uptown and along the Boardwalk, they said staff’s preparations resulted in a better Independence Day than what was experienced last year.

“This was a very different meeting last year, following the Fourth of July,”

Council President Matt James said. “We’re not perfect, and we had some issues … but this was the best weekend in Ocean City, at least for the last five, six, seven years.”

In his report to the council Monday, McGean thanked staff for working to create what he called “a perfect Fourth of July experience.” Within the public works department, for example, he said crews spent the hours following the fireworks display cleaning up litter along the Boardwalk.

“Public works performed their normal morning cleanup miracle,” he said.

“It was made really extra difficult Saturday night when we had a windstorm hit. To give you a sense of scale, we picked up three times the normal amount of trash that we do on a normal summer weekend.”

McGean also recognized the Ocean

City Beach Patrol for reuniting 57 lost individuals with friends and family and the Ocean City Fire Department for responding to 226 service calls and 11 brush fires.

He also praised the Ocean City Police Department (OCPD), which partnered with the Maryland State Police, Worcester County Sheriff’s Office, Maryland Natural Resources Police and the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services throughout the weekend.

He said preliminary statistics for the week of July 4 show a four-year low in service calls.

Those statistics, however, do not include data for the Monday and Tuesday following Independence Day, police said this week.

“Most importantly we did not have a single violent crime for the entire weekend,” McGean said. “I want to stress

that. Not one.”

During public comments, resident Michael Bell told the council of his granddaughter’s encounter with a large group of young adults along 120th Street last weekend. He said she was driving home from work when a “mob” began surrounding her car.

While acknowledging the public’s concerns about the uptown gatherings, Councilman Jake Mitecic applauded city personnel and OCPD officers for working together to keep the public safe.

“At one point, we had 230 uniformed officers in town for a changeover in shift,” he said. “That kind of presence sets the tone. It lets people know that Ocean City, while it is a great place to have fun, it is not a place to break the law, it is not a place to come and show your behind and act a fool. And I think the results speak for themselves.”

Mayor Rick Meehan said city officials will continue to address the unsanctioned gatherings. He also asked for parents’ help in curbing some of the unwanted behavior.

“The numbers continue to grow, and parents really need to know where your kids are, and maybe what they’re doing …,” he said. “Young adults, juveniles, they’re some of the most vulnerable members of our community, and we want to make sure they are safe, but we need your help. It’s really a team effort to address these types of issues.”

faces

Incumbent commissioners Caryn Abbott (District 1) and Eric Fiori (District 3) also both won their primaries to garner a second term. Commissioner Joe Mitrecic (District 7) ran unopposed for his fourth consecutive election.

The swearing-in for the new board will be Dec. 1 in Snow Hill, leaving the board of commissioners with four lame duck members — Diane Purnell, Ted Elder, Jim Bunting and Bertino — until then.

Bunting in District 6 (Bishopville/Ocean Pines) did not seek reelection to a fifth term in office.

The county’s unofficial voting percentage was tallied at 28% by the Maryland State Board of Elections. Statewide, that figure ended up being 23.3% after early voting, election day, mail-ins and provisional turnout.

This was not Schanno’s first foray into electoral politics. He’s twice been a candidate for the Maryland House of Delegates.

In 2010, he ran for the District 38B seat, losing to then-Pocomoke City Mayor Mike McDermott.

Then, after a 2012 redistricting, he ran for the District 38C seat, losing to then-Ocean City Councilman Wayne Hartman, who remains the incumbent.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

A chart from the week of July 4 shows arrests and calls for service, including those initiated by officers, were up from last year. However, police say there were no major crimes.

OC police, fire depts. report busy Fourth of July weekend

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 10, 2026) While not nearly as troublesome as last year, large gatherings of young adults brought some unruly behavior to Ocean City over the Fourth of July holiday, city officials reported earlier this week.

With a full complement of law enforcement officers on hand for an anticipated "takeover” event on 33rd Street, Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) Deputy Communications Manager Ashley Miller said the agency was successful in maintaining a high police presence throughout town last weekend and throughout the July 4 festivities.

And while no gathering ever materialized, she said OCPD and allied agencies did respond to situations involving large crowds of teens and young adults congregating near 120th Street and along the Boardwalk between North Division and 8th streets.

“As opposed to last year, we did not have major assaults, stabbings, or shootings,” she said in a statement Monday. “The majority of the incidents handled by officers were peace and good order, and quality-of-life issues. However, there were no widespread takeover events or singular large-scale incidents that significantly impacted operations.”

For Ocean City, a takeover event organized online brought hundreds of participants to town for last year’s

Independence Day celebrations. The weekend, in turn, was marred by a Boardwalk stampede, large gatherings on streets and beaches, and a reported shooting.

In the days that followed, city leaders condemned the behaviors associated with the unsanctioned events and vowed to strengthen the city’s planning and response. Those efforts, officials say, were on full display last weekend, when OCPD was joined by law enforcement personnel from the Maryland State Police, the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office, and the Maryland Natural Resource Police in handling incidents throughout town.

“That visibility was intentional and designed to support crowd management, traffic operations, and proactive policing efforts in locations experiencing increased activity and larger gatherings,” Miller said.

At 120th Street, for example, large groups were seen moving between nearby convenience stores and the beach both Friday and Saturday nights, Miller said.

In turn, police say several businesses elected to close temporarily and had relied on the department –through its Trespass Enforcement Authorization Program – to clear out parking lots.

Similar crowds were also witnessed on the Boardwalk, primarily following Saturday evening’s fireworks display. Miller said

Youth gatherings throughout city

groups of young adults and visitors remained in the area throughout the early morning hours, moving between the Boardwalk and Baltimore Avenue.

In one instance, a large crowd quickly dispersed from the area near North Division Street after police made an arrest following a fight. The department later took to social media to dispel rumors of a shooting, stating, “we can confirm there was no firearm-related incident.”

“Officers maintained a strong presence and actively monitored pedestrian movement and crowd activity to help maintain public safety and prevent issues from escalating,” Miller said this week.

Between July 3 and July 5, the OCPD recorded 88 arrests. Police said 88% of those arrestees were under the age of 30, with those under the age of 18 making up the largest arrest group.

On July 4 alone, preliminary data show the police department responded to 715 calls for service (up 21% from last year) and made 40 arrests (up from 27 last year).

The department also recorded 70 traffic stops, 12 collisions, four weapons arrests and three DUI arrests (“calls for service” include responses initiated by the police themselves).

“From an enforcement perspective, the majority of police activity centered around quality-of-life and public safety issues,” Miller said. “The most common violations involved disorderly conduct, alcohol-related offenses, public disturbances, fighting-related incidents, and trespassing.

“Alcohol appeared to be a contributing factor in many of the incidents officers addressed, including open container violations, intoxication-related disturbances, and impaired driving offenses.”

Ocean City Fire Department reports busy weekend

Overall, department officials say the holiday weekend was busy. EMS crews responded to 226 calls for service, including 27 unconscious persons, 12 crashes, six water rescues, 11 brush fires, seven trash fires and 19 heat-related emergencies.

“Knowing the extreme heat was going to be one of our biggest challenges, we took a proactive approach before the holiday even began,” Ocean City Fire Department Community and Department Engagement Officer Ryan Whittington said. “Working alongside Ocean City Emergency Management and Recreation and Parks, the town opened a cooling center on Friday and Saturday to provide relief for anyone needing a break from the heat.”

In another weather-related event, Whittington said OCFD Fireboat 2 was returning to the dock from an assignment at Northside Park Saturday

night when it encountered extreme high winds from a nearby storm cell.

The resulting heavy swells swamped the boat, he said, and surrounding vessels from OCFD and the Maryland Natural Resources Police were called to respond.

“The vessel and crew on board were safe,” he said.

Whittington said the fire marshal’s office and OCPD also handled roughly 137 fireworks-related calls for service.

None of those injuries were associated with the town’s celebrations, he added.

“While the town was extremely busy, including large crowds in the north end of town—our public safety partners worked together seamlessly to keep everyone safe,” Whittington said. “From firefighters, EMTs to police officers, emergency management, public works, beach patrol, dispatchers and our Fire Marshal's Office, this was truly a team effort. We're thankful that, despite the heat and the crowds, everyone went home safely and enjoyed an incredible Fourth of July weekend."

Officials chime in on holiday crowds

Council President Matt James, who joined the Ocean City Fire Department for a ride along last Friday, applauded the “extensive preparation and strong cooperation” among public safety personnel, calling the July 4 holiday “one of the best weekends Ocean City has seen in years.”

However, he also acknowledged the large number of young adults gathering both uptown and along the Boardwalk.

“We ended the night on the Boardwalk, where hundreds of families were still out enjoying the evening,” he said. “However, after midnight, there were many more young adults gathering along the Boardwalk, but I did not observe any major issues. Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves. It was another great weekend in Ocean City, and I can't thank the town's employees and allied agencies enough! From public safety to public works, and everyone in between!”

Mayor Rick Meehan, in a Facebook post Monday, also acknowledged some of the gatherings witnessed throughout town last weekend.

“While the overwhelming majority of our visitors came to enjoy the holiday responsibly, there were periods throughout the weekend when large gatherings of young adults required additional attention from public safety personnel,” he wrote.

“Our law enforcement officers responded professionally and proactively, working alongside our allied agencies to maintain order and protect the safety of our residents and visitors.

Charter change targets residency

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 10, 2026) Ocean City officials this week approved a charter change they believe will clarify residency requirements for people seeking elected positions in municipal government.

Following a public hearing Monday, the City Council voted unanimously to add a legislative intent statement to the city charter. The language, officials say, clarifies the city’s expectation that candidates must maintain their primary residence in town.

“This adds language relating to the intent of the charter as it relates to domicile,” City Solicitor Heather Stansbury explained.

During a special session in Febru-

ary, when the Ocean City Council had to determine if former Councilman Tony DeLuca had maintained his domicile in town, members expressed their frustrations over what they believed to be a lack of clarity involving residency.

While agreeing that DeLuca had met the letter of the law, and therefore should maintain his council seat, some argued he did not meet the intent of the charter – that only those who live in Ocean City year-round should be able to serve on the council.

With that said, the council voted to bring the issue to a future work session, which was held in May. And from those discussions, officials agreed to explore several charter revisions.

Officials address July 4 issues

Continued from Page 13

“We understand the concerns these incidents create, and we want our residents, visitors, and property owners to know that we take them seriously. We continue to work closely with the Ocean City Police Department and our public safety partners to address these issues and

strengthen our response.

“We offer our sincere apologies to anyone whose experience was impacted by the disruptive behavior of a small number of individuals, and we want to assure you that we remain committed to identifying solutions and take the steps necessary to address these challenges.”

However, after noting the challenges of implementing some of those changes in time for the fall election, city officials last month opted to scrap the amendments.

Instead, they voted to make just one charter change – adding language stating a candidate does not meet domicile requirements “when the person’s actual pattern of living demonstrates that another location constitutes his or her principal place of residence for substantial portions of the year.”

The amendment adds, “mere technical compliance with the domiciliary requirements, without actual residency within the Town, is inconsistent with the purpose” of the charter.

During a public hearing Monday, resident John Adkins, a candidate in the spring special election, applauded the council for clarifying the residency requirements. However, resident Doug Smith, husband of former council candidate Leslie Smith, argued that some of the charter changes made in the last year – including increasing the residency requirement from four months to two years, and prohibiting candidates from holding a rental license at their primary residence in the two years

See OC Page 18

County jail stops using Snow Hill Pharmacy

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(July 10, 2026) Snow Hill residents are rallying around the town’s only pharmacy after learning the Worcester County Jail has stopped using the longtime local business to provide medication for inmates.

Snow Hill Pharmacy owner Jeffrey Sherr said he feels stung that the county did not inform him the arrangement was ending, and that he only found out secondhand from a jail employee. He said his Market Street business has been the jail’s primary medication provider since opening its doors in 1999.

“Twenty-seven years. Nobody said anything. Nothing. It hurt us,” he said at a Snow Hill council work session Tuesday night.

After the pharmacy announced it

would cut hours beginning Aug. 1, closing Wednesdays and Saturdays, residents began raising concerns online. Pharmacy employees have been circulating a petition to garner support, with about 150 signatures so far.

Sherr also said the business was in the red last year despite regularly billing the county more than $120,000 annually for jail medications.

“Why in the heck would anybody in their right mind who’s losing $13,000 on a business want to keep it open?” he said at the meeting, extending a pointed finger around the room. “For you all. That’s the reason behind it.”

Worcester County last fall dropped longtime jail healthcare provider Wellpath and its $1.9 million contract. The county commissioners entered into a renewable 12-month contract with

CFG Health that is about $100,000 cheaper. It took effect Dec. 1.

The county said CFG’s deal also includes services that were pass-through costs under Wellpath, including prescriptions, hospitalizations, medical supplies, and some specialist care, reducing the need to drive inmates offsite for medical and dental appointments.

The local anxiety was enough for Snow Hill’s mayor and council to raise the issue at a work session Tuesday night, where elected officials and residents questioned how the change happened and whether anything could still be done.

At that meeting, Worcester County Administrator Weston Young told town officials he was not aware the local pharmacy relationship was in jeopardy until Sherr reached out. He said he then briefed the commissioners and tried to preserve the arrangement.

After hours – on nights, weekends, or holidays – the jail sometimes had to take inmates to a hospital for certain medication. But inmate transports require two correctional officers, adding to liability and cost, according to Young.

Warden Tim Mulligan said the jail has an obligation to provide immediate medical care when inmates have urgent medication needs, including risks such as seizures or diabetic shock. He said 79 of 133 inmates were prescribed medication as of April 17.

Sherr questioned why the pharmacy was not informed earlier that a lack of around-the-clock service had become a concern, after county officials said the jail had long accepted that arrangement as the status quo.

“Nobody told us that there was a problem with the 24-7 scenario,” he said.

Young added that CFG wanted to pay less than Snow Hill Pharmacy had historically received.

“We attempted to fix it. There were good-faith efforts by the county to try to make this work,” Young said.

Historically, the jail and the pharmacy operated under a handshake agreement first struck under former Warden Ira “Buck” Shockley – one that Young was quick to note is an outlier among correctional facilities.

“This is not a normal arrangement,” he said.

According to Young, CFG Health was open to using Snow Hill Pharmacy but wanted a formal contract in place. Both sides failed to come to terms after a brief negotiation. Without a written agreement, CFG stopped paying the pharmacy. Months passed and invoices got backed up.

By May 20, the pharmacy said it would no longer deliver medicine unless orders were paid cash-on-delivery. CFG immediately switched to Correct Rx, a national pharmacy company that CFG uses at other facilities it manages. Young said he’s worked to ensure the pharmacy is made whole on back payments.

Hours of operation became another sticking point. The jail runs 24 hours a day, but the pharmacy does not.

But Zack Sherr, the pharmacy vice president and Jeff’s son, said the pharmacy offered the jail discounted pricing. He argued rising costs were driven partly by inmates being prescribed expensive name-brand specialty medications instead of generics.

Inside the pharmacy Tuesday, customer service representative Bonny Malin said customers have been coming in just to sign the petition. It’s the only pharmacy for miles, with the closest alternatives in Pocomoke City, Berlin, or Salisbury. Some longtime customers come from as far as Delaware and Virginia.

“They prefer to come here because their pharmacist knows them and their history,” Malin said.

Town Manager Rick Pollitt said county officials underestimated the value of keeping a pharmacy in Snow Hill and should have acted faster to bring the county, CFG Health, and the pharmacy together.

“Get out there, get in a room, shut the door, and don’t come out until you have an agreement,” he said. “That’s the kind of leadership I think the community’s looking for.”

County pursues data center pause

sources in Worcester County to operate any of these facilities,” said Fiori (District 3, West Ocean City). “Not allowing them in any district seems like the obvious answer.”

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(July 10, 2026) Worcester County officials are planning to pursue a oneyear moratorium on data centers and cable landing stations, even as one such facility is already moving through county review.

In a 6-0 decision Tuesday, the county commissioners approved Commissioner Eric Fiori’s motion for the yearlong pause. It would not take effect until the commissioners approve it by resolution, which Fiori said will be brought up for a vote at the board’s July 21 meeting.

“We physically don’t have the re-

Fiori said the pause would give the four new commissioners taking office in December about six months to study the issue before deciding what comes next.

Data centers can generate signifi-

cant air pollution, run generators at 100 decibels, and could account for 90% of new power demand by 2030, according to Bob Mitchell, the county’s head of environmental programs.

He also said they have been known to use massive amounts of water and wastewater at a time when the county is struggling to keep up with waste-

preceding the election – went too far.

“There's a council member who is not here right now because the law worked …,” he said, referring to DeLuca’s resignation. “So, the laws that have been in place, long before we made the four months to two years, and threw other things in there, they worked. The ability for registered voters to come up here and file a complaint and say that I challenge this councilman’s domicile or residency or his ability to sit on the council, that worked. So, some of these changes, I think, are getting a little bit unreasonable.”

In the fall of 2024, weeks before the municipal election, the Ocean City Council voted to disqualify Leslie Smith as a candidate, with a majority arguing she did not meet the city’s domicile requirements. While Smith declared her Ocean City property – which she rented out on Airbnb during the summer months –to be her main residence, many argued she resided full time at her property in Bishopville.

That, in turn, kicked off a larger discussion about residency, as well as the need for charter amendments, which were approved last summer. During Monday’s public hearing, Leslie Smith took issue with charter revisions that prevented her from running.

“I file my taxes here, I vote here, my license says Ocean City, my mail is in Ocean City,” she said. “Just because I rent my property, you guys are saying I don't have the right to sit up here and make this town a better place, which I know, and everybody else that's on my side will verify that I love Ocean City, and I want to make it a better place.”

Following this week’s public hearing, Councilwoman Carol Proctor asked about the newly enacted twoyear residency requirement, which she argued was “too stringent.” While she expressed interest in changing that requirement once more, Council President Matt James argued it was not the topic being addressed in Monday’s resolution.

“If the council decided to entertain additional changes, that’s just not before you tonight, and we’d have to follow a charter amendment process for any further changes,” Stansbury added. “It’s actually set by state law of how a charter is amended.”

The motion to approve the resolution

in a 7-0 vote.

Landing station under review

Continued from Page 18

water demand.

“We have growth, or we have data centers,” he told the commissioners.

For now, county code is silent on data centers or cable landing stations.

In the meantime, one proposed cable landing station remains under county review.

Virginia Beach-based developer Globalinx wants to build a cable landing station on a parcel outside West Ocean City. The project is scheduled for a hearing by the county’s Board of Zoning Appeals on Aug. 19.

would qualify as a public utility, which would make it a permitted use. In the meantime, the county’s planning office will lean heavily on how other Maryland counties already have approached the issue with policies and legislation, Keener said.

Anne Arundel, Montgomery, Calvert, and Prince George’s counties all have taken action on the issue. Frederick County just enacted a sixmonth freeze on new data center applications through the end of this year.

Meant to bring undersea telecom lines ashore, the proposed 25,000square-foot facility is generating pushback from residents along the Route 611 corridor. It’s also close to a historic African American cemetery, whose descendants also oppose the project.

‘I’m not suggesting I want any of these there at all – I don’t –but it will be tested. We can write something that would probably inhibit it even being considered in Worcester County.’

Fiori has been one of the project’s most vocal opponents. The proposed facility would be in his district. He hosted a town hall meeting in May where he told attending Globalinx officials he’d fight them “tooth and nail.”

Commissioner

Jim Bunting

Meanwhile, Maryland is also preparing a comprehensive analytical report on data centers that’s due to be submitted to the governor and legislature by Sept. 1. Earlier in the meeting, commissioners had rejected Fiori’s motion to enact a total ban on data centers in all zoning districts. A full stop on data centers now could set up the county for future legal battles, noted Commissioner Joe Mitrecic (District 7, Ocean City).

Such facilities eventually could be allowed by special exception, a zoning process that would require public hearings, according to Jennifer Keener, the county’s planning director.

She also said commissioners could consider policies addressing design aesthetics, noise dampening, and impacts to air and water quality.

The project has already hit one hurdle: county planning officials last month rejected the developer’s argument that the cable landing station

Commissioner Jim Bunting (District 6, Bishopville) said some areas of the county that are zoned heavy industrial could potentially accommodate data centers. He mentioned a defunct chicken processing plant in Showell as one possible site among 10 areas zoned for industrial use.

He said he favors enacting strict regulations instead of imposing a moratorium or outright ban.

“I’m not suggesting I want any of these there at all – I don’t – but it will be tested,” Bunting said. “We can write something that would probably inhibit it even being considered in Worcester County.”

Man charged in home barricade

Snow Hill resident arrested after reportedly restraining, threatening to

harm woman

(July 9, 2026) A Worcester County man was arrested and charged early Monday morning after he barricaded himself inside a house following an alleged assault.

Robert Keith Anderson, 49, of

Snow Hill is charged with first- and second- degree assault, false imprisonment and other related charges. He is being held without bond at the Worcester County Detention Center.

Shortly after 10:45 p.m. on July 5, Maryland State Police from the Berlin Barrack were dispatched to a home in the 4000-block of W. Market Street in Snow Hill, for an alleged dispute between Anderson and a

One flown to trauma center after Jet Ski accident in OC

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 10, 2026) One teen was airlifted to a Baltimore hospital this week following a Jet Ski accident in Ocean City.

On Tuesday, at approximately 1:40 p.m., first responders were called to the Assawoman Bay near 120th Street for a reported Jet Ski accident that involved multiple Jet Skis and victims.

woman.

The woman, who is not being identified at this time, told police she had been physically restrained, but was able to break free from the home to contact 9-1-1 to report the incident.

Police were told that Anderson had brandished a firearm inside the home. He reportedly threatened to harm the woman who was inside the residence at the time.

Motorcycle group to honor Sept. 11 with parade in OC

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 10, 2026) The Ocean City Council this week granted a motorcycle club’s request to hold a Boardwalk ride on Sept. 11.

As part of Monday’s consent agenda, members of the council voted unanimously to grant a private event request from the Red Knights Motorcycle Club to host a 911 Parade of Brothers Boardwalk Ride from 27th to North Division streets.

“Engine 4’s crew was offered the use of a nearby resident’s vessel, allowing firefighters to quickly get underway and reach the patients,” he said in a statement this week. “We are grateful for the quick-thinking neighbor who helped our crews make rapid access to those in need.”

The response also included Maryland Natural Resources Police and the United States Coast Guard.

While Ocean City paramedics were able to treat two victims at the scene, one – reportedly under the age of 18 – was transported by Maryland State Police Aviation Command to R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore, according to Ocean City Fire Department Community and Department Engagement Officer Ryan Whittington.

State Police arrived on the scene and made several attempts to contact Anderson, all of which he refused. Knowing he was armed and due to the threats reportedly made, troopers established a perimeter around the home and called for the Maryland State Police Special Tactical Assault Team Element, or STATE Team, to respond.

Troopers attempted to convince Anderson for several hours to exit the residence. They called his cell phone repeatedly. After several unsuccessful attempts, police obtained an arrest warrant through the Worcester County District Court, which was subsequently served by members of the Maryland State Police STATE Team.

Anderson was taken into custody without further incident. No shots were fired from the residence by Anderson or law enforcement personnel during the 11-hour incident.

Troopers from the Berlin Barrack, the STATE Team and the Criminal Enforcement Division responded to the scene. Officers from the Snow Hill Police Department along with sheriff deputies from the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office also responded to the scene to provide assistance.

The investigation is continuing.

The event will take place in conjunction with a service at the firefighter’s memorial that afternoon, beginning at noon.

According to the event application, the club plans to hold a Boardwalk motorcycle parade, which will start from 27th Street at approximately 11:30 a.m. and end at North Division Street. From there, participants will take part in a service commemorating the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks before being escorted out of town by police.

As part of their request, club members have asked to use the Boardwalk for registration, motorcycle parking and ingress/egress.

They have also asked for police assistance and escorts and the use of the city’s public address system and podium, among other things.

In return, the club will pay the city $150 in private event fees, as well as $507 in asset and support fees.

The event will take place the same weekend as the OC Rock and Ride motorcycle rally, which will be held Sept. 9-13.

Tequila and gun on boards

After police saw him drinking from a tequila bottle on the Boardwalk, a Baltimore man was questioned by police officers who found him carrying a loaded gun.

On July 5, around 12:46 a.m., Ocean City police saw Kamar Brock, 22, and another individual walking the Boardwalk drinking out of a large, glass bottle of Lunazul brand tequila. The men were stopped for drinking in a public place. Brock was found with a loaded Polymer 80, P80, 9 mm handgun without a serial number. The handgun had a round in the chamber and a loaded magazine.

In addition to the drinking in public and open container violation, Brock is charged with multiple weapons offenses – handgun on person, loaded handgun on person and possession of a firearm without a serial number.

Females fighting, charges

Three teenagers were each charged last weekend with affray and disorderly conduct after police broke up a brawl between them.

On July 5, at 3:24 a.m., Ocean City police saw a large group in the area of 8th Street and the Boardwalk. Police determined the group involved people yelling and screaming at each other with several individuals record-

ing people fighting with their phones.

An officer broke up the converged group to find three females -- Ca’rae Tyner, 19, of Baltimore. Mykira Moore, 19, of Princess Anne, and Kobe Woods, 18, of Salisbury, -- fighting each other. The statement of charges read, “I attempted to separate the females but was unsuccessful. I observed the females to be actively punching, kicking and pulling each other’s hair.”

Police were eventually able to break up the fight but Tyner continued to resisted arrest. Moore, Tyner and Woods were each charged with two counts of affray and disorderly conduct. Tyner’s refusal to comply with police orders on the scene resulted in an additional resist/interfere with arrest charge.

Vape blown at cop’s horse

A teenager’s exhale of vape into a mounted horse’s face led to assault and reckless endangerment charges

On July 5, at 2:42 a.m., four police officers were riding their mounts Benson, Buck, Drake and Moose on the Boardwalk at 9th Street through a group when a man, later confirmed as Jasir Caul-Cook, 18, of Middletown, Del., took an inhale from his vape smoking device and blew it at Moose’s face and into his ear.

The exhale action caused Moose

to jump putting the officer nearly out of the saddle and frightening a group of females nearby.

Cook tried to leave the scene before reconsidering when he saw Maryland State Police troopers nearby.

In total, Caul-Cook was charged with second-degree assault, interference with a police animal and two counts of reckless endangerment.

Man assaulted by group

A Delaware man was hit with a felony assault charge for his involvement last month in attacking a man in downtown Ocean City.

On June 12, shortly before midnight, Ocean City police were on uniformed patrol on Wicomico Street when screaming was heard from a nearby parking garage.

Bystanders flagged down the officer who reported a man was uncon-

scious after being assaulted by a group of people.

The victim was revived and told people he had been “jumped” by a group of 25 people, according to the statement of probable cause. The victim said his cell phone was stolen during the assault.

A witness provided video footage to police confirming the man was punched, kicked and struck in the head multiple times by several individuals.

City Watch cameras showed a man destroyed the cell phone in question before throwing it away.

The same man, later identified as Jordyn Gomez, 18, of Middletown, Del., was also seen kicking the victim in the head six times while he was on the ground.

Gomez was not apprehended until July 5 when he was seen speaking

GOOD LUCK TUNA ANGLERS

with officers on N. Division Street and Boardwalk who were investigating an assault.

Gomez was charged with first-degree assault, theft $100 to under $1,500 and malicious destruction of property over $1,000.

Woman assaults officer

A Pennsylvania woman was charged with assault after she struck police officers while refusing to obey orders.

On June 20, at 8 p.m., an Ocean City police bike patrol officer was dispatched to a hotel room for a domestic disturbance on 14th Street. A woman, Laura Pfaffle, 55, of Stroudsburg, Pa., was clearly intoxicated and calling the responding officers expletives. Pfaffle’s husband needed medical attention for reasons not reported

Smith Island Cruises

in the statement of charges, but what was clear was Pfaffle’s level of agitation at her husband and the responding paramedics and police officers.

As the ambulance pulled away to take her husband to the hospital, Pfaffle tried to enter it while it was moving.

A responding officer was struck twice in the face by Pfaffle while getting her away from the ambulance.

Throughout the interactions, Pfaffle continued to yell expletives and insults at the responding police officers while exhibiting indications of extreme intoxication. Once at police headquarters, Pfaffle kicked a custody officer while being forced into a retaining cell.

Pfaffle has been charged with two counts of second-degree assault, disorderly conduct, intoxicated endangerment, failure to obey a lawful order and obstruction of firefighters.

Child abuse and assault

A Baltimore man was charged after witnesses saw him slap a child in the face on the Boardwalk. The incident was confirmed by police through the City Watch surveillance system.

On July 2, at 1 p.m., around 20th Street and the Boardwalk, Ocean City public safety aides were told by witnesses they saw Tyler Norman, 34, of Baltimore, strike his juvenile son in the face. Police were able to confirm the assault by watching City Watch video, which clearly showed Norman grab the juvenile with his right hand and strike in the face with his left hand.

Norman was then seen holding the juvenile up off the ground by two feet with his hands around his neck. A phone recording of the incident provided to police confirmed the assault but showed Norman striking his son three times in the face with his left hand.

During questioning, Norman admitted to hitting his son three or four times in the face.

Norman faces second-degree assault and two counts of second-degree child abuse.

Cocaine, driving impaired

A Delaware man has been charged with cocaine possession after he was found driving with an open container of booze.

On June 30, around 2 in the morning, a speeding 2022 Dodge Charger was seen on Coastal Highway at 62nd Street without its headlights on. A traffic stop was initiated and the driver, Christopher HernandezOlmedo, 22, of Frankford, Del., showed indications of impairment, according to the statement of probable cause, that included slurred speech and odors of alcohol.

When Hernandez-Olmedo exited the vehicle to take part in field sobriety tests, an open and cold can of Coors Light was seen in the driver’s door cup holder. Hernandez-Olmedo did not complete the tests in a satisfactory manner.

A search of Hernandez-Olmedo’s wallet located cocaine inside a strategically folded $1 bill.

Hernandez-Olmedo was arrested and a chemical breath test recorded a reading more than twice the legal limit to drive a vehicle.

Hernandez-Olmedo was charged with possession of a controlled dangerous substance-not cannabis, an open container of alcohol, driving a vehicle while impaired by alcohol and other offenses.

Police investigating fatal accident

(July 10, 2026) The Maryland State Police, in conjunction with the Pocomoke City Police Department, are investigating a fatal two-vehicle crash that occurred June 30 in Worcester County.

The deceased is identified as David Loveland, Jr., 53, of Marion Station, Maryland. He was the driver and sole occupant of a Jeep Grand Cherokee involved in the crash. The driver and passenger of a Toyota Venza, a 37year-old female and 34-year-old

male, were transported by ambulance to a local hospital for treatment of their injuries.

Shortly after 3 p.m. yesterday, troopers from the Maryland State Police Berlin Barrack responded to southbound Route 13 at the intersection of Holland Road for a report of a two-vehicle crash. The preliminary investigation indicates that the Jeep, operated by Loveland, was traveling east on Holland Road and attempting to cross the intersection, when for

unknown reasons, was struck by the Toyota.

At the request of the Pocomoke City Police Department, Maryland State Police provided crash investigators. Lanes were closed for more than three hours for the crash investigation. Personnel from the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration assisted with the closure.

The crash investigation remains active and ongoing.

RESIDENT CELEBRATED

Longtime Royal Hawaiian Condominium property owner Avery Taylor was recognized July 2 by Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan for his outstanding dedication to beautifying the community. During a ceremony held at the 142nd Street beach entrance, Meehan presented Taylor with an official proclamation honoring his years of volunteer efforts to enhance the entrance to the beach at 142nd Street, as well as several other areas throughout the Hawaiian Village community. Approximately three dozen residents, neighbors, and community members attended the ceremony.

BUNK MANN RECOGNIZED

The Ocean City Mayor and Council recognized local historian and author Bunk Mann this week for devoting countless hours to researching, documenting, preserving and sharing the

of

City. In addition to a proclamation, Mayor Rick Meehan presented Mann with a “Key to the City” in honor of his contributions. Mann is pictured on Monday night with his family and members of the Mayor and Council.

Gull Creek Senior Living celebrates July 4 with parade

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(July 9, 2026) Residents at Gull Creek Senior Living celebrated America’s 250th birthday this week by decorating their walkers, wheelchairs, and canes in red, white, and blue for a patriotic parade through the center’s garden.

On Tuesday, July 7, residents of the Berlin assisted living facility proceeded through Gull Creek’s courtyard area to the backdrop of patriotic music as family members, friends, and fellow seniors watched. Spectators waved their own American flags in recognition of the country’s milestone anniversary.

The event was held on July 7, sometimes written as 7/7/26, as a reminder of 1776, the year America’s original 13 colonies officially adopted the Declaration of Independence, stating their intent to sever ties with Great Britain in their bid for freedom.

“We chose 7/7 for 1776,” said Jamie Triplett, Gull Creek’s resident service coordinator. “It’s just a quirky tagline.”

The center observed Independence Day all week with a lineup of festivities. According to Triplett, the Gull Creek seniors celebrated with a Fourth of July social on Saturday. Additionally, Tuesday’s parade concluded with a patriotic lunch and treats, including red, white, and blue snow cones and star-spangled banner cookies.

“We’re patriotic all day,” Triplett said.

Seniors celebrate America 250

Continued from Page 29

sisted living residents joined the procession, while several were spectators.

Gull Creek’s marketing director, Megan Richmond, noted that they were delighted by the number of tenants who expressed interest in participating in the parade.

“The number of residents who

have come to the activity director saying I want to get my cane decorated, I want to get myself decorated… they’re excited,” she said.

Tuesday’s event was the first time Gull Creek organized a Fourth of July parade.

“For them, it brings back a lot of history and memories,” the resident service coordinator said of the facility’s residents. “...It just brings back a lot of memories, and the history they remember. It’s 250 years. Half of them have been here for eight or nine decades. We have two who are over 100, so they’ve been here for a century.”

One participant dressed up her walker as ice cream, a nostalgic throwback to her childhood, when, for her, Fourth of July parades went hand in hand with enjoying a frozen dessert in the summer heat.

Berlin’s HDC says yes to directional sign for museum

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(July 10, 2026) The Berlin Historic District Commission unanimously approved a decorative directional sign for the downtown Ghost Museum last week after commissioners debated whether the design could influence future requests in the historic district.

At the HDC’s meeting on July 1, Ghost Museum owner Alyssa Maloof sought approval for a pointing hand sign directing visitors upstairs to her business at 11 Pitt St. The marking will be made of a fiberglass composite.

“I’m trying to get people upstairs,” said Maloof, who also owns the downtown Mermaid Museum.

Commissioner Mary Moore said she found the pointing hand creative.

“I think it’s clever,” she noted.

Norman Bunting, the commission’s chair, agreed the sign would attract attention, while staff confirmed it complied with applicable historic district requirements. Maloof said the lightweight, dimensional sign would not be illuminated.

While the historic commission supported the proposal, Moore wondered if approving the decorative element could establish a precedent for future applications.

She said she did not want to see cartoon figures or brightly colored ornamental displays become commonplace throughout the town’s historic district.

“I don’t want to set a precedent,” Moore said. “…Like I don’t want to see every wall in Berlin have a mural on it… I don’t want to start seeing little cartoon people in the future…if you’re selling dog supplies, all of a sudden, you have dogs stuck on the building. I don’t want [Berlin] to have that Disney look. I want to keep this clean, historic look. We’ve had problems in the past where we did something that started a precedent.”

Planning Director Ryan Hardesty responded that each Historic District Commission application is considered individually.

Moore noted that future HDC submissions could argue the body had approved similar features before. However, Hardesty maintained that while those situations have occurred and are likely to happen again, most commission decisions rely on the members’ judgement rather than specific town code standards.

Therefore, the board can make approvals as they see fit without being bound to any predetermined rules.

“A lot of the things that you guys vote on are not codified,” Hardesty said. “So, it really is your opinion, what you like… nothing in the code says you can’t have cartoon characters [in the historic district].”

Following the discussion, the commission voted unanimously to approve the directional hand sign as presented.

Drummond named new warden

(July 10, 2026) Shytina Drummond, who has been serving as the assistant warden of the Worcester County Jail in Snow Hill, has been promoted to warden, the Worcester County Commissioners announced this week.

She will succeed Warden Tim Mulligan, who will be retiring in November.

"Drummond has demonstrated exceptional leadership, professionalism, and dedication throughout her career," Commissioner President Ted Elder said. "We are confident the jail, its employees, and the citizens will be well served under her leadership."

Drummond joined the jail staff as assistant warden in October 2020 after serving 15 years at the Eastern Correctional Institution in Princess Anne, where she advanced through the ranks from correctional officer to major.

With more than 21 years of service in corrections, Drummond brings a wealth of experience, operational knowledge and a proven track record of leadership to this vital position, county officials said.

In addition, Drummond has earned numerous professional certifications and leadership appointments. She currently serves on the Local Government Justice Reinvestment Commission for

the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy and in several leadership roles with the Maryland Correctional Administrators Association.

During her tenure, Drummond received a Preservation of Life Award and Circle Merit Award. Additionally, earlier this year, she received the MCAA President's Award in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the corrections profession. She also assists with academy instruction for the correctional academy at Wor-Wic Community College.

"I am honored to take on the role of warden, and I sincerely appreciate the confidence the commissioners have placed in me," Drummond said. "I am privileged to serve alongside the dedicated staff of the Worcester County Jail and will continue supporting them as they serve our community with the utmost integrity. Together, we will continue with our mission of providing a safe, secure and professional correctional facility, recognizing the importance of both public safety and the potential for positive change.”

Drummond earned a bachelor of science degree in criminal justice from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. She is currently pursuing a master of science degree in administration of justice with a concentration in leadership and administration at Wilmington University in Delaware.

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Realtors advocate for more housing at meeting in D.C.

(July 10, 2026) Seven members of the Coastal Association traveled to Washington, D.C., for the 2026 REALTORS® Legislative Meetings, where they met with Maryland members of Congress and Congressional staff to advocate for policies that increase housing supply, build stronger communities, and support self-employed professionals.

During meetings on Capitol Hill, members and staff of the Coastal Association met with Maryland members of Congress and the Congressional staff and urged support for:

The More Homes on the Market Act, which would update the tax exclusion on the sale of a primary residence and incentivize more long-term owners to sell their homes. Updating America’s tax law is a key pathway to more supply.

The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, to increase housing production, improve affordability, and reduce barriers to development.

The Revitalizing Downtowns and Main Streets Act, to encourage the conversion of underutilized commercial properties into housing and mixed-use developments.

Federal investments in fair housing, housing counseling and homebuyer education programs that expand housing opportunities.

The Association Health Plans Act, which would expand access to affordable, high-quality health insurance for REALTORS® and other independent contractors.

Affordable workplace housing, housing and flood insurance costs and obtainability on the lower shore.

“America has a shortage of more than 4 million homes, and the solution starts with smart policy,” said Coastal Association CEO, Bernie Flax. “The meetings on Capitol Hill gave President Terrence McGowan a chance to bring that message directly to lawmakers and make the case for concrete legislation that will get inventory moving and open the door for more Americans to buy a home.”

NAR Maryland REALTORS® and Coastal Association of REALTORS are championing a suite of federal, state and local policies designed to boost housing supply, reduce development barriers and make homeownership more attainable. From converting vacant commercial buildings into housing to updating tax laws keeping homes off the market, these efforts aim to ease the affordability crisis affecting communities nationwide.

“Our local REALTORS® are on the front lines of the housing market every day, and we see firsthand how the shortage affects families and communities,” added Flax. “The lawmakers we met with were receptive to our ideas and understand that investing in housing supply and supporting the professionals who help people buy and sell homes is good for the economy and good for America.”

Dr. Ashwin has earned the prestigious Master of the Academy of General Dentistry (MAGD) designation—an honor achieved by fewer than 2% of general dentists in the United States and Canada. This distinction recognizes an exceptional commitment to advanced continuing education, clinical excellence, and providing the highest quality patient care. (AGD)

For our patients, this means confidence in a dentist who is dedicated to staying at the forefront of modern dentistry through extensive hands-on training and lifelong learning.

Safety reminders issued for beach hole digging dangers

By Kristin Joson Contributing Writer

(July 10, 2026) Each summer, one of the most common questions we hear from beachgoers is: “Are there sharks in the water?” While sharks do spark curiosity, they are not the greatest danger beach visitors face. In fact, rip currents, lightning strikes, and sand hole collapses have all caused more deaths than shark encounters. Among these hazards, the dangers of sand hole collapses remain the least understood and potentially the deadliest. Sand hole collapses are a hidden risk that kill or injure several children each year in the United States. Most people don’t realize how quickly and silently a hole can cave in. What starts as innocent digging, often just a fun beach activity for children, can turn tragic in seconds. One such tragedy occurred after 7 p.m. when a 12-year-old was buried and the OC Fire Department was called to locate his body. This had such an impact on the responding firefighters that one of the past chiefs had the news article on his wall as a reminder. And just this past January two 14-year-old boys died after a tunnel

they dug in “sugar sand” at Sportsman Park in Inverness, Florida, suddenly collapsed. The teens were buried 4 to 5 feet underground. Rescuers pulled them from the sand, but both tragically passed away.

Here in Ocean City, the Beach Patrol enforces a local ordinance that limits the depth of sand holes to no deeper than the knee height of the smallest person in the group. That means if a parent is digging a hole for a child, the hole must be shallower than that child’s knees, not the adult’s. This regulation is in place for everyone’s safety.

Although our last near fatal sand collapse was in a shallow tunnel and the boy’s legs were exposed, it still took a

dozen people and several long minutes to dig him out. Because this was on a heavily populated area of the beach surrounded by umbrellas the SRT was unable to see what was happening. Luckily another child noticed it and alerted her father who yelled for the SRT, who worked with other SRTs who responded to extricate the buried boy. Once out of his almost grave, they initiated CPR and I am happy to report that after a short hospital stay, he is perfectly fine. But not all cases in OC have ended with a happy ending.

Tunneling or digging into the sides of sand mounds is especially dangerous. Sand is both heavy and unstable. When

it collapses, it does so without warning and can quickly bury a person entirely.

The sand doesn’t just fall, it continuously refills the hole as rescuers try to dig someone out, making successful rescue efforts extremely difficult. Even when a victim’s location is known, it can take dozens of trained rescuers and specialized teamwork to attempt a recovery. Often, there just isn’t enough time.

Sadly, Ocean City is not immune. Remember that 12-year-old that died here years ago after a deep hole collapsed in the evening (7 p.m.) after our lifeguards had gone off duty. That’s why we ask: If you see someone digging a large hole, or an unsafe situation on the beach when

lifeguards are not present, call 911.

When we are on duty, Surf Rescue Technicians (SRTs) remain alert and proactive. Each one is trained in sand collapse rescue techniques and will not hesitate to intervene when they see deep holes being dug.

If a guard sees a hole deeper than knee height, they will ask you to stop digging. In some cases, they may immediately begin filling it in. You can help by leaving shovels and other digging tools at home, and by encouraging others to do the same.

One of the most frustrating moments for an SRT is when they try to explain the danger to parents who respond with:

“We’ve got it under control.” The reality is, you don’t. Sand collapses without warning, and even if you see it happen, you may not be able to dig fast enough to save someone especially a child. And holes don’t just pose a risk during the day. At night, they are a danger to our maintenance crews and nighttime patrols. That’s why we say: If you dig it, fill it.

We’re glad you’re here in Ocean City. We want you and your family to enjoy your time at the beach safely and return home safely. Stay smart, stay aware, and if you see something unsafe, speak up. Together, we can prevent a tragedy before it happens.

WEST OCEAN CITY PROFESSIONAL OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT

J-1 WORKERS WELCOMED

Ten Italian university students working this summer in Ocean City on J-1 visas were welcomed to the United States by the Ocean City Lodge of the Sons and Daughters of Italy with a typical American fried chicken and hot dog summer picnic dinner. They also received gift bags filled with snacks and useful every-day items and, to mark the U.S. 250th anniversary, a leatherbound copy of the Declaration of Independence and Constitution donated by

and

Who’s Where When

BLU CRABHOUSE / DISTRICT 24

410-289-3322

24th Street Bayside

Fri., July 10: Bryan Russo

Sat., July 11: Dickson Twins

Sun., July 12: Beach Bandits

BURLEY OAK BREWING COMPANY

443-513-4647

10016 Old Ocean City Blvd., Berlin

Fri., July 10: Late Dues

BUXY’S SALTY DOG & DRY DOCK 28

410-289-BUXY

28th Street Coastal Hwy.

Fri., July 10: Muskrat Lightning

Sat., July 11: Aaron Howell Duo

Sundays: Locals Night w/ DJ Deogee

Wednesdays: Karaoke w/ DJ Nick Hundley

Thurs., July 16: Johnny Cardo

CAPTAIN’S TABLE

410-289-7192

15th & Boardwalk

In The Courtyard Marriott Fridays & Saturdays: Phil Perdue

CARIBBEAN POOL BAR

410-289-6181

In The Plim Plaza Hotel

109 N. Atlantic Ave.

Fri., July 10: Mike & Eric & Permilla Project

Sat., July 11: Lime Green & Free State Country

Sun., July 12: Boogiemen & Jason Lee

Mon., July 13: Mary Jane & Dust N Bones Duo

Tues., July 14: Ben Davis & Johnny Cardo

Wed., July 15: AJ Jesson & True Country (Solo)

Thurs., July 16: Chris Diller & Rockoholics

COCONUTS BEACH BAR

410-289-6846

Oceanfront At

Castle In The Sand Hotel

37th & 38th Streets

Fri., July 10: Darin Engh & Beach Bandits

Sat., July 11: Kevin Poole & Joe Mama & The Everafter

Sun., July 12: Rick & Regina & Colossal Fossil Sauce

Mon., July 13: Sean Loomis & The Rogue Citizens

Tues., July 14: Shortcut Sunny & Union Road

Wed., July 15: Tony Mowen & Chris Diller

Thurs., July 16: Jack Bannon & The Dunehounds

COINS PUB

410-289-3100

28th Street Plaza

On Coastal Hwy.

Fri, July 10: Lennon LaRicci & The Leftovers

Sat., July 11: Identity Crisis

Sundays: DJ Wax

Tues., July 14: Sketchbook

CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE

302-988-5000

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

Fri., July 10: Lost N Found

Sun., July 12: Dawn Williams

Tues., July 14: C-Miller

Wed., July 15: Bilenki Duo

FAGER’S ISLAND

410-524-5500

60th St., In The Bay

Fri., July 10: DJ RobCee, 33 RPM & The Chucks

Sat., July 11: The Boh Daddies, DJ DNIAL & The Loop

Sun., July 12: Bonfire & DJ Wax

Best Beats On The Beach

MUSKRAT LIGHTNING

Buxy’s Salty Dog: Friday, July 10

BEACH BANDITS

Coconuts Beach Bar: Friday, July 10

IDENTITY CRISIS

Coins Pub: Saturday, July 11

BOOGIEMEN

Jolly Jellyfish: Friday, July 10

Caribbean Pool Bar: Sunday, July 12

The Wedge: Tuesday, July 14

BILENKI DUO

Crabcake Factory Bayside: Wednesday, July 15

AWAKEN

Purple Moose: Thursday, July 16

LOWER CASE BLUES

Fager’s Island: Wednesday, July 15

AARON HOWELL DUO

Buxy’s Salty Dog: Saturday, July 11

THE ROGUE CITIZENS

Pickles Pub: Saturday, July 11

Who’s Where When

Mon., July 13: Deck Party - DJ Wax, Great Train Robbery, Vertigo Red & DJ Stinson

Tues., July 14: Bryan Clark & Saltwater Sweat Line Dancing

Wed., July 15: DJ Hector & Lower Case Blues

Thursdays: DJ Groove & Risky Business

FISH TALES

410-289-0990

22nd Street & The Bay Fri., July 10: Caileen Sat., July 11: Joe Wood

Sun., July 12: Josh Pryor

Wednesdays: DJ Wax

HARBORSIDE

410-213-1846

South Harbor Rd., West End O.C.

Fridays: DJ Billy T Sat., July 11: The Outliers & DJ Bigler

Sundays: Opposite Directions, Sean Loomis & AJ Fox

Wednesdays: DJ Billy T

Thursdays: Dust N Bones

JOLLY JELLYFISH BEACH CLUB

443-664-6147

98th Street Coastal Hwy., Plaza Condominium

Fri., July 10: Boogiemen Sat., July 11: DJ Wax

Sun., July 12: On The Edge

Mon., July 13: First Class

Tues., July 14: Soul Chase

Wed., July 15: Joe Mama & Friends

Thurs., July 16: Uncle Ward

PICKLES PUB

410-289-4891

8th Street & Philadelphia Ave.

Fridays: Beats By DeoGee & Vince Lee & The Hustle Shuffle

Sat., July 11: The Rogue Citizens

Sun., July 12: TBA Mon., July 13: Karaoke w/ Wood

Tuesdays: Beats By Wax

Wednesdays: Beats By C-Miller

Thursdays: Beats By Connair & The Quasi Kings

PURPLE MOOSE SALOON

410-289-6953

Between Caroline & Talbot Streets On The Boards Fri., July 10: Under The Covers & DJ Mary Jane

Sat., July 11: Johnny Cardo (2pm), Under The Covers & DJ Papi

Sun., July 12: Purple Sundays - 3 Guest DJs

Mon-Thurs: DJ Papi

Thurs., July 16: Awaken

SEACRETS

410-524-4900

49th Street & Coastal Hwy. Fri., July 10: DJ E-State, Sky City Social, DJ Davie, The Wayouts, DJ Bobby O, DJ Crome & No Filter

Sat., July 11: DJ J-Spinz, DJ Bobby O, DJ E-State, DJ Connair, DJ Mary Jane, Sky City Social, The Wayouts, Stealing Savanah & Garden State Radio

Sun, July 12: Triple Rail Turn, DJ Mary Jane, DJ E-State & Lost In Paris

Mon., July 13: Blake Haley, DJ Davie & DJ E-State

Tues., July 14: Turning The Tide, DJ E-State & Opposite Directions

Wed., July 15: DJ E-State, Steal The Sky, Full Circle Duo, & Surfer Girl (Ticket Event) Thurs, July 16: Faith Noel & Go Go Gadjet

THE WEDGE

410-289-5121

806 S. Atlantic Ave. Tues., July 14: Boogiemen THE

Caribbean Pool Bar: Monday, July 13

• Unisex Fleece $20 OFF*

• Women’s Fleece $20 OFF*

• Men’s Shorts $20 OFF*

• Men’s Button Ups $20 OFF*

• S/S T-Shirts $5 OFF*

• Sandals 50%OFF* Men’s & Women’s Styles

• Tech Shirts $20 OFF* Hooded

• Hats $5 OFF*

Annual school supply drive hopes to expand

ganization receives more than 300 requests from community partners seeking assistance for students who otherwise would begin the school year without essential supplies.

(July 10, 2026) Worcester County GOLD (Giving Other Lives Dignity), a nonprofit dedicated to supporting vulnerable families across Worcester County, announced this week it will be expanding its annual School Supplies for Students Program.

The organization provides fully stocked backpacks to children facing financial hardship. Each year, the or-

The program ensures that every child receives a backpack filled with school materials tailored to their individual needs. By meeting these needs directly, GOLD helps level the playing field for students who may be experiencing homelessness, living in foster care, navigating special needs, or growing up in single parent households.

“Starting the school year prepared is a simple but powerful step toward academic success,” said Executive Director Ryan Nellans. “Our community’s generosity makes it possible for children to walk into school with confidence and dignity.”

As a small nonprofit, GOLD relies heavily on local support to meet rising demand. The organization offers several ways for residents, businesses, churches, and civic groups to get involved:

• Shop for a student: Volunteers can sign up to be matched with a local child and receive their personalized

supply list. After purchasing the items, shoppers return the filled backpack to GOLD for distribution.

• Donate supplies: Community members may purchase items from published supply lists or shop through Worcester County Public Schools’ online registries.

• Make a monetary donation: Financial contributions allow GOLD to purchase supplies for students who are not matched with a shopper

Donors can give online or mail checks to PO Box 335, Snow Hill, MD 21863 with “school supplies” noted.

OWNER/BROKER, GRI &

Cell: 443-235-5982 DebbieHileman07 @gmail.com

Home offers a screened porch and is located on an extra-large cul-de-sac lot overlooking the Golf Course! The "Nottingham" is a ranchstyle home with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, and a 2-car garage. The expansive Great Room area has 9' ceilings and gas fireplace. An open dinette and large kitchen island offer an abundance of space for informal dining. The private Owner’s Suite includes a luxurious Venetian Owner's Bath with a Granite Vanity Top, Rectangular Sink Bowls, and a Tall Vanity with Drawer Base. Excellent location and community! Debbie Hileman

843 YACHT CLUB DRIVE OCEAN PINES

Charming 3 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath waterfront townhome! Walk to the Yacht Club, Marina, & 2 pools!

The tiled Kitchen has a Breakfast Area, Pantry, & leads to a Dining Room, Living Room with gas fireplace, and sliders to the large rear deck! Upstairs you will find 3 spacious bedrooms, Laundry Room & 2 private balconies. Relax in your 16x8 Primary Bath with soaking tub & separate shower. Extras include a garage, front porch & screened porch! Pines Point Marina Boat Slip B-38 is also available for

HOME LOOKS STRAIGHT DOWN the 3rd FAIRWAY of the OCEAN PINES GOLF COURSE!

17 SUNDIAL CIRCLE OCEAN PINES

Walk to the golf club to start your tee time or grab a bite to eat! One level living with a single car garage, rear deck and a fantastic Sun Room with its own mini-split heat pump. Features include LVP flooring, Stainless Steel appliances, large breakfast bar, double pantry & a front loading washer and dryer.

$475,000

Ortho institute announced

(July 10, 2026) TidalHealth announced the launch of the TidalHealth Peninsula Orthopaedic Institute this week, a move that brings together former Peninsula Orthopaedic Associates locations — which will remain independent, physician-owned practices — with TidalHealth orthopedic clinics.

Tidal Health’s orthopedic clinics include inpatient and trauma services, and rehabilitation.

While under a new name, patients will receive seamless care from initial evaluation and imaging through surgery, rehabilitation and long-term follow-up, regardless of where they enter the system, health system officials said.

The institute will involve orthopedic surgeons, physician assistants, nurse practitioners and rehabilitation specialists to provide same-day appointments and orthopedic urgent care services.

“For more than 70 years, Peninsula Orthopaedic Associates delivered patientcentered orthopedic care on the shore,” said Pasquale Petrera, MD, president of Peninsula Orthopaedic Associates.

“Through the TidalHealth Peninsula Orthopaedic Institute, we are strengthening that legacy by bringing highly specialized care, greater coordination and improved access to the communities we serve, so patients can receive the right care, at the right time, close to home.”

Care across the Institute is supported by shared governance, standardized clin-

ical protocols and the Epic electronic medical record, enabling real-time information sharing and continuity of care across the system.

TidalHealth plans to expand access with new TidalHealth Peninsula Orthopaedic Institute clinic locations in Seaford and Millsboro, Delaware, and enhanced orthopedic services at TidalHealth Atlantic in Berlin.

“This represents a major milestone in how TidalHealth delivers orthopedic care across our region,” said Steve Leonard, president and CEO of TidalHealth. “The TidalHealth Peninsula Orthopaedic Institute creates one system, one standard and one shared commitment to excellence. It strengthens our ability to coordinate care, expand access and continue caring for our neighbors with the compassion and quality they expect, now with even greater connectivity across the region.”

Bank promotions

Calvin B. Taylor Bankshares, Inc., parent company of Calvin B. Taylor Bank, has announced the promotion of Lee Chisholm to Senior Commercial Loan Officer and Senior Vice President, as well as the addition of Trent Pusey as Senior Commercial Loan Officer and Senior Vice President.

Since joining the Bank in 2006, Lee Chisholm has been an integral member of its retail banking and lending teams. He began his career in retail banking be-

fore transitioning to lending in 2013, where he has held several roles including Credit Analyst, Branch Manager, and Loan/Business Development Officer. Chisholm played a key role in expanding the Bank’s presence in Accomack County, Virginia, and Wicomico County, Maryland. During this time, he remained actively engaged in the community and continues to serve on the boards of the Snow Hill, Maryland and Chincoteague Island, Virginia Chambers of Commerce, while also being an active

CROSSWORD

member of the Salisbury Rotary Club and the Greater Salisbury Committee. Chisholm is a graduate of Frostburg State University, the American Bankers Association Commercial Lending School, and the Maryland Bankers Association Banking School. In his new role as Senior Commercial Loan Officer, he will focus on expanding and deepening commercial banking relationships across the Bank’s established markets in Maryland and Virginia.

Trent Pusey joins the Bank with more than 25 years of banking experience serving customers across the Eastern Shore. Most recently, he served as Senior Relationship Officer and Senior Vice

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

There is nothing that you cannot handle this week, Aries. Expect to juggle a lot at the same time, but somehow you make it look easy. A calm demeanor is a big asset.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

This week will be fairly quiet for you, Taurus. You are likely to connect with a task and dig down deep until it is completed. If someone tries to persuade you to take a break, you likely won’t.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Many forces are working together to provide insight, Gemini. Take a step back and consider all of the variables in play. The solution may be simpler than you can imagine.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, there is no time for daydreaming right now. You will be tasked with managing multiple projects in the days head. Remain focused.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Are you getting pummeled by obstacles, Leo? It could be that you need to set aside more time to yourself to complete the tasks expected of you. You also may need to ask for help.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, an ability to communicate clearly is among your most notable assets. If you have thoughts about explaining your ideas to others, keep reinforcing your goals.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, your projects will take some time to set up. A patient approach will pay off as results begin to materialize. Your ability to multi-task will drive you forward.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Life isn’t an individual sport, Scorpio. You don’t have to do everything alone. Interact with others as much as you can this week.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, when a person has found his or her path, naturally the desire is to start walking down it. You are eager to get started on something that has been on your mind.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, keep an open mind so you can discover new experiences. You don’t have to completely reinvent yourself, but make a concerted effort to be open to new ideas.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

The horizon is clear and you have all of the information you need to navigate what life is throwing at you right now, Aquarius. Keep the faith that you are on the right path.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, share your experiences and feelings with someone close to you. Let your feelings out and express your gratitude to the person who lends a listening ear.

BUSINESS BRIEFS

President at LINKBANK. Throughout his career, Pusey has built strong relationships within the business community and earned a reputation for exceptional client service. He is a graduate of Florida State University, the American Bankers Association Commercial Lending School, and the Maryland Bankers Association Banking School. Pusey is also actively involved in the community, currently serving on the Board of Directors for the Life Crisis Center and Salisbury-Wicomico Economic Development (SWED). He will support the Bank’s strategic focus on developing commercial banking relationships in contiguous markets while building long-term client partnerships through exceptional customer service.

“We congratulate Lee Chisholm on his well-earned promotion and welcome

Trent Pusey to our lending team, as both will play a vital role in supporting local businesses and strengthening the communities we serve,” said Doug Cook, Chief Lending Officer and Executive Vice President.

Leadership appointments

First Shore Federal Savings and Loan Association has announced the promotions of two leadership team members, Rebecca Mason and Sarah Ward, following approval by the Board of Directors.

First Shore has created the role of Chief Operating Officer (COO) to streamline operations and strengthen internal talent development. Rebecca L. Mason will assume the role July 1 while continuing as Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).

Mason has served First Shore for 21 years in a wide range of increasingly responsible positions. As CISO, she oversees the compliance, recovery, and policy

activities needed to help safeguard customer information. As COO, Mason will oversee association operations and work with branch management to improve efficiency and professional development.

Sarah L. Ward, CPA, has been promoted to Assistant Vice President, effective July 1. As Controller, Ward oversees First Shore’s accounting department and supports financial reporting, budgeting, internal controls, and regulatory compliance. Using her 12+ years of experience, she is committed to improving financial transparency, streamlining accounting processes, and supporting sound financial decision-making.

COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS

SEA WATCH HOSTS ANNIVERSARY EVENT

On July 2, Sea Watch Condominium held a 50th anniversary season ribbon-cutting event in conjunction with the Greater Ocean City Maryland Chamber of Commerce. A crowd of more than 60 people gathered at 115th Street in front of the Sea Watch's iconic V-shaped structure to celebrate many happy memories having been made over the years. Chamber President Amy Thompson and Chamber Membership Director Olive Mawyer presented Sea Watch Board of Directors President Alan Roman with a commemorative plaque. Elected leaders, including Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan, Worcester County Commissioners Joe Mitrecic and Ted Elder, Sen. Mary Beth Carozza and a representative from Congressman Andy Harris’ office, also presented official proclamations and citations.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

4 STEPS KIWANIS

On Wednesday, July 1, Sandy Winter, founder of 4STEPS Therapeutic Riding Program in Parsonsburg spoke to the Kiwanis Club at the Ocean Pines Library. Established in 2002, 4STEPS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and PATH International Member Center providing equine-assisted activities and therapies for children and adults with disabilities. Located in the Wicomico Forest, the program offers adaptive riding lessons, a summer camp, and veterans’ programs through Operation Charlie Horse, serving families across Wicomico. Club President Sarah Walker is pictured with Winter.

CELEBRATED

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC

DAR DEDICATION

After two weather postponements, General Levin Winder Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), recently dedicated a marker at the Worcester County Veterans Memorial that commemorates Revolutionary War Patriots who achieved American Independence. State Senator Mary Beth Carozza presented a senatorial proclamation to Chapter Regent Betty-Jane Cain (pictured) and President Rick Farr accepted the marker on behalf of the Worcester County Veterans Memorial Foundation. The DAR is a women’s service organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history, and securing America’s future through better education. For more information, visit www.dar.org.

To celebrate the 10-year anniversary of Seacrets Distillery, the establishment showcased its award-winning

ticipants also had the opportunity to win a gift basket full of distillery swag.

Fri., July 10

BABY TIME

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. An opportunity for babies (0-2 years) and their caregivers to socialize, play, read and explore. 410-641-0650, worcesterlibrary.org

OC MAHJONG CLUB

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

CREATIVE CONNECTIONS: 60+ ART CLUB

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Learn how artists “see” and how they translate that vision to paper. Enjoy an interactive presentation

on drawing techniques. Practice drawing by sketching from a photo. No experience required. 410-524-9433

MOVIE MATINEE

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

MARYLAND CRAB CAKE DINNER

Stevenson United Methodist Church, 123 N. Main St., Berlin, 4-6 p.m. One crab cake sandwich platter, $15; two crab cake sandwich platter, $25; and crab cake sandwiches, $10. Platters include green beans, baked potato and Cole slaw. Bake sale table available.

OPEN MIC WITH SISTA BIG

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 6 p.m. Bring your talent and join in for an inspiring

evening of poetry, music and comedy. Performer sign up is first-come, firstserved. Light refreshments. 410-9570878, worcesterlibrary.org

Sat., July 11

COFFEE, TEA & TRAVELIN’ HARMONY

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 7-8:30 p.m. Tickets $15. The Delmarva Chorus will be holding their annual chorus show. Cost is $15. There will be free coffee, tea and homemade desserts, beverages, door prizes, 50/50 and raffles. Tickets: Barb, 814421-3437.

KIWANIS OP/OC PANCAKE BREAKFAST

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 8-11 a.m. Pancakes, sausage, juice and coffee. Cost is $10 for adults and free to children 9 years and younger. All are welcome.

OCEAN PINES ANGLERS CLUB MEETING

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 9:30 a.m. Taylor Swanson will be speaking about prevalence and problems caused by the invasive species (snakeheads and blue catfish) in local waters. Also fishing reports, regulation updates, etc. All wel-

come. 410-641-7662

PRE-HISTORIC PLAY: DINO CRAFTS & ACTIVITIES

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 10 a.m.-noon. Drop in for dinosaur themed crafts and activities. For families. 410-957-0878, worcesterlibrary.org

FREE KIDS CRAFT SATURDAYS

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Featuring “Pipe Cleaner Dragonflies.” Guided crafts led by friendly instructors. All supplies provided. Jessica Bauer, development@artleagueofoceancity.org, 410-524-9433

TEEN CHEF

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 12:30 p.m. Learn how to make simple and delicious dishes. For ages 12-18 years. Registration required: 410-208-4014. worcesterlibrary.org

ANIME AND MANGA CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Stop by the library to discuss all things anime and meet like-minded people.

Continued on Page 50

CALENDAR

Best for ages 12-18 years. 410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org

OCEAN PINES FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods. Also featuring family-friendly activities, music and unique shopping experiences. Open to the public, year round. 410-6417052, https://www.oceanpines.org/web/pages /farmers-artisans-market

Sun., July 12

OC CRUZERS CAR SHOW

Somerset Plaza, Somerset Street, Ocean City, 3-6 p.m. Join the OC Cruzers Car Club for a free, family friendly car show. Each show will feature classic cars, custom rides and hot rods. Also, live music or a DJ. https://www.ocdc.org

SUNDAES IN THE PARK WITH FIREWORKS

Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 7-9 p.m. Featuring “Chris Sacks Band: Tropical Rock.” Kids’ activities and ice cream for purchase. Followed by fireworks.

https://www.ococean.com/things-todo/free-family-fun/sundaes-in-thepark/

BERLIN 2ND SUNDAY ART & VINTAGE MARKET

Berlin Main Street Arts & Entertainment District & Maryland Welcome Center parking lot, 14 S. Main St., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Art and vintage vendors in downtown Berlin. Just a few blocks down from the Berlin Farmers Market. Sponsored by The Merry Haven and the Town of Berlin Main Street & Arts and Entertainment District.

SECOND SUNDAYS AT THE TAYLOR HOUSE

Calvin B. Taylor House, 208 N. Main St., Berlin, 6-7:30 p.m. Concert on the grounds featuring “State Beach Project.” Bring a chair or blanket. Beer, wine, soda, and snacks available for sale. Donations are always appreciated to help cover event costs.

BERLIN FARMERS MARKET

Sundays (May-October) - Pitts, Commerce and Main streets, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine. Producers only market, petting farm (9-11 a.m.), live music. www.TheBerlinFarmersMarket.com

SEWING SEEDS OF LOVE

Sundays - Buckingham Presbyterian Church, 20 S. Main St., Berlin, 10-11 a.m. Youth of all ages learn how to sew while making a difference. 410-6410234

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

Mon., July 13

JUNIOR PICKLEBALL CAMP - AGES 8-14

Ocean Pines Racquet Center, 11443

Manklin Creek Road, 4:30-6 p.m. This camp is for beginner levels, ages 8-14 years or have limited skills. Held July 13, 14 and 15. Cost is $75. Registration: 410641-7728.

JUNIOR PICKLEBALL CAMP - AGES 12-15

Ocean Pines Racquet Center, 11443

Manklin Creek Road, 6-8 p.m. Camp is for intermediate levels, ages 12-15 years. Requires prior instruction (camp, PE 2+ yrs. lessons) or plays 4-6 times a month. Held July 13, 14 and 15. Cost is $100. Registration: 410-641-7728.

STORY TIME: COWS

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

WRITING FOR WELLNESS

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

MONDAY MOVIES AND MUNCHIES

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Sink your teeth into a dino-rrific movie. For ages 6-11 years. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

SWITCH TOURNAMENT

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30 p.m. Battle it out in Mario Kart and Smash Bros. Light refreshments provided. For ages 12-18 years. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

TOPS OF BERLIN - GROUP #169

TidalHealth Atlantic, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 5-6:30 p.m. Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) is an educational group that promotes weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. Held weekly on Mondays. https://www.tops.org/home

ZUMBA

Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 4:30 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com

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. If you plan to visit, please Contact: Director: Ludwig692@outlook.com, 410-

641-6876 or Membership Coordinator: ocelissa@yahoo.com, 410-641-8050.

OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS

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

Tues., July 14

THE DINO-SIZED MAGICAL CIRCUS!

Sturgis Park Garden, 200 River St., Snow Hill, 10:30 a.m. How can Circus Greg make his juggling, rolling-globe walking, plate spinning, and magic trick show more exciting? By adding a dinosaur. But he needs your help to do it. For ages 6-11. 410-632-5622

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

STORY TIME

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

THE OCEAN PINES SOCIAL CIRCLE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m. Get to know your neighbors at the Ocean Pines library. Mix and mingle and enjoy some refreshments and a fun activity. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

HISTORY ALIVE! ROSALIE OF RIVERSDALE

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 11 a.m. Relive the war of 1812 with Rosalie Calvert, the unusual and feisty Mistress of the Riversdale Plantation. Sponsored by the Junior Women’s Club of Pocomoke. For families. 410-957-0878

ADVANCE CARE PLANNING WEBINAR

Held second Tuesday of each month, 1 p.m. Join: https://tidalhealth.webex.com/wbxmjs/ joinservice/sites/tidalhealth/meeting/d ownload/bd773f677932425da99b7704c 7afc239?MTID=ma62eb0ffd8f8cd1deb0 19210b37d26f3.

MASTER GARDENERS PLANT CLINIC

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1-4 p.m. Bring any questions you have and feel free to show your plants as well. 410208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

THE DINO-SIZED MAGICAL CIRCUS!

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. How can Circus Greg make his juggling, rolling-globe walking, plate spinning, and magic trick show more exciting? By adding a dinosaur. But he needs your help to do it. For ages 6-11. 410-2084014

MARGARET BRENT AND THE INDIANS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Meet colonist Margaret Brent. She would become the first woman to own land in America, its first female lawyer and the first woman to demand the right to vote. 410-641-0650, worcesterlibrary.org

PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP TidalHealth Neurology, 9714 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3:15-4 p.m. Held the second Tuesday of each month. 410-6414765, kay.kinnikin@tidalhealth.org

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS SEAFOOD NIGHT Columbus Hall, 9901 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Steamed crabs, crab cakes, fried seafood platters, and a menu for all is available. You must pre-order crabs by calling 410-524-7994 or visiting https://koc9053-seafoodnights.square.site/.

T(W)EEN SWITCH GAME NIGHT: SMASH BROS.

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 5-6 p.m. This month’s game is Smash Bros. Light refreshments provided. For ages 12-18 years. 410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org

BOOK CLUB @ TIDES AND VINE

Tides & Vine, 106 W. Green St., Snow Hill, 6 p.m. Join in for an evening of books and wine. Bring what you’re reading and tell the group about it. Must be at least 21 years of age. 410-632-5622, worcesterlibrary.org

VIRTUAL GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP

Held second Tuesday of each month, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Join: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/Mf9LZPTXSNuuCmHOW3WTrA# /registration. 410-629-6848, lora.pangratz@tidalhealth.org.

BEACH HEROES-OC

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

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

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

ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE

Tuesdays - Lewes Senior Center, 32083 Janice Rd. Lewes, DE, 7-9 p.m. Experienced dancers and others interested in watching or learning more are welcome. No partner required. Info: TangobytheBeach.com.

CALENDAR

ZUMBA TONING TUESDAYS

Tuesdays - Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 5:15 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com

WEIGHT MANAGEMENT AND WELLNESS GROUP

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

Wed., July 15

MOVIES ON THE BEACH

Carousel Oceanfront Hotel & Condos, 11700 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 8:30 p.m. Featured movie is “Smurfs.” Free movies on the beach every Wednesday, June 3-Aug. 12. Bring blankets, chairs and snacks. Movie lineup: https://www.ococean.com/things-todo/free-family-fun/.

FAMILY FUN NIGHTS

Ocean Pines Yacht Club Pool, 1 Mumfords Landing Road, 6-8 p.m. DJ, games and prizes. Cost is $5 per swimmer at the gate. Food available for purchase. 410-641-7052, oceanpines.org

MOVIES AT THE MUSEUM

Calvin B. Taylor House, 208 N. Main St., Berlin, 8 p.m. Featuring “Tuck Everlasting.” Free to the public and rated G or PG. Popcorn, candy, and drinks for sale. Bring a chair or blanket. A $5 donation is always appreciated!

THE DINO-SIZED MAGICAL CIRCUS!

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. How can Circus Greg make his juggling, rolling-globe walking, plate spinning, and magic trick show more exciting? By adding a dinosaur. But he needs your help to do it. For ages 6-11. 410-524-1818

BACKGAMMON CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Drop in for a game of Backgammon, whether you’re an expert or want to refresh your skills. Beginners welcome. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

TidalHealth John H. “Jack” Burbage, Jr. Cancer Center, 9707 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 1-2 p.m. Hosted by Women Supporting Women. Held on the third Wednesday of each month. 410-5487880

PUZZLE SWAP

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 1-7 p.m. Bring your gently used puzzles and leave with a new-to-you puzzle. Don’t have a puzzle but still want one? That’s okay, too. All puzzles must be complete and in their original box. All ages welcome. 410-6410650

FASHION TRANSFORMATION: T-SHIRT REMAKE

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 2 p.m. Deconstruct a t-shirt into a useful item. For ages 12-18 years. Registration required: 410-957-0878. 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. Open to the public. 443-605-5028

ZUMBA PLUS!!

Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 4:30 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com

Thurs., July 16

SUNSET PARK CONCERTS

Sunset Park, 700 S. Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 7-9 p.m. Featuring “The Fitzkee Brothers Featuring Chris Vitarello.” Admission to the park is free. https://www.ococean.com/things-todo/free-family-fun/sunset-park-partynights/

OCEAN PINES CONCERTS IN THE PARK

White Horse Park Pavilion, Ocean Pines, 7-9 p.m. Free community event featuring “Hurricane Kevin Cat 5.” Food for sale. BYOB welcome. 410-641-7052

FULTONTOWN THEATRE CO. PRESENTING THE MECHANICALS ATTEMPT … THE LIFE AND TIMES OF SIR JOHN FALSTAFF

Calvin B. Taylor House, 208 N. Main St., Berlin ,7:30 p.m. Featuring words by William Shakespeare. Excerpts from “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “The Merry Wives of Windsor,” “Henry V,” “Hamlet” and more. Bring a chair or blanket. www.taylorhousemuseum.org

STORYTELLING ON THE LAWN

Calvin B. Taylor House, 208 N. Main St., Berlin, 10 a.m. Featuring “Outside In.” Free event. Bring a chair.

PLAY TIME

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Join in for a variety of activities and toys. Play and socialize with other families. For ages 0-5 years. 410-632-5622, worcesterlibrary.org

THE DINO-SIZED MAGICAL CIRCUS!

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. How can Circus Greg make his juggling, rolling-globe walking, plate spinning, and magic trick show more exciting? By

adding a dinosaur. But he needs your help to do it. For ages 6-11. 410-641-0650

FANCY NANCY PARTY

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Boys and girls, join in for “tea,” tattoos and tutus. Dress fancy and be ready to get messy. Light refreshments available. For families. 410208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP

Pocomoke City 50plus Center, 400 Walnut St., 11 a.m. Hosted by the Worcester County Health Department. Held on the third Thursday of each month. 410-6321100, ext. 1113

THE DINO-SIZED MAGICAL CIRCUS!

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 2 p.m. How can Circus Greg make his juggling, rollingglobe walking, plate spinning, and magic trick show more exciting? By adding a dinosaur. But he needs your help to do it. For ages 6-11 years. 410-957-0878

LET’S MAKE … BYO CRAFTS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Bring your own craft project and work alongside other adult crafters. Share and exchange ideas, skills and supplies. A unique assortment of supplies will be provided. 410-641-0650

NAILED IT! DINO EDITION

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2:30 p.m. Work in a group to complete a food decorating challenge. Registration required: 410-208-4014. worcesterlibrary.org

JURASSIC STITCHES

Maryland’s Coast - Worcester County Tourism & Economic Development, 107 W. Green St., Snow Hill, 3:30 p.m. Teens and adults are invited to design your own embroidery Dino craft. There will be dinosaur beads, letter beads, colorful shapes and more. 410-632-5622, 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

ONGOING EVENTS

ESCAPE THE APEX PREDATOR

From June 29 through August 21, stop by any Worcester County library branch to solve puzzles and clues to escape the anomalocaris in this virtual game. Must register to receive the link, which will stay active until August 21 so participants can play at their own speed. For families. Registration required: 410-632-5622.

TAKE AND MAKE: COLOR-IN MAGNETS

Ocean City library, 10003 Coastal Highway, throughout July. Stop by the library to grab a special monthly take-home craft while supplies last. For families. 410-524-1818

OC READS: ‘WE ARE ALL GUILTY HERE’ BY KARIN SLAUGHTER

Ocean City library, 10003 Coastal Highway, July 1-31. Pick up a copy of this month’s read, then come in before the end of the month to share your impressions and enter the drawing to win free books. 410-524-1818

POLISH AMERICAN CLUB OF DELMARVA

Meets the second Wednesday of each month (except July and August) at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 9901 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 2-4 p.m. A social organization of men and women of Polish or Slavic descent.

OCEAN CITY-BERLIN ROTARY CLUB

Meets the first and third Wednesday of each month at Ocean Pines library, 11107 Cathell Road, 6 p.m. ocberlinrotary@gmail.com

MARYLAND FIREFIGHTER 50/50 FUNDRAISER

Drawings are held every Thursday at 8 p.m. Ticket sales open Thursdays at 8:05 p.m. and close the following Thursday at 7:59 p.m. One winner takes home 50% of the total jackpot and the remainder supports the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department. Tickets: https://md.5050raffle.org/give/mdfire/50-50raffles/md5050/charities/ocean-pines

RUNAWAY BRIDE WALKING TOUR

Stroll down Main Street in Berlin and visit the shops where Ike fell in love with Maggie. Visit the Atlantic Hotel where many of the scenes were filmed. Map of filming locations: https://berlinmainstreet.com/Runaway-Bride-WalkingTour.pdf.

2025 KIWANIS LOTTERY TICKETS ON SALE

On sale every Saturday morning at the Ocean Pines Farmers Market from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. One $20 ticket is good for all 365 drawings in 2025. Benefits the youth of the community.

OCEAN CITY CHAPTER OF THE SONS AND DAUGHTERS OF ITALY

Meets every month (except July and August) at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 9901 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Membership is open to individuals of Italian descent and their spouses. www.sonsofitalyoceancity.com

Crossword answers from page 46

52 OC Today-Dispatch

with excellent organizational, computer, people, creative skills, and the ability to learn a variety of systems. Must be knowledgeable in creating spreadsheets & flyers.

Position is Monday thru Friday with some weekends.

Send resume to: info@travelwithoasis.com

No Phone Calls

Classifieds www.baysideoc.com www.octodaydispatch.com

Multi-Site Operations Manager

Manufacturing Company has a position open for a Multi-Site Operations Manager. Candidate will plan, direct, coordinate, and oversee multi-site plant manufacturing operations, be responsible for manufacturing and distribution departments and directing daily operations, create and execute strategies and policies, establish and communicate strategic directions, collaborate with executive leadership, collaborate with key stakeholders, provide input and recommendations regarding staffing, wage/salary guidelines, materials and capital expenditures, provide monthly responses to budget variance, oversee multi-CAPEX projects, design and implement physical design/layouts, ensure compliance with the Quality (ISO), review quality assurance initiatives, monitor production costs, develop and enforce safety protocols and procedures, provide leadership to manufacturing and distribution teams, oversee employee performance and set performance goals, develop leaders and build organizational capability, develop operational strategies including standardizing processes and driving lean/continuous improvement initiatives, oversee creation and management budgets and collaborate with procurement and sourcing teams.

U.S. Bachelor’s degree, or foreign equivalent, in business administration or industrial engineering as well as trained/skilled in project management, manufacturing practices, total productive maintenance (TPM), Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), performance management programs, quality standard in manufacturing, knowledge of profit/loss in small to mid-size organization, experience with CAPEX management, familiar with continuous improvement initiatives, inventory management, knowledge of lean manufacturing initiatives and exposure to Research and Development (R&D) in manufacturing.

Send applications to Roberto Salcido at rsalcido@riccachemical.com or mail to 412 West Fork Drive, Arlington, Texas 76012.

LIVE-IN HELP NEEDED

Help needed to take care of a quadriplegic. Live-in position w/salary. Call 443-880-5682.

F/PT HEAD HOUSEKEEPER/ ROOM ATTENDANT

35 Suite Boutique Hotel Bayfront, 58th St. Hands on, good work environment & pay. Apply: bhuber@fagers.com

CLEANERS NEEDED

Vacation rental cleaners needed for OC. Experience preferred but not required. OC Purifiers. Call or text 443-397-1189 or email karen@ocpurifiers.com.

JOLLY ROGER

Small Engine Mechanic & Ride Maintenance. (Must have mechanical knowledge)

Technical Support & Installation (Entry level with knowledge of network systems)

SEASONAL HELP: Cashiers, Waterpark Attendants, Lifeguards, Ride Operators Wage based on experience. Benefits available. 410-289-4902

• ASSISTANT MANAGER

Full-Time, Year-Round

• COOK YR, Full or PT Time

• BARTENDER PT, Seasonal

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

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

Beach House Rental 3-bed, 3-bath on 26th Street. https://bit.ly/3RR214G

p.m.

YEAR-ROUND RENTAL

WANTED Responsible professional couple seeking year-round, 1+ bedroom rental. Excellent references. September/October move-in. Email: rowilkin@hotmail.com.

ROOMMATES

HOUSESHARE IN BERLIN

$600 per month. Nonsmoker, no pets. 443-513-0190

Looking For Roommate Fenwick area, private bedroom & bathroom. $200/week.

Mature 40+ highly preferred. Email stressfreecleaning1@ gmail.com

ROOM FOR RENT

Fully furnished, large, clean, private room. Full house privileges. $900 per mo., util’s included. $400 sec. dep. Call 443-880-2317.

AFFORDABLE TWO BEDROOM APARTMENTS

Low and Moderate Income

~ Accessible Units and Facilities Available

~ Air Conditioning

~ Kitchen-Furnished w/Range & Refrigerator

~ Wall-to-Wall Carpet

~ On-Site Laundry Facilities

~ One Year Lease

Call Us Now To See If You Qualify! 410-641-0830

TTY users via MRS Dial 711

This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

75 ACRE FARM, BERLIN, MD 30 acres are cleared. $1,291,692.00 Serious Inquiries Only. Text 443-926-1393

Dallas Harrington

OFFICE/STORAGE SPACE FOR RENT Conveniently located at Herring Creek Professional Center, Unit 28, this 775-square-foot office/storage unit offers flexible space suitable for a small business, professional office, workshop, or storage needs. • 775 square feet • Professional business park setting • Flexible office and storage layout • Reasonable rent. For additional information or to schedule a viewing, call 410-726-2309 or email: info@kiteloft.com. Storage, Warehouse, Office, or Retail with a roll up door. 1176 SF plus 600 SF loft. West OC near Harbor. 12636 Sunset Avenue For Rent $1,600 410-422-2100

Commercial Space for Lease ONLY 1 UNIT LEFT! 2-3 Units available, can be divided or joined. Approx. 1000 sq. ft. Busy major road in Town of Berlin. Call 443-880-8885 for more information.

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT

Downtown Berlin

$425 month + utils. 2 units available. Call 410-713-2065.

2 Office/Retail Spaces available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft. and 1728 sq. ft. Call 443-497-4200

Industrial Space Yard and Storage Shed. Approx. 10x25+/Route 90/Bishopville. Call 443-497-4200

Run your business card in our SERVICE DIRECTORY

CALL 410-723-6397 for pricing!

SERVICES WANT TO BUY

LARRY’S HANDYMAN

SERVICES No job too small, windows, entrance doors, interior doors, storm doors, shower doors, drywall repairs and paint, laminate floors, interior paint. Over 40 years of carpentry experience. Please call Larry, 410-251-9066

Larryandkim1954@ gmail.com

FOR SALE

3 WINDOW A/C UNITS

Used only 4 days while main HVAC compressor was replaced. 2 LG brand 12K BTU $300 ea. and 1 LG brand 8K BTU $200. All three $750. Brad, 410-935-1963

YARD SALE

YARD SALE

Caine Woods

Neighborhood-Wide Yard Sales 136th-146th Sts., bayside, Ocean City. Sat., 7/11, 8am-1pm. Rain date 7/12.

VEHICLES

VEHICLES

2003 Carriage Cameo 5th Wheeler. Great condition. A/C, propane heat, excellent interior layout. $5,000 or best offer. Call Dave 410-370-2358.

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

FOR SALE

Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-855-993-0969 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

MISC. FOR SALE

Get Boost Infinite! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 855-977-5719

MISC. FOR SALE

Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 On-Demand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-855-407-6870

REAL ESTATE

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

Advertise in MDDC 410-723-6397

1966 Greenspring Drive, Suite LL2

Lutherville-Timonium, Maryland 21093 (410) 238-2840

per annum from the date of foreclosure auction to the date funds are received in the office of the Substitute Trustees.

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE OF

RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY

Unit 101, Indigo, 5603 Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842 a.k.a. 5603 Atlantic Avenue, # 101, Ocean City, MD 21842

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from Richard L. China and Tammy L. China, dated September 21, 2007 and recorded in Liber 5002, Folio 79 among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, with an original principal balance of $960,000.00, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Substitute Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, 1 West Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863, Courthouse Door, on

Monday, July 13, 2026 AT 11:00 AM

ALL THAT FEE-SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND and the improvements thereon situated in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The real property is known as Unit 101, Indigo, 5603 Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842 a.k.a. 5603 Atlantic Avenue, #101, Ocean City, MD 21842, Tax ID #10-751349. Tax Map 0113, Grid 0022, Parcel 7897.

Terms of Sale: The property will be sold “as is” and subject to conditions, restrictions, easements and agreements of record affecting same, if any and with no warranty of any kind. A deposit of $120,000.00 in the form of cash, cashier’s check, certified check, or other form as the Substitute Trustees determine acceptable, is required at the time of auction. Balance of the purchase price to be paid in cash within ten days of final ratification of sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County. At the Substitute Trustees’ discretion, the foreclosure purchaser, if a corporation or LLC, must produce evidence, prior to bidding, of the legal formation of such entity. The purchaser, other than the Holder of the Note, its assigns, or designees, shall pay interest on the unpaid purchase money at the rate of 7.375%

In the event settlement is delayed for any reason , there shall be no abatement of interest. Real estate taxes and all other public charges, or assessments, ground rent, or condo/HOA assessments, not otherwise divested by ratification of the sale, to be adjusted as of the date of foreclosure auction and assumed thereafter by the purchaser. Purchaser will take title subject to any private utility water and sewer covenants, and will be responsible for any fees assessed in transferring the account. All private utility water and sewer or front foot benefit charges will be adjusted to the date of sale and assumed thereafter by the Purchaser. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes and settlement expenses, and all other costs incident to settlement, shall be borne by the purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. Purchaser assumes the risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale forward.

TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE. If the purchaser shall fail to comply with the terms of the sale or fails to go to settlement within ten (10) days of ratification of the sale, the Substitute Trustees may, in addition to any other available remedies, declare the entire deposit forfeited and resell the property at the risk and cost of the defaulting purchaser, and the purchaser agrees to pay reasonable attorneys' fees for the Substitute Trustees, plus all costs incurred, if the Substitute Trustees have filed the appropriate motion with the Court to resell the property. Purchaser waives personal service of any paper filed in connection with such a motion on himself and/or any principal or corporate designee, and expressly agrees to accept service of any such paper by regular mail directed to the address provided by said bidder at the time of foreclosure auction. In such event, the defaulting purchaser shall be liable for the payment of any deficiency in the purchase price, all costs and expenses of resale, reasonable attorney's fees, and all other charges due and incidental and consequential damages, and any deficiency in the underlying secured debt. The purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds or profits resulting from any resale of the property. If the Substitute Trustees cannot convey insurable title, the purchaser's sole remedy at law or in equity shall be the return of the deposit without interest. The sale is subject to postsale confirmation and audit of the status of the loan with the loan servicer including, but not limited to, determination of whether the borrower entered into any repayment agreement, reinstated or paid off the loan prior to the sale. In any such event, this sale shall be null and void, and the Purchaser's sole remedy, in law or equity, shall be the return of his deposit without interest.

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

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

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

Mark H. Wittstadt, Gerard F. Miles, Jr., and Cole Luthy, Substitute Trustees

Tidewater Auctions, LLC PO Box 9, Phoenix, MD 21131 410-825-2900 www.tidewaterauctions.com

OCD-6/25/3t

TRUSTEE’S SALE OF CONDOMINIUM UNIT

In accordance with the order in Case no. C-23-CV-25-000026 in the Circuit Court for Worcester County, the Trustee named below will sell at public auction to the highest bidder on Monday, July 13, 2026, at 3:30 p.m., at the front door of Oceanscape Condominium Unit No. 402, 16 64th Street, Ocean City, MD, all that property designated as Oceanscape Condominium Unit No. 402, together with an undivided percentage interest in the common elements, as established pursuant to a Condominium Master Deed and ByLaws, as amended, dated September 12, 2001, and recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland in Liber No. 3122, Folio 573, et seq., and pursuant also to the several plats described in the said Condominium Master Deed and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records in Plat Book No. 171, Folio 28, et. seq., as further described in a deed recorded at Book 8417, Page 180, et seq., in “AS IS” condition, SUBJECT to all the liens, covenants, agreements, conditions, easements and restrictions as may appear among the land records of Worcester County, Maryland.

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

feited and the property resold at the risk and cost of the defaulting Purchaser.

For further information, you may contact Spencer Ayres Cropper, Trustee, 410-723-1400.

OCD-6/25/3t

Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland

BID

SOLICITATION

B01-27 – 14th Street Water Treatment Plant Window and Door Replacements

The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking BID’s from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the 14th Street Water Treatment Plant Window and Door Replacements and for said work to conform with the BID Documents.

BID Documents for the 14th Street Water Treatment Plant Window and Door Replacements may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Leonard at dleonard@oceancitymd.gov, or by calling (410) 723-6643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their BID’s. The Town is not responsible for the content of any BID Document received through any third-party service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed BID Documents.

A Pre-BID Meeting will be held on MONDAY, JUNE 29TH, 2026 AT 10:00AM EST, AT THE 14TH STREET WATER TREATMENT PLANT, 14TH STREET AND ST. LOUIS AVENUE, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842. The Last Day for Questions will be on MONDAY, JULY 13TH, 2026 AT 4:00PM EST Addendum will be posted by close of business on TUESDAY, JULY 14TH, 2026

Sealed BID Documents are due no later than MONDAY, JULY 27TH, 2026, BY 10:00AM EST. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION, ON TUESDAY, JULY 28TH, 2026, AT 1:00PM EST. BID’s are to be submitted to the Mayor and City Council, Attention: City Clerk; Room 230, 301 North Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (14th Street Water Treatment Plant Window and Door Replacements) must be noted on the outside of the package. Late BID Documents will not be

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

Matt Perry Procurement Manager Town of Ocean City, Maryland

OCD-6/25/6t

Aldridge | Pite, LLP

6001 Executive Blvd., Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20852

ANDREW J. BRENNER, et al.

6001 Executive Blvd., Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20852

Substitute Trustees/ Plaintiffs, vs.

RONALD DIETER JR.

905 Walnut Street

Pocomoke City, MD 21851

Defendant(s) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

Case No. C-23-CV-26-000041

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given this 18th day of June, 2026, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings and described as 905 Walnut Street, Pocomoke City, MD 21851, made and reported by the Substitute Trustee, will be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 20th day of July, 2026, provided a copy of this NOTICE be inserted in some weekly newspaper printed in said County, once in each of three successive weeks before the 13th day of July, 2026.

The report states the purchase price at the Foreclosure sale to be $122,500.00.

Susan R. Braniecki Clerk, Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland True Copy

Test: Susan R. Braniecki

Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-6/25/3t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 21162

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JOAQUIN VILA BARRETO AKA: JOAQUIN SALVADOR VILA BARRETO

Notice is given that Marian Dolores Vila Barreto, 2 Mist Flower Rd., Berlin, MD 21811-1697, was on June 16, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Joaquin Vila Barreto who died on January 07, 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 December, 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 December, 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.

Marian Dolores Vila Barreto 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: June 26, 2026

OCD-6/25/3t

B. RANDALL COATES ESQ

204 WEST GREEN STREET P O BOX 293

SNOW HILL, MD 21863

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS

OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES

ESTATE NO. 21163

Notice is given that the Circuit/Probate Court of Orange County, Florida appointed STEVEN K SCHWARTZ, 5693 Graceful Way, Delray Beach, FL 33484-1317, as the personal representative of the Estate of STEVEN BULMER, who died on November 05, 2025 domiciled in Florida USA.

The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is B. RANDALL COATES, 204 W Green St., Snow Hill, MD 21863-1057.

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.

Name of Newspaper: Ocean City Digest. Foreign Personal Representatives: Steven K. Schwartz. June 25, 2026 Date of first publication.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY

ONE W MARKET STREET

ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

OCD-6/25/3t

JOSEPH E. MOORE ESQ

WILLIAMS MOORE, L.L.P. 12800 HOSPITALITY WAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-9394

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21166

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF BARBARA C. MORRIS

Notice is given that Kelley M. Krause, 929 General Beauregard Dr., Virgina Beach, VA 23454-2606, was on June 23, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Barbara C. Morris who died on June 13, 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 23rd day of December, 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 23rd day of December, 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.

Kelley M. Krause 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:

SIDRAH IJAZ

429 W. Market Street

Snow Hill, MD 21863

Plaintiff, v. JENKINS ARNOLD aka ARNOLD JENKINS

5746 Coventry Parish Road Westover, MD 21871 Defendant, And POCOMOKE CITY, MARYLAND 101 Clarke Ave Pocomoke City, MD 21851 Defendant, And WORCESTER COUNTY

Attn: Phil Thompson l West Market Street, Room 1105 Snow Hill, MD 21863, Defendant, And

ALL PERSONS THAT HAVE OR CLAIM TO HAVE ANY INTEREST IN PROPERTY SITUATE IN WORCESTER CO, MD

DESCRIBED AS: LOT 2 3267 Sq Ft 707 Clarke Ave Taylors Subdiv, Pocomoke Tax Account# 01-015923, Defendant. IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND Case No.: C-23-CV-26-000181

ORDER OF

PUBLICATION

The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property described below and located in Worcester County, sold by the Collector of Taxes for the County of Worcester and the State of Maryland to the Plaintiff in this proceeding: Account No. 01-015923, Property description: Lot 2 3267 St Ft 707 Clarke Ave Taylors Subdiv, Pocomoke. Deed Reference: 5792/459, Assessed to Jenkins Arnold, AK.A Arnold Jenkins, owned by Jenkins Arnold, AKA Arnold Jenkins. The Complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid.

It is, thereupon this 18th of June, 2026, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, ORDERED that notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this order in some newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County, Maryland once a week for three (3) successive weeks, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 23rd day of August, 2026, and redeem the property described above and answer the Complaint or thereafter a final judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property, and vesting in the Plaintiff title, free and clear of all encumbrances.

Brian D. Shockley Judge, Circuit Court for Worcester County True Copy Test: Susan A. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD

NOTICE

OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE

Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Class: "B" BEERWINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Lee Mark Nardyz, 41 Watergreen Lane, Ocean Pines, MD 21811; Susan Ann Nardyz, 41 Watergreen Lane, Ocean Pines, MD 21811.

For: Watergreen Key, LLC

For the premises known as and located at:

T/A: Brine Oyster Social 11310 Manklin Creek Road Ocean Pines, Maryland 21811

There will be a public hearing on the application at the Worcester County Government Center, Room 1102, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: July 15, 2026 @ 1:15 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.

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NOTICE

OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE

Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Transfer of a Class: "B" BEER-WINE License: 7 Day, By: Chatcha Phong Latkan, 38005 Bayview Circle W, Selbyville, DE 19975; Yi Kang Dong, 12551 Torquay Road, Ocean City, MD 21842.

For:NOKSUBMONGKHOL, LLC

For the premises known as and located at:

T/A: Thai-O-Cha 13727 Coastal Highway Ocean City, Maryland 21842

Formerly: Thai-O-Cha, LLC

T/A Thai-O-Cha

There will be a public hearing on the application at the Worcester County Government Center, Room 1102, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: July 15, 2026 @ 1:25 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.

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NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC

BEVERAGE LICENSE

Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Transfer of a Class: "B" BEER-WINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Spencer Ayres Cropper, 42 Watergreen Lane, Berlin, MD 21811; Joseph Gallagher Rattigan, 617 Quincy Lane, Wexford, PA 15090; Aaron Andrew Schroeder, 115 Lightfoot Lane, Dillsburg, PA 17019.

For: RRGC Restaurant, LLC

For the premises known as and located at:

T/A: Turn at River Run 11620 Masters Lane Berlin, Maryland 21811

Formerly: Kim Acton's Starr Restaurant

There will be a public hearing on the application at the Worcester County Government Center, Room 1102, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: July 15, 2026 @ 1:35 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.

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NOTICE

OF

APPLICATION

FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE

Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Promoter's License, By: Danielle Nauschuetz, 12514 Selsey Road, Ocean City, MD 21842; Hansen Foscolo, 12502 Selsey Road, Ocean City, MD 21842.

For: OC Rock and Ride, LLC

For the premises known as and located at:

T/A: OC Rock and Ride - (Ocean City Convention Center) Wednesday, September 9, 2026 to Saturday, September 12, 2026

Alcoholic Beverage Sale HoursBegins 10:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. each day

Sunday, September 13, 2026

Alcoholic Beverage Sale HoursBegins 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842

There will be a public hearing on the application at the Worcester County Government Center, Room 1102, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: July 15, 2026 @ 2:00 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.

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NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE

Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Promoter's License, By: Tyler R. Odachowski, 706 Edgewater Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842; Matthew Odachowski, 405 South Street, Key West, FL 33040. For: OC Rock and Ride, LLC

For the premises known as and located at:

T/A: OC Rock and Ride - (OC Inlet Parking Lot)

Wednesday, September 9, 2026 to Saturday, September 12, 2026

Alcoholic Beverage Sale Hours - Begins 1:00 p.m. until 10:30 p.m. each day

Ocean City Inlet Parking Lot

807 S. Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842

There will be a public hearing on the application at the Worcester County Government Center, Room 1102, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: July 15, 2026 @ 1:45 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.

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QUINN W MCGINNES

WILLIAMS MOORE, L.L.P.

12800 HOSPITALITY WAY

OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-9394

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of CHRISTINE HOPKINS Estate No. 21164 Notice is given that CHARLES R JOHNSON whose address is 44 SUGARLAND SQUARE CT STERLING, VA 20164-1639 was on JUNE 24, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of CHRISTINE HOPKINS who died on APRIL 29, 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 24th day of DECEMBER, 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 24th day of DECEMBER, 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-7/2/3t

JORHEA N. WRIGHT ESQ

ARMISTEAD, LEE, RUST & WRIGHT, P.A. 114 BAY STREET, BUILDING C EASTON, MD 21601

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of KATHY ANN ZEVE Estate No. 21169 Notice is given that DAVID C CORBIN whose address is 214 WEB FOOT LN STEVENSVILLE, MD 21666-2428 was on JUNE 25, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of KATHY ANN ZEVE who died

on JUNE 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 representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 25th day of DECEMBER, 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 25th day of DECEMBER, 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-7/2/3t

_________________________________ McCabe, Weisberg & Conway LLC 312 Marshall Avenue, Suite 800 Laurel, Maryland 20707 301-490-3361

Laura H.G. O’Sullivan, et al., Substitute Trustees Plaintiffs vs. Jason Coyman Defendant IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND Civil No. C-23-CV-25-000349

NOTICE

ORDERED, this 26th day of June, 2026 by the Circuit Court of WORCESTER COUNTY, Maryland, that the sale of the property at 160 Intrepid Lane, Unit 93, Berlin, Maryland 21811 mentioned in these proceedings, made and reported by Laura H.G. O’Sullivan, et. al, Substitute Trustees, be ratified and confirmed, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 27th day of July, 2026 next, provided a copy of this notice be inserted in some newspaper published in said County once in each of three successive weeks before the 20th day of July, 2026, next. The report states the amount of sale to be $248,788.00.

Susan R. Braniecki CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT

WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

True Copy

Test: Susan R. Braniecki

Clerk of the Circuit Court

Worcester County, MD

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INVITATION TO BID

TOWN OF SNOW HILL REQUEST FOR BIDS

NEW REAR LOADER REFUSE TRUCK

You are invited to bid on a New Rear Loader Refuse Truck for the Town of Snow Hill. The new truck will replace the existing New Way Cobra 11145C-08-12 that is currently inoperable and needs repair. The new truck will have a minimum 20 yard capacity, Automatic Transmission, Halogen work lights in hopper area, strobe light end of tailgate, safety shut down curb side, safety vision 5.5” black and white rear vision camera with audio, fire extinguisher 10 pound, triangle kit, driver alert buzzer curb side, full body weld inside vs. stitched, rear mud flaps, access door step ladder, 2 180 Rotary actuated cart tippers, with warranty. We are also looking for a value on the trade in of our current inoperable New Way Cobra serial # 11145C08-12 and seek to consider credit for this truck.

Bids must be on a lump sum basis with delivery due as soon as possible but not later than October 31, 2026. The Town of Snow Hill will receive sealed bids until 2:00 PM, July 24th, 2026, clearly marked “Garbage Truck Bid “at the Town of Snow Hill Municipal Building, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863. No electronic bids will be accepted. Bids received after this time will not be accepted. Bids will be opened publicly in Town Hall.

Additional details can be requested by contacting Town administration at adminco@snowhillmd.gov or Adminasst@snowhillmd.gov or calling 410-632-2080.

An invitation to bid, request for proposal, or other solicitation may be canceled, or any or all bids or proposals may be rejected in whole or part, as may be specified in the solicitation when it is in the best interest of the Town. The reasons shall be made part of the formal bid file.

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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of FRANCIS ANTHONY

PFEIFER SR Estate No. 18182 Notice is given that MICHAEL PFEIFER whose address is 62 BEECH HILL DR., NEWARK, DE

PUBLIC NOTICE

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

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

These three weeks of notification begins on DATE: 07/10/2026

AUTH: Raymond J Austin Chief of Police

19711-2950 was on JUNE 23, 2026

appointed Personal Representative of the estate of FRANCIS ANTHONY PFEIFER SR who died on JANUARY 27, 2020 with a will.

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

All 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 23rd day of DECEMBER, 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 23rd day of DECEMBER, 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-7/2/3t

Michelle Simon, Esq. 401 North Washington Street, Suite 445 Rockville, MD 20850

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

IN THE ESTATE OF: ROBERT C. MCCREADY JR. ESTATE NO. 21173

NOTICE OF JUDICIAL PROBATE

To all Persons Interested in the above estate:

You are hereby notified that a petition has been filed by Michelle Simon, Esq., 401 North Washington Street, Suite 445, Rockville, MD 20850 for the appointment of a personal representative. A hearing will be held at One W. Market Street, Court Room 4, Court House, Snow Hill, MD 21863 on September 01, 2026 at 10:00 a.m.

This hearing may be transferred or postponed to a subsequent time. Further information may be obtained by reviewing the estate file in

the office of the Register of Wills. Terri Westcott Register of Wills One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Phone: (410) 632-1529

Newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest

Publication Date: July 09, 2026 OCD-7/9/2t

RACHEL B. HARRIS ESQ. PO BOX 62 POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851-0062

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21150 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF STEVEN JOSEPH PRUITT Notice is given that Deborah Halter, 6270 Taylor Landing Rd., Girdletree, MD 21829-2806, was on July 01, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Steven Joseph Pruitt who died on June 06, 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 1st day of January, 2027.

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 1st day of January, 2027.

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

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

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

Deborah Halter

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: July 09, 2026

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JOHN SLATTERY

3923 PLYERS MILL RD., APT. 4 KENSINGTON, MD 20895-2000

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 21172

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF PATRICK WILLIAM SLATTERY

Notice is given that Christine Slattery, 92 Robin Hood Trl., Ocean Pines, MD 21811-1686, was on June 29, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Patrick William Slattery who died on May 04, 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 29th day of December, 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 29th day of December, 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.

Christine Slattery 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: July 09, 2026

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JAMES L. OTWAY, ESQ. PO BOX 446

SHARPTOWN, MD 21861-0446

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20858 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ARLENE OLIVE LINN

Notice is given that James R. Bergey Jr., 8938 Worcester Hwy., Berlin, MD 21811-3021; James L. Otway, PO Box 446, Sharptown, MD 21861-0446, was on June 29, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Arlene Olive Linn who died on August 26, 2025, with a will. There was a prior small estate proceeding.

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

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal rep-

resentative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 29th day of December, 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 29th day of December, 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.

James R. Bergey Jr. James L. Otway Personal Representatives True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: July 09, 2026

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TOWN OF OCEAN CITY NOTICE OF APPROVED CHARTER AMENDMENT RESOLUTION 2026-01

RE: Qualifications for Election as Mayor or City Councilman

Pursuant to §4-304(b) of the Local Government Article of the Maryland Annotated Code, Notice is hereby given by the Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, that subsequent to a public hearing and presentation held on Monday, July 6, 2026 at the 6:00 p.m. at City Hall, Charter Resolution 2026-01 was adopted by the Mayor and City Council of Ocean City. Summary of Charter Amendment Resolution 2026-01 is as follows: § C401, Qualifications for Election as Mayor and City Councilman: 1) amends the existing charter provisions by adding that a person shall not be deemed to satisfy the domicile requirements of the Charter where the person’s actual pattern of living demonstrates that another location constitutes his or her principal place of residence for substantial portions

of the year; and 2) adds that it is the intent of this section that any candidate for elected office and any elected official, maintains the Town as his/her true, fixed, principal residence. Mere technical compliance with the domiciliary requirements, without actual residency within the Town, is inconsistent with the purpose and the intent of this Charter Section. In determining whether a candidate or elected official satisfies the residency requirements of this section, all relevant facts and circumstances shall be considered, and no single factor shall be dispositive.

An exact copy of Charter Amendment Resolution 2026-01 is posted at City Hall, and available in the July 6, 2026, agenda packet online at oceancitymd.gov and can be obtained by contacting the City Clerk’s office at 410-289-8824.

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LAWS, INSLEY & BENSON, P.A. VICTOR H. LAWS, ESQ. 209 E. MAIN ST., P.O. BOX 75 SALISBURY, MD 21803-0075

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 21176

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Orphans court of Franklin County, Pennsylvania appointed (1) Amy K. Mahon-Stillwagon, 1070 Tallow Hill Rd., Chambersburg, PA 17202-9276; (2) Gary A. Mahon Jr., 1202 Tallow Hill Rd., Chambersburg, PA 172027626; (3) Kathy Donzella, 3455 Troon Dr., Chambersburg, PA 172028104 as the Executor of the Estate of Gary A. Mahon who died on July 06, 2026 domiciled in PA, USA.

The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is (1) Victor Laws, 202 E. Main St., Salisbury, MD 21803; (2) Victor Laws, 202 E. Main St., Salisbury, MD 21803; (3) Victor Laws, 202 E. Main St., Salisbury, MD 21803.

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) Amy K. Mahon-Stillwagon (2) Gary A. Mahon Jr. (3) Kathy Donzella 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:

July 9, 2026

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS

TOWN OF OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND

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

Thursday, July 23, 2026

AT 6:00 P.M.

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(1), Powers of the Code, an application has been filed to appeal the zoning determination dated April 9, 2026, which states that the requested amendment to Permit 251995 is denied because the second floor of the dwelling is defined as and is subject to the requirements of a habitable attic under Section 110-2 of the Ocean City Code. The Property is described as Lot 977, Section 5B, of the Montego Bay Mobile Home Park Plat. It is further described as being on the north side of Sea Lane and is locally known as 103 Sea Lane in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: QUINN MCGINNES, ESQ. FOR JAMES E. LARUE, INC. (BZA 2740, #2609300001) AT 6:15 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(1), Powers of the Code, an application has been filed to appeal the zoning determination dated May 29, 2026, which states that the indoor mushroom cultivation operation taking place on the premises does not qualify as a permitted home occupation that is defined under Section 110-908 of the Ocean City Code. The Property is described as Lot 16, Block 25, Section 5, of the Caine Woods Plat. It is further described as being located on the northeast corner of Sailing Road and 141st Street and is locally known as 602 141st Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: MOURNING WOOD MUSHROOMS, LLC C/O ANDREA DAVIS (BZA 2747, #2609300002)

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

Christopher Rudolf, Chairman Maureen Howarth, Attorney OCD-7/9/2t

Proposed cannabis shop advances

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(July 10, 2026) Pocomoke City’s Board of Zoning Appeals has cleared a zoning request for a proposed cannabis dispensary on the site of a vacant former restaurant.

The board voted 3-1 on July 1 to waive a distance requirement for Summit Wellness Guru Ventures Inc., which wants to open a cannabis dispensary at 1621 Ocean Highway, the former Plaza Tapatia restaurant property. If its plan succeeds, the company would be opening the county’s third dispensary.

Measured by property lines, the site is about 325 feet from New Beginnings Outreach Ministries, a house of worship on Ocean Highway. Pocomoke City has a 500foot separation requirement for cannabis businesses near churches, schools, childcare centers, playgrounds and parks.

Planning Director Kristen Tremblay told the board its task was limited to whether that separation distance should be waived. Votes to approve came from board chair Kelly Miller and members David Strauss and Marcus Collins. Tommy Gladding voted no.

In discussion, Collins said he wanted to hear more from a church representative. Board chair Miller noted that the meeting had been well-advertised and it was the second time the board had publicly considered the topic.

A representative for the church, Bishop Craig Collins, did attend the meeting but did not speak and departed early, town officials noted.

The waiver does not mean the dispensary can open yet. The project still must go through site plan review before the town’s planning commission and town council, followed by building permits.

Planners still must review civil engineering documents, parking plans, light-

ing, landscaping, handicap access, fencing, trash handling and other site details.

Tremblay said the planning commission is not likely to hear the case until late August, and only if the applicant submits the required paperwork.

Shreif Shata of Columbia, Maryland, holds Worcester County’s only conditional cannabis dispensary license, according to Maryland Cannabis Administration records. Shata, who is affiliated with the applicant Guru Ventures, said the conditional license expires Aug. 7.

Guru Ventures CEO Kal Shah told the zoning board he hopes the facility can be up and running by the start of 2027, and that they estimate hiring locally for 20 to 30 full-time jobs.

Worcester County’s two existing dispensaries are located in West Ocean City. If the Pocomoke project advances, it would mark the first licensed dispensary on the southern end of the county. Statewide, there are 117 licensed dispensaries open.

Several speakers at the zoning meeting urged the board to slow down or reject the request, citing concerns about the site, the lack of a proposed layout available for public review, and the broader effect of cannabis sales in the community.

Lynn Duffy, a drug counselor, said she’s concerned that adults would buy cannabis legally and then hand off cannabis products to children. She called it “the No. 1 issue” on the southern end of Worcester County.

“There’s no guarantee a child’s not gonna get it,” she said. “We do have a problem in this community with alcohol and drugs, whether it’s bought from a gas station, what have you, or if it’s bought from a dispensary.”

Duffy also raised concerns about customers using cannabis in the parking lot or while driving away from the property.

County Commissioner Caryn Abbott, whose District 1 includes Pocomoke City, questioned whether a dispensary represented the best long-term use of the parcel.

“From a planning perspective, the key question isn’t simply should there be a dispensary, it is this the right location for this use given the long-term vision for the area?” Abbott said. “We need to have smart, strategic growth – not approving simply to approve.”

Abbott also suggested a different location for the dispensary, a former Ruby Tuesday, because it would not affect any adjacent churches. That restaurant along Route 13 closed last November and is for sale.

The applicant did consider multiple commercial properties in the area, including that Ruby Tuesday, with an eye toward a building that could accommodate present parking and future growth, according to Brandon Ziska, a real estate agent working with the applicant.

“Some of the other competing options are just too small,” he told the zoning board. “There’s a lot of vacancy in Pocomoke and there are some options, but it doesn’t really suit the needs that he has.”

Ziska also told the town that the applicants have a letter of intent to enter into a contract of sale with property owner Tres Tacuaches LLC.

That company has no involvement in the dispensary proposal, according to Ramiro Herrera, a partner in the company.

He told OC Today-Dispatch that the applicants had approached him recently with an offer to buy the property. He also said his company had never owned or operated Plaza Tapatia, instead serving only as a landlord to the shuttered restaurant.

Commissioners reject Pocomoke solar farm

Proposal may still advance through Maryland review despite county’s opposition

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(July 10, 2026) The Worcester County Commissioners on Tuesday unanimously opposed a proposed solar project on a 54-acre property outside Pocomoke City, rejecting a developer’s request for local support before the applicant could make a presentation.

Commissioner Caryn Abbott, whose District 1 encompasses the project site, made the motion to oppose the project and reject a favorable county review, citing the amount of land it would consume. The motion passed 7-0 with no discussion.

“I don’t know if the other commissioners are aware,” Abbott said, “our growth area there is right across the street. We have four solar farms within a two-mile radius. This would be a fifth. Obviously, it does affect property values, and it will affect attracting people to the area.”

The 4.95-megawatt utility-scale solar project is being proposed for 1521 Old Virginia Road. Solar panels would occupy about 20 acres on the property. Internal county documents

show Atwell LLC, on behalf of Clean Capital LLC, has been pursuing state certification for the project since January 2024.

The project may still continue because Maryland counties do not have final approval authority over solar projects larger than 2 megawatts under state regulations.

But the commissioners did reject the applicant’s request to reduce a required 100-foot setback to 35 feet.

If the developer modifies plans to address the setback, they can still move forward with the state review, and then local site plan review, according to Jennifer Keener, the county’s director of Development Review and Permitting.

needed the setback modification or a revised panel layout to meet state siting standards, Keener also said.

It’s typical for solar developers to personally address the commissioners when asking for local support. But when civil engineer John Gonzalez stood to speak and introduce himself Tuesday, he was cut off by the commissioners, because Abbott’s motion was already on the floor.

‘Why in the world would you turn over all your industrial land for solar panels? It makes no sense. To occupy that with solar panels – that, dollar-for-dollar, brings no revenue to the county at all – is just not good government,.’

Commissioner Eric Fiori

A staff report says the project would be on existing tilled agricultural land, with no proposed impacts to forested areas or non-tidal wetlands.

County staff found the project to be generally consistent with the county’s comprehensive plan and zoning ordinance, but said it either

13700 Coastal Hwy #202, Ocean City

Friday 1-3pm 13307 Wight Street #101, Ocean City

Saturday 10:30am-12:30pm 13307 Wight Street #101, Ocean City 1BR/1BA

Saturday 11am-1pm 12414 Sea Oaks Lane, Unit 3, Berlin 3BR/3.5BA

Saturday 11am-1pm 20 Fishing Creek Lane #20, Ocean Pines 4BR/3BA

Saturday 11am-1pm 843 Yacht Club Drive, Ocean Pines 3BR/2.5BA

Saturday 11am-1pm 75 King Richard Road, Ocean Pines 4BR/3.5BA

Saturday 11am-1pm 58 Hingham Lane, Ocean Pines 4BR/2.5BA

Saturday 11am-1pm 9167 Old Ocean City Rd, Berlin 4BR/2BA

Sat & Sun 11am-3pm 12430 Old Bridge Rd., West OC 2BR/2BA

Saturday Noon-2 pm 12021 River Run Lane, Berlin 5BR/3.5 BA

Saturday 1-3pm 12301 Jamaica Ave #351N, Ocean City 2BR/2BA

Saturday 2-4pm 17 Sundial Circle, Ocean Pines 3BR/2BA

Sunday 11am-1pm 10 135th Street #106, Ocean City 2BR/2BA

Sunday 11:30am-1pm

Monday 11:30am-1:30pm 12971 Inlet Isle Lane, Ocean City 5BR/5BA

Monday

Wednesday 11:30am-1:30pm 12301 Jamaica Ave, 351N, Ocean City 2BR/2BA

Wednesday 2-4pm 6201 Coastal Hwy #806, Ocean City 4BR/3BA

affect my district and affects another district. I voted with her.”

The site is zoned as I-1 Light Industrial, where utility-scale solar projects are permitted by right, according to county staff.

Commissioner Eric Fiori (District 3, West Ocean City) said he voted against the solar farm because the county has very limited industrial land.

“There’s no need to make a presentation now,” Commissioners President Ted Elder (District 4, Western) said after the 7-0 vote.

Gonzalez had no comment after his appearance.

When the commissioners were asked at the close of the meeting why their vote to reject included zero discussion, Commissioner Joe Mitrecic (District 7, Ocean City) said it’s common to defer to his peers on districtspecific matters.

“I think that the commissioner from Pocomoke explained it before we had the vote and the motion,” he said. “For me personally, it’s a vote for, you know, something that doesn’t

July 9 - July 16

“Why in the world would you turn over all your industrial land for solar panels? It makes no sense. To occupy that with solar panels – that, dollarfor-dollar, brings no revenue to the county at all – is just not good government,” he said after the meeting.

Keener said concept plans for utility-scale solar projects first go before the commissioners for support or opposition, then they follow a site plan review process before two planning boards. Larger projects are preempted by state regulations and do not require commissioner review.

In the last two years, five solar farm applicants – two small projects and three large ones – have been heard by the county’s planning commission. Seven made it to a vote before the commissioners, and three were approved. Six solar farms are still in the planning process, according to Keener.

Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty

Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty

Lauren Bunting/Keller Williams Realty

Debbie Bennington/BHHS PenFed Realty

Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty

Power of 2 Team/Hileman Real Estate

Power of 2 Team/Hileman Real Estate

Shelly Wilson/Salt Life Community

Sandra Dougan/BHHS PenFed Realty

Pre-K costs shock commissioners

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(July 10, 2026) Worcester County officials this week said they were blindsided by a bill from the state for more than $400,000 for private pre-K costs under Maryland’s Blueprint education reform law.

“This has been thrown on us, and we didn’t know this was coming,”

Commissioner Joe Mitrecic said at Tuesday’s meeting.

Internal county documents show the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) invoiced Worcester County $406,662.90 for its share of providing private pre-kindergarten services during the 2024-25 school year.

The March 12 invoice, prepared by MSDE’s Division of Early Childhood, lists the charge as “Thirty-Five (35) Tier I Students at $11,618.94 each” and gives the county until March 2027 to pay.

An accompanying student list identifies CMA Kids and Berlin Education Station as the providers and lists Worcester County as both the program county and county of residence for all 35 students.

Under the Blueprint, the state’s sweeping 2021 education reform package, counties are now expected to help pay for eligible private pre-K students who live within their borders.

The law expands publicly funded pre-K through both public schools and approved private providers, among other changes.

At the meeting, Mitrecic (District 7, Ocean City) wanted to know how many schools qualify for funding, and how many students each facility will accommodate, so the cost becomes clearer “and we’re not sitting here with our mouths agape,” he said.

Commissioner Chip Bertino stressed that officials would need verification that all 35 students are Worcester County residents – a key factor in how the state calculated the bill.

He also noted that the invoice won’t come due until next March, giving them time to ask questions before writing a check.

“We don’t have a decision to make right now,” said Bertino (District 5, Ocean Pines). “Just to pay this without that sort of information is not in our best interest.”

The county had not budgeted for the expense because information provided by MSDE last fall showed no balance due, according to Budget Of-

ficer Kim Reynolds.

But state officials later said the bill would be based upon which children actually used the private pre-K seats, and where those children live. Since MSDE listed 35 students as Worcester County residents, Worcester received the bill.

Officials also said there was early confusion over the payment pipeline: whether Worcester would pay the Board of Education, which would then pay private providers, or whether the county would pay MSDE directly.

Staff said MSDE later clarified that counties would pay the state, and the state would pay the private pre-K providers.

That left commissioners questioning not only the current invoice, but how large the county’s future obligation could become as private pre-K expands under the Blueprint.

Deputy County Administrator Candace Savage said the invoiced charge is tied to the Blueprint’s universal pre-K rollout, with early implementation based on a cost split between the state and counties.

She said the initial implementation involved a 50-50 split, though commissioners questioned whether the county’s $11,618.94 per-student charge represented half the total cost.

ESTATE MARKETPLACE

Commissioners ultimately held off on paying the bill and asked staff to gather more information before taking any action.

Mitrecic restated his motion to seek details on which private schools qualify, how many students they can accommodate, whether the listed students are Worcester County residents, and what the county could expect to pay in future years.

He also asked that directors or headmasters of childcare facilities come before the commissioners to

answer questions. The board approved the motion 5-2.

Mitrecic added that he wants to assign someone the job of keeping tabs on the Blueprint from now on and alerting commissioners to any changes.

Commissioners President Ted Elder said the county needs more information before money changes hands.

“It’s the county taxpayers’ money,” said Elder (District 4, Western). “We need to know what the checks are on this.”

First-time homebuyers still squeezed out by the market

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer

(July 10, 2026) Home buyers ages 27-45 made up just 26% of all buyers, according to the 2026 Home Buyers and Sellers Generational Trends Report produced since 2013 by The National Association of REALTORS. That’s down from 29% the year before. This signals that Millennials’ share of the housing market is shrinking instead of hitting their peak homebuying years. Instead of becoming homebuyers, many are stuck waiting, saving or sitting on the sidelines for various financial and socioeconomic reasons.

The report also noted that older Millennials, in their 30s and 40s, are more established, earning more, and finally getting some return on decisions they made earlier.

With the highest median household income of any generation ($132,700), fewer first time buyers (just 33%), and more dual income households, they’re using built up equity to trade up. Twenty- one percent say their main reason for buying was simply wanting more space, the highest of any generation. With a third raising kids and 14% living in multigenerational homes, square footage isn’t necessarily a luxury—for some it’s a necessity.

Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record with Keller Williams Realty of Delmarva in Ocean City.

Data from NAR’s Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers explains that younger Millennials, in particular, are feeling the squeeze. This is the group that should be buying their first homes, but affordability and low inventory keep moving the goalposts. Data from NAR’s report showed how, for decades, first-time buyers typically bought between ages 29 and 33. That timeline snapped in 2021, when the median age jumped to 36, and has since climbed to a record 40. By 2025, Younger Millennials accounted for only 11% of home buyers, and while 60% were first-time buyers, that figure fell sharply from 71% the year before. NAR’s translation: First-time buyers aren’t just delayed; they’re being squeezed out.

Acadia Landing LEWES, DE

Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Mid $400s

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Coming Soon Single Family Homes

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Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Low $500s

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Now Selling Single Family Homes and Villas from the Upper $300s

Maaryland Delaware

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Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Upper $400s

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Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Low $400s

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Now Selling–Phase II Single Family Homes from the Mid $300s

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Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Low $400s

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MILLSBORO, DE

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‘Colorful’ sign deemed too much

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(July 10, 2026) The Berlin Historic District Commission unanimously approved revised signage for a new downtown business after owners agreed to tone down the original exterior design.

The commission voted last week to approve signage and door graphics for the art studio Colorful Encounters, located at 18 Williams St., following revisions made in response to commissioners’ concerns raised during a previous meeting.

Owner Michael McClimans said the business replaced its originally proposed colorful hanging sign with a more traditional black-and-white version featuring an old-fashioned design.

“We modified the front because the colorful sign we had for our logo wasn’t acceptable,” McClimans said.

“I designed one that is old fashioned.”

Commissioner Mary Moore praised the revised hanging sign.

“It really pops,” Moore said. “Something about white on black, it really gets your attention and it’s quite nice.”

McClimans said the perpendicular hanging sign will be mounted approximately nine feet above the sidewalk, providing more than the required seven feet of clearance. The commission chair Norman Bunting reminded the applicant that an existing open flag sign would also need to meet the seven-foot clearance requirement.

While commissioners were pleased with the updated hanging sign, discussion shifted to graphics proposed for the front door.

Moore expressed concern that the colorful logo, multiple fonts, and script lettering for the business hours created

a cluttered appearance that conflicted with Berlin’s historic character.

“My personal opinion … I never want to see, anywhere in Berlin … when I get into a lot of colors, I get Disney in my mind,” Moore said. “I’m not crazy about the door. The door is your statement.”

Commissioner Lisa Doyle asked whether the hours of operation could be displayed in the same font used for the business logo instead of cursive lettering.

McClimans said a change could be made to adjust the cursive hours of operations to a more standard block lettering design.

“I do think they have made considerable compromises,” Commissioner Laura Stearns said, adding that she hoped the new business would be successful. “It’s a nice addition to the town.”

Questions raised for certain police dept. expenditures

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(July 9, 2026) The Ocean Pines Association Budget and Finance Committee is seeking additional information on several financial variances spotted during its review of the April and May financial reports.

The variances included higher police expenditures and differences in overall operating costs.

During the committee’s meeting last week, discussed some items they believe require follow-up with Ocean Pines staff as the fiscal year progresses.

Following additional discussion, commissioners agreed matching block lettering would create a cleaner appearance.

The commission approved the application with the condition that the hours of operation use block lettering matching the logo font, while also approving the hanging sign, door graphics, and flag sign as presented.

The motion passed unanimously.

Committee member Colette Horn asked why, per the April report, yearto-date police expenditures appeared noticeably higher than they were at the same point last year.

For the law enforcement agency, this year’s year-to-date operating expense totaled $1.73 million versus $1.54 million last year.

Colorful Encounters is a new downtown Berlin art studio that opened this spring, offering patrons artistic workshops and experiences.

Budget and Finance Committee Chairman Doug Parks noted that while the difference amounted to less than $200,000, he agreed the com-

OPA beach parking revenue down

mittee should seek additional information from the community’s finance department.

“The question would be are there any factors that contributed to that,” Parks said. “I’m wondering if maybe the answer would be, were there any open positions that hadn’t been filled? I suspect that’s the case.”

Horn added that she believed the difference was significant enough to justify seeking additional explanation from OPA staff.

The committee also discussed a roughly $550,000 difference in yearto-date net operating results between this year’s and last year’s reports.

“I think it’s worth taking a look at,” Horn said.

Parks cautioned that comparisons between different fiscal years are not always straightforward because each annual budget reflects changing priorities and spending plans.

“Every budget is a little bit different,” Parks said. “We’re not just rubber stamping and doing the exact same thing every year.”

He noted that changes in capital projects or other planned expenditures can affect year-over-year operating results.

“There might be an absolute reasoning behind a $400,000 difference in net operating because the whole

budget was different,” Parks said. “We had to fix something or augment something, hence the changes.”

Later during the meeting, the committee shifted its discussion to the May financial results.

Parks noted that OPA General Manager John Viola had already reported that the association finished May approximately $9,000 behind budget. However, he said the figure is nothing to worry about this early in the season.

“In the month of May, it’s basically insignificant,” Parks said.

He also pointed out that operating expenses were nearly $70,000 below budget during the month.

“Is that a timing issue?” Parks asked. “Waiting for something and haven’t been billed yet?”

Meanwhile, maintenance expenses exceeded budget by approximately $18,000, which Parks attributed to seasonal work.

“We’re in month one,” he said. “It’s just not that significant.”

The committee also reviewed beach parking revenues, which were down roughly $30,000 compared to budget. Parks suggested the lower revenue likely reflects the timing of pass purchases early in the summer season.

“It’s early in the season,” he said.

“People may not have purchased them yet.”

Committee members also discussed marina operations, noting that fluctuating fuel prices may be affecting boating activity.

“How many folks are boating less because of gas [prices]?” Parks asked. “Instead of going out on a boat every weekend, you’re only doing it twice a month?”

Looking ahead, Parks said he would like additional information regarding homeowners’ annual assessment payments, including what percentage of assessments have already been collected and how many property owners are using payment plans.

“I remember this was right after COVID and when I was treasurer I kept track of the percentage of assessments that were paid,” Parks said. “We were consistently at a 98% collection rate, which is really, really good.”

Horn noted that assessment collections this year could reflect current economic conditions.

“It’s going to be a reflection of the economy,” she said.

The committee plans to forward observations to the OPA Board of Directors as preparations begin for next year’s budget.

Dining Guide

■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$

■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted

DOWNTOWN

South end to 28th Street

■ BUXY’S SALTY DOG SALOON

DRY DOCK 28

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

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

■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

American style local restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 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.

■ FISH TALES

2107 Herring Way, Ocean City, 410-2890990, ocfishtales.com

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

menus offer enough of a variety to meet all needs.

■ HARBOR WATCH

806 S. Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City 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 every day, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. 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.

■ THE WEDGE BAR

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

$-$$ | Full bar

Panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, bay and Assateague Island. Enjoy small plates, sandwiches and grilled burgers. Open every day, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

MIDTOWN 29th to 90th streets

■ 32 PALM

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ THE BONFIRE

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

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

■ COCONUTS BEACH BAR & GRILL

3701 Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 410-2896846, castleinthesand.com

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

■ FAGERS ISLAND

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

$$ | Full bar

Dine on the island with an award-winning bayfront restaurant featuring American & Regional dining with a global influence and popular destination featuring impeccably prepared American and Pacific Rim cuisine. Also enjoy our outdoor decks and bar with live entertainment and 32 wines by the glass. A place where the joy of food & the presence of the table are of utmost importance. Dine on fresh seafood and our fa-

mous 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.

■ 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.

■ 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.

FENWICK ISLAND

■ DIRTY HARRY’S

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

$ | Kids’ Menu | Full bar

Don’t let the name fool you, the food is home cooking at its finest. Owned and operated by Ginny Swann and family for 20 years. Voted Best Top 5 Bakeries in Delaware. 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 Rte. 54, Fenwick Island, Del., 302-4362305, twiningshanty.com

Reservations | Kids’ Menu

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

WEST OCEAN CITY

■ ASSATEAGUE BAR AND GRILL

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

$$ | Full bar

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

■ BREAKFAST CAFE

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

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

■ CANTINA LOS AGAVES MEXICAN GRILL 12720 Ocean Gateway #7, West Ocean City 410-390-3914, cantinalosagaves.com

$$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar

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

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

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

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

$$ | Kids’ menu Family owned for over 25 years. Serving the best homemade food. Local’s favorite. Breakfast served all day. Kids’ menu. Dine-in and Carry-out. Open 7 days a week.

City Council moves forward with public works initiatives

Future bond proceeds will reimburse project’s design work and engineering costs

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 10, 2026) Ocean City officials are moving forward with two public works projects, with costs for upcoming engineering and design work to be reimbursed through a future bond sale.

On Monday, the City Council passed a resolution declaring its intent to reimburse up to $3.65 million the city plans to expend for projects at both the solid waste transfer station and the city’s water treatment plant. The funding will be reimbursed through a bond sale scheduled to take place this fall.

“This is the transfer station renovation design cost and the water plant improvement construction cost,” City Solicitor Heather Stansbury told council members this week.

Officials report the $3.65 million will be used to advance two projects within the public works department. An estimated $30,000 will be used to cover engineering and design fees for the renovation of the solid waste transfer station, while the remaining $3.62 million would cover engineering, design and construction costs for multiple capital improvements and upgrades at the water treatment plant.

Officials say the plan is to begin design work on transfer station renovations this summer, with the project to be bid out and construction costs to be included in the bond issuance this fall. The estimated $1.2 million project will include roof repairs, overhead door replacements, steel structure reinforcement and more.

“Due to the age of selective parts of the transfer station receiving area plus the toxic liquid formed by solid waste has caused degradation to parts of the steel structure,” the improvement plan reads. “These structural members need reinforcement or repair.”

The city’s capital improvement plan also includes $3.62 million for water plant improvements. Those include new windows and metal doors at the 14th Street plant, a new generator and day tank at the 44th Street plant, and the recoating of a chlorine scrubber system at the Gorman Avenue plant, to name a few.

“Gorman Avenue Water Treatment Plant Chlorine Scrubber is a system that removes or neutralizes hazardous chlorine gas from industrial air streams through a chemical reaction,” the improvement plan reads. “The tank interior has broken down over the years due to its exposure and needs recoating to reinforce its structure.”

by Steve Green

The Adventures of Fatherhood

(The following is a reprint from June of 2022.)

The best part of Facebook for me is the “Memories.”

I have found myself actually posting pictures just to memorialize them for years to come. This way each year on the anniversary date of the post, or event, I can relive that part of my life. It’s especially the case with my kids.

Over the last week, I have noticed my wife and I are active posters this time of year, as each daily reminder from Facebook (still can’t bring myself to call it Meta yet) consists of great memories of years gone by. It’s largely due to the end of school year pictures and Father’s Day. These are great to revisit but it’s also just the mundane pictures that are special.

Maybe it’s just me but a highlight of each of my days is when I get the notification memories are available. One day this week included a photo of Beckett on the beach when he was just learning to walk, Carson on my shoulders in the breaking waves before he could walk, lovely words from my wife on Father’s Day, rainy day milkshake runs, last day of fourth and second grade pictures for both boys and a photo of Pam and me sitting on the beach on the Assateague OSV as the kids napped in my old truck watching a Baby Einstein video.

The last one was how we spent an entire summer when the kids were young and still napping. I will forever remember the afternoon nap as joyous times for us, as we got to relax and not worry about sand being eaten or thrown, mad dashes to the ocean without a care in the world or sunscreen applications. If memory serves me correctly, one of us always dozed off during that downtime.

enjoy my job as a newspaper editor for several reasons, but near the top of the list is that each day is different.

Though I start my day around the same time and work in the same space, each day poses new challenges to make each one unique. All of this combines to make each newspaper edition special and different.

In that regard, my work life mirrors my personal life because of parenting. We all wake up in the same house as the same people, but much happens throughout the course of a day. Another commonality between the two is they each involve a routine – most of the time. This summer would be the exception on the family front with Beckett.

There were a couple times this week when I was scheduling a meeting or appointment and had to remember Beckett’s work schedule transportation. It’s a new thing, as this is our 14-year-old’s first summer working. He’s working two days a week at the Surfside Rooster in West Ocean City and more regularly at The Kite Loft in Ocean City as a flyer on the beach. When I ask him what he does, he says he sets up kites, makes sure they are not lying on the beach and gets them back in the air when they are not.

A real positive with him working in Ocean City is it gets me in town a lot more than most summers. Now I plan Boardwalk walks and runs and ocean sessions around drop-offs and pickups. I also get to people watch and get a sense for how the resort is doing on the tourism front.

On a recent Thursday night, I went into Ocean City to pick him up as he was closing that night. It was his first night shift, and I thoroughly enjoyed seeing him take orders from the more senior employee. He was hustling, running kites back and forth from the beach to storage and learning how to take down 10-plus flags in front of the store. I texted Pam that I had never seen him work so hard. It was great to observe. I really enjoyed it.

I mean I really enjoyed watching him work, probably too much. I took

pictures and videos as proof he can move fast and do what he’s told. It’s just that I have spent much of his life reminding him to do this or that, particularly getting him moving and ready in the mornings. It was amazing to watch him carry out his duties, presumably following the orders of the more senior co-worker.

Having a worker in the house is a big change for us. His work schedule is one thing but also his desire to hang out on the Boardwalk before or after his shift. It’s been a fun experience so far, but no denying there’s running involved for Pam and me. We are happy to provide the shuttle service for work but not so much repeatedly when it involves social outings.

“But everybody is hanging out on the Boardwalk and at the beach in Ocean City,” is the statement we hear a lot these days. We know full well “everybody” is not, but it’s the way teens look at these sorts of things. For our kid, it’s an independence thing as well. He wants to be able to go off on his own and prove to us he will be safe and not make bad decisions. This will be most likely be a summerlong juggle.

One thing he did quickly agree we were right on was his lunch when he works on the Boardwalk. He learned quickly eating lunch on the boards during his break every day will get quite expensive. For the first couple days, he asked for money. I gave him some cash, but then encouraged him to bring lunch to save money. He refused and used his own earnings to buy lunch. When he realized $20 didn’t get him as far as he would like, he agreed eventually, “ok yeah I think we should pack” for a few days.

Lessons are being learned this summer.

(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.)

Memories of first waves on boogie boards, surf mats

By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer

(July 10, 2026) A recent column/article concerned the many different ways in which one could ride waves or go surfing. Traditionally the wave rider or surfer would be riding waves relatively close to the shoreline either in a stand-up, prone, or kneeling position.

The rider would utilize various boards even to the point of using one’s body as in body surfing. Body boards, as they’ve come to be known, were introduced as boogie boards by surfer, inventor Tom Morey. Bodyboarding would even serve as a great introduction for the more “regular” sport of stand-up surfing. Boogie boards were first available in the mid1970’s.

But what came before Tom Morey’s brainchild? The answer is surf mats. Surf mats were much more stout and heavy, made of canvas with a rubber covering on each end, they were roughly four feet long, two feet wide and not at all flimsy like a pool raft. Surf mats were inflated and could be pumped up to create a relatively hard vehicle.

To be clear, the term should not be confused with a beach blanket. Back in the day and even to this day “beach stands” would have equipment such as umbrellas and yes, surf mats, which could be rented, though body boards have pretty much replaced surf mats.

Still, I’m sure surf mats can still be found. As for me, and many others, riding a wave on a surf mat was my first “surfing experience.”

One more notable factor is the usage of fins on one’s feet. Whether body surfing, boogie boarding, or even just swimming, “fins on your feet” can make all the difference in the water.

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

vanishing vanishing OCEAN CITY

WitH Bunk Mann

Surfing became popular during the sixties in Ocean City. Fueled by a wave of popular music by artists such as Jan and Dean and the Beachboys and the movie “The Endless Summer” it was hard to find a stretch of beach that was not packed with surfers.

Friction between the hotel owners and young surfers was an ongoing occurrence and as a result the city made the downtown beaches off-limits to surfers while the lifeguards were on duty in the daytime. Surfers ended up in the then mostly vacant areas of the northern part of town above 75th Street.

Ocean City’s first surf shop, the Eastern Surfer, opened in the basement of the Sandy Hill Motel on 17th Street in 1964 and was quickly followed by over a dozen more in the following decade. Surfing was here to stay in Ocean City.

To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com. Photo of the Sunshine House courtesy of Chauncey Rhodes

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

Three-day weekends

Drama-free days

A lab’s love of the ocean

Cold fruit on the beach

Hearing giggles from my kid’s room

Freshly mulched flower beds

Squirrel-resistant bird feeders

Sock-free weekends

A cold drink from the bottom of a cooler

Night pool dips

Poke tuna nachos

Ribs with sweet, spicy plum sauce

By Deborah Lee Walker

Contributing Writer

Summer is officially here, and what style of cooking takes top honors? If you guessed grilling, you are correct.

Hamburgers, hot dogs, and chicken are popular choices, but tangy, meaty ribs also rank as a favorite.

Supermarkets are filled with seasoned, packaged ribs for the taking. While they are very convenient and save you time, there is nothing better than homemade, lipsmacking ribs.

Peach chipotle and apple butter are my two favorite sauces. Fresh peaches combined with smokey, spicy chipotle is a combination of the extremes that fuses sweetness with smokiness for a combination that is hard to beat.

Homemade apple butter allows the theme of ribs to continue throughout the colder months with a twist on the classic recipes.

However, a sweet and spicy plum sauce is absolutely delicious and hits notes of flavor that are not usually associated with barbequed ribs. Before

we enter the kitchen of specifics, let us briefly review some basic tips on how to prepare barbeque ribs.

First and foremost, baby back ribs are the best. They are sweeter, the most tender, and the fastest-cooking cut of pork ribs available. Because they are cut closer to the loin, the meat is incredibly soft and lacks the heavy cartilage and excess fat found in spare ribs.

Sometimes you will find a thin, papery membrane on the back of the ribs. You will want to remover this for a few reasons. First and foremost, it is tough and simply not desirable. Second, it impedes the absorption of the spices and flavors. Your preparations and efforts will be nullified by one simple ingredient.

Great ribs are made by applying multiple layers of flavor. For example, you can brine them, simmer in aromatics and stock, apply a spice rub, and finalize with a glaze.

If you want to brine your ribs before cooking, following is a basic recipe. One cup of kosher salt, onehalf cup of granulated sugar, four quarts of cold water for four pounds of ribs.

In a large stock or plastic container, dissolve the salt and sugar in

the cold water. Submerge the ribs in the brine and place the container in the refrigerator for at least twelve hours. Rinse well and pat dry with paper towels.

Simmering the ribs in chicken stock and aromatics adds flavor and ensures tenderness that is imperative for mouth-watering ribs.

There are some barbeque connoisseurs that will only consider a spice rub. So many possibilities which seasons the pot with creativity and options.

Perfect grilled ribs consist of tender meat with a nice bark on the edge and a sauce that is sweet, savory, and spicy. The sauce must compliment the meat for a balanced bite.

A sweet, spicy plum sauce is just that. The plums give the sauce unique undertones and brightness. Ginger, molasses, and soy sauce take the sauce in a direction that is not typical for American barbequed ribs.

In closing, if you are a fan of barbequed ribs, you might want to consider giving sweet, spicy plum sauce a try. Who knows, it might become your new go to barbeque sauce. Enjoy!

Sweet, Spicy Plum Sauce

3 tablespoons canola oil

2 ½ cups chopped plums, including the skin

1 cup yellow onions, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup water

2 tablespoons soy sauce

½ cup balsamic vinegar

1 cup ketchup

¼ cup molasses

¼ cup honey

1 ½ tablespoons chili powder

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

2 teaspoons ground ginger

2 teaspoons favorite hot sauce or hot

Chinese oil

¼ cup dark brown sugar, packed

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1. In a large pot, saute onions and garlic in canola oil over medium heat until translucent.

See BARBEQUED Page 77

Opinions

It’s

how you say it

Pick a lede sentence for a Fourth of July weekend roundup:

1.Eighty-eight people were arrested over the July 4 holiday weekend in Ocean City, as local, county, and state law enforcement personnel mounted a coordinated effort to keep a crowd of more than 200,000 visitors under control.

2.With well over 200,000 visitors in town for the Fourth of July holiday weekend in Ocean City, the coordinated peacekeeping efforts of local, county, and state police resulted in an arrest rate of less than 0.05%.

Both sentences are accurate descriptions of law enforcement’s actions this past weekend, according to Ocean City Police Department statistics. Even though the first sentence sounds significantly worse than the second, it proves a larger point: it is not what you say, but how you say it.

Ocean City government officials, of course, would prefer not to talk about arrest rates and crime at all — as if ignoring these issues somehow makes them disappear. But these days, with so many people (inexplicably) documenting their lives and personal experiences on social media, dancing around the facts no longer works. Besides, with so many ways to frame the same data, there is no good reason to avoid communicating uncomfortable truths.

For instance, it does not sound good to report that police calls for service on July 4 were up 21% from last year. However, a “call for service” is just another way to say, "police response." Many of these responses are initiated by the officers themselves. Consider also that the number of sworn officers on duty in Ocean City at one point last weekend was up by more than 80%. In other words: more cops, more calls for service.

The worst thing any entity can do when trying to protect its image is to be obvious about it. When such efforts become transparent, people become more suspicious of what is not being said, and they will actively look for trouble to prove their point.

As it stands, hosting a couple hundred thousand people with zero violent crime is a massive success. And that remains true, no matter how you say it.

OC Today-Dispatch

Stubbornly local, equally independent

NEWS

EDITOR STEWART DOBSON; EXECUTIVE EDITOR STEVE GREEN; ASSOCIATE EDITOR BETHANY HOOPER; STAFF WRITERS TARA FISCHER, BRIAN SHANE

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OC Today-Dispatch is published Fridays by FLAG Publications, Inc. 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 410-723-6397 All content copyright 2026

Congrats Tay & Trav

Dear Tay and Trav, Is it OK if I call you that or would you prefer Taylor and Travis, or Mr. and Mrs. Swift or, maybe, The Kelces?

By Stewart Dobson

I’ve been struggling with how to address you two for several days now, which is why you’re probably wondering where my wedding gift is.

It’s late because I’ve been fooling around with how to pack it.

See, I was debating whether to add a note that said, “Marriage is a journey, so enjoy the trip.” Next to that I was going to put a little photo of my dog, Loki the Blunt Instrument, “Rowing his boat,” on the grass in the front yard, if you know what I mean. I thought it was pretty funny. But maybe not.

Anyway, I know you’re relieved to hear from me and are probably saying right now, “Ohhhhh, so that’s what happened with his gift. Whew!”

I also want to apologize for not making it to your wedding at Madison Square Garden last Friday. You’re may be wondering about that too.

The truth is I got hung up on picking out a wedding gift for you. It’s not like it used to be when friends in my age group got hitched. In those days, you just kept a supply of fondue pots in the garage for that purpose.

I think everyone I knew had at least two fondue pots, some of which probably passed

through several households before ending up in the garage full of loose nuts, bolts and small, unidentifiable hardware items. I tried to turn one of mine into a still by adding a curly tube to the lid, but the results were, shall we say, “uneven.”

But forgive me for going off on a fondue pot rant, when it may be that you’re fond of the several you’ve already received as gifts.

See, I knew others would take the old reliable fondue pot route as an easy solution in their search for a gift for a couple that has everything, so I went different way.

Although I did check the gift suggestions in your wedding registry, I couldn’t swing “Portugal” or even the more price conscious “Small Tropical Paradise.”

All I can say at this point then is I hope you enjoy your toaster. It’s a nice one and my other friends tell me they like theirs as well.

I’m happy to report that my financial worries are over. Just this week I received an email — a verifiable email according to the note itself — from Peter Nobile advising me that my student loan is almost paid off.

He says all I have to do is contact him at his office and he’ll send me the documents I need to extricate myself from a financial burden that has hampered my financial wellbeing.

I mean is Mr. Nobile a good guy or what? His ability to track down a 60-year-old obligation of this nature is impressive. I’m sure we’ll have a nice talk when we discuss my bank routing number so he can set things right.

Between the Lines

By Steve Green

When did the Fourth of July weekend become like a Senior Week? It’s something that’s new in Ocean City. It began during the pandemic summer of 2020 and lingered into 2021 but has now become a significant trend that deserves honest study. There are several parts to the Fourth of July situation.

First, there are the anecdotal observations shared by long-time residents and business owners. It’s meaningful when local people report feeling unsafe and unsettled on the Boardwalk watching the fireworks. Sure, this is the norm in June during Senior Week. It was this way when I was growing up in the early-90s. There were times the Boardwalk is not the place to be, but it’s not expected on Independence Day. It’s a significant change and due to daytrippers converging in huge volumes. It’s the overwhelming number of young folks that gives these concerns, and there are clear indications many are here to use foul language, fight, trespass, use cannabis and taunt strangers with weapons they are carrying. This is all witnessed, and the police reports confirm these sorts of incidents happened.

Due to the sheer volume of people and reports on the antics of young people, it’s incredible there was not a major crime incident. Credit goes to the Ocean City Police Department and allied agencies for maintaining the critical high presence needed to calm crowds. While there was no major incident like last year’s stampede on the Boardwalk, there’s reason for concern. All the relevant data numbers were up over last year except traffic citations and drug arrests. An argument could be made the holiday falling on a Saturday helped drive larger crowds but it’s also worth following the trend of escalating general arrests and weapons arrests over the holiday week from recent years.

We also have veteran business owners being blunt – the crowds are just off and it’s an influx of young people not the families typically seen in Ocean City on the holiday weekend. These sorts of large takeovers by young people occurred on the Boardwalk as well as on 120th Street. It’s a strange phenomenon that has become increasingly the norm in Ocean City. It’s something that will require more city interaction on social media posts and blunt, direct warnings.

The good news is business was strong. It was expected to be a heavy holiday weekend with the 4th falling on a Saturday and perfect beach weather in the forecast. It was depended on to be a banner holiday due to the Memorial Day weekend washout. What needs to be watched carefully now is how the next several weeks shape out, especially the crucial four week stretch of the last few weeks in July through the White Marlin Open. This is the peak season.

To their credit, city officials are not being overly rosy on the weekend. They want it made clear there were no major crime incidents, and that’s huge, but they also acknowledge there are some concerning dynamics. It’s okay for city officials’ comments to essentially put lipstick on the pig so long as that pig is being taken serious and strategies are being put in place to address it. The only non-option is to bury the head in the sand and ignore the realities. The perception change is real and it’s something to continuously track because tourism depends on it.

In a Facebook post, Mayor Rick Meehan touted the work of first responders and public safety personnel and thanked those who visited. He acknowledged the elephant in the room as well. The post read in part, “While the overwhelming majority of our visitors came to enjoy the holiday responsibly, there were periods throughout the weekend when large gatherings of young adults required additional attention from our public safety personnel. We understand the concerns these incidents create, and we want our residents, visitors, and property owners to know that we take them seriously. We continue to work closely with the Ocean City Police Department and our public safety partners to address these issues and strengthen our response. We offer our sincere apologies to anyone whose experience was impacted by the disruptive behavior of a small number of individuals, and we want to assure you that we remain committed to identifying solutions and taking the steps necessary to address these challenges.”

***

After all the votes were counted, the overall voter turnout in Worcester County for the 2026 primary election came to 28%, or 9,470 of the 33,718 registered voters. The county’s figure surpassed the state average turnout of 24%, but it fell below recent primaries. Below is a look at recent county turnout numbers:

2024 Presidential General: 73%

2024 Presidential Primary: 24%

2022 Gubernatorial General: 58%

2022 Gubernatorial Primary: 30%

2020 Presidential General: 79%

2020 Presidential Primary: 42%

2018 Gubernatorial General: 62%

2018 Gubernatorial Primary: 28%

2016 Presidential General: 75%

2016 Presidential Primary: 47%

Beach canopy education not working for OC

Editor,

I have heard the question posed whether the beach canopy rules will be enforced, or whether they will be just another toothless ordinance. This morning I got the answer.

As I look out on the beach from my tenth floor condo, I can see about 100 yards of beach between our building and the next. At 7:30 AM this morning, there were no fewer than 15 unattended canopies. Several obviously spanned more than 15 feet. Two were erected smack dab up against the other, abutting. All in the span of 100 yards. So much for “education.”

Since the council has publicly announced that no citations will be issued this entire year, the ordinance is as toothless as they come. Not sure why anyone expected more. We all know that since beach ordinances do not directly affect the town’s merchants, the council will pay lip service and expound empty promises.

Karl Dickel Ocean City

AI advertisements need to be reconsidered

Editor,

First, allow me to state that I love the paper. I appreciate the local reporting, and additionally, I appreciate that I can go to a local restaurant and get a paper that I hold in my hands and read while I have breakfast at my favorite local spot. (Please also note that I am 36, and this is a rarity for people my age, I've always been called an old soul!)

With that said, however, I've noticed a plague in the paper in the past

couple months, that with AI generated advertisements for businesses. I will not name names, but it's clear who is using AI generated images for their advertisements.

I understand, to provide a free paper in today's age, one widely circulated throughout the community such as yours, there is a reliance on the advertisers to provide the funding to support the local reporting and printing/distribution of a paper such as yours. But recently, I have noticed this becoming more and more of a problem.

AI advertisements are soulless. Choosing to use AI for your advertisements, instead of hiring an artist, spending the time on Canva, or other human talent to produce, sends a message that saving the cost and the time are valued more highly than creative advertisements.

I've found one of my favorite bar and restaurants from your paper, that I still frequent to this day. It was a catchy ad that made me want to try it, and I am happy I did. However, there are multiple businesses that I have not tried, that I do not plan to try, as this was my first experience, a computer generated advertisement.

Hiring someone through Fiver, or spending the 15 minutes to draw up an ad of your specials is not a major time expenditure. It makes me think, if you have decided to save money in this way, where else are you cutting costs?

AI art, as I'm sure the readers notice, looks the same. I urge your advertisers to break out of the sameness, and realize the impact of replacing advertisements with computer-generated images. I'm more likely to support businesses that are creative in catching my eye, not ones that catch my eyes for the wrong reasons. Tanner Pizza

Continued on Page 76

Immigration policies hurt local

Haitian communities

Editor,

In Wicomico County there are between 4,700 and 6,000 Haitian residents who are an important part of the local economy. They obey the law. They pay their taxes (between $15 million and $25 million annually). Donald Trump wants to kick them all out.

Salisbury businesses and local chambers strongly support the Haitian community as essential to the local workforce, particularly in the poultry industry. Organizations like the Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce actively collaborate with Haitian-led initiatives to promote economic growth on Delmarva.

Haitian immigrants have significantly lower incarceration and con-

viction rates than native-born U.S. citizens. Nationwide studies highlight that Haitians integrate well into local workforces, and strictly adhere to the rule of law.

Donald Trump will happily send all of them back to the hell from which they fled. Trump’s lackies have asked us to define the word “temporary,” without adding that the exclusion can be extended if conditions in the home country have not improved. If anything, conditions in Haiti have worsened, exponentially.

The National Chicken Council warns that “Labor is a constant challenge for the poultry processing industry.” One in five workers in local poultry operations is a Haitian immigrant. A significant portion of Haitian Americans work in healthcare— roughly 21% nationwide—so thousands of Haitians serve as nurses, nursing aides, and home health care-

givers across Maryland, especially on the Eastern Shore where Haitian immigrants are concentrated.

If you are in an assisted living facility or a memory care unit, or if one of your loved ones is, a Haitian is probably delivering their food, caring for their basic healthcare needs, brightening their day and helping them with daily challenges.

Residents generally grow deeply attached to their Haitian caregivers for their compassion and skills, and often consider them an extension of their own family.

The White House is ending access to jobs, and even life, in America for hardworking, taxpaying, law abiding Haitian immigrants. Congressman Harris has loyally backed every Trump immigration policy. When will he learn to put the welfare of businesses in his district ahead of partisan dogma?

Ronald Pilling Bishopville

Beach enforcement unit rarely seen

Editor,

I recently read Bethany Hooper's article on the "Beach division records additional violations."

Additionally, Steve Green's editorial on the same subject. With our taxpayer money invested in ten (10) ATVs and the additional personnel, I am surprised to see we are still not collecting fines to help offset the costs. I reside on the beach at 77th Street during the summer with a bird's eye view of the beach activity. Seldom do we see a "police ATV" trolling our area of 76th to 78th streets.

If they do pass through, it's rare to see one slow down looking or stopping for any reason. You would think that the enforcement units would pass thru several times a day. Not. Put me in the not impressed group so far.

David V. Powell Swedesboro, NJ

Have an opinion?

We invite you to share it, but all letters are subject to verification, so please include your name and phone number. All letters are subject to editing for space and to protect the author and this newspaper from legal action. Email letters to editor@ octodaydispatch.com. For questions, call 410-723-6397.

JUANITA BRIDDELL

Berlin

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Juanita Briddell, who departed this life on July 1, 2026. Juanita will be remembered for her kindness, humor, generosity and dedication, to her students of whom she was an educator in the Worcester and Wicomico Counties School Systems.

Services will be held at New Bethel UMC in Berlin on July 11 at 11 a.m.

NORMA K. DAVIES

West Ocean City

Norma Kenille Davies, 88, of West Ocean City, passed away peacefully at home on July 3, 2026.

with some former classmates for lunch once a month. They called themselves “Club 55.”

As a young woman, she excelled as a softball player, receiving accolades and awards for her play. She met Sam Holloway of Ocean City and they married in 1960, starting their family. Kenille was an avid bowler, bowling on the Wednesday Night Ladies league at Ocean Lanes for over 55 years. She was one of the oldest and longest tenured members of the league, stopping just a few years ago. Her love of animals led her along with a strong group of supporters to organize the Worcester County/Ocean City Humane Society in 1976. She dedicated her life to advocating for lost, homeless, neglected, and abused animals in our communities.

who found it hard to do. This allows them to keep their beloved pets at home and not have to surrender them to shelters or abandon them. Kenille’s Kupboard will continue to operate, continuing her mission.

Kenille is survived by her children – John Holloway (Kim), Alison Adkins (Hal), and Amy Holloway; her grandchildren – Brooks Holloway, Brennan Holloway (Madi), Tyler Adkins (Erin), Tanner Adkins (Liz), Bryton Adkins (Bekah), Hannah Brittingham (Billy), Ryan Gallagher,

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

and Jake Gallagher; her great grandchildren – Charlotte Adkins and J.W. Brittingham; her sister-in law –Marie Davies; her nephews – Scott Davies and Charles Davies; and her faithful cat – Jimmy. She was predeceased by her parents, her brother Rusty Davies, and her granddaughters Hayley and Kelsey Adkins. Cremation followed her passing. A visitation will be held at The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin on Monday July 13, 2026 from 4 to 6 p.m. A Cel-

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Barbequed ribs, plum dressing

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Kenille, as she was known, was born in the Bronx, New York on October 16, 1937. She was the daughter of Norma and Ken Davies. They lived briefly in Pennsylvania, where her parents were from, before moving to her beloved Dundalk, Maryland, where she grew up. She graduated from Dundalk High School in 1955 and continued to get together

She served as President of the Humane Society and Director of shelter operations for nearly 40 years. She was so proud of the fact that she established the shelter as a “no kill” facility. She had a strict policy regarding that, and it was one of the first of its kind in the area.

After having to give up that position, she and a group of supporters formed Kenille’s Kupboard, Pet Pantry and Rescue, located at Precious Paws Animal Hospital in West Ocean City. It was her vision to provide food, medicine, pet supplies, and fund veterinary care for pet owners

2. Add the remining ingredients, and mix thoroughly.

3. Simmer uncovered for 25 minutes or until thickened.

4. Remove the pot from the heat. Using a hand-held immersion blender, blend the sauce until smooth.

5. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Ribs

1 full rack of baby back ribs, cut in half chicken broth

1 large onion, quartered

5 cloves garlic, coarsely chopped 3 stalks celery, quartered

1. In a large Dutch oven, add enough chicken stock to cover the ribs.

2. Add the remaining ingredients, cover, and simmer until fork tender, approximately 90 minutes.

3. Cover ribs liberally with barbeque sauce. Place ribs on a hot heat grill and cook until a nice sear is achieved.

Secret Ingredient – Originality It is better to fail in originality than to succeed in imitation.

Herman Melville

Continued from Page 77

ebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Kenille’s Kupboard, Pet Pantry and Rescue, P.O. Box 598 Ocean City, Maryland 21843. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin.

RICHARD THOMAS TANNER

Berlin Lt. Col. Richard Thomas Tanner, United States Marine Corps (Retired), peacefully fell asleep in the Lord on July 4th, 2026. A devoted patriot, it is fitting that he passed on the 250th birthday of the United States, a nation that he served for more than a quarter century.

Richard was also a devoted servant of the Lord and a faithful parishioner at St. John Neumann Church in Berlin, Maryland. His unwavering Catholic faith was the cornerstone of his life, guiding his actions and inspiring him to live the Gospel through daily prayer, acts of service, and a deep love for his family. In 2012 he fulfilled a lifelong dream by making a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, where he prayed and worshiped at many of Christianity’s most sacred

sites. He prayed the Rosary frequently, especially while deployed on active duty with the United States Marine Corps. Most recently he served many years as a grandparent volunteer at St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Children’s Camp. This included educating the campers on United States flag etiquette.

Known to his many friends simply as “Dick,” he was born on September 16, 1940 in Omaha, Nebraska to Robert and Mary Tanner. He attended Creighton Preparatory School before graduating from Creighton University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. While in college he joined the ranks of Platoon Leaders Class. This led to his direct commission as a Second Lieutenant into the United States Marine Corps.

During a distinguished career spanning more than 25 years, Richard served with honor in combat, leadership, education, and strategic planning assignments around the world, earning the respect of Marines at every level of command. His first tours of duty took him to Vietnam where he led a heavy artillery battalion, and later served as an interrogator after completing the Vietnamese language course at the Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center. His other appointments included: 1st Force Service Regiment, Camp Pendleton, California Marine

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Aircraft Wing, Okinawa, Japan Instructor, United States Marine Corps Basic School, Quantico, Virginia Deputy Director, Amphibious Warfare School, Quantico, Virginia Executive Officer (twice), 2nd Battalion, 10th Marines Regiment, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. This included a 4-month NATO operation in Northern Europe. Joint Chiefs of Staff, The Pentagon, Arlington, Virginia Headquarters, USMC, Washington, D.C. While he was in the Marine Corps, Richard earned a Master of Science in Human Resource Management from Pepperdine University. He concluded his professional career as a legal administrator in Nashville, Tennessee.

Retirement did not end his commitment to serving others. In 2001 he joined the Marine Corps League, First State Detachment. He was elected by its members to serve as Department Commandant for Delaware. Among the projects closest to his heart was helping to build the Veterans Memorial in Ocean Pines, Maryland, a legacy that will continue to honor those who served.

Lt. Col. Tanner is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Diane Rogish Tanner. Their love story began while Diane was serving her country as a registered nurse in the United States Navy.

He is also survived by his daughters, Kathleen Waters of Glen Mills,

Pennsylvania, and Paula McGhee (Rich) of Salisbury, Maryland.

Dick’s favorite title was “Grandpa.” His five cherished grandchildren are Capt. Gabriella Uhazie, U.S. Army Reserve Medical Corps (Patrick) of Richmond, Virginia; Patrick Dunlap (Vivienne) of Charlotte, North Carolina; Angelina Colombo of Brooklyn, New York; Thomas Dunlap (Victoria) of Salisbury, Maryland; Magdalena Waters of Glen Mills, Pennsylvania. There are four adored great-grandchildren; Peter and James Uhazie of Richmond, Virginia; June Dunlap of Charlotte, North Carolina, and another great-granddaughter expected in December. His sister Nancy Rosenthal (Jim) of Omaha, Nebraska also survives Richard.

He was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Mary Tanner; his sister MiMi Tanner; his brother Robert Tanner Jr., and his dear sonin-law Travis Paul Waters.

The family is grateful for the loving kindness provided by the caring team of the John B. Parsons Assisted Living Community.

A funeral Mass will be held on Friday, July 10th at 10:00 AM at St. Francis de Sales Church located at 535 Riverside Dr., Salisbury, MD. Family and friends are welcome to gather for a viewing at 9:00 AM at the church. An additional viewing is scheduled for Thursday, July 9th

OBITUARIES

from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at BishopHastings Funeral Home located at 19 S. Main St., Selbyville, DE. Interment with full military honors will take place immediately after Mass at Eastern Shore Veterans Cemetery located at 6827 E. New Market Elwood Rd., Hurlock, MD. A mercy lunch for all will follow at the American Legion Dorchester Post 91 located at 98 Sunburst Highway, Cambridge, MD. The family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to Toys for Tots, a cause that Richard especially cared about and was a dedicated volunteer.

Memory Eternal. Semper Fidelis. Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com

JOHN E. JACOBS

Berlin

John Edward Jacobs III, age 82, passed away on July 6, 2026, in Berlin after a long battle with cancer. Born in Maryland, he was the son of Aldean Jacobs (Swift) and John Edward Jacobs Jr.

John was born at home in Baltimore, MD, graduating from Mergenthaler Vocational Technical High School (Mervo) in Baltimore, Maryland. John joined the United States Marine Corps right after graduating high school. He served during the Cuban Missile crisis. He served until he was honorably discharged in 1967. John spent his summers on the family farm in Marion, MD where he met and married Betty Jacobs (Howard). They moved to Baltimore, had one daughter, Jennifer Jacobs, where he then worked for BGE for 29 years. He retired early, and they moved to the Eastern Shore of Maryland. John worked for ESG, Walmart, Dolle’s Candyland, all before he started working for and retiring with Adkins Company in Berlin, Maryland. John enjoyed going on trips to Williamsburg Virginia, Walt Disney World and to the International Ballon Festival in Albuquerque New Mexico. John is survived by his daughter Jennifer Jacobs; sister Jacquline Knipple (Jacobs); his grandchildren – Taylor Jacobs and Annabelle Thomas; his niece- Kimberly Foote (Knipple); his nephews – Roger Jacobs Jr and James Knipple Sr.; and many grand nieces and nephews. John was preceded in death by his wife Betty Jacobs; his brothers Roger and Donald Jacobs, his parents Aldean Jacobs (Swift) and John Edward Jacobs Jr.

Visitation and funeral arrangements will be held at Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin, Maryland. On Sunday July 12, 2026, a visitation will be held at 11am, and funeral service will be held at 12pm. A procession to Garden of the Pines cemetery in Berlin, Maryland will take place at the con-

clusion of the service. Letters of condolence may be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home – Berlin.

JAMES EDWARD ADKINS

Berlin

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of James Edward Adkins, of Augusta, GA, who left this world on Tuesday June 16, 2026, just days shy of his 70th birthday. He was born on June 23, 1956, in Salisbury, MD to the late Howard and Virginia Adkins.

Jim attended Stephen Decatur High School and as a native of the Eastern Shore enjoyed fishing. Later he went to truck driving school and drove eighteen wheelers for various companies for over 20 years with his first wife (later divorced), Alicia Cota. He was a proud truck driver, a profession that allowed him to traverse the highways of America, forging connections and friendships along the way. After retiring, he lived in Georgia until his death.

Jim is survived by his brother, Richard "Dicky"Adkins (Bonnie), uncle, Edward "Chub" Massey; niece, Tracey Adkins; cousins, Ginger Hall, Pat Hudson and Diane Clark (Tom); ex-wife, Margo Adkins Gibbons. Margo Adkins Gibbons was with Jim during his last days at the hospital.

She is an incredible lady and Adkins family is very grateful for her help and kindness.

A graveside service will be held on Monday, July 13, 2026 at 10:30 AM at the Evergreen Cemetery, 10601 Assateague Road, Berlin, MD.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by a sister, Connie Littleton.

In lieu of flowers donations in his memory may be made to Coastal Hospice, P.O. Box 1733, Salisbury, MD 21802.

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com

ANNE M. COSSENTINO Berlin

Anne Marie Cossentino, known and loved by many as “Babe,” passed away on July 3, 2026, in Berlin, at the age of 89. Born in Baltimore on November 11, 1936, she was the daughter of the late Charles William Winterling and Marie Isabel (Buschelberger) Winterling.

Anne’s life was shaped by her devotion to family and her appreciation for life’s simple joys. She married her soulmate, Thomas A. Cossentino, on May 12, 1956, in their hometown of Baltimore. Together, they shared 62 wonderful years, raised three children, and built a family that became her greatest pride. Their marriage reflected lasting love,

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commitment, and companionship.

Later in life, Anne Marie and Tom moved to Ocean City, where she enjoyed boating, fishing, caring for her grandchildren, and working at the flower shop. She shared her generous heart, warmth, and light with everyone she met, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her contagious laugh and bright smile could fill any room. In her later years, she loved spending time with family, talking with friends, dog-sitting her grand dogs, and running the bingo table!

In addition to her parents, Anne was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Thomas A. Cossentino Sr.

Her life was enriched by her cherished children: Lisa Stevens and her husband Dan, Thomas A. Cossentino, Jr and his wife Jeanne, and Charles W. Cossentino and his wife Joyce. Anne's legacy continues through her seven grandchildren: Tony Diesel and his wife Robyn, Nicholas Diesel and his wife Alison, Charles Cossentino Jr, Christopher Cossentino and his wife Rebecca, Cody Cossentino and his wife Erica, Thomas Cossentino III, and John Cossentino. She was also blessed with four great-grandchildren, Noelle Diesel, Thomas Diesel, Josephine Diesel, and Logan Cossentino, whose laughter and innocence brought her immense happiness

A viewing will be held at The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin, Maryland on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, from 9 to 10 a.m. After the viewing, A Mass will be held at St. John Neumann Catholic Church beginning at 11 a.m. A procession to Coastal Community Cemetery will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to The Macky & Pam Stansell House Coastal Hospice in Ocean Pines. Letters of condolence may be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin.

Teams top leaderboards at Canyon Kick Off tournament

(July 10, 2026) Ocean City Marlin Club’s 44th Annual Canyon Kick Off Tournament was held last weekend with weigh-ins taking place at Fisherman’s Marina.

The following is a breakdown of the results:

Single largest

First place: Pay Dirt, big eye tuna, 145.8 pounds

Second place: Pay Dirt, big eye tuna, 139.2 pounds

Third place: Streaker, big eye tuna,

for

as the

123.6 pounds

Small boat-Winner take all

First place: PYY Fishing, tuna, 68.6 pounds

Stringer-Winner take all PYY Fishing, 192.2 pounds

Billfish

First place: Shotski, three whites and two blues, 600 points

Second place: Maverick, five whites, 500 points

Third place: Grande Pex, two whites, 200 points

the

Angler cashes in on season’s first marlin

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 10, 2026) Angler Lucas Pardo was honored at City Hall this week for reeling in the first white marlin of the season.

During Monday’s regular meeting, the Ocean City Council presented Lucas with a $5,000 check for the first white marlin catch-and-release of the 2026 season.

The catch took place aboard the Killin’ Time, captained by Dale Gurgo.

“Never would I have thought that my first white marlin would also be the first for Ocean City [for the season],” Pardo told the council this week. “That was pretty cool. It was a fun time and a cool fish to catch.”

This year’s first white marlin catchand-release occurred on the morning of June 16, while fishing for bluefin tuna at Washington Canyon. Pardo said the offshore fishing expedition took a turn when a white marlin ap-

peared.

“We were just trolling, when all of a sudden we saw a white marlin on the surface,” he explained. “We trolled over it, and it hit.”

Pardo said he wasn’t even aware that the city offered a $5,000 award for the first white marlin until after he had reeled one in.

“After I landed the fish, I was just excited that it was my first white marlin,” he said. “Then I found out that you also get $5,000 from the city. That’s pretty cool. A little bonus on top.”

Each year, the mayor and council offer a $5,000 prize to the angler that catches and releases the first official white marlin of the summer season. A few years back during budget deliberations, the city briefly considered eliminating the annual prize. But after outcry from the local fishing community, it was reinstated.

“This is one of those annual awards

that’s fun to go ahead and present,”

Mayor Rick Meehan said this week. “Each year, the Town of Ocean City does reward the angler that catches the first white marlin with a check of $5,000. The fishing industry, both the commercial and the recreational industries, play an important role in the city. The White Marlin Open is the largest billfish tournament in the world, and we’re the white marlin capital of the world.”

Last year, lady angler Hannah Melvin caught the first white marlin of the season on June 14, during the annual Tunas and Tiaras ladies fishing tournament. She was just one of two women to do so since records have been kept by the Ocean City Marlin Club.

Four years prior to that, the town recorded a white marlin catch and release on May 23, the earliest date ever recorded. The latest catch date ever recorded for a white marlin was July

20, 1936.

In addition to the city’s cash prize, the Ocean City Marlin Club also doles out $5,000 to the member who catches and releases the first marlin of the season. This year, the prize went to the crew of Boss Hogg, who caught the club’s first white marlin on June 21.

“The Ocean City Marlin Club would like to congratulate two of our boat members, Boss Hogg and Shorebilly, both of whom released white marlin this past Sunday,” the Marlin Club wrote in a Facebook post last month.

“Unfortunately, there can be only one winner of the $5,000 First White Marlin Award for a boat member. Based on the official release times, Boss Hogg earned the distinction and is this year's winner. Congratulations to the crew of Boss Hogg on claiming the prize, and congratulations to both teams on a successful day on the water.”